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Sweet Bye-Bye
My recipe for happiness was Keep your man by your side, keep your game face on, and if at all possible, keep a Coach bag in your hand. You should look happy and vibrant. People treat you better when they think you have money, or are beautiful. Besides, if you keep up the front, they never really know how bad you feel ...
Chantell Meyers figures she's got her life together. After all, she's envied for her successful, high-paying executive job; spending all the money and wearing all the clothes she could ever want; and a just-too-perfect fiance, Eric. Sure, she'd be the first to admit she's never really at peace with herself. And she knows it's been way too long since she set foot in church-or thought much about her relationship with God. But Chantell learned long ago, when her beloved mother died, that if you can't forget your pain, the very next best thing to do is to hide it. Little by little, she has started to believe that looking and living good counts more -- and hurts a lot less -- than being real.
Then suddenly her father has a near-fatal heart attack-and Chantell gets a major reality check. She promises God she will try to be a better person if her father pulls through. Yet it isn't long before her good intentions begin unraveling her "good life" in the worst way. Before she knows it, she's facing big-time betrayal in her personal life and a major meltdown at work. And when Keith Talbit, a childhood acquaintance, unexpectedly comes back into her life, she finds herself looking longingly at a successful, good-looking Christian man secure in himself and his walk-just the kind of man she's sure she's not worthy to love. Reeling from mega-drama and more bad news, this dedicated shopper must now look to God-and back into her past-to find out how she wants to spend the rest of her life. It will take everything she didn't think she had to put her life in God's hands...and truly "have it all."
Chantell Meyers figures she's got her life together. After all, she's envied for her successful, high-paying executive job; spending all the money and wearing all the clothes she could ever want; and a just-too-perfect fiance, Eric. Sure, she'd be the first to admit she's never really at peace with herself. And she knows it's been way too long since she set foot in church-or thought much about her relationship with God. But Chantell learned long ago, when her beloved mother died, that if you can't forget your pain, the very next best thing to do is to hide it. Little by little, she has started to believe that looking and living good counts more -- and hurts a lot less -- than being real.
Then suddenly her father has a near-fatal heart attack-and Chantell gets a major reality check. She promises God she will try to be a better person if her father pulls through. Yet it isn't long before her good intentions begin unraveling her "good life" in the worst way. Before she knows it, she's facing big-time betrayal in her personal life and a major meltdown at work. And when Keith Talbit, a childhood acquaintance, unexpectedly comes back into her life, she finds herself looking longingly at a successful, good-looking Christian man secure in himself and his walk-just the kind of man she's sure she's not worthy to love. Reeling from mega-drama and more bad news, this dedicated shopper must now look to God-and back into her past-to find out how she wants to spend the rest of her life. It will take everything she didn't think she had to put her life in God's hands...and truly "have it all."
288 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2004
5 people are currently reading
47 people want to read
About the author
Denise Michelle Harris
4 books2 followersDenise Michelle Harris is the author of
Sweet Bye-Bye
. Chantell Meyers's father is on his deathbed. Desperate to somehow save him, Chantell makes a promise to God that if He allows her father to live, she will become a better person. Now that her father has pulled through, she is determined to keep her word. But soon Chantell is faced with a series of trials, temptations, and revelations that test her faith. After she decides to stop having sex until she gets married, her boyfriend's response is devastating: he two-times her. Forced to break up with him, Chantell finds that the harder she tries to keep her promise to God and be a better person, the more complicated her life becomes. It is only by relinquishing her desire to "have it all" that Chantell is able to get everything she's ever wanted.
Reviews:
"Good characterizations and a compelling plot make this a fine read."
-- Booklist
"Harris delivers the quintessential African-American chick lit heroine...She shows us how to become a woman after God's heart!"
-- Romantic Times Bookclub magazine
"Compelling...Breezy...Laced with humor...We embark on a spiritual journey with Chantell as she finds peace in her spirit through God."
-- Atlanta Daily World
Reviews:
"Good characterizations and a compelling plot make this a fine read."
-- Booklist
"Harris delivers the quintessential African-American chick lit heroine...She shows us how to become a woman after God's heart!"
-- Romantic Times Bookclub magazine
"Compelling...Breezy...Laced with humor...We embark on a spiritual journey with Chantell as she finds peace in her spirit through God."
-- Atlanta Daily World
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
June 23, 2010
(I couldn't make it past Chapter 5.)
Boring!
The description had promise. Upon reading, I missed the correlation with...everything!
If you're into name-dropping (designer handbag this, "We look like GAP models" that) and a slow start, then this is the book for you.
