If I Can’t Have You by Mary B. Morrison
Reviewed by S. Barnes: If I Can’t Have You by Mary B. Morrison, an African American fiction novel, worth four stars. The writer delivered a powerful read that not only educates the reader but keeps the reader laughing and wishing for more.
If I Can’t Have You by Mary B. Morrison was a tantalizing read that leaves the reader begging for more. The leading characters of the book were three friends Madison, Loretta, and Tisha who were searching for love in the state where everything is bigger. Madison is a feisty DIVA who thinks she can tame any man which leads to a bet that will change everyone’s life dramatically. Madison is currently engaged to a man named Chicago, an arrangement that his entire family has something to say about. Loretta is sweet woman still stuck in the past but hoping for a better future. Tisha is a hard-working mother who is married to a lazy man named Darryl. I almost felt like I knew each woman individually. My favorite character was Loretta although she had her own personal issues and a baby daddy to boot, I could see her desire to become a better woman.
I enjoyed reading this book and completed the book in two days. The book reminded me of my relationships with some of my own friends although I did not see myself in any of the women, I have a few friends whose names could be used interchangeably with Madison, Tisha and Loretta in this book. I loved how the author kept the reader laughing and smiling, and even cursing throughout the entire book.
The book focuses on how obsession and betting with friends can go wrong and you have to be careful what you wish for, cause it just may come true. If I Can’t have You focused on real live situations and what can happen when you play with a persons’ heart. Madison was a true DIVA who learned some major life lessons in this this book about being honest to yourself and others. There is a scene in the book where Madison talks about a concoction she created to keep herself “sweet”, I must admit I would like to create that concoction for myself and try it out.
My favorite scene in the book was Loretta and Chaz’s (Chicago’s brother) first date. I love a direct and confident man and Chaz was exactly that. I could almost see myself in that scene in the restaurant dining with Chaz and talking with him about my own life. I did not like Madison’s father, his constant need to have power over people was really annoying.
Each scene in this story was full of twists and surprises that I don’t want to give away, but I will say be prepared read this book in one or two sittings. Yes, it's that much of a page turner. There are some secrets that come out in the book that will shock the reader and have the reader begging for more. I enjoyed how to writer did not try to put on airs and created scenes and situations that the reader could easily relate to. The book was very touching and honest and forced the reader to think outside the box about everyday life issues such as relationships, religion, and health.
I recommend this book to any reader who enjoys a novel that focuses on real life and not the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. This book makes you look and your own life and think about personal changes you can make to become a better you. This book would make a great book club read or a birthday gift for a friend, sister, cousin or mother. Although this was my first book by Mary B. Morrison I am looking forward to reading many more by this author.
"Reviewed for the Sankofa Literary Society. Book provided by the author or the publisher for review purposes."
