Nappily Ever After by Trisha R. Thomas

Rating:   PENS!!!!
 

Hair & Men

Hair & Men.  To read this book, one would think that hair and men are the two most valuable commodities in a Black woman's life. 

Nappily Ever After is the story of Venus Johnston, a professional black woman, who starts off the book with a faltering and relationship and a new haircut.  Venus and her live-in boyfriend of 4 years, Clint have had a parting of ways.  After practically supporting Clint through medical school and his residency, Venus is ready to get married, and Clint will not pop the question.  So, she throws him out of her beautiful home and goes and cuts all of her long relaxed hair off.  While enjoying a night out with the boys shortly after their break-up, Clint meets Kandi, an attractive teacher with long-flowing hair and flawless good looks. Kandi, is looking to marry a good, black man, and finds that Clint is the answer to her prayers. Kandi poses and preens and does whatever she can to catch and hold onto Clint. 

From there, the story unravels into an unbelievable mess.  There are several plot devices that seem very contrived, as though the author was trying to add drama to boring and predictable book.  In the end, the story comes together very neatly, with all the characters getting what they want and living happily ever after.  But, you just don't understand or believe how they got there.  What could have been a very uplifting and well-told story about a woman finding liberation and joy in her new natural self, is merely another story of how hair, a man, and a little bit of status are the central themes in a Black woman's life.

Tameshia

R.E.A.L. Reviewers

     Back to Mainstream                                                 Back to Our Reviews