Sugah & Spice Book Review

By: Arlexia James

~The privilege of a lifetime is being who you really are.~
Joseph Campbell

This quote is the preface and the overall theme that is underlying in the book. In her second book, Keke Chanel introduces us to characters who are all living double lives. Much like the main character Deminis in her first book, "Deadly in Stilettos," Sugah Payne is young, beautiful, intelligent, and doesn't take any crap from anyone. She is confident, yet life has dealt her her fair share of heartbreaks. Immediately before starting college, Sugah meets a group of girls at Saks where she was currently working to save money. The girls seemed so mature, poised, and more importantly wealthy. They give Sugah a business card and an invitation to become one of them. While Sugah was certainly intrigued, her intuition told her that something about them wasn't right. However, when the reality of her bleak finances hit her during her first semester in undergrad, Sugah allows reason and instinct to fly out the window. The love and need for money will have people do some crazy things. However said that money changes people had Sugah in mind when her alter ego "Spice" is awakened.

While reading this book, I immediately started to compare Keke Chanel to Eric Jerome Dickey. When the book introduced readers to the exclusive organization that Sugah was invited to be apart of, I initially thought of EJD's "Thieves Paradise." It seemed that everyone in the book had some type of back story that involved poverty or misfortune which fueled there need to pursue financial security at any cost. I also found myself calling Mrs. Chanel the female EJD because of her uncanny ability to link her characters together. She first showcased this trait in "Deadly in Stilettos," but now I know that she is a master of this craft. Just when I think I have one relationship amongst characters, a new twist is revealed.

I loved that the book also showcased her ability to add some sex and sex appeal to the book. The way she described those intimate moments among the characters had me wishing I was there. I also liked that she showed the characters true vulnerability which usually revolved around some aspect of sex with the opposite sex.

Finally, I found myself laughing at the fact that she inserted herself in the book a few times as well. This really allowed me to get to know the author on a more personal level. As a reader, we get to see what her likes and passions lie.

As I close, I would like to see Chanel elaborate more on what the organization really is about in her next book. Is it corrupt or legit? In any case, I am looking forward to the next installment. I encourage everyone to pick this up. It is a must read!!!