Posted in Black Love, Contemporary Fiction, Erotica, Family, Hollywood, Love, Romance

Let Me Show You by Alexandria House (A Book Review)

Film director, Nolan McClain is focused and strategically making moves in his career. He also navigates his romantic life in a seemingly effortless way. He has the perfect formula for success. His well-crafted life gets a shake up when Bridgette Turner moves into his orbit. He just can’t seem to shake her from his mind.

Bridgette Turner, an up-and-coming actress is making the most of her budding career. She is destined for stardom. When Nolan’s romantic interest in her is made known, she’s uncertain that it could be real. In addition to her doubt, her past threatens to snatch anything positive in her future, including her potential romance with Nolan.

I enjoyed the exposition into Nolan and Bridgette’s background. It was refreshing to see both step out of the familiar. The banter between the McClain siblings was in this book as well and is always hilarious. I love the connection and warmth in the family. Yet another hit in the McClain brothers series.

Rating 10/10

Posted in Bipolar, Book Review, Books, Career, Entertainment, Evolution, Family, Friendship, Good Story, Hollywood, Identity, Love, Memoir, Mental Health, Purpose, Reading, Self-awareness, Self-discovery, Sex Addiction, Therapy

The Mother Of Black Hollywood: A Memoir By Jenifer Lewis (A Book Review)

“Artists are quickly labeled, and my label was “force of nature”. ~ Jenifer Lewis

Jenifer Lewis recounts her life to bring us a funny, insightful, and rich memoir. From her humble beginnings in Kinloch, Missouri to Broadway to Hollywood, Jenifer’s life was filled with crushing lows and equally exhilarating highs. She bares her soul in the most raw and truthful fashion as only she can. From sex addiction, a bipolar disorder diagnosis, to spiritual exploration, Jenifer owns her life boldly and unapologetically. Through it all, she comes full circle to find serenity and balance to live a rewarding life that commands the label “force of nature” in the most glorious and happy existence that shines through the pages.

I laughed out loud often (especially about a song that came from a camel ride), yet I gleaned many gems from Jenifer’s story. To see the beginning to the end and everything in between, was a lesson. Jenifer shows us what fighting for one’s own happiness looks like. Though difficult at times, she pushed through to get out of destructive cycles to get to her happiness. As if the retelling of her life wasn’t powerful enough, she wrote a letter to the reader at the end of the book. I really enjoyed that. It was the perfect end to sum it all up. I found myself reading it more than once and soaked up as much as I could. Great book.

Cool Quotes From Book

“Your playing small does not serve the world. Who are you not to be great?”~ Nelson Mandela

“There’s no greater journey, than the journey within.” ~ Beverly Heath

“The fact is many parents don’t or can’t give you everything you need. Mine couldn’t.  So, I went in search of substitutes. I often advise young people in this situation to understand there are probably people around every corner who will take them under their wing and help them on their way. But you have to ask.”~Jenifer Lewis

“If you can dream it, you can make it happen.”~ Shirley MacLaine

“Your landscapes are vast”~ Shirley MacLaine

“I’ve learned in life that what you give to others is what provides the most value to your life.”~Jenifer Lewis

“When you are not at your best, surround yourself with good people.”~ Jenifer Lewis

“You have to slow your roll; give yourself quiet time and stop to smell the roses, thorns, and all.”~ Jenifer Lewis

Rating 10/10