HEATHER COVINGTON'S BOOK CLUB
A DIVISION OF THE YOUNITY REVIEWERS BOOKCLUB WORLDWIDE
To request a review, submit query to Disilgold@aol.com
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| ARCHIVED 5 STAR BOOK REVIEWS BY HEATHER COVINGTON
After Hours: A Collection of Erotic Writing by Black Men
By Edited by Robert Fleming
Reviewed by Heather Covington
Rating: *****5 Stars!
"A clever book of erotica that is more than an after hour depiction of hard core lust and passion and men's twisted fantasies, but a cleverly well put together episode of short stories that challenge the reader to think, stop and read on as Black men tell the tales of love and romance in ways that have never been written before.
It’s like looking into the minds of how real black men think about love, sex and romance. The Black male psyche is finally exposed. Step inside and take a look. Over 19 Black men leave nothing to the imagination with this anthology of erotic tales topped with fine quality writing."
All About Me
By Natalie Darden
*****5 Stars!
"The relationship between Nicole and Junior had to come to a swift and immediate end. The bond the two shared poorly interfered with any and all progress Tamara had made with her son over the past few weeks. What will Nicole do with this situation? The decisions she makes may change her life? Chic drama at its best that captures reader's attention with fine detail and a chockful of intriguing dialogue, Natalie’s writing style is hip with modern flavor like a drama played out on the cinema screen you can't wait to spend your money on.
Almost Doesn't Count
by Electa Rome Parks
*****5 Stars!
Electa Rome Parks delightfully and gracefully enters the realm of "third repeat offenders" ready to take over the summer wave of fresh new literature with a stellar third novel release. Her crime, writing chart- topping best sellers one after the other.
Electa’s latest, Almost Doesn’t Count," with an easily eye- catching and memorable title reminiscent of song sensation, Brandy’s top similar entitled hit single on a prior album, provides a refreshing twist to chic-lit and blinged out ghetto and urban gangster books on the market that readers love too, but there is just something about ELECTA!
The author of books like hit selling titles, "The Ties That Bind" and "Loose Ends" returns with another hit. "Almost Doesn’t Count" by Electa Parks takes place in the heart of Georgia and focuses on a young lady named Mercedes whose come to visit her mama, Miss. Betty, post surgery, and decides to restore nuances with past fling, Redman, who is rather brash and insensitive, but makes Mercedes feel comfortable around her just like a good old piece of furniture.
I was reminded of the embracing moments of the movie, Inkwell, featuring Jada Pinkett. "Almost Doesn’t Count" is ON from page one. Along comes Darius who is ready to sweep her feet off the ground and cross boundaries Mercedes has never experienced.
She’s reluctant when it comes to experiencing new love. Underlying memories of a painful childhood come back to haunt Mercedes, plus heavily heated tension with Miss. Betty who is always putting her down. She copes by conversing with her closest friends on occasion who is experiencing some high-rolling drama in her own relationship.
The story moves like a delicious drink of peach wine seasoned with a delicate story plot that will have Georgians reminiscing over time spent there and those who happen to visit the town saying, " Electa has captured a vivid depiction of life in Georgia." Piggly Wiggly’s supermarket is definitely getting props as the place for sparkling drama in Atlanta.
Overall, Electa’s writing style is second to none, unique and fresh. I can see the makings of a sitcom right in the heart of the south. Already, Electa Rome Parks has been featured in Upscale Magazine. Her latest book is such a juicy and delectable read, best selling peer, Zane, issued an advance review. We're glad Zane agrees on this one. Almost Doesn't Count by Electa Parks is one for keeps.
Anonymity
by Margie Gosa Shivers
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
From the moment I read Anonymity by Marge Gosa Shivers I breathed a sigh of relief. My eyes were immediately taken on a roller coaster ride from start to finish as Cara Fleming is hastily chased by her husband like in a scene from the movie hit, Sleeping With The Enemy. Anonymity leaves the reader with a palpitating heart and anticipation for the worse builds to a climax.
Cara has just found out that her handsome husband, Mario, has received an anonymous message for some peculiar and deceitful reason accusing her of the unthinkable. Yes, an anonymous caller has revealed over a phone conservation that Cara, the perfect wife, is cheating on her husband.
Who would do such a thing, is it true, and what is the anonymous callers' motive are questions that ponder the reader during this fast paced drama that is another work that The Disilgold Network predicts will reach the screen and we can't wait.
Readers want to be able to chase through the most engaging plot ever to hit the literary market, but will find the need to slow down to not miss one exciting detail from this masterful storyteller's work. Anonymity will leave you breathless. If you're in a relationship, you'll question if your lover would attempt to kill you if he ever found out that you were cheating.
The very scene happened right here in The Bronx as a man chopped his wife into pieces with a sword for expressing her desire to leave him for another man. What is so intriguing is that Cara must fight to the finish to prove her innocence in a tale that becomes more dangerously and intricately interwoven in a puzzle that only Cara and the lucky reader of this book can find the answers to.
Anonymity is a perfect title for this 5 Star work. Only you can help Cara before it is too late so it seems. She actually thinks like the reader and the reader will become Cara, anticipating her next move to save herself.
You're in for a mesmerizing modern day thrill ride from Ms. Margie Gosa whose work will make your emotions literally "Shiver." Why she's no other than, Marge Gosa Shivers, a modern day suspense novelist on the Disilgold Hit List. Dive into a Marge Gosa Shivers book today. A star is born.
Anybody Seen Junebug?
By Delores Thornton
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
I read Delores Thornton's book before I ever knew who she was, and was amazed by the quality of character development. We immediately asked Delores to be our Disilgold Book of The Year judge, and she actually selected an author who has gone on to receive outstanding reviews. We always have said that, "Talent recognizes talent."
Anybody Seen Junebug? is by far one of the most intriguing books of our time that deals with issues too personal for me to discuss here, but has gone on to be among one of the favorites of YOUnity Reviewers Worldwide for content, real issues, and exposure to unfortunate situations that can happen to anyone, and at any time.
Never feel that you are alone if your suffer from dual personalities. This disease according to the book, comes from extreme loneliness, depression and traumatic life's situations that many normal people hide by occupying their life with goodness for others, or to escape the harshest of realities they've had to deal with, and perhaps will never tell until their dying day or until someone makes an effort to help these souls.
Junebug is a classic character who I wanted to embrace, nurture, support, and help. He is the sophomore sequel to BABE!, another prior book with equal weight. I felt empathy for Junebug. He is the underdog and pathetic soul that folks lock up in jail and throw away the key. He is Michael Jackson, glorified and knocked down and stripped to nothingness, and may go to jail for being different when innocent, but no one will take his side so it seems. (Update: Note this review was written before Michael Jackson's case.)
He can be your neighbor who helped you with groceries, the man who saved your child from drowning, the next president of the United States of America, your brother, and even your father. I have a lot of sympathy for folks in his predicament, and in reality, this can be a dangerous task to take on, but someone has to care.
Delores begins this journey by writing a powerful book that will bring better understanding to mental disease, and I believe that all who are well, should feel blessed, and fortunate to read this book, and perhaps help people undergoing circumstances like those experienced by Junebug. I have no idea how Delores Thornton created this character. He is totally original, quite frightening at times, mysterious, unpredictable, and the kind of character fit for a movie like The Green Mile.
This one is an unassuming winner that is powerfully overwhelmed by the glittery books on the market right now, but will forge through when people are ready to crave a real story of hope. I encourage true die hard book lovers to read the message inside, a message much more powerful than the cover. I truly recommend this book as the standard for quality literature and I am sure many YOUnity Reviewers will agree.
There is no time limit for this book to filter into every real home library. Anybody Seen Junebug? is a book of the ages, and I do not doubt that The New York Times Review will one day feature this book which is far too sophisticated to be a trend. This book is one for life long domain. I am very proud of Delores Thornton's work and believe that Junebug will become a celebrity very soon. I also, love the matching CD. Brilliant work!!!!!!!
Another Day At The Front
by Ishmael Reed
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
He graces BIBR Magazine with a solemn, and angelic look, but is literally at the forefront of exposing race wars, truth, contradictions, fallacies, and injustices that leave little room to ponder or question, and all while running a publishing press.
This is ironically, one sided propaganda at its best you’d think, and after reading the book, the reader will not question the latest domain on bookshelves filled with rich facts and research. It is a boring read for the unchallenged , non intellectual reader, but soulfully gratifying and innocuous for the prolific reader thirsty for knowledge like only Ishmael can deliver. I thirst for Ishmael’s work. He is a martyr.
You can count on the fact, that the non challenged reader will be forced to read it as a student in any university studying Black History or urban studies. This is the one! Poet's & Writers issues him an award in 2003. How much greater is great?
The questions formulated ask,"Are there Black racists within the community? Is your black neighbor your true neighbor during a crisis? Was W.E.B. DuBois a Nazi supporter in being blinded with overwhelming kindness from Germans upon his visitation to Germany, and which caused him to wonder if America was hiding the truth of race relations back then? Is this still the same question of modern day race relations that may cause war? Are Hispanic Blacks subdivided? Do Black Woman authors male bash? (Guilty: Read PerSOULnalities: Poems For Every Kind Of Man). Do some racist radio hosts get a slap on the wrist while Blacks accused of anti-semitism are literally castrated? Are The Turner Diaries fueling hate? I began to wonder about many of these issues, my own place in society, and having ounces of blood from white, black and Indian culture.
Who's side am I on having loved every dimension of my intricate mixed family, but having held on to my Cherokee Indian dominant traits of my ancestors, red like Georgian clay, while relatives, creamy white like butter. I am ordinarily a calm person who can dismiss any reaction of indifference toward my sensitive soul as sheer ignorance on behalf of the offender, but have never respected a disrespectful person by fueling my anger toward a comment, or gesture racially inclined to the point of reaction.
I am in awe of this man's work, and believe that his formula for writing it is a masterful one. No one’s book has spurred these kind of emotions and confessions. Thank you Mr. Reed.
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Babe
By Delores Thornton
Blurb by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
"Babe is a fictitious tale depicting a woman’s life as she regresses to childhood memories. Her journey is unlike any woman’s journey, yet the reader senses her plight and struggle to cope with her inward emotions. Step into Babe’’s shoes and see why this book is a must read! A touching and warm-hearted story that reflects a gifted writer of our time!
Behind The Cypress
By Yvette Stewart
Blurb by Heather Covington
****5 Stars
"Sisters, JeanMarie and Sharmaine Martin are sent to live with their Aunt Pearl after the death of their mother in New Orleans, but the woman, much crazier than a Mommy Dearest, make the girls flee for their lives to only have to return twenty years later because of a terrifying and haunting memories of a past that leave them no choice. I simply could not put this book down."
Be My Sorority Sister Under Pressure
by Dorrie Williams Wheeler
Reviewed by Heather Covington
****5 Stars!
Dorrie Williams-Wheeler’s "Be My Sorority Sister Under Pressure," boldly takes on the story of Eva Perkins, who goes through great length to become a sorority sister while pledging on line for the fictitious Beta Gamma Psi sorority on a journey that results with one of the most powerful and gripping novels to date that successfully infiltrates how peer pressure to belong and gain acceptance among a Greek Organization dangerously lures college students to risk their lives and even break the law to become a member. Eva’s life spins out of control as a very unfortunate incident lands Eva in front of authorities facing questions about the death of another pledging member. The question of sisterhood and loyalty unfold as all members and those on line get caught under fire to reveal the truth. Readers will be surprised by the outcome, and left pondering if whether or not one would risk everything to indeed become a member of a Greek Organization. The book flows with intriguing characters like Ursula, Carmen, Tazmyn, Connie, Janette, Ashley, and Cassidy who are unforgettable.
Dorrie Williams- Wheeler’s self designed book cover leads to mystique as it is clear and evident that one of the arms of the character on the cover is disfigured. There are many disturbing revelations in Be My Sorority Sister Under Pressure, and by no means is Dorrie lightly unveiling or mocking the truths of hazing crimes hidden under the surface of bogus Greek Organizations who defy the true meaning of those committed to helping communities, promoting social change and that can never be tainted by the actions of a few hazing crimes.
Thanks to responsible authors like Dorrie bringing these issues to the forefront, perhaps those entering college should read a book like Be My Sorority Sister Under Pressure to understand that hazing is a crime, and no amount of pressure is worth risking one’s life and disgracing the foundation that Greek organizations have been built on.
I highly recommend this book for its aesthetic value, overall high interest and well written format that make Dorrie a favorite among many readers. Sparkle Doll Productions is on the rise. Look out for this author.
Birth Of A Criminal
By Asanti Kahari
Reviewed by Heather Covington
****5 Stars!
"Asante Kahari delivers a powerful autobiographical reincarnation of his life as a true gangster of the streets in Harlem, with a crime ridden past that is thankfully all behind him. What is amazing is his determination to turn his life around as a writer. The book reads like an actual memoir from a true gangster and thus editing is an issue, the book is authentically synonymous with Asante’s beginning steps as writer who sought to write a novel to change his life. This book is a gut wrenching depiction of a hard core life, and even readers are left with hope for Asante to stay on track. One of the most captivating memoirs to date!"
Black Genius: African American Solutions To African American Problems
Edited by Walter Mosley and Others
Reviewed by Heather Covington
****5 Stars!
Why are we intrigued by all of Spike Lee's Movies no matter how bad or good, or Easy Rawlin's character in Walter Mosley's Devil In A Blue Dress? Is it the casting of characters, the mystery of the black experience during a different era or the marvel of these geniuses who seem more talented then life itself at times.
They are the folks who encourage others to hold on to life, catch a dream, and believe that success doesn't have to be a thought but a realization. This book contains the very folks who may or may not seem like geniuses to everyone, but just the mere power of their actions has transformed a generation through movies, literature, sports, fashion, journalism, and Humanitarianism.
I always sink into these anthology compilations because I am curious to find out the reasoning behind some of the great Black African Americans featured in anthologies like this. It may be true that to be a success is to know success, but for those who don't have that convenience...why not read about it?
Black Men Living Beyond Stereotypes
by George Edmond Smith, MD, MED
Reviewed by Heather Covington
Babe
By Delores Thornton
Blurb by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
"Babe is a fictitious tale depicting a woman’’s life as she regresses to childhood memories. Her journey is unlike any woman’s journey, yet the reader senses her plight and struggle to cope with her inward emotions. Step into Babe’’s shoes and see why this book is a must read! A touching and warm-hearted story that reflects a gifted writer of our time!
Behind The Cypress
By Yvette Stewart
Blurb by Heather Covington
****5 Stars
"Sisters, JeanMarie and Sharmaine Martin are sent to live with their Aunt Pearl after the death of their mother in New Orleans, but the woman, much crazier than a Mommy Dearest, make the girls flee for their lives to only have to return twenty years later because of a terrifying and haunting memories of a past that leave them no choice. I simply could not put this book down."
Black Men Living Beyond Stereotypes
by George Edmond Smith, MD, MED
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
Black souls have forever trudged the weariness of dysfunctions of society, but none are more prevalent than the stereotypes that black men have to work, live, and sometimes die by so it seems. This book makes a perfect example of already justified stereotypes that would be better off not being reinforced, but to tell you the truth, I'd rather see it in writing than suspect it from someone's mind.
Hopefully, this powerful and dynamic presentation will cause a few who may not know if they harboring stereotypical views of any race to take a closer look at one's own ideals and revelations. We all seem to have our own stereotypes personally nestled, and they come out like a big, "OOPS!" However, I have learned to not hold these individuals accountable for their actions because just like Lauren Hill's song, "They know not what they do!" (Where is Lauren Hill?)
They can be any nationality, and sometimes our very own. I do believe that it is the receiver's discretion to educate and combat stereotypes or one's despise of others over a stereotype. If no action is taken, then the receiver is just as guilty as the giver of the stereotype in my opinion. Nevertheless, this was an entertaining read and worthy of reading. It provoked some deep self analyzation of my own stereotypes of The Black Man...For example; Many think they are so darn good looking.
Title: Black Moon
Author: Haaji
*****5 Stars!
Black Moon by Haaji is not your ordinary urban tale. This one is a thriller. You'll never walk the city streets alone after reading this electrifying hair raising horror that readers will take note of from the first page.
Haaji's writing style sends chills that bite and grab at your throat while attempting to choke the life from your soul. There is a sense of danger lurking within each page turning blueprint of a book destined to be scripted for a movie. Haaji may have found the formula to change urban drama books into horror in 2005.
Mystery and horror make a winning combination as the native Philadelphian masters the art of creating one of the most viciously raw, and dehumanizing creatures to walk the grounds of Philadelphia among mankind.
He takes the reader on a journey through scenic routes of the city with familiar precision. In reminiscing classic monsters from your favorite movies, the creature's actions are more gory than the Body Snatchers, more vicious than the ravaged creatures of Aliens, more calculating than Predator and categorically more annoying than the Werewolf of London.
The notion of a strange and unearthly beast with humanoid qualities is also, eerily reminiscent of the evils and destructions of the world in general with a vehement plan of revenge, hunger and need to transfer pain and suffering to humans.
The fast action paced drama revolves around Vernell Cheeks, a police officer on a mission to find the traces of this murderous creature lurking beyond the moonlight. There are intelligent biblical and mythological undertones that are justifiable for this creatures presence on earth, and plot to kill mankind.
If you remember your studies of mythology, for those who looked at Medusa, they turned to stone, but in this instance, this creature's allure is strangely real, lethal and unassuming. Awaiting it's appearance until the very end will remind you of the success of the movie Star Gate. Evil is beautiful in Black Moon, and the reader must find out if mankind will falls prey to its own fetishes least he destroys himself.
Black Moon is one of the most exciting thrillers to hit the thriller urban market. Haaji will definitely make his mark as an extraordinary modern day thriller writer of our time. I highly recommend this work.
Blue Lights In The Basement
By Juliet Sanford
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
"Imagine this! You’re a seventeen year old black female living in the inner city, and having the time of your life during a period of social change. As the weekend approaches, the "blue lights in the basement" party is going to be funky and the boy of your dreams will definitely be there." Hot! Fun! Just right for rainy Saturday night evenings."
Brothers and Others
Compiled by Yayoi Lena Winfrey
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
"Brothers and Others is a collection of essays, poetry and short stories written by Black women from around the globe about Black men in their roles as grandfathers, fathers, uncles, nephews, husbands, sons, friends, neighbors, celebrities, lovers, brothers and others. Shocking and down to earth poetry from woman poets who hold nothing back!"
Buppies, B-Boys, Baps & Boho's
Notes on Post Soul Black Culture by Nelson George
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
"This is the one folks!.Go out and buy it, and put it in your library just for the rich facts that will chronicle Black History from entertainment, social reform movements, and historical events to movies, power shaker business debuts and rich facts about literary artists. B.B.B.B chronicles your life, and where you were when events happened with precision. From the first chapter, Nelson defines the social levels of Black Men, and even breaks down the classic B-Boy into the subcategories like player, thug, and Gangsta. Truth! I am ready to close the book by then but Nelson captures my attention upon paying tribute to The Bronx as the origin of Black Hip Hop Culture, and his ability to identify with my generation by correlating the Bap to the men we remember all to well from the movie Waiting To Exhale. I love this infusion of facts, and details that also include the modern day reader, a book's true audience. It is fortunate that the book changes focuses to chronicle one of the most resourceful time lines I have witnessed to date. After all, I am dependent on Lerone Bennett, Jr’s, Before The Mayflower as the bible of Black American History.
I am forever grateful to Nelson, who even brings back memories of all the modern day readers who caught a glimpse of Sparkle, a Black movie starring Irene Cara, Philip Michael Thomas (still my boyfriend in my mind), and Dorian Harewood.
The book even validates my 10 yr. old fascination with Michael Jackson when his Off The Wall Album surfaced and I fell in love with Langston Hughes, poetry reading books by the dozen in a week. Okay, I was a literary groupie after poets, singers, and authors, but is "That my crime." That quote is for Philip Michael Thomas's famous line in Sparkle while held up by a song shark who threatens him to hand over the management rights to his babe, Irene Cara, and almost missed her debut on stage. Let’s continue.
This book, Buppies, B-Boys, Baps & Boho’s will not miss if I can help it. You simply don't know your living history without this book, and if you are an author, you had better chronicle your life in sync with this history guru, like how old you were when Marvin Gaye was shot by his own father, a time that changed the whole music industry and perceptions of real music. B.B.B.B. is on point and perSOULnally satisfying.
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Cane River
Lalita Tademy
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
There are books that take you back, and those that pull you in. Cane River invites the reader to sink in to a time where Louisiana harbored generations of families that experienced slavery up until the after effects of bondage from The Civil War to a first breath of freedom.
The women, Elisabeth, Suzette, Philomene and Emily are unforgettable as they marvel the trials and tribulations of daily life within their own generations which will provoke empathy, and anger at the same time. The reader senses an air of tolerance, humility and courage from all generations of women, but none is as heartbreaking as the realization that still today, people of color are still segregating themselves and the values of family sitting down for dinner are diminishing with folks working past dinner time to put food on the table.
Catharsis by Minnie Miller
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars
"Catharsis is a short, but beautifully well written compilation of 3 engaging and paranormal stories by Minnie Miller of which 2 stories depict the rebelllious nature of vampire-like slaves during the ante-bellum era and the final story, on love and redemption. Miller's gift of imagination heralds her as a crafty storyteller and author."
Changing Moods and Tides: Selected Writings To 2001
By Dale Benjamin Drakeford
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
"The goal of the text is to provide various writing genres. In this book, the reader can sample the bounty of the author’s interests from tiny poems and song, to family memoirs and a 100 page screen play." Brilliant! You’ll never read poetry the same way, and if you’ve never read poetry you will develop a fascination of Dale’s poetical art form."
CONDUCTOR'S NOTES
by R.H. Shaw
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
"Thought provoking! I was marveled over the fine craftsmanship and eloquent reflections of some very disturbing situations that occurred in R.H. Shaw's debut book, Conductor's Notes. He didn't go for the grotesque shock value. He simply stated the facts as most conductors of mass transit are trained to do. I found his style of writing fresh and alluring. I could not put this book down, especially after riding on the trains of New York City for many years to get to college in the heart of the city. Readers who have not traveled on New York city trains & subways will find this book very informative, and yes, the stories are true. There have been protests, crime, murders, severe accidents, and encounters people have experienced with the homeless, but this isn't apparent to all riders who ride the trains. There have also been some shocking revelations that leave you in awe and disbelief, but remember folks, anything can happen while riding the subways. I have witnessed passengers being dragged almost to death like a death ghost was playing a little fun, and suddenly the train stops just before reaching the end of the platform, miraculously sparing the life of another unfortunate soul. Then, there are those accidental dizzy spells by passengers on the platform who fall over the platform right before the train arrives or who may be pushed over. There is an empty clearing right under the platform that just won't allow the most skillful gymnast to pull themselves over in time before a train arrives. Also, you have the kids who ride on the train and play Russian Roulette with their lives or decide to walk the train tracks not realizing that the third rail will literally cook your goose. So, when I read R.H. Shaw's revelations and memoirs that are told with utmost precision and like a diary log, not too overwhelming, just inviting enough for a clever and engaging read, I knew I was holding a winner. I visited a few friends who work for the transit authority, had everyone read excerpts, and got a lot of support for this book. The line of inquiring minds want a copy of R.H. Shaw's book. I know this because I accidentally put it down and no one wants to tell who took my book copy. This means that there is a transit worker out of ten that I know who is a book thief. I am hiring a detective, and I'll once again find my treasured copy of Conductor's Notes by R.H. Shaw folks, but until then...know that I am on an all out investigation to recoup my book. It's like someone stole my baby, and R.H. Shaw is my baby, and a swell guy too. It's no wonder WBLS chose Mr. R.H. Shaw for an interview at Circle Of Sisters 4th Annual Event. He's just cool, and debonair with a book to match. Buy this book and see what you're missing out on. Happy train riding.
Counting Raindrops Through a Stained Glass Window
by Cherlyn Michael’s
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
Just when you thought only men were the frightened souls who ran away from the big, "I do!" not so in Counting Raindrops Through A Stained Glass Window, a definite big hit by Cherlyn Michaels that will have men second guessing on just how many raindrops they’ll have to count before the lady in their lives agree to marriage. This is an ironic twist of behavior among couples in modern day America so it seems, and Vanella Morris, the gorgeous lady from Cleveland, Ohio with the kind of life women would envy, may have started a new trend called The O-Theory.
Readers of Cherlyn’s intoxicating drama will have to decide if it is worth it for Vanella to marry the ever so fine Alton who is the ultimate wild boy and debonair charmer who most ladies would die for, and risk losing an already beautiful relationship. More drama unfolds as Vanella’s past heart throb flame tries to reenter the complicated picture, and now she has more tension than she can handle, but readers will love every twist and turn.
Cherlyn’s hit is a heart pumping fast read that keeps you engaged from start to finish with a writing style that is BREATH TAKING. Cherlyn is the neo- magnificent writer having women everywhere thinking, why alter a true-to-life fairytale that is going so well or fix what isn’t broken? Is this the new anthem. The tale takes a surprising spin that readers will talk about for days.
Call it fear or call it Vanella’s instinctive wit to be cautious. To step into Vanella’s spin- crazed high-heeled shoes and examine her family member’s relationships gone haywire is enough to have every woman in America think twice about marriage. For example, such as during one breathtaking scene that somehow evokes humor when her father Jesse, after a tumultuous argument with his wife, threatens to jump off a ledge after being accused of being a promiscuous and straying man.
Readers will not believe what happens. Decisions, and more decisions countdown to the very end of this exciting drama. The Glass Window is stained, but it will take a heart as big as Vanella’s to see through all of her fears she’s developed by vicarious living through her family’s experiences and darkest secrets, and to finally see through it all and make up her own mind.
I don’t think there is one woman who has not had to make this decision. I commend Cherlyn not only for a well done story, but know her latest will have staying power on bookstore shelves for many years. This author holds the writing formula with the right ingredients for success.
Cherlyn Michaels, is a fun, vivacious and energetic writer bringing heartwarming stories back to the literary arena. I highly recommend Counting Raindrops Through A Stained Glass Window.
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Dancer’s Paradise
by Terry B.
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
Dancer’s Paradise by Terry B. is an erotic thrill ride that crosses all boundaries of sexual identity among one of the main characters, and explores the human spirit in dealing with changes in one’s life never predicted. The book is right on time with current issues as it explores heavily forbidden situations that are as intense as those depicted in the movie She Hate Me by Spike Lee.
It’s a daring book and worthy of reading. Debrena struggles with trying to decide if she is in love with a man or woman which would leave any reader in a relationship regardless of sex wondering what they would do if their lover turned gay. It happens to women in relationships everyday so it seems with the unleashing of J.L. King’s debut hit, On The Down Low.
Dancer’s Paradise flips the coin as men are left to wonder what they would do if they had a lover who was gay. It’s a book even homophobic people can read because it is not just erotica. There is a real story plot interwoven into this well written and believable tale that deserves to be read by readers with an open mind. Clever, and original.
Death of A Fat Man
by Hank Anderson
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
Does anyone care about the struggles, trials and tribulations of Hank Sanders, a man battling obesity? You bet. Over 1 million men deal with the issue everyday. Death of A Fat Man by Hank Sanders is a compelling and heartwarming novel that uncovers the truth about living with obesity. which proposes imminent danger and risks of diabetes, arthritis, kidney failure and sudden death to the grief of loved ones. Hank Sanders book may have a humorous cover that is easy to fall in love with and share empathy, but the situations Senator Hank experiences are no laughing matter. He shares moments when he courageously lost 80 pounds. Readers are quickly reminded of the sudden hospitalization and stroke of R& B crooner, Luther Vandross whose weight yo-yoed in front of America while he was on tour creating concerns in the Black community and prediction that his health would fail him.
Hank’s worse enemy is himself, and this Fat Man alter ego he wants to psychologically destroy. What I liked about the book was Hank’s vivid portrayal of his food binges that allows the reader to see the internal workings of the stress to resist tempting foods regardless of the life threatening situations he faces.
Hanks’ book is a will of testament of the strength he endures through depression, and despite the love from his grand children and family just as he is. His quest for self love proves to be the biggest challenge, and the reader finally finds out if there is truly a Death of A Fat Man mentally, physically and socially. It is a brilliant journey that will make its way into the hearts of millions of people suffering with obesity and those who love them.
Devastated
By Cliff Chandler
Blurb by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
"The third book of Cliff Chandler’s series of books, Vengeance Is Mine, & The Paragons, is back with the truth about the most disturbing murder incident in The Bronx, that we now know was a twisted tale from the mastermind author." Devastated is a variation of the truth and much more interesting than modern fast paced dramas. The entire sequel should be a movie." Captivating!
Diary of a Mistress by Miasha
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
"A gifted storyteller with the ability to engage her readers with high-impact drama from beginning to end is born. Diary of a Mistress exposes the Monica's or friends every woman has, but may not know are aiding and abetting in a serious crime of adultery and infidelity. The message of the hit book of the year warns readers to be careful of whom they let into their lives as friends, least your fears can cause serious retaliation and ruin your life forever. Wait until you read pages 90-100. You're in for a shock! The diary entries must be read very carefully.
Dirtied Brown Leaves
By Kanko
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
"Kenneth "Kanko" Bowens delivers a powerful story about Baby, a young 9 year Black girl who overcomes the stigma of living in an impoverished household by settling her gifted mind and engaging in some serious study habits to escape her pain over missing her father. It doesn’t help that Baby is gifted and struggling to deal with a class of white peers. She engages in harmonious writing bouts of poetry that satisfy her need to identify and fulfill her emotional needs as an African American." A story with substance!"
Dive
by Lisa Tealsey
Reviewd by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
Dive by Lisa Tealsey is an expertly written tale that crosses the line of everyday novels and instead, triumphantly steps into the boundaries of Pulitzer Prize winning material. The tale begins with a realistic and vivid depiction of a Caucasian man named Ray Rose who killed a man in the past, but somehow was ironically willed ample property in Florida, and Ruby Falls, a black woman who witnesses a murder of her dog walker.
A twist of fate leads Ruby and Ray to meet one day. Their encounter turns into an affair as Ray tries to reconstruct his life, and Ruby becomes entangled in a personal battle to find herself. You would think the issue of their races and daunting past secrets would clash. You patiently wait for something to end this deep and passionate romance between Ruby and Ray.
Their relationship is so sexy and beguiling, the reader is immediately reminded of Kevin Costner and Whitney Houston’’s passionate connection in the movie, The Bodyguard. However, Ruby and Ray’’s love for one another crosses heavily forbidden zones like no other book on bi-racial romance . A sudden and daring twist creates one of the most dreadful and disturbing incidences to ever take place in a novel of this magnitude because it stings the human psyche and allows one of the characters to stumble into a situation you never saw coming on a ramp by a lake one day.
The reader is left to guesstimate for oneself if these two intricate characters will love each other the same after "the incident." The build up to the travesty is intoxicating and luring from beginning to end. The imagery, rich dialogue and situations make the author’s voice seem more seasoned than her youthful years. The time and care she gives to tell the tale is like a veteran pro.
Lisa Tealsey is a phenomenon who is already breaking grounds. There is a sci-fi haunting ocean of fear that embellishes the reader as each finely layered richness of imagery intertwines with interactions of other characters as well such as Kirk, Abbie, Graciela, Jeannie, Gary, Lulu and Casper.
Dive is a memorable tale that will make its way to the big screen. It is that good. In fact, it is the best book of the year, period.
Divine Appointment: A Care Giver’s Guide
by Delores Thornton
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
I have never cried through a whole book until I read Divine Appointment: A Caregiver’s Guide by Delores Thornton, a mentor and literary hero to many including myself. The cover is symbolic of life’s tender blessings and fruitful abundance despite the fact that everyone must pass away one day. Death is something many people fail to prepare for from one’s own death and providing for the family members one leaves behind to the passing away of loved ones and sometimes unexpectedly. It is frightening for readers to face this situation, but Delores Thornton is probably one of the fewest Black African American writers who addresses this issue with responsibility, resources and personal testimony.
Divine Appointment: A Caregiver’’s Guide is a must have guide for every home in America, and college curriculums. The guide helps one to prepare for what is up ahead and be responsible to handle a loved one’s death with class, and proceed on with one’s life and no matter how difficult. Delores’s guide helps those who know that they may lose a loved one very soon prepare for this transition in life with such care as Delores has provided, that one can face the inevitable circumstances of losing a loved one.
There is a Care Giver’s Daily Prayer Journal and Mrs. Thornton has unselfishly provided her own obituary as an example which was a tear jerker for those who love, respect and admire Mrs. Thornton in the literary community, plus what one must do to prepare a will, what to do step by step when a loved one dies, people to notify, spiritual scriptures for strength and memoirs of her life as a missionary since youth.
This work is to be commended, and is sure to reach a million homes who could use Delores’ motherly wit and advice. Divine Appointment: A Caregiver’s Guide is a treasure for the African American community.
Driving While Black: Highways, Shopping Malls, Taxi Cabs, Sidewalks: What To Do If You Are A Victim Of Racial Profiling
by Kenneth Meeks
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
First, I know some cops who don't see black, white or blue. They do their job in the name of their duty. If someone breaks the law, they uphold the law by reading those Miranda Rights. It seems so unfair, but if you've run a red light or are holding a cell phone when you know the law, you can't cry foul. Now, if the car next to you has a white passenger, and both you and the other driver runs a red light, but you get pulled over, that's racial profiling. These are just a few instances discussed in the book, and the sad reality is...people get shot or frisked everyday because they don't know what to do. Even cops are reading this handbook that Kenneth suggests should be in your glove compartment. Perhaps, it may save your life if there are some familiar reasoning techniques acted upon that have been mutually read by police officers and a victim of either racial profiling or a routine procedure. I am not here to debate! Just save your life and get informed. A must read.
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Faith, Love and Life: A Collection of Poems and Songs
by Stanley E. Alston
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
Have you ever read a man’s journey to a woman’s soul through a dynamic collection of poetry? Faith, Love and Life: A Collection of Poems and Songs is an aphrodisiac that will awaken the senses of all readers searching for beautifully written composed poetry from a rare infusion of talent from a writer and song writer.
