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It's Complicated
Venni's cryptic past is filled with secrets. Now that the beautiful executive is trying to settle down with the man of her dreams, she decides to come clean. She admits to a past filled with lies, heartbreak and scandal. But she soon learns that some secrets are best left buried.Once the skeletons are out, all hell breaks loose. In the midst of the drama, Venni's long-time ally becomes her greatest adversary and her most-hated adversary surprisingly becomes her ally. When it's all said and done, egos and feelings are tattered and family ties are severed. Will Venni regret coming clean?It's Complicated is a page-turner that reaffirms we all have a backstory and perfection on the surface isn't always what it seems.
218 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 23, 2014
About the author
Portia A. Cosby
6 books25 followersPortia A. Cosby is a novelist,
poet, and screenwriter whose writing has left an impact on everyone who has come across it. Her distinct style separates her from most as she addresses controversial issues and relates them to the African-American community.
"My messages are universal. I don't write to exclude any age group or race. I just write from the heart and expose topics that (African-Americans) normally don't associate with ourselves."
With familiar characters and drama packed storylines, her down-to-earth approach has proved to be reader-friendly and well received. She first obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology/Athletic Training from Indiana University. After revisiting an old screenplay that she wrote in the ninth grade, she decided to fully embrace her passion for writing and turned Too Little, Too Late into a novel. Not abandoning the movie idea, she attended Full Sail Real World Education in Winter Park, Florida to learn the ins and outs of the film industry so that she can one day make her vision come to life. She earned an Associate of Science degree in Film and Video Production. "Ideally and eventually, I would like to leave the sports medicine world and write full-time. I have so many stories to share and can't wait to devote all of my time to writing novels and screenplays."
A native of Indianapolis, Indiana, Portia divides her time between the metro areas of Pittsburgh and Atlanta. She is a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and enjoys playing with her daughter, watching movies, and listening to music in her spare time. She proudly holds a spot on Terry McMillan's list of Writers Worth Reading, and is currently working on her fifth novel.
poet, and screenwriter whose writing has left an impact on everyone who has come across it. Her distinct style separates her from most as she addresses controversial issues and relates them to the African-American community.
"My messages are universal. I don't write to exclude any age group or race. I just write from the heart and expose topics that (African-Americans) normally don't associate with ourselves."
With familiar characters and drama packed storylines, her down-to-earth approach has proved to be reader-friendly and well received. She first obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology/Athletic Training from Indiana University. After revisiting an old screenplay that she wrote in the ninth grade, she decided to fully embrace her passion for writing and turned Too Little, Too Late into a novel. Not abandoning the movie idea, she attended Full Sail Real World Education in Winter Park, Florida to learn the ins and outs of the film industry so that she can one day make her vision come to life. She earned an Associate of Science degree in Film and Video Production. "Ideally and eventually, I would like to leave the sports medicine world and write full-time. I have so many stories to share and can't wait to devote all of my time to writing novels and screenplays."
A native of Indianapolis, Indiana, Portia divides her time between the metro areas of Pittsburgh and Atlanta. She is a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. and enjoys playing with her daughter, watching movies, and listening to music in her spare time. She proudly holds a spot on Terry McMillan's list of Writers Worth Reading, and is currently working on her fifth novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
August 2, 2014
Venni is the keeper of secrets. She is ready to move on in her life but to do so she must reveal who she is, She must learn to forgive herself and others but most importantly she must learn to love herself. The story starts off with Venni visiting a therapist and there the journey of revelations and forgiveness begins. She's not your classic broken woman. She thrives in life but her secrets prevents her from loving herself and others. As the layers are exposed you see her growth, you root for her and for..................
This is the first book I read from this writer and will not be my last. This book was beautifully written.
This is the first book I read from this writer and will not be my last. This book was beautifully written.
September 1, 2014
Thank you Sophie Sealy for recommending It's Complicated. It is probably one of the most unforgettable and powerful books I've read this year. There is a special place in hell for those disgusting vile men who prey on and exploit young girls like Venni. I felt so bad for Vance who ends up bearing the brunt of the fall-out when all of those terrible secrets are revealed. Lawrence has to be the best book boyfriend ever as he anchored Venni as those waves from her past threatened to overwhelm and ultimately drown her. Dr. Cox is hilarious and so brilliant as she takes both Vinni and Vance, by the hand to lead them to the future they so richly deserve. Can't stop thinking about this awesome story!
August 31, 2014
AWESOME read!!! I had an extremely difficult time pulling myself away from this book.
October 17, 2014
A Great Book- BRAB Online Book Club
This is my first time reading this author's work but it certainly won't be the last. The title of the book IT'S COMPLICATED adequately describes the characters and the context.
Venita Miles has lived a tough, complicated life especially since her mother died when she was very young. Her life led to destructive behavior, secrets and lies. Nevertheless she was able to put all that behind her and live a seemingly productive life.
