Timur's Escape
Timur's Escape by Tabi Slick
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Now that the
business out of the way. Wow! I loved this story. It had political intrigue,
betrayal, murder and I love that couldn't be denied. The author painted such a
vivid picture of the Ottoman Empire that you could see the rich tapestry, the
architecture (the mosque Timur used as a quiet place). The characters truly
came to life. Timur's self-loathing. Emel's hurt at a sister's betrayal. I love
the electricity between the two when they shared their first encounter and then
their first kiss. The discovery that Emel knew of Timur's true nature was
handled so matter of factly that he didn't know what to expect. This was a
well-organized story with developed characters and a plot twist at the end that
threw me for a loop. I appreciated the historical note provided by the
author. It helped put into context why this era as chosen for her
story. It was also a good reminder of how cutthroat the political
world was (and still is on some level) including the mothers of
sons. Sons were vital to the success of an empire.
The author did her
homework to ensure that although this was a fictional story, it still held
accurate and true to its time frame. How will the fact that both sister's share
the same gift playout as this story develops? What will happen to the current
Sultan? The current regime? Emel's family? Book 2 where are you?
Now let's get you that book!
Reviewed by KayBee
#justmytwocents
The McClain Brothers Books 1- 4
The McClain Brothers by Alexandria House
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This review relates to all 4 books in the series thus far.
The couples
Book 1 - Let Me Love You
Big South & Jo
Book 2-Let Me Hold You
Leland & Kim
Book 3 Let Me Show You
Nolan & Bridgette
Book 4-Let Me Free You
Neil & Sage
This review relates to all 4 books in the series thus far.
This series introduces us to the McClain Brothers- Big South, Leland & twins Nolan & Neil, and the cast of hilarious supporting characters. The author delivers a diverse and developed cast of characters. The author executed the story so well that you felt the love and passion jump off the page. You were literally giving your own man or potential man the side-eye. You wanted the McClain treatment lol. The story was told in a way that you felt a part of them. With an expert pen, the author displays, not just informs, the reader of who these men and women were in each story. You knew them intimately and how they would react before they did.
From a structural perspective, the author did exactly what you should do to deliver an engaging story -captivate your audience from the onset, clearly define the conflict, have a moderate amount of angst with a satisfying resolution. She also engaged narrators that were able to further help bring these characters to life. The production quality was also excellent.
Of all the brothers, the stories that stood out the most to me were Big South's & Neil's. The way these two displayed their passion for the women in their lives and their own inner turmoil was palpable. This is especially true with Neil's story. Their (Neil & Sage) soul tie was emotional and heart wrenching at times. Leland's story was the most shocking with the abuse twist. The author did such a great job of handling the older woman/ younger man storyline that you didn't really think about it. Nolan's story didn't stand out to me as much because for me it lacked the level of passion and virility that the others had. And being a single mother myself, I could seriously relate to Jo's storyline in Book 1. This storyline of " money taking the place of quality time" is played out daily in many of our lives.
And the most famous McClain of them all was Uncle Lee Chester and his sexual advice that didn't quite hit the mark or "the click".
Now let's get you that series!
Now let's get you that series!
Obsessive Intoxication: A Twisted Tale of Impulsive Desire and Love's Dark Side
Obsessive Intoxication: A Twisted Tale of Impulsive Desire and Love's Dark Side by Stevie Kinchen
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
The story opens with our primary character 20-year-old college student Diana in pain over losing the love of her life. She's cutting herself and she's screaming out loud (literally) in pain. No one hears her in the home. She's loved this person since she was 15 and he was a 34-year-old instructor at her school. While her mother treats Diana as if she's a pre-teen, her father and older sister treat her harshly and with little regard to how their words will impact her. I won't reveal the connection the "love of her life" has to the family. But needless to say, he is an intricate member of the family. As the story builds and you are anticipating a major reveal and showdown, it drops you. The ending /showdown is wrapped up in 3 very short sentences as if the author ran out of steam. Unfortunately, this story was a very difficult read. Not because the topic was difficult to follow or that the story was not one that didn't have "legs", but it was riddled with inconsistencies. I think for me to provide constructive feedback on this review, I'll use a pro, cons and random bullet point format with examples.
Pros
> The plot
> Familial dysfunction touched on
> Addressing unhealthy relationships and associations
> Incorporating the voodoo element to honor Louisiana
Cons
> Underdeveloped characters
> Little to no formatting or structure
> Sophomoric & stilted dialogue didn't seem to fit the characters or the story
> Poor execution
> Poor transitions
> Incorrect word usage Example " My heart harms when I see him with my sister" OR
> Diana says she cuts herself on a package she was trying to open and Michelle responds "Do you expect me to believe your hocus pocus?"
> Contradictory statements Example - Michelle instructs Diana to get a kettle out for tea. Michelle then states "What are you doing? Did I say to get the kettle?" or after Michelle instructs Diana to put the kettle on the stove, Diana responds I don’t know how and then two sentences later screams " I know how to make tea" and details the steps.
Random-
> Who were the characters? Why were they so cold toward each other?
> Why did Diana love Xavier so deeply?
> Xavier was no longer her teacher, but he called her baby and she called him sir. Their interaction implies a D/S element. Was this the case?
> What happened to Diana?
> Is there a part two that resolves all the unanswered questions?
I would love to see this story re-formatted, re-edited and re-released. This is a good story that got lost in execution. And I am positive this project is not indicative of the author's talent. That being said, please read for yourself and be sure to leave a constructive review.
Now let's get you that book!
Reviewed by KayBee
#justmytwocents
You’re a Part Of Me
You’re Apart Of Me by Shameek Speight
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I knew in choosing this book, I was in for a few things horror, grotesque killing scenes and that rare form of crazy that this writer brings. I wanted something different and wild and that's exactly what I got. Melody's story did not disappoint. She came from a tight-knit loving family of ...well I don't want to give that away that tidbit. Although, you can figure it out pretty early on in the story. Melody wanted to love & be loved. She wanted happiness with her soul mate but was unlucky in love. She "hunted" for love and whenever she thought she had it, the many men failed to live up to their promises. When that didn't work, she sought out one night stands to fulfill her carnal needs. This was a quick, entertaining read with a few grammatical errors. From the graphic opening scene to its ending, in the same manner, I couldn't stop reading or chuckling. I wonder if she'll ever find love?
Now let's get you that book!
Reviewed by KayBee
#justmytwocents
I Know He's Evil
I Know He’s Evil by Shameek Speight
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
There is a single mother killer on the loose and all is not what it seems. This book touched on and then drove home a fear that MANY single mothers fear. And that is bringing someone into your life and your child or children's lives that will bring harm to you. From the plot setup to character development and story execution, the author completed all with a very vivid pen. The scenes were quite vivid and if you know this Author, you know it can be graphic. Even though you knew who the "killer" was early on, the author still did a great job of taking us on the ride to the final reveal and twist. The killer never left any clues and always seemed one step ahead of the police. The story moved along at a moderate pace and kept you engaged enough so as not to lose your interest at any point. I really enjoyed this book. (What does that say about me right? lol ) Single mothers beware.
Now let's get you that book!
Reviewed by KayBee
#justmytwocents
The Maiden's Song (The Seeds of Hope Book 1)
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
First, It took me a minute to start the book. It has a whopping 769 pages. I don't think I had read a book that long since A Song of Ice & Fire, especially a fantasy book.
The story of Mouse and Seldy's journey and how they are entangled was very well written and properly executed in format and structure. The author weaves with intricate detail the journey to come. I can't say much without giving it away. The Author did an amazing job of developing the characters and allowing their story to unfold organically. He mixed that with a host of interesting and vital supporting characters. Through his words, I could almost feel each scene and the emotions, especially the pain, that was endured. I liked the fact that the Author didn't just tell us of the personal growth, but it was demonstrated through action and the reactions of our primary character. While lengthy, the story did manage to keep me engaged enough to want to complete and find out what's next in this story. Mr. Pierce has set a high standard for himself that I hope is maintained in the sequel.
“The Enemy comes for you, child. A foe like no other. The night will be long and dark. The dangers will seem too great. But you must find your song, child, even when that seems impossible...”
You'll have to read it to find out why those words are relevant and important.
Reviewed by KayBee
#justmytwocentsComing Soon: A Love that Inspires
A Love That Inspires by Frank Chatmon gives voice to God’s love for his people along with poetic tributes of a God-fearing man’s love for a woman. The poetry collection moves easily in out and out of the heart of a man that has given, received, and lost love in his life. The poems show that the poet never gives up hope in Christ and for the perfect true love that God has created for him. This book flows fluidly to demonstrate that loving God yields the heart to love oneself and others.
Excerpt:
A Love That Inspires gives voice to God’s love for his people along with poetic tributes of a God-fearing man’s love for a woman. The poetry collection moves easily in out and out of the heart of a man that has given, received, and lost love in his life. The poems show that the poet never gives up hope in Christ and for the perfect true love that God has created for him. This book flows fluidly to demonstrate that loving God yields the heart to love oneself and others.
Author Bio:
Frank D. Chatmon was called to the ministry at the age of eighteen. He answered his call at twenty-one years of age and entered the ministry. Frank’s favorite subject in school was English. His passion for the English language has catapulted him into a love for writing romantic poetry, love stories, and inspirational prose. The author’s ambition is to become a prolific writer and create literature that cheers the hearts of everyone.
You can contact the Frank Chatmon:
BECKY UNCHAINED
BECKY UNCHAINED by KING MILLI
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
First things first- I loved the cover and wow that opening was an attention grabber. I felt every bit of Pamela's emotion. This story dealt with a problem as old as time in the black community "colorism".
Pamela a strong, educated black woman married Darius. Pamela was made to feel that her dark skin was inferior to those with lighter or white skin. The author does a great job with the young Pamela and the school psychologist. While she went on to educate herself and become a top performer in her field, she, unfortunately, attracted and married someone who hated himself and his blackness. Self-hatred was something that was ingrained in him as a child by his father's words and actions. After having "arrived", Darius cheats with Becky. Becky, who thinks that her success resides solely in the pockets of a rich man. So she sets her sights on Darius who is all too willing to oblige. Becky's mother, Charlene, tries to warn her daughter to no avail. She knew Darius' wife and knew she was a good woman.
As the relationship between Darius & Becky forges ahead, we see the deterioration of the relationship between him and his children as well as his protégé. In each interaction with his protégé, the conversation is the same hate-filled diatribe. You could feel Michael, the protégé, getting fed-up with the monotonous rhetoric. Especially the more he forces his lifestyle on him. His son turned away from him, while his daughter dated an older man.
All of the hate and mistreatment of his family and friends comes to an end with one conversation from his father. This conversation motivates him to move forward and mend broken relationships and ultimately himself. I won't share the outcomes for all, but this story quickly became Darius after the first chapter and I think it was a great way to go.
There were a few formatting and structural issues (incomplete sentences, tense change mid-sentence, character mix-ups, and unclear transitions) that made for a confusing read at times, but the overall message was not lost. This was Darius' story and his supporting cast helped tell it.
Now let's get you that book!
Reviewed by KayBee
#justmytwocents
Taste: An Erotic Novella
Taste: An Erotic Novella by Fatima Munroe
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
You never know where love and PASSION will find you. Well, apparently it's in an Uber and I need one. Lyric is married to Nolan, who has become complacent and selfish in their marriage. You'll have to read to see what I mean.
Yes. This story is billed as erotica and it is don't go get me wrong. However, the author does a great job of having the story of Lilly and Thad not rely on the hot sex scenes, you got an actual story as well. And just when you've found your footing, the Author throws a twist into the mix that you were not expecting (cough Nolan). You are given lust, love, and witty banter. But, I have to go now my Uber is waiting ;)
Reviewed by KayBee
#justmytwocents
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Underneath Earl's Bed
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I was a little hesitant going into this story. A dust Bunny, Dustyn, longs to explore. He hails from a community of dust bunnies that lived in the attic of the Earl's home where a black widow reigned with terror. The story takes us through the perils of growing up in the dust bunny community and dealing with the Black Widow to his teenagers years and having more trials to face into adulthood and why he needs to leave his home under Earl's bed or did he. The revelation of Harold's outcome and how it related to Earl's toy from his grandfather was an interesting twist. The Black Widow's "evil" gift and what it was prompting young earl to do gave the story a terrifying aspect. Dustyn with his friends X and Colate work to defeat a common enemy in a show of love, friendship, and unity. This story was a cross between Toy Story and Nightmare on Elm Street. The author touches on a few very important topics that all young people have to deal with as they mature - bullying, a lack of self-confidence and awareness. I think the author is talented and the places his mind went to craft this world is a story for another post. I would place this book firmly in the pre-teen section of dark fantasy. The author is young and only has room to grow and mature in the craft. I look forward to seeing what's next.
Now let's get you that book!
Reviewed by KayBee
#justmytwocents
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We Smash Teachers by King Milli
This was my first read by this author. So I am unfamiliar with his writing style or creative process. This story was about Bianca a married woman who enjoyed the danger and "freakiness" of 18yr olds. While her conquests are legal, the relationship is inappropriate because she is their teacher. The primary focus is on Bianca, Jason and Michael, 18yr old best friends. Bianca's lackluster sexual relationship with her husband, a Jerry Springer moment & leaked video leads to her sexual exploits being divulged and she becomes the "hot topic" on social media and the news. Michael, the reckless one, is forced to mature in a way that he did not readily accept. Jason, the respectful one, faces a harsh truth about life and love as does Bianca.
As far as structure & content, the story presented as more of an outline that was not fleshed out. Don't get me wrong this story was chocked full of potential to make the characters, as well as their individual storylines, pop. But this version, it felt incomplete & as if we were given the bare minimum. The story was not developed completely nor were the characters. For these reasons, the story did not flow or engage me as a reader. There was a lot of repetition especially any scenes between Michael and any male character. There were definitely missed opportunities to entertain and inform i.e. Michael's involvement with the cheerleader, the husband's reaction upon learning of Bianca's deeds. There were some good points to focus on -abstinence, positions of authority and sex, black excellence. But without something to grab your attention and keep it, those points are glossed over and given little thought. Unfortunately, the most provocative thing about this story was the title………at least for this reader. All that being said, please read it for yourself as we all receive stories differently. There is a new edition of the book that was released. I may go back and read that version to see if it changes how I received this story.
Reviewed by KayBee
#justmytwocents
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