Book Review: Guilty By Association by Pat Simmons

Guilty By Association by Pat Simmons


Review by Tavares S. Carney

Now That We’ve Found Love

As a youngster, Kevin “Kidd” Jamieson grew up desiring, yet lacking, the dedication time and attention of a father. Having lived with his younger brother, Aaron, and mom, Sharon, Kidd faces a dramatic shift in the lifestyle he is accustomed to upon finally meeting his other siblings and extended family. Throughout the novel, readers will find Kidd facing many challenges. These challenges include deciphering between genuine love and acceptance versus guilt driven hand-outs, finding love, and feelings of obligation to his younger brother and mother and more.

When I first began the novel, I found Kidd to be a man acting like a kid, thinking that he needed to get out of his own way. I was happy when Kidd finally allowed his Jamieson family to step in, encouraging and motivating him to strive for more out of life. Initially, this arrangement was met with much opposition. I liked the way the author showed family dynamics of the Jamieson clan and, in my opinion, Ms. Simmons does a great job of allowing Kidd to wear his heart on his sleeve when it comes to his feelings of not having grown up with his biological father.

Other characters in the story, Grandma BB and Eve, provided comic relief and an emotional breakthrough, respectively. I often found myself laughing at Grandma BB and rooting for Kevin and Eve.

This is a good read and I would definitely consider another selection from this author.

Review by Tavares S. Carney

*Author solicited review.




For more on the author, please visit: http://www.patsimmons.net/

Book Review: Who's Afraid of Post-Blackness by Toure'

Who’s Afraid of Post-Blackness by Toure’


Review by Tavares S. Carney

“Rooted In, Not Restricted by Blackness”

I first learned about this book when a friend mentioned having picked it up to take along on her travels. Shortly after, I began seeing “tweets” from Goldie Taylor, a CNN correspondent, which further peaked interest. The tweets pertained to “eating watermelon at the Ritz.” I just had to learn for myself what the buzz was swarming around Toure’s Who’s Afraid of Post-Blackness.

During the Civil Rights era, there was a commonly understood meaning and acceptance of what it meant to be “black.” Post-civil rights era, what does being black really mean? Who’s Afraid of Post-Blackness delves into this thought-provoking subject matter; however, after reading it, I gather there is no definitive, unifying response to the question. Toure’s latest release embarks upon discovering possible answers and commencing the conversation of what it means to be black in America in today’s day and age. Obviously, being Black today is not the same as being Black in the 1950s and 1960s, even the early 1970s.

Toure’ moves that the definition of the Black culture is the “plasticity” amongst our individual belief systems, morals, values – in essence, you can’t put Black in a bottle, it is many, many things. One thing I carry with me personally after reading “Post-Blackness,” is that Blackness is a gamut of individual actions and reactions to the environment, society and the world in which we as Blacks navigate in present day. I am open to acceptance of the realization that Blackness is a constant change and can be dependent upon individuals themselves, timing, places, things and events.

Additionally, I am accepting of the fact, too, that everyone is not as accepting of this idea of “Post-Blackness.” For example, Toure’ discusses the “old perception” vs. the “new perception” of what it means to be black. Of course, times and circumstances are not the exact same as in the Civil Rights era. Many doors have been opened and many roads paved by those before us. Because of these very things, Black people today do not have the same issues; however, this is not to say there is no struggle. Present-day struggles of Black people are quite different. We know that racism still exists, just in more subtle ways. Let’s take climbing the corporate ladder for example - I so agree about the judgmental peers who critique a friend for “talking white.” Why does the friend have to be “talking white” as opposed to “speaking proper English” or “being professional?” I so felt this topic. Who is one group of Blacks to judge, or even another, on what Black is or is not. Blackness is many things.

Like the book says, “to maximize yourself as a human is to maximize your Blackness.”

I recommend this book to anyone interested in race relations, self-improvement or anyone who is developing relationships personally or professionally with people of color, including people of Caucasian descent. This is where the conversation begins.