Boring!
The description had promise. Upon reading, I missed the correlation with...everything!
If you're into name-dropping (designer handbag this, "We look like GAP models" that) and a slow start, then this is the book for you.
August 23, 2011
Happiness is on the inside. So true. I swear, I know people that act like the character! I really liked this book!
February 11, 2013
It was a distraction, at a difficult time. Like another reviewer, I know people like the character--it is unfortunate, but real.
June 14, 2014
Good book. A bit obvious at time but inspirational story! Love the characters, you can relate to the them! Some characters will remind you of people you know or yourself.
November 2, 2020
Chantelle thinks she has it all until her dad has a near-fatal heart attack. She promises God that she will be a better person. It doesn’t work like she plans with a personal betrayal and a meltdown at work. A former schoolmate walks into her life with his life together. This confuses her and she has to look to her past and God to find herself.
August 25, 2018
Although the story was a bit predictable at times, I enjoyed it
February 9, 2008
Happiness and contentment can only be found within.
July 16, 2023
Denise Michelle Harris's "Sweet Bye-Bye" is a delightful novel that will appeal to fans of Sophie Kinsella and Emily Giffin. Like Kinsella, Harris infuses her storytelling with wit and charm, creating an enjoyable and feel-good reading experience. Meanwhile, fans of Emily Giffin's works will appreciate the depth and emotional resonance that Harris brings to her characters and their relationships. With its relatable characters, heartfelt storytelling, and exploration of personal growth, this book is a must-read for those seeking an uplifting and entertaining story.
The story revolves around Chantelle Meyers, a woman who seems to have it all—a successful career, a high-paying job, and a seemingly perfect fiancé, Eric. However, beneath her polished exterior lies a deep sense of discontentment. The sudden health scare of her father becomes a catalyst for Chantelle's journey of self-discovery and transformation.
I love Harris's ability to create authentic and multidimensional characters. Chantelle is a relatable protagonist, flawed yet endearing, as she grapples with the pressures of society and her own insecurities. Harris masterfully portrays Chantelle's emotional journey, allowing readers to connect with her struggles, hopes, and dreams.
The book touches upon various themes, including the importance of authenticity, the power of self-reflection, and the role of faith in one's life. Through Chantelle's experiences, readers are reminded of the significance of being true to oneself and finding solace in spirituality. Harris's exploration of these themes adds a sweet sincerity to the narrative, making it more than just a light-hearted chick lit novel.
In terms of writing style, Harris's prose is engaging and accessible, making it easy for readers to immerse themselves in the story. The pacing feels well-balanced, and the plot moves forward while allowing moments of introspection and character development. The dialogue is witty and natural – there are quite a few laugh out loud moments.
"Sweet Bye-Bye" is a charming and thought-provoking chick lit novel that combines elements of romance, self-discovery, and faith. Denise Michelle Harris's talent for creating relatable characters and her skillful storytelling make this book an enjoyable and satisfying read.
The story revolves around Chantelle Meyers, a woman who seems to have it all—a successful career, a high-paying job, and a seemingly perfect fiancé, Eric. However, beneath her polished exterior lies a deep sense of discontentment. The sudden health scare of her father becomes a catalyst for Chantelle's journey of self-discovery and transformation.
I love Harris's ability to create authentic and multidimensional characters. Chantelle is a relatable protagonist, flawed yet endearing, as she grapples with the pressures of society and her own insecurities. Harris masterfully portrays Chantelle's emotional journey, allowing readers to connect with her struggles, hopes, and dreams.
The book touches upon various themes, including the importance of authenticity, the power of self-reflection, and the role of faith in one's life. Through Chantelle's experiences, readers are reminded of the significance of being true to oneself and finding solace in spirituality. Harris's exploration of these themes adds a sweet sincerity to the narrative, making it more than just a light-hearted chick lit novel.
In terms of writing style, Harris's prose is engaging and accessible, making it easy for readers to immerse themselves in the story. The pacing feels well-balanced, and the plot moves forward while allowing moments of introspection and character development. The dialogue is witty and natural – there are quite a few laugh out loud moments.
"Sweet Bye-Bye" is a charming and thought-provoking chick lit novel that combines elements of romance, self-discovery, and faith. Denise Michelle Harris's talent for creating relatable characters and her skillful storytelling make this book an enjoyable and satisfying read.
January 18, 2023
Thoroughly enjoyed it! A fast and fun read, plus I know plenty of young ladies just like this.
February 15, 2024
Beautifully written, beautiful story & through reading this book, it’s given me guidance on getting back into my faith! Very refreshing read!
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews