Caught by the Past
A Novella
By Marvin Reid

       At the onset of this book, it appears to be (excuse the term) a "trashy novel." It opens with a beautiful young woman, who calls herself "Raina," dancing in a strip club. She is being ogled by a professional-appearing man, who has been observing her for some time.

     By the end of the evening, she accompanies him to his apartment. However, that is where the story takes a sharp turn to the right.

     While they make mad, passionate love, there is a depth in the relationship which carries throughout the entire book. Raina's real name is Sara Pettigrew, and she is dancing her way through law school. As you discover the heartaches of her past life, you soon find yourself surprisingly not pitying her, but admiring the strength she shows to overcome her past.

     At the same time, the warmth and support her "gentleman" friend (with whom she decides to live) gives every woman hope for this kind of a support system. He not only encourages her to finish her education, but also stands firmly behind her as she builds a very successful career as a lawyer, and eventually to becoming a judge.

     And this is when everything hits the fan. A face out of her past emerges, threatening to destroy everything she has worked so hard to do. It is at this point that Sara really shines. She puts a plan into motion to thwart her enemy's attempts and comes out smelling like a rose.

     What began as a very questionable book turned into one of the best books I have read in years. In fact, I don't think I have read such a terrific tale of "true redemption" since I read the Bible.

     This is a don't miss read, and I can't wait to see what Marvin Reid will come up with next.