~ Review: Destiny's Song ~

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DESTINY'S SONG

Kim Louise

BET/Arabesque

1-58314-173-1

December 2001

(4) Nathasha Brooks-Harris

Contemporary Romance

PLOT SYNOPSIS: 

REVIEW: 

Destiny Chandler, an attractive photo-historian, needs to get away. Free at last of her abusive boyfriend Rico, she desperately needs to unplug. So she visits her old flame, Davis, in Hotlanta for some well-deserved R&R.

Enter Xavier Allgood, the popular R&B recording artist who’s as handsome as he is talented. He’s Davis’s newest client and it is Xavier’s latest CD that Destiny takes from her best friend as a going away present of sorts.

Destiny and Xavier’s paths cross when he discovers her doing a song and dance routine to one of the tunes on his CD.  He’s thoroughly enchanted by the beautiful mystery woman who sings like an angel. However, his  sudden presence startles and frightens Destiny and she feels unsafe, so she literally (and figuratively) knocks him off his feet. It’s “on” for them at that point. Destiny is unaware that her crazy ex, Rico, has plans to break out of jail and turn her life upside down. 

DESTINY'S SONG is a wonderful first book from this incredibly talented new author. Finely crafted, this novel is a quick, fun read. It’s fast-paced and laced with plenty of intrigue and recording industry glamour--so much so that you will not want to put it down. Prepare yourself for a night of non-stop reading by lining up no-fuss entrees or pull out those trusty take-out menus because you’ll surely need them so you can finish reading this great book. There’s no way you’ll want to miss being part of Xavier and Destiny’s romance unfolding or the drama Destiny experiences with Rico.

Stylistically, the plot is lush and Louise takes it in a new, very interesting direction. There’s nothing banal and mundane here. She takes the plot to another level, then twists it to the nth degree. The storyline is set in Nebraska and Louise very subtly and successfully drops historic facts about that state into the storyline and dialogue--which is great for readers who have no clue that blacks reside there.

Louise’s characters are very visual and are so real that they seem like people that any of us would know.  For example, Jacq is Destiny’s  wise-cracking, quick-witted, around-the-way-girl best friend.  She never disappoints us with her straight up viewpoints about any and everything.  Sammy Jam  is a Baptist preacher who plays a mean bass in Xavier’s band.  He doles out fire and brimstone sermons on Sunday mornings and sage advice to all who’ll listen the rest of the week.  Rico is crafted as being a royal pain in the rear, as well as being totally mad.  Star is a minor character who makes a cameo appearance, but adds some comic relief with her refreshing blend of book and street smarts.

Overall, DESTINY'S SONG is an excellent book that will win a place in your heart with its ultra romantic plot and original song lyrics.  Be forewarned that this book is replete with touching, heartfelt romance that will have you reaching for a hankie before long. It’s a keeper and should be on the bookshelf of any romance aficionado.

If DESTINY'S SONG is any indication of what this author can do, it will be difficult to wait for her next work. Kim Louise is sure to build up a loyal fan base on the basis of this novel!

26th December 2001