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This Game Called Life
A young and ambitious Tonya Arlington dreamed of a life filled with success and riches, but due to tragic events in her life, Tonya is forced at a young age to take off her blindfold of innocence and face the reality of life head on. Finally ready to accept that her life will never be as she dreamed, she is unexpectedly courted by a local hustler named Rondell Jackson.
Rondell Jackson, also know as Ronnie, is a nineteen year old genius. Being school and street smart has put Ronnie on top of the drug game in Harlem. Even though Ronnie seems to have everything and should want for nothing, he's still searching for his "Bonnie". Just as he's set to give up his search on looking for his true solider, he meets Tonya.
Will Ronnie be the knight in shining armor that Tonya needs? Will Tonya be the ride or die woman Ronnie's been looking for? Or will this be a tragedy in the making? Find out what happens when Tonya becomes a player in This Game Called Life...
Rondell Jackson, also know as Ronnie, is a nineteen year old genius. Being school and street smart has put Ronnie on top of the drug game in Harlem. Even though Ronnie seems to have everything and should want for nothing, he's still searching for his "Bonnie". Just as he's set to give up his search on looking for his true solider, he meets Tonya.
Will Ronnie be the knight in shining armor that Tonya needs? Will Tonya be the ride or die woman Ronnie's been looking for? Or will this be a tragedy in the making? Find out what happens when Tonya becomes a player in This Game Called Life...
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 29, 2012
5 people are currently reading
55 people want to read
About the author
Marie A. Norfleet
6 books39 followersMarie A. Norfleet - An Authoress, CEO of Game Changing Dynasty (umbrella to companies Game Changing Publications, Game Changing Prints, Game Changing Designs, Game Changing Apparel, Game Changers Footwear and Game Changers Cosmetics) Stage Play producer, aspiring actress/singer
Marie, a jack of many trades; is a fairly new face in the literary world, bursting onto the scene, ready and willing to share her stories. Since she was a young child, writing became a significant factor in her life, often her escape from the reality of the real world. As life's obstacles began to take their positions and the hurdles became harder to jump over, her love for writing slowly died. But at the tender age of 22, having been through many trials & tribulations in her young life, from abusive relationships, teen pregnancy, homelessness and prostitution to finding love, getting married and starting a family; Marie was inspired and picked up her pen again.
Writing a memoir like story with an urban fictional twist, Marie entitled the book "This Game Called Life". The title came from an expression Marie heard a lot while growing up "Life is like a card game, either you play the hand you were dealt or you fold". Immediately upon finishing the story and reading it over, Marie made the conscious decision to share her heartfelt tale and broadcast her refueled passion for writing to the world. She independently released her debut title on April 30th 2012, selling over a thousand copies and landing on few of Amazon's Best Seller's List in a short three month span. With the success of her book, Marie decided to submit her story to, G Street Chronicles, a major publishing house in Urban Literature. She signed a contract with them in July of 2012.
A decision was collectively made, to pull the book from its online retailers; "This Game Called Life" was revised and re-released on August 25th 2012. Due to irreconcilable differences, G Street Chronicles and Marie parted ways in December of 2012. Marie has since, started her own self -publishing company, "Game Changing Publications" and several other subdivisions under her own umbrella Game Changing Dynasty.
Marie, a jack of many trades; is a fairly new face in the literary world, bursting onto the scene, ready and willing to share her stories. Since she was a young child, writing became a significant factor in her life, often her escape from the reality of the real world. As life's obstacles began to take their positions and the hurdles became harder to jump over, her love for writing slowly died. But at the tender age of 22, having been through many trials & tribulations in her young life, from abusive relationships, teen pregnancy, homelessness and prostitution to finding love, getting married and starting a family; Marie was inspired and picked up her pen again.
Writing a memoir like story with an urban fictional twist, Marie entitled the book "This Game Called Life". The title came from an expression Marie heard a lot while growing up "Life is like a card game, either you play the hand you were dealt or you fold". Immediately upon finishing the story and reading it over, Marie made the conscious decision to share her heartfelt tale and broadcast her refueled passion for writing to the world. She independently released her debut title on April 30th 2012, selling over a thousand copies and landing on few of Amazon's Best Seller's List in a short three month span. With the success of her book, Marie decided to submit her story to, G Street Chronicles, a major publishing house in Urban Literature. She signed a contract with them in July of 2012.
A decision was collectively made, to pull the book from its online retailers; "This Game Called Life" was revised and re-released on August 25th 2012. Due to irreconcilable differences, G Street Chronicles and Marie parted ways in December of 2012. Marie has since, started her own self -publishing company, "Game Changing Publications" and several other subdivisions under her own umbrella Game Changing Dynasty.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
July 21, 2013
Life Is Not a Game
Abused by the very people who should love, care for and nurture her, Tonya Arlington learned some of life’s lessons at a very early age. She, however, sees a light at the end of the tunnel through her bff Alex and her relationship with Rondell ‘Ronnie’ Jackson, a local drug dealer.
“This Game Called Life” seemed to address an important issue that unfortunately affects too many of our babies today – sexual abuse. Attempt noted and appreciated. However, it was lost. Lost in poor execution. “This Game Called Life” read like a first draft, full of errors, inconsistencies, unbelievable things/scenes and lacked development. It was also hard to take a lesson from a story about molestation when the book was about more molestation dressed up and weakly disguised as love and a relationship as the main character’s ‘knight in shining armor’ was a grown man and she was still a child. Molestation by any other name is still molestation.
There were flips and flops in narration. Some chapters started without the reader aware of whose point of view was being expressed. These flips and flops in narration also included characters whose point of views were not pertinent to the plot and were as short as a few paragraphs.
From the story to the author’s note, it’s obvious the author wanted to inform and challenge the mind of readers but comes up way too short. In the end, Marie Norfleet’s “This Game Called Life” turned out to be a poorly executed very typical street tale. A tale that’s been told many times before. I strongly suggest the author and publisher seek the assistance of copy and developmental editors.
Reviewed by: Toni
1.5 stars
Abused by the very people who should love, care for and nurture her, Tonya Arlington learned some of life’s lessons at a very early age. She, however, sees a light at the end of the tunnel through her bff Alex and her relationship with Rondell ‘Ronnie’ Jackson, a local drug dealer.
“This Game Called Life” seemed to address an important issue that unfortunately affects too many of our babies today – sexual abuse. Attempt noted and appreciated. However, it was lost. Lost in poor execution. “This Game Called Life” read like a first draft, full of errors, inconsistencies, unbelievable things/scenes and lacked development. It was also hard to take a lesson from a story about molestation when the book was about more molestation dressed up and weakly disguised as love and a relationship as the main character’s ‘knight in shining armor’ was a grown man and she was still a child. Molestation by any other name is still molestation.
There were flips and flops in narration. Some chapters started without the reader aware of whose point of view was being expressed. These flips and flops in narration also included characters whose point of views were not pertinent to the plot and were as short as a few paragraphs.
From the story to the author’s note, it’s obvious the author wanted to inform and challenge the mind of readers but comes up way too short. In the end, Marie Norfleet’s “This Game Called Life” turned out to be a poorly executed very typical street tale. A tale that’s been told many times before. I strongly suggest the author and publisher seek the assistance of copy and developmental editors.
Reviewed by: Toni
1.5 stars
December 19, 2012
I really enjoyed this story and the author seems to be a sweetheart. This book tackles some very serious issues regarding abuse, child molestation and betrayal. The main character went through so much that at times I forgot that she was so young. It started off a bit slow for me but once things started happening it went off with a BANG and I was all into the story, I was consumed by it that I read it on my phone in a couple of hours and was mad when it ended. I cant wait for part 2 bc I have so many unanswered questions!!!! This was a great first book by Authoress Marie Norfleet
Update: I just finished the revised edition of this book. I still reread the entire book even though I was familiar with the story. The author made some revisions and added more details to the storyline. This edition went way beyond where the original story left off. I really enjoyed the fact that I learned more about the characters and their motives and my feelings changed for certain characters. I'm even more excited to get my hands on part 2 now.
Update: I just finished the revised edition of this book. I still reread the entire book even though I was familiar with the story. The author made some revisions and added more details to the storyline. This edition went way beyond where the original story left off. I really enjoyed the fact that I learned more about the characters and their motives and my feelings changed for certain characters. I'm even more excited to get my hands on part 2 now.
January 4, 2013
This Game Called Life" was very touching. The author addressed a very serious issue that many children have or are currently dealing with in her book. The cries of these children are often missed or ignored. Tonya the main character in this book was a very strong and determined young lady that experienced numerous unfortunate incidents growing up. She was forced to leave her home and survive on her own. Tonya was forced to grow up fast and had to face things that many of us experience later in life, such as love, trust, betrayal, and lies. I enjoyed "This Game Called Life" it made me cry, angry and at times happy and I am patiently waiting for part 2.
March 4, 2015
I enjoyed reading this book it was fast paced I felt bad for Tonya and all that's she's thru Ronnie does love her but he wants his cake and eat it to Shadow is his best friend Alex was done wrong there is so much I want to tell I don't want to spoil it I recommend other readers to go and cop this book it's that damn good
May 6, 2013
I loved it! Waiting for part two to drop
August 6, 2014
Wow................ This was a first time reading her Marie A Norfleet book and I must say this book was good. I read this book in four hours. Couldn't put it down. I am so ready for part 2.
March 18, 2013
Family is supposed to love you, protect you and keep you safe from harm. What do you do when you your family is the ones that are torturing you, who do you run to then?
Tonya Arlington is a beautiful girl both inside and out. She never gives her parents any problems but trouble and problems seem to always find her. Tonya has nothing but love for her father, after all what girl doesn't love her father at 7 years old? When her father tells her that he needs her to help him because of her love for him she agrees, but little did she know that this was the beginning of a life of disappointment and hurt at the hands of her father. As Tonya grows older the abuse continues and becomes ten fold when she is now also being abused by her uncle. Determined to live a normal life as a teenager Tonya does the only thing that she could do, she reaches out to her best friend Alex. Alex being the consummate friend she helps Tonya escape from her reality, but is that enough? Through a series of life changing events, Tonya rebuilds faith in people and relationships only to be disappointed time and time again. Will life ever get any better for Tonya or is she destined to be a victim forever?
This Game Called Life is a book about the worst form of child abuse, which is sexual assault. It is a reality for so many children and is not talked about enough, but it also shows that you can recover and continue with your life in a positive manner. Norfleet has taken us on a journey that some might not want to go on, the book is detailed with the abuse but it is well written and gives a strong story that will have you talking to the characters and ready to fight alongside them. I appreciate that she was able to write this story in such a way that would not have us putting the book down because we couldn't handle the content. Great story, great writing, I look forward to reading more and more from Norfleet in the future.
Tonya Arlington is a beautiful girl both inside and out. She never gives her parents any problems but trouble and problems seem to always find her. Tonya has nothing but love for her father, after all what girl doesn't love her father at 7 years old? When her father tells her that he needs her to help him because of her love for him she agrees, but little did she know that this was the beginning of a life of disappointment and hurt at the hands of her father. As Tonya grows older the abuse continues and becomes ten fold when she is now also being abused by her uncle. Determined to live a normal life as a teenager Tonya does the only thing that she could do, she reaches out to her best friend Alex. Alex being the consummate friend she helps Tonya escape from her reality, but is that enough? Through a series of life changing events, Tonya rebuilds faith in people and relationships only to be disappointed time and time again. Will life ever get any better for Tonya or is she destined to be a victim forever?
This Game Called Life is a book about the worst form of child abuse, which is sexual assault. It is a reality for so many children and is not talked about enough, but it also shows that you can recover and continue with your life in a positive manner. Norfleet has taken us on a journey that some might not want to go on, the book is detailed with the abuse but it is well written and gives a strong story that will have you talking to the characters and ready to fight alongside them. I appreciate that she was able to write this story in such a way that would not have us putting the book down because we couldn't handle the content. Great story, great writing, I look forward to reading more and more from Norfleet in the future.
October 20, 2012
'Dirty secrets and sheisty lies...'
Can a product of abuse find true love or will her past of being misused, beaten, betrayed and deceived continue to plague her life? Tonya has lived through so many tragedies until she meets Ronnie, a kingpin that's smitten with her. Can her future overshadow all the suffering she has experienced? Can she trust those closest to her?
This Game Called Life was an interesting read that addressed child abuse, the victim's, family, consequences and reactions. I commend the author for delving into such a dark and evil act but found some of the scenarios unbelievable and contradictory. The storyline had great potential but it seemed as if the everytime the plot was thickening, the author would skip to another subplot. The inconsistency and contradictions proved to be discouraging and disappointing as well as the age and I kept getting confused with the timeline. I think if the author concentrates on completing each of the introduced plots with well developed scenarios mirroring truth and consequences, her second installation will be a much better read. This second edition of this book is a great improvement from the initial version and I applaud Ms. Norfleet for correcting it. 3.68
Can a product of abuse find true love or will her past of being misused, beaten, betrayed and deceived continue to plague her life? Tonya has lived through so many tragedies until she meets Ronnie, a kingpin that's smitten with her. Can her future overshadow all the suffering she has experienced? Can she trust those closest to her?
This Game Called Life was an interesting read that addressed child abuse, the victim's, family, consequences and reactions. I commend the author for delving into such a dark and evil act but found some of the scenarios unbelievable and contradictory. The storyline had great potential but it seemed as if the everytime the plot was thickening, the author would skip to another subplot. The inconsistency and contradictions proved to be discouraging and disappointing as well as the age and I kept getting confused with the timeline. I think if the author concentrates on completing each of the introduced plots with well developed scenarios mirroring truth and consequences, her second installation will be a much better read. This second edition of this book is a great improvement from the initial version and I applaud Ms. Norfleet for correcting it. 3.68
May 1, 2013
This Game Called Life is the story of Tonya Arlington & Ronnie Jackson. Ronnie is the true player and Tonya is a teen who suffers incest. The opening of the book started off real strong and I felt every emotion from sadness to anger. As the book progressed, there were multiple scenes where I would get lost for a few minutes but managed to find my way back. Almost every chapter contained some form of drama and it left me anxious to read the next chapter. The way the book ended will leave a reasonable person to want to read the second book (soon to be released).
The only reason why I gave it 4 stars was because the sex scenes were too detailed and wasn't relevant to the story (possibly to reach the street lit crowd - and that's cool). Apart from that, a lot of people can learn from these two characters (and hopefully choose better for their lives). Life isn't always rosy, but the power of choice is so real.
Normally, I read the author's note just to know a little about it. The note about Marie Norfleet touched me to the core. She has a heart for those who have suffered incest and abuse and I applaud her for that. This was a good read, congrats.
The only reason why I gave it 4 stars was because the sex scenes were too detailed and wasn't relevant to the story (possibly to reach the street lit crowd - and that's cool). Apart from that, a lot of people can learn from these two characters (and hopefully choose better for their lives). Life isn't always rosy, but the power of choice is so real.
Normally, I read the author's note just to know a little about it. The note about Marie Norfleet touched me to the core. She has a heart for those who have suffered incest and abuse and I applaud her for that. This was a good read, congrats.
August 4, 2012
“ This Game Called Life” by Marie Norfleet was nothing like I imagined. I put off reading this book as I was hesitant to give a new author a chance. I’ve definitely learned my lesson! From page one, this story grabbed my attention! It is the story of Tonya, a young girl living through hell at home. From an abusive father and uncle as well as a mother who’s turned a blind eye, the poor girl just can’t catch a break. That is until she meets Ronnie. She believes he is her knight and shining armor. The one that can take her away from all that life has thrown at her. But everything is not how it seems and Tonya quickly finds herself spiraling out of control in this game we call life.
TGCL was fast paced from beginning to end. This was a fresh breath of air compared to some of the books I have recently read. This story dealt with a lot of real life issues including child abuse, domestic violence, infidelity, and teenage pregnancy. I look forward to reading part two! Job well done Marie. 5 stars.
~Black Faithful Sister and Brothers Book Club~
TGCL was fast paced from beginning to end. This was a fresh breath of air compared to some of the books I have recently read. This story dealt with a lot of real life issues including child abuse, domestic violence, infidelity, and teenage pregnancy. I look forward to reading part two! Job well done Marie. 5 stars.
~Black Faithful Sister and Brothers Book Club~
July 14, 2012
Read this book in about a day started late last night and finished up this morning.
I thought the book had a very good story line, from the first pages you got to know the main character Tonya and her story, which is a sad story. At a young age Tonya's innocence is being taken away from her by her dad and by her uncle... theres a major twist in that situation as well. The story introduces Tonya to us at a young age and follows her until her teenage years.
There is a lot of drama in the book dealing with relationships, friendships, family drama and much more.
I wonder what is going to happen at the end because a person from the past shows back up for Tonya and totally suprises her and it isnt a good suprise. Cant wait to see what will happen next.
I had spoke with the author and saldy I had an old edition which editing was a little funky but she told me it is fixed! So I think everyone will truly enjoy the book. Cant wait for part 2.
I thought the book had a very good story line, from the first pages you got to know the main character Tonya and her story, which is a sad story. At a young age Tonya's innocence is being taken away from her by her dad and by her uncle... theres a major twist in that situation as well. The story introduces Tonya to us at a young age and follows her until her teenage years.
There is a lot of drama in the book dealing with relationships, friendships, family drama and much more.
I wonder what is going to happen at the end because a person from the past shows back up for Tonya and totally suprises her and it isnt a good suprise. Cant wait to see what will happen next.
I had spoke with the author and saldy I had an old edition which editing was a little funky but she told me it is fixed! So I think everyone will truly enjoy the book. Cant wait for part 2.
December 8, 2012
Wow!! This book was KraZy good. There was so much drama that this book was topsy turvy for me. One minute I'm loving Ronnie and than the next I can't stand his ass. How can you claim to love someone when you know that your actions will only cause them pain. I feel like he's confused he wants the best of both worlds. As far as Shadow goes I think I've became a fan. He seems so caring and totally opposite of Ronnie. How they deal with the things in their life I don't know. Tonya shes been through so much and Alex where do I start. I'm just going to say that there are at lot of secrets that lie between them, that neither expected. There are still a lot of unanswered questions that I have. I'm at a loss of words right now because I don't know what to expect like what's next but I'm anxiously awaiting to find out. Part 2 needs to hurry up.
March 16, 2013
Ok so the only reason I couldn't give this book the 5*s it probably deserves is because a couple of the scenes were a little too unrealistic for me. I won't give out spoilers or say that these type of situations don't happen, I just found it a little difficult to swallow
With that being said TGCL was still an amazing story!! At times I found myself shedding tears for Tonya's and the turmoil that was going on in her life. Then there were times when I wanted to beat the breaks off of Ronnie and his trifling ways. This book gave me a rush and I can't wait to read more from Ms Norfleet!! Her story telling skills are amazing and she literally pulls you in from page one. I can't wait to get my hands on part 2 and see what other antics Ronnie has up his sleeves.
With that being said TGCL was still an amazing story!! At times I found myself shedding tears for Tonya's and the turmoil that was going on in her life. Then there were times when I wanted to beat the breaks off of Ronnie and his trifling ways. This book gave me a rush and I can't wait to read more from Ms Norfleet!! Her story telling skills are amazing and she literally pulls you in from page one. I can't wait to get my hands on part 2 and see what other antics Ronnie has up his sleeves.
January 20, 2013
This Game Called Life" was very touching. The author addressed a very serious issue that many children have or are currently dealing with in her book. The cries of these children are often missed or ignored. Tonya the main character in this book was a very strong and determined young lady that experienced numerous unfortunate incidents growing up. She was forced to leave her home and survive on her own. Tonya was forced to grow up fast and had to face things that many of us experience later in life, such as love, trust, betrayal, and lies. I enjoyed "This Game Called Life" it made me cry, angry and at times happy and I am patiently waiting for part 2.
July 10, 2012
This is a story that is truly well written! It deals with child abuse, love, friendships and betrayals. The story will keep you guessing, and you will never know what is happening next. I couldn't help but to truly like Tanya and hated that she had to go through so much in her short life. I cannot wait to see what the author has up her sleeves for the sequel!
February 8, 2014
This book was a hard read at first with all the sex abuse on a minor. After getting through that part the story was interesting. I have to say that this was a good read. I would have given it five stars however there was a lot if typos. Please protect our children from the monsters that abuse them!
August 7, 2012
this book is awesome it is a definate page turner I really like this book life can definatly become a big game
Read
July 3, 2013*sigh*
January 30, 2015
Can't wait to read part 2... Page turner.....
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews