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Beautiful Ugly
Envy, Layla, and Kacie, three thirty-year-old women, each with their own set of problems, situations, and secrets, share a friendship bound together by their need for each other. One by one, they each try to play with the deck life deals them. After all, the alternative to living is dying, and who wants to go down that pathway? There is too much zest in living for them, too many things to see, places to go, and an endless list of mistakes yet to be made. Layla fights the battle with obesity, but her melodious voice can soothe the savage beast, but who can soothe her desire for love? Envy is her backbone and is one of the few people in her life who doesn’t beat up on her about being overweight.Kacie has cerebral palsy, six children, and five baby daddies, but never a husband. She prays that Deacon will be the perfect man to love and care for her and her children.Envy has her own secrets she refuses to share, not even with Layla and Kacie. When life begins to change for each of these ladies, will their friendships hold up? When good things happen can it cause bad reactions? Can a good man bring you down? Can a bad man bring you up? Can friendship last in the midst of joy and pain? Through it all, the three of them cling to each other – but the circumstances they face in life will hopefully teach them how to cling to God.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2009
27 people are currently reading
120 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
September 28, 2009
Shelia did a beautiful job on "My Son's Wife" and oh how I loved it. Now reading, "Beautiful Ugly" has taken me to another level, which is another heartrending drama with some inspirational insights to keep these three female (sistahs) going and facing their insecurities. We can relate to one or all these sisters (Envy Wilson; Layla Hobbs, and Kacie Mayweather).
Envy Wilson cannot understand why her mother would name her "Envy" and being the dark-skin sister of the group, that finds love through all the wrong men. She also carries a deep dark secret that eventually will come to the light. She delivers her cold-cut-throat words to her friends, but gets them lashed back at her from Kacie. Although she does not have any kids that anyone sees or knows of, Kacie knows that she sleeps with many men to find love too. However, Kacie, is on the same bandwagon as Envy, except she has six kids to show for and working on baby number seven, believing this time it will be different. She is seeking for love due to her disability and believes that one day she will attract the right man, but she needs to build up her love for God and herself. Then, there is Layla, who is the overweight sistah in the house (Heavy D song is ringing in my head). She has a distraught and violent brother (who she dated in the past) on her hands. She overcomes this tragic incident and possibly finds new love!
I love most about this book is that we are faced with either disabilities, obscurities, insecurities, do not like what God has given us (beauty-wise), or not loving ourselves therefore how can we love anyone else. Shelia Lipsey gets a humanity award for putting out a well-needed book, to see we can face these obscurities and see the love that God has for us (and our friends/family). We were fearfully and wonderfully made. Again, this book has gave me a warm-oozy feeling inside, but not the roller-coaster of emotions with her previous book, "My Son's Wife" and cannot wait for the anticipated sequel in September 2010.
Envy Wilson cannot understand why her mother would name her "Envy" and being the dark-skin sister of the group, that finds love through all the wrong men. She also carries a deep dark secret that eventually will come to the light. She delivers her cold-cut-throat words to her friends, but gets them lashed back at her from Kacie. Although she does not have any kids that anyone sees or knows of, Kacie knows that she sleeps with many men to find love too. However, Kacie, is on the same bandwagon as Envy, except she has six kids to show for and working on baby number seven, believing this time it will be different. She is seeking for love due to her disability and believes that one day she will attract the right man, but she needs to build up her love for God and herself. Then, there is Layla, who is the overweight sistah in the house (Heavy D song is ringing in my head). She has a distraught and violent brother (who she dated in the past) on her hands. She overcomes this tragic incident and possibly finds new love!
I love most about this book is that we are faced with either disabilities, obscurities, insecurities, do not like what God has given us (beauty-wise), or not loving ourselves therefore how can we love anyone else. Shelia Lipsey gets a humanity award for putting out a well-needed book, to see we can face these obscurities and see the love that God has for us (and our friends/family). We were fearfully and wonderfully made. Again, this book has gave me a warm-oozy feeling inside, but not the roller-coaster of emotions with her previous book, "My Son's Wife" and cannot wait for the anticipated sequel in September 2010.
March 6, 2016
Title: Beautiful Ugly
Author: Shelia E. Lipsey [Bell]
Publisher: S. E.L.
Series: Book 1
Reviewed By Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Beautiful Ugly" by Sheila E. Lipsey [Bell]
My Thoughts...
This was quite a interesting well written story about three friends...Envy, Layla and Kacie. Each one of these ladies have a different story that was well told in their own unique way. One of these ladies let's say had a lots of 'bedtime friends, another one with a wonderful voice but suffered from self esteem issues and a little on the heavy side and the last one who was born with cerebral palsy however, that didn't stop her...she had six children with another one on the way with no hubby! All three friends were battling some insecurities in one way or another. These three ladies argued and fussed a lot however they were always their for each other when the time was needed. This read was rather entertaining, as well as engaging being so full of its drama and twist and turns. I liked the Christian aspect of the read which was well done by this author. If you are looking for a story full about 'friendship, family drama and secrets then you have come to the right place. Why was it that it seems like every time these friends would get together or even talk on the phone they often got into such heated arguments? Was it because they did not seem to know the meaning of true love? However, Envy, Layla and Kacie always seemed to stick together in the good times and also the bad times. That was one of the reasons I loved about the novel.
The other characters in this story really helped make this read so very interesting...from Nikkei, Leonard, Deacon, Mrs. Rawlings and Dennis to name a few. To get the rest of this wonderfully believable told story you will have to pick up book 2 'True Beauty' to see what happens next for Layla, Kacie and Envy.
October 26, 2017
Forgiveness
God loves us know matter what we do. He is loving, kind and just. Relationship with Jesus is a must.
God loves us know matter what we do. He is loving, kind and just. Relationship with Jesus is a must.
January 22, 2018
Review
I enjoyed the storyline and I loved that the author did not sugar coat Christianity or the lives of these three women.
I enjoyed the storyline and I loved that the author did not sugar coat Christianity or the lives of these three women.
November 4, 2018
Secrets between friends, forever friendship, only with women.
January 10, 2019
Sometimes taking a look at ourselves can be hard but worth it! This book showed me how beautiful my flaws can be if I allow God to mend them! Spectacular read!
July 3, 2023
i'm not sure how accurate all the little plots were to real life, but it was still an enjoyable read.
September 30, 2009
"Beautiful Ugly" has taken me to another level, which is another heartrending drama with some inspirational insights to keep these three female (sistahs) going and facing their insecurities. We can relate to one or all these women: Envy Wilson; Layla Hobbs, and Kacie Mayweather.
Envy Wilson cannot understand why her mother would name her "Envy" and being the dark-skin sister of the group that finds love through all the wrong men. She also carries a deep dark secret that eventually will come to the light. She delivers her cold-cut-throat words to her friends, but gets them lashed back at her from Kacie. Although she does not have any kids that anyone sees or knows of, Kacie knows that she sleeps with many men to find love too. However, Kacie, is on the same bandwagon as Envy, except she has six kids to show for and working on baby number seven, believing this time it will be different. She is seeking for love due to her disability and believes that one day she will attract the right man, but she needs to build up her love for God and self-esteem. Then, there is Layla, who is the overweight sistah in the house (Heavy D song is ringing in my head). She has a distraught and violent brother (who she dated in the past) on her hands. She overcomes this tragic incident and possibly finds new love!
I love most about this book is that we are faced with either disabilities, obscurities, insecurities, do not like what God has given us (beauty-wise), or not loving ourselves therefore how can we love anyone else. Shelia Lipsey gets a humanity award for putting out a well-needed book, to see we can face these obscurities and see the love that God has for us (and our friends/family). We were fearfully and wonderfully made. A must-read for those facing insecurities, obscurities, or sisterhood (best friends forever) and many who are looking for a heart-felt book (good read)!
Adrienna Turner
AAMBC Book Reviewer
Envy Wilson cannot understand why her mother would name her "Envy" and being the dark-skin sister of the group that finds love through all the wrong men. She also carries a deep dark secret that eventually will come to the light. She delivers her cold-cut-throat words to her friends, but gets them lashed back at her from Kacie. Although she does not have any kids that anyone sees or knows of, Kacie knows that she sleeps with many men to find love too. However, Kacie, is on the same bandwagon as Envy, except she has six kids to show for and working on baby number seven, believing this time it will be different. She is seeking for love due to her disability and believes that one day she will attract the right man, but she needs to build up her love for God and self-esteem. Then, there is Layla, who is the overweight sistah in the house (Heavy D song is ringing in my head). She has a distraught and violent brother (who she dated in the past) on her hands. She overcomes this tragic incident and possibly finds new love!
I love most about this book is that we are faced with either disabilities, obscurities, insecurities, do not like what God has given us (beauty-wise), or not loving ourselves therefore how can we love anyone else. Shelia Lipsey gets a humanity award for putting out a well-needed book, to see we can face these obscurities and see the love that God has for us (and our friends/family). We were fearfully and wonderfully made. A must-read for those facing insecurities, obscurities, or sisterhood (best friends forever) and many who are looking for a heart-felt book (good read)!
Adrienna Turner
AAMBC Book Reviewer
November 22, 2009
Girlfriends
Envy Wilson is a single, black, hardworking woman with no children; she continuously sleeps with men and does not believe in love. Meanwhile, behind closed doors she is battling other demons from her "dark" past. Will she regain reality of her future and close the doors to her past?
Layla Hobbs is also a single, black female with no children that is obese and battling with many insecurities within her until a terrible incident changes her life forever. She has a very loving family but cannot seem to find a "good" man to save her. When the tables are turned for Layla, will she overcome her insecurities?
Kacie Mayweather is a single mom with many kids...yes, many. She's also battling a physical medical condition but acts as though she isn't. She loves her kids and takes care of them; but she does not see the terrible mistakes made while searching for love in the wrong places. Will Kacie ever learn the "error" of her trifling mistakes?
"Beautiful Ugly" by Shelia E. Lipsey is one of the most inspirational novels that I've read this year! I found that the characters in this novel, Envy, Layla, and Kacie, without a doubt reminded me of one of my current friends. These women will remind you of someone close to you; whether it's a sister, cousin, aunt, friend, etc. Do you think these women will actually find the ugliness within their heart and bring out the beauty? I truly did not understand the meaning of the title of this novel until I read this novel...excellent choice of words! There were many errors, but even still, I would recommend "Beautiful Ugly." I would continue to read more books by Shelia E. Lipsey in the near future.
Exquisite Novel!
Reviewed by: Tekisha
Envy Wilson is a single, black, hardworking woman with no children; she continuously sleeps with men and does not believe in love. Meanwhile, behind closed doors she is battling other demons from her "dark" past. Will she regain reality of her future and close the doors to her past?
Layla Hobbs is also a single, black female with no children that is obese and battling with many insecurities within her until a terrible incident changes her life forever. She has a very loving family but cannot seem to find a "good" man to save her. When the tables are turned for Layla, will she overcome her insecurities?
Kacie Mayweather is a single mom with many kids...yes, many. She's also battling a physical medical condition but acts as though she isn't. She loves her kids and takes care of them; but she does not see the terrible mistakes made while searching for love in the wrong places. Will Kacie ever learn the "error" of her trifling mistakes?
"Beautiful Ugly" by Shelia E. Lipsey is one of the most inspirational novels that I've read this year! I found that the characters in this novel, Envy, Layla, and Kacie, without a doubt reminded me of one of my current friends. These women will remind you of someone close to you; whether it's a sister, cousin, aunt, friend, etc. Do you think these women will actually find the ugliness within their heart and bring out the beauty? I truly did not understand the meaning of the title of this novel until I read this novel...excellent choice of words! There were many errors, but even still, I would recommend "Beautiful Ugly." I would continue to read more books by Shelia E. Lipsey in the near future.
Exquisite Novel!
Reviewed by: Tekisha
October 14, 2012
BEAUTY IS IN THE EYE OF THE BEHOLDER
Beautiful Ugly, by Shelia E. Lipsey, is the story of three friends who each have their own cross to bear. Envy Wilson is a cocky, beautiful woman with many bedtime friends. Will the secret she harbors destroy her or will she be able to let go of what has kept her bound? Layla Hobbs has the voice of an angel, but battles obesity and self-esteem issues. Her insecurities cause her to settle for the wrong man. Will a near-death experience force her to see her worth? Kacie Mayweather, born with cerebral palsy, has six children (and one on the way) with six no good daddies. She's accustomed to being ridiculed and taken advantage of by men. Will Deacon be the husband and father she's prayed for? Despite the challenges that each of these ladies faces, their bond is undeniable. "No matter how many times they fussed or fought, argued or disagreed, when it came down to looking out for each other, they laid all the small stuff aside and stepped up to do whatever needed to be done..."
Despite some minor editing flaws, Beautiful Ugly was an engaging novel filled with exciting twists and turns. The author's gift for storytelling afforded me an unexpected glimpse into the psyche of women - women who desire relationships with God, women who are contrite, controlled women and even women who are vulnerable and long for the touch of a man. This book is a must read for women (or men) who feel that their past or present renders them ugly in the eyes of God. As Lipsey wrote, "...God is bigger than any problem you are facing." If given the chance, He can make Beautiful Ugly.
J'son M. Lee, Reviewer
Beautiful Ugly, by Shelia E. Lipsey, is the story of three friends who each have their own cross to bear. Envy Wilson is a cocky, beautiful woman with many bedtime friends. Will the secret she harbors destroy her or will she be able to let go of what has kept her bound? Layla Hobbs has the voice of an angel, but battles obesity and self-esteem issues. Her insecurities cause her to settle for the wrong man. Will a near-death experience force her to see her worth? Kacie Mayweather, born with cerebral palsy, has six children (and one on the way) with six no good daddies. She's accustomed to being ridiculed and taken advantage of by men. Will Deacon be the husband and father she's prayed for? Despite the challenges that each of these ladies faces, their bond is undeniable. "No matter how many times they fussed or fought, argued or disagreed, when it came down to looking out for each other, they laid all the small stuff aside and stepped up to do whatever needed to be done..."
Despite some minor editing flaws, Beautiful Ugly was an engaging novel filled with exciting twists and turns. The author's gift for storytelling afforded me an unexpected glimpse into the psyche of women - women who desire relationships with God, women who are contrite, controlled women and even women who are vulnerable and long for the touch of a man. This book is a must read for women (or men) who feel that their past or present renders them ugly in the eyes of God. As Lipsey wrote, "...God is bigger than any problem you are facing." If given the chance, He can make Beautiful Ugly.
J'son M. Lee, Reviewer
February 14, 2010
In Beautiful Ugly, Sheila Lipsey delivers a soul searching, thought provoking, and inspirational story.
Kacie Mayweather is a single mother of six who finds herself pregnant again. Kacie’s desire to find love and be loved leads her to doing less than savory things. Hurt can make a person do things that they normally would not do.
Envy Wilson is beautiful and successful. Yet a secret from her past makes her feel anything but beautiful. It is hard to feel beautiful; and be accepting of true love, when one feels ugly on the inside.
Layla Hobbs has an issue with her weight. She struggles to find strength to mentally change her negative way of thinking, that she could never lose weight, nor be beautiful. An unexpected tragedy will cause a change both in Layla’s body, mind, and soul.
Sheila Lipsey captured the essence of true friendship in Beautiful Ugly; true friendship endures the testing of time, trials, and truths! A true friend with decorum and affection--- tells it like it is. The ladies will deal with their insecurities-- and each other; while keeping God in the midst of them. This was a heartfelt and inspirational read; the ending had me wanting more. This was a delightful read!
Dream 4 More Reviews,
Vanessa Richardson
* This is the opinion of the reviewer in which it does not reflect any views of Dream 4 More Literary Consulting Firm. Dream 4 More Reviews has received a copy of the book from the author for a book review.
Kacie Mayweather is a single mother of six who finds herself pregnant again. Kacie’s desire to find love and be loved leads her to doing less than savory things. Hurt can make a person do things that they normally would not do.
Envy Wilson is beautiful and successful. Yet a secret from her past makes her feel anything but beautiful. It is hard to feel beautiful; and be accepting of true love, when one feels ugly on the inside.
Layla Hobbs has an issue with her weight. She struggles to find strength to mentally change her negative way of thinking, that she could never lose weight, nor be beautiful. An unexpected tragedy will cause a change both in Layla’s body, mind, and soul.
Sheila Lipsey captured the essence of true friendship in Beautiful Ugly; true friendship endures the testing of time, trials, and truths! A true friend with decorum and affection--- tells it like it is. The ladies will deal with their insecurities-- and each other; while keeping God in the midst of them. This was a heartfelt and inspirational read; the ending had me wanting more. This was a delightful read!
Dream 4 More Reviews,
Vanessa Richardson
* This is the opinion of the reviewer in which it does not reflect any views of Dream 4 More Literary Consulting Firm. Dream 4 More Reviews has received a copy of the book from the author for a book review.
September 21, 2016
Thank You God
This book was very well written and I'm so glad that I decided to read it and get the finale at the same time. It spoke of truly trusting in God. It's so hard sometimes to forgive yourself of your sins even after God has.
Envy, Layla and Kacie are definitely true friends and sisters. The way they sometimes spoke so harshly to each other but was always able to be there for each other in spite of the harsh words was a beautiful thing to see. True friends are hard to find but I think these ladies have a super strong bond.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who needs to forgive themselves and the ones who hurt them. God is able. Bless you Shelia E. Lipsey !!!
This book was very well written and I'm so glad that I decided to read it and get the finale at the same time. It spoke of truly trusting in God. It's so hard sometimes to forgive yourself of your sins even after God has.
Envy, Layla and Kacie are definitely true friends and sisters. The way they sometimes spoke so harshly to each other but was always able to be there for each other in spite of the harsh words was a beautiful thing to see. True friends are hard to find but I think these ladies have a super strong bond.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who needs to forgive themselves and the ones who hurt them. God is able. Bless you Shelia E. Lipsey !!!
July 17, 2012
Beautiful Ugly by Author Shelia Lipsey is a wonder Christina –Fiction novel. This book has a message for everyone.
Beautiful Ugly is a story about 3 ladies of whom have been friends for years. Layla who Is overweight and has a beautiful singing with self-esteem issues. Kacie was born with cerebral palsy and has so many children and will continue to have children thinking she will find the right man to stay with her. Envy is the strongest of the friends.
Each friend has a number of issues that they are dealing with. The story line flows very good and the characters are well built.
I highly recommend this book. This book would be a great book club discussion.
Beautiful Ugly is a story about 3 ladies of whom have been friends for years. Layla who Is overweight and has a beautiful singing with self-esteem issues. Kacie was born with cerebral palsy and has so many children and will continue to have children thinking she will find the right man to stay with her. Envy is the strongest of the friends.
Each friend has a number of issues that they are dealing with. The story line flows very good and the characters are well built.
I highly recommend this book. This book would be a great book club discussion.
November 17, 2014
I really enjoyed this novel! Kacie, Layla and Envy all were dealing with past hurts and sins. They all had low self esteem and they fed off of that. They would argue call each other names, but in the end they always had each others back. Through the healing power of Jesus each of them find deliverance and acceptance of who they were. There's is a story similar to many lives and only God can really right the wrongs in our life. Good job Shelia Lipsey!
September 10, 2015
I liked this book a lot. Layla was my favorite character although, I could relate to all the girls in different ways.
I was bored with Envy and Kacie for some reason after a while until the end for Kacie, who was super frustrating to me as was her love interest. I did however, love the outcome as far as she and he went the twist was a BIG SURPRISE for me.
I don't like how the book ended literally, but it was all very well written. The author did a great job.
I was bored with Envy and Kacie for some reason after a while until the end for Kacie, who was super frustrating to me as was her love interest. I did however, love the outcome as far as she and he went the twist was a BIG SURPRISE for me.
I don't like how the book ended literally, but it was all very well written. The author did a great job.
October 21, 2009
This book was extremely slow and unimpressive. For the most part it was random drama. I also had a problem with it being Christian fiction, yet the main characters acted just like characters in any other book.
October 30, 2009
Shelia's story-telling and character voice skills are well done. She tells of redemption and the search for love over passion, and discovering that true beauty comes from the heart and soul and mind of those who know Christ.
February 15, 2010
I loved the story line. It was refreshing and so in your face- and real. Each character's story addressed what so many of our young women are facing today- situations and low self-esteem- to child hood abuse and the rest. As usual- Ms. Lipsey has captured my heart with her work.
July 12, 2012
I love how the elderly lady in the end of the story has helped Envy face and conquer her demons. Sometimes folks do things to run away from their demons instead of taking control of their life and face them. I love this book.
December 16, 2010
i think this book is amazing
even though this 3 best friends are strukiling wit thir own problem...
even though this 3 best friends are strukiling wit thir own problem...
June 15, 2011
I really liked this book, all three women have real life scenerios.
October 11, 2012
The talking behind each other's back and always referring to one of the character's size and other having several kids was a huge turn off for me. I only got through 3-4 chapters.
January 25, 2014
It was an ok read - uneven character development. However, plot was intriguing enough for me to finish this one.
April 9, 2017
A true gift
This book is beautifully written. You get to know the characters and their lives personally. You want to know everything about them. I've read many books in my life, but Shelia E. Lipsey is my favorite. She is a must Read. Keep em coming!!!
This book is beautifully written. You get to know the characters and their lives personally. You want to know everything about them. I've read many books in my life, but Shelia E. Lipsey is my favorite. She is a must Read. Keep em coming!!!
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews