Product Description
Beverly, Charmaine, and Evelyn -- three sisters living in the same Maryland town outside Washington, D.C., each wishing her life were just a little different.Beverly is twenty-nine and single.She's a successful magazine editor who would love to be in love.The problem is, no man can meet her high standards.Charmaine longs to finish her degree, but meanwhile, she has to juggle a thankless job, a beautiful child, and an irresponsible husband she doesn't quite have the nerve to leave.Evelyn seems to have it made.She has a successful psychology practice and her husband is a partner in a prestigious law firm.But there's trouble in paradise, and Evelyn refuses to face the facts.

Warm and bittersweet, believable and real, SISTERS & LOVERS is a novel of family and love, heartache and hope, and above all, the triumph of sisterhood.

""Riveting . . . Lively . . . Hilarious . . . Three sisters who are remarkably different except in one respect:their men are driving them crazy."-- Mademoiselle

... Read more

Customer Reviews (33)

What Waiting to Exhale could be in the hands of a superior writer.
Briscoe does a wonderful job of creating characters that have a life of their own. Another thing she does well, and what Terry McMillan failed to do so miserable in Waiting to Exhale, was to create symphathetic characters. I could find it in my heart to fell bad for Bevery, Charmaine, and Evelyn, who though are all flawed, are each trying their best to make it in life. Unlike the ladies in McMillan's novel, who just want everything handed to them on a silver platter with no regard of how they conduct themselves or treat others.

I thouroughly enjoyed the novel, and though it lagged a bit at the end, felt it was the most satisfying read i've had in a while.

Lord Help the Mister Who Comes Between Me and My Sisters
Sisters and Lovers was a very timely novel for the 1990s when there wasn't much dramatic literature written by black authors.I thought Briscoe did a good job inviting the reader into the lives of three sisters with very different personalities.

Beverly, the main character, was the single sister looking to be married.She was turning 30 and thought by not being married, it would place her as an old maid.But with all of the men she slept with, I'd doubt she'd be anyone's maid.Her drama was circled around men and sex.

Charmaine, was afraid to be alone.Although she had a five year old son by a previous boyfriend and she was in her second marriage, her husband was a complete loser-a bum-wasted flesh.Charmaine worked and was the sole provider of the house.She struggled raising her son, maintaining a home and supporting a no-good man.But when she became pregnant and found out about all of the lies and deceitfulness of her husband, she said, "enough is enough."

My favorite is Evelyn.She was living large.She's sophisticated, level-headed, educated, business savy and a loving wife and mother.Her drama was the most interesting and I would've loved to have read her story as a full fledge novel, It's a story that could easily stand on its own.The one thing she lacked was confidence in her lawyer husband.She trusted his fidelity, but not his business decisions.She has her own private counseling center and her husband is a partner with a major law firm, but he wants to start his own practice with two other lawyers.Evelyn felt that now was not a good time for it.She had to learn some lessons herself.

It was a well written novel and the lives of all three sisters had closure which worked out really well.

BookBlotter Susan

Good Start.....Slow Finish
I enjoyed following the stories of the 3 sisters but it wasn't what I expected at the end...I would have liked to see stronger characters or personalities with regard to the things they had going on in their lives. I kept reading in the hopes that it would get better, but came up short....It will hold your interest, good story, just not one I'd brag about....

"It's O.K. I Guess"
Of the three sisters, "Charmaine" was my main interest. My heart went out for this sister because of the trials and tribulations that she had to endure. "Clarence" was too much drama for me, but he was hilarious about his clothes and all his "let me explain" or "I can explain" antics. "Beverly" worked my nerves with all her complaining and nic-picking. Helllooo, perfect men don't exist."Evelyn" is the perfect example of everything that looks good may not be good. To me, Ms. Briscoe focused too much on men being the "center" of these womens' lives. Beverly's sisters and her friendsfixing her up on blind dates, as her 30th birthday approaches, they make it seem like she's and old maid because she doesn't have a man and kids. You don't need a man and kids to be a woman...you're all that regardless.

I was surprised...
Usually I go for the mysteries where people die and things happen that will keep me scared and up all night.I picked this book by luck.It happened to be based in the area I've lived all my life and thought I'd give it a try.Turns out this book kept me up all night, not scared, but waiting to find out what was going to happen next.I enjoyed it and think you might also. ... Read more

Product Description
Three fascinating women discover that life, love and everything else gets better with age!

