THE STRONG SILENT TYPE - C. Kelly Richardson
New American Library
January 2005
SYNOPSIS: The #1 "Essence" bestselling author is back with the touching and memorable story of an athlete and a single mother who experiences the hard bargain between healing and forgiveness--and the unexpected joys that come from taking risks.
MAINSTREAM FICTION: (4+) Alvin Romer (Recommended - Award of Excellence)
REVIEW: C. Kelly Robinson improves with each novel he writes, and his latest, The Strong
Silent Type doesn’t disappoint. This is a thought-provoking tale of two people caught up in an opportunistic situation that benefits
the two people trying to come to grips with a dilemma without losing reality. The author takes a human handicap and weaves a page-turning
delight. Speech impediments can sometimes be so devastating as to decimate confidence and render one submissive despite intentions otherwise.
Such was the situation with Deacon Davis, former football star and son of a renowned civil rights leader. In this case, the author uses
stuttering to give a nice spin to a classical romance with an interesting twist.
I loved the character of Deacon as it harkens back to something personal with me, for I too, stumbled and stuttered, looking for acceptance to
enhance a perceived shortcoming. Like Deacon, I prevailed without losing the more important things in life – belief in yourself and
perseverance. To make this story work on a believable note, the author took us on a journey with many highs and lows, and in the end was able
to bring it all together. Success abounds engagingly as Deacon interacts with Maria, who has problems on her own, but was able to rectify the
wrongs that plagued her.
The Strong Silent Type is exceptional in the way this author brings yet another analogy to the
tale and that is trying to find a way where the protagonist struggles to enhance his father's legacy despite his articulation or lack of same.
This is a perfect union for two people coming to grips with problematic issues that truly tug at the heart, giving new meaning to looking
intrusive within for a better outward perception. C. Kelly Robinson will be a force to be reckoned with if he continues to write with such
passion and panache. This book will appeal to those who will not allow complacency to hold dominion over a greater need to overcome adversity.
As such, this author is on a collision course with greater acceptance. Buy this book where books are sold!
alvin@romanceincolor.com (1st April 2005)