Reading Corner: Sweet Swagger

I know it’s been awhile since I posted a book review but I got caught up since A Private Affair and I’m now THREE books ahead. And each book has been juicier than the last so I’m going to try to go back to Sweet Swagger and give you my run down.

Sweet Swagger was the follow up novel to Mike Warren’s A Private Affair which introduced the reader to Sean Matthews and his wild lifestyle. In my last review, I stated that two elements set this novel apart from the riff-raff: setting and pacing. Well, you can throw that out of the window because this novel took the wildest and weirdest turn I’ve ever experienced in a book. While the military setting remained, it was placed on the back burner in place of more nightclub scenes and “home life".

Nevertheless, the pace remained consistent and I was swept up, anticipating each page like a huge spoonful of chocolate sundae!

At the conclusion of A Private Affair, we found Sean confessing his love before his friend Cameron who was at the altar about to marry *GASP* a woman. However, Sean's arrested on suspicion of murder before he can blink (Cameron too) and Sean finds himself in a race to discover the truth before it’s too late. As if that isn’t enough on his plate, his wife suddenly dies and he’s left a single dad with two small children. But oh no, Mike Warren doesn’t leave it at that – the cherry on top? Sean enters “complicated” relationship with men and women that ties back into the murder and delves into an underground world of sex, lust and power.

About two-thirds into the book, the novel took an unexpected turn regarding this underground lifestyle and while at times graphic and a bit disturbing, I enjoyed the diversion from the main plot. Initially, I thought it was a bit fantastical and whimsical (Sean should still be grieving) but after finishing the novel, it made me wonder what people are really hiding behind closed doors. In essence, your next door neighbors may not be the quiet, normal couple that one thinks.

I was disappointed with the development of some of the characters such as Cameron and Cat (she was introduced in the first book). While I hold no discrimination against effeminate men, I still find it difficult to believe that Cameron went from knock-down-drag-out-of-the-flaming-closet-queen to straight husband and father. Additionally, I was a little weirded out by the new characters Justin, Ty and Mike, mostly because the affairs with them moved quickly. And kudos to Warren for keeping the continuity flowing from the first novel (HINT: floors + paint).

Lastly, the subplot mystery turned out to be a disappointment (very rushed scene) but equally surprising (my detective skills need some tuning). Additionally, Warren utilized the same technique from his first book to end the novel: the cliffhanger. I’ve nothing against this however, it’s very frustrating and disappointing and hope he’s planning a third novel.

Overall, this was a very strong counterpart to his debut book. The pacing, storyline and characters were just as salacious and sensational. Mike Warren has proven himself a true master of storytelling.

Reading Corner: A Private Affair

As a fairly consistent reader (I’m hardly without a book), however, I am a bit picky when it comes to fictional novels. I tend to judge a book by it’s cover length so right away I was apprehensive but the cover illustration looked hot so I took a gamble!

And surprisingly, it paid off…

The author, Mike Warren, introduces the reader to A Private Affair, a world filled with lies, secrets, lust and just about all other manner of freaky erotic lifestyle that usually pepper a “typical urban novel.” However, two things immediately helped set it apart from the riff-raff: setting and pacing.

The plot is about a young Army private, Sean Matthews, who begins to explore his sexuality and gradually delves deeper and deeper into a world he is unfamiliar with. Chance encounter at nightclubs, undercover military sex, down-low lust and even some forbidden Lord-have-mercy religious rendezvous keep Sean’s world upside-down and turned out. But along this wild journey, he begins to discover himself and has to make some extremely important decisions. As the author states, will he get the best of both worlds or simply turned out?

Now before I zero in on my complaints (and those who read my past reviews know I will!), I must compliment this fresh author on his intrepid novel. There aren’t many novels in the African-American SGL genre that feature the military as a backdrop, especially considering how homophobic both communities can be at times. Knowing some family as well as a few friends in the military, I have never been interested in anything remotely army-related so bravo for capturing my interest.

Nevertheless, this novel suffers from the same affliction that many up-and-coming SGL novels do: TERRIBLE EDITING! There is nothing worse than reading a novel (I’ve read quite a few) and keeping the Rosetta Stone tablet nearby to decipher what in the world he or she is attempting to convey! While I don’t want to criticize this author, I believe all these authors should take more pride in their work and keep on their publisher/editor’s.

Lastly, my other issue with this novel was the overall structure (pacing, continuity, loose ends). The last two chapters raced by at break-neck speed leaving a massive cliffhanger (to be resolved in his next novel Sweet Swagger). Another example is Sean’s friend we are introduced to from the beginning and seems to simply disappear as well as the characterization of his roommate, Cameron, which I find hard to believe someone this effeminate actually made it through boot-camp.

Yet on a positive note I found many aspects of the story endearing and relevant. While I can’t relate physically to the super muscular, hyper-masculine personality of Sean, I easily connected with his struggles as he “came out.” His constant denials, his disconnect with his wife, the encounters were all expertly detailed and slowly drawn out through the course of the book. Additionally, many of the events toward the end of the novel really moved things along and begged for resolution (“who don it?” “could it be..?” “oh no he didn’t!”) and I’ve already got Sweet Swagger on order.

I recommend this as a great summer-style read. The “intimate” scenes are very hot and steamy with just enough raw detail to excite without drowning it in “poetry-esque” prose or making it crude and classless. While the scene changes really take the reader for a ride, don’t expect the novel of the century. Simply put, if you take A Private Affair at face value, you’ll be begging for more too!

Look for my review of Mike Warren’s follow-up novel Sweet Swagger by early summer.

Reading Corner: Mama Dearest

I bought it, placed it on the shelf and looked at it.

I packed it in my suitcase and dragged it with me from St. Thomas to Barbados intending to spend time with it out on the lido deck. I re-packed it in my suitcase and brought it home. Thanksgiving and Christmas came and went and still I couldn’t bring myself to take the final step.

Yet finally, nearly a year after the death of E. Lynn Harris and several months since the release of his final novel, “Mama Dearest”, I took the plunge and decided to read it.

For those that are new to my blog, I have posted several book reviews on novels (click here for all posts on books) but none were as hard-hitting as those by E. Lynn. His series figures prominently into my life as a SGL man because he was the first black SGL author I had been introduced to. The Divo had given me a copy of “Invisible Life” for my birthday about a year after we met and from then on, I was hooked!

Fast forward several years and I have read his entire collection, including his memoir, “What Becomes Of The Brokenhearted.” And I’ve been taken on an emotional rollercoaster every time. From the first scene involving Raymond Tyler in his college dorm room to the epilogue in his final novel involving Yancey H. Braxton, I have been on a poignant journey, defining my life and learning what it truly meant to be a SGL man in a world I was only beginning to (and still struggling to) understand. Simply put, no SGL man can say they have truly “come out” unless they have read the master of African-American SGL literature.

While only a select few authors have since captured my mind and heart, E. Lynn always kept me hooked and interested. I couldn’t bring myself to blog about his death last year and in many ways, I’m still in shock at his passing. It feels like a bizarre dream. While Harris claimed to be just an average guy simply following his dreams and passion, he touched thousands of lives along the way both directly and indirectly and I can say that I was one of those fortunate few.

Now I don’t like to give endings away (although it’s been several months since the release) as I’m sure that SOMEONE, SOMEWHERE, SOMEHOW has NOT read this book. That said, I’ll rate it with 4 stars out of 5. I know that seems heartless and possibly disrespectful but I’m not going to be soft – and I don’t think E. Lynn would want any critics out there to go easy. Authors crave feedback and E. Lynn Harris was a true author to the very end. So …

I was extremely happy to see the return of Yancey but secretly yearned for more Basil or Raymond. A note to fans seeking our two favorite SGL hotties: they do make extensive cameos, but the story remains firmly centered on the true divas. The plot revolves around Yancey Braxton, last seen sabotaging Nicole Springer’s career, trashing John Basil Henderson at the altar and dealing with her very crazy and delusional “mother” Ava Middlebrooks who has finally been released from prison. Of course, no Harris book is complete without revenge, drama, schemes, plots and good old backstabbing and he definitely returned to what he knew best.

Unfortunately, it’s a song and dance all too familiar to his readers, especially throughout his past several novels (Basketball Jones, Too Good To Be True, I Say A Little Prayer) and I could already spot the snakes in the grass from the first few chapters. Additionally, I was not crazy about the lengthy sex scene between Yancey and her newest suitor, S. Marcus which has left me wondering why Harris chose the straight path (writing from a woman’s perspective) in “Too Good To Be True” and “Mama Dearest.”

Harris also reintroduced several characters, one of which is Madison B., Yancey’s daughter she gave up for adoption to pursue her own dreams of stardom. I wasn’t too pleased with her portrayal which was defined by a struggling combination of Nicole, Yancey and Ava’s personalities. For a teenage celebrity, she wasn’t youthful-acting enough for me and appeared as an old soul trapped in a young body.

The buildup towards the climax was executed perfectly however, as a reader I was left with many questions and felt some of the characters were out of character. While Ava returned to her conniving ways, characters such as Lyrical and Dalton seemed placed to serve as a moral foundation for the novel; I understood their purpose but felt it would have been a better read without them. Nevertheless, Harris’ attempt to melt the heart of Yancey succeeded and I must commend him on a job well done.

Still, that last star must be withheld due to a rushed ending and many unanswered questions. Overall, it was great to see closure for many of his beloved characters (Raymond, Basil, Nicole, Yancey, Ava) and while it has been a lengthy and complicated adventure from the first page of “Invisible Life”, it has never been dull. I know I’ve listed most of my criticisms in this post but I believe his best novels were behind him (“Invisible Life”, “Just As I Am”, “And This Too Shall Pass”) and most of his final novels were rushed and reflected more of an experimental phase in his writing.

Personally, I would have preferred at least one more novel to complete the series featuring Raymond and/or Basil (the primary characters from the start) and a positive depiction of a middle-class black SGL couple.

But one can still dream, right?

We will miss you dearly Mr. E. Lynn Harris and thank you for all the joy, laughter, tears and thrills you have brought into our lives. May you rest in peace.

E. Lynn Harris (1954-2009)

Invisible Life

Just As I Am

And This Too Shall Pass

If This World Were Mine

Abide With Me

Any Way The Wind Blows

Not A Day Goes By

A Love Of My Own

I Say A Little Prayer

Just Too Good To Be True

Basketball Jones

Mama Dearest

What Becomes Of The Brokenhearted (memoir)

Reading Corner: In Love With A Thug

I finished reading In Love With A Thug by Reginald L. Hall about a two months ago so you'll have to pardon my memory when it comes to the characters and the storyline. I loaned my copy to The Voice so I'll double check my facts before the final post.

Well, well, after all the book reviews I've written, I have to say that I didn't really favor this particular African-American SGL novel. In retrospect, I extended the reading over an entire month and procrastinated even longer before writing this review. I think my subconscious was screaming something at me!

The basis of the story?

The main character, Julian Jiles (aka J.J) robs a bank with his lover, Darnell. His partner is killed in a police standoff and J.J. escapes with the money and forges a new life. He achieves his life-long dream of owning a hair salon named Ché Mystic and then meets a "swaggalicious" young thug named Bryant who seems just a bit too good to be true. Is Bryant the soul mate that J.J. wants and desires or is he hiding a more sinister agenda?

First things first: I am guilty of effemaphobia (took that word from an episode of Noah's Arc). I noticed a post on (click here: *Emerald Eye Entertainment*) regarding the treatment of feminine behaving men within the SGL community. The main character J.J. is extremely dynamic, shifting from masculine back to feminine in mere seconds. I've been getting over my distaste for fem men over the years so bear with me; I'm a work in progress. I have fem mannerism from time to time so who am I to criticize others? Furthermore, since I've come out and attended gay clubs and pride parades, my comfort level for the extreme (i.e. trannies, cross-dressing, etc.) has increased. Consequently, I've achieved maximum “comfortability” to the point I perform public displays of affection (PDA's).

Anyway, I'm digressing.

So after my initial distaste of the main character’s outward behavior, I eventually just found him shallow and stupid. I'm all for supporting the black SGL literary community however, they need to step their game up. Now, Lin, Fred (and E. Lynn), don't go getting your feathers ruffled up! Anyone who reads my blog knows I'm a martinet for grammar, spelling and all that jazz. In essence, the narration and grammar transported me back to my second grade classroom.

"Mrs. A?! Can I please go to the bathroom?? Pleeeeassee?!?!"

(Whoa, flashback!)

I think Hall is tremendously talented in crafting a storyline. Nevertheless, I maintain serious issue with the plot. For example, a major character was killed in front of J.J. and Hall neglected to expound on the personal impact upon him. If a really close friend of mine was murdered, I don't believe I'd contrive an evening date and act as if everything is perfectly normal. Furthermore, J.J. didn't even mention the murder to Bryant that night!

Conversely, I did enjoy Hall's use of famous characters peppered throughout the novel. Mary J. Blige, Alicia Keys and Lil' Kim are only a handful of celebrities that appear in the story. The first time I encountered this phenomenon, I chuckled, thinking, "He really wants me to take this seriously?" However, the more I read, the more I became accustomed to his writing style and actually discovered that I enjoyed it. Kudos on the creativity and inclusion of celebs!

Moreover, he included himself in the storyline at the beginning of the novel:

“A fire erupted in a North Philadelphia home tonight, Osama Bin Laden is still on the loose, and author Reginald L. Hall is still continuing to sell millions of books all across the country.” (Ch. 3, p. 15)

Terribly self-centered yet creative!

Lastly, my significant problem with J.J. was his self-depreciating personality. He endured beatings at the hands of lovers and then justified it as love! Ridiculous! Hall describes J.J. as being fiercely independent and prideful at the beginning of the story yet he debases himself around the men he dates. Simply put, J.J.’s personality best compares to a rollercoaster. This turned me off about halfway through the book and I found it a struggle to continue to end.

The denouement was exceptionally rushed and I while I won’t give anything away, I’ll simply say it was clichéd. I applaud Reginald Hall for his valiant effort however, if you are seeking insightful characters and deep meaning, I’d search elsewhere. The story is a great afternoon read; extremely entertaining, adventurous and a nice break from reality.

I haven’t read much African-American SGL fiction lately. I’ve transitioned back to reading Star Trek novels (I need to change my reading style every few months to keep from getting stale). I’m planning to order several African-American SGL novels over my winter break so be on the lookout for more Reading Corner then!

Reading Corner: Right Side Of The Wrong Bed

For the past two weeks, I've been reading Right Side Of The Wrong Bed by Frederick Smith. Initially, it's been a struggle since my departure from work to maintain my regular reading habits. Nevertheless, I managed to journey through this novel and came away with a greater appreciation for generational differences in a romantic relationship.

This novel is not a continuation of Down For Whatever, Smith’s first novel. Rather, we are introduced to Kenneth Kane, a successful thirty-something college administrator, who has a seemingly Cosby-perfect life with his firefighter boyfriend, DaVon. Unfortunately, as Chinua Achebe would say, "things fall apart" and Kenny finds himself hopelessly single and constantly barraged with child paternity suits courtesy of DaVon's fence hopping ways.

However, Jeremy Lopez slips into Kenny's life "as smoothly as the rum going into his second mojito." A twenty-one year old Daddy Yankee clone from East L.A. who has more issues than Erykah Badu's "bag lady." Eventually, Kenny attends wild parties and clubs with Jeremy and feels completely young at heart. Nonetheless, reality sets in and Kenny must make some serious decisions that could lead to even more unpleasant consequences. As the book's synopsis states, "will Kenny wake up feeling like he's on the right side of the wrong bed?"

Before I get into my review, I thoroughly enjoyed Down For Whatever and even recommended it to The Divo who read it while on vacation in L.A. last year. That's quite amazing because The Divo is all about having fun and yet the book captured his attention more than his vacation! Go figure! Anyway, I digress.

In Right Side Of The Wrong Bed, I found myself frustrated from the start due to two major issues. The first issue concerned "dangling statements" that Smith seeded from cover to cover. An example would read:

"'How you been?' DaVon said, half looking at me, half looking over my shoulder at the crowd around us. Needed to keep that wandering eye still, with his wife and kid at home, and countless others ..." (page 11)

It was probably just my anal-retentive personality when it came to that. I'm not a huge grammar fiend and I'm usually pretty laid back when it comes to fiction because the author is expressing him/herself in whatever way they see fit. Conversely, these sentences effortlessly continued the flow. In essence, Smith writes how an individual thinks so I give him props for the realism.

The other me-issue was the naivety of Kenny. While I was ecstatic to see an African-American SGL middle-class professional portrayed extremely well, I was also upset that he was getting caught up in some of Jeremy's schemes. However, a friend of mine pointed out, "that is precisely how the author wanted you to feel!" Again, kudos, Mr. Smith. Furthermore, the naivete upset me because I was recently seeing an eighteen year old and I related especially well to the questions and confusion that Kenny was experiencing. Consequently, I was perceiving myself in the mirror and as we all know, the truth is hardly flattering.

Okay, let's see, some other highlights. The storyline was simply delicious! However, I can't give anything away so read it and trust, you'll like! Momma Kane, whew, "Lawd have mercy!"

I need a minute here!

One more minute ...

Okay, I’m good!

I love Momma Kane! Did you all hear me? I LOVE HER! If this novel were a movie, I see Jennifer Lewis all up and through that role! Momma Kane was right on point!

Overall, the book was put together exceedingly well and was positively convincing. Smith definitely had me reading extra chapters even after my lunch break ended! Unfortunately, Smith's ending wasn't tremendously credible. It was profoundly rushed and could have been expounded upon for a few more chapters. The last chapter lacked closure and this conclusion was worse than the first novel’s denouement. Still, I’m hoping to read more books from Frederick Smith and I clearly see tremendous growth since his first novel! So check out Down For Whatever and Right Side Of The Wrong Bed and support this talented author!

This week, I began reading In Love With A Thug by Reginald L. Hall. I know one shouldn't judge a book by it's cover but I had serious doubts even before I bought it. Nevertheless, I have a thug addiction (don't we all?) so I'm going to satiate my curiosity. I'll let you guys know in a week or two (free-time pending) what my thoughts are on Mr. Hall.

Reading Corner: The Moanin' After (Part 2)

Last week, I finished the novel, The Moanin' After, by L.M. Ross, and thoroughly enjoyed it to the last drop! Delectably delicious!

“Please sir, may I have some more?”

Now, I don't want to tarnish the ending for those who have still not purchased the novel however, let me first say that people are sleeping on an exceptionally talented author. During my e-mail correspondence with Ross, I discovered the book was not selling favorably. So on that note, here are links to Q-Boro books, Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble and Borders Books & Music. There are no excuses! Go buy the book and support this gifted writer!

In The Moanin' After, Ross focused primarily on David Richmond, dancer extraordinaire, fashionista and former member of the boy band Da Elixir as well as exclusive heir to the group's royalties. He is haunted by the passing of his best friend as well as the “hemorrhoidic” desperate Faison "Browny" Brown, another member of the group who will do anything to achieve fame and fortune. While contemplating the meanings of life and love, David is reunited with Bliss Santana, a tortured soul who comprehends his pain but embodies secrets of her own. Lastly, David’s sanity is challenged when he meets Kindred, a vision of purity, like sunshine after a fresh spring rain. But is he genuine or simply a manifestation of David's grief?

The last few chapters were so powerful that I simply cannot give anything away. The story line and plot twists added a fourth dimension to the characters and reached the depths of my soul. Ross evoked strong emotions, something that NEVER happens when I read a book. Most emotional scenes merely scroll insipidly past my eyes but throughout those last chapters, I stopped reading and began FEELING! I experienced a mental orgasm of sentiment, an authentic catharsis and I’m left in absolute admiration and amazement!

Ross informed me that the book was structured such that first time readers weren't left wondering about the first book, Manhood: The Longest Moan. The flashback scenes were particularly beneficial as I read his previous novel a year ago. While there were numerous grammatical errors (he addressed that in our correspondence), Ross surpassed his peers and shined through with an astounding story and extraordinary prose. His poetic roots were woven throughout the story and he succeeded in crafting a thoughtful and eloquent conclusion worthy of the greatest writers.

I really can't type anything more except go buy this book! The length of both novels may discourage some unsophisticated readers however, if one is willing, you won't be disappointed. L.M. Ross has done it again and I'm quite sure this will not be the last we hear from him!

Conversely, I've begun reading Right Side Of The Wrong Bed by Frederick Smith, author of the previous novel, Down For Whatever. I've only just cracked the first chapter (I honestly didn't even know Smith had a second novel out!) so it'll be a week or two before I get something posted. Nevertheless, I enjoyed Down For Whatever and this novel is starting out real juicy so I have a feeling I won't be dissatisfied!

One On One With L.M. Ross

I recently received an extraordinary surprise and I'd like to share this with everyone!

Yesterday afternoon, following lunch, I completed several more chapters of the book, The Moanin' After and logged back onto my computer. I decided to check my personal e-mail and noticed one titled, "L.M. Ross says THANK YOU ..."

So I sat at my desk mumbling, "yeah, whatever, probably Amazon.com thanking me for purchasing the book or something." As my pointer hovered over the delete icon, I noted the e-mail wasn't from Amazon.

‘Curiouser and curiouser’, I thought.

I opened the e-mail and discovered it was from L.M. Ross, the author of the book I'm currently reading!

‘Yo, no way! This can't be! I must be trippin'!’

Initially, I assumed it was hoax however, as I read the opening paragraph, a sensation crept over me and I realized this was genuine. Suddenly, that sensation turned frosty and my heart beat more rapidly as I thought about my negative commentary regarding his grammar usage. Would Mr. Ross be offended? Nevertheless, it turned out Mr. Ross was a valid, authentic, bona fide gentleman and incredibly amicable concerning those issues.

Mr. Ross thanked me for the kind words and was extremely pleased I had received something valuable from his work. Moreover, he expressed his regret about how the book did less than expected. I was admittedly shocked since the favorable reviews outweighed the negative on Amazon. The context of his second novel is significantly more profound than his first and I was simply beside myself that he wasn't received better.

This afternoon, I replied and encouraged him to not give up on his talent as I sensed some frustration in the tone of his original e-mail. He's an exceptional writer and clearly deserves a superior publisher. Mr. Ross is undoubtedly gifted and I predict we haven’t heard the last of him (thank goodness!) Lastly, I conveyed my thanks for recognizing my site and revealed how his book has motivated and stimulated my inner artist.

I can’t lie, I was a bit star struck. Let's face it, it's not everyday a published author actually takes the time to contact a reader (at least it’s never happened to me). That act alone made me feel extremely honored.

Nonetheless, I experienced a mixture of exhilaration and trepidation. I'm ecstatic that a role-model in the SGL community acknowledged me however, I'm fearful that the hidden presence of other well-known individuals will cause a “subconscious censure.”

Since I created this blog, I've been straightforward in my style of writing. I speak purely about what comes to mind even if with an absent audience. Blogging is therapeutic and allows me to establish an identity and expunge detrimental emotions. I rarely edit or regret my posts or comments and haven't apologized for any negative perspectives. Yet now I find myself wondering who is out there in cyberspace … watching.

I'm going to try and continue writing as openly and honestly as I can. Mr. Ross exuded a kindness that merely increased my confidence in my opinions. Consequently, the message in his books ("cherish your Art") has awakened my musical desires and I've got something huge in mind. In the meantime, I'll post my final review on The Moanin' After in a few days.

Once again, I’d like to convey my gratitude toward Mr. Ross for his correspondence and to everyone else, go out and support this brotha who is making waves in the pool. You won't be disappointed. Trust.

Reading Corner: The Moanin' After (Part 1)

This week, I'm reading L.M. Ross' novel, The Moanin' After, the sequel to his debut novel Manhood: The Longest Moan. Before I get in too deeply, let me say that I absolutely loved the first novel! I cherished it so much, I've placed Ross on the same level with E. Lynn Harris and James Earl Hardy. High praise indeed! I enjoy novels that are extensive and provide me time to truly understand and appreciate the characters. Believe me, once I finished Manhood, I was well acquainted with Face, Ty, David and Browny.

The first novel focused on four friends, their journey into adulthood, the search for love while confronting their past demons. I know, it sounds cliché. Tyrone Hunter (songwriter), Pascal 'Face' Depina (pretty-boy model), David Richmond (dancer) and Faison 'Browny' Brown (voice) formed a boy band named Da Elixir which hurled them into instant stardom. However, such notoriety came with a price and each fell from fame and struggled to adjust to new realities. Now for those of you that didn't read the book, too bad (nah, for real, go buy the book!). SPOILER AHEAD so avert your eyes! To describe the sequel, you need to realize that two characters from the first book died. You'd imagine the story ended there but oh no, the secrets were just beginning!

The second book concentrates primarily on David and his struggle over the death of his best friend. Furthermore, the story focuses on Bliss Santana, Face's girlfriend and Browny's wretched attempts at revenge on his former group members. That is the most unpretentious way I can phrase the summary. The read is FAR more interesting. Words simply cannot do it justice.

Ross utilizes excessively descriptive adjectives and adverbs to create a rhyme-scheme that illustrates not only the characters but the rhythm of the city too. He weaves scenes together and integrates past events, journal entries and introspective thoughts into the narrative. The dialogue he applies to each character is consistent from the first book and the characters practically leap off the pages. I found myself mourning with David, reminiscing about his friend and struggling to find love and growing extremely irritated with Browny's get-rich-quick schemes. At some points, I realize I am feeling sorry for him.

I have two major concerns regarding grammar usage in addition to "spotlight" time. Ross is a talented writer but you'd never know it due to frequent errors. I don't recall numerous mistakes in the first novel but I was probably extremely immersed and didn't really care. Don't get the wrong idea; Ross’ second novel is surprisingly good. In fact, it's remarkably better than his first. The plot developments build on what was previously established demonstrating his adeptness at constructing a story. However, he merits a prominent publisher who can enhance his genius, skill and brilliance. Additionally, Ross does not balance time spent on the major characters. The initial chapters are devoted to David with subsequent chapters focusing on Browny. I believe Bliss only received about two chapters.

The story is climaxing and I'm quite eager to finish the book. I'm hoping David doesn't dig himself in some crazy messed up pit he will regret but I suppose the story will resolve positively. I can identify with his character regarding certain issues. Moreover, several points concerning relationships (platonic and romantic) have led me to re-examine my relationships.

Anyway, I'll get a post up when I finish the novel.

Reading Corner: Just Too Good To Be True

I'm about halfway through Just Too Good To Be True by E. Lynn Harris and let me tell you, I'm actually eager to read it on the train or at home, something I never do! I prefer to read once a day, during my lunch period however, I occasionally read at school when waiting on a late professor or to kill time between classes. This plot has taken more turns and twists than my hair and while I was initially disappointed that the main characters were straight, Harris has made them "oh so juicy" and interesting enough for me to overlook that. As I said before, I'm biased. But with good reason.

The main character, Brady Bledsoe, is a college football star struggling to maintain his reputation and virginity all while juggling his academic and athletic career. His mother is extremely protective and supportive but is hiding some major secrets. As is Brady. I had most of the secrets figured out based on the opening letters but a few other surprises have since transpired.

For die-hard E. Lynn Harris fans who may be considering boycotting the book because it's not his "usual style", one simple word: don't. There are a few characters tied to his past books (I don't want to give it away) that make an appearance. I didn't even realize who they were because it's been a long time since I had read anything from Harris. On a side note, in an AOL article, he mentioned that he would be releasing a gay-themed book in January 2009 that focuses on basketball as well as several other upcoming releases that will get back to his original characters.

His writing is superb as always. He describes only the necessities and includes minute details which make you feel as though you're watching a movie or actually living this person's life. The story doesn’t drag or speed by, it moves at a steady pace. The fact that he's able to include the perspectives of an over-bearing sports mother and a seductive college cheerleader demonstrates his versatility. This is nothing new since he reflected the point of view of many female characters before (Nicole, Yancey, etc.).

The one issue I have with Harris' writing is character names. I understand that authors have to be creative and borrow from real-life individuals. Still, Brady Bledsoe? Come on! That is just excessively blatant!

The gay element is present in passing references as well as in a minor character's role. Nevertheless, the story continually focuses on the bond between mother and son and shows what can happen when everyone pretends to be something they're not. After the few plot twists I read today, I can sense the story preparing to climax and I'm really looking forward to the end result.

That is something I know Harris will bring hard and I’m more than ready!

Review: My Man, My Boyz (Update)

I finished reading My Man, My Boyz and aside from a billion editing mistakes, it was an okay read. I'm a quick reader and finished the novel in less than a week (45 minutes a day). There was a major storyline that was intentionally left open and I'm curious to know "who-dun-it." So I guess I'll have to buy the sequel, whenever that will be released. Additionally, I think the main storylines were wrapped up a bit too perfectly. But overall, it was great first effort; I really can't complain, especially since I've never written a novel!

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I'm currently reading E. Lynn Harris' new book, Just Too Good To Be True, and it’s a significant departure from his usual style. I like it so far, but then again, I'm biased. In my opinion, anything E. Lynn touches is just too good to be true!

Review: My Man, My Boyz

One thing that I enjoy doing is supporting the community of black SGL fictional and non-fictional authors. My friend, The Divo, introduced me to the novels of E. Lynn Harris about five years ago and thus began my addiction. Over the years I've collected and read many books and while some were really great reads (Hardy, Harris & Ross), others (Poole) shouldn't have been ordered or bought in the first place! Regardless, I enjoy reading and supporting up-and-coming authors and always appreciate their courage and skill. My collection, thus far, is below:

Invisible Life Series (E. Lynn Harris)

B-Boy Blues Series (James Earl Hardy)

Down For Whatever (Frederick Smith)

This Place of Men (Doug Cooper-Spencer)

I Wrote This Song (Dayne Avery)

Details (Dayne Avery)

I'm On My Way (Christopher David)

Manhood (L.M. Ross)

Breathe (Blair Poole)

One More River To Cross (Keith Boykin)

Beyond The Down Low (Keith Boykin)

Their Own Receive Them Not (Horace Griffin)

The newest book that I've added to my collection is My Man, My Boyz by Dwayne Vernon. While I've just begun the novel, I've already found some great points about it. First up, I like the feel and I can already see the plotline developing and the possible climactic results. However, the author has some other minor hurdles that make it difficult to get into the book. He utilized the same description twice in one chapter (i.e. dark-chocolate brotha/tone). Um, yeah, why does it always come back to chocolate? Additionally, not all brothas are dark-chocolate; I like to think I'm more like a smooth mocha! LOL He also named two hood characters Carlton and Barbara. Okay, I'm not a thug and I don't live in the most ghetto parts of Boston, but last time I checked, I don't know many black Barbaras or Carltons! I keep thinking about the Fresh Prince and the "Carlton-dance" everytime I see that name! LOL

Anyway, the novel is pulling at my heartstrings because the relationships seem almost too perfect (they usually are in most books) ... I think it's those damn hormones of mine acting up again! I'm going to keep reading and see how it turns out. I spent the first two months of the year reading Barack Obama's books and then followed that up with some sci-fi novels. I just need a change of scenery and hopefully this will live up to my expectations! I'll let you know how it turns out!

Addendum (July 2, 2008 8:49 AM) ---------------------------------------

I've read about two-thirds of the book and the story started getting better. Nevertheless, the grammar (verb tense) and vocabulary sophistication is VERY limited. I'm trying not to be too harsh since this is the authors first novel and he doesn't really have a literary background. There are just some parts that are completely unnecessary and other scenes that seem to just fly by. I feel he could have fleshed out the personalities behind the characters and made them more distinct (they all seem to be blending together). Overall, I'm enjoying the plot and the twists and where this all may be headed. I'll let you know my full thoughts once I finish the novel.