African Books

I read this book after my mother past it on to me. I have since gone back and read Indigo as well. This story burned into my soul. I have read and re-read for the last week and a half. Everytime I get a few minutes I go back and re-read a part the evoked stong emotion. I cried and I laughed. The characters were so real that I felt like I was there. This needs to be made into a movie. I would love to see Raimond, Sable, Galen, Hester, and the Brat come to life on the big screen! Beverly give somebody movie-rights!!!!

Beverly Jenkins is an amazing author. I love all of her historical romance novels. 'Through the Storm' is my favorite so far.

Every time I read a Beverly Jenkins novel I learn something new about African American history. She put her foot in this book.

I thought this book was a well written and wonderful book. I had to re-read this book with my book club. We all enjoyed the book, we all cried at different parts. Sable was strong and relied on her strength, Raimond was a bit spoiled, like most men. However, he was able to get over himself and love Sable. The part of being re-captured back into slavery was quite sad, but love prevailed and I am truly happy that Raimond found her. Great book, filled with so much history. Love th bibiliography as always.

After reading Indigo and learning about Raimond and his brothers, I was hoping to read more about them. I enjoyed reading about the budding romance and attraction between Sable and Raimond. I tell you Ms. Jenkins' really knows how to make a story come to life. She makes you feel like you're right there in the heat of all the action and the drama. She entertains as well as educates. I can't say I've ever enjoyed a history lesson so much as when I'm reading one of her historical fictions. Also while reading this particular story my heart ached for the characters. And the trials they had to go through in order to maintain their freedom. Once again, the worst thing about a Beverly Jenkins' book is that you never want them to end. Keep 'em coming, Ms. Jenkins!

If you have any interest in human behavior, this is a must read. It is a true story of a man who has to overcome so much to succeed. The challenges he faces are so harsh, as he struggles through life as a foster child.

the ending made me switch to 5. I liked the happy ending. I think what made it kinda bad for me reading this one was that I saw the movie first. So while reading I kept trying to copy parts to scenes in the movie.

What makes this book great for me is the fact that it's written by a black man about his troubled life. Most black men won't even tell the people close in their lives things like this let alone write a story for the world to read.

End child abuse today.

This is an awe inspiring piece of literary work. The narrative from the beginning inspires the reader and allows almost a walk-along journey into the author's life and the actual steps that he took. The movie was good in its setting and up to date account of a life in the 60's. The book adds so much story that went untold in the movie and is that much more moving. Antwone Fisher writes as if he has been doing this since a child.

The novel Finding Fish by Antwone Fisher is a very good book. The book is far better than the movie and i reccomend it to all. It entails his life as well as select readings from his poetry. It is a a story of struggle and beating the odds to become a success

Antwone Fisher is a child who lives from horrible foster home to ghastly foster home and eventually, almost by accident chooses a life that saves him. For someone who cannot have children - I was crushed by the neglect and abuse this poor child suffers by people whose view of children is either as a burden or cash cow. It is not a small miracle that this human being reached adulthood without having killed himself or become a victim of what our society foists upon poor black men.

Although Fish has so much going against him, his ability to keep some semblance of balance inside himself eventually saves him. The tales of his childhood are almost too much to bear, but you will keep reading because you know that it turns out, you are cheered when he is dumped by his foster mother (who insisted he was evil and therefore deserved the horrible treatment he receives, including a denial of Christmas gifts), and you are gripped when he seems to find himself on the streets without a home or a way to make a living. He eventually joins the Navy - which saves him, providing him with the structure he needs to grow into an adult. He has to spend sometime in the military learning to manage his (completely understandable) anger, and he is bright enough to learn how to do that. Lastly, when he is reunited with the family of his mother (who gave birth to him in prison) I had a sigh of relief for the closure this provided him.

Even though this book is hard to read because of the pain that this child suffers, it is a gripping and extremely well written autobiography and is worth every page. We should all spend more time concerned about what really happens to the unwanted children in our country.

she is the best by far. I love this author she has never let me down I wish I could get a copy of her new one ASAP. All I can say is I love her books.

I have read most of Diane McKinney-Whetstone's books, and this one like the others did not let me down. It is a well crafted, organized story of a very personal nature. It reminds me how nieghborhoods used to be, both black and white. Nieghbors would share and assist raising each other's children, drink each other's food, and get into one another's business without major repercussions. This is the village that raised many of us in the older portion of the modern generation, before we were raised by the video game and television set. The characters are human, sturdy and accessable. I've seen these people, I know these people, I like these people. This is a very well written and enjoyable book. And i would encourage you to read it if you have a chance.

As with all of McKinney-Whetstone's novels, you are moved by her literary prose to destinations, times, eras, and so many fine places of the heart.

I am also a big fan of Diane McKinney Whetstone, and while I'm not sure why it took me so long to buy and read this book, I am really glad that I finally did. Once again the author has given us characters who we can't help but love - even the ones that we probably aren't supposed to! I enjoyed this book immensely and can't wait for the next one!

The novel LEAVING CECIL STREET by Diane McKinney-Whetsone is set in Philadelphia in 1969 on a beautiful African-American neighborhood street. It was a joy meeting Joe, Louise, Shay, Alberta, Shawn, Neet, Deucie, and Brownie in the novel. Cecil Street and its inhabitants reminded me of the cohesiveness of the African American neighborhood in the past. This is when African American continued to try to keep their streets as nice and neighborly as possible. The story centers on family, betrayal, secrets, love, survival, and dysfunctional families. It included vivid imagery and was full of nostalgia.

The author's novel writing skills are extraordinary. She really knows how to provide vivid setting descriptions that made you think that you are right there where everything is happening. She gives you a feel for the problems that the characters have contented with in the past and current. Her character descriptions make them seem like someone you have known; they jump right off the page. Even though there were scenes were my teeth cringed (eating cat food, mouth surgery) I couldn't stop reading. This story bought back memories of my childhood neighborhood. Where everyone knew everyone's business however, the neighbors were always there to lend a hand whenever needed

One problem I had with the story was that many of the subplots developed by the author were not brought to a conclusion, which left me with many unanswered questions. In addition, through there some very dicey scenes in the book, as soon as the excitement happened, the book ended. .

Overall, I rated the book a five based on its easy read, vivid descriptions, interesting characters and wonderful story line. What happens on Cecil Street could happen in any neighborhood. If you like a good story, read this book.

I think so far this is my favorite book. I have read half of her books. For some reason the story of Chase and Cara Lee really resonates with me. I am sure I will read this one again.

This excerpt is one reason I enjoy this woman's works so much:

"When the British parliament decreed an end to slavery in the British West Indies on August 1,183, American Northern Blacks embraced the day for the hope it held for those still in bondage in the United States.

Since Blacks found little reason to honor July fourth, they embraced August first instead. It became a day of celebration, a day of antislavery rallies and speeches; picnics and parades; and in Black churches from Cincinnati to New Bedford, Mass., midnight services, known then as night watches, were held in solemn commemoration."

Again she gives you an education with a little erotica.

Beverly Jenkins is awesome. Not only are her love scenes hot but you are given a wealth of historical knowledge regarding the reconstruction and subsequent jim crow period in our history. She is able to make you proud of our contributions and especially proud of our black men and the way they treat their families and women. She is great and the stories have plots that hold your interest and keep you wanting more.

Of all the books that I have read over the years Night Song is #1 on my list. Thank you Ms. Jenkins for such as Fantastic novel. Please keep them coming.

I have come 10 years late to this genre, I never knew it existed but now I am hooked. Beverly Jenkins provide historial information, suspense, romance and a good story you never want her books to end. I look forward to reading all of them. Beg, buy , borrow of steal (well not steal) to read her books if you have to.

Who knew that a history lesson combined with some steamy romance could be so entertaining. I thoroughly enjoyed the mix and can't wait to read more of her historical romance novels. I loved the relationship between Cara and Chase. Thank you, Beverly Jenkins.

I really think that the author of this book trully out done herself a great book. I can not wait to read more from this auhor.

Looking at the cover of this book, I wasn't eager to read this book. Once I started to read it, it was soo good! I read this book in one day! Please go out and get this book, you will not be disappointed!

For starters lemme start out by saying that i slept on this book for 2 yrs b/c honestly if that is supposed to be a picture of Milton, the main characters boyfriend, 1 he aint cute and 2 he look like a dyke not even a man. And too me the cover is just cheezy looking, however this book was excellent. At first i couldn't see how this book could have so many twists and so much evil could happen to the main character but i must say all in all she overcame everything and good things come to those who wait. I understand Milton was abused but what he did to Myra was unforgivable and it was sad but things like this really happen. If you sleeping on the cover like i was don't immediately pick this up and read now. It kind of reminds me of "Harlem girl lost" by Treasure E. Blue just the way the turn of events took place. Go buy and read!!!!!!!!!!!!

Such hardknock lives but I always like happy endings....this was my firs AG McCall read...she went back and forth but she kept it all under control...seems like everything got a little rushed in the end... it will keep you company because you won't want to put it down...all in all I gave it 3 stars.....plus there's room for a sequel....I think....

I do not know what to say about this book. I don't think words would do it justice. This book is one of the best well put storys. IF YOU HAVEN'T READ IT, YOU ARE SURELY MISSING SOMETHIN!!!

Although I'm in high school, I recently reread the book and found it refreshing. It's not very sophisticated, but it is a nice read. Also, Jacob's reactions to events in his life were quite... intriguing, to say the least.

What would you do if your mom died, and your Dad did not even know about it? Then your step Dad was going to send you away to your closest relatives really far away. Thunder Cave is the first book in a three book series, about a young teenager who was in a similar situation. The boy had a lot of courage, love and friendship that was beautifully written by Ronald Smith.
Thunder Cave is an emotional book about a boy named Jacob Lansa who is14 years old and from New York. His parents are separated and he lives with his Mom and her husband, Sam. His Dad is in Kenya helping the elephants survive the major drought. After his mother dies from a car accident Jacob has nowhere else to go because Sam is leaving. Sam tries to send Jacob to Nebraska to his closest relatives. But Jacob decided he wanted to be with his Dad. His Dad couldn't be reached, so he went on a courageous journey to Kenya on his own. He went through tough times. He got mugged, he runs low on money and he almost dies. But all of a sudden a remarkable friend came along and helped him. His friend was like rope that he held on to forever. Together they encountered elephant poachers who wanted to kill them. They also had to perform a rain dance to make it rain because of the drought.
Thunder Cave is one of the best books I have ever read. I liked it because no matter what happened to Jake he never gave up. I would recommend it to anybody who likes action and adventure books because it takes Jacob on an adventure that he and you will never forget.

this is a great book! this storey took place in kenya africa. a boy named jacoob lansa is looking for his father dr. robert lansa a feild biologist trying to save the african elephants. when jacoob nearly dies an african native man named supeet finds jacoob and helps jacoob find his dad! great book!!!

This book is a total eye opener. I recommend it to all readers my age. It's a total surprise. You'll be glued to the book as you turn each page. This exciting book will be one of your favorites. I read his other Crypted Book Sasquatch and it was amazing.

I met the author, Roland Smith, when he visited my elementary school years ago, and he made such an impact on me that I have never forgotten him or this book. I have re-read it at least half a dozen times, and the imagery and fantastic plot and message make this one of my all-time favorite books from my childhood. The great thing is that he really knows his stuff- he's worked with animals for years and traveled around the world, so his stories have an authentic feel rather than I'm-pretending-to-know-what-I'm-talking-about-but-really-don't. I would easily recommend this to any kid interested in a well written adventure and hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Pick up any book Brandon has a part of. This guy is remarkable at what he does. I started reading him because i wanted to read a "supernatural" book. When reading the "unreal" it is just that....unreal. But his way of writing will have you wanting more.

This is another great book he has put together. Left me on the edge of my seat expecting more and actually receiving it. Good read. Pick it up

I thought this book was a little over the top. This was the first book I read of Mr. Massey and it didn't really sell me. I will probably try another book of his before I make a final judgement. I love to write and Mr. Massey is inspirational. He is very passionate about his writing and I admire him for making his dream come true. I think the best is still to come with Mr. Massey.

