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The Healing of Love and Laughter
Some smiles reflect more than just good times, occasionally they are a mask for pain. Comedian Isaac Golden learns the bright lights of Hollywood may shine for triumph, but in the shadows, drugs, wild women, and the fast life are waiting to take their toll on his soul. With the health of his childrens' mother on the brink, a sex-crazed mistress on the side, the criminal woes of his inept younger brother, and increasing stage opportunities, trying to balance ambitions of stardom with reality is no laughing matter. When his faith and obligations are challenged beyond his control, Isaac realizes that overnight success can be tomorrow's biggest failure. He soon finds himself in a deep and dark hole, clueless how it all happened so fast. Will he have any friends and prayer left to help him overcome the guilt and remorse of his ways, or will time run out before he can truly discover: The Healing of Love and Laughter. **For paperback visit www dot noguilebooks dot com**
462 pages, Paperback
First published November 10, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
February 16, 2012
I laughed a lot and I cried some too. I had so much compassion and empathy for the characters in this story, especially, Isaac. Isaac? Isaac!
We live in a world that will swallow you up if you don't keep your focus, sanity and head on straight. Isaac Golden was the perfect example of what not to do. It was strange how Isaac would do something really stupid to cause me to not like him, then he'd turn around and tell a couple of jokes and I was his biggest fan again. I wasn't happy with the end of this story, my heart wanted something completely different to happen. I was so invested in this book, emotionally because it read real. The truth is ... sometimes this is exactly the way it is. This is the ending for so many people and that thought really saddened me. I highly suggest this book.
We live in a world that will swallow you up if you don't keep your focus, sanity and head on straight. Isaac Golden was the perfect example of what not to do. It was strange how Isaac would do something really stupid to cause me to not like him, then he'd turn around and tell a couple of jokes and I was his biggest fan again. I wasn't happy with the end of this story, my heart wanted something completely different to happen. I was so invested in this book, emotionally because it read real. The truth is ... sometimes this is exactly the way it is. This is the ending for so many people and that thought really saddened me. I highly suggest this book.
October 11, 2011
You will laugh, you will cry, and you will be so surprised at the end!
I really tried to like Isaac. He was really such a funny guy! He cracked jokes that will have you rollin'! He wanted his dream of being a star comedian to come true so bad that he lost sight of what was going on around him. His first priority was himself. I found Isaac to be a very selfish person after the story got going. Remember, at first I really liked him. His problem is though that he had a one track mind---being a comedian no matter what the price. He wasn't thinking of what his girlfriend needed or his girls. He was determined he was gonna make it big. He said:
"Comedy has to be the way, he affirmed. It has to be what God intended for us to have a better life! "p. 29
His girlfriend Janna is in very bad health. She said it's okay for him to go, so why not go right? She was so unselfish that she wanted him to pursue his dreams while she stayed home with their girls. Janna said:
"When the Lord works on anyone, it‘s never an overnight process," Janna explained. "Just because we want everything right here, right now, doesn‘t mean that‘s His plan. God‘s at work. I can feel it. You may not be able to see it from the outside lookin‘ in, but from the inside lookin‘ out, it‘s there. So I‘m not stressin‘ whether Isaac is changin‘. I‘m not stressin‘ the hospital tomorrow. I‘m just keepin‘ my life and faith in God‘s hands.".........."I just have to believe. Everything works in God‘s favor if we just believe." p.64
This book was fast paced and I read it in one day. I really got immersed in the story. I didn't always like what was happening or how it ended, but I was just determined that Isaac was going to realize what he was doing and God would make it all right. When he started into drugs, it was hard to like what he was doing to himself and his family. I was trying to be optimistic like Janna. I was so glad that finally Isaac brought God into his life and when he realized that God doesn’t take things from us or do bad things to us. We do that to ourselves. When the pastor in the church was saying the message and Isaac went up to him, that was when I got chills. I know that addiction can really mess up a family. The addict doesn't realize the harm it can cause themselves and others until sometimes it's just too late.
Well done Rickey Teems II! You made me laugh with your wonderful sense of humor that I love! You made me mad when you went from what I had hoped to what is more realistic. You made me get teary eyed when you showed what can happen when you only think about what you want vs. thinking about what your family needs. It really did make me really stop and think about prayer. I believe in the power of prayer. I know my prayers will be answered, but only if I am willing to make some changes too. You can't keep making bad choices and expect everything to just float happily along.
I really tried to like Isaac. He was really such a funny guy! He cracked jokes that will have you rollin'! He wanted his dream of being a star comedian to come true so bad that he lost sight of what was going on around him. His first priority was himself. I found Isaac to be a very selfish person after the story got going. Remember, at first I really liked him. His problem is though that he had a one track mind---being a comedian no matter what the price. He wasn't thinking of what his girlfriend needed or his girls. He was determined he was gonna make it big. He said:
"Comedy has to be the way, he affirmed. It has to be what God intended for us to have a better life! "p. 29
His girlfriend Janna is in very bad health. She said it's okay for him to go, so why not go right? She was so unselfish that she wanted him to pursue his dreams while she stayed home with their girls. Janna said:
"When the Lord works on anyone, it‘s never an overnight process," Janna explained. "Just because we want everything right here, right now, doesn‘t mean that‘s His plan. God‘s at work. I can feel it. You may not be able to see it from the outside lookin‘ in, but from the inside lookin‘ out, it‘s there. So I‘m not stressin‘ whether Isaac is changin‘. I‘m not stressin‘ the hospital tomorrow. I‘m just keepin‘ my life and faith in God‘s hands.".........."I just have to believe. Everything works in God‘s favor if we just believe." p.64
This book was fast paced and I read it in one day. I really got immersed in the story. I didn't always like what was happening or how it ended, but I was just determined that Isaac was going to realize what he was doing and God would make it all right. When he started into drugs, it was hard to like what he was doing to himself and his family. I was trying to be optimistic like Janna. I was so glad that finally Isaac brought God into his life and when he realized that God doesn’t take things from us or do bad things to us. We do that to ourselves. When the pastor in the church was saying the message and Isaac went up to him, that was when I got chills. I know that addiction can really mess up a family. The addict doesn't realize the harm it can cause themselves and others until sometimes it's just too late.
Well done Rickey Teems II! You made me laugh with your wonderful sense of humor that I love! You made me mad when you went from what I had hoped to what is more realistic. You made me get teary eyed when you showed what can happen when you only think about what you want vs. thinking about what your family needs. It really did make me really stop and think about prayer. I believe in the power of prayer. I know my prayers will be answered, but only if I am willing to make some changes too. You can't keep making bad choices and expect everything to just float happily along.
August 10, 2016
I am so happy right now to be giving this review , for starters this book is not even out yet it's only for pre-order on Amazon so I feel truly blessed that the author bless me with the chance to be one of the very few people he gave a preview copy too. Secondly the author Mr. Rickey Teems was the first person to support my blog and see my dream (thanks Rick) great things are in your future buddy.
When I first entered this story I was met by Issac Golden an up and coming comedian trying to balance his family life which meant supporting his girlfriend and there two kids to his nightlight which meant hitting the stage trying to get a few laughs as well as getting in the pants of every female he could get his hands on. The name of this book speaks for itself because all the trails and tribulations Issac went through you just had to laugh to keep from crying. Issac was a immature man when it came to his family, but his girlfriend Janna always managed to keep the family together through prayer and her belief in God. Even when Issac could not afford to keep the lights on in there apartment she stuck by his side, while her own family and friends were saying to leave him and his cheating ways. I must say that Janna was a strong woman all the way up until her death. I really loved this story line I liked the way it showed all his trails and his addiction to drugs and the down hill spiral of his life. But what I like most is that it also shows that with prayer and by the grace of God you can fall down and get back up again. This book helped me to remember that God does not but anything on you that you cant bare and when we get second chances in this life time we should use them well. The plot was also very strong , the characters were amazing and very lovable. Okay so now it's Q&A time....
Would I recommend this book to anyone else? Readers please buy this book
How would I rate this book on a scale of 1-10? I give it a 8
Would I buy any other books from this author based off this one? Yes already waiting for his next book
March 28, 2012
When I started reading this book I had anxieties about what was going to happen. Normally; when reading I would spring forward and take a little peak, but reading on the Kindle I was restricted a bit. (I’m still getting use to my Fire. I enjoy turning pages)
Anyway with a title like The Healing of Love & Laughter the author should feel compelled to showcase the healing and readers Mr. Teems doesn’t disappoint.
In the very beginning Isaac and his manager and friend Gabriel (Gabe) got on my nerves with their juvenile ways. Both were easily distracted and neither was good for the other. I spent much of the first half of the book gritting my teeth and screaming; “now why would you do that”? “No just go home the hoochies are always around”.
But then the reader would glean the good in him that his girlfriend Janna saw, the good that spoke highly of Isaac’s intentions. Isaac’ dreams of making it big as a comic could not happen fast enough. He spent the money for the light bill and now his girlfriend and two daughters are in the dark.
Making people laugh comes natural for Isaac, while on stage he can hear and see the magic of his comedy. But when tragedy comes crouching at his door he must learn to hone skills already within him to move pass his personal darkness.
One of my many favorite quotes in the book was: “When the Lord works on anyone, it‘s never an overnight process” this is the kind of support Janna offered Isaac, many of us could take note.
King Solomon said in his proverbs "A cheerful heart is good medicine." One night at DnD listening to Isaac you will find that you would agree.
Missy
Readers Paradise
4 bookmarks
Anyway with a title like The Healing of Love & Laughter the author should feel compelled to showcase the healing and readers Mr. Teems doesn’t disappoint.
In the very beginning Isaac and his manager and friend Gabriel (Gabe) got on my nerves with their juvenile ways. Both were easily distracted and neither was good for the other. I spent much of the first half of the book gritting my teeth and screaming; “now why would you do that”? “No just go home the hoochies are always around”.
But then the reader would glean the good in him that his girlfriend Janna saw, the good that spoke highly of Isaac’s intentions. Isaac’ dreams of making it big as a comic could not happen fast enough. He spent the money for the light bill and now his girlfriend and two daughters are in the dark.
Making people laugh comes natural for Isaac, while on stage he can hear and see the magic of his comedy. But when tragedy comes crouching at his door he must learn to hone skills already within him to move pass his personal darkness.
One of my many favorite quotes in the book was: “When the Lord works on anyone, it‘s never an overnight process” this is the kind of support Janna offered Isaac, many of us could take note.
King Solomon said in his proverbs "A cheerful heart is good medicine." One night at DnD listening to Isaac you will find that you would agree.
Missy
Readers Paradise
4 bookmarks
December 17, 2011
Isaac Golden, a struggling comedian who's conflicted between his responsibilities at home & his dreams of stardom. Isaac finds out the bright lights in Hollywood also includes sex & drugs. Isaac has embarked on the biggest challenge of his life. Will he be able to balance his family life & still pursue his dreams? Will his dreams of the bright lights dim fast?
We are also introduced to some characters that will definitely have you experiencing emotions of happiness & sadness.
Joey - Isaac's brother who in my opinion could have had an occupation as a comedian. He has a natural gift of making people laugh, but he finds himself in more trouble than he anticipated.
Janna - Isaac's girlfriend who holds the family down but after her health takes a turn for the worse she begins to rethink some of the sacrifices she has made for Isaac's dream.
As I read this book, I reflected on some of the choices I have made in my personal life. I thought of the "missed" opportunities of "love", the pursuit of my dreams, and my responsibilities as a mother. Then I remembered without a TEST there's no TESTIMONY.
Mr. Teems II brings to life the story of redemption, pain, sorrow, laughter, and faith. This is the second book I have read from Mr. Teems II and I can boldly say.... "Rickey Teems II never fails to give readers "Food for Thought". He steps out of the mold of familiarity and blazes a trail of his own.
No matter where our lives may lead us...... We all want "Healing from Love & Laughter" .
I highly recommend this book.
5 Stars
Orsayor
April 10, 2012
If Wasn't For Bad Luck Have No Luck At All
Author Rickey Teems II has done it again with another thought provoking novel. I love reading his novels as they are outside the box and keep you interested in what is going to happen next. Real problems, real issues that everyday people face. At the backdrop of it all, we see friendship is a key element of this novel.
Issac Golden is an up and coming comedian, with a supportive girlfriend, Jenna, at home. They have two daughters whom she puts up a brave front for as her health is failing. Issac has been known to hustle backwards with one great scheme after another. This time he is determined to make it with his stand up act. Issac's family which includes his younger brother Joey and best friend Gabe (his manager) is behind him in his new endeavor. When things start to look up and success is coming his way he goes on a steady downward spiral. Girls and drugs would be anyone’s downfall; will Issac be able to pull it together after one lost after another?
I felt every emotions as this is vividly written. I was drawn into the story; the hooks were caught in me and I couldn't get loose until the end. My interest was first piqued by the book trailer. This was the very first book I ever bought because of a book trailer. This novel was just as good no, better than the trailer portrayed it to be. If you haven't read a book by Mr. Teems, you don't know you are missing.
SiStar Tea
ARC Book Club Inc.
5 star rating
April 2012
Author Rickey Teems II has done it again with another thought provoking novel. I love reading his novels as they are outside the box and keep you interested in what is going to happen next. Real problems, real issues that everyday people face. At the backdrop of it all, we see friendship is a key element of this novel.
Issac Golden is an up and coming comedian, with a supportive girlfriend, Jenna, at home. They have two daughters whom she puts up a brave front for as her health is failing. Issac has been known to hustle backwards with one great scheme after another. This time he is determined to make it with his stand up act. Issac's family which includes his younger brother Joey and best friend Gabe (his manager) is behind him in his new endeavor. When things start to look up and success is coming his way he goes on a steady downward spiral. Girls and drugs would be anyone’s downfall; will Issac be able to pull it together after one lost after another?
I felt every emotions as this is vividly written. I was drawn into the story; the hooks were caught in me and I couldn't get loose until the end. My interest was first piqued by the book trailer. This was the very first book I ever bought because of a book trailer. This novel was just as good no, better than the trailer portrayed it to be. If you haven't read a book by Mr. Teems, you don't know you are missing.
SiStar Tea
ARC Book Club Inc.
5 star rating
April 2012
February 19, 2012
Title: The Healing of Love & Laughter
Author: Rickey Teems II
Rating: 5
Headline: Every Emotion is Touched!
The Healing of Love & Laughter by Rickey Teems II is unlike any Christian fiction book I have ever read. Isaac Golden is an aspiring comedian who has a girlfriend that sticks by him even though he can barely provide for her and their two daughters. Isaac gets his shot at a well-known comedy club and this opens the door for not only for more performances, but also access to women and drugs.
Isaac takes full advantage of the women and drugs that are now at his disposal even though his girlfriend, Janna, is having some serious health issues. At this point, you are cheering because his career seems to be taking off but on the other hand, you find yourself really upset with Isaac because of how he is handling his personal life. Tragedy strikes Isaac, and it strikes hard, fast, and multiple times.
The Healing of Love & Laughter will hit every emotion possible from happiness, to anger, to disappointment, to joy, and sadness. This book will entice you from the very first page to the last word. Rickey Teems II is an author with a very bright future and I look forward to reading more from him!
Author: Rickey Teems II
Rating: 5
Headline: Every Emotion is Touched!
The Healing of Love & Laughter by Rickey Teems II is unlike any Christian fiction book I have ever read. Isaac Golden is an aspiring comedian who has a girlfriend that sticks by him even though he can barely provide for her and their two daughters. Isaac gets his shot at a well-known comedy club and this opens the door for not only for more performances, but also access to women and drugs.
Isaac takes full advantage of the women and drugs that are now at his disposal even though his girlfriend, Janna, is having some serious health issues. At this point, you are cheering because his career seems to be taking off but on the other hand, you find yourself really upset with Isaac because of how he is handling his personal life. Tragedy strikes Isaac, and it strikes hard, fast, and multiple times.
The Healing of Love & Laughter will hit every emotion possible from happiness, to anger, to disappointment, to joy, and sadness. This book will entice you from the very first page to the last word. Rickey Teems II is an author with a very bright future and I look forward to reading more from him!
July 9, 2012
I was speechless when I finished The Healing of Love & Laughter by Rickey Teems II. This is a story about dreams, choices, and consequences. You will be taken on a journey that will elicit a full range of emotions from laughter to outrage to sadness. The Healing of Love and Laughter definitely speaks to the soul and reminds us that being reckless with free will isn’t always free. I found this to be a very thought-provoking book and a great learning tool, as well.
Sistah Tashmir
SistahFriend Book Club
Sistah Tashmir
SistahFriend Book Club
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews