Reviews by OOSA

OOSA says "enjoyable" about Deal With Death

OOSA — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 12:07:09 GMT

Deal With Death

Endy's DEAL WITH DEATH tells the story of a mother and her two sons struggling to survive in an impoverished neighborhood. The mother is a functional drug addict. The two sons are very different. The oldest, Malik, is a drug dealer and is somewhat of a disappointment to his mother. The youngest, Marquis, is the apple of his mother's eye. He is in college and has a bright future ahead of him until circumstances beyond his control lead him into another direction.

The book started off kind of slow, introducing characters that were not the main focus of the story. Once the book addressed the main characters it picked up speed. I felt like I knew each one of the characters or knew someone like them. One good thing about DEAL WITH DEATH is that it was not predictable and there were many unexpected twists towards the end. I enjoyed it and would recommend to others.

Reviewed by: Jermaine

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OOSA says "interesting" about Pitbulls In A Skirt 2

OOSA — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 12:04:02 GMT

War On Emerald City,

They're back and they are fiercer than ever. Someone wants the girls out the way so they can take reign over Emerald City . But the girls aren't going to go down without a fight. No matter who gets in the way.

Yvette decides to give love another shot, but why is she being so secretive about her new love?

When things get out of hand, it is more than Carissa can handle? Will she be able to walk away when her friends need her the most?

Kenyetta falls in love with a man that has a hidden agenda. Will Kenyetta figure out what it is before it is too late?

When Mercedes rejects Cameron, it sets off a chain of events that will leave Emerald City looking like a war zone. Who will have control over Emerald City when all is said and done?

PITBULLS IN A SKIRT 2 by Mikal Malone was a fast-paced read. There were many twists and turns that will stun you. I was a little disappointed that this wasn't as good as the first installment. There was a part in the story I found to be highly...

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OOSA says "average" about Southside Hustler

OOSA — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 11:56:51 GMT

Southside Hustler,

Raymir and his crew rob banks and sell drugs. Fast money, fast cars, fast women. Things are running smoothly and he knows things will only get better with the upcoming release of his friend Knowledge from prison. But when a close friend of Knowledge's is killed, Knowledge wages war on the streets bringing unwanted attention to Raymir and his crew.

Does the plot sound familiar? It probably does. It sound like the premise of so many books today. Let's face it, folks, there's nothing new under the sun and we're not re-inventing the wheel. I got that. But what I do expect is for an author to bring freshness, uniqueness and creativity to an oh-so-familiar premise. That was not the case with "Southside Hustler." That does not make it a bad book, just an incredibly average one. At 180 pages, double-spaced (WHY???), there was room for more plot and character development. The editing was also less than desirable. That said, again "Southside Hustler" is not a bad book, but amongst...

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OOSA says "has potential" about You Know Better

OOSA — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 11:35:22 GMT

Shoulda, Woulda, Coulda...,

YOU KNOW BETTER, yet you keep making the wrong moves when it comes to love, lust and distrust. For Autumn Storm, this is the song that is set on repeat because it mirrors her life. Chance Carter, her live-in boyfriend, is out late doing his own thing causing tempers to flair. While Autumn tries to play her position, adding a curfew, voicing her opinions, Chance kills that noise when he puts his loving on the table. After all, he knows Autumn well and she simply can't resist all that he's offering. Or can she?

YOU KNOW BETTER written by B. Lisa has so much potential, but due to all of the editing glitches it fails horribly! It's this reviewer's belief that edited properly, YOU KNOW BETTER would not only be a much easier read, but one where people would be easily recommending it for others. Unfortunately, for me at this time I can't see myself doing so.

Reviewed by: Crystal

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OOSA says "great follow-up" about Tale of a Train Wreck Lifestyle

OOSA — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 18:20:18 GMT

Hard Knock Life

Crystal Lacey Winslow has done it again; "Tale of a Train Wreck Lifestyle" is the most captive trilogy ever!

I love the way Crystal begins this novel with former characters from her previous books, "Life, Love, and Loneliness" and "Criss Cross," Nikkisi Ling and Joshua Tune...and then introduces one a new character, Lisa Henderson. Nikkisi and Joshua are both still fugitives on the run from the U.S. for murder when Nikkisi and Lisa cross paths.

