Month: August 2024

Sisterhood Powers Through It All

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A Book Review

Single Black Female by Tracy Brown. Photo Credit: Tremaine L. Loadholt

Last night, I finished reading the second of the three books by Tracy Brown, purchased for my birthday as gifts from my best friend, and I truly like this one so much more than Hold You Down.

Don’t get me wrong, both books are sensational and the author does a great job introducing developed and layered characters to us in each delivery. Still, something about Single Black Female will stick with me for many years to come.

Below is the Amazon review I submitted:

“I Got Emotional So Many Times

And I am not afraid to admit that. “Single Black Female” is the story so many Black women can relate to.

I love how the author, Tracy Brown, depicts each character. We get a full view of each of their personalities, and it’s a believable fictional tale. I found myself connecting with each of the four women: Ivy, Coco, Nikki, & Deja. I feel like there’s a sliver of each of them within me.

Their bond and closeness reminded me of true friendship and sisterhood. I got so emotional during several chapters and at the very end as well.

It is a breath of fresh air reading a happy and positive ending. One that showcases the women having a delightful conversation and enjoying themselves amongst the peace and somewhat quiet of Brooklyn for a “picnic.”

I teared up simply thinking about the women closest to me and about my brothers and my baby sister, and how hard I would war for all of them if I had to–be it against authoritative figures or their friends and loved ones.

The power and authenticity of love and its effectiveness of a genuine friendship know no bounds and can withstand any evil. And Tracy Brown does such an amazing job portraying that with this book.

I highly recommend it!”

If you’re looking to pick up a book that will stir something alive in you and make you remember just how grateful you are for friendship and love amid turmoil, this book will do exactly that.

“Who’s Gonna Tell Him?”

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Because I felt like sharing a little something that sat down in my spirit and had itself a peaceful rest.

Michelle Obama and one of her many clapbacks. YouTube Short

Long, Overdue Venom: One-Lined Poem

Lady Obama spews long, overdue venom in the direction of a
man who believes Black people aren’t suitable for various
jobs birthed of and around their upper echelon counterparts;
and it’s a clapback doused in class.

Happy Friday, beautiful people!

“Hold You Down” Held Me Captive

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A Book Review

Hold You Down by Tracy Brown. Photo Credit: Tremaine L. Loadholt

A co-worker recommended this book several months back, and I told my best friend (when asked) to please get it for my birthday. She did exactly that, along with two more books the author wrote.

It took me about a week and two days to read this one. That is because I had to sit with some scenes for a while and allow them to run through me, to take their course, so to speak. It is a heavy read.

However, I truly did not want to turn away from it, I simply had to in order to preserve my peace.

Below is the Amazon review:

“An Ending I Did Not Envision for the Book

“Hold You Down” reminds me of my summers spent in The Bronx or on Long Island, and my time growing up on the east side of Savannah, Georgia.

I cried. I got upset. I shook my head in disgust. There were so many chapters that rendered me speechless and appalled in this book. And not in a bad way, but more like a reflection of the teenage boys I knew up north and the slightly older young men I knew from around the way.

Lenox reminds me of one of my aunts. I smiled thinking about how alive and untameable she always has been, but also how she brings so much joy to others around her.

This book is not only breathtaking, it will have you feeling devastated about the trials life throws our way, aggravated about the many labels we toss at Black boys and men, and yearning for family you miss and will never see again.

The author was calculated in her language selection and writes in a way that is relatable and connects with the reader. I found myself not wanting to put the book down many nights.

Although it was such a great read, the ending left me feeling like something is amiss; it seems unfinished–unsettled.

But overall, I look forward to reading it again. I am sure there is much more to be dissected the second time around.”

I have already started reading one of the other books written by Tracy Brown, and I’m toes deep into the plot. I think this is another page-turner. Stay tuned.

My Babies: Jernee Timid & Zumi Tye

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Lune, 4 Parts

Jernee Timid: Chilling on my bed, watching my every move. Photo Credit: Tremaine L. Loadholt
Jernee Timid: Standing before me, challenging my stance on authority. Photo Credit: Tremaine L. Loadholt

a calming presence
Mommy’s girl
guards my every move

how miraculous
eyes that swirl
blue settles in now

Zumi Tye: Eating a breakfast of cucumbers & blueberries. Photo Credit: Tremaine L. Loadholt
Zumi Tye: Diving into leftovers for dinner. Photo Credit: Tremaine L. Loadholt

a greedy reptile
making moves
sustenance prevails

beautiful colors
and markings
Zumi, the tortoise

Séduire (It’s Almost Time)

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Publishing date is October 30, 2024

Séduire: Serial Tales & Flash Action
Séduire Video announcement. Created by Tremaine L. Loadholt

Séduire is a collection of serial fiction tales
and flash fiction standalone stories written over a period
of three years. I want you to feel something,
and with these stories, you will.

For those of you who have always supported me, thank you. I hope you will do so again when Séduire: Serial Tales & Flash Fiction is published on October 30, 2024.

Are you interested in reading my previously published books? You can do so here.

Stay Tuned.