Book Reviews

This is a help book for all abused women and girls. It tells of Rebecca's life of being abused by a past boyfriend Roy. She is happily married to a wonderful man and is a rich lady with everything she could ever want, but, she can never forget what happened to her a few years back.

She started dating Roy because her boss set her up with a friend, but sometimes he would be nice and then sometimes see, like a different person. When she decided to break it off with him she had no idea of the man she was dealing with.

Even after he was sent to prison and she found out he was released she didn't tell her husband and let him go on a business trip. She was always watching over her shoulder and though she saw him everywhere.

My thoughts on this book. It really opened my eyes to what is going on in this world. I am so thankful that I have never had to deal with this abuse. Beware if you are sensitive on explicit sex and words that it offend. The book will be a great read for anyone that has ever been abused so thanks to Becky Due for writing it.

"Rebecca’s life just keeps getting better. With Jack away on business, she’s looking forward to four days alone to work on her new client's PR campaign to help women take back their lives. But her past intrudes. Roy, the man who stalked and assaulted her years before, has been released from prison. Home alone in her big, beautiful house out in the country, Rebecca has to learn to take back her own life while facing her fears and regaining her strength. But will she be strong enough when she faces the ultimate test?"

I think this is a great book for women and girls because Becky Due's character's are strong, independent women. In this book, Due tells the story of Rebecca who has finally gotten everything she wants in life. She has a great hubby, a sweet pug Lily, a gorgeous house, and a wildly successful PR firm. But then she discovers that a man she sent to prison is about to be released. This man, Roy, had dated Rebecca a few times but then began stalking her and ultimately assaulting her. Rebecca had the courage to press charges to make sure he was put away.

With Roy's release, Rebecca starts to fear every noise and shadow she sees. With her husband out of town, her nerves are even more shot. But as the story progresses, Rebecca realizes that she needs to take control of her life and stop being the victim.

This central theme of being a survivor and embracing life is one that everyone can and should relate to. Instead of sitting around complaining about life and wallowing in self pity, Rebecca gets up and changes her life. I think we can all learn something from Becky Due's characters. Overall, I think this is a good book that is very successful in portraying women in a strong, positive light.

Rebecca’s life just keeps getting better. With Jack away on business, she’s looking forward to four days alone to work on her new client’s PR campaign to help women take back their lives. But her past intrudes. Roy, the man who stalked and assaulted her years before, has been released from prison. Home alone in her big, beautiful house out in the country, Rebecca has to learn to take back her own life while facing her fears and regaining her strength. But will she be strong enough when she faces the ultimate test?

How scary would it be to find out that the man who stalked and attacked you, the man you helped send to prison, has been released? On top of that your husband is away on business and you are alone, out in the country. I love a thriller/suspense, but this book was different. It was about what many women have gone or will go through and that made it seem more real. It's about taking charge of your life and doing whatever it takes to protect yourself. It's about not living in fear anymore, but feeling empowered to improve your life.

This is a book every woman should read. It may be hard for some, but I think all women could benefit from it in one way or another. It will make you want to get out there and do something you always wanted to do, but didn't because of self doubt. This is the first time I've read this author, but I hope to read more from her in the future.

Juju at Tales of Whimsy.com said... Random thought: She looks like Lisa Kudrow :)

Mystica said... Scary and I think lots of people would be very nervous of this situation. Thanks for highlighting this book

If you want a great suspense book that will keep you on the edge of your seat right up until the end of the book, then Returning Injury is the book for you! It is full of suspense, emotion, highs and lows! Very well written, the main characters are well developed and I just could not put this book down! I love that the main character, Rebecca is such a strong and independent woman. Her character goes through an unimaginable situation with a stalker and this book shows just how strong us women can be when we have to be! And it also shows that despite horrible circumstances, we can move on and be much stronger because of the pain! This book is a total celebration of that! Kudos to the author for portraying the issues of stalking and violence towards women in the sensitive manner that she did.

This was a fast read. An exciting read. At times a difficult read. But a very worthwhile read.

Rebecca survived an attack by a stalker boyfriend. After several failed attempts he is finally sent to jail. While he is in jail Rebecca finds her dream husband. A man who supports her efforts to provide low cost Public Relations work for women who support other women. She lives a very comfortable life but her stalker is always in the back of her mind.

Then she gets word that he is being released. What she doesn't know is that Roy (the stalker) has been making threats against her. He feels all that has gone wrong in her life is her fault. He slips away from his parole officer and sets off to find her.

What follows is a very suspenseful novel. It builds slowly and very realistically to a satisfying conclusion. Rebecca doesn't want to feel she needs her husband to protect her. She wants to be able to be a strong, confident woman in spite of her past. Will she be able to do that? I'm not going to tell! But the book is a good read that keeps you looking over your shoulder.

This was a very fast paced book to read through and if you have ever been in an abusive relationship this book will appeal to you. Not only does the author tell a suspenseful story about Rebecca, who has everything she always wanted. A loving husband, beautiful home and an enjoyable career keeps Rebecca from thinking about episodes in her past with a former boyfriend. There was a man who she thought she loved but came to find out that there is more to Roy than meets the eye and what she finds is downright scary. She thinks that Roy has been in prison for the last 5 years and feels relatively safe until she finds out that Roy is out. There are also coyotes hanging around her yard. So now she is fearful of even going outside to take her dog, Lily, for a walk. Her husband Jack is on a business trip and Rebecca is left alone with her dog and her thoughts of her past with Jack and Roy. She has her own PR business and one of her clients is a woman who had had an abusive relationship and is using this to be a speaker for women's rights and how to be safe as a woman without being made to feel that a woman deserves to be abused physically, mentally and emotionally and that no matter what teaches that you can get your life back. While going through her client Angie's work, Rebecca has read a lot about prostitutes and their lives of abuse. To quote a paragraph in Returning Injury: " Rebecca wrote," there is a definite disconnection in society about prostitution. Should men be convicted of violence against women, and women given mandatory help? Clearly, these women are hurting and need help. Better education? Separate education for boys and girls about these issues? Whose fault is it when we are bombarded with sex every day? We have allowed the sex industry and violence against women to become acceptable, mainstream." This is a compassionate story about how a woman overcomes her fears from her abuser and learns to live her life without fear. I enjoyed this story and I think that all women should read this book. It is a combination of suspense, love, violence and self help.

As stated before, I received this book as part of the virtual blog tour and was not compensated monetarily for my review.

Returning Injury by Becky Due shows how far a woman, in this instance the protagonist, Rebecca is willing to go to be safe. Rebecca is a strong woman who has dealt with and to some extent is still dealing with her past. When Rebecca lived in Cheyenne, Roy Smythson could not get over her and he stalked her, went through her personal belongings, correspondence, as well as her garbage until one day he attacked her. Rebecca manages to get away and call for help. Rebecca now owns her own PR firm and her client Angela is an advocate for women and children, which opens up a wide avenue of topics. Due handles several intense issues in her book Returning Injury and handles the topics deftly and with strong women, especially Rebecca. This book may be a rather emotional read for anyone who has suffered abuse, thankfully I have never been in such a situation, however, I learned a lot from the book and hope others will as well. Returning Injury keeps the reader deeply engaged since it is not a light read and one that makes the reader take stock of their surroundings and their life. I personally believe women as well as men, could get something out of this book and firmly believe Returning Injury would make for an absolutely fantastic discussion group book, as there are so many deep issues to be discussed.

My novels will always celebrate the fun, strength and independence of women, because I believe women are fun, strong and should always maintain independence.

In my twenties, I had this ability to run from my problems, and I was good at it. But when I found my passion, writing, and was able to settle down in my life, I learned that my experiences were not only my own—Women share a common bond because of our experiences.

I wrote Returning Injury because I've known victims of stalking, so I know the torment and fear that stalking instills. The national statistics are frightening but nothing compares to how horrifying stalking is to the victim. Nobody is safe from stalking, including celebrities such as Ivanka Trump, Kim Kardashian, David Letterman and ESPN sports reporter Erin Andrews.

When I decided to write the suspense novel, Returning Injury, I needed Rebecca to have a solid relationship with her husband Jack. And as I wrote their love story, it started to resemble my own love story, including my fears and doubts about love and trust.

Once upon a time, I was one of those women who vowed to be alone and to never re-marry. I was happy, strong and independent, and I didn’t need a man to complete me. I took pride in being a single woman. But when this great man came along, I couldn’t let him go—I had to marry him. I’m thankful I gave love another try and conquered my fears about love.

One of my favorite parts of Returning Injury is when Rebecca realizes the importance of her relationships with other women and how her tough childhood friends carried her throughout her life. Even when her friends weren’t around, their feisty attitudes shaped her and guided her through every aspect of her life. I wouldn’t be who I am today without my friends. I am blessed.

My friendships with beautiful, strong, fun, open-to-happily-ever-after women and my personal experiences with love, fear and having trust in myself have influenced this novel about celebrating women’s strength, Returning Injury.

I love to read books that help empower women to see that no matter what the rest of the world might think, we are strong and worth just as much as the man standing in line with us. Becky touched on a lot of issues that plague women in the world today, and helps to show that there are many forms of abuse that us women face daily. All of Becky's character's are strong, independent women who aren't afraid to take charge and go for what they want. The main character, Rebecca, has finally gotten everything she wants in life, but is plagued by the imminent release of her abusive-stalker ex that she sent to prison years ago. With his release looming and her wonderful hubby out of town; Rebecca and her pug "Lily" are left home alone and during that time Rebecca is very nervous of every noise she hears. Throughout the story Rebecca realizes she needs to take control of her life and stop being the victim. Overall, I think this is a good book that is very successful in portraying women in a strong, positive light.

…I was exceedingly impressed with the research done on the subjects regarding women's issues, abuse of all forms, pornography and prostitution. I would highly recommend the book to any person struggling with any of the aforementioned issues.

Book Review: Returning Injury by Becky Due Returning Injury by Becky Due is the story of Rebecca who is haunted by by abusive ex-boyfriend during a stormy weekend alone in her big house. Rebecca has been happily married for 5 years with a solid career in Public Relations when she finds out the a man she once dated who attacked her has been released from prison. Becky weaves a very suspenseful story delving into the world of women and abuse. As Rebecca researches her latest PR client, she begins to recall the ups and downs of her relationship with her ex-boyfriend countered by fond memories with her husband. Her real and imagined fears culminate to show the power and she strength she was able to have in the face of terror.

This book held me on the edge of my seat. I felt the same emotions portrayed in the main character and thought about how I would behave if I were in the same situation. Returning Injury was easy to read and uncomplicated even though it dealt with a very deep subject. I learned a lot about how to protect myself and be strong in the face of fear. I would recommend this book to women who need to know they can overcome danger in frightening situations.

In Returning Injury, Rebecca is trying to recover from an abusive relationship with Roy. He had stalked and attacked her. He was eventually caught and placed in prison. She meets and marries a great man Jack, who is very successful and gives her everything a woman would want. When Roy is released from prison, she does not tell her husband and allows him to go on a business trip. She decides to stay home alone and she keeps herself busy working on some PR information about abused women for a friend. Strange things begin to happen and she fears that Roy has returned. Does Roy return and is she able to face her fears and move on? I guess you have to read the book to find out the answers to those questions.

There are many problems that everyone may face in their lives and abuse is very common in society today. The storyline shows that every person who has experienced abuse can overcome their fears and move on with their lives. The book was well written and was full of suspense, emotion, love and hope. This is a great book for anyone who has been abused and I especially liked how the author incorporated the PR work into the story.

Compelling Story, June 1, 2010 This review is from: Returning Injury (Paperback) "Returning Injury" by Becky Due is a surprisingly compelling book. The author weaves together the earlier life experiences and memories of the protagonist, Rebecca, with the current, edge-of-your seat events in a way that makes both more meaningful. I particularly enjoyed the technique of Rebecca's PR work as a way to get across the message about abuse. The struggle of one individual woman to understand and overcome abuse veers into being a little preachy in a few spots, but the overall story is effective and powerful, and I found myself enjoying getting to know Rebecca and her story. A few of the moments in the story are more violent than I would have preferred, and there were a few secondary characters I wanted to have more fleshed out. But overall, a very good read!

Poignant and Compelling, June 1, 2010 This review is from: Returning Injury (Paperback) Returning Injury by Becky Due is a captivating novel about fear and courage and a young woman named Rebecca. Rebecca is a survivor of severe abuse suffered from a former boyfriend, Roy. Rebecca was responsible for putting Roy in prison. During the time he was in prison, Rebecca has created a new life for herself with a new job and husband. Rebecca discovers Roy has gotten out of prison and suddenly she is overwhelmed with all her old fears and insecurities. In the course of her new job, Rebecca has come in contact with a woman who lectures on women's abuse issues. Seeing her own experience reflected in the speaker's lectures, Rebecca starts to examine her own life and the values she has absorbed.

The author uses this context to bring out a lot of information on abuse and how it affects women and all of society. This story allows the reader to made aware of the abuse of women and how it is tolerated and even encouraged in our society. It makes the reader question why it exists and what can be done about it.

Returning Inhury, May 29, 2010 This review is from: Returning Injury (Paperback) This is a help book for all abused women and girls. It tells of Rebecca's life of being abused by a past boyfriend Roy. She is happily married to a wonderful man and is a rich lady with everything she could ever want, but, she can never forget what happened to her a few years back.

Thanks to Word Press for sending me a copy for review:

A Celebration of Women Everywhere!, May 29, 2010 PMP Exam Prep Questions, Answers and Explanations is a lifesaver! The practice quizzes really prepared me for test day and gave me explanations for each question to give me a better understanding of what I was studying. I was scared to take the test until I go this book. It gave the confidence to pass the test. A great resource for ANY student!

Awesome new author, May 27, 2010 This review is from: Returning Injury (Paperback) So I picked this book up one night and literally could not put it down. I was a little leery at first since I had never read one of Becky Due's books before. Yet, as soon as I started I was sucked into the story. For a new author I was incredibly impressed by the writing style, and the intertwining of facts and fiction. At times I felt the women's issues were hitting me over the head with the repetitiveness, but they never seemed out of place in the story, and what was said needs to be heard. If you like fiction and suspense please check out this book. It was definitely worth the read.

A window on how traumatic experiences can shape one's outlook on life., This review is from: Returning Injury (Paperback) This book is about a woman named Rebecca. Rebecca met a man named Roy and the dated for awhile. She decided that Roy was not right for her and she ended the relationship or at least tried to end the relationship. Roy stalked her and eventually attacked her. Roy was later caught and sent to prison for this and other crimes. In Returning Injury - A Suspense Celebrating Women's Strength By Becky Due, we have a window on how traumatic experiences can shape one's outlook on life. Rebecca takes this event in her life and while learning to cope and survive its after effects she grows and becomes stronger. Through her studies and her chosen work - doing public relations for other women that are working for women's rights to not be degraded and abused - she learn many things about the abuse and degradation of women and children and how it affects them throughout their lives. This book, while being entertaining literature, it also provides information about these problems and advice on how to approach overcoming the after affects of these situations, and suggestions on places to get help in dealing with life after abuse.

Everyone Needs to Read This, May 27, 2010 This review is from: Returning Injury (Paperback) This is one of those novels that literally tries to tell a story while really telling everyone a real story. In this case, the background message is a super important one, and something that every person needs to concern themselves with, and that is the treatment of women around the world. I know that every time I see someone bring up women's issues, the eyes start to roll, but believe me, if it was your mother or sister, aunt or daughter being victimized right now, your eyes would not be rolling.

Once I started this, I couldn't stop-- its a good message and a good read. It was very emotional for me though, because I was attacked several years ago and those fears and emotions never go away-- and just reading this brought all those feelings back for me.

This is definitely a good read, and I honestly think folks need to pick up more stuff like this. We would live in a different place if everyone did.

An introspective look at my own life!, May 26, 2010 This review is from: Returning Injury (Paperback) Returning Injury is a character driven story about Rebecca, who is someone I, and most women, could identify with. Becky Due really drew me into the story with great imagery and character development. It made me take a deeper look at myself and how I have been living my life. Filled with suspense and many surprises, it was one of those great books that you just don't want to put down. It appealed to my innate nature to want to figure things out and just when I thought I had it nailed, Becky threw in a curve ball. Lots of fun and a great story!

It really makes you think, May 25, 2010 This review is from: Returning Injury (Paperback) Becky Due has done a great job with this book, Returning Injury. I felt like I could really identify with the main character of the book. The author did such a wonderful job creating and describing the setting, characters and story that it was so easy for me to picture everything as I read along. Many times, I felt as if I were in the story myself!

At times I felt like crying, other times I felt like jumping out of my seat cheering Rebecca on! Her story really made me take a look at my own life and has stayed in my mind ever since I finished reading it. This book is just one of those that is really very difficult to put down and stop reading. I just had to know what was coming next in the story!

Will keep you up reading all night!, May 25, 2010 This review is from: Returning Injury (Paperback) This is definately a great book. Once I started reading, I couldn't stop. This book is full of thrills, surprises, and life changing facts. The main character, Rebecca, definately makes this book worth the read. She shares her story of survivig an attack from an ex-boyfriend, to finding true love and happiness, then surviving another attack from the same guy. You never know what will happen next in the book. Just when you think, you've figured out what will happen, something totally different happens. This book keeps you guessing till the very end. Returning Injury

Great Book!!, May 24, 2010 This review is from: Returning Injury (Paperback) Becky Due is a talented writer that really writes some amazing books. She writes about strong female women who accomplish many things despite being hurt and abused. "Returning Inquiry" is a book that any woman would enjoy reading. Its main character, Rebecca, was in a very abusive relationship. She had a hard time accepting the man she thought she'd love forever was capable of such abuse. It is easy to forget how prevalent abuse of women is in our society. This book hits that home. Rebecca moves on to a new relationship, but has she really let go of the pain? And what happens when the man who causedthat pain is released from prison. Once you start reading Due's novel, it will be hard to put down.

keeps you guessing, May 22, 2010 This review is from: Returning Injury (Paperback) What an interesting book! I liked this character, Rebecca, a lot. She's someone that most women will be able to identify with. She goes through real-life struggles, physically, emotionally and mentally. The suspense in this novel keeps you guessing until the end.

The author has also included a lot of real-life information on issues concerning violence against women and children. Be advised that the material is somewhat explicit. I wouldn't want my 13 year old reading this.

Overall I enjoyed this novel. It is definitely full of suspense, romance and even practical life advice. It was an easy read.

Returning Injury, May 21, 2010 This review is from: Returning Injury (Paperback) "Returning Injury" by Becky Due is a novel that explores a very real situation that thousands of women deal with every day. Rebecca is a woman with a terrible past. He was supposed to be the perfect man, loving and caring. In reality, he was a monster who delighted in abusing her. Now, she has moved on and her relationship with him is in the past, or is it? After years of abuse she still lives in fear that he will find her and finish what he started. The only way to protect ensure she is safe is to do the unthinkable.