Stanley E. Alston’s poetry surfaces with a breath of fresh air on the literary scene with sheer simplicity, intoxicating charismatic prose that has never been written with this kind of depth and beauty. His style is straight forward yet spiritually grounded like the lyrics of the late Marvin Gaye.
Stanley E. Alston’s poetry are like pick up lines you don’t mind hearing. Poems like "Will you stick by my side?" "When Can I Love You" and "Chocolate Girl" leave the reader wanting more. There’’s a sense of sincerity in Faith, Love and Life: A Collection of Poems and Songs. Stanley speaks with a modern voice that is on the cutting edge and filled with wisdom.
Feeling Poetic
by Rewa Marie Fyles
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
Gut wrenching and turbulent emotions from love to love lost, and dreams filled with admiration to feelings of desperation and sometimes hopelessness smoothly unleash the poetical talents of Rewa Marie Fyles, a hip poetical diva with a fresh poetic style that tells it like it from a women’s perspective and severe honesty. The book of poetry is undoubtedly hypnotic, personal and on time.
Rewa’s best poems are "What are You Scared of?" and "Be Patient." Her poetry speaks to the heart of a woman who experiences life for what it is and deals with the hands she is dealt at whatever consequence to find romance, self love and sometimes, a new look on life.
"Feeling Alone" is her most riveting poem to date and leaves an everlasting message for readers who can find friendship in a poem. Rewa Marie Fyles has entered the poetry arena with a subtle force that is charming, but most of all truthful. Her poetry will speak to your heart if you stop to listen.
Fighting For Your Life: The African America Criminal Survival Guide
told by John V. Elmore
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
There is something that rang a familiar air of discord as I glimpsed at the chained arms on the cover of Fighting For Your Life: The African America Criminal Survival Guide told by John V. Elmore, Esq. and Foreword by a friend of the literary community, Mr. Tony Rose.
I knew immediately that if I was not interested in fighting for my life, I would not open the book, and no matter how mysterious the picture on the cover with two fingerprints that look the same, but if you look carefully, do not match at all. My very own hands longed to free the cuffs of another black man whose time did not fit the crime, and by no means do I condone crime. I am speaking for my brother, father, sister, mother, grandparents and friends who lost love ones who wound up behind bars thanks to the unfair practices of the judicial system while their white counterparts got slaps on the wrists, but this is another story. Even my white friends will agree this is an injustice.
The truth is, as I read each page of one of the most "Think Before You Act" books ever written to help Black Americans stay safe in situations, or even avoid crime, the focus became clear that this book matches its title, and is indeed the first African American Justice Survival Guide ever to approach the answers to the questions Black African Americans have asked about avoiding the fatal flaws of the criminal justice system.
It leaves out subjective opinions or views that could cause even the most innocent man to wind up dead. It happens everyday, and rather than for folks to remain ignorant of the fact that like criminals the criminal justice system does not discriminate between which blacks should suffer the injustices in situations, Fighting For Your Life: The African America Criminal Survival Guide is a wake up call for everyone.
It doesn’t matter who you are, where you come from, what you are wearing, how much money you have, or how well you are adored by the community you live in. YOU too can be a victim of the criminal justice system, and not to take away anything from the hard working police officers who protect the community and sincerely care about the communities they protect and serve.
We are talking about a universal code of conduct that once this book becomes a part of university law study curriculums, criminal justice undergraduate classes, required by youth in detention centers and those subject to light time in prison, and. or as a gift to perhaps your young son or child, the world will begin to play it safe when it comes to doing the job of being a civilian or an officer of the law.
Fear breeds in those who serve the justice system due to unpredictable deaths and murders of peers in the force that cause underlying tension, and retaliation. Racism still runs amuck. Ignorance still breeds within our own communities when we respond to situations with pride. I say, read Fighting For Your Life: The African America Criminal Survival Guide to WAKE UP and understand that nothing is more important than saving your life, and even if it means you have to fight for it. You will discover Defense Attorney, John V. Elmore’s complete tour of the criminal justice system from the point where those who stand accused or violated can acquire a public defender or attorney for hire, the client’s rights and crime report to what to do if you are a victim of brutality, wrongly accused, or required to attend preliminary hearings.
Readers will also, be given pointers on attire in court, making bail, and if not...the grand jury process and some top lawyers who can be contacted and will help the accused fight for one’’s rights. It doesn’’t get any better than this.
On a lighter note, I have to discard all reviews of books about the criminal justice system after reading this book which really present the facts. I encourage all urban writers to read this book before attempting to write a single line about crime and outcomes in novels. If you need facts, this is a great tool for the urban writer as well. As a reviewer, Fighting For Your Life: The African -American Criminal Justice Survival Guide is certainly on the top of my list for fact checking and research. IT is a thorough and accurate guide that is intelligent, sensible, and can be the cure-all of calling a truce between the criminal justice system and those accused.
Yes, if you are guilty, there are penalties, but this book wants you to only do the time if it if fits the crime, and keep you living, because even the criminal has a family. This is about humanity and cutting down the abuse and brutality of youth who are the product of the environments in which they live. The story is not finished, and we still owe another book to the survivors. I would have liked to read more about Hurricane Carter, Alfred Houston, Angela Davis, and even Mr. Tony Rose.
This book will definitely welcome the trend of survivor stories. Def Jam’s Bruce George is dedicating an anthology to The Bandana Republic, and Neshee Publication is acquiring stories for Fight To The Finish Line. All of these books are in demand by our youth, young adults, local gang members, those serving time, those of the criminal justice who want to better understand their role as officers of the community, parents and people who care about the state of America on crime, and of course...address what we all need to know to survive. A new genre is born.
All praise goes our to John Elmore, Esq., a criminal defense attorney, former state trooper, father of four boys, teacher and attorney general. Fighting For Your Life: The African America Criminal Survival Guide told by John V. Elmore, Esq. and Foreword by a friend of the literary community, Mr. Tony Rose is the most responsible book on the planet.
Flip Side of The Game
by Tu-Shonda L. Whitaker
Reviewd by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
Welcome to Vera’s world in Flip Side of The Game by Tu-Shonda L. Whitaker. She was left in a plastic bag at a garbage dump, horribly resents her mother, Rowanda Wright who happens to be a crack head, and the emotional ball of fire effortlessly begins to jump from relationship to relationship as she remains true to her character as a women with low self esteem, but don’’t think she is not intelligent.
The Flip Side explores the depths and repercusions Vera must face as the price for playing the field like a man. She’s raw, uninhibited, daring and bold. Her character and language is very much reminiscent of some wayward girls from destitute or drug ridden backgrounds, but she quickly runs into the kind of danger that even her Aunt Cookie cannot stop.
She winds up falling for Taj, who challenges her to stop hating her mother. Then something happens that challenges Vera to make a life threatening situation to not only save her own internal emotions, but someone’s life. The urban tale touches upon forgiveness, and how love like Sade’s song, is indeed, Stronger than Pride.
Tu-Shonda L. Whitaker’s strong imagery of characters from the ghetto is stunning and authentic. There will be more great tales from this gifted writer who has a strong edge on the urban world right now.
For Every Black Eye: Revenge When Nothing Else Works
By C.F. Hawthorne
Blurb by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
"For Every Black Eye" will leave you through the valleys and shadows of abused women’s lives, to shouting to the mountain top of their victories as Febe forces abusers she’s encountered to live in the same torturous hell they have forced their victims to endure. "Riveting!
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by Kashamba Williams
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
I applaud Kashamba for the usage of true-to-life language of the streets and scenarios that make this story one of the top urban books on the market right now. Welcome to the world of Yatta, one of the lead characters. His mind is no different than yours and even if you are not from the ghetto. When you lose your sister or brother, there is just no telling what the realms of your mind will lead you to do upon avenging a senseless murder of a loved one. Grimey is as good as it gets. This book kept my attention throughout one reading.
I could not put this book down as I have had to do with some urban novels lately I mistakenly purchased in shrink wrap from street vendors and only had a book cover and back blurb to go by. Yikes! I will never make this mistake again. I must truly read reviews from now on. I am glad I took a chance upon hearing about this author's writing style. It's all true. Grimey is one of those books you will have to hold on to if you purchase it, and if you are lucky to meet this authoress on the rise, do get it autographed. Don't say I didn't tell you so. Kashamba is on her way to the very top. Watch this!!!! I believe this author will transcend genres, and readers have yet to see the span of writing talent from Kashamba that will easily lend to other works that hold equal or greater weight. Readers should not typecast this author as an urban author only.
The Queen of Urban Fiction should not be the only title affixed to this author. Her work is beyond this genre of writing already. We have a gifted fiction writer who has the kind of discipline and mastery to teach other urban writers how to hold down a perfect urban book, and keep the suspense of readers at bay until the last page. Her work is professionally edited, and has sort of a genius-like outline from start to finish. There is great potential in Kashamba's writing style that will lend to the mainstream market if her work is scripted for a screenplay. A memoir or epic novel will set this author apart from the current trends.
This is my prediction for this talented writer. I look forward to all of her works. Again, this one authoress to watch. After over 1000 reviews of my own, and someone who rarely posts on online bookstores, I felt it was incumbent of me upon my enjoyment of this book so much, to take the time to give credit where it is due. Brilliant work here!!!!
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Harlem Redux
By Persia Walker
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
"Four years have passes since the attorney David McKay left Harlem, and years of secrecy that end with the news that his sister Lillian has committed suicide. Burdened by his past, David dares to return home to seek the truth about Lillian’s death. He rediscovers what he left behind-a place of suffocating class structures, seductive patrons, and aristocratic leaders. From the wealthy salons of Renaissance Harlem to the crowded tenements of its poor, he uncovers old loves and festering hatreds, only to come to terms with his own crippling secret- one that could redeem his soul or DESTROY it! Find out what this secret is. You’re in for a shock!"
Harry's Homilies: Prescriptions For a Better Life
by Harry L.S. Knopf, M.D.
The mystic and beautiful scenery of the Missouri Botanical Gardens taken by the multi-talented author and opthamologist, Dr. Harry L.S. Knopf, powerfully and breathtakingly graces a soul-satisfying book with an upclose lens on the journey of a compassionate doctor who loves his job of over 25 years, and has written homilies to remind his real life patients, now including readers, that if all could see the world as doctors do, they would be able to adopt good-hearted remedies for everyday survival, self sustenance, and longevity in spirit, heart and mind as prescribed in Harry's Homilies: Prescriptions For A Better Life.
Doctors and Medical Students will adore Harry's book which it seems to address. However, aren't everyday people like doctors of the world? Readers get to take a sneak peek inside the mind of a Harvard Grad School doctor often misdiagnosed as the elite, but wait, this doctor cares about you. His message of love and peace with oneself is a blessing for all readers and the book is not only a perfect prescription for a better life, but would make a great gift.
The first edition of the book is published by Author House, but I could envision a big house publisher taking this book to the next level with a Harry Opthamologist Doll and carry- all briefcase version of the book to help medical students, doctors and readers cope with a few of his aphormisms made available by back-push in audio dial, and of course a finale," This is Dr. Harry, you've just prescribed to a better way of life!" FAO Schwartz Toy Store in New York would never have to worry about closing.
It takes a caring one to treat another with patience and understanding when experiencing signs of aging, regret, and failing health problems. A perfect example is when record and box office sales decrease when celebrities age. Dr. Harry L.S. Knoph redefines accepting oneself and having pride and common sense along with his remedies such as his realistic version of, "A Recipe For Happiness."
The dynamic, naturalistic and self therapeutic book of aphorisms is fun, witty, clever and humorous; just a few descriptions of Harry's ideal prescriptions on hectic real life scenarios that will leave readers craving for more.
Harry has begun a new trend in self- help literary homilies that may be more powerful than essays in Chicken Soup For The Soul, and Dianetics for those too busy to acknowledge other people's lessons and theories which allows readers to acknowledge that life is about enjoying it to the fullest despite the everyday hustle and bustle.
After reading Harry's refreshing and simplistic book, I found myself escaping into my own scenic background getaways at The Botanical Gardens here in New York, and taking along one of the best reads of the year.
I would recommend Harry's Homilies: Prescriptions For A Better Life as the perfect prescription for busy folks. I just adore this soul, and if he already has a wide angle lens on a better prescription for life, you can bet this is a book for all to focus on. Brilliant, smart, and necessary. As in the words of the author, " Knowledge and Experience are the parents of wisdom!"
by Lori Bryant Woolridge
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
The cover hints at an obvious conflicting bi-racial triangle between a Caucasian Man and young Black attractive woman with a hint of an obvious very distraught Caucasian wife or is it an adulterous relationship?
Not only does the cover grab the attention of the reader, but the title alone, "Hitts & Mrs." Is inventively spelled as the main character’’s name, Melanie Hitts with two T’s, and Mrs. as in a married woman instead of the words, hit and misses. This is clever and original, not to say the least that, the Black woman is non- stereo typically presented and has on classy business attire.
Overall, the structure of book is comfortable to hold which is important, has a modern and tangible, with the classic aged look and feel unlike books printed on bright white paper which avid reader find uncomfortable to read, and especially if a book is 364 pages long as Hitts & Mrs.
However, the length of the books does not take away from a well plotted storyline about Melanie Hitts, who is of African American descent who risks a compatible relationship with Will Freedman, a black man who loves her too death, and who willfully falls prey to the advances of a John Carlson, 50, the Caucasian husband of a Caucasian woman who cannot have kids, and does not want to move to New York with the insistence of Johns’’ desire to upgrade his career-oriented goals of developing a designing business.
On top of this conflict, John’’s wife takes in Amanda Stephens, a troubled white teenager, into her home which supposedly leads John Carlson, her husband, to feast his eyes on Melanie Hitts.
The problem is, Melanie’’s former beau who she broke up with in public, and embarrassed in front of her friends will not give up on getting her back into his life, and has no clue of her supposed relationship with John Carlson. The question still presses, "What is he definition of a relationship?" John Carlson and Melanie are introduced to one another during a power meeting that ensues between her and John Carlson, and upon her immediate boss, BenAlex getting into an accident. Melanie is left to handle the meeting, and falls for the white married husband of Sharon Carlson, a woman who cannot have kids, and in her forties.
Even despite her so-called best friends attempts to spy on her, and get her back together with Will Freedman, her former beau, Melanie has made up her mind that marriage is out of the question as she strives to build her career.
As a result with her supposed relationship which readers begin to find out is one of those email and fax nuances which winds up disguising Melanie as someone named JAX, now John Carlson is on a rocky road with his own wife. Melanie Hitts continues to deny her feelings for Will Freedman, and thinks she has plenty of time to make her own decision.
The tension builds over whether or not Melanie, affectionately referred to Melo by her friends like Candace will wake up and realize that her dilemma has nothing to do with love, but her own selfishness or possible selfless ways to never risk sacrificing her own needs to commit to a relationship and put a spouses needs above her own. More so, John makes a piercing decision one day unbeknownst to Melanie to stay with Sharon whom he realizes is everything to him, and even with his wife’’s nagging and aggressive demands.
Sharon who hid behind her husbands power moves and business decisions speaks up and demands that spend the holidays at the home they plan to leave and relocate to New York and even allow a complete stranger or teenager to spend the holidays with them after catching the youth shop lifting in retaliation to get her parents attention who planned to move overseas. The youth, Amanda, winds up having a child. The surprise comes later when Sharon decides she will adopt the young teenagers kid once born.
Melanie feels John’’s commitment to his wife, and begins to think more about Will each day who actually denied her advances upon their last meeting. The situation reminds readers of the movie Love & Basketball starring Sanaa Latham and Omar Epps as the man viciously rejects the woman after her rejecting him. This breaking point is the climax of the story. Tension brews. Melanie now wants Will back.
Her relationship with John Carlson is simmering back to business mode as in the beginning when she had to take on a powerhouse meeting in place of her former boss who had a car accident. Fearful, but confident, she had no idea that John Carlson would come along as an excuse for her to reject Will, the kind-hearted Do Right Man.
She is faced with the decision to compare John to Will. John believes in her designing abilities and appreciates her creativity, and Will is romantic and always full of surprises. She gets to chose, right? Wrong! She does it again to Will. She proposes wait time, and the notion of taking each day one step at a time instead of rushing into marriage. It seems as if Will obliges on the second go round and is happy to be back with Melanie who is suddenly sensing that John is falling back in love with his wife.
Things get heated at home with John. Sharon finds out that he is cheating on her by a fax addressed by Jax, a new form of evidence introduced in a book, and that the teenager is pregnant.
The line of the year on page 281, "Am I wrong for loving another human being just because she is a woman and I’’m a married man?" brings on a whole new meaning of the definition of not only a relationship, but LOVE. This line makes an unconsummated friendship the IT thing. The new kind of relationship women have to bear is MIND LOVE, but Sharon sees Johns faxes as cheating despite his explanations.
A twist in the story soon turns into John getting into an accident, hooked up to a ventilator, and IV tubes, after stroke and brain aneurysm . Even on his death bed, Sharon wants him to wake up and find out why he CHEATED on her, and face this or Melanie Hitts disguised as JAX.