Lisa Henderson is a young girl that experiences some dreadful circumstances during life that forces her to the streets of New York . Lisa has always been treated as an outcast by her mother, Julie, and yet was a princess in her daddy's eyes. Things suddenly change and Lisa's life takes a drastic turn. Treated so badly by Julie, she is forced one day to make a choice: whether to live or die by Julie.

Nikkisi and Joshua come back to the U.S. for various reasons, and then Nikkisi and Lisa finally met. Lisa reminded Nikkisi of her deceased...

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OOSA says "engrossing tale" about Fast Lane

OOSA — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 18:14:23 GMT

What's up, joe?

Set in Washington DC , Williams tells the story of brothers Mann and Lando, raised by their aunt after the death of their mother. Despite the love and guidance at home, the lure and the glitz and glamour of the streets won over their young hearts and minds. But living in the fast lane normally ends one of two ways: death or imprisonment. Will Mann and Lando escape the inevitability of street life?

Williams has no problem communicating realness. While "Fast Lane" is not a biography, it's obvious that author Eyone Williams knows of what he writes. With vivid word play he has shown a talent for mixing entertainment and knowledge of the streets. Though disturbing at times because of the ages of the characters, "Fast Lane" is an engrossing tale.

Reviewed by: Tracy

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OOSA says "incredible" about He Loves Me He Loves Me Not!

OOSA — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 18:11:48 GMT

Growing Up Can Be A Pain

Tracy Darity follows the life of Khadejah Johnson. From an adolescent to adulthood she is taken on a rollercoaster ride in search of love and happiness. Khadejah goes through various stumbling blocks and challenges as well as experiencing what life has to offer. With loving family and friends in her corner, will she be able to have a peace of mind and the stability she's been searching for?

"He Loves Me He Loves Me Not" was an incredible read. This debut novel was pretty hefty but it was well worth it. Tracy takes the reader through realistic scenarios that in some way we can relate to. My emotions got the best of me while reading this book. The characters were very enjoyable; you'll come to love Khadejah as your own daughter or sister and want nothing but the best for her. As women, young and old, we go through different experiences and adversities in our lives - some good and others not so well. But we push forth and strive for the pot of gold at the end of the...

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OOSA says "quick & enjoyable" about Tanya Brown - What You Owe, Love Does Not Pay

OOSA — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 18:08:32 GMT

Shhh...

Everyone has a secret. An explosive secret. No one is exempt.

Danielle married Mr. Right - Charney. But her friends, Maxine and Pam, can't help but think he's Mr. Wrong. Who's right?

I ain't saying she a gold digger, but Maxine ain't messing with no broke n*gga! She's looking for a "wealth partner" to maintain her image. Will she find him?

When you don't look is when you find. Pam has caught the eye of her neighbor, a young white man. Is the grass greener on the other side?

As one friend searches for answers to her life's issues, she opens a Pandora's Box of secrets and lies. Can these friends handle the truth?

I really liked the prologue of this book. You'll just have to read it to see what I'm talking about. "What You Owe Me, Love Does Not Pay" did start a little slow but quickly gained momentum as the story progressed. I couldn't help but say "AMEN" over and over at some of the points the author, via her characters, expressed about women, life and love. "What You Owe Me, Love...

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OOSA says "cool drink on a hot summer day" about Reflections of a Mississippi Magnolia

OOSA — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 18:03:51 GMT

Grits in Grace(land)

Poetry about southern life, although the focus is Mississippi, it could well be any southern state.
It is a refreshing and unique perspective that rings true to my experiences of North Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, and Arkansas.

Patricia Neeley-Dorsey covers a wide range of topics from cooking, childhood, men, the environment, friends, habits and places common to the south. I enjoyed reading it because each poem was like a cool drink of water on a hot summer day, simply refreshing.

I would rate it a 5 for clarity, brevity, and comprehensive coverage as it was substantial enough to give someone who has never been south an idea of what to expect and how to adjust. Very light-hearted and easy reading, I found Neely Dorsey subtle and yet exciting.

Of course, it did help that she is one of my sorority sisters!

Reviewed by: Gail

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OOSA says "interesting" about Every Day Life

OOSA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:34:58 GMT

It Is What It Is,

MG Hardie's "Everyday Life" is a short play about four friends, L, C, E, and B as they sit around in one their apartments and shoot the breeze. They discuss a little bit of everything - everyday life.

It wasn't long before I found myself pulling up one of the non-matching chairs from the Rent-for-Less kitchen table and having a seat with them. I even threw in my two cents a few times and cracked some jokes!

"Everyday Life" is an interesting, often comical exploration. I recommend "Everyday Life."

Reviewed by: Marcella

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OOSA says "has plenty of potential" about With Friends Like That

OOSA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:30:53 GMT

Drama,

Drama takes a spin in WITH FRIENDS LIKE THAT by Ty Goode. Melissa, Phil, Tarik, Tricia, Simone and Kareem are all struggling with the effects of the wedding turned shooting that left Melissa injured. Several secrets are on the verge of being exposed. Can these friendships and relationships make it through the turbulent times?

Ty Goode certainly knows how to deliver on the drama. While this sequel does not quite pack the punch of SINFUL DESIRES, it has many things going for it. The characters are well defined and easy to follow which in turn makes for enjoyable reading. However, like its predecessor, it suffers from inattentive copy editing. For anyone that has not had the privilege of reading Ty's work, I would definitely recommend both titles. She is talented and has great potential, although there is still a lot to be desired with the presentation of the total package.

Reviewed by: Toni
3.5

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OOSA says "sure to quench you're need to read" about Thirsty

OOSA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:21:13 GMT

Thirsty,

This is a story of several people whose lives collide. Choices are made, some of which are terrible. Choices that will forever alter their lives.

Mike Sanders has brought freshness to an all too familiar premise. He has introduced a multi-faceted plot with many characters, and the story is told from four points of view - Justice, Monk, Sapphire and Carlos - in alternating chapters. Each chapter blends into the following effortlessly. I couldn't wait to see what would happen next. His descriptions are vivid and convincing.

In the end, "Thirsty" is a book that's hard to put away completely. Even long after it's finished, you may find its characters sneaking back into your head. Mike Sanders has spun a wicked tale that MUST be read by everyone. This is my first read by this author and it won't be my last.

Reviewed by: Jermaine

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OOSA says "this book is sure to NOT disappoint!" about Dwayne Murray Sr. - Like a Good Neighbor

OOSA — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 08:30:30 GMT

666 Cypress Ave...

In a deteriorating building, in the South Bronx, where the elevator is out of commission, the building's doors are broken and there is a rat infestation, reside thirteen tenants at 666 Cypress Ave. All these residents have something in common; they have bitter hatred toward one another. From the drug dealer, the nosy old woman, the crack addicted woman, the cop, the UPS man, the nerd, the bully and many others, tempers are about to rise and leave these tenants forever changed.

Like a wolf in sheep's clothing, the new tenant, Raven Thorn, arrives. She befriends each and every one of the people in the building; well that is except for one, Crystal. Raven is beautiful in every sense of the word, seemingly having a kind heart to go with her beauty and also highly intelligent.

Things begin to go terribly wrong at 666 Cypress Ave. People are starting to act strange and the most bizarre and horrifying events begin to transpire that are leaving people dead.

LIKE A GOOD NEIGHBOR...

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OOSA says "there is always a way out of no way" about The Triumph of my Soul

OOSA — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 08:27:34 GMT

Soul Stirring

"A Triumph of My Soul" is a collection of beautiful stories that tells the goodness of our Lord and Savior. He has been a blessing to each individual that was faced with obstacles and adversity. Even at their lowest point, God has made a way out of no way, and that makes him so awesome. With just a little faith as big as a mustard seed you can overcome and prosper.

This novel is a wonderful testament to how God works in our life no matter what the circumstance is. These short stories are inspiring and will bring joy to your heart, a peace of mind, and tears to your eyes. All 17 anecdotes were very enjoyable and I commend the talented authors who contributed to make this novel come to life. Some of us can relate to the situations or know someone who has been through the pain and suffering but has made a breakthrough with prayer and praise. I highly recommend this book. It will make your walk with God even closer and individuals who don't have a relationship with him would want...

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OOSA says "as always Keith Lee Johnson leaves you wondering" about Little Black Girl Lost 4

OOSA — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 08:23:37 GMT

Decisions & Consequences

Almost seventeen years of age, young Ibo Atikah Mustafa is whisked away from her home of Africa, along with her fiance, on a slave ship bound for America. The young couple was fleeing Ibo's impending, arranged nuptials only to be captured. Will their love survive? Will they survive?

LITTLE BLACK GIRL LOST 4 is evocatively written, calling up image after image. Author Keith Lee Johnson probes the environment, the people, and the thinking of the time through the eyes and experiences of young Ibo as she quickly grows to maturity. As with all of Johnson's books, the fourth edition of the "Little Black Girl Lost" series is thought-provoking and engaging. LITTLE BLACK GIRL LOST 4 is a rewarding read and I look forward to part five.

Reviewed by: Toni

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OOSA says "taboo" about Erotic City

OOSA — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 08:20:16 GMT

A Swinger's Paradise

Enter a world that is taboo in everyday society. Where people come to play, pleasure seekers of all kinds. Where couples or singles can go to play out some of their wildest fantasies. Enter at your own discretion because anything can go down here. Erotic City is the place to be - truly a swinger's paradise.

Milan Kennedy, owner of Erotic City, is beautiful, smart and very wealthy. She has her heavyweight champion boyfriend Lavender Lewis on her arm keeping everything in the club in control. The only person he doesn't seem to have control over is his baby mama, Ramada.

Tamiko Kennedy is Milan's younger sister, who is trying to launch her own clothing line. Feeling unsatisfied with her boyfriend sexually but always making sure he is satisfied is a full-time job within itself. But when he does the ultimate in betraying her, she will have to decide whether to stay or move on.

EROTIC CITY by Pynk was an enjoyable fast-paced read. Nothing but sex and drama! This novel would...

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OOSA says "joyful " about The List

OOSA — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 16:29:16 GMT

Prayers,

Sherri Lewis' latest novel, THE LIST, introduces readers to Michelle, Lisa, Angela, Vanessa and Nicole. Although each woman is independent and saved they share a common missing link, a man. They've all been waiting and waiting and now, they don't know why their prayers haven't been answered. They decide to increase their odds by using the internet to compile THE LIST.

NEEDED: Single, God fearing, hard working men.

The friends have made a pact to date a new man every week until the search for Mr. Right has been completed. Will they be successful?

Sharp, witty and a service undertone, THE LIST is a joyful book that I'm recommending for all!

Reviewed by: Carmen

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OOSA says "drama...drama...drama" about Home Wrecker

OOSA — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 16:23:41 GMT

Use What You Got,

Dwayne Joseph delivers a provocative novel about one woman's need for control. Manipulation and control is a way of life for Lisette. And she's paid well to do just that - manipulate and control. You see, Lisette is a Home Wrecker. That's her occupation. She's paid to "assist" unhappily married women by bettering their situations. But when she meets a potential client who knows the game of manipulation and control oh so well too, will the best woman win?

With "Home Wrecker," author Dwayne Joseph has concocted a quick, easy and enjoyable read. "Home Wrecker," as its title implies, has drama for you. Easily recommendable.

Reviewed by: Toni

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OOSA says "a good concept" about Death No Exceptions!

OOSA — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 16:19:54 GMT

Payback is a Mutha,

Fresh off a bid, William is looking for a little something something to get into to fatten his pockets. Yolanda Owens just happens to be the lucky (or not so lucky) victim. Yolanda is a now single mother after the death of her boyfriend, a boyfriend that left behind his stash of drugs and money. A vulnerable woman equals the perfect lick, right? What William didn't take into consideration was that Yolanda would not just take the loss lying down.

Kareem Tomblin's debut novel, "Death - No Exceptions," has a good concept and it piqued my interest. But...it was too short. I enjoyed the story, I just wish there was more of it. So much more could have been done with these characters, because they were interesting, their back stories and their ultimate connections. I look forward to Tomblin's next endeavor but I do hope it's a longer, more developed story.

Reviewed by: Lela
3.5 stars

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OOSA says "has the potential" about A Drug Dealer's Dream

OOSA — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 16:15:49 GMT

Just Too Good To Be True,

Twenty-three year old Ahmed Yung is released after serving a six-year bid. Christal, Ahmed's girlfriend, stayed faithful throughout the whole bid, raising their son Malique by herself. When he gets out she prays that he will not get back in the game, but unfortunately that is exactly what he does. He is making more money than he could have ever dreamed, but instead of getting out while the getting is good, he gets deeper in the game. Doing things he would have never expected he would. When you make a deal with the devil, some things seem to be...just too good to be true. Is this just a drug dealer's dream?

A DRUG DEALER'S DREAM has the potential to be a fantastic book. Unfortunately, in my opinion the book read like one big summary of all the key points that the author wanted his book to be about. You know how sometimes you may read a book that has too much detail? Well this one is lacking considerably in detail. I personally like to read a novel that has some suspense,...

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