Review by Tavares S. Carney

For more on the author, Toure', click here:

TOURE'

*No Compensation or Gift-In-Kind Received for this review.*

Eddie Connor: A Man on the Move - He's Purposefully Prepared to Persevere

Purposefully Prepared to Persevere by Eddie Connor

Review by Tavares S. Carney

Roadblocks vs. Detours

Purposefully Prepared to Persevere is an autobiographical testimony of author, Eddie Connor’s, personal journey from being diagnosed with a potentially terminal illness to the man he is today. Between the covers of Purposefully Prepared to Persevere, readers will learn who Eddie Connor was a boy, traveling with him as he shares the emotional, physical and spiritual transitions that transpired from then until now. He shares the diagnosis, the treatments, actions of friends and family and so much more. The best part about this book is that Eddie Connor shares what was going on in his mind, body and spirit at varying stages, from diagnosis to deliverance. Eddie is a very engaging writer, using language that is very relatable to youth and young adults. His words are very encouraging.

I recommend this book to readers who need inspiration after what seems like a life storm. Eddie explains, through his own account, how faith, positive thinking, healthy living and a positive environment all play a part in healing and overcoming.

About Eddie Connor

Eddie Connor was born in Southfield, Michigan but grew up in Kingston, Jamaica. The British Education that Eddie received during his formative years in Jamaica can be attributed to his thirst for knowledge. As a product of a divorced family, Eddie realizes that he was not born with a "silver spoon" in his mouth, but was raised by a strong mother, who instilled in him lifelong values and the importance of governing himself as a positive individual. His mother, Dr. Janice K. Connor (author of "Propelling Faith"), has been a missionary to Jamaica for the past twenty-five years, and has raised her son to be a standout man of excellence.

As an Author, Educator, Evangelist, Motivational Speaker, Poet, Radio and TV Host, Eddie Connor shares his story of overcoming cancer in his three books, "Purposefully Prepared to Persevere", "Collections of Reflections: Symphonies of Strength, Volumes 1-3", and "E.CON the ICON". Eddie encourages youth to overcome life's obstacles on his radio program, "Youth On The March" which broadcasts on AM 1500 WLQV (www.AM1500WLQV.com), every 2nd Saturday of each month, from 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. in Detroit, Michigan.

Today, the 20-something author, minister, inspirational speaker and amazing human being continues to share his triumphant story of how he made it to Hell and back.

For more on Eddie Connor, please visit EddieConnor.com.

Book Review: Inside Rain by Monique D. Mensah

Inside Rain by Monique D. Mensah



Amazon Rating: 4


Review by Tavares S. Carney


Voices and Visions

Author, Monique D. Mensah, delivers a gripping psychological thriller with her second novel, Inside Rain. After being witness to her mother’s cold-blooded murder, the emotional trauma suffered causes Rain to question voices of reason, all the while grappling to understand what actually happened the night her life changes forever.

Danny, Carmen, Gigi, Kyle and Jay Jay are interesting characters. I found Gigi and Kyle nurturing and genuinely concerned for Rain’s well-being, while “siblings” Danny and Carmen are the voices of reason Rain relies upon to help her deal with the loss of her mother. Jay Jay was a user and vindictive. I didn’t like him at all.

While reading this novel, I thought about the effects of traumatic experiences on young children and the importance of counseling early on. Counseling will, ideally, help children to manage emotions or deal with feelings more appropriately. Prevalent themes include sibling rivalry, multiple personality disorder, abuse, suicide, homosexuality/lesbianism and grief counseling.

I like the author’s writing style. Some of the scenes are so descriptive I could feel the raw emotions coming off the pages. The book read like a mystery for me. I wanted to know who killed Rain’s mother. Admittedly, I did have an inclination that Rain may have suffered from some type of psychological dysfunction, but I really had no idea just how serious. I was unable to figure things out for certain until the very end. I recommend this book to readers who love a good, fast-paced mystery.

Book Review: Beautiful Rage by Janaya Black

Beautiful Rage by Janaya Black
Amazon Rating: 4

Review by Tavares S. Carney

Inside the Minds

Janaya Black takes readers into the minds of women who kill in Beautiful Rage. Journalist, Vanessa Jackson, is on assignment, interviewing women of the Wayne County Correctional facility who want their stories heard.


I like the way Ms. Black shows us the difficulty faced by Vanessa Jackson. How can this journalist remain neutral if she finds herself able to identify with the women she interviews? Women who have killed. Vanessa’s primary interviewee, Dawn Langston, introduces supporting characters Detective Jones and Ross Styler, who all add elements to the story that keeps readers wanting to know what happens with each of them next.

This novella deals with themes of pre-judging others, taking justice into one’s own hands, spirituality, the justice system and legal corruption. Beautiful Rage is a page turner that stimulates readers to examine situations from all angles before rushing to judgment or leaping into action.

I would consider other offerings by this author.

Review by Tavares S. Carney

Book Review: Till You Hear From Me by Pearl Cleage

Till You Hear From Me by Pearl Cleage
Amazon Rating: 5

Review by Tavares S. Carney

Different Road, Same Destination

Only child to a stern, know-it-all, old-school civil rights pastor emeritus, and an ultra-feminist mother, Ida B. Wells Dunbar finds her way, and herself, in this tale of old school vs. new school, family and politics.


Post-Obama campaign, Ida hopes to land a position working in the White House, especially after she and her father have worked so hard to help President Obama become elected. The challenge begins when the parent and child dynamic is rocked for differences of opinion, casual outbursts, media frenzy and people with alternative motives.

I particularly enjoyed the way Ms. Cleage wove themes of traditional and new ideologies, politics, community and family into this story. Some of the issues I found myself pondering while reading this selection were the emotional struggles an aging generation may face in passing responsibilities to a younger generation, and acceptance of new technologies and ways of doing things; the level to which some will go for the almighty dollar - greed; and, the importance of not only family, but the well-being of the community and the nation as a whole.

The characters in the story made it even more interesting. I found one of the characters, Miss Ionia, to be very direct, and she even made me laugh a few times. She was my favorite. I read this selection in 2 days, wanting to know what happened next and to finally get to the bottom of the mystery. I recommend this selection and will definitely consider other titles authored by Ms. Cleage.

Review by Tavares S. Carney

BOOK REVIEW: An Inconvenient Friend by Rhonda McKnight

An Inconvenient Friend by Rhonda McKnight*
Reviewed by Tavares S. Carney
Amazon Rating: 4


Using What You Have to Get What You Want

The author of An Inconvenient Friend, Rhonda McKnight, brings gold-digging Samaria Jacobs back for Round 2. Samaria first arrived on the literary scene in Ms. McKnight’s debut novel, Secrets and Lies. In this offering, Samaria is up to her same conniving ways. Though this time around, Samaria’s plan is to win the man of her dreams by any means necessary, even if it means getting too close for comfort.


Highlighting major concerns that have the ability to either make or break a marriage, Ms. McKnight gives readers a story ripe with the marital issues of infidelity and fertility, as well as subplots of relationships amongst women in the church, drug abuse, as well as familial financial dependency and emotional abuse. This story will cause readers to ruminate existing relationships, and to possibly even consider what they would do in any of the given scenarios presented - at work, at church or at home.


The messages conveyed throughout the novel are the importance of a strong, committed relationship with God, the importance of communication, and truth and honesty in marriage. An additional subplot involving Samaria’s relationship with her own mother caused me to have just a tad bit of empathy for Samaria. A part of me wanted to understand her need for attention – albeit from the wrong people for the wrong reasons. Can faith and forgiveness heal a mighty blow?


I look forward to future offerings from Ms. McKnight.


Reviewed by Tavares S. Carney

*Advance Reading Copy provided by author.

Book Review: Faith by Michelle Larks

Faith by Michelle Larks*
Reviewed by Tavares S. Carney
Amazon Rating: 5

Through Thick and Thin

Author, Michelle Larks, invites readers into the lives of Monet and Marcus Caldwell, a middle-aged happily married couple, whose years of fertility woes have left the couple feeling hopeless of ever being able to conceive a child. Just when everything seems to be going well for the couple otherwise, Monet and Marcus’ world is rocked by a devastating turn of events. Shortly after, Monet discovers she is with child.

The particular chain of events occurring about the same time as Monet’s conception arouse the issue of paternity, which threatens to tear the Caldwell’s marriage apart. With friends Liz and Wade, as well as Reverend Wilcox, by their side to support the couple through their tribulation, the Caldwell’s manage to work through their individual beliefs, exercising varying degrees of faith.

This was an interesting read for me. I empathized with both primary characters - Monet, as a mother who believed she would never conceive and Marcus, as a man feeling torn between his wife and feeling forced to love a child that may not be his own flesh and blood. I was very interested in learning how things would pan out between Monet and Marcus and was quite pleased with the story’s ending.

I will definitely consider future offerings from Ms. Larks.

Reviewed by Tavares S. Carney

*Review copy provided by author.

Blog Tour Feature: Dreams That Won't Let Go by Stacy Hawkins Adams

About the Book

Indigo Burns is excited. Her wedding preparations to the man of her dreams are underway, her photography career is a success, and her family seems to be doing better than ever—all except her brother Reuben, who nobody has seen in years. But that’s about to change.
When Reuben decides to move back home to Jubilant, Texas, he hopes to find healing with his sisters. But Indigo isn’t so sure their relationship can be mended. And when younger sister Yasmin makes a life-altering choice, it seems like only a miracle can put the Burns family back together.
Will these siblings – and the rest of their family - ever be able to love unconditionally and release each other to live their dreams?


Review
Dreams That Won’t Let Go by Stacy Hawkins Adams

Reviewed by Tavares S. Carney

Amazon Rating: 4


Hold On Just A Little While Longer
This novel, Dreams That Won’t Let Go by Stacy Hawkins Adams, is the final offering from Ms. Adams’ Jubilant Soul trilogy. While this book does stand alone, it is with great pleasure that I am happy to have read installment one, The Someday List. Interestingly enough, without having read installment two of the series, Worth A Thousand Words, I was able to pick right back up with the ongoings of the Burns family. In Dreams That Won’t Let Go, the Burns clan grapples with issues that each has been holding within. Grateful to the grandparents who raised them, the three Burns children, Reuben, Indigo and Yasmin, can not help but to wonder if somehow their dreams have been deferred.
As Reuben, Indigo and Yasmin face their fears, they hope to one day realize their dreams, and to have the kind of family they each long for. After a more recent upheaval, and with the aid of the supporting characters, Peyton, Reuben’s wife, and Max, Indigo’s fiancee', as well as Pastor Taylor, the Burns family struggles to overcome pain and hurt that has festered for years.
I enjoyed reading this selection. The characters are well-developed, and believable. I recommend this selection to parents afraid to let go and let God and any reader that enjoys inspirational selections.

Reviewed by Tavares S. Carney
*Book provided by Baker Publishing


About the Author

Stacy Hawkins Adams is a nationally-published, award-winning author and speaker. Her contemporary women’s fiction novels are filled with social themes and spiritual quests that take readers on journeys into their own souls.

She holds a degree in journalism and served as a newspaper reporter for more than a decade before turning her full attention to penning books, speaking professionally and writing freelance articles.
Stacy lives in a suburb of Richmond, Virginia with her husband and two young children. Visit Stacy online at stacyhawkinsadams.com.

Dreams That Won’t Let Go GIVEAWAY!

WIN a set of signed books from the Jubilant Soul Series AND a free one-hour session with Helena Nyman, an executive coach.
Answer the following question in the comment section to be eligible for the giveaway.
What dreams are simmering in your heart and waiting to be birthed?
Visit the full blog tour schedule and read an excerpt at http://bit.ly/DreamsThatWontLetGo

Celebrate Black History Month w/ A Good Children's Book!

 

Just Call Me Joe Joe by Jean Alicia Elster

Amazon Rating: 5

Just Call Me Joe Joe by Jean Alicia Elster is a very quick, informative and entertaining read. The first of a 3-book series, this title is the story of Joe Joe, an African-American boy who loves to read. In this particular selection, Joe Joe is introduced to the world of the Negro Baseball League. While this book is informative from a historical perspective, the storyline also affords children lessons about hygiene, materialism, and meeting adversity.

Just Call Me Joe Joe is also illustrated very well. The pictures are very helpful for ELL students. I highly recommend this selection for a Black History children’s selection, or just to add to any school or library bookshelf.

