London Lust by Renee Wyckoff

@ReneeWyckoff #streetlit #urbanfiction

London Lust 
by Renee Wyckoff
Rating 2stars

Description:
Victoria is living the good life that any woman would want and that includes; being the owner of Illinois Soothing Day Spa, and marrying the love of her life who just happens to be the owner of a fortune 500 business called Fine Craft. So where did she go wrong? How did she go from vacationing in London and planning to go to Paris with her husband, to having her heart broken? How far will she go to exact revenge for the hurt and deceit done to her by the very ones she called her friends?

My Review:
Cover - I am a shoulder and upper back girl. The guy in the cover has honey...don't like his elbows though. The girl, sorry but she posing sexy but she looks creepy. It's her eyes.

The good:
The story was juicy. Victoria life was a too good to be true fairy tale. Her husband is the first guy she ever slept with as well as her childhood friend. Although they had one hiccup when they were growing up they were the perfect couple. They loved each and after all those yearsof being together they still was passionate. Then come the trip to London. Unfortunately they both planned to do some dirt. And well...where there is dirt there is drama. The story ends with a few deaths, a new life, and a cliffhanger.

The Bad:
The writing on this was distracting. The were formatting issues and typos. Basically things that basic editing should have caught. The story was often choppy and all over the place. Some times you had to go back to find out who was the main character for the chapter. For a book that has less than 100 pages, one should not have to go back to find who is saying what to whom.

Quote:
“One day, there will come a time when you don’t know your ass from a hole in the ground..” and you start recapping your life and asking yourself should I have made the choices I made, or should I have did things differently?

Should you read it? If you like urban fiction. Who should ad it? See previos answer. If you don't like urban fiction or are new to the genre this is not the book for you.

BUY

AMAZON

He Was My Man First by Flowers & Parker

He Was My Man First

By Nancey Flowers & Courtney Parker

pgs 338
rating 4stars

From Goodreads:

     Valentine Daye is a product of the streets. Raised in the projects, she lost her father and her mother young. By fifteen, she was living the life with drug lord Colombo. But when Colombo and his crew are murdered, Richard Washington, one of Colombo’s many street runners, swoops in and wastes no time making Valentine his queen.
     Nine years later, Valentine and Rich are a happy couple who have weathered some “minor” problems. Valentine is well aware that Rich steps out on her. But doesn’t every man? He always finds his way home. Or at least he did before Vanessa Knight.
     Vanessa Knight is a woman who has everything . . . except Richard Washington. An heiress to a multimillion-dollar company, Vanessa is willing to forgive Rich’s flawed background. However, she wants him for herself, and tells him that he must decide what’s important to him—a flourishing career at clothier Jorge Jacobs, where she can make him a VP, or a life with his street past, Valentine?.
      When Daye meets Knight, each woman plots and schemes to steal Rich’s heart. Rich must make a decision. Does he gamble and start a new life with the beautiful and cunning Vanessa, or does he stay with his around-the-way girl Valentine, who has been with him through thick and thin?

My Review:

     He Was My Man First is a fast paced book about love, lost, and lies. I had a problem with all the characters in this book. Let’s start with Vanessa. She comes from somewhat old money though in my opinion having your great grandfather make a fortune doesn’t count as old money to me. To those who have “real” old money 3 generations of wealth is still new damn money so what her and her family really is just a bunch of siddities who have forgotten where they come from. Anyway…she lost her love to a car accident which she blames herself for. Since then she has become all about using people to get what she wants. At first, Richard was just a means to get herself a higher position in the company but then she starts to catching feelings. All the while, she enjoys what they affair is doing to Valentine. I have no sympathy for Vanessa. The back story of how her fiancée died was suppose to stir up some empathy for her character but it didn’t not work for me. No she wasn’t exactly responsible for his death but her actions were insensitive and added to the circumstance of his death.

            On to Richard, like some many men out there he enjoys having his cake and eating it too. Unfaithful and selfish are the two words to describe his character. He’s the type that likes to have his main chick and have a girl on the side. He says and does whatever he has to to get over on them including using the word love. What is sad about men like him is that they usually do have love for the woman they are dogging out but they love themselves and their wants more.

            Now to Valentine, having a abusive relationship with her first man does tend to make any relationship after that seem great but her rationale for Richard was pathetic. She never blamed him for any of the cheating that he did. It was always the chick fault because hey…men cheat. Even if that is true, one doesn’t just go along with the program. Men cheat because the main woman tolerates and the side chick(s) don’t care. If women refuse to deal with infidelities there would be a lot less of it. Valentine annoyed me to no end. I do like how she finally got a clue though she had to be put in a situation in order to get it. I also like the ending. I can’t speak on it without giving it away but there is never one way to do things and I don’t disagree with the path she chose. TBR list 2

Challenges:
2012 50 State Reading Challenge
2012 Romance Reading Challenge

Fun and Games 2012:
Bunnita Reading Travel Buggie

Little Ghetto Girl by Danielle Santiago

Little Ghetto Girl by Danielle Santiago
Hardcover pgs 197
06/19/2011
rating: 3stars

from back of book:


After a successful life in the drug game, twenty-one-year-old Kisa Kane plans to retire - settle down, find a good man and raise a family of her own. Done with the thug life , she has everything a ghetto girl would want: plenty of money, drop-dead-gorgeous looks, and two thriving legitimate businesses. Until she falls in love with Sincere Montega, a powerful drug dealer whose down-and-dirty money pulls Kisa back into the world she is trying so hard to leave behind. With lies, cheating, and conflict, Kai, their newborn, may be the only reason for this couple to stay together, but their lives are ineviably changed in the most unexpected way the only way the streets of Harlem can.


My Review:
I have said it before, I will say it now, and I will say it again. What is with all the brand name dropping in urban/street fiction, hell name dropping period? It is so not necessary for a good story. The characters are always ghetto beauties. Will anyone break the forumla? I am in search for it. Anyway on to the review. Good looking girl meets good looking guy. Both are involved in the streets. They love, they fight, they have beef with others, and in the end they have a happy ending.

What did stand out for me in this story is the jealousy of Kisa's sister Shea (same father different mother). Shea is as grimy as a sibling can get. All and all this is a good urban/street fiction story. I did not like the writing style of the story though. Kisa said. Sincere said. And it jumped forward too much. Also the sex scene where not written out which is actually a change for this genre. I missed the explict sex scenes. I rated this 3 stars because there were points when I was really interested in what was going to happen next. TBR list #4 really there's no rush.


Challenges:
Off the Shelf Challenge
What's in a Name 4
2011 Where Are You Reading

Payback With Ya Life by Wahida Clark

Payback With Ya Life by Wahida Clark
Tradeback pgs.302
rating:3.5stars
05/15/2011


From back of book:
She lost her integrity, her best friend…and nearly wound up dead. Now Shan is making her move, far away from Memphis’s mean streets, to wipe the slate clean and start over. But she can’t hold back what she’s feeling for Briggen, a wealthy drug dealer who want her to be his one and only for life. Her brother, Peanut, can’t afford to lose her – or the one shot he has at getting back on top of the drug game. And the ruthless convict who tricked Shan into loving him is out of lockdown…and out to settle lethal scores with her and Peanut. Now, with everything at stake and a vicious turf war taking no prisoners, Shan must put it all on the line to save her future - or die trying.


My Reviews:

This was a good book but it did not hold my attention for long periods of time. Usually I can read these books in 2 to 3 days it took over a week for this one. There was a lot going on. Fans of urban fiction will like this as it gives you all that you've come to expected from these types of books. Clark touched on just about every subject in this book. Miscarrages, infidelty, drug dealing, prison, murder, rape...you name it, it's in here. TBR list#3 *if you are not an urban lit fan this is NOT for you


Challenges:
Clue Board Reading Challenge
2011 Where Are You Reading?
Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge 2011

Just Too Good to Be True by E. Lynn Harris

Just Too Good to Be True by E. Lynn Harris
narrators: Adenrele Ojo, Bahni Turpin, Mirron Willis
8cds 10hrs
rating: 3stars

From back of book:

Harris serves up a treat that will capture and enchant audiences everywhere—a big, bold, and irresistible novel about football, family, and secrets.

Brady Bledsoe and his mother, Carmyn, have a strong relationship. A single mother, faithful churchgoer, and the owner of several successful Atlanta beauty salons, Carmyn has devoted herself to her son and his dream of becoming a professional football player. Brady has always followed her lead, including becoming a member of the church’s "Celibacy Circle." Now in his senior year at college, the smart, and very handsome, Brady is a lead contender for the Heisman Trophy and a spot in the NFL.

As sports agents hover around Brady, Barrett, a beautiful and charming cheerleader, sets her mind on tempting the celibate Brady and getting a piece of his multimillion-dollar future—but is that all she wants from him, and is she acting alone?

Carmyn is determined to protect her son. She’s also determined to protect the secret she’s kept from Brady his whole life. As things heat up on campus and Carmyn and Brady’s idyllic relationship starts to crumble, mother and son begin to wonder about the other—are you just too good to be true?

A sweeping novel about mothers and sons, football and beauty shops, secrets and lies, JUST TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE has all the ingredients that have made E. Lynn Harris a bestselling author: family, friendship, faith, and love.

My Review:
First I must say that the first person to start the narration for this voice made me cringe. I did not like her voice at all.

This story is about a college football player who mother brings him up with Christian values. He took an oath to save himself until marriage but breaks it after he falls in love. When a cheerleader with her own motives set her eyes on him Brady world is turned upside down. He finds out that everyone he thought he could trust has told him lies. He becomes lost. The is a book about how lies will eventually expose themselves. It is also about forgiveness and how your actions affect yourself and others.

*was lost on the name Brady (Tom Brady) Bledsoe (Drew Bledsoe)...not sure if this is where Harris got the name from but these two players are known to be/been the best in football and the character is suppose to be best of the college football team he plays for.

Challenges:
Whisper Stories in My Ear 2011

Spontaneous by Brenda Jackson

Spontaneous by Brenda Jackson
Ebook pgs. 129
rating 3stars
05/08/2011

From back of book:
Kimani Cannon knows she's in trouble the second she lays eyes on 6'4" of luscious male. The best kind of trouble, too…mm-mmm! Duan Jeffries turns out to be the perfect man—charming, considerate…and the best lover she's ever had. Too bad Mr. Delicious is just a one-night stand….



Until Kim needs a date to her mother's (fifth) wedding! Duan's willing to act the part of her fiancé… as long as it means full benefits. More amazing sex? No problem!

Then Kim finds out that Duan's got his own private agenda. Suddenly, she doesn't know what to believe. Her head and heart are telling her to be careful. But the sensual thrumming in her blood is turning out to be much more persuasive….



My Review:


This should have been a face paced book but for some reason it took me a while to read it. The plot was great. It centers around a steamy sexual affair turned romance between the two main characters. Jackson also was able to throw in a bit of suspense with the storyline concerning Kim mother's fiance. TBR List #4 though it was good there's no rush to read this.

Challenges:
2011 Sexy Reading Challenge
2011 Chick Lit Challenge
2011 Where Are You Reading?

The Hood Life by Meesha Mink and De'nesha Diamond

The Hood Life by Meesha Mink and De'nesha Diamond

Tradeback pgs 303

4.5 stars

04/16/2011

From the back of book:

A pimp, a killer, a playa, and a drug dealer struggle to get their game right in a sizzling novel where leaving the life and trying to go straight is a deadly option.

Tavon, better known as "Sweet," would pimp his own mother — and he does. Convinced that the prostitution game chose him, Sweet loves his high-rolling life. But when he unexpectedly becomes a father, will Sweet be able to choose between the family trade and his grown, not-so-innocent daughter?

After ten years in prison, the drive-by Demarcus committed still haunts him. Determined to stay above the law, he's found Allah, promised to change his ways forever, and finally do right by his girl, Zoey. But when an opportunity arises that will set him and Zoey right for life, Demarcus may have more faith in his killah reputation than the Koran....

Kaseem runs every single drug going in and out of Bentley Manor. His empire provides clothes, cash, and his satisfaction of his wifey, Quilla — along with the company of other ladies, of course. But when Kaseem's crew becomes more violent, will he be able to escape the life — and the gangsters — he created?

The best playa on the block, Rhakmon can get a woman to do anything he wants. His latest girlfriend, Shaterica, lets him steal, lie, and cheat — smitten to be under his spell. But when Rhakmon's devious deeds are finally brought to light, the revenge Shaterica plans may ultimately be more horrible than anything he could have imagined....

My Review: Well the ladies have done it again. The book is fast paced. I like that it focuses on four men this time around. There are so many WTF moments. It start right in the first couple of pages. I mean this things that Tavon is make you think what in the world is up with that?! As usually the ladies keep you up on your toes with the twists and turns. This is book three in the trioloyg of the Bentley Manor series though I hope that there will be another.

After all, there are some characters I would love to know what happened after the the drama. Like what are Lexi, WooWoo, and Aisha up to. Apparently WooWoo is visiting Has in jail so what is going on with that. Princess became a singer and we all know there's drama in Hollywood. What happens with Sweet aka Tavon? How about Rhakmon and Kaseem? Come on ladies don't leave us hanging like this. TBR list #1

challenges:

Buy One Book & Read It

Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge 2011

Chaser by Miasha

Chaser by Miasha

3stars

03/02/2011

From back of book:

Leah -- Young, beautiful, and in love with the wrong man. Distraught after her boyfriend Kenny sets her up to take the fall in yet another of his schemes, Leah has no choice but to strike a deal with the police. Her world changes overnight, and maintaining her composure while gathering information is no easy task. And then she meets Nasir... Nasir -- All he's ever wanted to do is make his family proud. Ambitious and hardworking, Nasir is a good man, but he owes a debt to a former friend -- and regardless of how many times he's paid it back, Kenny will never let him forget it... Kenny -- Money reigns supreme in Kenny's world and he'll stop at nothing to get more of it. Kenny would lie, cheat, and even kill to protect his empire. There is no such thing as loyalty as far as he's concerned. And he's starting to realize that his girlfriend Leah is standing in his way... Smart, sexy, and undeniably thrilling, Chaser is exactly what Miasha's legions of fans have been waiting for.

My Review:

The title of the book can have two different meanings. Chaser could be the type of work that both of the male characters engaged in. Chaser are the tow truck drivers who show up at car accidents...they chase wrecks. Chaser could also mean paper chaser. One of the main characters, Kenny, is a huge paper chaser. He will do whatever he can to get money be it drugs or an auto insurance scam. Things heat up when Leah and Nasir start to spend time together.

This is a fast paced book. The novel starts off with a bang. Talk about grabbing the reader with the first page. I enjoyed this book. It isn't a favorite but it is a good read. TBR list #3

Baby Momma Drama by Carl Weber

Baby Momma Drama by Carl Weber
3.5stars
02/24/2011
Tradeback $15
pages 311
published: 2003


From back of the book:
Older sister Jasmine, a postal worker in Richmond, Virginia, is working hard, saving money, and waiting for the right man to walk into her life. And in fine-dressing, smooth-talking attorney Derrick, she thinks she's found him. Derrick is generous, gorgeous, and oh-so-sexy. But all it takes is some pointed questions from Jasmine's shrewd granny Big Momma to expose her man as nothing more than a lying, drug-dealing hustler. Refusing to admit she's been played, Jasmine chooses to remain faithful to Derrick while he's doing time. That is, until she finds him in a clinch on visiting day with his baby's momma, Wendy. Derrick's big mistake with Wendy pushes Jasmine even further toward the arms of good friend-and good man-Dylan. But when yet another baby momma comes into the picture, Jasmine will have to decide whether the right love is worth the complications that come with it

Little sister Stephanie is looking for a good time, not a good man, although she finds both in sweet, loyal Travis. Before she knows it, a one-night fling has turned into a three-year relationship. But then, Malek, Stephanie's sexy high school sweetheart and the father of her adorable son, swings back into town and that wild part of her wants another taste of the one that got away. Right in the middle of wedding planning, Stephanie falls into a crazy affair with Malek-one that could destroy the best thing that ever happened to her. Big Momma tries to keep Stephanie's little family together, but a woman has to take care of her own life and for Stephanie, part of keeping things real will be learning how to lie in the bed she made for herself. Now that she's the momma, maybe it's time to start acting like a grownup

My Review:
Main characters are Jasmine, Stephanie, Travis, and Dylan. What did I think about the characters? I felt like all the characters were in a rush to be in relationships. None of them just too time out to reflect on what went wrong with the last relationship.

Jasmine was judgemental quick to finding fault with how other woman dealt with men and judging those men. The same is true about Stephanie. Travis was a good man but should have put his foot down every now and then. And he shouldn't have tried to buy her love. Buying things do not make someone love you and does not make one a good man. Dylan was perhaps the only person who had most things right though he waited way too long for Monica.

There are book club discussion questions at the end I will answer those now but I will not type out the questions. So here goes:

I have dated someone who have been in prison. I have dated a few guys who have been in prison. When I was younger I definitely went for the bad boys. An ex of mine was in and out of jail...a lot. So yeah, I know what it's like to date someone in da joint. Most have some of the same things in common. They put work above almost everything else. They tend to cheat. And is not above them to manipulate emotions to work in their favor.

If I could have any man from the book it would have been Dylan. Travis was ok but he just didn't appeal all the way with me. Dylan has a loyal friend,, faithful boyfriend, and sexy lover quality. Malek and Derek, well I've known several of men like them. I think there are many women who would agree with the statement "good sex will keep you in a bad situation."

Now Big Momma. She is like many nosy mother figures in family. The thing about giving advice is that you can give it but it doesn't mean the person receiving it has to take it. Nagging never fixed anything, in fact, some times it makes a person want to do the opposite. Also it makes people not want to come to you when something is going on.

The story was well told. It is a fast paced novel. The plot moved forward from the point of view of the four main characters. I would have given this novel 4stars but there were times when I wanted to smack the crap out of a couple characters, mainly Jasmine and Big Momma. Also I didn't like the way the character jump right into a relationship. It was like the were all afraid of taking some time. Especially Travis, I don't want to reveal what he did because it takes away from some of the story but let's just say shame on him, not for Stephanie's sake but his own. I saw myself in some of the characters so it was very for me to relate and that gives why I added the .5. The overall meaning of the storyline is two things. One, people treat you the way you allow them to treat you. Second, appreciate what you have before it's gone.
TBR list #3

Challenges
Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge 2011
What's in a Name 4
2011 Where Are You Reading?

The Color Purple by Alice Walker

The Color Purple by Alice Walker

Rated 4.5 stars

I love the movie The Color Purple. Heck, purple is my favorite color. I have read this book once before but so fast that I didn't retain much. This time around I paid attention. There are so many difference between the book and the movie. I won't get into the differences because well...you need to read them for yourself. I will say this, the movie added things or changed things for dramatic effect. There were also other events that were more mild than in the book.

The relationship between Celie and Shug has more detail. In fact, all the relationships are deeper than those protrayed in the movie. Any opinions you may have formed about the character may just change as you get an expand view of them. The book is written in journal/letter form. If you remember the movie, Celie always said Dear God and then tell you about what's gonna on. Later when she finds Nettie letters Dear God turns to Dear Celie. This is how the entire books is written. There are no chapter just letter format. It is a fast read however, Celie's Dear God entries are written they way she speaks so words are not spelled correctly. This may slow you up a bit but not too much I think. This should go on you to be read list.

Challenges:

Heroines Bookshelf Reading Challenge

2011 Where Are You Reading?

Round The World Passage 2011

Thug Matrimony by Wahida Clark

Thug Matrimony
by Wahida Clark
4 stars

Angel, Jaz, Tasha, and Kyra are four girlfriends pulling themselves out of the ghetto--and trying to bring their hearts up to higher ground with them. Now Angel has started her own law practice and a new life with Kaylin, a drug dealer who's stepped out of the game to run a recycling business and hot new record label. But when an unwanted guest crashes their wedding, all the rage and bloodlust from the hood comes bustin' out--and Angel's gonna need every prayer in heaven to make it to the altar alive...
synopsis from flipkart

This is the third book in the series. I read this book first. This story has it all. Wedding drama, ex boyfriend who use to be a pimp drama, Mexican mafia drama, will man man wake up out of this coma drama, my past is coming back to beat me in the ass drama with heaping handfuls of jealousy, violence, and sex. The characters came to life and Kaylin well...damn need I mention the tied up scene in book two! It's another winner in the series people.

Urban Street Hip Hop Fiction

Urban Street Hip Hop Fiction

Whatever you chose to call it. It is the genre that stirs controversy. At the end of the day, however, it is the readers who matter and us readers say with love the genre. Here is what I have to say about it.

In this genre the reader is taken on a pretty realistic ride of how some women really react to men in this lifestyle. There are so many uncertainties that comes along with dating a man in the "life". Will he go to jail? Will he get shot? Will the police show up at the door wanting to search your home? Will a rival target you as a way to get back at him? Then you have all the regular worries that many women have about their men but amplified because the type of life he's living. Men in the "life" are always out and about. If he's making money than you can bet there are going to be females sniffing around so if being faithful. These types of men can put you on an emotional rollercoster.

I called this types of books hood fairy tales though. I'm sorry but most thugs are not making the kind of paper the men in these books are making. The men in these books always do and say the right things. The men in these books always packing the goods between their legs and know how to turn their women out. Well a man with a good package is not a guarantee for good sex. And I think every woman who has slept with more than one man can tell you that not every man can satisfy let alone throw it down.

So these are fairy tales for woman who like men who's rough around the edges but gentle and sweet when he deals with her. Disney has their Cinderella and Snow White waiting for Prince Charming but us little girls who up in the hood wanted that dude who all the other females wanted. He was the one who always had on the freshest gear. The dope ride. The body that made the panties wet just from looking at him. Besides, who does like the bad boy? The guy you know is no damn good for you and that just makes you want him more. You want to be the one to tame the beast. But ladies remember it's all a fairy tale, you can't tame him until he's ready to be tame.

Every Thug Needs A Lady by Wahida Clark

Every Thug Needs A Lady

By Wahida Clark

4 stars 10/24/2010

Sexy, beautiful Roz has escaped from the hard streets and is on her way to a professional career in physical therapy. She doesn't need to make a U-turn back to the ghetto. But then she meets Trae, who's still after the bling bling and fast money of drugs. He's hard, hot, irresistible--and trouble. Soon Roz is wild for a brother whose world is filled with dark schemes and deadly desire. But blinded by her passion, she can't see the heartbreak ahead where the 'hood has a law of its own--and its own brand of revenge...

synopsis from flipkart

This is the second novel in the Thug series. It hits you with a shocker of a story right at the beginning (page 13) when Roz reveals her past to her friends. The novel focuses mostly of the relationship between Roz (Tash) and Trae. The side couple is the budding romance between Angel and Kaylin. I have not read the first book in the series yet so I can tell you that you can read this series out of order as I have already read the third book. This book does not disappoint as a sequel.

When I was looking for the synopsis I came across some good reviews a couple stood out. One did not understand the reason why Roz was being called Tash. I not Wahida so I can't say why she did it but I can say that I had a boyfriend who called me by my middle name. He said that he did not want to call me by a name that every one else used so maybe that is the same type of thinking Wahida had in mind for Trae's character as well.

Desperate Hoodwives by De'nesha Diamond & Meesha Mink

Desperate Hoodwives

by De'nesha Diamond and Meesha Mink

4 stars 10/16/2010

DREAMS OFTEN DIE IN THE PROJECTS
In the first book of a drama-drenched new series, four unforgettablewomen will do anything to escape the hood.

From their front stoops at Bentley Manor, longtime residents Miz Osceolaand Miz Cleo have seen just about everything and know all too well thatthere's no happily-ever-after in the projects. There's only the desperateneed to get out by any means possible.

Aisha has what every other ghetto girl envies: a loving man whosupplies her with all the fashion, money, and accessories that scream"hood success." Now that her husband's in jail, Aisha may have to putsomething more precious than her designer gear up for sale in order tomaintain her image. The cost may be too high even for her expensive tastes.

Devani knows she's found her way out of the hood when she sleepswith Tyrik, a star pro athlete. When Tyrik's calls get further and furtherapart, Devani's mother suggests the perfect scheme: become his baby momma.Will Devani's plans force her man to commit, or backfire with the worstof consequences?

Molly is so in love with her husband, Junior, that she doesn't care if she's the only white girl in the hood. Blinded by her love, Mollylets everyone walk all over her. But Junior may cross the line, forcing Molly to give back all the abuse she's taken.

Lexi has five children - and four broke baby daddies. Now she ismarried to Luther, Mr. Right in every way but in the bedroom. Determinedto finally provide a good man for her kids, Lexi must struggle to fighther cravings for sex with her ex. Will she stay faithful to her husbandor give in to a passion that may very well prove deadly?

Great book. The story flowed well. There was lots of drama, violence, and of course sex. The sex in this one was mighty good too. The characters were well formed and not only could you picture them, you felt as if you knew them. Like Shameless Hoodwives (which is actually the second novel in the series) the ending has a surprising twist. All I can say is Whoa! This is a MUST read for all you urban/street lit lovers.

Shameless Hoodwives by Meesha Mink and De'neisha Diamond

Shameless Hoodwives

by Meesha Mink and De'neisha Diamond

3stars

finished reading July 2010

There isn't much I can say without giving away the story. If you are looking for a drama filled book than this is right up your alley. The book follows 4 women each with different issues they are facing.

Here's the back over:

Hearts break, lives shatter, and liars prevail at Bentley Manor, where everyone sins shamelessly.
In the second novel from the authors of Desperate Hoodwives, four women will try to escape Bentley Manor — a place no one has ever left unscathed...

• Keisha married the high school basketball star, but now Smokey's addicted to crack. Unable to feed her children, Keisha feels that she's not only hit bottom but has taken her children with her. When Smokey's brother offers to help, will it come at the ultimate price?

• Takiah abruptly fled her pimp husband with her baby. Desperate to start over, she finds a hiding place. Living with Grandma Cleo means returning to church — but Takiah's salvation is the last thing on the pastor's mind...

• Princess is lucky to have found a ride-or-die friend in Lucky, who helps protect her from her mom's abusive ways. With a voice to rival Mary J. and Whitney, at just seventeen Princess holds a ticket out. But when Lucky is gone, will she have the courage to follow her dreams?

• Woo Woo has escaped the projects with her suburban husband — the type of man every woman wants. But she can't resist sneaking back to Bentley Manor for steamy sexcapades with her drug dealer boyfriend. It's not only WooWoo who has a secret...

I read this book out of order so I have to go back with that said though, it was easy to follow so you won't get lost. I'm going to let you all read this story on your own. But I will say this, Woo Woo secret was a shocker. I didn't see it coming and actually said "Oh ish!" out loud when I came to it.

*This is a urban/street novel. If you do not like reading very graphic sex scenes, drugs, and violence this is not the book for you.

Bitch by Deja King

Bitch by Deja King

3.5 stars

196 pages

From bank of the book:

Precious Cummings came from nothing but was determined to have it all. Using her most deadly weapons - undeniable beauty, body and street savvy brains, Precious sets out to change the cards that sheÂ’d been dealt. After meeting Nico Carter, a man who can help her achieve her goals, virtually overnight she is on her way. Precious quickly transforms from Project Chick to Hood Queen and is determined to hold on to her position even if it means crossing the man who made it possible. Set on revenge, Precious gambles it all in her quest to gain everything. Just when she believes the dice have rolled in her favor, Precious has to answer for the web of deceit that she has set in motion.

My Thoughts

This story flows well. Precious is cold-blooded and outright selfish. Unfortunately the personality of Precious is a familiar one. She goes along with the status quo and with her looks she is able to "pull" the higher level thugs. She thinks with her ego and those decision come back to haunt her. The book is entertaining. The characters are believable. The ending was not a surprise. If I did not know that there was a sequel the ending would not have been very satisfying. If you like urban lit then you will enjoy this book. Happy Reading

The Aftermath by Anna J

The Aftermath by Anna J

3 1/2 stars

From back of book:
Jasmine and James have been on rocky ground ever since gorgeous, supersexy Monica joined them for a threesome that quickly got out of hand. Monica isn't the kind of woman to give up on what she wants, and before long she's pulling them all into a web of secrets, lies, and wild, dangerous lust...

Monica from My Woman His Wife is back to show you why even the mere thought of a mge a trios with your spouse and an outsider should never enter your imagination.
It's been three months since the Cinque household has been turned upside down by a sexual tryst gone terribly wrong. Although Jasmine and James are making moves to put their broken home and broken hearts back together, past lies and a lack of trust make it almost impossible to salvage what once was sacred. It's even harder when with a conniving woman like Monica throwing salt in the wounds from the sidelines because she still hasn't gotten what she wants.
Old family secrets are revealed and half truths are exposed as marriage vows are put to the test, painful memories are relived, and revenge is at the top of everyone's list. Drama, betrayal, and lust are all found on the pages of Aftermath -- when once just isn't enough.

My Review

I enjoyed this book. The characters struggled with the decisions that they made and the consequences of those decisions. Even after everything that happen in the first book the characters still was not 100% honest with each other. To start over and start fresh you must be willing to put everything on the table. As the saying goes, what is done in the dark eventually finds its way to the light.

This is not a stand alone book. It would be advisable to read the first book My Woman, His Wife first to truly understand what went down. I would rate the book as 3 stars if read before the fist one. It is entertaining but the first book is more sexually charged.

What They Want by Omar Tyree

What The Want by Omar Tyree

rating 3 stars

Despriction:
Successful male model Terrance Mitchell had no plans at all to ever settle down. For what? Being single was freedom, where relationships were binding. Nor did he have any plans for a family, with snotty-nosed kids running around, cramping his style, and eating for free. To hell with all that.
Terrance loved his life as is. He was a well-traveled, good-looking male model in an industry full of insatiable and insecure beautiful women. Women who adored him and were willing to do almost anything to prove it. He liked it that way. And he had become accustomed to it.
Then it happened. One of his beautiful women fell over the cuckoo's nest and shattered his peace of mind. From then on, Terrance could never again lead the blind mice with his flute without feeling guilty about it. He realized that women had a purpose for him. That they had dreams and aspirations that included his participation. Of course, a man in his position, constantly surrounded by beautiful women, would know this already. But just because he knew what women wanted didn't mean he was capable of or willing to give it to them. Nevertheless, Terrance suddenly felt inspired to try.

Night Work by Nelson George

Night Work
by Nelson George

rating 3 stars

Overview:Dark-skinned chocolate, sexy and smooth, Night earns his keep by pleasuring rich white women around New York City. But he's grown weary of this seedy, criminal life. If he could just get someone to sign him to a record deal, he'd willingly say good-bye forever to the emotionless sex that is slowly numbing his soul. Just when his dream of becoming an R&B vocalist is about to be realized, Beth Ann, a beautiful supermodel deep in debt to a dangerous drug ring, begs Night to help her move a large quantity of Ecstasy. He reluctantly agrees, but the good deed sinks him deeper into the nightlife he's been trying so desperately to escape. It also puts him on the radar of the NYPD, and when one of Night's clients is found murdered the cops are quick to add it all up against him. Now Night must fight the fallout of his past and try to forge a path back to his future, before it takes off without him.



My Opinion:

reading time: 17 days
It took a while to get through this book. It did not grab me. The pace of the book was a bit slow. The main character Night annoyed me in a way that I can't be my finger on. Perhaps the book pace and lack of excitement is due to the fact that the character was missing that in his life, since he had no real passion in his day to day life. The end of the book was it's saving grace. I look up how this book was rated on other sites and I must agree the masses. I did not dislike the book but it wont go down as a favorite either. In other words, it's a very middle of the road read.



*daring quote- page 111 when describing how blessed he felt character states " I fe lt like my back was being touched by the right hand of God and His left was massaging my dick" What can I say, that is bold!



**typo alert: page 143 7th line...see it?



Spoiler!!!Night dream is to be a famous R&B singer. But until that happens, he makes his living as a is a gigolo who serves mostly rich white women. He grew up with low self-esteem mostly due to the fact that people including his father put him down for being so dark.
When he was a child, he and his sister watched their mother die from a stroke. As a result he holds resentment towards his father for not being there when it happen and he thinks his father holds the same resentment towards him for not calling an ambulance. Now the only love they share is for Nikki Night's sister. Nikki had a tumor as a child and though they were finally able to remove it, she still suffers from aweful headaches and surgeries.
They story really gets good when he hooks up with DJ Power to drop his vocals on a rap track. Dj Power shows interest in wanting to sighn him. The track is quickly a hit. Comes in to the picture is Ivy Greenwich big time manager interested in Night as well. Along with Ivy is Beth Ann the Sports Illustrated model he fantasized about. She gave him the cold shoulder.
Night relucantly takes a job. He gets there to find and older white couple, the Perls, and a black female escort in a Billy Holiday mask. With the Miles Davis mask on he went to work on Mrs. Perl. After a few minutes he feels finger probing a place that's off limits for him and he flips on Mr. Perl. Night leaves the party.
At a video shoot Night spots a story about Mrs. Perl being found murder. Panick hits him knowing that could easily get caught up. After the shoot he goes to his female pimp Raffaella's apartment only to get cuffed by the detectives waiting for him to show up. He spends the night in jail but let go the next day.
All the while Night has been helping Beth Ann through one of his friends sell a large quantity of E pills. She gotten herself way over her head they are holding one of her friends until they get the money.
In the end Night finds out that the Mr. Perl he met was not the real Mr. Perl but a neighbor. He killed Mrs. Perl because she wanted him to get a divorce like she was going to do so that they could be together. With the help of another one of Night's friends the men who had kidnapped her friend were arrestted in a sting. Night makes a mind with his father. And the story ends with Night in the hospital awaiting news about whether or not Nikki will survive her latest medical crisis.