Although the plot was mildly interesting, it was a little too 'far out there' to be truly captivating. I wasn't especially impressed by the author's writing style; I found his repeated inferences to the black culture interupted the material's flow. I most likely won't seek out other works by this author.

Drew (short for Andrew) is a successful novelist who appears to have everything. He has a hit thriller series, a nice large home in Atlanta, several wonderful friends, and is eagerly awaiting his new book deal (which promises to make him hundreds of thousands). The only thing missing is the love of a good woman, or to finally admit that he is in love with his best friend, Carmen. A slave to habit, his life, which is clearly outlined and followed, is disrupted when he meets the "woman of his dreams" (Mika) in Starbucks. She seems, initially, to be everything he wanted....beautiful, smart, rich, sexy and seemingly independent. However, after a night of passion, Mika turns into something he doesn't want and can't handle. As the novel unfolds, Massey introduces an element of the supernatural that promises to hold the attention of the reader until the very end. With a stormy parental relationship with his father, and his mother's psychic dreams, Drew realizes that he is in trouble, but is unsure of how to escape the one he thought that he desired. Filled with psycho cats, a sweet ghost named Sammie, and a scary groundskeeper (Walter), this novel has it all.....a little romance, some mystery, some deaths and a great story. I won't tell you what or who Mika is, reading this novel will tell you that, but I will say that Massey is among the few today who can create a story to be rivaled by Tanarive Due or Octavia Butler. Read this novel and you will not regret it.

So I had to take a break from the romance novels and hit up one of Brandon Massey's new thrillers titled "Within The Shadows".

If you love a good thriller, then this is the book for you! It started off with a bang! It ended with a bang! This book shows you that you should be open for the possiblity of anything happening in your life! The good, the bad and the UGLY!

Brandon's main character Andrew realized all that. He was a creature of habit until the one fatal day he did something he didn't normally do! Yep, it costed him a lot when he stepped out of his normal habit and didn't FOLLOW his CONSCIENCE!!!! True enough some good came out of it. BUT a whole lot of bad and ugly came out of it ti! It was a great tale of friends, family, and lust!

Take a ride with Andrew as he deals with writing a book, selling his 4th novel, sex, love, and the ghostly adventures!!!!!

This book is so good......i just couldn't wait to see what was on the next page.......dominic is like so many men who think the grass is green on the other side or that they won't ever get caught.....he really met his match when he met tera.......i was like, this woman is crazy but that's what he gets for cheating on his wife.......he doesn't want to leave her but he doesn't want her.......man the ending was great and i had that feeling it was who it was.........there has to be a sequel to this becuase i am hanging on the edge for some more.

I've been curious about Wives and Girlfriends and I finally read it. I read it one day. It was a pretty good read.

I truly enjoyed this book!! I absolutely love the surprise ending. It was well written, fast paced and suspenseful. Highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a great mystery book.

Yes, I read this book, and I was surprised. Whew! it took me there, I'm so glad everything ain't all what it seems, just read the book, then you'll decide that sometimes things are not always fairytales.

Wives and Girlfriends by Nishawnda Ellis is an explosive tale full of deceit and suspense. Tera Larou was a professional girlfriend who decided it was more fun playing that role. She would not `befriend' single, eligible bachelors though. She aimed for rich and powerful married men. She hit the jackpot the night she met Dominic Jones, the most prominent Black man in Boston. He owned his own computer consulting firm and Tera wanted to keep this `suitor' for life. She figured as long as she played her position, he would never leave her. It was extremely hard for Tera to keep up her end of the bargain. She began to have feelings for Dominic which turned her into a liability for him. He attempted to break it off but Tera would not allow it. She began to break all of her own rules and turned into the jealous girlfriend who would stop at nothing to get her lover to see things her way.

Donna always felt that Dominic was cheating on her but she had never done anything about it. As their home life started to be disrupted by Tera, Donna decided it was time to confront Dominic about his infidelity even though she had no hard evidence.