Review by Tavares S. Carney

Book Review: Wench by Dolen Perkins-Valdez

Wench by Dolen Perkins-Valdez
Amazon Rating: 5
Reviewed by Tavares S. Carney

A Fine Line of Favor

Dolen Perkins-Valdez delivers the gripping tale of primary characters, Lizzy, Reenie, Sweet and Mawu's, lives as slave maids and mistresses during the mid-19th century. Although from separate southern plantations, the mistresses vacation with their white masters to a free-state resort in Ohio each summer, forming a sisterly bond and developing relationships with each other.

Suffering emotional, physical and sexual abuse at the hands of their "owners," the women grow weary, often dreaming of their and their children's freedom. While each of the women has a unique relationship with her respective master, Lizzy, Reenie, Sweet and Mawu share the bond of slavery and mistreatment. Despite the seeming perks each wench receives over all the other slaves at their home plantations, each woman still finds herself living in misery. This story brings readers into the heart-wrenching decisions, painstaking moments and emotional turmoil endured by each of the women as they struggle to save themselves spiritually, physically and emotionally. They walk a fine line of favor with their masters. Should the women stay, or should they run, when the opportunity is staring them right in the face?

This story is unlike any other story I've read about slave women and children. Yes, I've heard the stories and knew these type things happened but never have I been drawn into the minds of the women that have lived this life. Themes of particular interest to me while reading this story were the relationship between the master's wife, Fran, and Lizzy. Lizzy's character is also of the most interest to me in that she was quite indecisive. I understood her indecision. I felt these women's pain and suffering. I also acknowledge the author's underlying message of the possible cause and evolvement of black-on-black prejudices.
After reading this story, I am even more deeply appreciative of the women before me. They suffered tremendously and if it weren't for them I would not be living the life I am today. Any time you read a story and you feel the emotions jumping from the pages, you've got a page turner. The history behind the Tawawa House and what the land is actually used for today is also quite interesting. I would have never known had I not read this book.

Based on this novel, I would read a second offering from Ms. Perkins-Valdez.

Book Review: Secrets and Lies by Rhonda McKnight

Secrets and Lies by Rhonda McKnight
Reviewed by Tavares S. Carney
Amazon Rating: 4

Communication is Key

In author, Rhonda McKnight’s, debut novel, Secrets and Lies, Ms. McKnight does a superb job bringing readers into the lives of the Dr. Jonah and Faith Morgan, a well-to-do married couple that endures tribulations stemming from Faith’s perceived selfishness and Jonah’s work ethic and ailing heart.

This story is very interesting to me because not only does the author offer a real-world storyline suggestive of marital issues, she offers plausible solutions. The primary characters in this story, Jonah and Faith, face marital challenges such as inattentiveness, time management and lack of communication. Readers will learn firsthand what brings each of these characters to make the decisions they make and act in the ways that each does. I also appreciate Ms. McKnight touching upon the subject of sexual harassment in the workplace and how things are not always as they seem.

Through various scenarios set against a medical field back drop, Jonah and Faith are brought together to face and meet many challenges. Will their love survive?

I recommend this book to anyone experiencing marital issues. Reading it may give readers a glimmer of hope in learning and knowing that with God, all things are possible. I also recommend this book to married men and women, and even single individuals thinking of marriage not experiencing difficulty in their relationships. This selection is a reinforcement of the reality of the trials and tribulations of some marriages, as well as what it takes to sustain in a marriage.

I would definitely read another selection from Ms. McKnight.

For more on the author, please visit her @ RHONDA McKNIGHT.

Reviewed by Tavares S. Carney

Book Review: Farther Than I Meant to Go Longer Than I Meant To Stay by Tiffany Warren

Review by Tavares S. Carney

Amazon Rating: 4

Warning Signs

Have you ever met an intelligent woman who carries herself with dignity and class, and who seemingly has it all but one piece of the puzzle - a man by her side? In Farther Than I Meant To Go, this woman is Charmayne Ellis, a successful banking executive who allows her impatience and insecurity with her appearance to alter her decision-making when it comes to Travis Moon. Travis is the polar opposite of Charmayne. However, the two still find themselves in a whirlwind romance.

This is the classic story of a woman settling and not listening to her inner spirit. Charmayne, being an active church member, deals with issues of spirituality and desperation in this novel. Supporting characters Travis, Lynette, First Lady Jenkins, Dr. King, Dayna and Charmayne's mother, offer readers a glimpse into and will cause them to evaluate how the people in Charmayne's life actions may have directly, or indirectly, influenced Charmayne's decisions. Pressure from friends to hurry and marry, to familial strains and being deceived, Charmayne grapples with relying on her faith for all the answers she needs.

This book did begin at a slower pace than my preference but midway through I became thoroughly engaged in Charmayne's story, yearning to know how she would rise again or even if she would. There are a lot of good lessons in this selection and I recommend this book to all women who feel like they have waited long enough. Patience is a virtue. You definitely do not want to go farther than you mean to or stay longer than you want to when it's something or someone not good for you.



For more on Tiffany Warren, click here.

Book Review: Watch Your Back by Lisa Watson

Review by Tavares S. Carney

Amazon Rating: 4

Keep Your Friends Close and Your Enemies Closer

This is a story of money, power, love, trust, family and friends. Author, Lisa Watson, weaves a tale of deception from the very outset of the novel. The Mitchell family is loaded and it seems that more than one person is out to harm the heir to the Mitchell fortune. Through several events, Devon, the only male heir to the Mitchell fortune, will learn just who he can trust. Will Devon allow pains of the past to stop him from having a future?

After a tragic event, Devon leaves town and leads a life not his norm. In a town where he thought he could escape the pain of this tragic event, Devon encounters more drama than a little bit in new love interest, Jayde Seaton. As Devon tries to rid himself of guilt he has carried for a while, he is on a mission to figure out strange happenings around him. An emotional wreck, will Devon find new and lasting love amidst all the turmoil surrounding him?

Supporting characters, Candace, Devon's parents, Sterling and Avalon Mitchell, Uncle Henry and Xavier, offer readers good subplots that add to the main storyline. This selection is a good offering from Ms. Watson. The book did start a little slow for me but after the storyline accelerated, I did become more engaged, wanting to know how things panned out. Overall, it was a good read.



Click here for more on author, Lisa Watson.

Feature Book and Author: Til Debt Do Us Part by Michelle Larks

Making It Work

Review by Tavares S. Carney

‘Til Debt Do Us Part by Michelle Larks is the story of Nichole Baldwin-Singleton, a seemingly once spoiled, little rich girl whose inheritance has not afforded her experiences of financial hardship, and her husband Jeff, whose childhood is a total contrast to that of Nichole’s. Jeff knows all too well about financial hardships and is determined to make sure he, nor his family, ever has to travel that road.

Suffering from a gambling addiction, Nichole and Jeff’s relationship is pushed to the limit when Nichole risks almost everything the couple has to feed her addiction. Jeff, on the other hand, also has a few secrets of his own. When all comes to light and through various tragedies and triumphs, Nichole and Jeff realize that keeping God first, communication and forgiveness are key ingredients to making their marriage last. Supporting characters Eveline Baldwin, Maya and Pastor Dudley add a delightful mix to the story. The girls in the book club were also entertaining.

The author’s story progression worked well for me. I was happy to see that love conquers all in this novel. Positive elements of familial ties and friendship were prevalent throughout. Nichole and Jeff learn how to balance and complement each other, ultimately “making it work.”

Review by Tavares S. Carney

For more on the author: Michelle Larks

Book Review: Secret Daughter by June Cross

This memoir is a very interesting look into what it was like growing up for June Cross, daughter of aspiring white actress, Norma Booth, and well known black comedian, James "Stump" Cross. Secret Daughter delves into what is was like for a young June growing up, sometimes in two completely different worlds, and trying to find herself and more about herself and her parents. This novel takes us through June's adolescence and college years, on into adulthood and the present. June learns some lessons on her own, but is often persuaded to make choices other children or people do not have to make. Although June started out sometimes having to deny herself and even her kinships, I was happy to see that she fully accepts who she is now. I was happy June got all the answers she searched for for a lifetime, and especially the fact that she was able to reconcile her emotions with her mother and her father.