Becky Due has written another great novel about the strength and resilience of women. The imagery she invokes with her descriptive writing is amazing. She is quickly becoming one of my favorite female authors.

Fast paced, emotional story, May 20, 2010

This review is from: Returning Injury (Paperback) Returning Injury by Becky Due will keep you turning pages and will keep you on the edge of your seat while you turn them. The story enters around a young woman named Rebecca who has overcome a past violent, abusive relationship. Roy was locked away and she moved on to a new life with a new man. She was happy and that life was in the past. But was it? This story brings the reader into Rebecca's mind and the author does an amazing job creating Rebecca's character. You will be truly frightened for her as she goes through many emotions and events when Roy is released from prison and she realizes her fear is anything but gone.

Compelling!, May 20, 2010 This review is from: Returning Injury (Paperback) Returning Injury by Becky Due is another one of her compelling novels detailing the struggles of a woman to overcome her past and find her own strength. It is the story of an abused woman, Rebecca, who has built a new life with a loving husband and interesting job. But then the new life is rocked by the knowledge that her abuser is out of prison and free to start her torment all over again. Rebecca must face her fear and deal with all the doubts and destructive thoughts that start to overwhelm her.

As Rebecca tries to deal with the abuse situation again, the author brings out pointed questions of the acceptance of violence and degradation against women in society. She makes her readers ask why it exists and how can it be stopped. This story is not a dry polemic about abused women; it is a warm, exciting story with an admirable heroine and a victorious ending. A great read for all women!

Triumph over fear, May 20, 2010 This review is from: Returning Injury (Paperback) I cheered and cried while reading Returning Injury by Becky Due. It's the story of Rebecca and it could be the story of so many of us. Rebecca has suffered violence and abuse from her former lover, Roy. Roy has been in prison and Rebecca has found safety in her new life, with a new husband and new job. She has even begun to forgive Roy. Then Roy is released from prison and Rebecca finds herself assaulted by the same feelings of fear and doubt.

In the course of her new job, Rebecca meets a woman who lectures on women's abuse issues and she begins to really question why she should have to live in fear, why violence against women is acceptable, if she can overcome her past. The answers gladden the heart of the reader and show that people can find the courage to stand up for themselves.

Walking on Eggshells, May 10, 2010 This review is from: Returning Injury (Paperback) This book by Becky Due titled "Returning Injury" is about violence and fear. We tend to step back and look long and hard about how thankful we are if you haven't experienced it aftr the book is over and the suspense and drama is gone. When you have been expose to something like this then we tend to read it with a different outlook. Yes, there is fear when you know that the person who you thought was locked away is walking around free and is able to pounce at any moment. Being able to forgive is part of the healing process and for that we need the forgiveness so we can move on. Rebecca thought in her mind she was able to move forward with another person and start a new life leaving the past behind her. Did she have to go as far as she did in the end? Read this story and decide for yourself it will have you turning the pages.

Is Forgiveness Worth the Price, May 10, 2010 This review is from: Returning Injury (Paperback) I thought this book was well written regarding a person who had been abused and learned to forgive and overcome the fears that had taunted her for so much time. Was she really able to forgive though? I think that is the real question. As long as things appeared safe in her world she was fine. It was the minutes there was doubt and questions that she reverted back to the thoughts she fought so hard to get over. Even starting over again with another man doesn't mean you can honestly start over again. Let's face it, your experiences in life make up who you are as a person. Sometimes when you think you can help someone as Rebecca thought she could it triggered thoughts in her mind behind that little black curtain. This is a hard read but a good read by Beck Due. The "Returning Injury" makes you think twice about what you are capable of doing to feel safe again.

Scary and Very Real, May 7, 2010 This review is from: Returning Injury (Paperback) "Returning Injury, A Suspense Celebrating Women's Strength" by Beck Due is a scary read for a woman. I think that anyone who has ever lived in fear of being attacked by a man or in an abusive relationship can relate to this book. Sometimes books are easy to read because you know they are made up stories but this book is a bit harder to read because it is about violence and the aftermath that so many women experience today. This book is empowering as it is about a woman who learns to overcome her fears and become a stronger person being able to live her life without fear. Reading this gets you to understand the mindset of a woman who is living in fear. It is interesting, scary and thought provocating.

Returning Injury: Lessons learned, May 6, 2010 This review is from: Returning Injury (Paperback) This was a very fast paced book to read through and if you have ever been in an abusive relationship this book will appeal to you. Not only does the author tell a suspenseful story about Rebecca, who has everything she always wanted. A loving husband, beautiful home and an enjoyable career keeps Rebecca from thinking about episodes in her past with a former boyfriend. There was a man who she thought she loved but came to find out that there is more to Roy than meets the eye and what she finds is downright scary. She thinks that Roy has been in prison for the last 5 years and feels relatively safe untill she finds out that Roy is out. There are also coyotes hanging around her yard. So now she is fearful of even going outside to take her dog, Lily, for a walk. Her husband Jack is on a business trip and Reb is left alone with her dog and her thoughts of her past with Jack and Roy. She has her own PR business and one of her clients is a woman who had had an abusive relationship and is using this to be a speaker for women's rights and how to be safe as a woman without being made to feel that a woman deserves to be abused physically, mentally and emotionally and that no matter what teaches that you can get your life back. While going through her client Angie's work, Rebecca has read a lot about prostitutes and their lives of abuse. To quote a paragraph in Returning Injury: " Rebecca wrote," there is a definite disconnection in society about prostitution. Should men be convicted of violence against women, and women given mandatory help? Clearly, these women are hurting and need help. Better education? Separate education for boys and girls about these issues? Whose fault is it when we are bombarded with sex every day? We have allowed the sex industry and violence against women to become acceptable, mainstream." This is a compassionate story about how a woman overcomes her fears from her abuser and learns to live her life without fear. I enjoyed this story and I think that all women should read this book. It is a combination of suspense, love, violence and self help.

Liked the message, May 6, 2010 This review is from: Returning Injury (Paperback) Returning Injury is a book that, as a woman, I found difficult to read. We all live in fear, on some level,of what may happen to us. Hopefully (and thankfully) for the most part, we can "simply" live our lives without having to look over our shoulder or without having to try to "get pass" an act of violence. But what about those who are not so lucky?

This story is about violence and the aftermath. It is about trying to heal, in the best way possible, and it is about taking your own life, and the responsibility for it - doing what you truly believe is the right and best thing.

I liked the writing style of this first time author and I loved that she did not cringe away from the hard story - the true story of what violence is and what it can bring.

If you are looking for an honest and real voice, this book is the one you should be reading.

Good, but scary, May 5, 2010 This review is from: Returning Injury (Paperback) While the message and storyline of this book was solid and really good, the plot itself was pretty scary. If you've ever experienced the type of terror the main character in this book does, it can be a helpful read. However, I was really not satisfied with the ending. Although the main character, Rebecca professes to forgive her attacker, Roy, she lives in constant fear of his return and ultimately kills him. The whole idea of living in fear is the main point of the book and is explained through mostly memories Rebecca has of her life. I guess what really bothered me about this was that the way Rebecca "overcame" her fear was by relying on her inner strength and killing her attacker. I think fear is defeated by taking logical steps to ensure your safety (e.g. carry a gun, lock your door), and then believing and trusting that God is in control and nothing will happen outside of what He allows. I was frustrated by Rebecca's constant denial to herself that something was wrong though - it seemed a contradiction to her personality and struggles. Overall, even though this book scared me to death and brought up old, ugly memories - the message about a woman's worth and freedom from fear made this book a worthwhile read.

Unexpected Read...., May 3, 2010 This review is from: Returning Injury (Paperback) When you try any new to you author, you don't quite know what to expect. The synopsis of the book sounds good, the cover catches your eye and you decide to take that chance. Sometimes you fall flat, other times you luck out...still sometimes you fall somewhere in the middle. For me, this book, "Returning Injury" by Becky Due, was in that happy middle place. I enjoyed the storyline, and appreciated the writing style. I found it rather curious the parrallel between the author's story and that of her characters, but they do say to write bout what you know.; perhaps that is what helped to make this one able to form the needed connections for a personable read. Recommended for adult fiction readers...curious to see what this author brings to the table next.

Life Changing!, April 27, 2010 This review is from: Returning Injury (Paperback) I read Returning Injury not knowing what to expect. I was amazed at how it changed my life. After reading this book I decided to go back to school and get my degree, something I wanted to do for years but never did. I knew I had to make a change in my life and in less than six weeks I was a college student. Thank you Becky Due for giving me the motivation to improve myself, I never expected a book to move me like this one has.

