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LOOK BOTH WAYS - Joan Early Genesis Press/Indigo January 2009 |
SYNOPSIS: Early presents a powerful and poignant tale that introduces a beautiful business executive who finds herself at odds with a crusading minister who captures her heart.
CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE |4| Marguerite Lemons
REVIEW: Susan
Cross has just moved from Canton, Ohio, to Houston, Texas, after being promoted
to head of production at Sealand Prime Financial. Rev. Willard “Will”
Cartwright, is an accountant by trade, second generation minister and
civil-rights activist. Susan and Will clash on her first day on her new job,
when her nemesis and co-worker, Price, directs Will and members of his
congregation to her office to voice their complaints about Sealand’s lending
practices. Susan’s knees weaken and tremble at the sight of Will, and she
wonders how can she possible be attracted to a man she’s never met, let alone a
minister. Will never believed in love at first sight, until he sees Susan, but
he manages to make a mess of their first meeting when he accuses her of covering
up for her company’s misdeeds. The two of them manage to overcome their initial
trials and embark on a passion-filled relationship, until Susan’s job and Will’s
life are put on the line.
Susan and Will have both had their hearts broken in failed marriages, and have
both been licking their wounds for years. Each is afraid of rejection, but Will
finally decides to put his heart on the line. He and Susan have an uphill
battle, against their own demons, as well as, her job, co-worker’s and the
members of his congregation. The only problem I had with Susan was that she too
quick to judge Will and refused to listen to him when he attempted to explain
his side. Will, on the other hand, was just a little too complacent for me. I
understand that ministers have to practice what they preach, but he allows his
congregation to run his life. Susan’s mom, Tammy, and her friend and co-worker
Angie, have no problem telling Susan when to get off her high-horse, or how to
get the man she loves. They also provide compassion and much needed support.
Will’s parents, especially his father, give him sound advice. He also has a
god-mother and two sisters that would move heaven and earth for him.
LOOK BOTH WAYS
is well written and moderately paced. Ms. Early takes you seamlessly from
Houston to Galveston, Atlanta and Ohio, while introducing you to a host of
characters. Some who make you laugh, and a few you want to slap. This story
shows the problems successful African American females and males face sometimes
face when they are promoted to jobs that have previously been held by white
males. It also touches on domestic violence, infidelity and the death of a
child.
LOOK BOTH WAYS
is a quick and enjoyable read. I recommend it for your bookshelf or TBR pile.
reviewer@romanceincolor.com | 31st December 2008