Rating:  Summary: Enjoyed it! Review: I've read each of these authors and really enjoyed each short story. Especially Money Can't Buy Me Love - E. Lynn Harris and I'm Still Waiting - Colin Channer
Rating:  Summary: Ahh... to Colin Channer Review: Ahh...to Colin Channer and his beautifully written books--Waiting In Vain and I'm Still Waiting (his selection in Got To Be Real with my other favorite authors.) I loved all of the stories and the authors, but Mr. Channer's novels are so vividly written that I simply fell in love with his characters and his writing style. I entered his world on page one, his characters were embedded into my heart by the end of chapter two and into my soul by the end of his books. My book club members and I were stone in love with Fire and Michael and we could barely contain ourselves at our book discussion meetings. Colin was able to etch real bits of his characters's worlds into our hearts and souls. His characters still live in us months and even years later--that's talent. His books took us on unforgettable vacations to the far corners of his world in New York and Jamaica. I had never been to most of the places he decribed, but I was able to experience and appreciate the scenery, the sounds and the tropical favors through his words. I can't wait for Satisfy My Soul--ahh...the title already has my mind pondering and anticipating what secret pleasures Mr. Channer has no doubt scribed between his written sheets! Entered by Gloria Perry Book Club Coordinator for Sister 2 Sister
Rating:  Summary: These men can write! Review: Out of all of the authors featured in this book, I had read only Eric Jerome Dickey before. I had heard of E. Lynn Harris, but hadn't yet read one of his books. So, when I saw how the stories were ordered in the book, I was expecting that Major and Chandler were going to be the lightweights. I was so wrong!! I thought Eric's short story was interesting in that it was vastly different from all of his others. I liked the fact that he took this opportunity to branch out into a different area. It was enjoyable, but surprisingly, not my favorite. Marcus Major blew me away with his story. This is not just another "the man is a dog" tale. It took a real relationship issue and explored it in such a different light that I wasn't sure whether or not I was supposed to be upset with Amir or not. I know I was shocked, when, as a woman, I was really hoping for that door to be opened at the end. Mr. Major has a definite talent for the written word. E. Lynn Harris' contribution was interesting, to say the least. A bit graphic, but it made me question whether it truly was, or whether its my own unfamiliarity, and maybe some uncomfortableness, with the lifestyle that made it seem so. It was a good story, and I will definitely read some more of Mr. Harris' works. Colin Chandler's work was also interesting. The story was well written, and definitely descriptive. I look forward to reading more of Mr. Chandler's work in the future. This compilation did its job by giving 4 great writers major exposure. I was very pleased that each writer took this as an opportunity to hit a home run. It's a great book, a really good read and lets the world know that black men do take love very seriously.
Rating:  Summary: "Had to be good". Review: "Got to be real"was one of the best books I had read in awhile.I enjoyed Colin Channer's the most and it really touched my soul. It was my first novel of his read, and I am looking forward to reading his "Waiting in vain". He really took me back in time to the days of my "being into" Bob Marley; so many of my emotions were tapped. For a long time I've wanted to visit Jamaica;now, since reading Colin's novel in the book, I'm definately going to treat myself to Jamaica for my next birthday. Can't wait---and I won't be waiting in vain.
Rating:  Summary: Definitely worth your time. Review: Man! I received this for my b-day last weekend, and I must say, I was impressed. I've read some of Eric Jerome Dickey, and I've heard of E. Lynn Harris, but the other two authors were new to me. That didn't matter, cause each gentleman took me on a journey with their stories. Harris's story of a young black gay man's indecision over someone he could truly be in love with was deep and poignant. It was easy to see and understand the issues homosexual people face when it comes to relationships. Though I have never read his work before, he's definitely a talented writer. And Dickey hasn't disappointed me yet. I continue to enjoy his work immensely. Colin Channer and Marcus Major both are exceptional writers, and I will certainly look for more of their stories.
Rating:  Summary: A very good mix Review: From the top: I loved the E. Lynn Harris story as I always do. I read everything he writes and this was added to the list. The Eric Jerome Dickey story was good but not what I expected from him I also read everything he wrote and this was good but it just surprised me. The Marcus Major story about Kenya and Amir was written so well. After I read Good Peoples I was wondering how the love story of those two went,and I loved it. Marcus Major has become one of my favorite authours and I look forward to his upcoming work. The Colin Channer story was the first I read from him and it was ok. To me the story was too drawn out, I just could'nt get into it as fast as the others but it was an ok read. I don't think his writting style suits me very well that was the first and last story I think I'm going to read from him.
Rating:  Summary: Go ahead with yo' bad self Colin!! Review: I bought the book only because I was familiar with Colin Channer's work and was dying to read more from him. His writing is challenging because it's not meant to be a slam-bam-thank-you-mam kind-of-style. His style seems to infuse flavor and style into you, as well as provoke deep thought about what you are contributing to your relationship. The other stories were fine. My second favorite was the one with Amir and Kenya by Marcus Major. Very good story. EJD? Not really impressed at all. It needed more rounding out, and more depth. Harris? I was impressed with the first 3-4 books, not so much here. But he is a veteran so he is worth his due. Colin's first book "Waiting In Vain" was excellent and we are all "waiting" for the next book to drop, hopefully soon. Thanks for elevating the mind Colin!
Rating:  Summary: This book was a nice birthday present Review: As I approach the world of empty nesting, I have been adding authors to my list of books to read and was given this book for my birthday. I have been hearing about E. Lynn Harris and Eric Jerome Dickey (I have all his books but I haven't read them yet). These two authors have a great reputation for their writings. Marcus Major's Story regarding Kenya and Amir was my favorite. However, I did manage to finish Colin Channer's story it wasn't easy because I think I missed the flow, (I think I will read this story again in the summer). I thought there could have been less regarding the recording etc and more regarding the relationships involved, reason being its the relationships that define the ending. I will try to read another of Colin Channer's books and Marcus Major is definetly on my list of authors.
Rating:  Summary: Read it! Loved it! Review: Eric, was original and entertaining as always. E. Lynn, was in rare form, a little too much information. Marcus, you have a knack for this writing thing. Colin, interesting but took me a little longer to understand than the other stories. It was a great thing for four such talented men to come together and create something so emotional, we need more guys willing to express their feelings and put them on paper. Keep up the good work!
Rating:  Summary: What are you waiting for??!! Review: Let me first say...WOW!!! This entire book is excellent! I want the world to know...Each story is different in its own essence, yet all factor around REAL love. I think this book shows that four brilliant authors joined together creates a masterpiece. I am quite familiar with Eric J. Dickey. His story takes a run for the border where desire meets acceptance. I have read just about every word that he has written and it will be that way until he stops! Marcus Major, I've never heard of him until now. Great that I did. His story of Amil and Kenya is wonderful. I couldn't stop until the last word. I am looking forward to reading his future writngs! Next is the story of love told from E. Lynn Harris. I have read two of his previous works. His writing is catchy and real. Although his characters love interests are definitly out of the ordinary for me...love is love no matter what the sexual preference. Last but not least, the book ends in a story written by Colin Channer. It is a story of pure and undiluted love. (The kind we dream of...) He is a new author to me but after reading this short story he is definitely on my favorite list. It paints the beautiful scenes vividly allowing you to read and imagine at the same time. It is an Excellent, Extremely Astounding book. Get it NOW!!
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