Touchable Love

Touchable Love
I cried! This is an unusual way to begin a review; however, I quickly discovered that Touchable Love by Becky Due is a book that causes all types of emotions to surface. As a person who has done considerable counseling, I found this fictional love story to be intriguing, mesmerizing, and also one that can make a positive change in lives. It is a book written by a talented author for women who want to confront the past and embrace the future. The storyline is depicted with total honesty, and I personally found it to be inspiring. The author refers to this book as "an untraditional love story," and this is true in every sense of the word as Christy, whose past sexual life has been destructive and dangerous, suddenly stops having sex because she fears becoming involved in a real relationship. She is afraid of loving and of being loved in return. Threatened by a taste of what it might feel like to have such a relationship, she quits a modeling job at an art studio and moves from Minnesota to Miami, Florida. Since Christy's real goal has been to pursue a career in photography, she accepts a job working for a famous photographer named Paul. Her assignment is to record, through photography, the experiences of this man as he is dying from AIDS. In return he promises to give her the benefit of his vast experience in the field, introduce her to people who will be of help to her future career, and leave her his equipment upon his death. But, unknown to either Christy or Paul, there proves to be fringe benefits that ultimately change Christy's life forever. Is Christy HIV positive? Does she allow herself to make a life with Brian? I have only given you a glimpse of an incredible and descriptive story. I highly recommend that women purchase this unforgettable book for themselves and a friend. It is definitely a "must read."
Bettie Corbin Tucker For IP Book Reviewers
~~~~~
Touchable Love
Is love something only limited to one man and one woman? Or is it further loosely defined? "Touchable Love: An Untraditional Love Story" is about Christy and her unusual, polyamorous, relationship with two men. With this unique relationship, she manages to clear up her past and learn to develop self-esteem and belief in herself. A story teaching people to not hate ways of life because they are different, "Touchable Love" is recommended as an original and entertaining romance. COPYRIGHT 2008 Midwest Book Review
~~~~~
Touchable Love: An Untraditional Love Story Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (4/09)
Christy has been living life in the fast lane. Her relationships consist of frequent one-night stands with no attachments. Married or not, it just doesn’t matter. She also has had a history of bulimia, and self-mutilation. She doesn’t seem to know who she really is, or have any sense of self-worth. Terrified of real love and not feeling that she deserves it, she does everything that she can to avoid it. When circumstances take her into the lives of two men, her love for them starts teaching her about having love for herself. Christy has taken on the job of photographing Paul, a man who is dying of AIDS. Paul wants to publish a book to show the world what it is like to die from this disease. He lives with the guilt of knowing that he gave this dreaded disease to his lover who died from it. Christy finds herself falling in love with Paul in a platonic way. His nearing death frightens her because she can’t picture not having him in her life. Never having had friends, he is one of the first in her life. Brian, Paul’s nurse is also someone that has become dear to Christy. Christy has to realize that she is worthy of Brian’s love and make a decision about having a real relationship with him. “Touchable Love” is a wonderful story about a woman learning to love and value her self. The two men who enter her life help start her on her journey because they make her feel like she is worth it. The life experiences that Christy shares with us are heart wrenching. But she also shows us the value of finding true friendship and how healing it can be to one’s soul. I highly recommend this novel to women who need to learn to love and value themselves. It will show them how to take steps in the right direction so that they can learn how to heal. It would also be an excellent choice for a women’s reader group because I think that it will definitely stimulate some fascinating discussions, especially by women who have escaped this cycle and can share what helped them. “Touchable Love” by Becky Due is really an interesting must-read for all.
~~~~~
Touchable Love: Book Review by Dawn "Belladonna" Thomas
This was the first book by Ms. Due that I have read. I must say that once I started it I couldn’t put it down. There are several different love stories that take place in this book. But I believe the most important message in this book is self-esteem. The main character Christy has self esteem issues and has never known love. She meets two men that will change her life forever. I highly recommend this book to all women. The stories of love and self worth are important and should be shared. I look forward to reading Ms. Due’s other books. This book is available at http://www.becky-due.com/Becky-Dues-Books.html.
~~~~~

An Untraditional Love Story Touchable LOVE Struggling to overcome her broken self-worth, beaten down self-esteem and her inner balance is what you will read as Becky Due shares with you a part of her life story. Her ability to share her feelings with her readers through the words in this book are exceptional and very effective. You will feel her emotional frustrations and inability to move forward as she lives in a world of confusion and loneliness as though they were your own. These are just a few issues that the author reveals to us, her readers in hopes to enlighten and educate us in regards to a loss of personal empowerment and self-love. She will share a love story that is untouchable in so many ways… "Touchable Love", is an inspiring unpredictable story of 3 people all brought together for reasons unknown to them. Through Becky Due's experiences, we gain a certain hind site in matters of body image, self-love, self-acceptance and inner peace. Womensselfesteem.com highly recommends: TOUCHABLE LOVE as a truly inspirational read. You will see clearly that is it initially up to us as individuals to take the action and accept the responsibility necessary to move forward. To move forward is the only way toward making positive change work and to finding an inner balance and a healthy self-esteem! DorothyL@womensselfesteem.com
~~~~~
Touchable Love
Touchable Love isn't your average romance love story. It's not about boy meets girl. Boy and girl fall in love. Boy and girl get married. They have children and live happily ever after. Nope. If that's what you want, then Touchable Love isn't the right book for you. However, if you're searching for a new kind of romance novel and one that tugs not only at your heart strings, but your intellect, then I recommend Touchable Love highly. The plot begins with a former model accepting an intern position with a homosexual dying from AIDS. He just lost his partner, and was lost without him. Before he dies, though, he helps heal the former model with his compassion, understanding, and a gift of photography. The former model learns more about love from this one man than through a lifetime of experiences. In the end, she cleans up her act: goes to a counselor, doesn't jump into bed with the guy who's in love with her, and learns to accept who she is. Touchable Love is really about a girl who meets two boys. She falls in love with both of them, except one love dies and the other love waits for her to come to terms with herself first. I recommend this book be used in schools as young as junior high and as old as college. There's much here to discuss about the roles of men and women in our society and culture. Touchable Love isn't a book to be read all at once. It must be savor like a fine wine or chocolate. I rate Touchable Love 5 stars.
Reviewed by Sami Hillard
~~~~~
“Magnificent! Becky Due’s Touchable Love is truly a gift from the heart that will inspire, empower, transform and enrich your life with a wisdom that we all need to embrace and remember!” Debbie Friedman, M.S, C.Ht., Author and Creator of Cleaning Out The Closet Of Your Mind and Manifesting Made Easy
~~~~~
“Touchable Love is a compelling story that moves quickly. Much truth, highly engaging and a great read to follow The Gentlemen's Club.”
Bob Keeton, Living Successfully Radio
~~~~~
Becky Due cares deeply about women, and this "Untraditional Love Story" is written for them-urging them to open their eyes to their own possibilities.
In the course of the story Due's young protagonist, Christy, endures loss and regret, self-doubt and isolation. The reader walks with her in her evolution to becoming a fully realized and socially responsible woman. Christy's journey of profound and complex emotions resonates with authority.
This is an important book for women. Not only does it confront important social issues, but also it inspires women to live with dignity, honesty and passion.
Judith Smithson, Author of Smithson's Island: The Necessity of Solitude
~~~~~
Is love something only limited to one man and one woman? Or is it further loosely defined? "Touchable Love: An Untraditional Love Story" is about Christy and her unusual, polyamorous, relationship with two men. With this unique relationship, she manages to clear up her past and learn to develop self-esteem and belief in herself. A story teaching people to not hate ways of life because they are different, "Touchable Love" is recommended as an original and entertaining romance.
~~~~~

From Sick to Healthy, May 31, 2010 By Firstimemom85 - See all my reviews
This review is from: Touchable Love, An Untraditional Love Story (Paperback) I think this is the best book Becky Due wrote. While acknowledging that her other books touched on important questions and issues, this is the one that really spoke to me. My very favorite part was when Christy was cleaning her apartment and Ms. Due wrote, "She believed the clutter and chaos in her apartment represented the clutter and chaos in her life. The lack of care for her apartment matched the lack of care she had for herself." The story is fairly simple, Christy, a troubled young woman, comes to help Paul, who is dying of Aids and wishes to document his journey with photography to visually warn others away from the lifestyle he has led. Christy falls in love with him and is devastated when he dies. But really, it isn't Paul's illness that the book focuses on - it's Christy's. She is carrying around many many issues from her past and this book is really about her working through those issues until she reaches a point where she is "healthy" emotionally and mentally. I'd say that any teen girl would enjoy this book because the issues Christy struggles with are issues that every woman struggles with at some point in their lives.

Not Your Ordinary Love Story......................, May 26, 2010 By Elizabeth Pou "Book Lover" - See all my reviews
This review is from: Touchable Love, An Untraditional Love Story (Paperback)
This is another great book by Becky Due. I really enjoyed reading this book. This book makes the reader open minded that love can develop in unexpected relationships. Christy is one of the first characters introduced in the story. Christy is unhappy with life and feel there is no meaning in her life. Also, Christy is a cutter and cuts herself to feel pain. Paul is an unexpected character that comes on and changes Christy's life. Paul teaches Christy how to love and feel. This is a captivating story and will leave the reader unable to put down the book.

What a touching story, May 24, 2010 By Pat M "Pat's Review" (Raleigh, NC) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Touchable Love, An Untraditional Love Story (Paperback) Becky Due scores again with "Touchable Love, An Untraditional Love Story" I thoroughly enjoyed this story and have already suggested it to a few of my friends. Christy is the main character, and the author does an amazing job developing this character. In the beginning, she is in a really low place, trying anything to find happiness and self worth. She finds heself in a lifestyle void of anything meaningful. She decides to use her love of photography to try to find meaning. Here, we meet another charater Due has done a great job developing, Paul, a man with regrets who is dying of AIDS. Christy and Paul develop an unique friendship and you'll enjoy reading how they help each other. Due creates novels with a romantic elements but that are much deeper than a regular romance novel. You will enjoy the thought process involved in this story as well as the story.

Finding Yourself, May 20, 2010 By J. Campbell (Arcanum, OH United States) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Touchable Love, An Untraditional Love Story (Paperback) Touchable love starts out with an introduction into the life of Christy, a young lady with many social and self-destruction issues. Christy uses her passion for photography to land a rather unusual job photographing the death process of Paul, a man dying from AIDS. Through the dying process of Paul, Christy gains a whole new perspective of life. Christy begins to feel an attraction to Brian, the nurse who is taking care of Paul during the last dying days of Paul's life.
Christy learns alot about self value and after the death of her boss and photo subject Paul, she takes what she has learned and used it to start a whole new way of living.
Touchable Love is a very easy read with alot of lessons along the way.

Love and much more, May 20, 2010 By M. Brown - See all my reviews
This review is from: Touchable Love, An Untraditional Love Story (Paperback) Becky Due has written another terrific book, Touchable Love, An Untraditional Love Story. This the story of Christy who finds her life so empty of love and meaning that she resorts to cutting her own skin to feel some spark of life. She runs away to Florida to take a job documenting the life of a famous photographer who is dying of AIDS. As she sees how he is dealing with his life and death, she learns to care for him. By his reciprocating her caring, he teaches her to value herself and a real love relationship. Christy also develops an intense friendship for the photographer's nurse. Together these three people create strong bonds of friendship and love.
After the photographer dies, Christy realizes that his love and death has taught her to value herself and the love she can create with others. He has given her the gift of being able to feel and share real love.

A Dance of Love, May 20, 2010 By Jack Rella - See all my reviews
This review is from: Touchable Love, An Untraditional Love Story (Paperback) Touchable Love, An Untraditional Love Story is another wonderful book by Becky Due. This is the story of Christy a beautiful girl who sees no beauty in herself or her life. Fleeing a life filled with meaningless sex, no true friends, and self-destruction, she takes a job as a photographer. Her subject is a man, Paul, who is dying of AIDS. He wants to document his life as a way to warn other people about dangerous behavior and to atone for his fear that he gave his dead lover AIDS.
Christy and Paul grow to be loving friends, each showing the value that they find in each other. Christy also meets and begins to care for Brian, the nurse assigned to take care of Paul. As these two men show Christy how they value her, she learns to value herself. After Paul's death Christy starts a new life as she reaches out to find meaningful relationships with others and with herself.
Touchable Love is a journey to self-discovery and self-love that can be a guide and inspiration for all women.

A different kind of love story...., May 16, 2010 By G. Reba (Panama City, FL) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Touchable Love, An Untraditional Love Story (Paperback) "Touchable Love, An Untraditional Love Story" by Becky Due falls into a genre that I usually avoid. This time...I'm glad I didn't. This is a touching emotional story of one woman's quest to find herself. Through self-depracating practices to promiscious behavior, the reader is given the front seat to see the changes that occur when love is not simply found outside, but within. Follow along as Christy seeks out change in her life only to discover that the changes she really needed to make started with her. The concept is not unique yet the way it is presented here is. The characters lives are touchable through the authors words...their heartache's palpable with each page turn. You will be moved by the raw emotions shared and left with a smile as she turns a new leaf in her life. Becky Due delivers a different type of love story to say the least....but I wouldn't be surprised to find her first book making its way into my reading rotation very soon. Recommended reading for older teens and adult women...

Emotional love story., May 12, 2010 By Lonna H. (Chesapeake, Va) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Touchable Love, An Untraditional Love Story (Paperback) "Touchable Love, An Untraditional Love Story" by Becky Due is a very deep and emotionally charged novel. Christy is the epitome of a wild child who is on a downward spiral toward self destruction. When she takes on a new job she is forced to take a look at her life and the value it holds. The job brings her into the live of Paul, a man dying of AIDS who wants to document his life, and Brian who is Paul's caregiver. She finds herself in the unique situation of caring for someone else. However, before she can open herself up to loving another person she needs to learn how to love herself first.
I enjoyed reading this novel. It will take you on an emotional rollercoaster ride, but in the end you are glad to have read it. I would recommend this book to every woman.

Somber and Healing, May 10, 2010 By J. Cormier (New England) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Touchable Love, An Untraditional Love Story (Paperback) Christy who has had multiple problems in her past is now on her own watching someone care for Paul, an employer and patient that she is also becoming friends with. It is starting to get hard for her to say goodbye to this person since he wants her to document his life as he is dying. His nurse in charge is the person she has been waiting to find and now finds him in the most unusual way. How will she be able to let him go when the time comes? As Paul dies in her arms she becomes a recluse only to immerge to find life again. As the photographer she started out to be she becomes even better with her style and herself being able to live again. This book "Touchable Love, an Untraditional Love Story" by Becky Due will have you reading this with a somber heart. A very good story and one for a group discussion.

Inspirational and Gratifying, May 10, 2010 By M. Stanhope "Defining normal..." (Chesapeake, VA) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Touchable Love, An Untraditional Love Story (Paperback) If you ever wanted to find yourself then you are not alone. Read this very issue in "Touchable Love, an Untraditional Love Story" where through all the ugly there can still be good. Also, that you will have friends throughout your life and then you will have true friends and you will know the difference. People always say to find your love you must first be friends. Sometime it is the new friends that you make as you get older that become the person you want to take a chance on the most. Was it like this for Christy? Was it because she saw how caring he was with his patient and saw how she needed to be cared for herself? This story is about healing, watching the healing being done, and being healed in the process. Becky Due creates another book for review and this time it calls to you from within. You will enjoy this soul searching story.

Touching, May 9, 2010 By www.bookshipper.blogspot.com/ "www.bookshippe... (Montreal, Quebec) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Touchable Love, An Untraditional Love Story (Paperback) Touchable Love is a beautiful and deep story of figuring out life and where we fit into it. This is unusual in a novel - but the author has managed to blend romance, self discovery, social issues of our time and self help into a wonderful storyline that has kept me interested and, more importantly, invested into the outcome.
From the beginning where we meet our main character who, let's face it, is trying to destroy herself through a variety of self loathing actions, to the slow but sure progression of a friendship that goes way beyond the "let's be friends" - the message in this story is clear - we get exactly what we need in life - and not always what we think we want.
Written with compassion, honesty and a little bit of humor, I found myself caring about each character, hoping that they would, in the end, find what it is they needed.
Growing is a never ending experience and, as this book, clearly shows, you never know when, where or who will be the messenger.
Wonderful, wonderful read.

An untraditional yet truly a real love story, April 8, 2009 By Reader Views "www.readerviews.com" (Austin, Texas) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Touchable Love, An Untraditional Love Story (Paperback) Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (4/09)
Christy has been living life in the fast lane. Her relationships consist of frequent one-night stands with no attachments. Married or not, it just doesn't matter. She also has had a history of bulimia, and self-mutilation. She doesn't seem to know who she really is, or have any sense of self-worth. Terrified of real love and not feeling that she deserves it, she does everything that she can to avoid it. When circumstances take her into the lives of two men, her love for them starts teaching her about having love for herself.
Christy has taken on the job of photographing Paul, a man who is dying of AIDS. Paul wants to publish a book to show the world what it is like to die from this disease. He lives with the guilt of knowing that he gave this dreaded disease to his lover who died from it. Christy finds herself falling in love with Paul in a platonic way. His nearing death frightens her because she can't picture not having him in her life. Never having had friends, he is one of the first in her life. Brian, Paul's nurse is also someone that has become dear to Christy. Christy has to realize that she is worthy of Brian's love and make a decision about having a real relationship with him.
"Touchable Love" is a wonderful story about a woman learning to love and value her self. The two men who enter her life help start her on her journey because they make her feel like she is worth it. The life experiences that Christy shares with us are heart wrenching. But she also shows us the value of finding true friendship and how healing it can be to one's soul.
I highly recommend this novel to women who need to learn to love and value themselves. It will show them how to take steps in the right direction so that they can learn how to heal. It would also be an excellent choice for a women's reader group because I think that it will definitely stimulate some fascinating discussions, especially by women who have escaped this cycle and can share what helped them. "Touchable Love" by Becky Due is really an interesting must-read for all.

A story teaching people to not hate ways of life because they are different, October 10, 2008 By Midwest Book Review (Oregon, WI USA) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Touchable Love, An Untraditional Love Story (Paperback) Is love something only limited to one man and one woman? Or is it further loosely defined? "Touchable Love: An Untraditional Love Story" is about Christy and her unusual, polyamorous, relationship with two men. With this unique relationship, she manages to clear up her past and learn to develop self-esteem and belief in herself. A story teaching people to not hate ways of life because they are different, "Touchable Love" is recommended as an original and entertaining romance.

An Unforgettable Story!, September 27, 2008 By Bettie Corbin Tucker (PA USA) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Touchable Love, An Untraditional Love Story (Paperback) I cried! This is an unusual way to begin a review; however, I quickly discovered that Touchable Love by Becky Due is a book that causes all types of emotions to surface. As a person who has done considerable counseling, I found this fictional love story to be intriguing, mesmerizing, and also one that can make a positive change in lives. It is a book written by a talented author for women who want to confront the past and embrace the future. The storyline is depicted with total honesty, and I personally found it to be inspiring.
The author refers to this book as "an untraditional love story," and this is true in every sense of the word as Christy, whose past sexual life has been destructive and dangerous, suddenly stops having sex because she fears becoming involved in a real relationship. She is afraid of loving and of being loved in return. Threatened by a taste of what it might feel like to have such a relationship, she quits a modeling job at an art studio and moves from Minnesota to Miami, Florida. Since Christy's real goal has been to pursue a career in photography, she accepts a job working for a famous photographer named Paul. Her assignment is to record, through photography, the experiences of this man as he is dying from AIDS. In return he promises to give her the benefit of his vast experience in the field, introduce her to people who will be of help to her future career, and leave her his equipment upon his death. But, unknown to either Christy or Paul, there proves to be fringe benefits that ultimately change Christy's life forever.
The beautiful young photographer grows to love Paul, though at first she had been shocked by the condition of his dying body. As time passes, he becomes more than an employer; he is someone whom she genuinely cares about--her first real friend--someone she loves. Paul, who is gay, does not want to extend his life through medication; instead he wants to leave the world and be with his deceased lover. But first he is determined that others will see his death through Christy's work so that they will make better choices than he did. He believes he is responsible for his partner's death.
Though Paul and Christy become inseparable, their loving friendship is not strong enough for him to change his mind about taking medication. Paul also has a close friend in Brian, a nurse, who helps with his homecare. Christy grows to appreciate Brian and all he does for Paul; he becomes a good friend and the three of them share some memorable times.
Christy often gets into bed with Paul, holding his frail body as he clings to her and life. One night he snuggles to get closer than ever, and they fall asleep holding one another tightly. The next morning she awakes and realizes that he has gone on to be with the love of his life; his former partner whom he had loved so deeply. Christy does not accept his death easily, moving into a studio apartment, and shutting herself down emotionally. She had finally learned to give and accept love--not in the traditional sense--but, nevertheless, Paul had taught her how to surrender her feelings and truly care about another human being. But he had left her, and her life seemed so very empty.
Christy slowly comes out of the darkness and uses her photography skills to address other types of diseases. She also discovers that she is talented in writing the stories of hurting women to encourage those in similar situations to find their way back from a desolate past and feel good about their lives. In reality, though her books are about others, they have everything to do with her. Eventually Brian comes back into her life and tells her how much he loves her. Though she also loves him, she has many issues to work out. She is concerned that, because of her previous lifestyle, there is the possibility that she could have AIDS. Also, she realizes that she needs time to get to know herself before making a true commitment to another person. A therapist named Mary assists her with a formula that, in my opinion, will help all women readers face their pasts and fears.
Is Christy HIV positive? Does she allow herself to make a life with Brian? I have only given you a glimpse of an incredible and descriptive story. I highly recommend that women purchase this unforgettable book for themselves and a friend. It is definitely a "must read."

A Love Story for all Seasons, July 21, 2008 By L.S. Cauldwell "Lillian" (Ann Arbor, MI) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Touchable Love, An Untraditional Love Story (Paperback) "Touchable Love" isn't your average romance love story. It's not about boy meets girl. Boy and girl fall in love. Boy and girl get married. They have children and Live happily ever after. Nope. If that's what you want, then "Touchable Love" isn't the right book for you.
However, if you're searching for a new kind of romance novel and one that tugs not only at your heart strings, but your intellect, then I recommend "Touchable Love" highly. The plot begins with a former model accepting an intern position with a homosexual dying from AIDS. He just lost his partner, and was lost without him.
Before he dies, though, he helps heal the former model with his compassion, understanding, and a gift of photography. The former model learns more about love from this one man than through a lifetime of experiences. In the end, she cleans up her act: goes to a counselor, doesn't jump into bed with the guy who's in love with her, and learns to accept who she is.
"Touchable Love" is really about a girl who meets two boys. She falls in love with both of them, except one love dies and the other love waits for her to come to terms with herself first. I recommend this book be used in schools as young as junior high and as old as college. There's much here to discuss about the roles of men and women in our society and culture. "Touchable Love" isn't a book to be read all at once. It must be savor like a fine wine or chocolate.

The Gentlemen's Club
Homeless and alone, Angie is taking a close look at her life. Her aspirations to be a writer are being pushed aside as she simply tries to survive in a difficult situation. But when she meets the vivacious Julie, she starts to open up and explore the path that has led her to this place, and begins the fight to escape her predicament. "The Gentlemen's Club" is the story of a woman's growth into a powerful and outspoken advocate for her gender. Told from the perspective of a young struggling write, the story relates how the oppression and fear inflicted by men upon Angie and her friends has eaten away at their self-esteem and self-respect. Eventually, Angie finds her inner strength again with the help of a close friend, and together they work towards guiding other women to the same achievement. Ultimately, Angie researches an article about the Gentlemen's Club, a prominent stripper's bar, and she and Julie set about freeing the women who work there from the histories that have kept them oppressed, cumulating in a powerful act of revenge. Becky Due is a very talented and intelligent writer. While her personal stance is ever-present in the novel, the individuality of each character comes across clearly and intensely. She has a strong message to deliver, and successfully does so with full and effective force. Her empathy with the plight of women is conveyed with great heart and passion, and she fills the characters' lives with enough trials and tribulations to make their present difficult situations believable and understandable. The author is a longtime advocate for women's issues, and volunteers with Victims Services and as a guest speaker. She is educated in both Journalism and Women's Studies. A percentage of the profits from the sale of this book go to `Alternatives to Violence.' With a very decidedly feminist perspective, this book offers a great deal for woman in the way of self-understanding and self-realization. It is a very valuable addition to the increasing mass of feminist literature. Reviewer: Nancy Morris, Allbooks Reviews
~~~~~
The Gentlemen's Club After years of abuse a young woman takes back her life. Homeless, living in her car after a tortuous marriage to a manipulative and abusive husband, Angie is desperate to turn her life around. With help from shelters and a financial counselor, she gains control over her debt, finds a job, an apartment and a sense of self worth. She even makes a friend, Julie, a self-reliant young musician whose emotional support allows Angie to sift through her difficult past. On a cross-country trip they take together Angie experiences a flood of memories—flashes of early abuse, her mother wilting under pressure from men—and her frustration mounts as she recognizes that her self-esteem issues and suffering have been the compounded result of poor treatment by men. Julie encourages Angie to work out her experiences through writing and, after attending classes at a community college, Angie snags a job at a local newspaper for women’s issues. As she interviews women—from a housewife whose husband, a doctor, forced her to have a hysterectomy then left her for a younger woman to a group of strippers at a local gentlemen’s club—Angie discovers that she is not alone. As each young woman reveals her history, it becomes clear that abuse is congenital, their mothers, grandmothers and sisters having also suffered at the hands of men. While Angie’s journey is generally inspiring— at heart it is an issue book with a powerful message—it is also a compendium of horror stories, each darker than the next. The sheer volume of trauma underscores the author’s intent to reveal the breadth of discrimination suffered by women. There is little humor to break up the darkness and the characters are deeply troubled, but Angie’s story has redemption at its core. Achingly sincere, angry and socially minded.
THE GENTLEMEN’S CLUB: A Story for All Women Kirkus Discoveries, Nielsen Business Media, 770 Broadway, New York, NY 10003
~~~~~
Review by: Zénó Vernyik
The black front cover of this average-sized book is dominated by a strange drawing of white, grey and red, but predominantly the first of these colors. It features a strangely telling composition: a woman nailed to a man, as if she were crucified. Shocking as it may seem to some, or even sacrilegious, part of the reason behind its powerfulness is the reference to one of the primary myths of Christianity: the act of self-sacrifice. In this picture, it is a woman who is crucified, or rather Woman, as such. The cross, at the same time, becomes exchanged for Man, that is, it is no longer a symbol of the axis mundi, the World Tree, on which she is crucified, but Man. Women are suffering by and for men; they are crucified on, by, but also for them. Another crucial point can be that Man who stands in for the crucifix is just as powerless as Woman. This is exemplified by the fact that neither one of the two figures is veiled. Our savior, here, is exposed and powerless, but the case of the living crucifix is not much better. Neither one of the two figures is in the position to cover himself/herself . The only way they could perform that action would be made possible if, and only if, the crucifix stopped being a crucifix, and permitted movement for her. The bonding function of the nail also works in both ways: Man is just as inseparably bound to Woman, as it is true the other way around. Furthermore, the calm and peaceful facial expression also suggests an air of comfort and happiness, something that can be or should be achieved through the unity of man and woman that this visual metaphor may also skillfully represent. This complex icon that the book features tells much of what this book sets as its goal: a thorough, painful and direct analysis of all the possible kinds of relationships that are existing in contemporary bourgeois society. The handling of the topic is similar to the treatment of an ulcer by the surgeon: precise, uncompromising and cutting right to the hidden core. And the expertise of the venture is no less professional than the means. This text is visibly and evidently informed both by personal experiences and recollections, and thorough sociological research in the subject matter. What is this book then? A testimony, an analysis, a therapeutic vehicle. But also, first and foremost, a story, and a very good one at it. The storyline is captivating, the text practically reads itself. Basically, it is impossible to put this book down. Those who found Alexandra's Project by Rolf de Heer too didactic, might find this one, just as well over didactic, but let me make clear I am not one of those people, and I found their position fundamentally mistaken. There are issues that must be tackled openly, honestly and bravely, and directly. Just that, does not make a venture didactical, or even worse, political propaganda. Text (book) or subject (person), one cannot leave her ideological capitation behind, and should not attempt to behave as if it were so. What makes this venture particularly honest and successful is its acceptance of its ideological position and its self-criticism. Needless to say, this is definitely not a book for those who wish to find a decorous escape from reality. There is no idealization or compromise in its portrayal of what forms a man-woman "relationship" can take. Be prepared: this book is about rape, both statutory and not, it is about prostitution and about violence both in the family and outside of it. There is suicide and murder, suffering and torture. But for those willing to take this journey, it is definitely worth it: it is empowering and gives a lot of hope. I am not saying that this work is perfect and faultless. There is no such work, of course. Mainly in the second part of the book, it tends to overuse the rather simplistic formula of "Rebecca asked," "I said," or "Julie added." Dialog becomes a bit mechanical and unnatural because of this. Also, the ghost of compulsory heterosexuality seems to linger among the lines and perhaps also a slight hint of hostility towards others, but it seems to be a minor issue compared to the book's enormous achievements. This book is a must-read for those who read and enjoyed Dawn Lyons' The Dry Well, as well as for anyone who is willing to take the troubling journey into the lives of many women who were raped, forced into prostitution or tortured in any other way. It is also a book for those who like powerful storytelling and vivid descriptions, and do not get scared by some "extra message." A percentage of the book's profits will be used to support the cause of the prevention of domestic violence and sexual assaults.
~~~~~
"The Gentlemen's Club had me laughing and crying, occasionally at the same time. This book made me think about the future of my daughters. There are so many issues in this book that need to be addressed. One is abuse; it is common, it can occur anywhere. The girls of today need to be protected, physically and emotionally. They need to be talked to and heard. We need to keep them on the right path, or too many of them will become a character in this novel. As the author says, women are strong and amazing and we need to support each other. We all need to read 'The Gentlemen's Club'." Cindy Snell
~~~~~
"In thirty words or less, "Wow!" Everything about it, the colors, the cover says read me...I could not put the book down. Your book has changed my life. I was 48 before I was exposed to the concept that we women should be taking care of each other." Cara Gerstenberger
~~~~~
"It is AWESOME" Shelly Golemon
~~~~~
"The Gentlemen's Club is a great read. This book is educational, uplifting and inspiring. It changed the way I view myself and the way I parent my children." H. Bassett
~~~~~
"You have written a very, very good book - excellent in fact. I had trouble putting it down and kept thinking about it when I wasn't able to get back to it. It really flows well and you have brought forth lots of issues for women and men." M. Amundsen
~~~~~
"Your book is really powerful with so many messages for women and men. It takes a lot of courage and honesty to write a book like this, and Angie's experiences and rage have been channeled into a story that can make a difference. It is very well done, and just as gripping as any best seller I've ever read. Congratulations!" Judy Seward
~~~~~
"I found this beautifully written book inspiring. It touched my life to be able to relate to a lot of issues in this story. The author has a true gift and ability to reach out and touch the lives of many women nationwide. A must read for every woman!" Angie Saxton
~~~~~
"Thank you very much for sharing your book with me. I have read it and am very much affected by it. I will be promoting it in my travels...I admire you for your good work!!" Bill Nelson
~~~~~
"I sat down at quarter to four yesterday and finished the book this morning at quarter to one. It is very good. I'm ready to read your next book." Judy Preston
~~~~~
"I became enrapt in the story, and by the end I was amazed by the powerful finish...I respect what you are doing, and you are one talented writer... I fell your book may be a top seller and would make a wonderful movie." B. Zander
~~~~~

Wow, where do I even begin.... Thank you so much for the package! It was so cute and all I could do was smile. With the candle and the rose pedals, so touching! And your book.... wow, it's amazing! You are a very strong, powerful women! I have about 50 pages left that I look forward to finishing today. It's hard for me to put it down. Thanks again for everything!!! I had started reading The Gentleman's Club when you first sent it to me and got about half way through and got away from reading for awhile...well I started reading it again and I LOVE IT!!!! I will need to get a copy of the others as well.
~~~~~
You are a life saver and God bless you. Just wanted to let you know I never read a book in my life and I am reading yours thinking wow and this women is helping me?
~~~~~
I would like to tell you both of your books would make great movies.
~~~~~
Dear Becky, I gotta tell ya!!! I had a lot on my plate when u 1st sent me your book "The Gentlemen's Club" I am finally reading it now. I must have your other books. I can't download an eBook. Where or how else can I get your books? This one I hate to put down and reading slow because I do not want it to end LOL I am into it. You are a great author. I have the bird book for children also. So talented you are!! Let me know about the books please. I am out of work right now so may have to wait a while to get them. All I know is if you wrote them they have to be good!! Thanks for sharing your talent with me, Becky!!!
~~~~~

The Gentlemen’s Club by Becky Due is an inspiring and powerful memoir that should touch the heart of all women. There will always be people who think that abuse, rape, and being homeless are what a woman deserves. What this author tells us is that she ended up this way because she didn't know how to change her life. When she hit rock bottom, she went for help and the right person was there to help her. With new found courage she got a job which enabled her to meet some very special women who became close friends. By example and encouragement she was able to show these women that they were in charge of their lives. Most importantly she has shown that we women need each other. This book should be in the reception room of every doctor’s office and Crisis Center in the United States. I will gladly recommend it to my friends. Andra Tracy Out Word Bound Bookstore Indianapolis, IN
~~~~~

