Urban-Reviews.com - AA Fiction Reviews

4.5 out of 5 books

Carl Weber
Up To No Good

James Black is a long-time deacon at his church, but having numerous "no-strings attached" affairs with several women in his church is his downfall. He is not the one woman man type and makes this clear to every woman he's been involved with. James may change his tune when he meets a sexy young woman that takes his breath away. James' children Darnel and Jamie have their own set of issues. Darnel is all set to marry his high school sweetheart Keisha until he catches her cheating with his best friend. Darnel soon seeks out revenge for this betrayal, but will he go too far? Jamie doesn't like her father's womanizing ways and finds it hard to trust men. Jamie suspects that her live-in boyfriend is cheating on her and starts snooping around. Jamie soon finds out that when you go looking for things, you usually find it.

Carl Weber once again brings us a novel filled with drama in Up To No Good. The cast of characters and the fast-paced storyline really makes this book shine. If you read Weber's previous novel The First Lady, then you got just a taste of James Black's behavior. But his actions in this book are just absolutely scandalous. Darnel and Jamie's stories are intriguing as well. You will understand how Darnel was led down the dark path that he takes in order to get payback for Keisha's affair. Jamie's story was okay, but the revelation about her boyfriend could have been a little better. This novel does have a shocking and unexpected conclusion that will definitely satisfy readers. Up To No Good is a gripping page-turner that will have you eagerly anticipating the next novel by Carl Weber.

Reviewed by Radiah Hubbert for Urban-Reviews.com

4.5 out of 5 books

Music executive Teri Stewart is always finding ways to make new artists into superstars. Her days are busy with meetings and trying to keep her boss happy. She spends her nights alone, wondering why she does not have a man. Her best friend Nicole has told her time and time again that she has to loosen up. When Teri decides that she's not going to waste her time with trying to find a man, she runs into a local radio DJ and old flame named Harrison Star. Harrison knew exactly how to make Teri weak at the knees. Unfortunately, Teri cannot get past the fact that Harrison had broken her heart in the past. Will Teri let the past impact her future, or will she take Nicole's advice and loosen up?

Author Mary Monroe has written an intriguing book about an independent woman that wants to have it all. I enjoyed the way that Monroe gave details about the reason the main characters Teri & Nicole are having such a terrible time falling in love. You can relate to why Nicole is hesitant about getting involved with another man after the abusive relationship she had with her ex-husband. These two best friends stick together through thick and thin. I had not been a big fan of Mary Monroe's prior novels, but The Company We Keep made me a fan and I cannot wait until her next novel comes out.

Reviewed by Jackie for Urban-Reviews.com

Mary Monroe
The Company We Keep

4.5 out of 5 books

Tina Brooks McKinney
Dubious

Felicia Clark has a fulfilling career as an attorney, but her sex life and marriage are anything but. When her husband gives her an ultimatum in regards to investing more money into his business, Felicia is headed to divorce court. In the midst of her divorce, Felicia becomes attracted to her new client Sherman. Felicia wants to move on with Sherman, but she still needs to know what is behind her soon-to-be ex-husband's sudden lack of desire for her. When Felicia discovers that a dark fetish is the reason for the break up of her marriage, it literally turns her world upside down.

Dubious is a daring novel by Tina Brooks McKinney. McKinney brought an interesting storyline that centers around a taboo topic that no one dreams of talking about. This subject was presented in a delicate and honest manner. Once you find out what this story is truly about, you will be in for a shocking surprise. You find yourself sympathizing with Felicia once she discovers the truth about her husband. You will also see how she has to deal with this situation without becoming directly involved. McKinney also showed the emotional strain that is put on Felicia and her relationship with Sherman. Dubious is full of all of the humorous and snappy dialogue that Tina Brooks McKinney is known for.

Reviewed by Radiah Hubbert for Urban-Reviews.com

Check out our exclusive audio interview with Tina Brooks McKinney
in the On The Line section.

4 out of 5 books

Tarcia is back with more drama than ever. After she finds out that Kentee already has a family, Tarcia will try anything to have him all to herself...even voodoo! But her antics may land her in jail. Leah is finally moving on to a new life with Craig, but will Kentee try to put a monkey wrench into her plans? Meanwhile, Sammie is going through her own problems. She still has some insecurities that may keep her from having a healthy relationship. Sammie also has to deal with finally meeting her father's side of the family.