Lawrence was considered her friend until they crossed that threshold into a more intimate relationship. He was there for her through her revelations about her past, and encouraged her to see a therapist.
Venni worked through her demons, but not without controversy, deceit and disloyalty from her sister. The author did a great job of weaving a finely crafted story, with all the secondary characters who played a prominent role in the story. I really enjoyed the development of each character and the way the story flowed.
This is my first time reading this author's work but it certainly won't be the last. The title of the book IT'S COMPLICATED adequately describes the characters and the context.
Venita Miles has lived a tough, complicated life especially since her mother died when she was very young. Her life led to destructive behavior, secrets and lies. Nevertheless she was able to put all that behind her and live a seemingly productive life.
Lawrence was considered her friend until they crossed that threshold into a more intimate relationship. He was there for her through her revelations about her past, and encouraged her to see a therapist.
Venni worked through her demons, but not without controversy, deceit and disloyalty from her sister. The author did a great job of weaving a finely crafted story, with all the secondary characters who played a prominent role in the story. I really enjoyed the development of each character and the way the story flowed.
October 28, 2014
When I finished this book, I stood up and applauded! This book was very well written with a story...a dark story that takes you in from the beginning and doesn't let you go until the very end. I loved that the book was positive about therapy and the outcome of it. The characters were believable and the story built consistently to a crescendo that made me scream at 3:50 in the morning! What a ride!
August 4, 2014
I don't want to spoil it for anyone but I would give this book more stars if Goodreads allowed it. The book was expertly written. There were a few scenes where I had to ask is she peeking in my window or hanging out in my brain. I loved the characters she writes about real women with real issues. Loved it. There is also an accompanying playlist that you can grab from the authors Facebook page.
January 27, 2015
5 STAR READ!! Portia Cosby did an Awesome job penning this page turner. Venni Miles struggles daily, her life full of hurt & entangled in a web of lies. She's ready for a change but she's bound by fear. Will she learn the power of forgiveness and move on to a live a better life or will she stay stuck in her past, holding on to the lies? It's Complicated.....a must read
August 10, 2014
OMG, this was definitely a page turner. It took me only six hours to read. Venni is definitely a shero because she has overcome so much and still remained strong and on her feet. I am eagerly anticipating the next Portia Cosby novel.
January 27, 2015
Best title for a must-read book
Nothing is conventional in this novel.
Well written, truly a gifted author.
Everyone has secrets and lies that eventually catch up to them. Preparing to be true to yourself and forthright in honesty will get you to a happier place.
Nothing is conventional in this novel.
Well written, truly a gifted author.
Everyone has secrets and lies that eventually catch up to them. Preparing to be true to yourself and forthright in honesty will get you to a happier place.
May 23, 2018
Just...wow
Who are you? The newest member of Portia’s fan club
What are you? Extremely Satisfied.
When are you? May 20, 2018.
Where are you? Following Portia Cosby on Amazon.
Why are you? Because it was just that good.
I finished this book 2 days ago and I’m STILL thinking about it. First read by this author and I feel like a stumbled upon jewel. This was different, intriguing, well written, and it just won’t let me go. Dr. Cox, Venni, Vance, and Lawerence it was a pleasure meeting you and joining you on this journey! Well done Ms. Portia Cosby. Great read.
Who are you? The newest member of Portia’s fan club
What are you? Extremely Satisfied.
When are you? May 20, 2018.
Where are you? Following Portia Cosby on Amazon.
Why are you? Because it was just that good.
I finished this book 2 days ago and I’m STILL thinking about it. First read by this author and I feel like a stumbled upon jewel. This was different, intriguing, well written, and it just won’t let me go. Dr. Cox, Venni, Vance, and Lawerence it was a pleasure meeting you and joining you on this journey! Well done Ms. Portia Cosby. Great read.
May 2, 2015
Loved it
I don't remember the last time a book made me cry, but I dropped tears twice. Interesting story with a complex protagonist that was absolutely exasperating at times but I still wanted her to win. If I had to give it one criticism, it is written in third person omniscient. That made it a difficult start because I was not expecting it, but I thoroughly enjoyed the ride. I will definitely check out more titles from this author.
I don't remember the last time a book made me cry, but I dropped tears twice. Interesting story with a complex protagonist that was absolutely exasperating at times but I still wanted her to win. If I had to give it one criticism, it is written in third person omniscient. That made it a difficult start because I was not expecting it, but I thoroughly enjoyed the ride. I will definitely check out more titles from this author.
September 23, 2017
Wonderful!
I really love this book! It made my heart race, made me giggle AND laugh out loud, made me cry, and most of all it allowed me to see traces of my past without regret because it gave me another reason to hope for my future "happy place." Loved it all! Thanks to Ms. Portia for sharing her gift.