Book Review: Serving Justice by Jacqueline D. Moore

Serving Justice by Jacqueline D. Moore

Review by Tavares S. Carney

Amazon Rating: 3

Pain and Pride

Meet smart, sassy and successful legal professionals and friends, Angela, Theresa, Darlene and Rhonda, in Jacqueline D. Moore’s latest release, Serving Justice. These friends meet in college and become more like family over the span of approximately 20 years. This offering gives us the opportunity to experience a whirlwind weekend that threatens to destroy the ladies’ bond. In Serving Justice, Judge Angela Jenkins has loved her chauffeur, Tony, for awhile. She’s never shared her feelings with her friends or anyone else. She fears the scrutiny of colleagues, friends and others.

Judge Jenkins decides to break the ice, asking Tony to escort her to a public function where her girlfriends would be in attendance. Angela’s high-powered girlfriends all but lose it after finding out Tony is not only their girl’s chauffer, he’s a cab driver. The ladies’ friendship and Angela’s relationship with Tony is seriously threatened after.

I appreciated the balance in personalities in this circle of friends, from Angie’s eventual willingness to risk it all and not live according to societal expectations, to Darlene’s commitment to her career and assertive disposition. The novel for me was really about Angela, Theresa, Darlene and Rhonda, examining themselves and the way they see others. I was also rooting for things to turn out well for Angela and Tony.

I enjoyed this novel. It really held my interest. The character development was on point for me. I enjoyed getting to know each of the ladies, and Tony. Jacqueline Moore’s style of writing allows readers to experience each character’s pain and pride.

Review by Tavares S. Carney

Book Review: That Devil's No Friend of Mine by J.D. Mason

Review by Tavares S. Carney

What Lies Beneath

Author, J.D. Mason, brings readers into the lives of characters Kristine Fontaine, Lamar and Rhonda, Cole and Nora, Rayne, T. Diggs, and Cash. That Devil’s No Friend of Mine is a story of a trail of secrets, lies and family ties left behind by a strong-willed man, Bishop Fontaine, with convictions that influenced his family and those he cared for to still be concerned with what he’d think of them and their actions, even after his death.

Upon Bishop’s passing, the author weaves a tale with characters whose lives are, unknowingly, intertwined by Bishop Fontaine. Kristine, Bishop’s only child, is the heiress to a million-dollar business owned by her father and family-friend, Lamar. Kristine’s vulnerability and innocence is tucked away when she finds new life in being able to make her own decisions, as well as come to terms with secrets of the past. Finding new love in Tauris Diggs helps Kristine to process her emotions, deal with her past and face the future. Supporting characters, Cole and Nora, Cash and Rayne add a twist to the story by offering subplots of volatile marriage and drug addiction.

The novel is a relatively fast-read. I did want to know what would happen next. I did close the novel, however, with a sense of not knowing if I was happy with the ending, only because I’d like to know how things turn out for Kristine and T. Diggs. Then again, that’s what sequels are for.

I liked this story. It read well for me and I would definitely consider other titles by this author.

Review by Tavares S. Carney

Writtenvoices.com Book Review: The List by Sherri Lewis

The List by Sherri Lewis

Reviewed by Tavares S. Carney

The List by Sherri Lewis is the tale of best girlfriends, Michelle, Angela, Lisa, Vanessa and Nicole, on a search for “The One”. All but one of the group has experienced what she believes to be intimate love and the loss that occurs as a result of the relationship ending.

This novel has a storyline that is sure to appeal to women waiting for their perfect mate. With true-to-life characters, and a rawness that is sure to speak volumes to some readers, the author does a good job with her character development and plot, inviting us into the world of these girlfriends, their struggles, as well as their triumphs, as they search for “The One.” Read more

Written Voices Book Review: Talk to Me by Pat Simmons

Talk to Me by Pat Simmons

Reviewed by Tavares S. Carney

In the novel Talk to Me by Pat Simmons, the author introduces readers to Noel Richardson, an independent, wealthy and spiritual businessman with strong family values. His only perceived setback, and to varying degrees, according to supporting characters Mackenzie and Valerie, is Noel’s inability to hear. The author intertwines themes of faith and equal opportunity as the main character deals with challenges of acceptance, societal inclusion and developing even keel relationships. Read More