I could go on an on about each and every story with Rauf’s collection, because each story is discussion worthy. Even though each story was set in a different place and time, there was a connection. Not the characters, not the theme, but the eloquent manner in which Rauf was able to write about birth, death and the things that come in between. There were a few editing issues, but overall the errors did not take away from the stories. I recommend Before Life: A Collection of Short Stories to readers of this genre and those who are looking for a morsel of goodness to read very quickly.

Two years has passed since Xavier and Pilar went their separate ways. They did not leave each other in a cordial manner. While Xavier attempts to go on with his life Pilar has been laying in wait, plotting and scheming about the perfect way to get him back, revenge style. They come face-to-face once again [...]

Johnson White High School has a new Principal and her name is Sharon Grayson. She’s not new to controversy, nor is she moved by standardized test scores that measure student achievement. Sharon believes that the biggest hindrance to her students is the social evils that hound them every second of the day. After a creative back-to-school orientation goes awry; parents, students, and the media begin questioning her credentials.

I recommend this to readers stemming from teenagers to adults. There is a message here for all to see. With more authors, like Mr. Moore, tackling such a strong subject matter, I hope all the blind eyes will finally be able to see.

How to Quench A Thirst Born in the Wilderness by Ophelia Brown is a book of poetry from a sad place within the heart. The journey is of constant loss, heartbreak and letdowns. I wish I could find a way to heal the broken heart and the deception that cause so much pain. As the verses continued on a positive growth could be seen, only to slip right back into the abyss of loss again.

As teenagers Poppy Carlisle and Serena Gorringe were the only witnesses to a high-profile murder. Amid heated public debate, the two seemingly glamorous teens were dubbed “The Ice Cream Girls” by the press and were dealt with by the courts-Poppy headed to prison after being convicted for murder and Serena was set free.

Aura Brown is a beautiful, successful attorney who has lived openly as a lesbian for years. She and former partner, Ryoko had a child through artificial insemination, who she is parenting singly, that is until Ryoko decides to move back to town. Complicating things even more, Aura has caught serious feelings for the handsome, mysterious, Malcolm Broaii…

Scandals is a hot and steamy kind of story. The plot twists were so unexpected and at times jaw dropping. The story perhaps could have fared better with fewer gratuitous sex scenes. Readers of drama will find Scandals entertaining.

Alex has got this one in the bag. She is about to break the chained hands of the Old Boys Club and join the ranks of senior management. All she is waiting for is confirmation from the board. She welcomes the one last opportunity to dazzle them. Her presentation is all set, she’s ready to make the pitch. Piece of cake. And in walks Daniel. Tall, dark, and luscious. Where did he come from? Who is he? How was he hired without her knowledge? His presence sends her into a tailspin.

New Dawn tells the story of two very complex men and two resolute women who are fierce in their mannerisms, sharp tongued, bold in their actions, protective as lionesses and determined to take what belongs to them – but, will they succeed?