CALLUS ON MY SOUL by Dick Gregory
Kensington Pub Corp., February 2003
304 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 0758202024

With choices come sacrifice, and in Dick Gregory’s book CALLUS ON MY SOUL, he tells the story of his life and shares with readers both the positive things he gained and the things he has had to forego as a result of his decisions. He tells of his childhood, which included a life of poverty, racism, and an absentee father. But more importantly, Gregory shares how he learned as a child to use humor as a way to transcend his difficult life experiences and gain peer acceptance. This would serve as an omen for the important role that comedy would play in his later life. As Gregory tells of his developing career as a comedian, readers quickly see the sacrifices that he and his family made in order to achieve the level of fame that he ultimately became known for. A great portion of the book is dedicated to Gregory’s experiences and commitment to social causes. He relates to readers his experiences in the civil rights and human rights struggles, and tells of his personal experiences with both noteworthy and little known social activists. He tells of how he and other activists sacrificed their careers, physical safety, and time with family in order to stand up for what they believe in.

Because Dick Gregory has played such an integral role in so many historical events relating to civil and human rights, this book is so much more than a memoir. Anyone who picks this book up receives a new insight into many of the events that shaped the history of the United States. In addition, Gregory shares his own political views and opinions with a boldness and clarity that makes it evident that he is indeed an activist at heart. He also tells of the unwavering support of his wife and ten children as he fasted, went on cross country marathons, and even traveled the world leaving them at home. CALLUS ON MY SOUL is a political, historical, and personal account of a man who has dedicated much of his life to a number of worthy causes.

Reviewed by Stacey Seay of The RAWSISTAZ^™ Reviewers

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THEIR EYES WERE WATCHING GOD by Zora Neale Hurston
Perennial, December 1998
256 Pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 0060199490

THEIR EYES WERE WATCHING GOD takes you on a journey with Janie, from her thrust into womanhood to her finding true love. A grandmother, who had a vision of the man she should marry, raised her. Only Janie didn’t love that man. Instead, a man with his promises of grandeur and a luxurious life enthralled her enough to make her runaway with him and leave her first husband. Later she realized that all the materialistic things didn’t mean anything unless she had the love (of her husband) to complement it. After her second husband’s death, she eventually found the love she longed for with a younger man.

Joe Starks, an educated man from Georgy (Georgia) got wind of a town in Floridy (Florida) - called Eatonville - being a place for Negroes. During his trek to the promise land, he met Janie, charmed her, and led her away from her first husband. Although Joe promised and gave Janie many things, his focus was more on “his” town than his wife. He thrived more on his newly acquired power and positions. He never realized how detrimental his actions were, not even while on his deathbed.

Vergible Woods, also known as Tea Cake, taught Janie the joy of spontaneity. He was not rich with money or gifts, only in spirit and love. Their relationship raised many questioning eyebrows and was shunned by the community. Neither paid them any “nevamind” and kept about their business of keeping each other company… until Tea Cake went away too. He died being the kind of man the grandmother had envisioned Janie being with.

Ms. Hurston’s storytelling is vivid and filled with colorful antics. Her “porch” stories, told in Eatonville dialect, are sure to have you laughing. Written in 1937, THEIR EYES WERE WATCHING GOD reads like a modern day novel; it will have you highlighting passages and sharing them with others. I could feel the passion of Ms. Hurston’s writing with every word I read. This is a recommended read that will not only give you history, but plenty of good medicine through laughter.

Reviewed by Ess Mays of The RAWSISTAZ^™ Reviewers

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GOD STILL DON’T LIKE UGLY by Mary Monroe
Dafina Books, September 2003
320 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 1575669129

Mary Monroe’s highly anticipated sequel, GOD STILL DON’T LIKE UGLY, does not disappoint. The story picks up with some familiar faces from God Don’t Like Ugly and includes a few new characters for a little extra spice. The protagonist, Annette Goode is still plagued by memories of her abuse at the hands of Mr. Boatwright and the devious deeds that her best friend Rhoda performed. Annette also has unresolved feelings towards her father for abandoning his family for a white woman. Because of all the pain and grief she has endured, this novel finds a stronger, more confident Annette who is able to cope with all the twists, turns, and pitfalls that life has to offer. In this novel, she will learn about true love, true friendship, and the lessons that you cannot escape from your past and that “what goes around comes around.”

Although a sequel, GOD STILL DON’T LIKE UGLY, recounts much of the story for new readers without being redundant. It is definitely a stand-alone book. If you did not read the first novel, you will not be lost trying to figure out characters or plots in order to follow the story line.

Mary Monroe has again woven a cast of colorful, unforgettable characters. She intertwines humor and a bit of romance while tackling intense social issues such as rape, child abandonment, prostitution, and racial tensions. Fans of Monroe will be delighted with her newest novel. My only disappointment came when the last page had been turned.

Reviewed by Latoya Carter-Qawiyy of The RAWSISTAZ^™ Reviewers

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AS WE LAY by Darlene Johnson
Villard, November 2003
368 Pages, Paperback
ISBN: 0375758429

AS WE LAY takes a hard look at the price of having an affair with a married man; a price ultimately paid by everyone close to the relationship. Architect Breck Larson has two wishes; She wants a man who can allow her the independence she desperately needs, and still love her completely. And she needs to land a major contract that will springboard her career in this male dominated field. And with one phone call her wants and needs have the promise of a solution. Eric Warren, co-owner of a prestigious property management firm, awards Breck a contract that could put her in the Who's Who of the architectural world. And during the many business talks they share, Breck and Eric soon establish a connection that surpasses merely professional.

At Eric's insistence, Breck moves her business from Indiana to Boston to be with him, but Eric is a married man. He adamantly professes his love for Breck, but he professes the same love for his wife. Breck knows Eric is committed to his family and has no plans to abandon them. But Breck is the happiest she's ever been and what he offers her is enough for now. After three years, Eric has parallel families and he is happy, but Breck has changed. The negative illusions she had of Eric's marriage were once enough to justify what they are doing. But the forebodings voiced when they started the affair suddenly have real meaning and she sees herself as someone disposable. Will she finally demand more? And does she
have a right to? Then tragically, that decision is no longer the issue, the lives of Eric's sons are.

Ms. Johnson tells this story with a uniquely mature look at infidelity, void of the intense drama so prevalent in some relationship novels. And while this story in no way condones their volatile affair, it certainly gives an unrestricted view of the other side. And it escalates this situation to more than just a clear-cut right or wrong issue. There are lessons to be learned on all sides. Bold, deliberate, and provocatively real, this is a monumental read.

Reviewed by aNN of The RAWSISTAZ^™ Reviewers

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THE CRADDLEROBBERS: MISDEMEANOR by Tanya Marie Lewis
Sadorian Publications, June 2003
134 Pages, Paperback
ISBN: 0971814864

Toiling over how to put my thoughts into letters to make cognizant words, I'm finally here at the point to try to recap one of the most moving books I've ever read. Can you imagine something that may seem to be very small when initially looking at it, but yet once you've been able to inspect it closer you realize that it has had an impact on your life? This is the easiest way for me to start off telling about MISDEMEANOR by Tanya Marie Lewis. In only 134 pages, her words managed to pick me up, turn me around, and place me smack dab in the middle of a life-size mirror, that allowed me a glimpse of her characters and then a full screen view of myself.

Lewis launches The Craddle Robbers Series, which will focus on older women with younger men, but her story sits at the very top of the list of Christian Fiction titles that I’ve read. MISDEMEANOR is not only the story of two Christians, their path to love and the detours they take to get there, but it also shows the impact that God can have in your life when you’re ready to receive Him and the blessings He’s prepared to bestow upon you.

MISDEMEANOR opens with an introduction to eight-year-old Malena Dawson after the death of her beloved father. Unsure of what death is and waiting on her father to return, she speaks freely to God about her feelings, surroundings, and family; yet like with most children that age, she doesn't fully understand what happened. However, she does hold onto her Father's Bible, the teachings she's learned from her parents and in church, and her spirit and belief in God. The story follows Malena throughout the remainder of her childhood and on to an adult moving from the small Southern town she grew up in and placing her in the hustle and bustle of Atlanta, Georgia. It is in college that Malena rejects everything she's learned as a child, allowing herself to live in a life of sin on a search to further her career. Yet, in all her success, she finds that she's not happy with herself or the men in her life. On the surface, it appears that she has it all, yet she's not in the right place to see what God has bestowed upon her because she's turned away from Him.

Grant Carpenter is introduced early on in the story as the know-it-all child in Sunday School Class. Four years younger than Malena, he ignores the age difference, and confesses his love to her, even while they are children. Though very young, he possesses an "air" of godliness and knows without a doubt what God has planned for his life. He's sensitive, loving, and patient, with both Malena and God's vision. When they are at a crucial part in establishing their relationship, something happens that topples the balance and Malena is left alone to suffer the consequences of her actions.

There aren't enough adjectives out there to adequately detail Lewis's writing style and sensitive and loving approach to the story revealed in MISDEMEANOR. It is a compelling and moving story of love, patience, forgiveness, redemption, and fate. Lewis has a natural way of storytelling that takes you deep into the crevices of her characters' mind. Her writing is believable, strong, moving, and uplifting. Unlike other books I've read that showcased the protagonist growing up, I actually felt the difference in the character as she grew from a young child into an adult coming full term with her decisions in life. This story also teaches that we shouldn't allow past events to block the blessings that God has in store for us. It touched my heart, warmed my spirit, and caused days of reflection over my own life and the things I could change to be a better person.

Reviewed by Tee C. Royal of The RAWSISTAZ^™ Reviewers

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DARK CORNER by Brandon Massey
Kensington Pub Corp, January 2004
464 Pages, Paperback
ISBN: 0758202490

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ANOTHER MAN’S WIFE by Shonda Cheekes

Strebor Books, October 2003

384 Pages, Paperback

ISBN: 1593090080

ANOTHER MAN’S WIFE tells about friendship, marriage and family.  Yani, Asia, and Alex each have something in common.  Yani is slowly coming to realize that her first and only love Jarrin may never return after five years of waiting for the inevitable.  Asia is looking for love and can’t help but wonder if it’s in the right place.  Alex keeps attracting the wrong type women and is ready for a change.  Bryce and Carmen, who are mutual friends to them all, have what Yani, Alex and Asia want… a happy marriage.

When Bryce and Carmen decide to play “matchmaker” and skillfully plan the meeting of Alex and Yani, the results are more than they expect.  Will Alex tell Yani who he really is or will he keep his true identity under wraps until he’s absolutely sure?  Will Yani tell Alex her secret?  In the meantime, Asia is trying to see if a lost love can be rekindled when she ends up in Miami with her former fiancé, Hayden.  Why was their engagement called off?

ANOTHER MAN’S WIFE takes you through the trials and tribulations of relationships and shows you how lies, untold stories and uncertainty can either make them stronger or make them diminish.  Experience the whirlwind courtship of Yani and Alex and the sexually driven relationship of Asia and Hayden.  Mrs. Cheekes does an excellent job of telling each story in the first person with a smooth transition from one to the other.

ANOTHER MAN’S WIFE is a highly recommended read that is guaranteed to keep you wondering what happens next.  It’s not predictable and the end results are guaranteed to put a smile on your face and tears in your eyes.

Reviewed by Ess Mays of The RAWSISTAZ^™ Reviewers

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SUGAR & SPICE: A NOVEL by Keith Lee Johnson
Strebor Books, November 2003
256 Pages, Paperback
ISBN: 1593090137

Move over James Patterson and Detective Alex Cross, mayhem, murder and mystery has a new team—Keith Lee Johnson and FBI Special Agent Phoenix Perry. In SUGAR & SPICE: A NOVEL, author Keith Lee Johnson bursts onto the literary scene with a spellbinding page-turner about a set of twins with an evil set of minds. The twins are being paroled from prison after serving a ten-year stretch. While in prison, they made the choice to stay alive. In order to survive, the two chose to become the “property” of those with the power to protect them and suffered many indignities as a result. With hardened hearts, they used their free time planning to extract revenge on everyone responsible for putting and keeping them in prison.

Now out of prison, with some major axes to grind, the twins set off on a rampage of plunder, murder and rape that began on the east coast and moved to the west coast. The brutal crime scenes left behind appeared similar, yet unconnected because of the distance and the seemingly unrelated victims involved. With little evidence found at the scenes, the job of solving the crimes fell into the hands of one of the city’s finest and she just happened to be a sister. That’s right, FBI Special Agent Phoenix Perry is a badge-carrying African American female with the power and skill to make life a little uneasy for the murderers. As Agent Perry uncovered the truth, she put herself in danger and unearthed some truly shocking evidence.

Keith Lee Johnson has crafted a masterful tale of murder and mystery with lots of twists and turns; some of which will leave you with your mouth hanging open while holding on the edge of your seat. Mr. Johnson brings an exciting new influence to this genre. He is one author to watch. The novel is filled with short chapters for easier reading, unforgettable characters for a memorable experience and an almost never-ending source of surprises. This is excellent read and I recommend it highly. Guaranteed to keep you glued until finished like I was.

Reviewed by Brenda M. Lisbon of The RAWSISTAZ^™ Reviewers

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PROVERBS FOR THE PEOPLE edited by Tracy Price-Thompson and TaRessa Stovall
Kensington Pub Corp, June 2003
494 Pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 0758202865

We have all heard proverbs at some point in our lives; little truths that teach morals, tell stories, or teach us how to live. In PROVERBS FOR THE PEOPLE, authors take insightful African, African American, and Biblical proverbs and utilize them to create extraordinary short stories that depict truths and leave marks on the heart.

This unique anthology contains stories from well known authors such as Travis Hunter, Omar Tyree, Margaret Johnson-Hodge, Pearl Cleage, and others, as well as stories from up and coming authors. Like the proverbs they represent, the stories are diverse and full of emotions. Although all of the stories were wonderful and touching, some of personal favorites were Gwynne Forster’s “First Thing Monday Morning,” which taught the morals that actions speak louder than words and to be careful what you wish for, because you just may get it, and Robert Fleming’s “A Crisis of Faith,” about a man who is wrongly incarcerated.

PROVERBS FOR THE PEOPLE is a wonderful novel that will teach, inspire, and entertain. It has a story that everyone can relate to, and will make a wonderful addition to any book collection.

Reviewed by Latoya Carter-Qawiyy of The RAWSISTAZ^™ Reviewers


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SISTER BETTY! GOD'S CALLING YOU, AGAIN! by Pat G'orge-Walker
Kensington Pub Corp, July 2003
211 Pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 0758203764

Sister Betty has always considered herself a woman of God, so she is not shocked to receive a phone call from God himself. What is even more shocking is how she behaves after the call. Once a self-centered woman, she becomes more caring, and more cognizant of others feelings. She also has some revelations that forever change her life and the lives of the others that attend the Ain't-Nobody-Else-But-Us-All-Others-Going-To-Hell-Church.

In author Pat G'orge-Walker's new book SISTER BETTY! GOD'S CALLING YOU, AGAIN! she offers a series of vignettes reflecting Sister Betty's efforts to keep everyone in the church on their proper path with God. All of the stories are tied together and offer up a cast of colorful and outrageous characters. My favorite character throughout the book is Ma Cile, she is the grandmother of two mischievous 10 year olds who are constantly testing her nerves and patience. This was something I could relate to, because when I was their age it was my goal to drive adults crazy.

SISTER BETTY! GOD'S CALLING YOU, AGAIN! had me laughing from cover to cover. The author has found a way to marry humor and life's lessons, and the product is hilarious and informative. This is the first time I have read Pat G'orge-Walker's work but it will not be the last. I highly recommend that readers pick up this book and share it with their families.

Reviewed by Simone A. Hawks of The RAWSISTAZ^™ Reviewers

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SWORD OF VALOR by Tom Willard
Tor Books, July 2003
320 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 0312873859

SWORD OF VALOR by Tom Willard is the fifth installment of the Black Sabre Chronicles.  In this highly educational and entertaining installment, Willard showcases women in the military during the Operation Desert Shield entanglement in the Middle East.  He focuses on the role that women played in times of wars that is often left to speculation.  Furthermore, Willard continues the saga of the Sharps family.  The Sharps are an African-American, five-generational military family and with SWORD OF VALOR, Argonne Sharps is the focal point. 

As Argonne heads off to war in the Middle East, SWORD OF VALOR takes you into the life and history of her family and the contribution the family has made to the military for the past 130 years.  Reflecting methodically on their upbringing as members of the military and as members of a military family, a historical account is laid before our eyes.  Added to this account are the genuine feelings and reflections of the non-military members of the Sharps family.  Through them we come to the realization that some only imagine as they wait and learn the fate of their loved ones during times of battle.  Written in a descriptive and definitive language, readers receive a lesson in patriotism, loyalty and familial ties that bind.

Reviewed by Dawn R. Reeves of The RAWSISTAZ^™ Reviewers
 

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INSIDE THE FALL by Terry E. Hill
ReGeJe Press, April 2003
182 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 0963914723
 
Elijah D. Farrow reigns as the all-powerful, much-feared mayor of San Francisco.  However, deadly close to re-election, his reign is threatened by the expulsion of his biggest secret ever. Fighting to maintain voter approval amidst the emotional disarray of his personal life is not easy for Elijah. Finally pushed over the edge, the story really takes flight as Elijah's fall commences.

Engrossing and energetic, Author Terry E. Hill delivers an excellent premier novel as he skillfully carries the reader into the life of Elijah Farrow. Hill tastefully portrays a scandalous affair while showcasing its effects on the political careers of those closest to the Mayor and his lover. The language and the characters are real, and there are sufficient twists to keep any reader engaged from start to finish.  INSIDE THE FALL is complete without tying up all loose ends, and the characters are well-developed for such a short novel.  A few grammatical errors only briefly distract from an otherwise compelling story. 

I thoroughly enjoyed INSIDE THE FALL and the characters - whose lives I had the brief privilege of observing. I anxiously anticipate reading future works by Mr. Hill. 

Reviewed by Natasha T. of The RAWSISTAZ^™ Reviewers
 

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RENDEZVOUS EIGHTEENTH by Jake Lamar
St. Martin’s Minotaur, November 2003
311 Pages, Hard Cover
ISBN: 0312289200

Set in romantic Paris in the drippy, rainy springtime, RENDEZVOUS EIGHTEENTH is a delicious mystery about an expatriate African American. Rickey Jenks is escaping his family in New Jersey who he believes think he’s fat and dumb. After his bride-to-be leaves him at the altar, Rickey decides he has had enough and moves to Paris where no one knows him. One night when he returns home from work, he discovers a transsexual prostitute has had her throat slit in the entrance to his building. After slipping in the blood and then fainting, he wakes up to find that the Paris police think he did it. To further complicate his life, a cousin he hates, Cash Washington, suddenly appears in Paris and wants to meet with Rickey. At the same time his African girlfriend begins having second thoughts about their relationship and his friend and French tutor, Valista the Serb, wants him to hide a box of hand grenades for her. Amid the confusion, Rickey knows he must solve the mystery or do time in a French jail. 

RENDEZVOUS EIGHTEENTH is a wonderful travel guide to Paris. It is also a social commentary on the past and present expatriate African American community as well as a riveting mystery that holds the reader’s attention to the last word on the last page. 

Reviewed by alice Holman of The RAWSISTAZ^™ Reviewers

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SOMEONE TO LOVE ME by Francis Ray

St. Martin's Paperbacks, December 2003

346 Pages, Mass Market Paperback

ISBN: 0312986777

 

After being unceremoniously dumped by her boyfriend, Michelle Grant seeks solace on one of the many beaches of San Francisco.  While there, she meets B. J. who comforts her and helps her get over the hurt and betrayal she feels.

 

Nine years later, Michelle is a successful real estate agent in Dallas.  As the most successful agent in her office, Michelle is chosen to court and woo the business of Brad Jamison, owner of a major computer manufacturing firm, who is considering relocating to Dallas.  Immediately after meeting Brad, Michelle realizes that he is B. J., the man she has secretly desired for the past nine years.  Will Michelle's fantasy finally be realized, or will rumors and secrets destroy any hopes of true love conquering all?

 

Francis Ray has done it again!  She has crafted another well written story, complete with strong characters, an engaging and entertaining storyline, and of course, sizzling passion!  Whether it be a cold winter night, or a hot summer day, SOMEONE TO LOVE ME (which includes a bonus short story and a sneak peek at her next book) is sure to leave you with that warm, fuzzy feeling that only a great romance novel can provide.  This is sure to be a favorite among romance readers, and one that I highly recommend.

 

Reviewed by Renee Williams of The RAWSISTAZ^™ Reviewers

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SPOKEN WORDS by Brian Peterson
Chance22 Publishing,  June 2003
317 Pages, Trade Paperback
ISBN: 0966458710

SPOKEN WORDS is the story of four twenty-something individuals in search of meaning and purpose in their lives.  Each one takes a different journey to find it, but their paths are often paved with pain and confusion.  Peterson does an excellent job capturing this bewildering period in everyone’s life. Creating a quartet of characters who could easily be case studies for sociologists trying to understand the enigmatic Generation X.

Set in the City of Brotherly Love with frequent references to New York, Peterson unfolds the worlds of Troi, a poet-activist; Jay, an aspiring writer; Nichelle, the quintessential fly girl; and Stephon, the corporate hustler. Each character is fully developed, has a different voice, and has reached a crossroad in his/her life.  The novel explores these characters’ past, present, and future while the reader is given a voyeur’s view of the whole journey.

SPOKEN WORDS is also laced with social commentary that is set to a hip hop beat.  I can only imagine Peterson’s enthusiasm and passion as he wrote some of the scenes.  I was right there with Troi as she dropped knowledge while she
recited her poetry.  There is so much to experience within the pages of this book.  Peterson succeeds in writing about a generation of people who are often misunderstood or written off as frivolous.  SPOKEN WORDS dispels those myths
and sheds light on the complexities faced by many in this generation.

Reviewed by Diane Marbury (HonestD) of The RAWSISTAZ^™ Reviewers
 

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I AM WOMAN: WALKING IN GOD’S DIVINE PURPOSE by Sha’ Givens
I Can Fly Publishing Company, September 2003
135 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 0970984138

I AM WOMAN is a wonderful testimony of Given’s personal quest to know God’s purpose for her life. In relating her tale, Given’s imparts to her readers very touching, very real life stories. She provides rich scripture lessons to reinforce her narration. It continually evidences the power of God’s redemptive power and unconditional love. I AM WOMAN is a resounding affirmation for women of all ages in their walk with God.

I AM WOMAN provides many life stories to which most females could relate. One particular story regarding a relationship issue told of how Given’s was ready to turn her life completely around to convenience the man of the moment. Through her own will, she made many rash decisions. However, as she allowed the will of God to control her life, she came into the realization that this man was not for her. She offers the prayer of repenting and turning away from being in control of her life and realizing God has a perfect plan for her.

I AM WOMAN is laced with many prayers and scripture references to continually reinforce Given’s personal testimonies and imparts to the reader a very valuable scripture-based lessons. I would recommend this to anyone who is interested in strengthening her relationship with God!

Reviewed by Nedine of The RAWSISTAZ^™ Reviewers
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BROWN SKIN: DR SUSAN TAYLOR'S PRESCRIPTION FOR FLAWLESS SKIN,
HAIR AND NAILS by Susan C. Taylor, M.D.
HarperCollins Publishers Inc., May 27, 2003
304 Pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 0060088710

Dr. Susan Taylor is an internationally renowned aesthetician and dermatologist, with expertise and knowledge in the area of African American women's skin care. In BROWN SKIN: DR SUSAN TAYLOR'S PRESCRIPTION FOR FLAWLESS SKIN, HAIR AND NAILS, she provides an abundance of information that focuses on the overall health and beauty of the skin, hair and nails of women of color.

BROWN SKIN dispels many of the beauty myths and misconceptions that have long permeated The African American community.  It explores the efficacy and dangers of many skin care products readily available on the market, but that come without much guidance.  It further outlines the latest advances in skin care, ranging from acid peels to laser surgery, and provides information on a host of dermatological manifestations in a wide range of medical conditions.

In a nutshell, BROWN SKIN is a complete guide for women of color, on how to enhance and protect their outer beauty.  Dr Taylor does a fascinating job of demystifying the scientific facts concerning this topic, and presenting them in layman's terms, readily understandable by her audience.  This book is a must read for women of color concerned with their physical appearance.

Reviewed by Autumn of The RAWSISTAZ^™ Reviewers


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MINION by L.A. Banks
St. Martin's Press, June 2003/ 288 Pages, Paperback
ISBN: 0312316801

Damali Richards is an entertainer who can bring crowds to their feet. But she is something else also. Something even more important but she doesn’t know that yet. As she finishes a performance in Philadelphia, the hair on the back of her neck begins to stand up. She and her group have chased vampires before. They’ve even been followed and attacked by vampires but tonight it is different and she can’t put her finger on it. As they cautiously leave the night club where they had performed, a deep silence and the scent of sulfur surrounds them. They know the battle is on as they take out their stakes, chimes, vials of holy water and UV lights. Soon they are surrounded by creatures from below and they must slash their way through them while avoiding being bitten, scratched or killed.

Successful in beating back the unholy horde, they escape to their specially designed house that is constantly lit by UV lights to ward off vampires. Restless, they try to brainstorm what this new danger means. Marlene, their leader, is strangely quiet as she watches Damali. Damali feels strange. Something is happening to her. Her ability to know what Marlene is thinking eludes her, she wants to go out even though she knows it’s dangerous and above all, she feels the need for a man in her life.

L.A. Banks has woven a fascinating modern day vampire saga that will keep you reading until the last page. Hooked on the story line, you find that you can’t wait for the sequel and Damali’s new adventure.

Reviewed by alice Holman of The RAWSISTAZ^™ Reviewers

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KNEE DEEP IN WONDER by April Reynolds
Metropolitan Books, September 2003
320 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 0805073469
   
Helene Strickland travels from her new home in Washington, DC to her childhood home in the Deep South after her Uncle Ed informs her that the aunt who raised her has passed away.  Upon her arrival, she comes face to face with some old demons that have haunted her her entire life. What happened to her father? Why did her mother give her away?  These are just a few of the questions that are left burning in her mind.
 
Since Helene knows she won't be able to get Ed to reveal the past to her, she decides to take a day trip to her mother's house in the small Arkansas town of Lafayette. What Helene finds there is the spirit of a six-year-old girl trapped in her middle-aged mother's body, the legend of her grandmother Liberty, and the remnants of the life of a man named Chess.  Still, Helene is determined to find out why things transpired the way they did. She's determined to find her roots.
 
KNEE DEEP IN WONDER is a tragic novel about family and the skeletons that most families harbor in their closets.  The writing is fluid and beautiful, yet poignant.  The story of the Strickland family is staggering, and Reynolds demonstrates in her book that some things are better left buried.
 
Reviewed by CandaceK of The RAWSISTAZ^™ Reviewers

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LOVE THY SISTER...WATCH THY BACK by Denise Campbell
Universal Write Publications, October 2003
322 Pages, Paperback
ISBN: 0974226912

There is an old saying that goes, "what goes around, comes around." LOVE THY SISTER...WATCH THY BACK is a story about five sisterfriends whose lives were entwined by one common thread and how their actions bear fruit in some unsuspecting ways. We meet self-centered Sasha, the attorney with a highly erotic nature. There is Sandra who is living on welfare and is HIV-positive. Kayla is trying to escape a past relationship that still dominates her life.  Charmaine is the resident lesbian, while Karen is described more or less as the doormat in the group. At first glimpse these ladies don't appear to have very much in common, but they have forged a bond that appears to be unbreakable. The common denominator holding the group together is Sasha.

For several years Sasha has used secrets and her egotistical nature to control her friends and sex to control the men in her life. That is until she hits a little bump in the road that threatens to ruin her life. When she rallies her friends around her, events begin to happen that will unravel years of secrets and betrayals.

Ladies, can you really trust your girlfriends? Denise Campbell has crafted an insightful tale about sisterhood that will have you
questioning your girls. Ms. Campbell used each of the main characters to depict a different relationship issue that females sometimes face. She introduces secondary characters to show how small the world we live in really is. The combination of friendship, betrayal, deceit and steamy sex made this novel hard for me to put down. I found myself glued from the very beginning to the climatic ending.

Reviewed by Brenda M. Lisbon of The RAWSISTAZ^™ Reviewers

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SOMEBODY'S SOMEONE: A MEMOIR by Regina Louise
Warner Books, June 2003
384 Pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 0446529109

Regina wanted to be somebody, anybody, someone loved. SOMEBODY'S SOMEONE: A MEMOIR by Regina Louise is the story of Regina Ollison told through the voice of a young Regina, age ten through fifteen.  We hear firsthand the account of her life as a foster child in Texas, North Carolina and finally California.  Regina deliberately and painstakingly lays before the reader a direct account of her ordeal as an unwanted child, and what an ordeal it was.  It was so much so that no child should be subjected to the life that Regina led.  While reading, a few questions came to mind such as, why was this child literally abandoned to a family friend with a history of harboring children and allowing them to be mistreated?  Were her parents so selfish not to want this child, but as the years went on, continued to have other children whom they treated like gold?  Were Regina's behaviors so incorrigible that she could not be loved? 

Through it all, Regina possessed a spirit of wanting, forgiveness and determination that literally saved her from herself and others.  At times her antics were humorous, but for the most part, this is a sad account, told with a strong southern dialect, which forces the reader to savor the message that Regina was trying to get across to the adults in her life.  Her voice resonates her need for a other and a family regardless of color, which is something that almost no one inside of the system captured.

While reading I was hoping to get a glimpse at Regina today and where she stands. I went to her website and discovered that she is doing wonderful things for children "caught" in the system.  She is artistically creative and continuously giving of herself through the arts.  Anyone who reads SOMEBODY'S SOMEONE: A MEMOIR will be affected by the life of Regina Louise.  I highly recommend this novel if you can stomach the pain that may come along with it.

Reviewed by Dawn R. Reeves of The RAWSISTAZ^™ Reviewers

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THE EMPEROR OF OCEAN PARK by Stephen L. Carter
Vintage Contemporaries, Vintage Books, 2003
654 pages, paperback
ISBN: 1400034159
  
Enthralling, commanding, and enticing: these are just a few adjectives describing Stephen L. Carter’s debut fiction novel THE EMPEROR OF OCEAN PARK. Beginning the escapade with the suspicious death of Professor Talcott Garland’s father, Judge Oliver Garland, Carter takes his readers on a whirlwind journey into the life of one of the only African-American professors tenured at an Ivy League law school.
 
Having lived a highly controversial and politically debatable life, Judge Garland made many enemies, and most of them surfaced after his death, all battling each other to ascertain the infamous “Arrangements” the judge left behind. However, the whereabouts of the “Arrangements” were entrusted to Talcott posthumously by his father in forms of riddles and clues, and uncovering his father’s secret threatens to take a devastating toll on Talcott’s marriage, his career and his very life. Readers search with Talcott as he struggles to maintain his family, his status at the law school, and his very sanity while traveling the eastern seaboard searching for the cure to the mental strain his father imposed on him. Digging through his family’s past and unearthing deadly secrets that should never see daylight, Talcott wanders in over his head and soon realizes, among other things, just the man his father was…and, consequently, just how much in danger he and his family really are.
 
Stephen L. Carter has written a novel that deals just as brazenly with American politics as it does with the work involved in preserving family. The characters he creates are bold, alive, and literally jump off the page and into your mind. He does an excellent job of depicting race relations in America, in the judicial
system, and in high society, while keeping the reader entertained with the mishaps and downfalls of Professor Garland. Aside from being extremely verbose
and dry in spots, The Emperor Of Ocean Park is beautifully constructed and Carter proves to be a remarkably creative storyteller. I highly recommend this novel to anyone looking for a great law driven mystery with outstanding plot twists, well-written characters, and vividly defined scenery. I applaud Carter for devising a social commentary that remains true to the African American culture.
Reviewed by Natasha T. of The RAWSISTAZ^™ Reviewers

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THAT FAITH, THAT TRUST, THAT LOVE by Jamellah Ellis
Villard, April 2003
352 Pages, Paperback
ISBN: 0812966562

Marley seems to have it all. She is about to marry Gerrard, a man that almost anyone would consider the ideal mate. Gerrard is from a prominent family and is on the fast track to a successful career and a life in politics. As the wedding date draws nearer Marley finds herself looking for a little more in her relationship. After trying counseling and just about anything else she can think of to make things better in the relationship Marley must decide how much she is willing to give up to make a relationship work. She also must learn to distinguish between her fairy tale image of love and relationships and the reality of being in a relationship with someone else. Will Gerrard and Marley find their way to nuptial bliss or will Marley decide that she needs more than what Gerrard can give her? Will she find true love?

Jamellah Ellis has written a touching story about one woman’s journey to a relationship with God, self acceptance, and ultimately marriage. Marley’s spiritual discoveries throughout the book keep you turning pages and cheering her on. The Christian messages in this book are subtle but powerful and never preachy. As Marley transitions from a woman who is at times hopeless and full of despair to a woman of faith in spite of the adversity she encounters the reader can really see and feel the change that occurred in her life as a result of having Christ in her life. In this way, Ellis has taught many valuable lessons without having to do so explicitly. I highly recommend THAT FAITH, THAT TRUST, THAT LOVE because it has so much to offer: a love story with a hint of drama, a story about family relationships that will tug at your heart, and a tale of spiritual growth all rolled into one enjoyable book.

Reviewed by Stacey Seay of The RAWSISTAZ^™ Reviewers

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A Sunday in June by Phyllis Alesia Perry
Hyperion Books, February 2004
371 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 0786868074

In a world of the unseen, The Mobleys are plagued by gifts that are not privy to the norm. Grace, Mary Nell and Eva, the daughters of Frank and Joy, are constantly driven to odds against the world. Amongst shattered dreams and stolen moments, the three girls are brought full circle, through turbulence, turmoil and coming of age.

Mary Nell and Eva share the sight of knowing the future. Growing up as little girls, they were inseparable; from the bed they slept in, to every waking thought. The painful process of growing up leads them through a whirlwind of events: Mary Nell gets married to the town’s bad boy, her husband rapes her sister Eva at thirteen and Eva gets pregnant and has a baby. Although Mary Nell witnessed the rape with her own “sight”, she still blames Eva for her husband’s disloyalty. After Eva’s rape, she is never the same and longs for the same sisterhood she shared with Mary Nell. Through all of this turmoil, Mary Nell develops a deep-seated resentment, and steals the very same baby from Eva that she could never give her own husband, developing a life of hatred and bitterness towards Eva.

Grace, the oldest, has the gift of knowing the past. Through this gift, she experiences hardship and pain, as her dead great-grandmother Bessie and her alter-ego Ayo’s spirit completely engulfs her on a regular basis. Not only does the spirit give her insight and depth of the struggles she endured as a slave while in Africa and the States, Grace also has the ability to feel the same pain as her grandmother did, complete with scars, blood and bruises. Grace gets married, has kids and tries to move on, but eventually has to leave everything behind, trying to run from the one thing that has always had full rein over her life…

Phyllis Alesia Perry does an excellent job of giving a true-to-life depiction of how the myth of having “the sight” may actually be true. A Sunday in June is a well-written, captivating story with depth, feeling and compassion. The characters portrayed in this novel are finely-tuned, keeping the readers entranced within the story. A refreshing look into the mystical realms of the unknown.

Reviewed by Belinda of The RAWSISTAZ^™ Reviewers

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CAN YOU FEEL ME? INTIMATE POETRY FOR THE WOMAN, THE WITCH, AND THE WHORE IN YOU by Victoria Warren
Favic Press, May 1999
111 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 0970742606

Being a woman is one of God's most precious and complicated gifts. Woman assume so many roles in life:wife, mother, lover and friend are the most visible roles. But in Victoria Warren's moving and beautiful book CAN YOU FEEL ME? INTIMATE POETRY FOR THE WOMAN, THE WITCH, AND THE WHORE IN YOU, she captures the true essence of a woman.

The poems are poignant, real and so inspirational. My favorite poem is titled Be Strong, it lets readers know that no matter what their obstacles are, God will always be there for them. He will sustain, love and carry when necessary. I highly recommend this book to everyone because it will inspire and uplift.

Reviewed by Simone A. Hawks of The RAWSISTAZ^™ Reviewers
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THE HONEY WELL by Gloria Mallette
Dafina Books, November 2003
298 Pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 075820468X

The HONEY WELL is a tale of shocking revelations. Esther Rayford has achieved her dream, she is quite prominent and now owns the Victorian Mansion where her mother once worked as a housekeeper. The mansion is reverently called The Honey Well by the frequent patrons who visit Esther's 'ladies-of-charm'. But the road to her affluence was paved on the back of her daughter, Arnell. Arnell hates the mansion with a passion.

When Arnell was sixteen, naively thinking that her mother would protect her, Esther put a price on her daughter's vagina. Seventeen years later Arnell cannot cut the umbilical cord to free herself from Queen Esther. She does however physically move from the mansion, acquire a degree, and become engaged to an up and coming politician. Although she is 33 years old, she is still emotionally dependent on her mother, Esther blackmails her into handling just one more client each time she tries to back away. Arnell hasvery little self esteem, butshe knows she cannot continue living this life of shameful secrets. The love, hate relationship between mother and daughter sometimes makes Arnell long to be a motherless child. This is not a situation where ‘mother knows best.’ When Esther introduces yet another sixteen year old to the business of the mansion, when snippets of Esther's past start to unfold and when an unforgivable night of lust involving Arnell's fiancé surfaces, Arnell has had enough. She accepts that Esther will never be the
mother she has always needed and she prepares for the battle of her life.

This one charters new territory for Ms. Mallette. It is gritty, melodramatic, and profane. Innuendo is out of place here; the action is in your face. And as with all of Ms. Mallette's books, there is a moral to this story, but your emotions will run the gamut before you will be able to accept it. This is indeed a page turner, and each turn ignites a fiery reaction.

Reviewed by aNN of The RAWSISTAZ™ Reviewers

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LITERARY LAW GUIDE FOR AUTHORS by Tonya Marie Evans and Susan Borden Evans
FYOS Entertainment, March 2003
208 Pages, Paperback
ISBN: 0967457963

The LITERARY LAW GUIDE FOR AUTHORS provides necessary information for all writers, both published and unpublished. The mysteries surrounding copyright, trademark, and contracts are explained in clear language absent the usual legalese that is normally predominant in this arena. Tonya Marie Evans and Susan Borden Evans give insight and debunk myths and misconceptions that have become legendary in the literary community. One of the most notable myths that is explained is the "Poorman's Copyright" that has grown into folklore among the novice writer community. The authors drive home the point that the only true way to protect your work is to register it with the U.S. Copyright Office.

The authors utilize a number of techniques often used in textbooks to illustrate their points. They highlight common myths, frequently asked questions, checklists and a number of other strategies designed to inform in an easy manner. The book also comes equipped with a CD-ROM which has sample forms, contracts, and instructions that provide a visual to topics which are discussed in the text.

Tonya Marie Evans and Susan Borden Evans provide insight and explanation in areas that are necessary for authors. This is an invaluable tool which serves as an introduction to the legal side of the business of writing.

Reviewed by Diane Marbury (HonestD) of The RAWSISTAZ™ Reviewers