Maxine Davis's life is careening out of control—her marriage is dull, her teenage daughters are driving her insane and she is days away from a big birthday. New York Times bestselling author Connie Briscoe spins a compelling story of betrayal, forgiveness and redemption in The Perfect Life.

A nasty divorce and the tragic events of 9/11 help an empty nester see beyond the narrow confines of her material world.

In Three for the Road, Essence and Blackboard bestselling author Lolita Files takes readers on a breathtaking road trip to self-discovery with Lillibelle Goldman, as she meets an unlikely kindred spirit…

In This Time Around, by bestselling author Anita Bunkley, a successful career woman proves that life doesn't end at forty. At forty-nine, Anika Redmond has just received an extreme makeover. But even with her new, hot body and a power job, Anita is still searching for the one thing in life that eludes her—a happy ending…. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

"Like Fine Wine, You Get Better With Age"
Connie Briscoe's "The Perfect Life"- True what Tonya and Aaron did to Maxine was low down, but Maxine after 20 something years you're still holding a grudge against them. I say they did you a favor, you've got your husband and kids, move on girlfriend, move on. Lolita Files' "Three For The Road"- Adam took the cowardly way out to end his marriage to Lilibelle, but she found someone better in Chance Landry. The part of the story where she and Chance are having dinner and after a few drinks start singing songs from the Flintstones was so funny to me. Anita Bunkley's "This Time Around"- Danika you go girl for working your way to the top of that male dominated company, with your makeover now you're fierce. Why did you take Raymond back? He may do what he did to you again. I enjoyed this anthology.

For these women life begins after forty and it couldn't be sweeter!
4.5 rating

THE PERFECT LIFE by Connie Briscoe
Maxine Davis has had it with her boring marriage and smart mouth teenagers.Even the neighborhood they live in is dull.Maxine misses the early days of their marriage - when they went out of their ways to please each other.

A phone call from her mother brings the shocking news of her aunt's death and brings her face to face with her cousin and best friend Tonya.They haven't spoken to each other in twenty years - not since Tonya stole Maxine's fiancé Aaron.What will it take for Maxine to see that she has THE PERFECT LIFE with Curtis?

Connie Briscoe brings to mind just how easy it is to take the people in your life for granted.Maxine's anger and resentment that she's allowed to fester over the years has blinded her to how truly blessed she is with her simple family.


THREE FOR THE ROAD by Lolita Files
Lillibelle Goldman's world is forever changed by the events of 9/11.Not because she lost a loved one, but because that's the day her husband chose to tell her that he's found someone else and wants out of their twenty-five year marriage.

Newly divorced and with the kids away at college, Lilli decides to do something she's only dreamed of - visit Las Vegas.She packs up her car and heads out only to have it stall out on the side of the road during a rain and hail storm.It's there that she meets Chance and his dog, Yancy, and together they opt to share the adventure.Neither of them is looking for romance, but can they resist the desire that soon broils between them?

Lolita Files will have readers smiling with this charmingly poignant tale.While it's sad to read about the demise of Lilli's longtime marriage, I had to admire her for having the guts to take a trip on her own rather than bemoan what could have been.


THIS TIME AROUND by Anita Bunkley
Anika Redmond has spent many years trying to work her way to the top of a male dominated company where she's been employed for the past twenty-two years.She came to work for Cranstar after the collapse of her marriage and put any hopes she may have had for marriage firmly out of her mind.

With a little encouragement from her friend and neighbor, Ming, Anika submits an entry into a competition.The prize?A complete makeover from a popular television program called `A New You.'She's stunned when she receives the phone call that she has been selected as one of the winners of the make over.Will it help her get the job of her dreams?Of course not.What it will do is bolster her sagging spirits and make her feel like a whole new woman with a promising future ahead of her and maybe she'll discover that she does indeed have a happy ending lurking just around the next corner.

I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this story.When I first read that Anika was going to undergo an extreme makeover I was stunned.Then as I read further into the story I realized that the make over didn't change who she is or her position in the company.It does bring a new and exciting aspect to how she feels about herself and how coworkers and associates view her.


Connie Briscoe, Lolita Files and Anita Bunkley bring a new outlook on life to women over forty with these three uplifting tales.These stories transcend racial barriers and make age seem like nothing more than a number.Each of these stories is very different in theme and tone but they all drive home the fact that women of all ages are beautiful and YOU ONLY GET BETTER as the years go by.For most women age is a sensitive issue, but these three authors tackle it extremely well and present women who readers could almost envy because of their spirit and determination to be themselves.

Chrissy Dionne (courtesy of Romance Junkies)

You Mellow With Time
Maxine is a wife and mother, who at the age of 45 just feels as if she is unfulfilled, or maybe she's just not getting any attention.However, readers will learn that her unhappiness stems from something lurking from her past.Maxine never had the opportunity to close something that happened 20 years prior.When her aunt passes, she must travel to the funeral, and she's now face-to-face with those demons that she's suffered with in silence.Is there forgiveness in her future?

Three For the Road:Lolita Files

Spoiled since she was a child, Lilibelle has even managed to be spoiled in her adult life as well.Married to a rich and successful doctor for twenty five years, Lilibelle devotes her life to her family.Of all days to learn that life as you know it is changing without your knowledge, it's 9/11, an already painful day, yet Lilibelle learns that her husband is leaving her and wants a divorce.Devastated, Lilibelle does not know what to do. She's never had to be on her own.Is she capable of making her own decisions?

This Time Around:Anita Bunkley

Danika is a divorcee that has worked hard to climb the corporate ladder.Not really missing much as far as the social life goes, she's devoted all of her time to work. Her neighbor tells her about a contest that she feels will enhance Danika's life.Amazingly Danika is the winner of the contest, and believe it or not, it did really enhance her life and great things begin to happen with people taking notice. Danika is given an assignment in the scorching hot West Texas.Unfortunately, the scenery provides very little; however, a familiar face will be there.Is there still a little heat in the oven?

Just like fine wine,"You Only Get Better" with time.An overall decent read by great women, but times it was somewhat of a slow read.

Reviewed by: Carmen
3.5 stars

Like fine wine...
For that time between hot flashes and social security when women are in emotional limbo, YOU ONLY GET BETTER, an anthology, by three bestselling authors is on point.

'The Perfect Life' by Connie Briscoe
Maxine has hated her cousin Tonya, who was her best friend, for 25 years. Weeks before graduating from college Tonya stole her fiancé and they have not spoken since.Sadly, Maxine has allowed the past to interfere with her outlook on her life with her husband. Still wallowing in self-pity, the death of Tonya's mother gives her a chance to revisit the past. Maxine attends the funeral, confronts her cousin, and Tonya apologizes. Can Maxine forgive her and embrace the good life she is now living or will she continue to short change herself?

'Three for the Road' by Lolita Files
As the horrific events of 9/11 is changing how America lives, Lilibelle's husband, of over 25 years, uses this time to invoke his own disaster. In Arizona at a convention, he tells her he is never coming home; he loves someone else. Always indulged by her parents, and then by her husband, Lili is devastated. She's alone for the first time in her life, but surprisingly she does not wilt, instead she metamorphoses. She heads for Las Vegas, meets a newly divorced man traveling with his dog and finds her footing. This chance meeting may be just the catalyst she needs to jumpstart her life.

'This Time Around' by Anita Bunkley
Danika has been divorced from her domineering husband for 25 years; he left because she was "too independent". She has since worked her way up in a male-dominated company.As soon as she is promoted, she has to take a newly acquired company and cut the staff by half. Is this a golden opportunity? The company is run by her controlling ex-husband, now widowed with two teenagers. Danika is the last person he wants to see especially under the current circumstances.With a complete physical makeover Danika exudes a jaunty confidence, but is she prepared to see her 'ex' and can she handle her first assignment without reviving the ghosts from their pasts?

YOU ONLY GET BETTER is for women of all ages, but it may be special for those who have reached 'that' plateau. The three novellas are sassy, uplifting and real.

Reviewed by aNN
of The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers

Wonderful "mature" women characters who find love, peace and hope
This is "chick lit" about the older crowd--if you call late 40s-early 50s the older crowd.

Three bestselling authors tell three separate stories about women nearing 50 and in life-changing situations.

The Perfect Life -- Connie Briscoe (New York Times)

Teacher Maxine Davis has hated her childhood best friend (and cousin) because 25 years ago Tonya stole her fiancÇe.Hateful and unforgiving, the death of Tonya's mother gives Maxine a chance to look back to that fateful time.Maxine's mother cajoles her into going to the funeral.Cousin Tonya apologizes.Can Maxine ever forgive and again be part of Tonya's life? Could you?