Meanwhile, Candace, Melanie’s bitter friend also, in a love triangle is angered when she suspects Melanie has told her boyfriend Griff that she was with Frank, and upon him suddenly moving out of her home. She accuses Melanie and is enraged.. Melanie realizes that her relationship with Will who she now suddenly appreciates is in jeopardy if Candace decides to tell Will about John as payback or revenge.
Her thoughts are confirmed when Will sends an abrupt email stating, "I can’t marry someone I can’t trust" and just when Melanie has sort her feelings out. The old adage, What comes around goes around" hits hard. She has officially given up on old time buddy, Candace and John, but will fight to save her relationship with Will. She will not let William Gregory Freedman slip through her fingers.
Melanie’’s conscious bothers her as she wonders of John and Melanie really did have relationship. After all, even in a comatose state, but breathing on his own, the CAT Scan shows increased brain activity in John when Melanie visits the hospital earlier.
On the other hand, Gwen, best friend Sharon, tries to convince Melanie that John’s choice has nothing to do with her or her self worth, and that her racist feelings of imagining John holding a black woman’s hand let alone the embarrassment of people knowing os normal.
Furthermore, a bombshell is revealed . Kevin, Amanda’s boyfriend who Sharon wishes to adopt whether John likes it or not is African American. Sharon is able to accept this, and downplay her own biases. to help Amanda and as agreed by the teenager youth. They bare a child, Parker John Nelson, the name given to the bi-racial child only upon John regaining consciousness to choke up a better name. Catherine, Amanda’s mother who is called from Tokyo is angered by Amanda giving her child up for adoption, but it is revealed she is no kind of mother for leaving her teenager.
Melanie contacts Sharon via email and reports that she never had a physical relationship with John. Sharon is happier to hear this.Finally, Melanie catches up with Will and expresses her love for him, and asks, "What is so wrong with simply allowing herself to get close to a man who made her understand how to value and honor desires to create a life I want, a life that revolves around you?" John replies, " It should have been me who taught you that. I’’m supposed to be the one." Melanie finally replies, " what does it matter who does the teaching, as long as the lesson is learned?"
Melanie, at this moment, goes to the ladies room and returns to find Will who has purchased someone’’s orange lipstick and wrote a big YES on the plate in regard to accepting marriage finally.
Hitts or Mrs. is a well crafted, excellently written drama that draws the reader from beginning to end with the notion on whether or not, a thirty-something woman will follow her heart or destroy someone else’s heart. The author engages you and expertly paces a fine-crafted story fit for a movie screen. The characters remind of people we all know, and ourselves as Sharon is faced with letting go of her own racist thoughts upon realizing her soon to be adopted child is of black descent. Then there is Melanie, pulled into a creative and intricately spun web of a would- be email romance that literally jeopardizes her love for a man she was not ready for, but in facing her own insecurities, she realizes that she cannot deny love a third time around, for it may walk away this time and be a hit and miss. Lori- Bryant Woolridge is an excellent storyteller. Her story simmers with conflict, and the kind that requires readers to read this book from beginning to end.
Holding Out For A Hero
Deirdre Savoy
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
We all loved the' Body Guard' featuring Whitney Houston, and the subtle, unassuming template is set as Adam Wexler takes on the role of bodyguard on a film set to Samantha Hathaway, a Hollywood sex symbol.
In a whirl pool twist of passion and desire for the buxom starlet, Adam suspects that the women may be responsible for the real death of his brother, Billy, who was mysteriously killed in a crash, and leaving Samantha as the only survivor. Is Samantha the murderer, will love and lust between the two actors overshadow Adam's suspicion of Samantha or is there a real killer on the loose? This is one 'can't- put- it- down book' where secrecy leads to danger.
Home Buyer Helper by Dr. Taffy Wagner
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
"Home Buyer Helper by Dr. Taffy Wagner is the quintessential guide for serious buyers who will benefit from Dr. Wagner's advice and tips from how to shop for a home to maintaining one's expenses and gaining financial support. The trimline pocket guide is a perfect gift for new homeowners. Put this one in your holiday gift basket."
Homeless Love
by C.F. Hawthorne
Review by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
Nina Marie Moore, daughter of Judge Harold T. Moore is confronted with a heated argument with her own sister, Alexandra, over being late to work one day. As Alexandra's boss as well, Nina is distressed over discovering that someone is trying to sabotage her law practice and is illegally pinning telephone calls to her cellphone as well. It's a perfect scene that evokes captivating interest from the very first few pages of Homeless Love, a modern day romantic drama where everything you may guess would never happen, does occur with fateful situations shaping the destiny of Nina's life.
All forces clash when Nina discovers she is alone, unable to find romance or interest in past flames, and envious of her own sister's ability to find so many good men despite the fact that some are married with possibly envious wives who could harm her sister. As much as she is envious of her own sister, she continues with love and hate sisterly advice while beckoning her sex and attention craved sister to protect herself.
Further tension builds when her boss, father, and judge of Orange County requests that she fire her own sister who has been calling their sick mother on the job and slacking off. Circumstances revealed later on, explain why Nina's mother is ill. Reader's sense that her mother is disgruntled with The Judge. Secrets remain hidden. You'd think Nina would be delighted over her father's insistence of having her fire Alexandra, but Nina's mind side-tracks in her quest to find a man to love, and all her own. Desperation builds throughout this tense, but beautifully written tale where unsuspected situations unfold with the fine-tuning by C.F.Hawthorne, a writer who has a constructed a tale fit for the movie screen.
Her main character, Nina, becomes challenged by her own father to date an old white man out of necessity for future security. After all, he is rich, and Nina isn't getting any younger. A delightful twist reveals that a homeless man named Franklin who has been hiding from a secret tragedy in his past life has acquired a fascination for Nina whom he meets and greets at a party held at a bar in celebration of The Orange County Branch grand opening. Nina stares at the homeless man's white beard, and aged clothing. She is still lonely. Franklin is an alcoholic, but refined and intelligent. He stares passionately into Nina's eyes, and all senses bequeath her to the point where Franklin has not only caught her attention, but the homeless man with nothing more than a saxophone and duffelbag is on her mind.
How could it happen, a party chosen in a bar where the elements of vagrants and executives meet? Why did it happen, the saxophone performance of the homeless man in love with Nina?
How did it happen, the cold embarrassed stare by Nina in front of her friends as Franklin played his heart out, but was simply ignored? And-- after guilt, shame and overwhelming compassion for Franklin after careful thought by Nina, where did Franklin disappear to, the man under the beard that now, Nina could see his heart? Is it too late? Had authorities under her father's office summoned homeless people to leave Orange County for good? Is Franklin's dark past an issue or is there someone else who want's to see Franklin put away for life?
A very disturbing revelation will leave readers mouths agape upon finding out what happened to Franklin, who he really is, what did he actually do in this story that will amaze readers, and what is wanted for and by whom? Classic winks by the inebriated-like Franklin remind the reader that there is a twisted plot throughout C.F. Hawthorne's romance drama thriller where you can't miss not even one. Homeless Love is riveting, shocking, cleverly written and winner from beginning to end.
How To Make Black America Better: Leading African Americans Speak Out
by Tavis Smiley
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
"How many times have you heard your mama say, "Do it well or not at all?" There are variations of this common cliche. For example, in my highschool yearbook, I wrote.."Happiness is doing what you have to do anyway with a smile!" The same rule applies. I enjoyed Tavis's reasoning behind having a mission, such as think black first, 100% of the time, and looking past what others are doing and do your own thing. This is where my mind is lately. He also pays tribute to the most successful African Black Americans to date."
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Ida Mae
by Delores Thornton
Reviewed by Lena Williams
5 Stars!
"Delores Thornton has done a superb job writing Ida Mae and Ida Mae, The Saga Continues. In each book she grabs the readers attention at the beginning and holds it until the end. The novels are so descriptive that I could easily envision the garden with all the different flowers. I could see the layout of the Belcher Mansion and even feel the cold of the ice in Vermont. Thornton's books cover various issues such as race, racism, trans-racial adoption, domestic violence, single parenting and nursing home reform. Now in a combined edition, this is a must for your library collection!"
"If Walls Could Talk", "Postal Blues", "Black Rain"
by Vincent Alexandria
Reviewed by Heather Covington
5 Stars!
"If Walls Could Talk," "Postal Blues" and "Black Rain" comprise the trilogy series of groundbreaking Urban Crime, Murder Mystery & Drama Books taking the literary world by storm by Vincent Alexandria. Each book centers around murderous plots and scenarios taken on by Detective Joe Johnson who is your modern day Black Sherlock Holmes with a humorous vibe. The murder suspects in the first mystery, "If These Walls Could Talk," range from high ranking city council members, and even his own girlfriend sending the plot into a twisted triangle of deceit, and on-the-edge fast paced drama. The next sequel, "Postal Blues" gets more dangerous with a serial killer on the loose, and "Black Rain"takes Detective Joe Johnson on a thrill ride as his former love, FBI agent Cheryl Chase’’s life is suddenly endangered causing him to untangle a twisted ring of dirty cops. He seems to be the younger protege of Cliff Chandler, author of Devastated, The Paragons, and Vengeance Is Mine who made way on the radio circuit across the country, but make no mistake about it, Vincent has a fanciful style for laying down plot after plot that is all his own and on the cutting edge of must sought after murder and detective mysteries. Vincent Alexandria’’s time a Murder Mystery writer has arrived. These books are as dangerous a a murder mystery can get.
In My Sisters' Corner
By Jessica Tilles
Reviewed by Heather Covington
5 Stars!
"Bestselling author, Jessica Tilles, in her own fashion, provocatively takes you on a roller coaster ride you will never forget. Hold on tight as the twists and turns of drama, lust and betrayal that festers within the lives of Free, Jade, China and Maya Howard keep you glued to the edge of your seat in the new page_turner, In My Sisters' Corner. Experience the love that continues to tighten the unbreakable bond of the Howard sisters. You’ve never read a book like this!
Intimate Chaos
by Cheril N. Clarke
Reviewed by Heather Covington
5 Stars!
Intimate Chaos by Cheril N. Clarke is a compelling Urban Fiction Drama centered in the heart New York. Cheril candidly exposes the forbidden tale of two women's torrid love affair with each other and the degree they go through despite society, other women trying to prey into their relationship and even more so, heterosexual men that may be intrigued by them. Sadira meets Jessie on the train, and the act of getting her attention is so well written, it gives a classic romance movie scene where a man initially meets a woman, a run for its money. Ms. Clarke has a way with words, imagery and timing that beautifully blend together to create a love story.
Readers may not even realize this is a tale about a Gay/ Lesbian relationship about to go down, and boy, does it go down as ever. Cheril holds nothing back. Homophobic people will read this taboo book by industry standards with mouth agape, little snickers and plenty of "ooohs" and "aaaahs" if they are immature. Intimate Chaos has just as much and even more sustenance than some romance books on the market. There is strong and believable dialogue and smooth transitions among tumultuous situations that make this work seem ready for the big screen.
The literary industry may be ranting and raving over Da Vinci Code, Harry Potter and The News From Paraguay as Pulitzer Prize contenders, but have they read Intimate Chaos by Cheril N. Clarke? It's a book filled with everything from deceit, lies and idolatry. Some may say that a change of environment for this tale in perhaps London or Hawaii would lend to universal appeal, but just that it is in New York, gives a clear indication that urban America will be carefully watching this tale which is a considerably huge audience.
The characters are more than ordinary, but realistic and worthy of an Oscar. They do not hold back their feelings. I was sort of reminded of singer and crooner, R. Kelly's video for "Trapped in the Closet" that is the first musically sung hip hop and R& B soap opera, but you may have noticed is pending a completion of parts 6-10. Well, R. Kelly had better call Cheril N. Clarke, because the gifted story writer has responsibly uncovered a taboo topic that evokes emotions from readers whether leading an alternate lifestyle or not. There is real drama here that mature couples can relate to.
There are also, tear jerking scenes as one of the ladies fear the other is sleeping with someone else. While Cheril may be the first writer to successfully de-sensitive readers to the gay relationship issue since in modern day relationships every one knows someone who is, she brings a heightened awareness of sensitivity and maturity to the taboo issue at large. Everything that goes on in regular relationships surfaces in Intimate Chaos between these two women and the book remarkably captures your attention from beginning to end.
Now to see which superstar actresses are mature and open-minded enough to role play as either Sadira and Jessie. Don't forget Tricia. Trust, these will be the most difficult roles for an actress today to play, and especially during the heated sex scenes. All of the questions you ever wanted to know about same gender relationships is in THE BOOK.
The book leads on where J.L. King left off in his book, On the Down Low. That one shed light on the men, but this one sheds light on the women leading alternative lifestyles. Overall, there are signs that many writers have supported the authoress and whom she mentions as her inspiration. Cheril gets a heads up for her inclusion of her very own "Sexual Trilogy" three part poem within this masterful and easy to read tale. If only men today had this much sensuality expressed in the poem to their female mates as these women. Men and women will love the books. The fellows may even learn a few things by reading Intimate Chaos.
I would highly recommend Intimate Chaos for all kind of readers. The book has universal appeal and is most likely a contender for mainstream success. Embrace this author, let go of your insecurities in believing folks will think you are leading an alternative lifestyle and support the book. I interviewed the author, and not once did I even ask about her own sexual preferences. It is not important. The lady has written a well-crafted book, and everyone should read it.
In The Eyes of Truth
By Shelly Parris
Blurb by Heather Covington
5 Stars!
"Nina Montgomery, a street, savvy, young woman, will face the most difficult season of her life! A history of emotional and physical abuse plagues the former teen mother as she struggles in adulthood to come to terms with herself, and an unforgiving past. Zoe, her teenaged daughter, a silent witness in the midst of all this turmoil refuses to venture down the same chaotic path as her mother." Truthfully engaging!
Intimate Power of Liberty: The Sovereign Spirit of Indigenous Patriotism
By Grand Shikem Heru Sut El
Reviewed by Heather Covington
5 Stars!
"Grand Shikem Heru, who speaks fluent Lenabe, and upholds family values based on the Indigenous people's Declaration fully understands the origin of The Lenabe Samuurs as an avid researcher of the original inhabitants of America. It takes much knowledge, dedication and courage to dissect, trace and contest theories in public domain that have never been contested." A remarkable monument in literature."
I Wish I Had Waited
by Sylvia Willis Lett
5 Stars!
I Wish I Had Waited by Sylvia Willis Lett, is a powerful tale between three young friends who discover the dire consequences of young love at extreme costs. These ladies push all buttons, take giant risks, and are not your innocent girls next door. They are promiscuous and ready to court boys at all costs despite their young ages and inexperience. Rainey Michaels, Tamara Sims, and Alicia Perez are each faced with pain and fury while in relationships with boys who are every concerned parent’s worst nightmare. The situations are unsettling, and unpredictable just like relationship nuances.
Rainey wishes to keep her boyfriend happy and undergoes an abortion at his request, but never expects a problem that occurs in this engaging story that changes her life forever. Tamara is pressured by her boyfriend to have sex, but devastation occurs after she realizes that she is a victim of unprotected sex. Feelings of uncertainty arise over whether or not she has contracted AIDS.
Alicia Perez never thought the worse could happen to her upon dating a boyfriend, and she becomes a victim of rape to no fault of her own. Each situation is complicated, but their test of faith and bond of sisterhood will evidently decide each girl’s fate. The boys, Zeke, Rodney, Franco, Hector, and Nathan, are memorable, and will leave every young adult in awe because they could all be the guy next door up to no good and full of surprises. I highly recommend this book for all young adults and even grown folks who will find Sylvia’s book a rekindling reflection of past situations, and hopefully with happy endings.
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Job’ Is A Lady Too!
By Betty Spraggins
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars!
"Job’’ is A Lady Too is technically a scripted memoir that challenges the reader to decide if one can stand to lose everything from possessions to the finest jobs. What does the reader do if this happens, and can the reader withstand the course of time it will take to make meaning of one’s life and resurface as a whole being with inner spirit that once obtained is more powerful than any materialistic things one will ever imagine? Betty Spraggins reveals the core of her turmoil through painful experiences of a tortuous relationship and prayerful requests from God to save her soul.A gratifying journey!"
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Lessons Learned On My Way Home
By Gloria Lewis Vaughn
Blurb by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars
"An autobiography of Gloria Lewis Vaughn, Lessons Learned On My Way Home allows the reader to visit some of the rooms of Gloria’s life to experience through her story the joys of childhood once again. Like the symbolic Phoenix, she rises from the snare of addiction to the heights of redemption, while sharing universal lessons learned along the way."Breath-taking, and heartwarming!
Lessons Learned On My Way Home
by Gloria Lewis Vaughn
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars
It was a beautiful day on 12-16-54, the day Gloria Lewis Vaughn was born. Little inquisitive Gloria met God as she turned six, while looking up at the heavens to ask her new friend, " What's up there?" I knew immediately that I wanted to embrace, "Lessons Learned On My Way Home."The story and life of Gloria delves backwards in time to Ms. Harris' class. I am already reminded of my favorite story, "Friends" by renowned author, Rosa Guy, who I coincidently just met a little over a month ago. I just love classroom scenes. However, this was no ordinary school day as the scornful, wretched and tormenting Ms. Harris, instructs the students to return to school with a childhood hero.
Remember, when you had to select your favorite hero for a school essay? How did I know that Gloria would connect with a singer, Otis Redding by listening to the verses of "Dock of The Bay that play son Gloria's 45the pm record player a day before? Your are now entranced by this book. Memories awaken your senses as Gloria reminisces over the words,"sitting on the dock of the bay wastin' my time,"but time is not wasted as Gloria anticipates to be called on by Ms. Harris.
After all of that practicing for a presentation, the teacher overlooks her like so many Black youth who enter the school system of a few teachers without hearts who shun talent for never possessing any talent of their own. A classic "Teacher Dearest." I connect immediately he words of this skillful writer who has a story to tell.
Gloria blurts out, "Otis Redding was the king of soul."The cruel Ms. Harris interjects, "Elvis was king."I can sense Gloria's lips trembling with confusion and her first does of implied racism. She is hardly sensitive. The facts are evident. Gloria's feelings are real. The situation gets worse when Ms. Harris sheds her work to pieces. How could any teacher feel threatened by the ambition of a ten year old. We were all there once. Gloria takes the reader back to one's emotions and memories that may seem minute but marked Gloria during the hiatus her development.
Fortunately, Gloria is loved by her family, The Lewis's. They are the kind of family who you want to visit, and know. Gloria is her way to growing up, she is ready for life's challenges. So what went wrong and how did it all go wrong? What happened to Gloria. How did this beautiful aspiring child with such a lovely family become a drug addict, near death, and almost destroy her entire life? Her story is so painful, you will shed tears. What is so sad is, even Gloria, a successful recovered drug addict today, could not face the episodes that got her to that point, a classic denial phase of even most recovering drug addicts. The reader is immediately taken to detox stage of Gloria's bought with recovering from drug addiction.
Gloria does something even more miraculous and with disregard for the reader who wants to hear about the men who tricked her into thinking that drugs were her friend. Gloria takes us straight to her home with God. She shares her prayers and blessings. How did Gloria do it? The answer is clear. Read Gloria's Lessons Learned On The Way Home and discover why this book will have you strip down to your bare naked soul literally and have a talk with God. There is some real cleansing here and high schools or universities who want to keep young adults on the right track, should order in bulk quantities. Lessons Learned On My ay Home is one of the best self healing books of the year for those who want to be inspired spiritually. Ms. Vaughn is n her way to being one of the most renowned writers of the century. Captivating, and SOUL truthful.
Let My Children Hear Music
By Dwight O’ Carson
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars
"These poems are more like musical compositions, and what appears to be soft battered like constructions of some hard driving B_bop orchestration of others is due to the influence of Dwight being surrounded by musicians for the first 10 years of his writing life like Bob Lee. Dwight, a quadriplegic, considers his voice just another instrument within the context of the ensemble. Wonderful work from a gifted soul and remarkable man who is a role model to many! His matching CD reminds you of soul fused spoken word art with a touch of jazz. Refreshing!"
Let’s Get Financial Savvy
By Lois Center Shabazz
Blurb by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars
"Let's Get Financial Savvy" is like a built in course in itself and quite comforting to follow. The book reads like a novel. You forget that you are receiving some serious information that may turn your life around for the better, a first for a writer of a financial book. It's like Lois says, "True financial freedom is freedom from the worry of debt, disorganization and financial difficulties." This is the book of all books that will forever rid your worries about getting financially organized. A must read!"
Let’s Get Financial Savvy by Lois Center Shabazz
By Lois Center Shabazz
Review by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars
There it was, another referral from The YOUnity Reviewers Guild at www.Disilgold.com suggesting that I pick up a copy of "Let’s Get Financial Savvy" from Ms Financial Savvy. I roamed the web looking for Ms. Financial Savvy. Quite a big buzz circulated around cyberspace. Then finally, there was Dr. Lois Center- Shabazz at The Harlem Book Fair. I don’’t know why she appeared to be an angel, but when I got a hold of her book, I could understand why. I wasted no time roaming Ms. Financial Savvy.com and MsFy.com. My entrepreneurial spirit to gain the motivation to really get my personal finances so together that I could be a Ms. Financial Savvy too, was renewed. I took a deep breath as I read page by page of Let’s Get Financial Savvy: From Debt Free To Investing With Ease!
Dr. Lois Shabazz wasted no time letting her readers know that "Let’s Get Financial Savvy"would not only prepare readers for a more financially secure lifestyle, but a debt free portfolio that seems virtually impossible for today’’s woman, but Dr. Lois Shabazz makes all impossibilities possible and interactive as readers are urged to visit her site for guidance while reading this wonderfully informative book for today’s woman.
What I liked the most as soon as I began to read this top notch book, was a reflection on how Lois became Ms Financial Savvy.Readers need warming up to, or the message won’’t be received. Even as a fledgling CEO of an incorporated business, I knew that my weakness was buying gifts and spending lavishly on my business to improve customer relations, but Dr. Shabazz stresses that there is good and bad debt to some degree.
For example, paying off a school loan isn’t all bad, as in Lois’s case who simultaneously saved for a townhouse of her dreams. Next, this intelligent former dentist started a retirement account. Now that is a bold move. I felt reassured in following this step as a veteran teacher of elementary students, my greatest joy. I hoped the rewards would pay off later, unsure and doubtful, but if I had read Dr. Shabazz’s book, this decision would not have been so indecisive.
"Let’s Get Financial Savvy" is the kind of book that motivates even the most fickle saver to take action to better one’’s finances. Now what I am about to tell you is the twist of all twists that can turn any woman into a Ms. Financial Savvy by following Lois’s financially debt free "life" steps. I say this because even if readers are in a rut, this book will inspire you to "get your financial house in check."
First, Lois decided to get educated about investing. For many women this is a tremendous leap. "Let’’s Get Financial Savvy" is like a built in course in itself and quite comforting to follow. The book reads like a novel. You forget that you are receiving some serious information that may turn your life around for the better, a first for a writer of a financial book.
Next, Lois made gigantic sacrifices you will not believe, but it’’s called discipline. Lois could have easily continued to grow in debt or instead, do what she had to do to turn her life around. She’s a modern day martyr for those who may have given up. Wait, hope is on the way. You will be amazed with the results.
One of my friends who also, obtained a copy of Let’s Get Financial Savvy" informed me that some of her friends have this attitude that reflects living for today and not tomorrow because life isn’t promised. However, what happens if you live until 90? And- debt always haunts those who have it, and even robs happiness. It’s like Lois says, "True financial freedom is freedom from the worry of debt, disorganization and financial difficulties."
I believe Lois Center Shabazz is a spokesperson for all women who are on their way to financial freedom and independence. "Let’s Get Financial Savvy"makes this journey a pleasant one that women of today can relate to, and unlike impersonal, uninteresting and intimidating financial books that read like textbooks. Thanks, Ms. Financial Savvy. I am devising my plan, learning to budget more, analyzing my expenses, and on my way to helping my friends become debt free.
I am proud to be initiated into the Ms. Financial Savvy Book Club. This is definitely "A Club For Us," and I am ready to get Financial Savvy. I suggest this book as a gift for the holidays and every friend reader’’s may treasure. The world should know about this book. It’s financially fantastic.
Living Water
By Obery Hendricks
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars
"A relived depiction of the famous bible story of the woman at the well, Obery takes the reader back to her upbringing and struggle to exist as a woman with intelligence and pride, but scorned and outcast as a "Gibora Woman" who strikingly resembles strong and bubbly overly charismatic women of today. The rich detail exemplified of Samaritan life makes Obery Hendricks one of the most masterful writers of our time."Well written.
Love is a Splendorous Thing with Many Assumptions: Poems of Love & Mistakes
Author: Karen LigonWebsite: www.KarenLigonpoetry.com
Karen A. Ligon delivers an honest, beautiful and magnificent journey of heart-felt poems that speak to every woman, from facing love and one’s desires to love lost and love found. Love is a Splendorous Thing with Many Assumptions: Poems of Love & Mistakes is a pure and radiant debut collection of poetry by Ms. Ligon that holds the reader from beginning to end with captivating energy and abundant emotions all poetry lovers will enjoy.
Her strongest poems are "Lightning and Sunshine" where Ms. Ligon states, "Maybe, I should accept the calm, and acknowledge that the sunshine can be exciting too," and the poem "Sudden" which recapitulates the moment when two lovers meet is exudes vivid imagery word- for- word like, "Suddenly we are here with a whisper of a touch of kindness, a must!
An impetuous grin, willingness to seek, feel, and find fire, electricity, soul yearning passion with pure abandonment, journey ended, soul mate found, SUDDENLY!"
Ms. Ligon returns to nuances of innocence during youth and will grab the attention of even the most reluctant of readers. Love is a Splendorous Thing with Many Assumptions: Poems of Love & Mistakes is a powerful and breathtaking debut from a poet with a promising career. "YOUnity Guild Award Recipient of Best New Romance Poetry Book of the Year."
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Marriage and The Family
By Bertha M. Davis
*****5 Stars
"In all of the chaos and confusion of an ordinary day, someone with a heart full of lessons to share holds the magic formula for couples to survive and fall in love with being in love all over again. Never have I fancied reading a book on relationships with such joy as Bertha M. Davis, a masterful writer, shares over 40 years of experience on the "good and bad" of relationships. Through all of her own pitfalls and personal triumphs, she is able to encourage the reader to compromise and "literally" grow up. There is much to learn, and even for those in fledgling relationships, Bertha’s book, Marriage and Family, should be the anthem or perfect gift for a bridal shower or wedding.
Matters of The Heart
by Sabrina McAfee
Review by Marian E.
*****5 Stars
Matters of the Heart? Well for Nurse, Katilla Richardson, the only thing that mattered were her personal goals and ambitions, which lead her to weave a web of lies and deceit and ultimately she is its only captivate.
Throughout Katilla’s career as a Nurse at Heartland Memorial Hospital, she has longed to advance. Her dream is to become a physician’s assistant, but its easier said then done when one must stand before the review board and undergo a rigorous process, where only the strong survive and even then only a few are accepted. Katilla has a plan that involves, the extremely handsome, but cantankerous Dr. Kenneth Micheals whom has final say, as to who’s in and who’s out. Will this plan work or is it just another instance of the hunter being captured by the game?
In Matters of the Heart, the narrator’s voice reminds me of Southern neighbors trading gossip across the backyard fence. The story rolls right along at an engaging pace with subplots that are just as interesting as the main story line with characters larger than life. I found myself rooting for some, while wishing the worst for others.
Also in some scenes there is a level of nail biting intensity that you would only expect a seasoned writer to accomplish, Sabrina manages to pull it off, right in the very beginning when she calls a code blue that sends the reader spiraling head first into this unique romance.
Sabrina has also taken a lighthearted approach that had me laughing aloud on more than one occasion. To spin this lightly whimsical tale of love and loss, she uses wit, to not only entertain but also enlighten. Ms. McFee’s style is crisp and direct, the genre is sensual romance so be warned. I commend Ms. McFee’s efforts with the exception of what served as a minor deterrent for myself and that is her usage of adjectives, which seemed a bit cumbersome. Matters of the Heart, makes for a fine debut novel, I do suggest that you read this one for yourself.
Michael Jackson: The King of Pop
by Jel D. Lewis
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars
Jel D. Lewis (Jones) has done a superb job in chronicling the life of a child prodigy and mega-superstar in her latest well-mapped and beautifully designed anthology on the life of Michael Jackson: The King of Pop, and quite possibly one of the most well known Black living legends worldwide next to Nelson Mandela, Dr. Martin Luther King, Malcom X, Arthur Ashe, and Jesse Jackson. The book is the latest celebrity biography from Amber 2 of Amber Books, and offers a book every fan of Michael Jackson and those who ever wanted to know the mysteries about "The Music! The Man! The Legend!" a candid look that tells all and is a historical masterpiece for all ages who love and respect a true KING is born.
Readers will be amazed by the depth of mysteries exposed that many may not have known about Michael until reading Micheal Jackson: The King of Pop by Jel D. Lewis. The entire interview form television icons like Oprah Winfrey, Barbara Walters, Diane Sawyer, Steve Harvey and even TV Guide are revealed as well as the breadth of outstanding achievements of the singer, dancer and humanitarian that will motivate all to excel to one’’s own greatness.
Some of Michael's best songs are featured that baby boomers all grown up will love as well as his new fans. There are revelations about his marriage and kids exposed which heighten the sensitivity of Michael Jackson’’s need to have biological children and live on his legacy. The photos alone in Jackson: The King of Pop is a work to behold and just simply make for one of the most entertaining reads of the year.
Jel D. Lewis has created an embodiment of work that reminds us of Michael’’s fine talent, clever eye-grabbing style, fanciful dance moves, and journey onward as a top charting independent solo artist who kicked down doors with sheer talent, forging music from a Black entertainer onto international status level.
We are reminded that he started the dark shades craze, wore the glitter glove and Bobby socks, military style jackets, classic heightened pants, and bold colors to set himself apart from your ordinary entertainer. He dared to go where no other entertainer would go and added that "hee" to his vocals eluding growth and maturity. He had television watchers glued to his rendition of the ""Moonwalk as well as baby boomer entertainers who surfaced with his style.""His name will always be synonymous with the Motown Era, a time that seems can never be replaced as readers get the sense of by reading Michael Jackson: The King of Pop. After all, this is the man who causes fans to scream to the top of their lungs when he appears on stage and send chills and tears rushing from people's faces. He gravitates the kind of energy that demands people's focus and has mastered the art of true entertainment.
Remembering just how great Michael Jackson was and still is will not only give readers the big picture, but may invoke emotions and questions like how did this world let the media steal this man’’s greatness to near destruction? However, Jel D. Lewis accentuates on the positive image fans of Michael Jackson will always treasure. The writing is no longer on the wall. It is in a book. The only thing that can be proven here is that Michael Jackson is still the King of POP and legend who has spanned almost half a century. Amber 2 Books has another winning celebrity biography thanks to the fine work of this author. It's a book that one cannot put down from beginning to end. Like Oprah Winfrey has stated, " His life is nothing short of incredible," and may I add.... breathtaking.
Minion
By L.A. Banks
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars
If you haven’’t read Minion then you simply will miss the beginning of other highly anticipate sequels to come that are sure to turn this novel into a screen play or block buster. This book will lead readers into the mind of a vampire and some engaging characters that will have readers falling in love with mystery and science fiction tales all over again, and perhaps, since the craze over Anne Rice books. A star is born."
Mr. Right Now
When Dating Is Better Than Saying "I Do"
by Rachel Schaffer
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars
I commend the illustrator of this book for not throwing in a token black person to make the book seem politically correct to boost sales. Snap shots of a Caucasian women are featured along with three men with different personalities from your geek to hip, and business yuppie to bad boy with subtle variations in dress, accessories and props. The title alone will appeal to everyone. The format is clean, easy on the eyes and a breath of fresh air to read. Mr. Right Now reads like a reference guide with a memoir touch.
Nevertheless, the woman in all 4 photo snapshot appears to be the-happy-go-lucky author herself, who seems fine with not committing to any of these guys, but rather, indulging in the dating game. This book actually fine tunes the kind of men women are dating when looking for Mr. Right Now, but also, offers warnings and advice as experienced from the author’s own dating experiences.
Reader’s who enjoyed Rita Mc Laughlin’s "Every Friday Night" will enjoy grasping why women who haven’’t married have nothing to worry about and despite the pressure to tie the knot with anybody. Poems like "Marriage is a wondrous thing for imps and gimps and mitts. I knew a knock-kneed lady once who married a bowlegged klutz" may slow the married-to-be person down. In fact, according to Mr. Right Now, most single women do not know what they are looking for in a man. Rachel goes on to warn women of all of the reasons to wait in a humorous mode such as, if you break up, you are more likely to suffer a nervous breakdown, young marriages are not proven to be better, and a wedding does not actually mean that partners will be committed.
Furthermore, the issues of a woman knowing herself before jumping the broom, seeking education, not rushing to jump the broom, and realizing that too much achievement is intimidating to a man are more warnings as well as waiting for the perfect man. Women will appreciate reading Mr. Right Now which literally READS the kind of man a woman may have from Mr. Almost to Mr. Sex as if the author has been there, and every woman just needs to listen to the tell all book that may hold the ingredient for many women in relationships right now to bailout for good.
Additionally, meeting Mr. Dangerous is a wake up call that women can read about before finding out the lessons of love and romance can go sour. The best part of Mr. Right Now is when the author indulges in the man ever woman has had in The Legacy of Mr. First Boyfriend section of the book.
Many women seem to waste valuable years with Mr. First Boyfriend and feel cheated of meeting other men, so they stray to only return to The First Boyfriend who may be abusive for some reason or another in trying to hold on to a woman who he knows has not sown her own oats, so he wants to psychologically keep her from thinking she is worthy of another man’s love.
Rachel brings up some pertinent points that make Mr. Right Now an anthem for dating women who don’t need a shrink, but a book like Mr. Right Now in order to validate what dating woman knew all along. This book is full of surprises, and helps the dating woman overall to stop beating on herself and enjoy life to the fullest. Mr. Right Now holds equal staying power as well as the author’’s prior hit, "There Goes the Bride."
It’s a page turner and the kind of book to refer back to over and over again, share with friends, co-workers, family, relatives and hopefully all dates before saying, "I Do!"
Musings of A Mocha Sista: A Different Kind Of Mocha
By Pam Osbey
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars
"Welcome to the poetical world of love, self realizations, and spirituality. Come and join the mocha-style poetical revolution. The collection of literature will bring you to new levels of understanding your soul, mind, and heart that reads like a melodic symphony." Pam’s book is hotter than mocha and the YOUnity Reviewers agree!
My Husband's Girlfriend
by Cydney Rax
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars
"A sure bet surprise hit of the season rolls onto bookstore shelves November 2006, and will avalanche sales on the book buying market. The book questions infidelity in all relationships and is full of surprises, twists and turns as Ms. Rax masterfully aces chapter-after-chapter in this fast page turner. A JOB WELL DONE!-
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Nelson Mandela's Favorite African Folk tales
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars
If you are wiling to suspend disbelief and enjoy some of the most enchanting tales with intrinsic morals so grand, you'll be heart warmed..pick up this book for holiday Read -Alouds for the kids and your very own enjoyment. Who says adults can't enjoy a great children's anthology. Children's anthologies are some of my favorite readings at public libraries. I often read these tales to my children. I got hooked on reading African folk tales when I discovered the fantastical stories of Anansi. The culture of Black Africans is so rich and beautiful, that to not have this treasure is like denying yourself of the true culture of Black African Americans. Just read The Enchanting Song Of The Magical Bird...and you're hooked!
No Guarantees
By S. Easley
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars
"No Guarantees is about a young African_American male who tries to overcome everyday stresses and problems while attending college. One of his major problems is that he is in love with Shirl who happens to be one of his best friends, and has a steady boyfriend. Despite this fact, Horne has finally convinced her to go out on a "real" date with him." Soulfully satisfying to read!
No Guarantees
By S. Easley
Blurb by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars
"No Guarantees is about a young African_American male who tries to overcome everyday stresses and problems while attending college. One of his major problems is that he is in love with Shirl who happens to be one of his best friends, and has a steady boyfriend. Despite this fact, Horne has finally convinced her to go out on a "real" date with him." Soulfully satisfying to read!
No Less Moor Or Development of the Psychosocial Dilemma of America’s "Black" Underclass
by Delmon Crew
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars
Delmon Crew has arrived with a pamphlet entitled, No Less Moor Or Development of the Psychosocial Dilemma of America’s "Black" Underclass. He tackles the stereotypical stigma of today’’s Black Man as lazy, and delves deeper to explain the history, importation, and plight of the Black Moors. He sheds light on why Black men were publically humiliated and brutalized to create a natural tendency for women to never look at the Black man as a source of strength, His theoretical points, case in point are justified and backed by strong research and text references for validity. .No Less Moor Or Development of the Psychosocial Dilemma of America’’s "Black" Underclass is not a theoretical book with generalizations, but an essay that undermines the class struggles of Black Moors in modern day America as a product of an institution built on racism that will never change as long as the Black man is mentally lynched. There is room for debate on several issues, and it is obvious that Delmon Crew El is a role model for the African American Community holding nothing back with his well instructed and stimulating essays. His scholary voice is one to be heard and respected. There are traces of Malcolme X in Delmon Crew Et El, but his essays are carefully constructed to encourage intelligent debate and dialogue, a perfect antidote for peace.
Delmon Crew has arrived with a pamphlet entitled, No Less Moor Or Development of the Psychosocial Dilemma of America’s "Black" Underclass. He tackles the stereotypical stigma of today’’s Black Man as lazy, and delves deeper to explain the history, importation, and plight of
the Black Moors. He sheds light on why Black men were publically humiliated and brutalized to create a natural tendency for women to never look at the Black man as a source of strength, His theoretical points, case in point are justified and backed by strong research and text references for validity. .No Less Moor Or Development of the Psychosocial Dilemma of America’’s "Black" Underclass is not a theoretical book with generalizations, but an essay that undermines the class struggles of Black Moors in modern day America as a product of an institution built on racism that will never change as long as the Black man is mentally lynched. There is room for debate on several issues, and it is obvious that Delmon Crew El is a role model for the African American Community holding nothing back with his well instructed and stimulating essays. His scholary voice is one to be heard and respected. There are traces of Malcolm X in Delmon Crew Et El, but his essays are carefully constructed to encourage intelligent debate and dialogue, a perfect antidote for peace.
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Oceans of Love: To Us From Us
By Dee Freeman
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars
"Dee's poems can be of great benefit. Each masterpiece by Dee Freeman is touching, healing, awakening, and soothing for every soul. They encourage involvement and renewal. All can enjoy life’s journey, even though a risk, and tumultuous sea of ups and downs, it is a necessity. Outstanding!"
One Day's Peace: A Woman's Journey Through Time
by Tonya R. Bates
*****5 STARS
There is a new and dynamically gifted poet on the literary scene. Her name is Tanya R. Bates. Her publishing company is Black Pearl Enterprises, LLC. The book everyone is talking about is "One Day's Peace: A Woman's Journey Through Life. Tanya is featured on the cover which is beautifully designed, and lures readers into her world which exudes serenity, spiritualism and the beginnings of a poetess who is ready to conquer the poetical scene.
A native from Rockford, Illinois, member of The Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority and founder of The Be Blessed with Each Step Foundation, she shares her poetical journey indeed, one day at a time. There are Journaling pages included for today's woman to reflect on her own life, relationships, triumphs and self reflections.
The book makes a perfect gift for the holidays, and is so well constructed, many poets hiding their talents in the wings may be inspired to self-publish one's book of poetry thanks to this author's professional self designed packaging .
I am very impressed with this author's work and rate her book 5 stars! The poem every mother should have their teenage daughters read is no other than, SUCKER PUNCHED. It's poems like this that help our youth wake up and face reality.
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Poetry From the Bottom of My Heart"
by Vincent Alexandria
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars
A scintillating escapade of poetical rapture. Vincent Alexandria explores the deepest depths of the erotica zones in his latest, Poetry From The Bottom of My Heart while pulling, grabbing, drawing nearer and literally biting the reader with plush romantic imagery and a pictorial journey in black and white that portrays the Black woman and man with classic and sensual beauty page by page.
Each poetical melange purposely pinches at every nerve of the erogenous zones of the reader tempting and daring the reader to literally reach a climax of emotions from beginning to end. The masterful poetry of Vincent Alexandria is intoxicating and beautiful documentary of Black Love & Romance. Poems like " Saxophone Kisses," "Indecision", and "Desired," are sexy and voluminous with silhouettes of everyday situations. Vincent Alexandria’’s From The Bottom of My Heart is really at the top for representing the finest in today’’s poetry. An extraordinary collection of poetry.
Portia
by Denise Turney
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars Denise Turney, author of Love Has Many Faces & Spiral, delivers her most poignant, heartwarming and highly sought after novel by visitors of her site at www.Chistell.com with Portia.
"From a young lady coming of age to a career woman glimpsing her own mortality while confronting an uncertain future, Portia will tug on the reader’’s heart strings all along the way." A true masterpiece! Get out your tissues! Even the strongest souls will shed tears for this woman facing breast cancer." Denise catches your emotions!
Once you read Portia, you'll never take life for granted. It begins with a horrific case of abuse by Portia's boyfriend. Portia retains the strength to live life to the fullest, but receives the most shocking news of her life when she is diagnosed with breast cancer, a disease that can strike anyone from young to mature. What you'll find is the incredible zest for life, strength, perseverance, love and warm spirituality Portia holds on to for the sake of family & friends to her perceived dying moment, but you're in for a big surprise by the ending that is somewhat unsuspected, and it's not what you think. It is something far more endearing. Read it, weep for a change, laugh and prepare for a breathtaking experience. This novel is classically produced by one of the most captivating authors of our time.
Pressions’’: Memoirs of A Southern Cat
by Edith Holmes
Reviewed by Heather Covington
*****5 Stars
"Pressions is remarkably one of the most exciting novels of the millennium filled with deeply embedded mystery, and layers of beguiling and taboo secrets of a southern lady’’s past history and family background that captures an element of magic, and surrealism with breathtaking originality."
Discover the secret past of Catrina, also known as CAT, who somehow falls into a coma after a fateful incident, and tries to regain memories of her past with the help of Sylvia, a modern day Dreamweaver. No one knows who did this to CAT. Her past includes marrying Hughston, a dashing and intelligent man running for office as the governor of Georgia. It seems as if nothing can stop him until the day a profound secret entangles him with Annie Lou, a black maid. The secret is an eyebrow raiser and could evidently jeopardize Hughston’’s desire to keep his family’’s background a secret. However, deeper secrets about his wife Catarina, could destroy his life as she discovers that their son H.J, has a life threatening blood born disease. This double twisted plot of ‘‘pressions mysteriously reveals that H.J. can be treated with blood donations from Annie Lou. It becomes apparent that someone here is harboring an ancestral past that points the finger at Catrina, and now threatens Hughston’’s political future.
More discoveries unfold in ‘‘pressions as it is discovered that Annie Lou is also, a Dream weaver who can flashback to the past and reveal untold answers of past secrets. Readers will sense plenty of page turning tension, and ask thought provoking questions that reflect Annie Lou’’s disturbed toils with everyday racism in the American south. It is a tale that is sure to capture readers of all nationalities as white and black people must intertwine by necessity for America to keep its fabric of peace together in this drama.
Now the "R" in racism has hit home at full force. It seems as if there is nowhere for Catrina to run or hide as the upcoming possibility of her reign as First Lady of Georgia alongside her husband who wants to keep her and his past a secret, battles her need to help her son or perhaps not help her son. Conflict has never been as emotionally stirred in a novel. At this moment, Catrina’s is trying to persuade her to take flight and run away as she winds up in a cross battle of morals vs political integrity.
The latter ensues as a much more powerful and compelling struggle as Annie Lou’’s transferred struggles will leave readers also trying to answer the most challenging questions like, " Can Blacks can stand still while a flyer for a Democratic party holds a confederate flag on one side and the words, " If THEY win, we lose," referring to a black family featured on the back? Can you stand for your child to go to school and read history books void of the real struggle of Black families, and not just reminders of racism, lynchings, and war?
Can you stand how history books evoke fear and silence in Black children from ever growing up and taking risks to speak against hate crimes? Can you stand to be a White American who knows your family bred with black blood, but are too proud to omit this so-called societal fallacy or acknowledge these family members who have acknowledged you?
If you are a Black American in 2008, these are just ‘‘pressions of the past, that still linger. If you are white, and void of prejudice, you will sympathize with the struggles that carry on from the appointment of a black governor to a romance between Hughston and Nicole that will force even the most knowing soul to trace one’’s genealogy before getting married. Yes, there is a clever story about CAT, and four ladies who’’d you never guess will have to face racial tensions to just cope in their own world. There is no where to run or hide from the sensitive issue that will cause eyebrows to raise when it becomes evident that racism overpowers love!
Annie Lou, just one more of the most intriguing characters in ‘‘pressions, reveals all truths as the owner of a day care center committed to writing a children’’s book about Black History in the future. She heralds as a historian who understands that to exist in this world, total acceptance and a feeling of belonging is greater to the Black American than one’’s own desires, needs, and even love.
The dynamic layers of race relations and culture from as long ago when slavery existed in America the onset of this tale, takes on a course of struggle as ‘‘pressions still try to find their place and purpose of existence among the most intricate and engaging story plot to come along since Lalita Tademy’’s, Cane River. ‘‘Pressions creates a whole new meaning of racism filled with deception, twisted relationships and lies that filter to the reader’’s inner psyche, and disgust for the way of the world. "pressions is brilliant, poignantly written, and fit for a movie starring the finest actors or maybe even the author herself, Edith Holmes as the narrator, someone who may very well be one of the most gifted storytellers of all time.
Edith Holmes is not your average storyteller. There is history and thorough research embedded in every page that will leave readers to wonder if Edith is a dream weaver herself, someone who can escape into someone’s dreams and dig up the past to the point of discovering THE TRUTH.
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Quiet As It's Kept
AUTHOR: Janet West Sellars
JOINED: 7/18/05
WEBSITE: http://www.janetwestsellars.com
EMAIL: jsellars@cox.net
PUBLISHER: iUniverse (POD)
GENRE: Commercial Fiction
ISBN: 0-595-33922-0
PAGES: 168
BOOK BINDING: Trade Paperback
PRICE: 12.95
ORDER NUMBER:
ABOUT THE BOOK: Quiet As It's Kept weaves a tangled web of deception as secrets, lies, and lust bring troubling consequences to the everyday lives of an African-American family.
ABOUT AUTHOR: Originally from the DC area, currently reside in Newport News, VA with my family. Resolve workplace disputes for a federal government agency.
THE REVIEW
Janet West Sellars intelligently draws the reader’’s eye to the cover of her latest novel, Quiet As It’’s Kept, with a beautiful oil pastel-like montage of a mysterious scene depicting innocence lost, and obvious secrets suppressed. A young child’’s eyes strikingly pierce at the reader’’s soul possibly beckoning for help or answers to someone’’s inner questions too mysterious to reveal and so you buy the book and proceed to read Ms. Sellar’’s debut novel.
The setting nestles within Newport News, Virginia among the charismatic family of James Alexander Scott who many town people respect as the deacon of the community church.
His own children all grown up, Terry, Zee and Shirley, have mixed feelings about him when he dies, but seem to have always harbored these feelings as revealed since the day their mother (Olivia) apparently died from hemorrhaging complications or did she? Forbidden and underlying truths unfold from the children one-by-one.
Dr. Marshall, one of Mr. Scott’’s best friends claims that he saw him place a pillow over his wife’’s face upon finding out that she may have been cheating on him. When James Alexander Scott was alive, he experienced overwhelming guilt when Zee believed this to be truth, but if you’’ve ever heard of the quote, ""Beware the messenger,"" you’’ll need to stay tuned and stick around to find out what really happened to Olivia, and if Dr. Marshall was actually friend or foe.
Every family member holds depth, history, and layers of intricate estranged emotions brought on by personal insecurities, paranoia and self-doubt over past and present circumstances in Quiet as Its Kept which may be the only masterful tale where a person stands accused on his death bed. The family member’’s emotions scathe the surface of a building climactic- filled story that unveils the kind of pain and deceit that would make Mr. Scott turn over in his grave.
Janet Sellars masterfully tells the point of view of each person in the story and allows the reader who is carefully following all in this mystery-filled drama to step into their minds and discover each layer of deceit until the riveting ending. Janet has interwoven believable and memorable characters one would want to see on the big screen, and by the likes of it, Quiet As It Kept will be adapted for a movie or possibly a series.
Overall, Quiet As It’’s Kept holds the ingredients to keep readers glued and awaiting the aftermath of accusations, lies and mis-communication from beginning to end. It is a story that cannot be rushed so follow carefully as Ms. Sellars, a modern day plot weaver, crafts one of the most inviting stories of the season. You will shout with hysteria when you find out the ending and never listen to a begotten messenger again. Reviewed by Heather Covington
Quilted From The Heart: Voices From Within: A Poetry And Prose Anthology
By Dale Benjamin Drakeford
Reviewed by Heather Covington
5 Stars
"A poetry and prose anthology of the renowned Edenwald Writers resonate the fact that changes come from life experiences, which include less simple ways to express simple things. Yet the simplicity remains while encouraging more questions because of the changes." Modern day common sense poetry with a powerful unified message! A masterful riddle of poems for the intellect, and no wonder, Dale is a professor.
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Rockin’ Around That Christmas Tree
By Donna Hill & Francis Ray
Reviewed by Heather Covington
5 Stars
"Rockin’’ Around The Christmas Tree is a dual authored book by Francis Ray and Donna Hill that was so anticipated, advanced orders poured in before its release. The title itself is self explanatory and invites holiday book grabbers to get a hold of this romance gone bust thrill ride about Denise, a married woman who leaves her husband and kids. Will Edward get his wife back?. Men will be shocked to find out if Edward’’s plans lead to some real rockin’’ around the Christmas tree. !"A fun drama!
Rage Times Fury
Author: Trustice Gentles
Review by Marian E.
5 Stars
How do you reprimand a drug pushing gansta that the law just can't seem to touch? In Rage Times Fury it appears as if no one ever tried... that is until little M.J. became an innocent victim of a drive-by ordered by the neighborhood drug dealer, ‘‘‘‘Drugs’’’’. At that point it was up to M.J.’’s father, Malik Ford, Sr. and his boyz to exact a brand of street justice that would turn the dangerous Brooklyn neighborhood of Crown Heights and the life of ‘‘‘‘Drugs’’’’ upside down.
In a raw and gritty style just like the mean city streets, Trustice Gentles captures the essence of inner city living and confines it between the pages of Rage times Fury. I found that there is room for character development which would have added length and a sense of connecting with each character, but in general it wasn't necessary to keep this fast paced tale moving, it would have aided in understanding why Malik, his friends, and even Soraya the mother of his children were willing to risk life and limb to go about things in the manner in which they did. Every parent wants a safe haven for their children, but having the ring leader, ‘‘‘‘Drugs’’’’ tucked safely behind prison walls, did little to pacify Malik. There were still several others out there and even though it was nearly two years later, Malik’’s rage failed to dissipate. Why was he driven with the support of his woman Soraya, when women are generally more level headed?
Rage times Fury has an interesting story line, written in first person, but lacks the depth of emotion in which I've grown to appreciate and feel it would have created a greater sense of tension like when they lay in wait outside of Trip’s house, I could imagine the scene was intense, but couldn't feel it. Malik also enlisted the aid of a former friend and present enemy, ‘‘Bam,’’ who agrees to assist without hesitation and his reason for aiding Malik was over simplified; he merely stated, ""I have a son that I love also and I'll do anything for him." For reasons unknown Trustice did not develop an explanation as to why Malik would find this statement unforgettable. I was left pondering what it was about the comment that would move him to the point where it would have an everlasting affect.
Rage times Fury does roll right along when surprisingly it transitions into a series of related events, a twist if you will, which may allow Malik to complete his plan of revenge. Will Malik finally be able to put this issue behind him and find the peace that we all deserve?
Overall the story is not without substance; I enjoyed the read, and encourage you to read it for yourselves, especially anyone who would like a taste of the hard cold ‘‘Hood’’from the safety of your own home. ‘‘Rage Times Fury, by Trustice Gentles’’ is available wherever books are sold.
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Secrets In My Closet
by Harold Antoine
Reviewed by Heather Covington
5 Stars
A fresh, hip and talented voice in the literary world has arrived, and his name is Harold Antoine Anderson, author of Secrets In My Closet. Kayleel Jordan is a three timer with a purpose. He’’s a lover, player, and a "dawg" as said in the hood. he falls in love with one girlfriend, preys on another one’’s emotions, and barely keeps one by his side from the skin of his hide with an escapade of plots and daring schemes that lend to a fast page turner that leaves readers wanting to read more. Harold delves into issues of incest and other off-your- seat issues without inhibition. He’’s daring, and quite a story teller with a flair for writing urban tales with intelligence, and climatic issues without senseless shock value. The story follows along with excellent timing. First few chapters jitters symbolic of debut writers set the book off to a rocky start, but intricate nuances between the characters such as Nataya, Angela, and Karisma overcome the editing glitches of the uncorrected proofs Harold daringly sent into print via print on demand to get the book out there to those who have been patiently awaiting the novel. Now in the hands of St. Martin’’s editor, there is no telling where Harold’’s humorous hip and witty writing will land him. Harold has got a way with words, and with some fine tuning is sure to slow it all down with perfection and become a popular voice for today’’s male fiction writer. Who will Harold’’s main character, Kayleel, wind up with? You will be shocked to find out. This is secrets, sex, lies, and drama all mixed like a flavor punch you just can’’t put down.
Seven Soulful Secrets: Finding Your
Purpose & Minding Your Mission
Stephanie Stokes Oliver
Reviewed by Heather Covington
5 Stars
The 7 secrets are easily spelled out and remembered with a mnemonic phrase for each letter of the word PURPOSE, from purpose, ultimacy, relaxation, positivity, and optimum health, to spirituality, and esteem. I couldn't agree with Stephanie more and in this case,"Words aren't easily said but rather explained in detail to give readers a clear picture of how to obtain purpose in life. Since, I've read this book I realize that I don't want to be ordinary, but extraordinary as the book suggests without shame. Talent is meant to be shared with world not kept a secret. Many talented souls inspire folks, promote self esteem and even save a life. A life can be easily shattered in regret for not accomplishing one's goals within a time frame, but you know what...the process of obtaining goals is far more rewarding than the product. Stephanie encourages readers to always think of your health by developing life promising habits, and most of all love yourself. If your mission seeks to fulfill these seven soulful secrets, Stephanie's book is a great choice.
Shadow Lover
by Hope C. Clarke
Reviewed by Heather Covington
5 Stars
"Riveting!"
There is something erotically suspenseful, bone-shaking and riveting about Shadow Lover, by Hope C. Clark, the mistress of erotic mystery and romance thrillers. The cover exposes an Amityville like home from a side glance and oozing bright-red blood from a victim, or is it a victim? A shadow of a mannish figure overwhelms the scene along with seeping gel like hands that send a chill to your spine, but spark interest so, that you return to your private hideaway to slowly read the most heart throbbing book you have read in a while. I know the feeling and believe me, I didn’’t want to rush it.
The tingles in my stomach left an orgasmic fill in my tummy like a crush at first site as IVAN, the lustful, abusive, demonic husband appeared like a scorned child returning the favor of abuse to his wife...Angelica... in one of the most ravaging beatings ever witnessed in a book, exposing the dark side in full light of the abusive man. Ironically, and shun me for such a distasteful notion, the reader engages in a moment of empathy for IVAN, who receives a dose of his own fire from BOB, this is Barbara.
You’’d think he’’d retort from seeming so shameless about attempting to sign his wife out of the hospital after bludgeoning her almost to death and seemingly developing enraged jealously as he expects the handsome Mr. Painkin has taking a liking to his wife, and possibly seduced her while recuperating from her husbands inflicted punches. You begin to wonder why this man isn’’t arrested, but of course like Angelica, I had empathy for IVAN. Had I momentarily stepped into the shoes of the abused women who willfully says, it’’s going to be okay, until it is tragically too late. Just when you thin that the plot will be for Ivan to find out if his wife is seeing Mr. Steve Painkin, the unthinkable happens to the elusive, sexily appealing, but forsaken woman beater.
Each scene in Hope’’s book seemed like a movie with a new age of shock value never imagined.. Her book takes you to the edge of a broken bridge, with a drop clearing, makes you feel the fall with cheeks gushed back at full velocity, and freezes you in mid air with curses under your breath for taking the plunge, and nears you to the open jaws of a shark’’s hot breath to remind you that you’’re about to fall into a trap that you never saw coming. Her book is not for the timid and uptight individual. The upright runs loose and wild, as the intellectual mind runs rampant and gives in.
I was so enthralled by this sexy mystery thriller, with interludes of seduction too hot for t.v., but just right for a movie. Romance, and abuse dangerously slap each other as the reader wonders who is the true victim and who is the true murderer. There are some other characters like RICHARD who make this thrill ride one of those books you don’’t want to stop reading, but sorry, you’’ll have to pause...in order to catch your breath. Go ahead, jump over the bridge. What’’s nice, is that you will return to safety. It’’’’s more than a book folks, it’’s a movie very soon.
"Hope intertwines seduction, heat and love-making scenes that are beyond your normal fairytale romances, with calculating Danielle Steele murderous escapades in the name of love that will leave mouth agape, knees twittering and eyes glued to the book from start to finish–––– but don’’’’t expect to get to the end without reading this spine-tingling mystery thriller with line to line progression, just like the scenes of Silence Of the Lambs, and Trois, movies that you can’’’’t get up from your seat for a minute or you have missed the twisted plot. Outrageously dangerous, inviting and one of the best thrillers I have read this year."
SISTER CEO
by Cheryl Broussard
Reviewed by Heather Covington
5 Stars
Not only is Cheryl a smart business woman, but has an outstanding book entitled Sister CEO, The Black Woman's Guide to Starting Your Own Business. You wouldn't know that Cheryl runs her own money management company at first glance, but she is just as together as her latest spin off from The Black Woman's Guide To Financial Independence. It informs the sister CEO on managing money, the essentials of business, and growing your business in plain and simple language a sister can understand even if she's intellectually gifted. Plus, there are tons of resources nestled in the back matter, that sorry, you won't be able to jot down. Buy this book and take it home if you're a serious Sister CEO.
6 Days In January
by William Frederick CooperReviewed by Heather Covington
5 Stars
5 Stars"Have you ever met a woman perfectly designed to tear a man’s heart into pieces?"6 Days In January by William Frederick Cooper, is a powerful modern day tale that lures the reader through a forbidden and candid journey into the mind of a Black man whose deepest, most compassionate and forbidden desires to fall in love, are scornfully tainted and toyed with by one women, and until the bitter end of this engaged-filled urban drama that will lend to controversy on today’s Black relationships. William Mc Call, is the young, debonair and athletically built dream man. He’s the man every woman would want, and the executive for a top New York firm. He’s got it all.
His mischievous prowess and unassuming charm has earned him many sexual, and dangerous encounters with women throughout this spin-of- the-tale- modern day shattered and dangerously twisted romance story set in the heart of New York City. Movie screen ready, 6 Days In January breeds an accurate depiction of New York familiarity scenic wise, and also, enchants the reader with nuances of melodic R& B songs that set the mood of this calculating drama that unfolds day by day, and minute by minute. However, Della is the lady with a female aura that men of today will blame for their hopelessness of finding true love as William cautiously attempts to win over her heart at "The Game of Love." Della tortures William Mc Call, and forbids his advances with touch- and- go, love- me- or- hate me, stay- or -leave me behavior that is enough to drive a man insanely mad. It is rather comical, but simultaneously sad and demeaning behavior on the part of Della, "The Diva!" Meanwhile, Andrea, a forsaken soul who possesses the same chord of dissonance as Della, but William is able to weather a relationship with, becomes entangled in William’s backlashes and transfer of failed emotions over Della’s consistent rejection of his truest heartfelt emotions. She is rude and brash. William’’s conscious thoughts entertainingly talk aloud and becomes a mind bearing hunt to find the questions to the answers he does not know, and nor does the readers second guess until the very end. What will drive William to finally say that the hunt is over or will the hunt ever stop? Will he find the answers to Della’s rejection? Will he fall out of love for Della, and finally fall in love with Angela Johnson? Will Della see in William what other women like Andrea see. There are many issues seeping below each character in 6 Days In January. The women will say, the rejected man is aggressive, overly confident, irresponsible, cocky, rude, not good enough in bed, a player, liar and cheat, but William is the anti-thesis of these stereotypical views. William buys flowers, acknowledges a woman’s space, need for security, fluctuating and rampant emotions of jealousy, memories of a troubled upbringing, disappointing past relationships, and a need for wanting to be loved, nurtured and appreciated. His character is breathtaking and resembles a seasoned connoisseur of romance. The answers may lie in the one and only truth that a female reading this book will understand as she gets to know Della, "The Perfectly Designed Heartbreak Woman," and that men who read this book will only begin to learn the signs after the lesson is over.What is the lesson? " The woman never loved you." Every man should read this book to learn and celebrate the truth of William’s reality and decide for oneself if it is a travesty or a triumphant reawakening from the female and male’s perspective. Do not think you have discovered all of the answers by reading this review. What happens to William is earth shattering, but a powerful testament that the strength of a man’s soul lies in his mind. Find out if William loses his mind in "6 Days in January?""One man’’s book, his soul, and thousands of methodical pressure points that haunt the single man’s human incognita to the point of no return."
So Good It Hurts by Na' Kisha Crawford
Reviewed by Heather Covington
5 Stars
Na'Kisha Crawford's new shocking tell-all relationship and advice book exposes her personal experiences with falling into loneliness and despair over looking for Mr. Right to overcoming her struggles and finding the man of her dreams through everlasting marriage, but her journey to happienss is no fairytale.
In Part One of her inspirational novel, Crawford shares her high school to young woman hood experiences as that girl seeking the ultimate "Bad Boy" and what all young girls seem to fall for not knowing the consequences. Her ideal man symbolized the coolness of her father's mystique, but little did she know the pain that would come from "playing with fire."
Her honest and candid novel plays out with "Real Talk" advice like a big sister who is now happily married, but can speak from her mistakes to guide women in choosing a committed man as a partner with qualities many single women today may overlook.
Crawford talks about falling prey to sweet talk and flirtatious men and later on wanting to get serious about possibly moving in with a fellow, but with controlling ways like wanting to avoid her friendship with his friends.
These are scenarios all girls in relationships will experience and Na'Kisha simply shares in-your -face tips like, "He will do just enough to keep you hopeful, but not enough to give you much hope!" If this sounds like you, maybe you'll want to read Crawford's book. If the situations sound like a personal friend's current life, you'll want to give this book as a gift.
A shocking revelation is exposed when Crawford finds herself having to help her friends make decisions who seem to be attracted to drug dealers, alcoholics and men who don't take care of their children, and which encouraged her to write the book.
Crawford does not profess to have all of the answers, but her poem at the end of her book, "Something Like a Superwoman," pretty much sums up her life in the present and all she has overcome from surviving breast cancer diagnosed at age 27 and not only accepting this challenge in her life, but with the love of her life.
All grown up, beautiful in spirit and fashion savvy like a runway literary model, Na'Kisha lives each day to the fullest as a licensed Real Estate Broker and fast on her way to becoming a top most requested motivational speaker. I got a chance to hear Na'Kisha Crawford bring the crowd to their feet with applause and right before a film presentation tribute to legendary historian Lerone Bennett, Jr. at the African American Pavilion at Book Expo. I enjoyed her book and her motivational message. Crawford symbolizes today's SUPERWOMAN!
So Good it Hurts is COMPASSIONATE, GENUINE, REAL and A GIRL'S TRUE BEST FRIEND from any walk of life searching for love through the pain and fight of one's past mistakes and VALIDATES those in a loving relationship who have survived the storm. I highly recommend this well-written book.
Disilgold SOUL Magazine Rating: *****5 Stars
Soaring On Clipped Wings
By Darcel P. Williams
Blurb by Heather Covington
5 Stars
"From a love for jazz, gospel, dance, theater and African heritage to the appreciation of early morning dew on flowers awakening to the sun, Tahiri and Zaddik share like minds. A cultured man, soft-spoken yet intense in that which engages his interests, Zaddik holds an alluring appeal for Tahiri. Soaring On Clipped Wings is a redemptive work that glimmers with hope for the future of all humanity. Astonishingly beautiful imagery envelops this story of love that develops amid a compelling sense of destiny and a shared sense of purpose." Beautiful!
SOARING ON CLIPPED WINGS
BY DARCEL P. WILLIAMS
Reviewed by Heather Covington
5 Stars
A tumultuous, and balmy sky warmly embraces the cover of a book that heralds the fiery mystique and tribulations to come at small housing complex set in the heart of Texas, but demurely warning readers that one of the doves taking flight along the sleek highways is flying low and headed for trouble. This premonition becomes dramatically and painstakingly evident as three brothers, Lemarko, Devin and Melyan start off on a trip, where classic wild boy frolicking in the streets leads to a fateful accident that causes the window of Cyber Works Store to shatter to pieces. Of course, the youth should know to run, and two boys do wish to flee. Instead, classic ring leader of the pack, one who can bully the others, exert his authority, and entertains classic peer pressure with dominance sort of like the classic scene in Juice starring the late Tupac, and leads the other two boys to follow and do something minute, but criminal-minded enough that causes someone to stage a higher and unexpected crime much worst than the boys committed. LeMarko is the ring leader without remorse, and you get the sense that something is tragically wrong or missing from this youth’’s life throughout the story, that causes him to act violently. There is symbolism in the names as well, and if you read very carefully. By fate’s circumstances, a women who parallels the beauty of Zaddick’’s former lady, and who turns out to be the owner of Cyber Works who has experienced this crime on his store front that has sent the police on a manhunt for three troubled boys for a crime they did not commit to the severity as police have stated, stumbles upon his life, and changes it forever. This is your classic forbidden love story due to fate and circumstance, but the reader is allowed to step in and enjoy every moment. Not only is Tahiri the lady who had planned to shoot a video in front of Cyber Works now face to face with Zaddick, a handsome man who confesses to his best friend, that no women could ever take his former lady’’s place, but he soon discovers that Tahiri is the lady he saw just days before at an organization’’s function looking beautiful, bold, Afrocentric, simple, pure, radiant and breath taking. Zahiri is together. She is spiritual, has wonderful daily routines, knows herself, loves life, enjoys her job as a video producer and has no idea that she is about to fall in love with a man who is attracted to her, but has trouble acknowledging his feelings.
Together, as the story smoothly sashays to scenes reflective of the three troubled youth, it is obvious that Zaddick is too proud to omit his desire for Tahiri in not knowing if she is interested at all. Readers may wish to nudge this stubborn character and ask, "What is wrong with him?" Classic love games make this story a delight to read page by page. I blushed upon reading each chapter. I thought of all of the relationship movies I have enjoyed from Love Jones to Love & Basketball. Ms. Williams brings back the days of innocence and flirting between star crossed lovers with the kind of intrigue that will have readers wonder, "When will it happen?" and hoping that it will happen quickly before the fate of these boys ensue who are in trouble with the law.
After all, Zaddick’s business is destroyed by means you will be shocked by, and wonder how did this happen and why. On the other hand, Tahiri is the compassionate humanitarian savior who dearly loves working with children, and giving them hope. There is real dialogue and romance ensuing among the trouble unfolding. Is it going to happen? Will Zaddick and Tahiri fall in love? Is something wrong with Zaddick? What will happen to the fate of the boys? The reader doesn’’t mind the delay. Soaring On Clipped Wings is like a dream that you’’ll never want to end, and what is so inspiringly beautiful, are the poetical masterpieces from Tahiri’’s soul intricately interwoven into one of the most captivating and original love story of our time. By a twist of fate, this story leads to a surprise ending that will force all to look at the art of falling in love in ways never imagined, and ironically replace thoughts of anger toward troubled Juvenile offenders with the art of compassion.
Ms. Williams is a gifted storyteller, who for a first time novelist, has also mastered the art of writing a love story filled with compassion, and understanding for those in love, to be in love, not sure if they are in love, and those who have never found love. It can be enjoyed by every reader. I can envision Soaring On Clipped Wings as a movie and readers will too.
The last question is to figure out who are the other two doves flying high in the sky on this beautiful book by Darcel P. Williams? Open to find out, and no it is not Zaddick and Tahiri. Read between the lines. Search deep within yourself to find this answer. Soaring On Clipped Wings is a breathtaking novel from beginning to end.
Soul Mates: An Illustrated Guide to Black Love, Sex and Romance
By Eric V. Copage
Reviewed by Heather Covington
5 Stars
"Eric V. Copage boldly goes where no writer has gone before to explicitly show Black lovers how to make love with illustrations that make Soul Mates a must read book for couples everywhere. It is time to release your inhibitions and understand the beauty of Soul Mates: Black Love, Sex and Romance. It’’s more than a reference book, it is guide for black couples who want to better their relationships."
Spanish Eyes
By Denise Campbell
Blurb by Heather Covington
5 Stars
"Spanish Eyes is a tale of two lovers, Chynna and Miguel, but one is harboring a deadly secret that isn’’t apparent until the ending of this masterfully created tale that spins out of control. The plot is unbelievable and one of the most daring story lines with homosexuality, games, lies, and deceit mixed into a story line so original, that you forget that the author has lured you to read a book with the most taboo twists and plots ever imagined from a new novelist." Daring and bold!
Sweet Sacrifice
By Crystal Rhodes
Blurb by Heather Covington
5 Stars
"Sash Adams is an unemployed recent law school graduate struggling to raise her young brother, Sweet, alone. Why would anyone kidnap him and demand the ransom from arrogant, media mogul, Brandon Plaine, a complete stranger? Personalities clash, tempers flare and passions ignite as Sash and Brandon race against time to save her brother’s life." A thrill ride of pure excitement from start to finish.
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THE BADNESS
WEBSITE: www.nanequartay.com
EMAIL: nquartay@yahoo.com
PUBLISHER: StreborBooks Publishing
GENRE: Urban Fiction
ISBN: 1593090374
PAGES: 240
PRICE: $10.40
ABOUT THE BOOK: Alias suffers from a Curse that has afflicted his family for generations and as he uncovers his family's history, he has to confront the tragedy and pain of his geneology in order to be free.
A chance encounter with Doin and Joozy, two people who find a love in each other that they thought was impossible, ensnares them in a fated romance that brings an entire city to the brink of chaos.
D.Wayne has survived a childhood of abuse at the hands of his mother but has slowly given in to insanity and now follows the voice of his god, Ruh, who guides him in a deadly mission, leaving chaos in his path.
The Badness weaves an intricate tale of eroticism, mysticism and a modern day romance that examines love, life and our own humanity.
ABOUT AUTHOR: Nane Quartay is an emerging voice on the urban fiction scene. His debut novel, Feenin, was published under the StreborBooks banner and he has since contributed to various anthologies. Breaking The Cycle edit by Zane was released earlier this year and Nane's contribution entitled The Grindstone marked his first foray into the subject of domestic abuse. Truth Be Told, an anthology dealing with male sexuality is set to be released later this year will also include Nane's contribution called The Beautiful Ones. The Badness is his newest release from StreborBooks and is currently available in bookstores.
Nane Quartay was born in upstate New York and currently resides in the Washington DC area. After a stint in the US Navy, he returned to the East Coast and began writing fiction. He is currently at work on his next novel.
THE EBONY TREE
By Maxine Thompson
Blurb by Heather Covignton
5 Stars
"Tracing the story of four generations of African_American women, The Ebony Tree chronicles the unheralded lives, which opened the doors for their progeny. The story examines the inner life of one of many women who had no voice during that time in history. At the same time, it delves into the legacy of silence and secrecy between Black mothers and daughters, a carryover from slavery." A gifted story teller.
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Unconditional
PUBLISHER: Genesis Press
GENRE: Romance
AUTHOR: A.C. Arthur
JOINED: 4/05
WEBSITE: www.acarthur.net
EMAIL: acarthur22@yahoo.com
ISBN: 158571142X
BOOK BINDING:
PRICE: $9.95
ORDER NUMBER:
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Abigail Swanson’s life is just the way she likes it, centered around her career. When her biological clock starts ticking unexpectedly she finds it hard to ignore. But a routine physical alters her life forever.
Dr. Mason Penney is running from his past, trying to make important decisions about his future when he’’s faced with unpredictable circumstances.
Abigail is set to deal with her breast cancer diagnosis despite a non-committal man, a meddling mother and her sister’’s bitchy mother-in-law when she discovers something totally unexpected, almost unbelievable and absolutely unconditional.
ABOUT AUTHOR:
Artist C. Arthur was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland where she currently resides with her husband and three children. An active imagination and a love for reading encouraged her to begin writing in high school and she hasn’’t stopped since.
Her debut novel ‘‘Object of His Desire’’ was written almost six years ago when a picture of an Italian villa sparked the idea of an African-American/Italian hero. Determined to bring a new edge to romance, she continues to develop intriguing plots, racy characters and fresh dialogue——thus keeping the readers on their toes!
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Vengeance Is Mine
By Hope C. Clarke
Blurb by Heather Covington
5 Stars
"Keesha Smalls has been out of passion’’s game for a long time until she takes a second look at her best friend's son. The dashingly gorgeous Chris Walker brings more than flaming romance to Keesha's bedroom. Their illicit romance is perfect until Christine, Chris' mother finds out." A thriller classic and quite possibly, Hope’’s most captivating novel to date.
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Wendy’s Got The Heat
By Wendy Williams
Blurb by Heather Covington
5 Stars
"Wendy’’s Got The Heat begins with this author’’s daring reflections on what it takes to get to where she’s at, and shuns those who have gotten to where they are at by disrespecting their values and integrity. She is definitely an authority on the air, and whether folks like her raunchy and controversial "National Inquirer" style, bad girl personality, her book let’s you know that she should be one of the most respected and glorified radio talk show hosts in history."A book you will enjoy.
Title: What Color Am I?
Author: Annette Smith
reviewed by Heather Covington
Chief Editor of Disilgold Soul Literary Review
What Color Am I? by Annette Smith is a warm and compelling children’s story that is probably the first book of its kind that addresses the issue of the race, culture and identity crisis among Black youth in a way that has never surfaced, and even from the most prolific writers of the diaspora.
Ms. Smith has created a children’s storybook that is a masterpiece and must have book for all teacher’s and parents who are committed to raising youth with healthy self-esteem. Canvassing issues and deep provoking questions will arise like, "What should a teacher or parent say if a child has a problem using a black crayon to color one’s own face during an art assignment in school or another student realizes that his skin color is not black, but a variation of brown?" Should the teacher or parent intervene in a child’s decision making intervene or insist that a brown skinned child color one’s self portrait with a shade of brown, and if darker skinned, use the color black when multi-cultural crayons are not available?" Other questions like, " How do you address a child who does not want to identify with one’s own race and not be labeled black in rejecting the color of one’s skin as black?" are handled with care and extreme responsibility making Ms. Smith a connoisseur of modern day conflict resolution and it’s just her first children’s book.
It is evident from reading "What Color Am I?" that today’s black youth have questions about their race and identity, and often there aren’t any books available to fully address the issue which is so important in developing children’s self worth and self esteem. Many grow up with the stigma of traumatic situations that may be unavoidable and are only relived in their adult lives and encounters with adults who still invoke inferiority complexes on people not of their same race whether white or black.
Ms. Smith has heightened the sensitivity of the topic of skin color and instead of sweeping it underneath the carpet, she challenges the notion of parents and teachers taking a stand to address the topic in diverse classrooms. She seems to understand that how we address our youth will determine how they are able to handle unlikely situations that deal with differences in race and culture later on. What Color Am I? is truly a first of its kind, and will raise eyebrows and debate over how teachers handle each complex thought by unforgettable characters like Stephan, and who any young children can relate to whether black and white. The children’s book author has a unique trademark style that will undoubtedly become her signature if more children’s books are to follow. I see this book as a template of a series of multi-cultural books by the author that undoubtedly have what it take to win the hearts of kids who will love exploring the mind of Stephan’s day-to-day encounters with the same excitement as books from Harry Potter, Beverly Clearly, and Sam Camsey. Look out for this new children’s book author on the rise voted 5 Stars! The DLNA! and the YOUnity Reviewers Guild Children’s Book of the Year.
What Next: A Memoir Toward World Peace
by Walter Mosley
Reviewed by Heather Covington
5 Stars
When I got on the chat room with The AALBC. com founder, Troy Johnson, Thumper and Linda, author of Althea, our topic of discussion was What Next by Walter Mosley, a cleverly interwoven essay designed to encourage African Amercians to take action and bring the world to peace, among all of the latest world issues and tragedies evolving from September 11.
I am merciful that this world renown writer survived the tragedies and caught the glimpse of horror in New York on the eventful day from his high rise posh apartment in Manhattan. I am resolved that he tributes his book to Haki Madhubiti.
Okay, the man has clout, we're in for a conversation, and all is touching. Kudos go out to Mr. Mosley for listening to his grandpa who shares the irony of war, and plight of Black Americans being faced with the realization that even if Black and in American uniform, are discriminated against, shot and forcefully killed by opposing forces with the same anger and resentment toward White soldiers during World War 2 as an "American."
The question of Americanism fuels the reader's daunting emotions, who Mosley seems to sheepishly but intentionally question, " Are you proud to be American?" A gulp of hot fiery tension develops in the base of the readers neck, emotions fly, and before you know it, you too are lashing out at the brilliant writer with menacing anger, but it's really the issues you've been waiting to quell.
This isn't a conversation that unfolds, it's a war between those who debate the issue. After the debate is over, you cleverly realize that as an African American you have fallen into Mr. Mosley's trap which unveils the issues within the Black Community and even how we relate to one another.
The question is no longer, " Are you proud to be American?" but do you really love and respect your fellow Americans no matter what culture, ethnicity, race, upbringing and race enough to take pride in being an American citizen even with the tragedies bestowed upon Black America from slavery to social upheavals.
After all, many Black Americans are living the dream, and financially stable. Are these folks, like White America responsible for helping those not as well off? Are we asking for reimbursement from within our own community of successful Blacks in America to digress from retribution owed to Black America for the injustices and inequitable land bartering reminiscent of the sell out of Manhattan to Native Americans? Questions, questions, questions unfold, and the question of what do we do is so earthshaking, that between all of our responses on the chat room, cause the transcript to be lost forever. My computer also froze.
My last thought, "Did someone freeze my computer? Only being humorous. I hope Thumper, and I can make up, and I thank Troy Johnson for being a mediator of cyber war. I would have to blame Walter for this fateful mishap and forbid him to keep his questions to himself.
However, expect your heart to palpitate, emotions to fly, and true forgiveness of the eloquent Mr. Mosley, who only asked a question. Calm down, enjoy this thorough and poignant read. I hope you didn't think this question would be answered in one read? Expect many more debates and emotions run amuck from those who have missed the message. I hear you Walter. What is next?
Question: Was that Walter Mosley live on C-S-pan during The Harlem Book Fair 2003 blending in with the questioners of the panelists and just as charming as ever? Who would know the man is a humorous and light-hearted soul who can stir up controversy around the world with such powerful strength to affect a whole nation?
When Butterflies Kiss
by Sekou
Review by Mahogany Book club
5 Stars
A collective novel woven together by ten writers without any previous discussion of the story line. Sekou starts the story and Kiini Ibura Salaam, Elizabeth Clara Brown, Tkalla, Natasha Tarply, Korby Marks, Shange, Kim Green, Leticia Benson and Mariahadessa Ekere Tallie each contribute a chapter. Sekou starts the story with Dante, a writer who fears commitment and is tormented by his nightmares. As the chapters unfold, Dante falls in and out of relationships with beautiful women, and each woman gives him something he needs . After breaking up with Sheron, a beautiful exotic dancer, Dante finds out how much of a friend Malik, his so called best friend is when he begins boasting to him about how he is dating Sheron. Feeling hurt and betrayed Dante heads to Jamaica for a writers workshop where he finds more erotic adventure that leaves him tormented inside. Treasure, who always seems to read his mind and know his needs had given him a new journal as a gift and made Dante promise to write in it. Dante discovers just how much a treasure this new journal is when he starts to write in it.
Word Song
by Carlise Jones Carter
If you have read Word Song by debut poetess, Carlise Jones Carter, you’ve witnessed a poetical and historical novella carefully crafted and beautifully landscaped with illustrative masterpieces by her mother, Sandra Cherry Jones.
Word Song is an embodiment and masterful creation that couples the powerful talent of a mother and daughter team who have surfaced with elegance and perfection to launch a poetical work that is packaged to entice even reluctant readers of poetry. This is not your ordinary poetry book, but sort of a poetical gift for the soul that resembles a huge booklet of greetings you just want to give to loved ones as THE GIFT of all gifts.
Carlise’s poetical words speak to the reader and capture the essence of one’s heart, mind and soul with works like "Eye Can See," and "To Think." Her messages are uncanny and sweet to risque and daring. She addresses every issue with an open mind and draws the reader in with tempting and alluring imagery through her style of poetical flavor. Her fine poetical tunes are melodic, soothing, like a big sister reaching out to you and at other times calling out to the reader for love, patience and understanding. She does not follow the usual poetry format, sort of defies conformity and stands out with authority. Her poetry has style, her voice has rhythm, and her book is by far one of the most soothing to the senses.
The added illustrations enhance the packaging and design of the book making Carlise Jones Carter poetry books a brand all her own. Beautiful painted depictions of Ray Charles, children’s painted faces, a woman at work, and garden imagery make the book breathtaking and a site to behold from beginning to work.
Readers will enjoy the care and time Carlise took to craft Word Songs. A designer poet on the turn of the century is born and has created a new era that infuses poetry with art. Word Songs sets the standard. Disilgold Soul Magazine honors Carlise with the YOUnity Guild Award Best Illustrated Poetry Book of the Year.
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Your Body’s Calling Me: the Life and Times of Robert R. Kelly
by Jake Brown
Reviewed by Heather Covington
5 Stars
Knock, knock! Walk right in to the life and times, and under the cover scenes of R. Kelly without retakes, censorship or cover ups. R. Kelly is exposed in this bare-it-all unauthorized documentary by Jake Brown that is so explicit, raw and accurate, not even R. Kelly has stepped up to his own home plate to challenge the issues he’’s been battling from music, love, sex and money. It seems as if the song balladeer crooner/ hip hop R& B sensation has a musical overtone on the Black community with hits like " I Wish", " I Believe I Can Fly," "The World’s Greatest" from the Muhammad Ali Soundtrack and" You Saved Me,"that have washed away his crimes of passion and won over the Black African community and even mainstream worldwide media, but not so fast...there are unbelievable up front and close pictures that depict four sides of the singer from explicit and controversial to scandalous and possibly the most revered R& B singers of the millennium. Take your pick. Finally, the real story is revealed to put the rumors to rest. Your Body’s Calling Me: the Life and Times of Robert R. Kelly by Jake Brown is better than your front news headlines and a must read. Don’’t wait for the movie, read the book.
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Zinzi
by Lynette Velasco
Reviewed by Heather Covington
Zinzi is about "a child's journey to self-fulfillment, giving and caring" by Lynette C. Velasco, that every parent and teacher must give as a gift to every child. Pride, respect and dignity overwhelm each page that interchangeably illustrates and radiates with Zinzi's discovery of her ancestral past roots as a queen in Egypt. You'll particularly fancy the illustrative references throughout this magnificent book that engulf responsibility from the young character, Zinzi, and as she wears full safety gear while skating down the streets of her barren neighborhood one day.
Her feelings of un-fulfillment in noticing a changed environment leads her to entertain herself and bring life to her neighborhood. The picture of her jumping in front of the setting sun is breathtaking. Later on, you can feel her emotions while she stands gazing over her family while they are engaged in communication at the table, and something many families do not entertain today. She is thinking back in time to when she was an African princess.
There's mother talking and laughing with Zinzi while stirring some hot tea after family time. You can just feel the warmness and smell the sweet aroma piping from this beautiful book that is deserving of a Caldecott Award. Reader's will be swept away when able to envision Zinzi reading a book about Egypt. You can feel her pride as she finally is able to reinvent herself as an African Princess among Carmen and Asi by reenacting a ceremony that children from 5 to 99 will enjoy.
Children who read this book will watch the young Zinzi become an African Princess right before their eyes, and are invited to eat a delicious array of her delicious yummy treats like Banana Milkshake, Orange Julius, Apple Sauce, Fruit Salad, Carrot Cake, Cream Chees Frosting, Cream Cheese Fudge, Pumpkin Bread, Homemade Peanut Butter, Zinzi Punch, Frozen Peach Cubes, Sweet Popcorn Mix, Zinzi Toast, Three Quick & Easy Dips and Baked Crisp Tortilla Chips, Banana- Strawberry Yogurt Smoothies and Breakfast Bread Puddings.
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