I read this book on the way to my last job interview. And I got the job. Now, I'm not saying that I was successful by being a bitch, but being in touch with my needs and goals was certainly a help. This humorous look at why women don't get what they need and want uses cartoons by Nicole Hollander (Sylvia) to illustrate strategies for "getting over toxic niceness" and saying what you really mean. Perhaps the world would be a nicer place if we all stopped fretting over the "B" word.
My Review:
Anybody that knows me knows that I am way too nice. I saw this book and knew I needed to read it! Anything that I can read to help me become a better person is what I am interested in right now! If you are a person who is too nice and try to be as agreeable and nice as you can all the time, you need to read this book!
"Eventually, I manifested all the Niceness I could, bending over backwards to be agreeable, helpful, thoughtful, adoring, and adorable--in other words, a complete dormat." (loc. 128)
This is totally me. I hate conflict and I always try to do everything I can to make someone else happy, even if it means putting my feelings aside. The author in this book realized that she was suffering from toxic niceness, and it was when she was dealing with a man. She got stood up and she was mad, but then she started making up all these excuses to give him the benefit of the doubt. She just knew he must have been seeing another woman (he said "something came up"), but he was so cute and she really liked him so she forgave him. After all "no one likes a bitch. How could a nice girl like me stay angry? He asked me for another chance and I gave it to him." (loc 146).
I highlighted so many things in this book. It was so full of great information! The biggest thing is to learn to say "I don't think so". It's so easy to just agree with everything even if you don't want to. That way you avoid any hurt feelings. It's just easier to get along with everyone. This book is showing me that I don't have to get along with everyone. I have my whole life ahead of me and there is no reason why I should let any part of my life be unhappy. Now, the real trick will be putting this into practice!
PLEASE NOTE: I HAVE A NEW BLOG AT http://blackdiamondsbookreviews.com/
Please visit that blog to see recent posts, as I do not regularly post to this blog anymore.
This week I have the pleasure of bringing Author Daddy Rich to Black Diamond's Book Reviews!
Monday: Review of Mack's Revenge
Tuesday: Excerpt from Mack's Revenge
Wednesday: Interview with Author Daddy Rich
Thursday: Win an E-book of Mack's Revenge!
Friday: Week Overview
(I originally reviewed this book in December of 2010)
THIS IS WHAT'S UP!! - READ THIS BOOK AND YOU WILL SEE!
This is the story of "Big Mac" whose real name is Richard D McVickers. Big Mac is a rapper, a real estate agent and a drug dealer.
“I got 8 kids 6 baby mommas - 1 baby by each - and I got 2 stepsons with my wife Tanisha. I love them niggaz as my own. “ (p.2)
Richard "Big Mac" gets locked up and is held for attempted murder, criminal confinement, obstruction of justice, intimidation with a deadly weapon, and tampering with a state’s witness, (p.72). When he is being questioned, Detective Reece asked him about the Mexican's he has been dealing drugs with up north and he says
"Look, the dude’s name Up North is Kristopher - with a K- older white dude in his fifties. Pale, fat as hell with a white beard. I only met him once,” I said. “O.K. Kristopher what? What’s his full name?” “Kris um, Kringle, Kristopher Kringle.” “I thought your connection was Mexican. Kris Kringle sounds English or something. Sounds familiar, though. How does it all work; what’s the operation? (p.79)
"Reese’s nostrils flared. “You made me look like a damn fool! Santa Claus? You tell me you been getting dope from Santa Claus?” I don’t like being laughed at.” He threw his interview notes at me. (p.82)
As you can see, there is a lot of humor in this book. I was laughing out loud in some spots!
Meanwhile, his girlfriend Becky is out shopping and spending Mac's money. He calls her and needs bail money. He acts all fine about her spending money, and she thinks he is going to be pissed. He is pissed, but he needs her to bail him out and take care of his business. Becky seems like all she cares about is Mac's money. Yeah, Mac got himself into some trouble. If she is gonna be with him, she needs to support him.
Oh yeah, and there is some hot and heavy sex too.
"Y’all ain’t gonna believe what happened next! This b***h walked around her desk, sat on it, spread her legs wide open, and snapped her fingers and pointed to her p**sy (p.94)"
I was glad that his sister introduced him to her friend Tanisha. Tanisha seemed like a sweet girl and Mac really liked her. He had a lot of women, but I really felt in my heart that Tanisha was the one for him and he would always be true to her.
You need to read this book to find out what goes down, but I have to tell you that Mac gets locked up again and was set up by the drug task force. It pisses me off that he was set up. He was locked up in 2005 and is still locked up to this day. He was convicted of a crime that he was never actually charged with. This is a true life story (except for him killing anyone and escaping). He really wants to get across to the readers that he knows that he made some bad choices and drugs are not the way to go, but there are some people out there that just will do anything to better themselves, even if it means setting someone up to benefit themselves.
I loved the writing. It's totally a gangster book and he doesn't try and change the wording. He says it like it is. This book really opened my eyes to the gangster world. The sex scenes were off the chain!
I really hope that he can get out and be with his wife and kids and get his rap career rolling!
Disclaimer: I received this e-book direct from the author. I was not compensated for my review. My thoughts on this book were in no way influenced by the author or publicist. They are my personal reflections based solely on MY experience while reading this novel.
The year is 2023 and ex-detective Lara Evans is working as a freelance paramedic in a bleak new world. She responds to an emergency call and is nearly killed when a shooter flees the home. Inside she finds the federal employment commissioner wounded, but she’s able to save his life.
The next day Lara leaves for the Gauntlet—a national competition of intense physical and mental challenges with high stakes for her home state. She spots the shooter lurking at the arena and soon after, she lands in deep trouble. Who is the mysterious assailant and what is motivating him kill? Can Lara stop him, stay alive, and win the Gauntlet?
My Review:
The Three Reasons Review is a simple way to get your thoughts out there about a book. The reasons are as follows complete with fancy button:
1.) Reasons you chose this book
I liked the cover. It looked like a mysterious book which I love!
2.) Reasons you liked or disliked this book
I liked this book because it kind of reminded me of survivor and The Hunger Games (parts of the story). I don't really watch survivor that much, but I loved The Hunger Games.
I liked this book because it was interesting to see how Paul was going to do the tasks that he set out to do. He was in another aspect of the story (not the one above).
I liked how Paul was a memorable character. He did something that ended up going his way, but then he got a little greedy. I would have like to see a picture of the transformation that was described in this book.
Based on my last like, I would say that this book would be a great movie. For some reason, I would say that the parts would be played by Steve Carell. I don't know why, but he is who I pictured for Paul. Maybe its the fact that he is a "frumpy programmer". Also between his character on The 40 Year Old Virgin and The Office, I just had him sticking in my mind. Although Paul in this book is devious and I don't really see that in Steve Carell, but you never know! I guess the reason I see him is because Paul seems nerdy and like a lost puppy. I feel bad for Paul because he just wants to be accepted. I am not sure who would play Lara. I'm seeing a redhead, maybe. I am going to Google redheaded actresses and see what I see. I found her: Julianne Moore. She is the one.
Okay, this is supposed to be a book review, but now I am thinking movie. Obviously I liked the book enough think that people would pay to see this story on the big screen. There was enough action to it and I wanted to see if Lara would win the game and what was going to happen with Paul.
I liked this book because there were no errors in it.
I'm trying to think of why I disliked this book and I'm really not coming up with anything. It took me a while to read, but it's because of lack of time and not lack of interest in the book. Actually, I was supposed to post my review a few weeks ago and I missed it. I feel so bad, but I'm finally getting it up on here.
3.) Reasons you are recommending this book
I recommend this book because it has two different stories within one and they tie in at the end.
Rating:
Format: Kindle Edition
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0983213852
Publisher: Spellbinder Press (August 12, 2011)
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
Language: English
ASIN: B005H7Q0AA
Lending: Enabled
Source: L.J. Sellers (Thank you!!!!!)
L.J. Sellers
L.J. Sellers is an award-winning journalist and the author of the bestselling Detective Jackson mystery/suspense series: The Sex Club, Secrets to Die For, Thrilled to Death, Passions of the Dead, and Dying for Justice. Her novels have been highly praised by Mystery Scene, Crimespree, and Spinetingler magazines, and the series is on Amazon Kindle’s bestselling police procedural list. L.J. also has three standalone thrillers: The Baby Thief, The Suicide Effect, and The Arranger. When not plotting murders, she enjoys performing standup comedy, cycling, social networking, and attending mystery conferences. She’s also been known to jump out of airplanes.
L.J. Sellers Interview
About THE ARRANGER:
Cheryl: How did you come up with the title THE ARRANGER?
L.J.: One of the main characters, Paul Madsen, is given access to federal personnel information that he can’t resist exploiting. He uses the information to arrange for clients to land new, better jobs and for some employees to lose theirs. I started thinking of him as the arranger and the name stuck. My husband loved the title too and encouraged me to use it.
Cheryl: Is there a message in the book that you want readers to get?
L.J.: The broad idea is that the United States could end up in a dark and ugly place if social and economic issues continue the way they’re going. The other theme is that there are people in this world we look right past, because they’re shy or unattractive, but those people have feelings and value, and they want attention just like the rest of us.
Cheryl: Are any parts of THE ARRANGER realistic?
L.J.: The entire story is realistic. It’s the only kind of fiction I write. It has elements that are imaginative, such as medical inventions that aren’t on the horizon yet and a national competition with jobs as the grand prize. But all of those things could easily come true. The story isn’t paranormal, sci-fi, or fantasy. It’s a gritty, realistic look at the future.
Cheryl: Did you have a favorite character in THE ARRANGER, and why did you like that character?
L.J.: The story is told predominantly from two characters’ perspectives, Lara Evans and Paul Madsen. Lara is a homicide investigator/paramedic from my Detective Jackson series, and she had a major role in my last novel, Dying for Justice. I had so much fun writing from her perspective that I knew she needed her own story, in which she could be as physical as she wanted to be. She’s definitely my favorite character in The Arranger.
About Writing In General:
Cheryl: How do you begin writing a book? Do you start with an outline? Do you hand write anything or type it out?
L.J.: I write exclusively on my computer, and I usually start each story with some broad ideas. I eventually develop and write out what I call the story logic—all the character motivations, connections, and events. (Lara responds to an emergency call, witnesses a crime, and meets the commissioner. She keeps his secret because he controls the Gauntlet, a contest she is scheduled to compete in.) I include incidents in the backstory and even the events that don’t happen on the page where the reader can see them. This process ensures my plot doesn’t have any gaping holes that make readers think: WTF? Next, I start outlining, usually by day of the week, because my stories all take place in a short period of time. About halfway through the outline, I start writing the first chapter because I’m eager to get started or because I come up with a good opening. I keep outlining the second half as I write .
Cheryl: Do you have a certain writing style?
L.J.: Because my background is in journalism, I tend to write lean and my prose is straightforward. I focus on clarity and immediacy rather than on creating lush or lyrical prose. Many readers have commented that my storytelling style is unique and compelling, but they haven’t really articulated what the style is.
Cheryl: Are any of your books based on things that you have experienced in your life or the life of someone you know?
L.J.: I draw from my life and my family members lives all the time. For example, Wade Jackson, from my detective series, has a trike-building hobby like my husband, and he also has a rare health issue like my husband. Both of those elements are unusual and make Jackson an interesting character. In Passions of the Dead, I wrote about unemployment and economic issues, and I drew from experiences that my extended family members were going through. So far, I haven’t written stories that focus on the most painful phases in my personal life because it would be too stressful. (Some day, when I’m old and medicated, I’ll probably write a memoir and tell everything.) Still, all of my female characters have elements of my personality and they share my life experiences, such as grief, addiction, food/weight issues, layoffs, etc.
Cheryl: Do you have any rituals that you use when you are writing or a certain place you go to get inspired?
L.J. I’m not a ritualistic person but I do exercise faithfully every day. During my workout sessions, I often brainstorm plots and usually get my best ideas while I’m in cardio mode. I’ve never really experienced writers block. I think it’s my journalism background that has trained me to get words on the page, no matter what. For me, writing is craft and my occupation. I don’t wait to be inspired. I work my brain until I have the right collection of ideas, then I sit down and do it.
Cheryl: How many books have you written?
L.J.: I’ve written ten and a half novels, with eight of them now on the market. My first two were practice novels, both about serial killers, and neither will ever be published. I also abandoned one novel halfway through when my agent said he didn’t like it. I may eventually dig it out and finish it. That agent didn’t like The Sex Club either, and it became a bestseller on Kindle. I also just released a nonfiction book that’s a collection of blogs, articles, and writing advice—called Write First, Clean Later, my personal motto. In addition, I’ve written five screenplays, three of which are comedies.
Cheryl: Did you have to do much research when writing your books? If so, do you tend to write first or research first?
L.J.: Before this one, my last five books were police procedurals, and over the years I’ve interviewed several homicide detectives, a crime scene technician, a medical examiner, and a SWAT sergeant. For the first two Jackson stories, I conducted the interviews before I started writing because I felt like I had to. For the last two in the series, I started writing and waited until I knew specifically what I needed to ask to make certain scenes authentic. For The Baby Thief, a standalone thriller, I did extensive research into fertility science throughout the writing of the story. My current release, The Arranger, is set in the future, so there wasn’t much I could research, except self-defense techniques.
Cheryl: What advice would you give to those aspiring writers out there?
L.J.: For writers just getting started, I advise them to study the craft. Read Writers Digest and take writing workshops. For writers who’ve been at it a while and know they have a professional product, I would advise them to take charge of their publishing career and get their work out there independently. For writers who have already published and are struggling to build a readership, be tenacious and patient. It will happen.
About Your Reading:
Cheryl: Are you reading anything right now?
L.J.: I’m reading a collection of short stories called Shaken. It’s written by a terrific group of authors, and the proceeds go to help the tsunami victims in Japan.
Cheryl: What are some of your favorite books and authors?
L.J.: Two of my all-time favorite books are futuristic thrillers: The Tomorrow File by Lawrence Sanders and The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood. My current favorite authors are Michael Connelly, John Sandford, and Harlen Coben. Two of the best crime fiction books I’ve read recently are Beat the Reaper by Josh Bazell (about a hit man who becomes a doctor!) and The Lock Artist by Steve Hamilton (about a psychologically mute safecracker). Both were very compelling.
Cheryl: Has writing your own book changed the way that you read?
L.J.: Unfortunately, yes. The more I write the less I read. It’s the worst thing about being a novelist. I also worked as an editor for decades, and I trained my brain to read slowly and carefully, looking for errors. I have trouble turning that off, and it tends to ruin a lot of stories for me.
Cheryl: Are you able to read when you’re writing and if so what books inspire you when you’re working on a novel?
L.J.: When I’m writing a first draft, I tend to read short stories. Not only do I love the genre, they also work well with my limited attention span for reading. Because I write crime stories, I’m often inspired by what I see in the news. I’m a news junkie, and real crime is a great source of fodder for my work.
Cheryl: Are there other books you love or writers you admire that are from your local area?
L.J.: Locally, I’m friends with Carola Dunn, who writes the Daisy Dalrymple mysteries. She writes historical fiction, which I don’t read, but I admire her productivity and skill, and I know she has fans around the world. I’m also friends with Marva Dasef, a terrific Eugene writer, who I have read and enjoyed.
Personal Information:
Cheryl: If you have to describe yourself with one word, what would it be?
L.J.: Energetic.
Cheryl: I see that you were born in California, also lived in Phoenix, but spent most of your life in Oregon. What is it like there? Is that your favorite place to live?
L.J.: I love Eugene, Oregon. It’s beautiful (green), and is both intellectually stimulating and laid back at the same time. I wish it were warmer, but you can’t have everything. Phoenix, on the other hand, was quite warm, but it’s an ugly city that extends for 70 miles in the desert. After living most of my life in Oregon, Phoenix never felt like home. I hope to someday have a winter home in Maui. J
Cheryl: What is a typical day in your life like?
L.J.: Busy! I get up around six, read some news online, do a little promotion, then do an hour workout. After that, I may do more promotion (blogs, emails, press releases), or if I’m working on a first draft, I’ll start writing around ten. I usually write until five, with a break for lunch and maybe an afternoon bike ride or walk. After dinner I go back to work and do whatever is most pressing on my to-do list. It could be answering emails, working on my webs: ite, writing a guest blog, or a zillion other things. I’m usually at my computer until nine-thirty or ten. Then I read or watch TV for an hour or so. Many days are interrupted by “rescue calls” from my extended family, and I always make time for them.
Cheryl: What three artists would I find in your Ipod or CD player?
L.J.: I like just about any music that makes me want to dance. But my favorites are an eclectic mix: Queen, Steve Winwood, Nickelback, KC and the Sunshine Band, James Brown, and Kid Rock, to name a few.
Cheryl: If I came to your home and looked in your refrigerator what would I find?
L.J.: Lots of fruits and vegetables, with lean protein in the freezer. I eat very little processed food, almost no wheat, and very little dairy. My two weaknesses are peppermint patties and popcorn, but I try to limit sugar too.
Cheryl: What is one food item that you can’t live without?
L.J.: Beef. I’m a protein burner and I feel best when I eat red meat, so I listen to my body. But my weight and my cholesterol counts are very healthy.
Cheryl: What is your favorite color?
L.J.: Purple!
Cheryl: What do you like to do when you are not writing (hobbies, etc.)?
L.J.: I love to ride my bike, and I also go bowling with my brothers quite often. I love comedy too, so we watch standup whenever we can. I’ve also performed standup comedy several times, and it’s great fun.
Cheryl: What is the one thing about yourself that others would be shocked to know?
L.J.: I’m very open, and readers can learn almost anything about me on my website. Sometimes people who have known me for a while are surprised to discover I have several small tattoos near my ankles. Some people might be surprised to learn that my first husband tried to kill me, and his dog saved my life. And others would be surprised to know that public speaking terrifies me. This surprises me as well, because I’m an extrovert.
Cheryl: What is next for you in 2011?
L.J.: I’m working on the sixth book in my Detective Jackson series, and it may be released as early as December.
Contact Information:
How can your readers contact you?
ljsellers.novelist@gmail.com
http://ljsellers.com
Cheryl: Is there anything you would like to add?
L.J.: Thank you very much for taking the time out to answer my interview questions!
Cheryl: Thank you very much for the interview!
Disclaimer: I was provided a review copy from the author (THANK YOU!) I was not compensated for my review. My thoughts on this book were in no way influenced by the author or publicist.They are my personal reflections based solely on MYexperience while reading this novel.
Some smiles reflect more than just good times, occasionally they are a mask for pain. Comedian Isaac Golden learns the bright lights of Hollywood may shine for triumph, but in the shadows, drugs, wild women, and the fast life are waiting to take their toll on his soul. With the health of his childrens' mother on the brink, a sex-crazed mistress on the side, the criminal woes of his inept younger brother, and increasing stage opportunities, trying to balance ambitions of stardom with reality is no laughing matter. When his faith and obligations are challenged beyond his control, Isaac realizes that overnight success can be tomorrow's biggest failure. He soon finds himself in a deep and dark hole, clueless how it all happened so fast. Will he have any friends and prayer left to help him overcome the guilt and remorse of his ways, or will time run out before he can truly discover: The Healing of Love and Laughter.
Book Trailer
My Review:
You will laugh, you will cry, and you will be so surprised at the end!
I really tried to like Isaac. He was really such a funny guy! He cracked jokes that will have you rollin'! He wanted his dream of being a star comedian to come true so bad that he lost sight of what was going on around him. His first priority was himself. I found Isaac to be a very selfish person after the story got going. Remember, at first I really liked him. His problem is though that he had a one track mind---being a comedian no matter what the price. He wasn't thinking of what his girlfriend needed or his girls. He was determined he was gonna make it big. He said:
"Comedy has to be the way, he affirmed. It has to be what God intended for us to have a better life! "p. 29
His girlfriend Janna is in very bad health. She said it's okay for him to go, so why not go right? She was so unselfish that she wanted him to pursue his dreams while she stayed home with their girls. Janna said:
"When the Lord works on anyone, it‘s never an overnight process," Janna explained. "Just because we want everything right here, right now, doesn‘t mean that‘s His plan. God‘s at work. I can feel it. You may not be able to see it from the outside lookin‘ in, but from the inside lookin‘ out, it‘s there. So I‘m not stressin‘ whether Isaac is changin‘. I‘m not stressin‘ the hospital tomorrow. I‘m just keepin‘ my life and faith in God‘s hands.".........."I just have to believe. Everything works in God‘s favor if we just believe." p.64
This book was fast paced and I read it in one day. I really got immersed in the story. I didn't always like what was happening or how it ended, but I was just determined that Isaac was going to realize what he was doing and God would make it all right. When he started into drugs, it was hard to like what he was doing to himself and his family. I was trying to be optimistic like Janna. I was so glad that finally Isaac brought God into his life and when he realized that God doesn’t take things from us or do bad things to us. We do that to ourselves. When the pastor in the church was saying the message and Isaac went up to him, that was when I got chills. I know that addiction can really mess up a family. The addict doesn't realize the harm it can cause themselves and others until sometimes it's just too late.
Well done Rickey Teems II! You made me laugh with your wonderful sense of humor that I love! You made me mad when you went from what I had hoped to what is more realistic. You made me get teary eyed when you showed what can happen when you only think about what you want vs. thinking about what your family needs. It really did make me really stop and think about prayer. I believe in the power of prayer. I know my prayers will be answered, but only if I am willing to make some changes too. You can't keep making bad choices and expect everything to just float happily along.
My Rating :
5/5 - Highly Recommend!
The Healing of Love & Laughter
Author: Rickey Teems II
Paperback
Publisher: NoGuile Books (November 11, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0983222622
ISBN-13: 978-0983222620
About Rickey Teems II
You can say whatever you want about religion, but know that this page is a testimony to God. I never had a desire to publish books; I never even imagined being an author! All that I have been blessed to accomplish can be directly linked to the unforgettable Easter Sunday in 2001. God was finally able to show me that I didn’t know a fraction of what I thought I did. Imagine that, it took letting go of who I thought I was to discover who I was meant to be.
I put my passion, intensity, and appreciation for life onto every page I write. One part emotions, one part spirituality, one part insight, sprinkled with a lot of action and drama has been the award-winning recipe for my fiction novels. Don’t get mad at me when you find yourself lost in a different world! Non-fiction books are a little more unique. I work diligently to create reader friendly material that will inspire and take lives to new levels based on what I have learned through God, education (Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy) and experience out in the world. I hope the value exceeds the cost.
It’s amazing to look at my past and see the man God created me to be. I am honored to say that I actively volunteer and work with adolescents and their parents in through programs such as the Sons of Abraham mentoring program and Families Learning to Interact Positively (FLIP) to help foster healthy and functional means of growth. As Director of Frontline, the men’s ministry at Resurrection Church LA, we diligently reach out to the community to help uplift and spread the word of God. In 2011, I will begin pursuing my doctorate in Psychology with the intention of conducting research and counseling to assist those seeking help with finding more productive ways of achieving success and happiness.
It seems like I will cross into the realm of conceit if I talk anymore about myself, so for any further inquires or curiosities, just shoot me an email. But I would like to say thank you to all the book clubs, literary factions, and avid readers who continue to show tons of love and support. You are sincerely appreciated for keeping the dream alive!
Disclaimer: I was not compensated for my review. My thoughts on this book were in no way influenced by the author or publicist.They are my personal reflections based solely on MYexperience while reading this novel.
You've probably played truth or dare before, but I will bet that it was nothing like the game in this story! Be ready to sit down and read this book from cover to cover. It will be hard to put it down so don't even try!
Jess started chatting with Jayson online because of an on-line class they were taking together. What just started out as chats became a truth or dare game that got more intense than you can imagine.
Dwayne S. Joseph totally got the way that Jess would feel. She was afraid that what she was doing was bad. She knew she shouldn't be doing it and should just quit, but hey it's harmless, right? The anticipation of their meeting was just making my heart race! It knew it was going to be HOTTT, and it sure was! I was so wrapped up in the story that I could feel exactly what Jess felt, nervous yet excited, wrong, but also very right.
Jayson is a character that you won't forget! I like the fact that he doesn't require his woman to have a perfect body. I got totally sucked into his game, not expecting what happened at all. I don't want to say too much about him, but just know that he is unforgettable!
This was one amazing book with such memorable characters! The writing is just so descriptive! The game of truth of dare in this book just got so intense that I was on the edge of my seat in anticipation of what was going to happen next. From the time I started this book until the very end, I was hooked like an addict! What a great mix of drama, thrills, sex, and ..... well.......I won't tell you any more. Just trust me. You need to read this one! Not only is it entertaining, but it deals with issues that are current and realistic. It really makes you think about who could be lurking out there online.
My Rating :
Truth or Dare
Author Dwayne S. Joseph
Paperback, 288 pages
Published October 1st 2011 by Kensington Publishing Corporation
What's going on! Thanks for taking the time to stop by to get to know me!
I began my writing career at the age of thirteen. Commandeering my parents computer, I sat for hours on end creating dramatic stories of fiction that earned me the best story teller in the Joseph household moniker. I then went on to win second place in the National Scholastic Writing Competition during my senior year in high school, for a short story I wrote, titled Playtime. The novels at thirteen and the short story in my senior year all helped to propel me on the destined path to becoming a published author at the age of 27, with the release of my first novel The Choices Men Make.
With eleven drama-filled novels under my belt, including The Womanizers, Never Say Never, If Your Girl Only Knew, In Too Deep, Til Its Gone, and short story contributions to four anthology collections, most notably, the Essence best seller, Around The Way Girls, I consistently set out to entertain my readers with scenarios and characters that they love and love to hate.
It's all about growth for me. I strive to grow and improve with each novel because I feel that's what the readers deserve. And thats just what I'm determined to do as I'm now taking a walk down a much different literary path with the release of my most recent novels, Home Wrecker, Betrayal, Eye For An Eye, In Strict Confidence. Darker novels filled with more suspense, more intensity, more violence, more mystery and sex!
I'm driven and determined to give more, so sit back, hold on tight....it's going to be one hell of a ride!
Disclaimer: I was not compensated for my review. My thoughts on this book were in no way influenced by the author or publicist.They are my personal reflections based solely on MYexperience while reading this novel.
First of all, I am very happy to have author Carolyn Moncel on Black Diamond's Book Reviews all Week for Week With An Author. The fact that she is on all week does not influence my review in any way. My reviews are always my honest reflection of what I feel about a book.
Carolyn Moncel is not only a great author, but I am impressed with how thorough she is at giving me all the information I needed for this week! She got everything to me so quickly and was such a pleasure to work with!
Make sure to stop in every day! There will be a giveaway later in the week!
Today we will start with my review!
Book Title:5 Reasons to Leave a Lover – A Collection of Short Stories
Description: In 5 Reasons to Leave a Lover, author Carolyn Moncel offers up a fresh batch of stories based on love and loss. As singer/songwriter, Paul Simon so eloquently suggested in a famous song from the 1970s, there are many ways to leave a lover. However, Moncel's characters demonstrate that the reasons for leaving in the first place are quite finite. Encounters in Paris` Ellery and Julien Roulet return, picking up their lives after the short story, "Pandora`s Box Revisited." This time the Roulets are involved in a love triangle, and along with two other couples, must explore how love relationships are affected and splinter due to abuse, ambivalence, deception, cheating and death. This bittersweet collection of tales proves that some breakups are necessary; while others are voluntary; and still others are simply destined and beyond anyone's control.
Short stories can go either way for me. It's always hard to tell whether or not I will like a book that is composed of short stories. Sometimes they are so short that you just don't get enough to make a good story. This was not the case for this book. I felt satisfied after reading each story. The stories were well written and complete.
Ellery had to deal with the all too common issue of being cheated on. She had a feeling that her husband was cheating on her, but she tried to overlook all of the signs. Then she tried to think of reasons why he would do that. She thought she let herself go too much, etc. There was also a story about Leah, Steve and Cinnamon. It's definitely not your normal story and I wasn't sure who Cinnamon was. I had kind of an idea after I got into it. It was a very cool style of writing. Also there was a story about Herman and Beth. It paints a picture of their life together.
Carolyn Moncel did an excellent job in making the characters seem real. I felt like I was reading a true story. Nothing seemed far fetched. These are believable stories that were very thought provoking. She really showed the emotions of the characters and really sends the message across about trusting your feelings. I enjoyed every moment of this short story collection. What are the 5 reasons to leave a lover? You will have to read the book to see, but its not just because of infidelity. Some things we just have no control over.
I would highly recommend this short story collection to everyone. No matter who you are, these stories will make you think and maybe even make you reflect on your own life.
My Rating:
5/5 Diamonds - Highly Recommend!
Disclaimer: My thoughts on this book were in no way influenced by the author or publicist. They are my personal reflections based solely on MY experience while reading this novel.
I would like to welcome Hope Lynette, author of Tha Bottom Line, to Black Diamond's Book Reviews for the entire week! Make sure to stop in every day! There will be a giveaway later in the week!
Today we will start with my review of Hope Lynette's book Tha Bottom Line!
Book Details:
Title: Tha Bottom Line
Author: Hope Lynette
Paperback: 156 pages
Publisher: Outskirts Press (August 7, 2011)
Source: Hope Lynette
About the Book:
A Steamy Novel of Love, Desire, Success-and What Happens When Relationships Collide
Skye is a successful and sexy African American woman whose days consist of business deals and sultry lovemaking with her beau, Trevor. Her sister, Bethany, is married to a thriving dentist, but her heart still pines for the hunky blue-collar Donald. Their mother, Alice, is catching the eye of the eligible Dr. Bradford. If that sounds like a lot to keep straight, wait till you meet Pete and Sylvester - two studs whose sexy past will bring this group together in a way no one could have predicted. Now, all of them are about to find out how their intertwined love lives could change their lives for good. Tha Bottom Line follows the twists and turns of this smart and savvy group of African Americans living in Southern California. It's a world driven by business, the thirst for success, and-above all-desire. But when one man's mistake shows its consequences years later, this group's tight connections could unravel everything they've worked so hard to build. The result is a fast-paced, emotional, and provocative ride that will leave you guessing what happens next-and in whose bed each man and woman will end up. This steamy and no-holds-barred look at contemporary love and relationships is by turns arousing, exhilarating and moving.
My Review:
This story is told from the point of view of Skye. Her father never expressed love for her or his other children. Crime, drugs, and women were all he cared about. This set the wheels in motion for a life of feeling unloved. She finally met Trevor though, They had great sex, but he failed express in words that he loved her. She wasn't sure if she was just his fling or what she was. She had a man from her past named Nate, and he kept creaping into her mind too. Could she forget him? Does Trevor love her or will he drop her like yesterday's news?
Pete and Tiffany are also in the book. I can tell that Hope Lynette has a sense of humor from this quote:
His tongue turned out to be a thick limp piece of flesh. It tastes like mold. As I looked into his face I pulled back from his kiss. I noticed he had white polka dots on his tongue. Oh, hell no. That was too much for me. (page 10)
There was also Bethany. She is married to Bruce, but she has a past with Donald. Does she want to stay with Bruce or rekindle an old flame?
I can't forget about Dr. Bradford and Alice! I will let you read the book to see who they are and what happens with them!
You will have to read the book to find out how their lives all turn out. I'm going to tell you right now though that you will be glad that you read it! Don't worry, there are plenty of steamy sex scenes to keep your temperature hot!
Tha Bottom Line by Hope Lynette was like reading a soap opera. There are a lot of characters and they all had different issues going on. It kept the book very interesting. When I got to the end, I was thinking, "that's it"? I wanted to know what happened next! What happens with Trevor? I was so excited to hear that there is a part two coming out! You have me on pins and needles Hope Lynette wondering what happens! I highly recommend this book.
Disclaimer: My thoughts on this book were in no way influenced by the author or publicist. They are my personal reflections based solely on MY experience while reading this novel.
Format(s): Paperback, Kindle Book & eBook (ADVANCE COPY)
Number of pages: 212Read for: Author Blog Tour - August 15th until September 30th!Source: Reena Jacobs
ISBN-10: 1463529686ISBN-13: 978-1463529680I
My Rating (out of 5):
Book Summary:
Alexandria (Alex) Carmichael guards two secrets close to her heart. One—she’s in love with her best friend, Seth. Two—he’s gay. As a freshman in college, Alex looks forward to fun times with her best friend. When Seth decides cycling through girlfriends is the way to fit in with the straight crowd, Alex must make a choice: watch Seth give his affections to another while her heart breaks or come clean with her feelings and risk losing his friendship forever. I Loved You First is a new adult love story told through the eyes of an African-American/Caucasian student who takes a journey of self-discovery while watching her best friend come to terms with his sexuality. Turn the pages and find a message of hope, new beginnings, and positive change.
I Loved You First hooked me from the very beginning and never let me down.
Alex really loved her friend Seth. She wanted to be more than friends, but he was gay. Yes, he was still in the closet. He covered up by dating different girls and then dropping them for one reason or another.
Here is a quote from when they were on the motorcycle:
"I took off with a jerk. Seth hated when I did that, but it forced him to grip me even tighter. He scooted forward with his thighs encasing mine, and his groin pressed against my butt."
Too bad for Alex, but Seth didn't want to be anything more than friends. He seemed to be such a hot guy too. Seth had his eye on a guy named Bruce. Bruce had no idea of this and had no idea that Seth was even gay.
Something happened in the story that changes everything. Alex and Seth's friendship is tested, and Alex can't believe what Seth is about to do.
I highly recommend this book. It just goes to show that it's great to have a best friend, but you can't hide behind them forever. You have to acknowledge the facts and make a life of your own too. The story didn't end up at all how I thought it would.
I loved this bible verse quoted at the end of the book:
1 "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. 2 For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. 3 " Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? 4 How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye. Matthew 7:1-5 (NIV)
About the Author:
Reena Jacobs is just your typical writer who loves to see her words in print. as an avid reader, she’s known to hoard books and begs her husband regularly for “just one more purchase.” her home life is filled with days chasing her preschooler and nights harassing her husband. between it all, she squeezes in time for writing and growling at the dog.
Disclaimer:Thank you to Reena Jacobs for sending me a review copy. I was not compensated for my review. My thoughts on this book were in no way influenced by the author or publicist.They are my personal reflections based solely on MYexperience while reading this novel.
The Sizzling Sequel to "Broken Promises Never Mend" continues with the journey of Love, Lies and Betrayal when one family is torn apart by a catalyst of events that will leave no one knowing who the other really is. Do we ever really know the one we love? Tamika and Quincy are thrown into the land of uncertainty when the past catches up to them and leaves them trying to figure out how to either cover it up or admit to secrets that just may tear them apart forever!!!
My Review
WOW! Bound By Lies started out with a bang and ended the same way! This is a continuation of the first book "Broken Promises Never Mend". If you haven't read that book, you need to!!!
I was hooked from the very first page! The event that took place right at the beginning changed Tamika's life forever. I couldn't believe what she had to go through! On top of that, she gets those mystery flowers. All of the whispers on the phone, lies, and secrets that Quincy is keeping from her still is enough to just drive her over the edge. The sex scenes in this book are scorching hot!! I didn't know what to expect when Tamika had rose pedals leading up to the person in her bed. I sure didn't expect what happened! The way Quincy's friend Malik talked to Tamika after this incident made me wonder how he is going to be in the next book. He acted totally different from the rest of the book. I'm looking forward to finding out what happens next!
I would highly recommend this book! It was a page turner from beginning to end! Allison "Essence M" Edwards wrote an excellent story and did an amazing job in continuing from the first book. It was perfectly written. She held my interest and kept me wanting more at the end! The very last word in this book made my JAW DROP! I am waiting in anticipation for the next book!
Quote from the book:
"It's amazing how we can love someone for so long and still not know them." (Kindle loc. 1536-37)
My Rating
5/5 Diamonds - Loved It and Highly Recommend!
About The Author
Meet Allison Edwards aka “Essence M”. The beautiful brain behind Illuminnessence Publishing, founded in 2007 by this avid writer who began her love affair with words at a tender age.Allison’s passion for words began in early childhood, she had always been fond of reading about life, love, poetry and short stories. Throughout her teen & young adult years she decided to put pen to paper and indulge one of her fantasies, to become a writer.Allison went on to create an extensive catalog of unpublished works including poetry & short stories.
As she matured, she challenged herself to hone her craft, exploring various story lines and navigating into the tumultuous world of adult relationships. It is with that unwavering tenacity that we’ve arrived at this point.Skillful at networking and using every opportunity to inspire others and be inspired, Allison/Essence joined forces in 2008 with the elite group The Cartel Publications Street Team/Pep Squad. This group of individuals was spearheaded by Essence Bestselling Author of A Hustler's Son and CEO/Founder of The Cartel Publications, T. Styles. "Working with Ms. Styles has taught me how to manage time and how to work hard to attain success" she says. Its an attitude like that, that causes Allison/Essence to press forward regardless of the obstacles that present themselves. Allison’s first venture into self publication “Broken Promises Never Mend", became available on Illuminnessence Publishing in early 2010. It was released as an amersion version with a new cover became available on www.amazon.com for Kindle, as of June 2010. The sizzling sequel “Bound By Lies” is available on www.amazon.comfor Kindle & in paperback, as of February 2011Allison is currently focused on a collection of other works slated for release in 2011, under her imprint “Illuminnessence Publishing.”
Disclaimer: My thoughts on this book were in no way influenced by the author or publicist. They are my personal reflections based solely on MY experience while reading this novel.
(book 5 of 13 - 3rd Quarter 2K11 Reading/Reviewing Challenge)
About the Book:
Lenora Stone used to say if she didn't have bad luck, she wouldn't have any luck at all. At age thirty-eight, instead of socializing with Baltimore's A-list, she photographs them for Baltimore Scene, a glossy magazine filled with beautiful people who, unlike Lenora, never have to worry about car trouble and overdue bills. As much as she'd love to slam the door on her overbearing boss, quitting isn't an option. She's barely making her mortgage payments and, though her condo might not be a palace, it's hers. Lately even things with her boyfriend Gerald haven't been right. They've been together for three years but he can't seem to ask the one question she's been waiting for. But what Lenora doesn't know is that her luck is about to change...
Just when she thinks things can't get worse, Lenora wins the jackpot in the Maryland lottery. In a heartbeat, all her dreams become possible. She quits her job and indulges her every desire-starting with a shiny, silver BMW and a million-dollar mansion. Gerald is finally ready to put a ring on her finger and the city's most exclusive women's group is dying for her to join, officially moving Lenora from behind the lens, into the limelight. But in Lenora's lavish new world, all that glitters definitely isn't gold. Her old friend's are concerned about her sudden changes, and Ray, a sexy, young landscaper Lenora covered for the magazine is looking for more than a purely professional relationship.
As her life starts to come together, the things Lenora holds dear begin to fall apart. Has her world really changed for the better, or does fortune come with a heavy price?
My Review:
Lenora is a 37 year old who has a boyfriend named Gerald. She really wants to get married, but he keeps putting the subject off. They have been together for 3 years, and she wonders if he will ever be ready. He is trying to get his business off the ground and wants to get their finances in order before getting married. I didn't like Gerald at all. He made comments about Lenora's weight (I have had to deal with this problem myself, and it doesn't help matters at all...just makes me feel worse), and he was always so busy. He seemed like he never had time for her. On top of all that, she doesn't like her boss and is having trouble paying her bills.
She buys a lottery ticket and kind of forgets about it. She ends up finally finding it a few days later and has the surprise of her life! She wins the lottery. All her problems are solved right? Well, her life will never be the same, that's for sure.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was really easy to follow, and the characters sound like real people. I got a little annoyed with Lenora when she waits so long to bring her ticket in and with some of the other things she does. I kind of had an idea of what was going to happen, but I didn't know exactly how things would turn out in the end. I was surprised at her conversation with Ray at the end. I'm glad she said what she did. It would have been nice to know what happened next for her though! Will there be another book to follow up? Also, I still wonder about Gerald. Was he really that busy with work? Even though Lenora made some dumb decisions and she was annoying at times, I wouldn't have changed anything about this story. I highly recommend it!
My Rating
5/5 diamonds - Loved It and Highly Recommend!
About the Author:
Connie Briscoe is the author of seven novels, one novella, and one nonfiction book. Her third novel, A Long Way From Home, the story of her ancestors, was nominated for an NAACP Image Award. Her work has appeared on the bestseller lists of the New York Times, Chicago Tribune, Washington Post, Boston Globe, Boston Herald, USA Today,and Publishers Weekly.
Her nonfiction title, a photo-essay book featuring luminaries such as actress Ruby Dee and Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, was coauthored with celebrated photographer Michael Cunningham. The collection of novellas was coauthored with Lolita Files and Anita Bunkley.
I will give away one autographed book courtesy of TLC Book Tours.
If you would like to be entered to win, please leave a comment with your e-mail address. Also, answer this question: What would you do with the money if you won a million dollars or more?
Disclaimer: My thoughts on this book were in no way influenced by the author or publicist. They are my personal reflections based solely on MY experience while reading this novel.