Three for the Road -- Lolita Files (Essence and Blackboard)

New Yorker Lilibelle's shocking divorced comes on 9-1-1 when she locates her doctor husband in Arizona at a convention, and demands he come home because she is terrified.On that fateful day, he tells her he is never coming home; he loves someone else.Lili had always been indulged by her parents, and then by him. She is now alone in her empty nest. Travel with her across the country (sort of alone) on her trip to discovery, and a chance meeting with a newly divorced man.Can Lili let go of her need for control--and find love?

This Time Around -- Anita Bunkley (Blackboard)

Danika Redmond's single life came after her divorce--he couldn't handle her independence.Everyone he ever loved abandoned him--so he decided to leave her before she left him.She has worked her way up in a male-dominated corporation. When she is promoted, her first assignment is to go to a newly acquired company and cut the staff by half--run by her controlling ex-husband, now widowed with two teenager.He doesn't handle the fact that she is now "his boss" and could fire him.Will she be successful with this first important assignment?Will they get back together?

Minimally important to the story is the fact that the authors and the women in their stories are all African-Americans. I agree, "These fascinating women discover that life, love and everything else gets better with age!"

Armchair Interviews says: The read was fun and done quickly--in order to find out how each one handled that new life. ... Read more

Product Description
Lena needs something exciting in her life. Her job is draining her, she and her best friend can't seem to get invitations to an exclusive women's social group, and her boyfriend of three years, won't marry her. When Lena thinks things can't get worse, she wins several million dollars in the Maryland lottery.

After overcoming the shock of her win, things finally begin to turn around for Lena.She's able to quit her job, buy all the things that couldn't get for herself and her daughter, not to mention, Gerald has proposed and the women's group won't leave her alone.As her life begins to come together, Lena notices that the things she held dear are beginning to fall apart and she wonders if her life really changed for the better, or if things are actually worse than they were before. ... Read more

Product Description
Ten years have passed since Sisters and Lovers, and Beverly, now 39, is engaged to Julian, a man her family and friends agree is the epitome of a great catch: he's gorgeous, loyal, trustworthy, successful, and very much in love with her. Since this is Beverly's third engagement in the past five years, after breaking off the previous two at the last moment, everyone's happy that she's finally settling down. For Beverly and Julian, nothing could be better than being in love and planning their wedding. That is until Beverly's oldest sister's marriage falls apart and dampens the mood of what should have been the happiest time in Beverly's life. Now, second-guessing her impending nuptials, Beverly is forced to wonder if marriage really works. Will she stick it out? Or will her fears cloud her judgment once again? ... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

EXCELLENT AUTHOR!!!!
SHE IS ONE OF MY FAVORITE AUTHORS!!!! GREAT READ!!! ALWAYS LOOK FORWARD TO HER NEXT NOVEL!!!! GLAD I GOT THIS ONE FOR MY COLLECTION!!!

Drama with Sisters and Husbands
I loved this book. It was interesting from beginning to end. I was able to relate to each character in the story. Family members should read this book!

Sisters and Husbands and Brothers and Cousins, etc.
On the eve of her wedding, Beverly gets a serious case of cold feet.Her sisters Charmaine and Evelyn, who are both going through marital crises, rally to support Beverly and prevent her from being a runaway bride for a third time.The story is mostly told in a series of flashbacks leading up to present day. Readers find out all of the things that went on in Evelyn and Charmaine's marriages that influence Beverly's decision to take off her engagement ring.

It has been many years since I read Sisters and Lovers and I don't even remember what that story was about.This follow-up didn't do much to remind me.In any event, S&H wasn't much to brag about. It's pretty predictable and regular readers of this genre will instantly know how this story will play out.It's well-written and easy-to-read.3 stars.

Review of "Sisters & Husbands"
If you enjoyed Connie Briscoe's book "Sisters & Lovers" then you will want to read this book.For readers who did not read "Sisters & Lovers" don't worry "Sisters & Husbands" give you enough information to follow along but leave you wanting to read the other book. My bookclub members over all enjoyed the read and all of the members who had not read the first book went out and purchased it. Thumbs up to Connie Briscoe.

ENGAGING WELL WRITTEN FICTION ABOUT "US"!!!
This book was hot to death! It was not a you go girl book at all. The intelligent Ms. Brisco explores the very genuine and diverse aspects of relationships that the African American community goes through. She does this by putting a microscope on the very emotions we experience when going through conflicts within our relationships that we sometimes except as the norm. You will feel yourself identifying with each character in one way or another. Despite the few spicy moments in this book, it will amplify what needs to be done more in relationships and in friendships and what perspectives we need to do away with. I also loved her other book "Can't Get Enough". In my opinion Connie Brisco's writing is the real thing. Enjoy her books on audio also to even bring them to life a little more. Do me one favor Ms Brisco write write write we are waiting!! ... Read more

Product Description
The memorable men and women of P.G. County are back in Connie Briscoe’s wickedly funny and deliciously daring novel of romance and betrayal, dangerous choices and seductive second chances.

“This romp of a read combines lush settings, humorous dialogue and outrageous behavior . . .” Ebony magazine wrote of P.G. County, Connie Briscoe’s first excursion into the world of the overprivileged and undersatisfied inhabitants of an elite suburb of Washington, D.C. Readers will be delighted to learn that their mischievous machinations and meddlesome ways reach new heights—and sink to new depths—in CAN'T GET ENOUGH, the much-anticipated follow-up to P.G. County.

Barbara Bentley, the grand dame of P.G. County, is tentatively embarking on a fresh approach to life, abandoning the alcohol that served to soften the edges of her marriage to her bimbo-loving millionaire husband, Bradford. She’s been sober for nearly a year, her part-time work as a real estate agent has boosted her self-confidence, and the unexpected attentions of a handsome young colleague have done wonders for her ego. For Jolene, Bradford’s ambitious, conniving ex-mistress, the status she covets remains tantalizingly out of reach. Her decent, hard-working husband, Patrick, has left her for Pearl, a woman proud of her success as a beauty shop owner and eager to create a loving home for Patrick and his two mixed-up teenage daughters. Royalty comes to Silver Lake in the form of Veronique.She’s rich, fabulous and everyone’s new friend, or is she?

As the characters slip in and out of their Pratesi sheets and stride into mayhem and misdeeds in their Jimmy Choo shoes, CAN'T GET ENOUGH will hold readers spellbound. A delectable and scrumptious page-turner, it ushers in spring with the fabulous force of a Gucci-clad lion. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (45)

I loved this book!
I don't have many chances to read for pleasure but I'm so glad that I took the time to read this book along with PG County.I was glued to both books and couldn't put it down in anticipation of what was going to happen next.

disappointed but...
I am disappointed cause they didnt have this book in stock, but they did try their darndest to check if i could get it, so kuddos to the bookstore....just was my unlucky day to get it, i will have to try somewhere else..thanks

Missing that uumph!!!
It tied up the loose ends. But just was not it for me. I love some Connie Brisco.

Needed more not on fire like P.G. County....

Can't Get Enough
I finished the book this morning and just like PG County I felt left in a lurch, like I needed like 5 more chapters! So many questions, I needed to read about Jolene doing community service and her and Patrick fighting over Juliette, I needed to see Bradford return to his philandering ways and Barbara finding another boyfriend. I needed to see Pearl re-open her shop, I needed to see Veronique get hers from Bradford, I needed to see Brian get out of jail and stalk Jolene..............................oh I feel so deprived!

Money. Power. Sex. That's what the folks in P.G. County can't get enough of!
Few can do it better than Connie Briscoe and in "Can't Get Enough" she proves she's at the top of her game. The novel picks up where "P.G. County" left off and resumes the story of Barbara Bentley, wife of philanderer Bradford, and her equally enthralling co-residents of a wealthy Washington, D.C. suburb.

Barbara Bentley, the queen of P.G. County, was once a woman who never met a martini she didn't like. But clean and sober for a year now, she's a part-time real estate agent working with a young, handsome man who's got his eyes on her "property." She's eating up the attention, since she's not getting any from her philandering husband, Bradford. He's too busy traveling, making deals and bedding young hoochies. Then there's Jolene, Bradford's social-climbing former mistress, who fully intends on winning back Patrick, the husband she lost as a result of her affair. He's hooked up with Pearl, a plus-size sistah with real values and Jolene's plan to break them up may have gone too far. And who can forget the new neighbor on the block -- the beautiful and mystical Veronique, who builds a mansion next door. Everybody wants to be her friend, but she's not really interested. She's busy working on the best laid plans yet....

Both amusing and delectable, "Can't Get Enough" is a pleasing and spirited novel - one that may entice and surprise you with its climatic twists. Again, Connie has delivered a great story line of greed, jealousy, bitterness, adultery and of course betrayal. Great writing and great character development has proving to be some of the important ingredients to a great read.

... Read more

Product Description

Spanning more than sixty years, A Long Way from Home is the story of Susie; her daughter, Clara; and her granddaughter, Susan--house slaves born and reared at Montpelier, the Virginia plantation of President James Madison. Proud and intelligent, these women are united by love, fierce devotion, and a desire for freedom that grows stronger year by year.

A Long Way from Home vividly re-creates Southern life and the ambivalent, shifting relationships on both sides of the color divide, from the cruelty and insidious benevolence of white owners to the deep yearnings and complex emotions of the slaves themselves. It is an unforgettable story that pays homage to the African-American experience and to the ancestors whose lives and histories are indelibly entwined with our own.Amazon.com Review
In Connie Briscoe's third novel, the connotations of home areanything but heartwarming. For an enslaved mother, daughter, andgrandmother, Montpelier plantation in Virginia is a living hell--and theproprietor, at least initially, is none other than President JamesMadison. A Long Way from Home opens during Madison's lifetime, whenSusie and her daughter Clara serve the First Couple as house slaves. Yeteven this regime seems civilized compared to the havoc unleashed byMadison's brutal stepson. As Clara fends off (and ultimately succumbs to)the sexual advances of one master after another, the author conjures up theentire world of the "peculiar institution."

It is Susie's granddaughter and namesake, Susan, who first leaves Montpelier. Not, of course, voluntarily: she is sold to a family living in Richmond. Chained in the back of adeparting wagon, she "clenched her teeth and stared at the sky. How darethe day be so clear, so beautiful, on this, the worst day of her life." Butas the Civil War erupts, Susan ponders the possibility of a more joyousliberation. As Briscoe makes clear, the prospect elicited a complex blendof emotions from many slaves--Susan, for example, has been lulled intoconsidering herself a part (if a diminished part) of her white master'sfamily. A Long Way from Home does occasionally fall back on the patformulas of the television miniseries, and Briscoe doesn't manage to quiteignite Susan's conflicted feelings about bondage and freedom. But Susan'spostwar travails do convey the reality that Reconstruction was not only apolitical process but also a painfully personal one. --Katherine Anderson ... Read more

Customer Reviews (46)

An Ok Read
This book was set during slavery and around the beginning and end of the Civil War. I have to say that I liked but also didn't like it if that makes sense lol.I have to be honest, the story moved to slow in certain parts so it took me several days to finish it other than that it was an ok read.I wouldn't say it was a keeper but it was definitely interesting story.It's about two sisters who are biracial that get separated because one of them is sold.They eventually find each other at the end of the Civil War.

Predictable
I was surprised but basically this is a Cinderella story. Good read. Informative.
Would recommend.

Suprisingly Good!
When I started reading this, I really thought I wasn't going to like it. Briscoe's overuse of the word "drat" and its derivatives turned me off so much and the use of proper English was just too much for my limited perceptions of slave life.Slaves certainly couldn't use proper English, could they?Anyway, as I continued to read, Briscoe's characters quickly weaved their way into my heart and mind and I couldn't stop reading.I had to know what was going to happen next and that, to me, is the mark of a good book.The lives of Susie, Clara, and Susan became so fascinating that I left my negativity behind and kept turning the pages.Briscoe has taken her family history, coupled with her vivid imagination, and created a novel that is a shining example of great talent.

Fantastic book that stays true to the heart
I remember reading this book at it's release in 1999 and it stuck to me for quite some time. I have thoroughly enjoyed Connie Briscoe previous books as well which were "Sisters and Lovers" and "Big Girls Don't Cry" but "A Long Way From Home" had touched me the most. This book was so entertaining I could not stop reading! It was a joy to read even though I felt heartache for the characters during their dark times.

This book brings us three generations of women whom are, first of all, survivors. They are strong, courageous and trapped in a nearly-hopeless situation. Overworked and sleep deprived, the women have to watch out for all kinds of hazards -- including the possibility of rape. Susie, a house slave, has to be very strict on her young daughter Clara; should Clara not please the owners with her work, she could be punished, sold or forced to work in the fields -- an even harsher life. Clara, in turn, continues this practice with her two daughters.

Briscoe writes about her own ancestors, using family stories handed down through the generations, research she's done, and an obvious love of the subject matter. She succeeds in weaving together a fascinating biography of sorts. It's a stirring account of the everyday lives of slaves in the South before and during the Civil War. Not many black authors write from a historical perspective. She also paid tribute to her ancestors by detailing the harshness and brutality that slaves often endured. A key point that was referenced in the book was the differences in mentality between the house slaves and the field hands.

"A Long Way From Home" is destined to be a "must" for Black History Month, but it is a wonderful read for anyone of any ethnic background. Of course, the Civil War brings on many changes, also documented in the book. When finally free, the former slaves still face many hardships, but their courage and tenacity wins out in the end. You'll go away with a better understanding of, and with new respect for, what the blacks in the South had to endure. Highly recommended.

Heart-warming book
I love reading books about the South. And, I'm a big history buff, so I really enjoy reading books that center around slavery and The Civil War era. This was really good. It was easy to read, and it completely held my attention from the time I started with the first page and when I finished reading the last page. The subject matter is quite a bit touchy, but if you can look past that and read the narrative you will undoubtedly enjoy the story. ... Read more

Product Description
In the sprawling homes and upscale townhouses of the exclusive, largely African American Prince George’s County, the lives of five women intersect–and the secrets, scandals, loves, and losses that ensue are par for the course where power, beauty, and wealth reside.

Barbara is the most influential woman in this swanky neighborhood, but she’s got her hands full–one hand is busy dealing with her husband’s wandering eye, while the other always needs a cocktail glass. Jolene is half of P.G. County’s number-two couple–and she desperately wants what she doesn’t have: namely Barbara’s husband. Pearl owns a hair salon and lives on the outskirts of the posh community with her son, Kenyatta. She’s not only juggling a growing business and a bad divorce, but now she’s has to cope with Kenyatta’s less-than-ideal girlfriend. Candice is white and liberal, but her daughter’s new beau tests her beliefs–and opens a can of worms she never knew existed. Lee is a runaway teen, a girl whose only connection to her father is an old photo and the belief that he’s well-off and waiting for her in . . .

P.G. COUNTY



From the Trade Paperback edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (95)

Stick it out while others fight
A story of people wanting it all and never being satisfed. That is Jolene. Then there is Barbara whol has it all materially but her husband is the woman's man and although he does respect her, he feels that she has everything to make her satisfied and he has the world and all to keep him please.
I felt sorry for Lee but happy to know that she found her Daddy and through him a different life would be in store for her.
Pauline had done well raising her son but wanted him protected from the ills of society as she had seen what could have happened because of the love of a person of a different.
Jolene has no shame and quite a flirt. She just needed a husband to be a father to her daughter and one who will allow her the freedome to roam in lust.
Candice has a race acceptance problem which can be solved with the relationship of her daughter and Kenyatta.
A very moving book, easy reading filled with love, demanding time.

Loved It !!!!
I love to read a good story.This book has a lot of drama and once you start reading the book, it is hard to put it down.The sequel to P.G. County is Can't Get Enough.I wish Connie had written a squeal to that one.

Connie Briscoe, Rocked.
After reading this book encouraged me to start writing books.

I love P.G County!!!

Part 2 ties up all the loose ends in In Can't Get Enough.

Truley Just a Soap Opera
This book was a soap opera with black charachters.If you like soaps and soap opera-like drama, read this book.The book really had no point--except to entertain--like soaps do.It was a page-turner and interesting soap opera-like things happened (at a party, one girl held someone hostage with a gun while making demands).It was OK as shallow entertainment.

Predictable.....................
This was an all around bad story. Characters do things that have you thinking "huh". Makes no sense and parts are so predictable. Not interesting at all. ... Read more

Product Description
Born into a comfortable Washington, D.C., home, Naomi leads a life that is only occasionally marred by racism. As a teenager in the 1960s, her biggest concern centers around virginity. But all that changes when her older brother, Joshua--who seems destined for greatness--is killed in a tragic car accident on his way to a civil rights demonstration. Now the rift between black and white America becomes much too personal, and Naomi embarks on a journey to honor her brother's legacy--and to find herself. From the author of "Sisters & Lovers". ... Read more

Customer Reviews (49)

Still the better Briscoe!
Ironically, I am writing this review after just having finished another Connie Briscoe book, PG County. Though PG County was fun to read, it will not stay with me like Big Girls Don't Cry has. I read "Big Girls" several times because I loved it so much. I have passed it on to several friends to read also.I won't do that with PG County. Read Big Girls Don't Cry, you won' regret it! I still think it is the better Briscoe! :)

Great Read

I enjoyed this read for a book club.We all did in fact.

