Hello everyone!
It’s been exactly one month since Written Magazine launched the Summer Reading Challenge and many of us joined not long after. I’ve been catching up on the posts at the Written 30 Books in 90 Days Group, but wanted to check in directly with RAWSISTAZ members & site visitors who decided to join us.
How’s it going? Are you on track or barely keeping up? What have you read already and what were your thoughts? Be sure to include author & genre.
Hey All:
I’m well into book #6. My list is as follows:
1. The House at Sugar Beach by Helene Cooper
2. P.G. County by Connie Briscoe
3. Can’t Get Enough by Connie Briscoe
4. Our Kind of People by Lawrence Otis Graham (couldn’t complete)
5. “The Spook Who Sat By the Door” by Sam Greenlee
6. Lif is Short but Wide by J. California Cooper
Definitely tell us about THE HOUSE AT SUGAR BEACH.
I’ve been reading romance and Christian fiction. I recently read Lady Jasmine by Victoria Christopher Murray, and Mistress Makes Three by Francis Ray and Round the Clock by Dara Girard.
I plan on reading these between now and August:
The Devil is a Lie by Reshonda Tate Billingsley
Temperatures Rising by Brenda Jackson
For You I Do by Angie Daniels
Taste of Passion-A Madaris Novel by Brenda Jackson
Sweet Deception by Patricia Sargeant.
Well, since I was informed by my fiance that I had to read about 1 book every 3 days to stay on track, I feel like I am behind. I quickly told him I didn’t want to think about it that way so I do feel somewhat on track. So far I read the following-
1. Lady Jasmine by Victoria Christopher Murray (fiction) rating (I think)- 3.5/4. This was a quick read and entertaining enough but Jasmine is up to her old antics and I am starting to get tired of her.
2. The Battle of Jericho by Sharon Draper YA Fiction. (rated 4)- Quick and intriguing read that made me think. I enjoyed the storyline and the characters. It was YA lit but any reader can enjoy it.
3. November Blues by Sharon Draper (rated 4.5)- Revisits characters from the first novel but this time focuses on November.I like how the author approached the topic. Another well written book.
4. And Mistress Makes Three by Francis Ray (4). Follows the Francis Ray mold so slightly predicatable but still enjoyable.
5. The Devil is a Lie by RTB (fiction 3.5)- Enjoyable read but not as good as her others. I think I hyped the book up too much in my own mind before starting it.
6. Sin in Soul’s kitchen by Oye (3/3.5 fiction)- Decent read, pace slowed at times but overall was entertaining .
I am working on a couple more as we speak (or type)……
I’m proud of you guys. 30 books in 90 days? I simply couldn’t. I wouldn’t remember a word I read. I’d have all the stories mixed up. But, hey…how does this work if you’re reading books that are close to 1000+ pages? I like BAB’s, which would automatically make me a loser in this contest. Keep reading, but wear reading glasses to protect those eyes!
I finished 2 books.
1. Gather Together in My Name by Tracey Price-Thompson
2. Where There’s Smoke by Terra Litte
I started my 3rd book last week, so I am a little behind. But, I predict I will be caught up and on book four by this weekend..
If my library and my budget allow it…I plan to read 3 books this weekend and I hope to finish one tonight.
So far I’ve read :
1. Practicing What You Preach by Vanessa Davis Griggs- Christian Fiction….4.5
I enjoyed reading another in the Pastor Landris series.
2. The Devil Is a Lie by ReShonda Tate Billingsley- Christian Fiction….4.5
Reminded me of so many people in my life…loved it.
3. Maneater by Mary B. Morrison/Noire- Urban Erotica??…..4.5
It will be in my top ten for 2009 reads. I enjoyed the flow of the story and the characters (both male and female) were so out there and so real.
4. Man of Fate-by Rochelle Alers- Romance…….4.0
Rochelle is one of my favorite and she didn’t disappoint me. I’m waiting to get the next book in the series to see the women these other friends fall in love with. Nice relaxing read.
5. Single Husbands by Honey B- Fiction…..4.5
I couldn’t stop reading. As always Honey B.’s story was good til the last drop….
Chasing Faith by Stephanie Perry Moore- Christian Fiction….3.5
If you’re a romantic and are saved/not saved but want to be saved….this is it.
Stephanie’s story has given you a blueprint to become saved and shining examples of unconditional love and forgiveness.
It was a good read but at times it was too slow for my taste. I’d still recommend it.
I love your blurb of this, sis!
-Tee
Thanks, Tee
Chasing Faith by Stephanie Perry Moore- Christian Fiction….3.5
If you’re a romantic and are saved/not saved but want to be saved….this is it.
Stephanie’s story has given you a blueprint to become saved and shining examples of unconditional love and forgiveness.
It was a good read, but at times too slow for my taste. I’d still recommend it.
7. Scandulous Truth by Monica Carter…..Christian Fiction…..4.0
Nikki and Will think they have the perfect marriage until the devil tries to tear them apart. Old skeletons are coming out and new ones are fighting to come out and ruin their marriage.
Monica gives her readers a recipe for the survival of any relationship.
Add a little love, some forgivness and an overflowing cup of prayer blended with faith…you will make it.
Let Nikki and William show you how to fight the devil and claim the victory.
8. A Price to Pay by Angela Winters – Fiction….3.0
Though I’ve enjoyed reading Angela’s View Park novels, this one was too slow for me.
The story didn’t flow for me and it wasn’t exciting enough. It’s almost the same storyline as the last one with different characters.
I’m beginning to think about not reading anymore “series†type books because they take too long for the next one to come out and some of them read almost as if the ending was written first and then the rest of the story builds up to it.
I’d still reccommend the book because I’ve liked her others in the series.
9. Yes We Can by Scout Tufankjian- Non Fiction…..4.5
Beautiful photos of Obama’s journey to the White house. I was present for one of his visits in Charlotte, N.C. and he definitely had the crowd fired up and ready to go. I think this book will give the reader the feeling of having been there with us when we were “fired up and ready to go”. The photos and texts are undisputable proof that everyone was there supporting and voting for him as our 44th president.
10. Lady Jasmine by Victoria Christopher….Christian Fiction……3.5
I’ve enjoyed this series but had to make myself finish reading this one. I think for me the ending was too predictable.
11. Headbangers by Zane….. Erotic Fiction 3.5
The main characters being twins was a nice addition to the story. The story seemed to be just about Hope and Faith and their friends having sex until one twin decided to have sex with her sister’s man. The payback scene was straight out of Shame on it All. Nice for a quick read but, somewhat predictable.
12. A Deep Dark Secret by Kimberla Lawson Roby…..Fiction….4.5
This is a must read for mothers and young daughters. I have a friend that was sexually molested by her step-father from the age of 5 until she was 13 years-old….I know reading this book may have helped her to tell somebody what was happening to her. I’ve already told my friends with young daughters to buy it. Whats scary is that some mothers still don’t believe their daughters and will defend the man.
Enjoyed reading Jillian’s story and Kimberla’s writing was excellent.
13. Pure Paradise by Allison Hobbs…..Erotic Fiction….4.0
Meeting Milan again has been more than interesting. Milan is addicted to sex and so is everyone in her inner circle. She lets her pussycat rule her mind and in the process she loses everything…..almost. Milan comes out on top and her life is filled with more riches than she could’ve imagined. I love a story with a happy ending and this was filled with surprises and happiness.
Allison’s writing is definitely giving us….”something to talk about”.
14. Chaser by Miasha….Urban Fiction…..3.5
Leah is learning her lessons the hard way. She realizes too late that everything that feels good to you isn’t always good for you. Everything that shines isn’t gold…things aren’t always as they seem….etc…..there are lessons to be learned in all of Miasha’s stories, this one about Leah and the choices she makes is no different. I enjoyed the story and would recommend it to those that enjoy reading urban fiction.
15. If it Isn’t Love by Dwayne S. Joseph….Fiction….4.0
I enjoyed reading this story. There were lots of issues going on within the Blige family. I’m sure some of the the characters opinions will mirror those of the reader. When death comes knocking it gets their attention and everyone is running around trying to fix what’s broken before it’s too late. This was the first book I’ve read by this author and it won’t be my last.
Surprisingly I’m on track at least I feel like I do.
Here’s what I’ve read or listened to so far
1. Fatally Flakey – Diane Mott Davidson – Fiction – Culinary Mystery – 3.5
2. The Traveler’s Gift – Andy Andrew -Fiction 4.0
I enjoyed this inspirational book and plan on reading some others by him.
3. The Noticer: Sometimes, all a person needs is a little perspective – Andy Andrew – Memoir -5
4. Finding Me – Darnella Ford – Fiction – 3.5 (I couldn’t finish this book so in the end I may remove it from the list)
5.. A Mercy – Toni Morrison – Fiction – 3.5
6. Morality for Beautiful Girls – Alexander McCall Smith – Fiction – 4
7. Tears of the Giraffe – - Alexander McCall Smith – Fiction – 4
8. Michelle Obama : in her own words – Michelle Obama – Not sure genre it’s basically quotes from different speaks and interviews – 4.5
Ive read 13 books so far all fiction. I’ll send the titles another time..
As of today from my list I’ve read.
1. Quite Strength by Tony Dungy – Biography – Slow and easy they way Tony was on the football field, but very touching. – 4
2. Sultry Storm by Celeste O. Norfleet – Romance – This is the 2nd book in the Mother Nature Matchmaker series. – 4
3. Rescue Me by Farrah Rochon – Romance – Life is stranger than fiction. – 4
4. Intimate Seduction by Brenda Jackson – Romance – From the Forged of Steele series, Donovan bites the dust. – 5
5. For You I Do by Angie Daniels – Romance – The 4th book in the Beaumonts series, ver good read.- 4
I read 1 book that I did not put on my list and still reading my 1st book from the list. I have to find my MOJO….
1. Grindin by Danielle Santiago(was not on my list)
2. Chaser by Miasha (reading)
So far I’ve read the following:
1. Black And Ugly As Ever by T. Styles
2. Deception At It’s Best by Nea
3. The Cartel by Ashley and JacQuavis
4. He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not by Tracy L. Darity
5. Consequences by Skyy
6. Sassy by Gloria Mallette
So far I’ve read:
1. Maneater by Morrison & Noire
2. Too Much of a Good Thing Ain’t Bad by Clarence Nero
3. The Devil is a Lie by ReShonda Tate Billingsley
4. Style, Naturally: The Savvy Shopping Guide to Sustainable Fashion and Beauty
By Summer Rayne Oakes
5. Leaders Make the Future: Ten New Leadership Skills for an Uncertain World (Bk Business)
By Bob Johansen
Finishing up with Let Go: Live Free of the Burdens All Women Know
By Sheila Walsh
Hope to read twice as much in the next month because as of right now I’m really behind the curve…
OK I am currently on book 7 and 8 of my list plus I am reading a book on my ereader. That one is going slow since I mainly read that one at night or in transit to and from work. Here is my list of completed books Not is any particular order
1- 7th Heaven by James Patterson (detective mystery series) Good addition to the series not the best one so far but definitely a good one. I did like the surprise twist of an ending though in hind sight I probably should have seen it coming.
2- Sunday Brunch by Norma L Jarrett (Christion Fiction, Womens Fiction) – Really enjoyed this book. Loved the dynamic between the women. The book really had me thinking on a number of levels about friendships and relationships.
3- Promises In Death by JD Robb (Detective Mystery Series) – I love this series as a whole. The mystery though good are not challenging. It is the stories and the lives of the characters that really gets you caught up. The love between Dallas and Roarke still makes my heart flutter and the realtionships that their life and love have touched just makes it all the better. As for the mystery I figured out the killer about half way through the book though she did surprise me with the why.
4- So Still The Night by Kim Lenox (Paranormal Historical Romance) – OK read a bit of a disappointment for the second book in a series. Lots of potential but the follow through just wasn’t there. I was not caught up in either the romance or the battle between good and evil that is the back drop for this series. I am hoping the 3rd books in the series does much better.
5- This Duchess of Mine by Eloise James (Historical Romance) – I really enjoyed this one. Not sure what to say about this one without sitting here and typing out a full review. This book reminded me of why I started reading this series in the first place and of why I love historical romance.
6- Highland Warrior by Monica McCarty (Historical Romance) – Another series book (did I mention that I love series books LOL) – really enjoyed it. It has been some time since I have read a highland based romance. And this book reminded me of why I fell in love with highland romances. Reading about these sexy hard warriors falling in love is just a trip
Next Up
And Mistress Makes Three
All of Me by Venice Berry
Finish The Goodhouse by Tananarive Due on audio
Finish The Alchemist on my ereader
I keep saying I’ma send an update, but get side-tracked each time. I’ma do better. I love how you’ve broken each one of these down. Thank you, thank you. This is how I’m doing it.
-Tee
Hey everyone! I keep saying I’m going to catch up and I keep trying, but whew…I can’t hang. LOL. I’m on book 8 (DARK CHILD by Travis Hunter) and 9 (THE LONG FALL by Walter Mosley) now.
My reads thus far are:
Gather Together in My Name by Tracy Price-Thompson (Fiction)
It always amazes me to see writers into the psyche’s of the opposite sex and Tracy Price-Thompson does this very well in the main character in this book. It’s such a heart-wrenching story; one that had me rooting for the least-likely character. There are many themes throughout the book, but one of the major ones was familial love. The book shows that no matter how bad a person does you, sometimes love is stronger than anything else.
Ramblings – Volume 1: A Blogged Book by Angelia Menchan Vernon (Poetry)
This is one of those books which make you stop and think about things. A lot of wisdom packed in a small book, but well worth the read. It’s like having a big sister guiding you through the ups & downs of life.
Mr. HIV by I. B. Freeman (Fiction)
This was a very slow, slow read for me. The premise of the story was interesting and I wanted to give this one a shot, but it took over a week to read it. It’s a fairly quick read, but is in strong need of a developmental editor. The writing is short and choppy, the characterization is off at times, and it’s much too over-the-top to be believable. The overall message is also too far in the book for the average reader to wait on. While it’s apparent the author did some research on AIDS and HIV, it’s not dispersed in a way that’s compelling to the reader.
Dork Diaries: Tales from a NOT-SO-Fabulous Life by Rachel Renee Russell (MG Fiction)
This was a middle grade fiction book about a girl who moves to a new school and the things she goes through, as most of us can remember from our days of middle school. She’s not popular, rich, or beautiful, but she comes into her own in this book and what I loved most was the humor and the way the book was set up. It was basically a peek inside her diary, with drawings, thoughts, and some sayings that really cracked me up. The author did a wonderful job depicting the voice of a tween. I’d highly recommend it.
*Something She Can Feel by Grace Octavia (Fiction)
This was a last minute add, but it was so good, I read it in about 6 hrs straight. I couldn’t put it down. It’s about a small town girl who is content with her life, which seems perfect. But, she starts to question if she’s really happy or if she’s missing out on something bigger. When one of her former students comes back into town, she gets a glimpse of a different life and starts feeling things she doesn’t feel for her husband. I really loved the author’s voice in this book. It was smooth and steady, almost poetic. And, you could actually feel the main character’s confusion, frustration & even desire for something else, to feel something; yet her hesitation to give in is also prevalent.
8. A Price to Pay by Angela Winters – Fiction….3.0
Though I’ve enjoyed reading Angela’s View Park novels, this one was too slow for me.
The story didn’t flow for me and it wasn’t exciting enough. It’s almost the same storyline as the last one with different characters.
I’m beginning to think about not reading anymore “series” type books because they take too long for the next one to come out and some of them read almost as if the ending was written first and then the rest of the story builds up to it.
I’d still reccommend the book because I’ve liked her others in the series.
So far I have read:
1. Where There’s Smoke by Terra Little
2. If Memory Serves by Vanessa Davis Griggs
3. The Rose of Jericho by Vanessa Davis Griggs
4. That Devil’s No Friend of Mine by J.D. Mason
5. Maneater by Mary B. Morrison and Noire
6. You Gotta Sin to Get Saved by J.D. Mason
7. Gather Together in My Name by Tracy Price Thompson
8. Hittin The Bricks by Noire
9. Lover Man by Geneva Holliday
10. Praticing What you Preach by Vanessa Davis Griggs
11. No More Tears in the End by Roy Glenn
12. Lady Jasmine by Victoria Christopher Murrary
13. The Devil is a Lie by Reshonda Tate Billingsley
14. What Doesn’t Kill You by Virginia DeBerry and Donna Grant