Good and Bad, May 27, 2010 By Firstimemom85 - See all my reviews
This review is from: The Gentlemen's Club: A Story for All Women (Paperback) I have mixed feelings about this book. While I thought the clarity and acknowledgment of women's abuse was needed and well written, I was extremely upset by the bashing of religion chapter and the scene with the guns. This book brought up many serious, hard questions but didn't offer a whole lot of answers. I was very grateful for the characters of the bus driver and Trayn as an example of "good" men and I wish there had been more characters like this towards the end of the book. I think the biggest problem I had with this book was the skewed perceptive. While I understand that the main character has this justified hatred of men, I was hoping for more of an epiphany when she looked around during the gun scene and couldn't tell the difference between the men and women. While men can be evil and cruel, women are capable of the same evil - there were women Nazi's in the German concentration camps that performed the same, perhaps worse atrocities against humanity as the men there. In the end, I think this book is worth the read, but it shouldn't be read blindly. In other words, this book is a beginning - it asks many questions, but doesn't provide the answers to all of them. Still, the characters are unique and real, my heart went out to them for the pain they suffered, and made me more aware of the suffering currently happening around me.

Inspiring and Giving Hope, May 26, 2010 By Elizabeth Pou "Book Lover" - See all my reviews
This review is from: The Gentlemen's Club: A Story for All Women (Paperback)
This is a book that deal with real world issues and geared toward women. Angie is one of the main characters in the book. Life has not always been good for Angie but she keeps hope that life will improve. The book deals with a lot of issues that women face in society. Some of the issues discussed in the book are molestation, rape, incest, sexual harassment and domestic violence.
Some parts of the book are very raw to make the reader understand the reality of a subject. As well as, the book is very inspiring and leaves the reader rooting for the character to succeed. It's important to realize that as women we are in control of our future.

An Important Message, May 24, 2010 By Pat M "Pat's Review" (Raleigh, NC) - See all my reviews
This review is from: The Gentlemen's Club: A Story for All Women (Paperback) Eveyone should read this book, but especially women. It is such a powerful story that really touches your heart. Angie, the main character, is such an amazing woman. For years, men have abused her. She has been through more than most people can even imagine and is now left homeless and really in a bad place emotionally. Most people would give up. Not Angie!! She decides that she will not be a second class citizen, she will not let her circomstances define her. Her struggle back is hard but she keeps going and even more admirable, finds other women like herself, and encourages and inspires them. You will really be impressed by this woman. I encourage you to not only read it but share it with other wonmen in your life.

Great book for teaching young women, May 22, 2010 By Jessie R. - See all my reviews
This review is from: The Gentlemen's Club: A Story for All Women (Paperback) "Gentlemen's Club" by Becky Due is a coming of age story about a woman who figures out what is important to her, despite very difficult situations. As she lives she meets other women who have also had a tough life and have managed to turn themselves around. I found this book uplifting to the struggles women face and would recommend it.

Powerful stories., May 21, 2010 By Lonna H. (Chesapeake, Va) - See all my reviews
This review is from: The Gentlemen's Club: A Story for All Women (Paperback) Angie had plans for her life; however, those plans have not come to light. Homeless and living in her car, she begins to take stock of her life and identify the steps that have led her current situation. Ever hopeful, she knows that her life will turn around. While on her journey, she meets many other women who have suffered similar abuse at the hands of men. In the end, she is able to overcome her past and becomes an advocate for women in less than favorable situations. I would recommend this book to every woman.

A Powerful Example, May 20, 2010 By Jack Rella - See all my reviews
This review is from: The Gentlemen's Club: A Story for All Women (Paperback) The Gentlemen's Club: A Story for All Women by Becky Due tells the story of Angie. It is a violent and ugly story as Angie confronts her own experiences of sexual abuse and the experiences of other women. As Angie examines her own life she develops the hope and determination that she will have a better life in the future. She will not let the degradation she has suffered at the hands of men control her life or her opinions. Angie's strength and example ultimately give hope to the women she encounters and she is able to teach them not to succumb to self-loathing and self-defeat.
Angie's heroism and self-awareness provide an excellent role model for women and young girls in our society. This story should be assigned reading in every middle school and high school for girls and boys. Although it is violent and graphic, it also is an anthem to the virtue of following one's individual conscience and not accepting negative self-images presented by other people.

For All of Us, May 20, 2010 By M. Brown - See all my reviews
This review is from: The Gentlemen's Club: A Story for All Women (Paperback) The Gentlemen's Club: A Story for All Women by Becky Due is an amazing book. I want every woman, girl, mother, or daughter to read this book. It tells about the life of Angie, a homeless woman whose experience with various forms of sexual abuse is mirrored by the life stories of the women she encounters. It is also a story of triumph as Angie and her friend Julie do not accept the conditions of fear and self-hate that afflict so many of the women in this novel. Angie and Julie teach the other women in the book to be proud and strong and to not accept a second class status.
Though this book is a story about women and the abuse suffered by them at the hands of men, it is a story that is valuable for men and boys to read. If men and boys read this story, it would act as a wake up call for them to think about their actions.

An Inspiring Story, May 12, 2010 By Jennifer S (Ball Ground, GA United States) - See all my reviews
This review is from: The Gentlemen's Club: A Story for All Women (Paperback) The Gentlemen's Club: A Story for All Women is a strong, inspiring book written by Becky Due. I could not put it down. The author is a truly amazing writer who creates such powerful imagery. The story is about a woman named Angie who has so much against her but she still manages to keep a positive attitude and eventually overcome her past. This isn't just a feel good story about success. Due has added so many elements that are realy important for all women to read about. As women, we need to stick together, help one another and this is one of the lessons this book emphasizes. There are so many more. You will learn so much and though you may not initially relate to Angie, so much of her is issues faced by all women. Some of the problems you will encounter reading this book are disturbing and upsetting but I think they are written well and add to the story. You will most likely cry a few tears before finishing this book but you will also smile big and laugh too. This is a great book and would be fun to read with a group of women friends.

Deep Interesting Book, May 12, 2010 By Louise Kennedy "Internet shopper" (Lake Worth, Fl United States) - See all my reviews
This review is from: The Gentlemen's Club: A Story for All Women (Paperback) "The Gentlemen's Club: A Story for All Women" by Becky Due is a powerful memoir of Angie. Angie is a very strong person with a job who finds herself in a homeless situation. Although living in her car, she does not give up and does not want charity from anyone. She does not want to be a victim. This story explores sexual harassment, rape, spousal abuse and child molestation. This book will pull at your heart strings. You will laugh and cry. This could be the story of many women no matter the age. If you are in such a situation, this story could inspire you to be strong and not give up. Worth the read.

Down and Out but Finds a Way Up, May 10, 2010 By M. Stanhope "Defining normal..." (Chesapeake, VA) - See all my reviews
This review is from: The Gentlemen's Club: A Story for All Women (Paperback) Becky Due writes a self-help guide through Angie a character in "The Gentlemen's club" as a homeless woman. It goes into the stories of several women who have had a history of the abuse, including the child molestation, rape, and harassment. In the end it shows you how Angie was able to change her life around and save herself. This is a book that could shared in conversation in a young women's group as a way to show them it doesn't have to be this way and if you are in this situation there are ways to get help and ways to get out. It also addresses how emotional abuse is sometimes as strong as physical abuse. This book shows success from the bottom up and how it can be achieved with some help and self esteem. This is a good read and one that addresses strong issues that women are still faced with today. So, if you know of someone that needs the help or needs to find a way out you may want to point them in the direction of this book if you don't provide them a copy. Let them know that there is hope and steps to gain in rebuilding yourself.

Strong and Hopeful, May 10, 2010 By J. Cormier (New England) - See all my reviews
This review is from: The Gentlemen's Club: A Story for All Women (Paperback) When you think of the title "The Gentlemen's Club" and in the past what it could have meant you are totally right. This is a book about women and abuse. It is about being exploited as a woman and then how woman along the way when their stories are told are so similar. You will read about the abuse, the molestation, the rape and the reasons why the women felt they had no choice in the matter. It is also about Angie a homeless woman who can't understand really how she got that way in the beginning. It was only suppose to be a temporary thing and only for a night, which turned into weeks, then months. Credit goes to the author for writing about some strong content and still being able to show a lesson to be learned and the ways one can strive to improve. One still has to believe in themselves and they have to dig deep inside to find it before they can help themselves. Angie as low as she was did find a way up and the road was hard but worth the fight to save her own life. Becky Due is becoming known as the "self-help" author for women.

Inspiring, May 9, 2010 By www.bookshipper.blogspot.com/ "www.bookshippe... (Montreal, Quebec) - See all my reviews
This review is from: The Gentlemen's Club: A Story for All Women (Paperback) The Gentlemen's Club is a book that is about two things - empowerment and hope. I also think it is about inspiring - each and every women to take ownership of herself, her body, her emotions and the direction in her life.
This touching and deeply felt memoir was the kind that I truly love to read - making me feel happy, sad, disgusted with humans, all the while finding that redemption is possible. While one human being can make it all horrible, the counter balance is another human being that makes it okay and allright. This book is the perfect example of this.
The author has courage, faith and a deep belief in herself and other human beings, which is more than I can say, at times and I have never had to experience half of what she has.
This book is written by a woman, for women everywhere. Inspiring and deeply moving.

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful: Compelling and much important truth, May 21, 2006 By Reader Views "www.readerviews.com" (Austin, Texas) - See all my reviews
This review is from: The Gentlemen's Club: A Story for All Women (Paperback) Reviewed by Lorraine Robins for Reader Views (5/06)
This book takes us into the life of Angie. She starts out as a homeless person. Living in her car, she hopes for a better life. Angie does not pity herself or even seem to be depressed. She is a strong woman who knows her life will get better.
We follow Angie's journeys, past and present. During this time, the author explores many women's issues. There are many difficult experiences that Angie has gone through. In addition, she talks and interacts with many women who have their own difficulties. These issues include sexual harassment in varying degrees. The sexual harassment ranges from inappropriate comments to inappropriate touching (criminal sexual conduct). The book also explores rape, child molestation, spousal abuse and incest.
"The Gentlemen's Club" is well written. I found the book very compelling. I think it is a book for women. However, I believe it should be noted that this book is not for the faint hearted. It contains extremely graphic language, strong sexual content and references, as well as disturbing violence. A person who has been through abuse, for example, may be disturbed by the explicit nature of this book.
Although the book is fiction, I sadly believe there is a lot of truth in it. I could relate to some of the sexual harassment (having experienced it myself). Luckily, that's all I have experienced. But I certainly have talked to many women over the years who have endured many of the abuses that took place in the book. I believe this is an important book for women to read.
I think it's important to note that the author also focuses on the strength of women. That we are able to overcome tragedies from our past. That we, like Angie, are strong enough pull ourselves out of a bad situation and thrive.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful: Allbooks Review - Fiction Feature of the Month, March 31, 2006 This review is from: The Gentlemen's Club: A Story for All Women (Paperback) Homeless and alone, Angie is taking a close look at her life. Her aspirations to be a writer are being pushed aside as she simply tries to survive in a difficult situation. But when she meets the vivacious Julie, she starts to open up and explore the path that has led her to this place, and begins the fight to escape her predicament.
"The Gentlemen's Club" is the story of a woman's growth into a powerful and outspoken advocate for her gender. Told from the perspective of a young struggling write, the story relates how the oppression and fear inflicted by men upon Angie and her friends has eaten away at their self-esteem and self-respect. Eventually, Angie finds her inner strength again with the help of a close friend, and together they work towards guiding other women to the same achievement. Ultimately, Angie researches an article about the Gentlemen's Club, a prominent stripper's bar, and she and Julie set about freeing the women who work there from the histories that have kept them oppressed, cumulating in a powerful act of revenge.
Becky Due is a very talented and intelligent writer. While her personal stance is ever-present in the novel, the individuality of each character comes across clearly and intensely. She has a strong message to deliver, and successfully does so with full and effective force. Her empathy with the plight of women is conveyed with great heart and passion, and she fills the characters' lives with enough trials and tribulations to make their present difficult situations believable and understandable.
The author is a longtime advocate for women's issues, and volunteers with Victims Services and as a guest speaker. She is educated in both Journalism and Women's Studies. A percentage of the profits from the sale of this book go to `Alternatives to Violence.'
With a very decidedly feminist perspective, this book offers a great deal for woman in the way of self-understanding and self-realization. It is a very valuable addition to the increasing mass of feminist literature.
Reviewer: Nancy Morris, Allbooks Reviews

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful: e Gentlemens Club : A Story for All Women, July 1, 2005 This review is from: The Gentlemen's Club: A Story for All Women (Paperback) A fictional account of women, abuse and the men who cause it, the Gentlemen's Club, is chock full of emotion and unfortunately the reality of many women. Follow Angie as she tries to change her life and the life of other women. Although the book deals with the lives of strippers at strip club, many of the events, the lives, the sorrow is so real that many can relate and just hope and pray that our daughters, our friends never enter this life style. Becky due has written a complete novel and we will hopefully see more from this author.

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful: A MUST READ FOR ALL WOMEN & OLDER TEENS, May 1, 2005 This review is from: The Gentlemen's Club: A Story for All Women (Paperback) "The Gentlemen's Club had me laughing and crying, occasionally at the same time. This book made me think about the future of my daughters. There are so many issues in this book that need to be addressed. One is abuse; it is common, it can occur anywhere. The girls of today need to be protected, physically and emotionally. They need to be talked to and heard. We need to keep them on the right path, or too many of them will become a character in this novel. As the author says, women are strong and amazing and we need to support each other. We all need to read 'The Gentlemen's Club."

Lessons for all

Reviewed by Cathy Yanda for Reader Views (06/06) "Blue the Bird on Flying" is a wonderful book for beginning readers or for parents to read aloud to younger children. Blue the Bird does not want to fly. When he is young, he can fly on the backs of his friends but later they want to fly with other friends. When Blue the Bird decides to jump on the back to make a new friend, the young bird starts to fall. Blue the Bird realizes his new friend is too young to carry him. Instinctively, Blue the Bird spreads his wings and flies the young bird to safety. Craig Van Wechel beautifully illustrates a lesson in independence and self-esteem for all. The vibrant colors of the pictures will draw any young child into the story and have them coming back for more. It is my hope the author and illustrator collaborate on another book in the near future. While only 38 pages, this precious story will be read and re-read for years by you and your children. The author, Becky Due, is donating a percentage of book sales to Children of the Night, a non-profit, tax-exempt organization dedicated to assisting children who are forced into prostitution.

~~~~~
Daughter loves Blue!

My 6 year old is learning to read this year and she really enjoyed reading along with me. First I read the book to her and then she read it to me. She said, "I liked it when Blue learned how to fly, he was afraid and didn't know he could do it all by himself - but he could!". She also enjoyed going back through the book and identifying the colors and shapes on each page. Blue the Bird is also a great reminder to us adults that we can trust and rely on ourselves to succeed in life.