Wives and Girlfriends is a fast and excellent read. The imagery is captivating and engaging. The characters were realistic and I felt connected with each of them. This novel was so good, I could not put it down. It grabbed me from the first page and kept my complete attention until the end. The plot and subplots were strong and the suspense was well-paced. I recommend Wives and Girlfriends to readers who enjoy murder mystery and urban fiction. I look forward to future works by Nishawnda Ellis.

Reviewed by Darnetta Frazier

I have yet to read this book, but it is in good condition.

This book is one of the best autobiographies I've ever read. Not only is it filled with details of Patti's life, it also takes you to the lessons that she's learned from the time when she was a shy little girl, to life as a megastar. This book will truly touch your heart as you cheer on the diva that is Patti LaBelle.

Patty LaBelle is amazing. She has an incredible voice, a career full of ups and downs, and can bring down the house in concert. This book is just another triumph for a lady who deserves all the accolades she receives. With absolute honesty, she reveals so much about her life--from sexual abuse to the fear of dying of cancer like her sisters and good friend--you feel that Ms. LaBelle has given you all that she can. Throughout her life, she has faced a good deal of challenges but has emerged with a positive attitude about life and can still entertain with the best of them. I have seen her in concert 3 times and she blew me away each time. This book does the same. After reading the dismal biography of Aretha Franklin (From the Roots), I realized what a gem this is. If you wanna read a really good book about an incredible entertainer, give this one a go. Its worth every penny!

PATTI takes you on a journey-from the Bluebelles, to LaBelle and through her solo career. She talks about her battles with her self-esteem, record companies, men and THE TRAGIC deaths of sisters. Did you know that NONA had a nervous break down during one the LaBelle concerts-and was taken to the hospital in restraints? WOW! This lead to the break-up of LaBelle! Pick this one up and you'll find out much more.

Congratulations, A reflective autobiography with some depth and truth. Before reading Patti's, I read Aretha's, which I ultimately felt like tossing in the middle of the street! Great job! I thought the book was very inviting to the personal side of Patti. I have always admired how forthcoming she has been with the public in relation to her late sisters. This book can truly encourage one to live life, as well as love and appreciate life.
However, there are a few things I would like to clear up, which I found inaccurate or inappropriate. The Jackie Wilson episode I found rather distasteful, particularly since he is not around to defend himself(it was o.k. to slander Al Green). Also, as I had to do with Gladys in her book, I need to clarify a few inaccurate points you raised in your book. In reading your relationship with Atlantic Records in the 1960's, one is left with the impression your group wasn't given a fair shot due to the success of Aretha. Well, that's not totally true, since you were with the label two years before she signed on. It just wasn't your time yet! Now is your time. You sound greater and look more beautiful than ever. You have a wonderful spirit in which people adore you far and near. You are truly a blessing. Wonderful job.

The best pecan pie recipe in this book that I have ever found, and I have looked for one for years! It can be doubled to fit my Watkin's 10" deep dish pie pan without burning the pecans or the filling! I love it!

I love to cook and as a cook, I love people who enjoy cooking as well. I feel like I know Mama Dip. I love this cookbook!!

If you like down home southern cookin this is the book for you!! I bought this and her other cookbook. Love Them!

The recipes in this cookbook are fantastic. They are simple to make and absolutely delicious. Mama Dips has changed our long standing Thanksgiving tradition...her roated turkey recipe is so delectable we use this recipe now instead of the one that's been in use for the last 50 years. You won't go wrong with this cookbook. Highly recommended!!!

I would recommend this cookbook to anyone searching for some real down home soul food. The recipes are simple and easy. The food is beyond delicious. This is my firt mama dip's cookbook but it won't be my last. I look forward to ordering her other cookbooks soon. The other night I cooked the creole shrimp with rice, and my husband and I loved it. He is a LOUISIANNA native so it was home for him. There are so many great things that I can say about mama dip's cook book, but what i want to say to people who are skeptical and not sure if they want to purchase her book, GET IT, you will not be dissappointed at all.