Powerful
I read this book long ago and decided to read it again for our book club.This is an excellent book.The flow of the story was smooth and had you wanting for more.It was like you were there with Naomi...it all seemed so real.It's about Naomi Jefferson from a teenager to a grown woman and the obstacles she faced with society such as race and sex discrimination, confidence, and realizing her worth.Great book!!

One of my alltime favorites
I love this book from beginning to end. Great Read!!!!!!!!!

REVELATION
the title says it all. i found this book at the library on sale for a dollar. i havent been able to put it down! the character naomi reminded me alot about myself and this book really encouraged me to stay focused and never give up..I just finished it today and im going to the book store to catch up on all connie's books.. I must say I'm lucky to have stumbled upon sucha good heart-felt and energetic book.. ... Read more

Product Description
Photographer Michael Cunningham (coauthor of Crowns) and author Connie Briscoe, a New York Times bestselling novelist, profile 50 women over the age of 50 who have been remarkably successful--whether in reaching the top of the corporate ladder, finding fame in politics or the arts, or raising a son to be proud of a single mother--and reveal the ways that they have prevailed despite daunting obstacles. Their stories are paired with Cunningham's intimate portraits of the women.

Customer Reviews (9)

Inspirational
This book is not only inspirational for women of color; but for all women.The pictures are breath taking

Beyond Phenomenal
The book "Jewels" 50 Phenomnal Women had been on my Wish List for awhile and I got it! The cover alone featuring Ruby Dee who is my favorite female actor sold the book to me. I learned so much reading the stories of each of the featured women. Surprisingly a few of the women I had never heard of touched my heart with their unique career paths, struggles, strength, and sucess. Clara Villarose of Hue-Man Bookstore won my heart with her vision and determination. I had known of Johnetta Betsch Cole, President of Bennett College for Women but had no idea what a huge role model she is and how much she shared about her career path and her deep love of family. S.Eptha Merkerson I love watching on Law Order almost daily but her film roles are always off the chart and her theater roles. I had to get out a highlighter reading her advice. Billie Allen, an actor and director was a delightful surprise. I loved all of the women and feel this a must read for any woman of any age but especially at 50. I'm proudly 57 and enjoyed this book sooooo much! Great job to Michael Cunningham & Connie Briscoe for putting together such an full spectrum of phenomenal women.

Jewels: 50 Phenomenal Women Over 50
I received this book in a very timely manner and it was in excellent condition. The book itself is a treasure trove of beautiful pictures and well written text of accomplished African American women aged 50 years and older. I gave this book as a birthday present to a woman turning 50 and it was a welcome gift. I own this book, it was given to me as a Mother's Day present. You can't go wrong with this item, it's perfect for women of all ages and all ethnic backgrounds!

Jewels: Indeed they are!
What's not to love about 50 beautiful black women over the age of 50? I was sold on the cover alone. Ruby Dee is one the most beautiful women of all time and she does not get the recognition that she so richly deserves.
The book is my coffee table, do I need to say anything else?

Diverse Book
It was so wonderful to see so many strong African American women who are in so many fields. I gave it as a gift to a family member for Christmas and it was passed around so much, everyone wants a copy! Kudos to the photographer for capturing the personalities of these remarkable women. ... Read more

Product Description
This digital document is an article from Ebony, published by Johnson Publishing Co. on May 1, 2005. The length of the article is 436 words. The page length shown above is based on a typical 300-word page. The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase. You can view it with any web browser.

Citation Details
Title: Connie Briscoe: best-selling author and novelist.(Center Stage)
Publication: Ebony (Magazine/Journal)
Date: May 1, 2005
Publisher: Johnson Publishing Co.
Volume: 60Issue: 7Page: 24(1)

Distributed by Thomson Gale ... Read more

Product Description
This digital document, covering the life and work of Connie Briscoe, is an entry from Contemporary Authors, a reference volume published by Thompson Gale. The length of the entry is 2011 words. The page length listed above is based on a typical 300-word page. Although the exact content of each entry from this volume can vary, typical entries include the following information:

• Place and date of birth and death (if deceased)
• Family members
• Education
• Professional associations and honors
• Employment
• Writings, including books and periodicals
• A description of the author's work
• References to further readings about the author

Product Description
Doubleday Direct Large Print Hard Cover Edition, 1999. A powerful novel that traces the lives of three generations of women living on the Madison plantation in Virginia. 640 pp ... Read more