Tina Brooks McKinney once again brought the non-stop drama with Fool, Stop Trippin'. All of the characters that you love and hate are back and better than ever. Tarcia's cousin Lasonji and her new friend Chauncey add even more craziness to this novel. You'll definitely laugh at some of the antics of Tarcia and her cousin in this story. Readers will also find it refreshing to see Leah finally have the kind of man that she needs in her life. Of course, this novel would not be complete without a whole new set of issues for Sammie and Jasmine. Fool, Stop Trippin' is a thrilling installment to this series.

Reviewed by Radiah Hubbert for Urban-Reviews.com

Check out our exclusive audio interview with Tina Brooks McKinney
in the On The Line section.

Tina Brooks McKinney
Fool Stop Trippin

4 out of 5 books

Cheryl Robinson
In Love With A
Younger Man

Olena Day has never had it easy with men. After her first boyfriend in high school committed suicide, Olena went off to college seeking a brand new start. Things begin looking up for her until she gets her heart broken by an upperclassman. Olena is now 43-years old and is a successful businesswoman. She just started her year long sabbatical from her job when she meets ex-football star Jason Nix. She becomes interested in a platonic friendship with Jason until she meets the sexy Matthew Harper. Matthew is a successful finance manager at a luxury car dealership and he's everything that Olena is looking for. The only problem with Matthew is that he's only 25-years-old. Can Olena put aside Matthew's age difference in order to pursue a long-term relationship with him?

Cheryl Robinson once again brought a thought-provoking and entertaining novel with In Love With a Younger Man. Robinson put a very modern spin on May/December relationships. You can see how Olena can fall in love with Matthew and will want to root for their relationship. However, you can also see Jason as the more suitable choice for Olena given his age and life experience. Robinson captured the little problems that Olena and Matthew have due to their age difference, like Matthew's preference for text messaging instead of having actual telephone conversations. This story is full of humor and some unexpected twists that could possibly lead to a sequel. In Love With a Younger Man is a wonderful contemporary story about relationships that can be enjoyed by all.

Reviewed by Radiah Hubbert for Urban-Reviews.com

4.5 out of 5 books

Yoyin is a spoiled heiress who always gets what she wants, especially when it comes to her wild sexual fantasies. She even has two male servants that cater to her every whim at the drop of a dime. Yoyin thinks that she will get to live her deepest hedonistic fantasies when she receives an invitation to a beautiful island. She soon finds out that trip is not just for her own pleasure but to learn a life lesson designed specifically for her. Will she become a willing participant, or will she just give in to her own desires?

Disciplined is an intriguing novella by Allison Hobbs. Hobbs takes the reader on a journey into the life of a privileged young woman. Yoyin is a character that you will definitely dislike from the start of this story but ultimately sympathize with by the end of the book. Hobbs did a wonderful job of showing how a dangerous ancient practice affected Yoyin's destructive, wanton behavior. You will see how her time on the island will change her life forever. Disciplined has a healthy dose of steamy sex and drama that will be a sure delight for any erotica fan.

Reviewed by Radiah Hubbert for Urban-Reviews.com

Allison Hobbs
Disciplined

5 out of 5 books

Kimberly Kaye Terry
Auctioned

Chase Davidson has always been an overachiever and a workaholic. Chase has tried to overcome her childhood pain by always being in control and attempting to be "number 1." But when Chase is passed over for a promotion that she feels she deserves, she is devastated. Chase decides to accept a mysterious invitation to an island that promises to fulfill her every desire. She is soon treated to some hedonistic pleasure but will she learn to give up some control in her quest to be number one?

Auctioned is a seductively pleasing novella by Kimberly Kaye Terry. The author gives a story that is the perfect mix of eroticism and emotional drama. Readers will see right away just how twisted Chase's control issues are, especially when it comes to sex. You will see how Chase has to step outside of her comfort zone in order to get what she needs to learn on the island. Terry showed her strength as an author by having Chase confront her traumatic childhood demons in order to move forward in her adult life. This novella also has some very vivid sex scenes that added the right touch to this novella. Fans of Terry's previous titles should be forewarned that this story is not romance, but a true erotica novella. So if you are a fan of romance but not erotica, then this book is not for you. Auctioned is deliciously addictive and will definitely leave you satisfied.

Reviewed by Radiah Hubbert for Urban-Reviews.com

4 out of 5 books

Briana Neeson thought she had the perfect marriage until her obsessive-compulsive behavior drives her husband to divorce court. Confused and heartbroken, Briana tries to find ways to mend her marriage until an anonymous postcard invitation to an exotic island pops up in the mail. Briana soon escapes to a resort where all of her sexual fantasies can come true. But can Briana let go of her inhibitions and insecurities in order to participate in the exhibitionist lesson that she needs to learn?

Obsessed is a spicy novella by Delilah Devlin. Devlin created a unique story about how a woman's obsessive-compulsive tendencies damaged her marriage. You can feel Briana's uncertainty when she arrives on the island. Devlin does a good job in showing the transformation of Briana into a confident woman, both mentally and sexually. This story is filled with racy sexual escapes that will satisfy any erotica lover. Fans of this author’s previous work should be warned that this is a erotica story with a slight underlying romantic theme. Obsessed is a imaginative and exciting addition to this series.

Reviewed by Radiah Hubbert for Urban-Reviews.com

Delilah Dawson
Obsessed

3 out of 5 books

Stephanie Perry Moore
Work What You Got

In Work What You Got, Hayden Grant is entering her sophomore year in college and is ready to pledge Beta Gamma Pi, her mom's sorority. Freshman year, she and her roommates were at every single function hosted by the Beta's, so it's a given that they are all going to be on line together. However, when Hayden returns to school, she learns that her friends may have other plans.

While Hayden is trying to pledge, maintain her grades, and keep the peace at home, her former study partner Creed makes his intentions known. With both of them pledging, they believe that they can juggle all of the craziness. Will that hold true when Beta Gamma Pi consumes Hayden's entire life?

Appealing was the history related to the sororities as well as God's presence and how when they were down someone suggested prayer. Regrettably, everything else was strained and discomfited. I had a very difficult time accepting the authenticity of the story and characters. While Work What You Got does have plenty of drama, I'm eager for an easier flow and tremendous growth in book two.

Reviewed by Nardsbaby for Urban-Reviews.com

4 out of 5 books

Honey Harlow is a force to be reckoned with. She is taking Paris and the lingerie world by storm. Honey is a self-made woman that does not have time for a serious relationship. Ettiene Marais is a Frenchman who only wants to acquire Honey's lingerie business...that is until he meets the woman behind the beautiful lingerie. Honey is not interested in selling her company, but she could be persuaded to have a European fling. Once Honey and Ettiene start spending time together, it may become more than a fling.

Suite Nothings is an excellent read. It has a very romantic setting that is an integral part of the story. The secondary characters also have a major role in making Suite Nothings enjoyable. They add a realistic humor to a very romantic story. J. M. Jeffries also has a writing style that flows, which makes the story a very easy read.

Reviewed by Tenecia for Urban-Reviews.com

J. M. Jeffries
Suite Nothings

3 out of 5 books

Barbara Keaton
One In A Million

Deena Walls has it going on. She is a high-powered attorney that comes from a wealthy, loving family. The only thing that Deena doesn't have is a serious love interest. She's been there-done that and is not doing it again, that is, until she meets Detective Charles Harris. He's tall, easy on the eyes, and exactly what Deena is not looking for. After several chance meetings and some that were not so chance, Deena and Charles become an item. However, there is a secret that Deena has that she thinks will make the difference between happily ever after and Charles walking away.

One In A Million has several subplots developing along with the main plot. There are also a number of secondary characters that are introduced. Some of the secondary characters were not developed as well as I think they should have been because of the role that they had at the beginning of the story. There were also times that the story didn't really flow smoothly which I think had to do with the under development of some of the secondary characters. However, the overall storyline in One In A Million was enjoyable.

Reviewed by Tenecia for Urban-Reviews.com

Read our exclusive interview with Barbara Keaton
in the Inside Out section.

4 out of 5 books

Sasha Diamond just caught her boyfriend of two years cheating on her. She is pretty much done with relationships after that, but Sexton Johnson has other plans. Sexton is an NBA star that is ready to settle down. He said that his mother told him what to look for in a woman, and Sexton has found it in Sasha. Of course when everything is going good, something has to go wrong. The question is, how will Sasha handle the drama having been betrayed before?

Moments Of Clarity was a feel good book. The characters were "real" and very relatable. I also enjoyed the fact that Cameron portrayed a different side of an NBA star since the media usually glorifies what they are doing wrong. She shows the guy who wants to be married and be a family man...the good guy side.

Reviewed by Tenecia for Urban-Reviews.com

Read our exclusive interview with Michele Cameron
in the Inside Out section.

Michele Cameron
Moments Of Clarity

3.5 out of 5 books

Sylvia Lett
Take U Down

Jackson Kaufman is on a mission to claim what is rightfully his, but somewhere along the way he falls in love. Stephanie Mason inherited a multi-million dollar hotel chain when she adopted a friend's daughter after she died during childbirth. What Stephanie doesn't know is that her daughter's father is still alive, sordid past and all. Spending time with Stephanie and his daughter, Jack wants a to be a real family. But with all the lies and deceit between him and Stephanie, Jack is not sure if that is possible. And just when his life seems to be getting back on track, his past comes back to haunt him.

Take Me Down is a romantic action story by Sylvia Lett. It takes a while before the action starts; but when it does, it draws you into the story. Lett does a good job of mixing the romance and the action elements throughout the story. Your imagination is challenged somewhat when it comes to the plot and characters. But overall, Take Me Down was an enjoyable story.

Reviewed by Tenecia for Urban-Reviews.com

5 out of 5 books

Karis Reed is like most teen girls her age, weighted with the decision to do the right thing or what she, herself, deems as right. She and her mom clash after her mom invaded her privacy and read her diary. While that isn't the important factor, Karis knows that she was so wrong for going to Derrick's house, but she had everything under control. Besides, she doesn't even like him anymore. Doesn't that count for something? Um, no! While forced to do hard time, no computer, cell phone or I-Pod, Karis may have stumbled across a way to serve her time while keeping in touch. Though she may have been able to bend the technicalities in the law, Karis may not be out of trouble. It appears that she may have gotten her nights and weekends mixed up and as a result she could be facing a stiffer penalty. Can there be a way around this sentence as well?

Michelle Stimpson's Trouble In My Way is comical, charming, encouraging as well as compassionate. I loved the characters, the excitement, the trueness and the storyline; I especially enjoyed the fact that while it's based on faith, it isn't so preachy that you can't possibly see yourself or understand what is being conveyed. Karis was able to grasp all of the teachings and not only does she learn that she can rely on God, she also learns that how she carries herself is reflective of what she says. Trouble In My Way is a spectacular read for teens and parents alike, and I consider it one of my favorite books for 2009!

Reviewed by Nardsbaby for Urban-Reviews.com

Read our exclusive interview with Michelle Stimpson
in the Inside Out section.

Michelle Stimpson
Trouble In My Way

4 out of 5 books

Pat Simmons
Talk To Me

Noel Richardson seems to be every woman's dream man. He's educated, wealthy, and very handsome, but the outward appearance does not characterize a man. During Noel's teenage years, he was in an accident that caused him to become deaf. Noel never responded when woman tried to get his attention. The only one he could hear was the voice of God.

Since his life has been turned upside with losing his hearing, it was very hard for him to find a church to fellowship with and he felt his spirit was faltering. That was until he found out about God's Grace Church where he became engrossed with an interpreter by the name of Mackenzie Norton. To Noel, Makenzie was intriguing, stubborn and a steadfast believer in the Lord. With the help of Mackenzie, Noel could hear the unthinkable.

Talk To Me is a book about a hearing-impaired man that has overcome some very difficult obstacles. In the beginning, the book was a little slow; but the more you read, the more the book becomes a must read, and you will not want to put it down. When you turn your life over to God, nothing is impossible and that shows true with the story of Noel. Pat Simmons did an exceptional job with balancing romance and scripture within the book. Talk To Me shows how you can overcome any roadblock as long as you have God on your side.

Reviewed by Jackie for Urban-Reviews.com

3 out of 5 books

Dr. Julia Turner, Cassie Gillette, Theresa "Terry" Lewis, and Toya Parks were four minorities attending an all 'white' school and they share a horrible secret. Two decades later, as adults with families of their own, they've moved on in life. Three of them are successful, and each have attempted to leave that dreadful memory in the past. Pete Whitlock shows up at Cassie's doorstep stating one purpose but with a more sinister one...he accuses her of being a part of the reason for his brother being paraplegic.

Julia has moved back home to restore her alma mater, Christian Lights. Like Cassie, she is a born again Christian, and their friendship has blossomed even more in adulthood. Together, they embark on 'righting' the wrong that occurred on that mysterious night while trying to recall the exact event. Dr. Maxwell Simon, another Christian Light alumni, has returned home with a new outlook from his childhood. He and his friends were also minorities in the school, but in seeking acceptance, they shunned the girls that looked like them for the 'white' ones.

God Only Knows is an inspirational read that serves as a testimonial of sorts. Xavier Knight's storyline shows that no matter what the situation is, God has all of the power and might in his hand. It shows how each trial is only temporary, but His power is everlasting and almighty. Even though I found the book to be a bit slow and uneventful, God Only Knows is a calming read that has a few lessons regarding family, friendship, and enemies.

Reviewed by Tazzyt2bossye for Urban-Reviews.com

Xavier Knight
God Only Knows

4 out of 5 books

Terra Little
Where There's Smoke

Anne Phillips is a successful businesswoman trying to raise her sixteen-year-old teenage son Isaiah. Raising Isaiah is becoming more difficult due to his friends constantly luring him into the streets. At her wits end, Anne decides to find Isaiah's father in order to give him that important positive influence that he needs. This may be easier said than done because Isaiah's father was a drug dealer name Smoke and Anne was his customer. Smoke got out of the crack game long ago and now goes by his given name Alec. Alec is now a teacher with a normal life, until he is served with child support papers for a son he never knew he had. As Alec hops on a plane to meet Isaiah and confront Anne face to face, he wonders what the outcome will be. His mission is to start a relationship with his son and to keep him off the streets. But things become complicated when he starts having unexpected feelings for Anne.

Where There's Smoke is an engaging tale from Terra Little. At first glance, this novel may look like an typical urban street story but that is certainly not the case. This is a very timely story about the struggle that single African American mothers have in raising their sons alone. You see how Anne is trying everything in her power to keep her son off of the streets. Little did a wonderful job of showing how Alec and Anne left behind their dubious past to become upstanding members of society. You even see how Isaiah is transformed once Alec becomes a part of his life. A realistic storyline and strong characters makes Where There's Smoke a definite winner.

Reviewed by Radiah Hubbert for Urban-Reviews.com

4 out of 5 books

Dominique Green is a woman that is used to getting what she wants when she wants it. She has climbed the corporate ladder of success at Troutman Mutual Funds & Investments company. Dominique thinks she's in line for a well-deserved promotion, that is, until the CEO dies. The CEO's nephew Arvind takes over the company and is ready to make some changes. But when Arvind finds himself mildly attracted to Dominique, he has decide if their relationship should be more than professional. Dominique already has occasional trysts with Chad, but she is suddenly interested in Arvind. But is Dominique focusing on the wrong man?

Uncrossing Her Legs is a widely entertaining novel from T. D. Patterson. Patterson brought a story with a good mix of drama and sexiness. Readers might think that this is a erotica novel, but it's more of a contemporary fiction story with a spicy twist. You see how Dominique's and Arvind's childhood affected them in there adult relationships. The unexpected twist in this story makes this novel all the more enjoyable. Uncrossing Her Legs is a fast-paced novel that is worth reading.

Reviewed by Radiah Hubbert for Urban-Reviews.com

Read our exclusive interview with Teresa D. Patterson
in the Inside Out section.

T. D. Patterson a.k.a. Diane Diamond
Uncrossing Her Legs

3 out of 5 books

Teri Denine
Lovers And Liars

I wish I may, I wish I might, abort all these dragons, and find an honorable man, my true knight.

Superstar songstress Journey is tired of fighting to retain her crown as an R&B sensation, fighting her whoring husband yet demanding manager Christopher, and tired of the rat race lifestyle that's draining the life out of her.

On an impulse, Journey flees her frustrations and takes her bodyguard with her to Paris. While being incognito, she relaxes and basks in the normalcy she has in this newfound safe haven. While at home, Christopher aimlessly seeks clues to her whereabouts. Mentally exhausted, filled with doubt, and unsure of her hopes and dreams, Journey finds enjoyment in a newfound freedom with a sexy, seemingly, unassuming man.

Lovers and Liars is a tale of another dissatisfied celebrity and the antics she faces on a daily basis as she attempts to find peace of mind. The storyline touches on the tedious, yet draining schedule that entertainers endure with the many pitfalls incurred with management, paparazzi, and the grueling competition in trying to fulfill the consumers wants. Even though there are no overpowering emotions nor any memorable or charismatic characters, Lovers And Liars is still a solid read.

Reviewed by Tazzyt2bossye for Urban-Reviews.com

4.5 out of 5 books

Does money make the world go around? Having money can take care of you financially, but what about mentally and emotionally? Money can also be the root of all evil, and it can bring problems you could not even imagine.

Paisley Terrell is a struggling model who is fed up with men. For a year and a half, Paisley had been supporting Bobby mentally and physically, hoping his long life dream would come true. When she suspects Bobby of cheating, she gets the help of "Busted," a reality television show that catches spouses in the act of cheating. Her assumptions about Bobby are true and literally catches him in the act. Tired of broke men, Paisley vows never to put herself in that situation again. Will Paisley find her prince charming? Or will her obsession with getting a man with money cloud her judgment and make her lose an opportunity?

Caleb is a successful investment banker. Handsome, financially stable and outgoing, he brings a lot to the table. After a string of bad relationships, Caleb is tired of dealing with gold diggers and having his heart broken. But Caleb has his own issues stemming from his childhood. Sometimes love is found in the strangest places. Will Caleb find the true love he desires, or will he be blind and let it pass him by?

Bobby Trumane was not the man he said he was. Bobby's life encompasses lies, deceit, and cheating, When the "mis-truths" are brought full circle, his aspirations of becoming a sports agent come true. Will Bobby continue to live a dangerous lifestyle, or will he meet his match and be forced to come clean?

Dedra is Caleb's secretary, best friend, and confidante who is always by his side during his whirlwind of bad relationships. She's the one who gives it to him "straight no chaser." Unbeknownst to Caleb, Dedra is secretly in love with him. When a chance encounter brings those feelings to light, will love conquer all, or will skeletons emerge from the closet?

Men, Money, & Gold Diggers was an excellent read by Je'Caryous Johnson. The book addressed the male and female perspective, and it illustrated the good, bad and the ugly in relationships. Johnson showed that no matter how much money you have, it means nothing if you don't have someone who is down to ride with you and stay true. Men, Money, & Gold Diggers provided drama, an interesting storyline, and proved that there is a light at the end of the tunnel...even when you least expect it.

Reviewed by Kristin for Urban-Reviews.com

Je'Caryous Johnson
Men, Money, &
Gold Diggers

4 out of 5 books

Oasis
Push Comes To Shove

Greg "GP" Patterson is a dreamer with a wife, two kids, and a boatload of bills and responsibilities that have been shuffled one too many times. Hard times are breaking down his doors like a drug task force, his wife Kitchie is about fed up, and the kids are rapidly losing confidence in dad and his Street Prophet cartoon character. Jewels is his best friend and life jacket in all situations in betwixt her running credit card scams and the next illegal transaction she can get up in the mix with.

While handling their daily hustle, Kitchie and GP are caught up in an altercation that lands them in jail and their children in a foster home. Not just any foster home, but the foster home that GP grew up and was tortured in with his archenemy presiding there. Frantic with the realization that they are indeed helpless and unable to rescue their children, GP and Kitchie face uncomfortable encounters while incarcerated, as does the children facing bullies young and old. It's the good guys versus the bad guys from beginning to end with a mix of issues for everybody.

Oasis has painted a very realistic, emotionally-charged, and refreshing novel. I found it to be a great read that satisfied my thirst for a sincere and page-turning storyline. The characters are genuine and very enchanting. The overview is altogether addictive as it has you afraid to read the next page, but too scared not to proceed. I could actually visualize the characters and specifically could see Jewels being portrayed by none other than Queen Latifah. I commend the author for a job well done. An endearing storyline that was not saturated with sex, designer labels, profanity, or graphic murders. Push Comes to Shove evolves around disappointments, lost dreams, loyalty, responsibilities, sacrifices, genuine friendship, the evil of the world, and more than anything true love. Magnificente Oasis!!!

Reviewed by Tazzyt2bossye for Urban-Reviews.com

4 out of 5 books

Kahla Thompson has always played by the rules as far as her life has been concerned. She has a good career as a court reporter that allows her to get the finer things in life. Kahla's life is pretty good, but she longs to be married like so many of her friends. It also doesn't help that her biological clock is ticking louder with each passing day. The one thing that Kahla said she would never do was to get involved with a married man. This all changes when she meets a sexy and very married police officer name Kevin Eckhart. Kevin is everything that Kahla wants in a man, but he's not totally hers alone. Will Kahla settle for just half of a man?

Mistress Memoirs is an emotionally-charged novel by Lorraine Eliza. Eliza showed great creativity by showing how a normally straight-laced woman can find herself involved with a married man. You see the growth in Kahla's thinking as she realizes her own role in this affair and how this affects her as a person. This book puts a very different spin on the "other woman" story. The moral of this story is that the husband is not the only one to blame in an extra-marital affair and that the mistress needs to take responsibility for her own actions as well. Mistress Memoirs is a novel that gives you a unique look into a familiar storyline.

Reviewed by Radiah Hubbert for Urban-Reviews.com

Read our exclusive interview with Lorraine Elzia
in the Inside Out section.

Lorraine Elzia
Mistress Memoirs

3 out of 5 books

A. P. Ri'Chard
Caged Innocence

Is the color of your skin really a sin? It was during the early 60's in the deep South. Larry Henderson has no idea what is going on. All he knows is that besides his dad, his favorite person in the whole world is murdered, and that the motive for the murder is his skin color. Not really understanding race as a little boy, it took for Larry to be accused of a murder that he didn't commit for him to grow up and really understand racism.

Larry's father has been the only black man on the police force for years and understands how everything works. Trying to convince Larry to take the charge and go to jail for murder spirals out of control, and all sorts of things you can't imagine happen in his life. Going to jail at age 17 for a murder he knew nothing about, Larry tries his best to fight it. Realizing that the one person he thought had his back isn't actually any better then the people persecuting him, Larry begins to gives up hope. Then an older man in jail helps Larry build his self-esteem up again and get the fight back in him. This helps him to eventually be released from prison some 20 something years later. But he finally uncovers the truth on the murder and the reason behind his father's actions.

A. P. Ri'chard tells a tale of deceit, murder and a whole lot of betrayal in Caged Innocence. Even though the whole 60's racism theme caught me by surprise, the author told the story in a way that it kept you engaged in the story. You wanted to know what would happen and why his father would do such a horrible thing to his own son. Mr. Ri'chard did answer all the questions I had in reading the story. He showed why certain things happened, and in the end, how it all unfolded. Caged Innocence is certainly not the typical casual read that I'm accustom to, but it is proof that Ri'chard can definitely tell a story.

Reviewed by Angie for Urban-Reviews.com

Read our exclusive interview with A. P. Ri'Chard
in the Inside Out section.

4.5 out of 5 books

In Spittin' Game, we're introduced to three brothers: Michael (the politician), Xavier (the mastermind), and Kyle (the baby brother). Each of the brothers are hilarious in this refreshing read with a memorable voice as they meet for a Pow-Wow by big brother Michael. Michael seems to have gotten himself in a tad of trouble. As a result, Xavier heads the committee for damage control and the laughs begin as each brother has a different ludicrous tale to tell as they all seek sexual pleasures with different divas.

Spittin' Game is reminiscent of an ice cold glass of lemonade on a hot summer day. Just what the doctor ordered for an original and hilarious view of life and people in general. In reading the synopsis, I was a bit doubtful, but I am so grateful that I was awarded the chance to read as well as review this novel. In the midst of the comedic scenes, T. L. Bryant develops a great storyline with an amazing flow. Every scene is so vivid as well as fascinating and reels you in with belly-aching laughter at the antics the characters are caught up in. It even has an unexpected twist at the end which confirms my belief in the author's natural storytelling skills! Of course, the author had one weakness: the infamous editing. But the book was so good, it was only a very minor distraction. I absolutely loved Spittin' Game and I highly recommend it. I'm anxious for another entertaining as well as pleasurable novel by T. L. Bryant to hopefully be released in the near future! Magnificent job!!!

Reviewed by Tazzyt2bossye for Urban-Reviews.com

Read our exclusive interview with T. L. Bryant
in the Inside Out section.

T. L. Bryant
Spittin' Game

4.5 out of 5 books

Shay
Raw: An Erotic Street Tale

Have you ever felt that life played you a bad deck? When you think nothing else can go wrong, it does. It leaves you wondering how life can change in the blink of an eye. As a result, you begin evaluating what went wrong and why?

Charity Jones was a typical sixteen year old teenager when her life changed forever. Her father killed her mother after catching her in bed with another man and was sent to prison. Being that both her parents were only children, foster home was next for Charity. After being sexually assaulted, Charity has to survive on his own. Working at The Meat Club, Chasity meets Legend who introduces her to a life she never knew. Legend schools Chasity on using her beauty to its full potential. Legend is a big brother that Chasity never has, but Chasity wants more than a friendship. But is it good to mix business with pleasure?

Jackie is Chasity's best friend since elementary school. They grew up together, struggled together and always had each other's back. Jackie wanted a taste of the good life, but sometimes everything that glitters is not always gold. Will Jackie see that the good life is not always as you expect it to be? And what price and cost will she have to pay?

Legend was a unique individual. He was always on his A game. He had it all...looks, smarts and money. Legend threw exclusive parties that brought in a diverse clientele who paid a hefty fee to experience a walk on the other side. This usually included liquor, their drug of choice, and any exotic women they desired. But when Legend meets Chasity, he notices something different about her. When Hunter comes on the scene, will Legend express his true feelings or play the second fiddle and lose the women he desires?

Hunter was Legend's cousin, but they grew up as brothers. They had a sibling rivalry type of relationship between them. Hunter falls hard for Chasity on sight and goes against Legend's wishes and pursues Chasity, giving her the world. Clothes, money at her disposable, and trips across the seas. But when Hunter's past comes to haunt him., who will be in his corner. Will he survive to see?

Raw was a gritty book. It tackled subjects that are not the norm. It definitely was a good read from beginning to end. The subject of sex, money, drugs and danger always leads to a good read. I enjoyed how Shay gave you good background information on the main characters. You can definitely understand why certain choices were made. But with every choice there is an consequence. Raw offered an different type of excitement, and it's no-holds-barred tone sets the mood for an excellent book.

Reviewed by Kristin for Urban-Reviews.com

Read our exclusive interview with Shay
in the Inside Out section.

3 out of 5 books

What happens when guns are put in the wrong hands? Thomas Overton created a tale told from a gun's point of view. He describes how horrible the gun feels when children and a bunch of innocent people are being murdered. The intentions of Smith & Wesson when manufacturing the guns were for military and police use and not everyday people looking to commit a crime. The story goes on to many different scenes, allowing the reader to see just how easy it is to get a hold of a gun and take a person's life for no reason at all. One slip can determine a person's fate and cause havoc on a whole community.

I understood the moral point of the story in Murder With A Deadly Weapon. However, the story was slow all the way through. I'm not sure if it was the language or the way it was told, but it didn't hold my attention. Overton could have just told the story and not included paragraphs from the gun's point of view. This is just my opinion, but I think when authors use something really imaginary and unbelievable, it turns me off from the actual storyline. Mr. Overton did bring every scenario together with how the gun went from one person to the next person. Murder With A Deadly Weapon just wasn't it for me, but Thomas Overton certainly has a true talent for writing.

Reviewed by Angie for Urban-Reviews.com

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Thomas Overton
Murder With A
Deadly Weapon

3.5 out of 5 books

Tracee A. Hanna
Ultimate Freak-Fest Fantasy

Samson and Bella have been best friends for years. They have also had a very satisfying sex life. Things really start to heat up when Samson joins Bella in Jamaica for a hedonistic adventure. There's plenty of carefree, passion filled nights and days for this couple. This escapade takes a more serious turn when Samson suddenly wants more than just this casual relationship. He wants an exclusive arrangement with Bella. But will the free-spirit nature of Bella let herself be tamed by Samson's desires for something more permanent?

Ultimate Freak-Fest Fantasy is a saucy novella by Tracee A. Hanna. Hanna created an erotic fantasy tale that tests the relationship of friends with ultimate benefits. There are plenty of descriptive sex scenes that keeps this story going. This novella would have been more complete if there was more of a background in regards to Samson and Bella's relationship. You don't even get to know how they met. Hopefully, there will be more of a back story with the sequel to this novella. Ultimate Freak-Fest Fantasy is a quick and sexy read.

Reviewed by Radiah Hubbert for Urban-Reviews.com

Read our exclusive interview with Tracee A. Hanna
in the Inside Out section.