I really love this book! It made my heart race, made me giggle AND laugh out loud, made me cry, and most of all it allowed me to see traces of my past without regret because it gave me another reason to hope for my future "happy place." Loved it all! Thanks to Ms. Portia for sharing her gift.
August 16, 2017
A great read.
October 27, 2017
Great story with complex issues which we see every day. Issues were treated as if the characters were real people. Waiting on the next book lady.
January 5, 2018
Amazing
This story had me vexed a few times. I liked the hero and the heroine. But my favorite was the counselor. The story was very deep. A nice read. Wow!
This story had me vexed a few times. I liked the hero and the heroine. But my favorite was the counselor. The story was very deep. A nice read. Wow!
December 14, 2014
A Challenge
In LESSON LEARNED: IT IS WHAT IT IS, readers fell in love with Venni's character and demanded more. If you're a fan of Portia A. Cosby, you've been patiently waiting or low-key stalking her to find out when we'd get the chance to delve into Venni's world. With the release of IT'S COMPLICATED, readers finally get to peek behind the curtain.
Venni is different from most women. While we all have a past, her past is the reason she denies herself love, or the belief that she'll ever have love. Thankfully, Lawrence is peeling away the exterior and proving slowly but surely she is worthy of love.
Without any room to continue to deny it, Venni is head over heels in love with Lawrence. There's only one problem. Although she's purged her soul to him and cleaned out all of her secrets and is seeking help from a professional, there's one major secret that she left tucked away. This secret will not only affect her but everyone she loves. Can she continue on her path of self-forgiveness, or will she be permanently sidelined by this secret?
Cosby has an undeniable uniqueness: she builds witty, engaging characters that you long to get to know better. Also, Cosby has a way with time. She allows you to recall the days of yesteryear while still living in present day. Sadly, Cosby is truly a talent being overlooked.
Reviewed by: Crystal
In LESSON LEARNED: IT IS WHAT IT IS, readers fell in love with Venni's character and demanded more. If you're a fan of Portia A. Cosby, you've been patiently waiting or low-key stalking her to find out when we'd get the chance to delve into Venni's world. With the release of IT'S COMPLICATED, readers finally get to peek behind the curtain.
Venni is different from most women. While we all have a past, her past is the reason she denies herself love, or the belief that she'll ever have love. Thankfully, Lawrence is peeling away the exterior and proving slowly but surely she is worthy of love.
Without any room to continue to deny it, Venni is head over heels in love with Lawrence. There's only one problem. Although she's purged her soul to him and cleaned out all of her secrets and is seeking help from a professional, there's one major secret that she left tucked away. This secret will not only affect her but everyone she loves. Can she continue on her path of self-forgiveness, or will she be permanently sidelined by this secret?
Cosby has an undeniable uniqueness: she builds witty, engaging characters that you long to get to know better. Also, Cosby has a way with time. She allows you to recall the days of yesteryear while still living in present day. Sadly, Cosby is truly a talent being overlooked.
Reviewed by: Crystal
November 22, 2015
I'm so glad I saw someone on Facebook post this book because I had never read anything by this Author. This was one of the most developed stories I've read in a very long time. Venni, a beautiful top level executive seemingly has it all. A great paying job, a nice house and car, a loving boyfriend who wants to marry her, and an awesome relationship with her nephew Vance. While her boyfriend Lawrence knows everything about her.even the dirty secrets she was ashamed of, there is one more thing left to tell that involved her sister Tangela. This secret has the capacity to turn her world upside down and make her lose the only man she's ever loved...on top of that Tangela is willing to cut her sister completely away from her life when she threatens to reveal this secret once and for all. This book is amazing tale of how secrets can hold a person captive and how love conquers all. A MUST READ!
May 23, 2016
‘Tis my first read by this author (Portia A. Cosby). And no, there’s no relationship to “Bill.” That’s my understanding, anyway. I see she is not a novice author. This one has several crafted books under her wing. Okay, belt!
Calling all romance lovers, if you’ve looking to read a romance novel, this may be a choice. Be aware, it does have quite a bit of romance . . . and one that features sexuality in nature.
Readers should have no difficulty following the story. I would though have liked to seen/read more development of characterization, scenes, and editing, into the story. Overall, the ending added a little twist.
Advice: Read it for yourself and formulate your own conclusions!
Calling all romance lovers, if you’ve looking to read a romance novel, this may be a choice. Be aware, it does have quite a bit of romance . . . and one that features sexuality in nature.
Readers should have no difficulty following the story. I would though have liked to seen/read more development of characterization, scenes, and editing, into the story. Overall, the ending added a little twist.
Advice: Read it for yourself and formulate your own conclusions!
July 23, 2014
Very captivating and intricate story. There is a lot of back story that isn't detailed, but Venni's exceptional grown up life seems the most in need of visiting and making right.
On another note, the family conflict that developed between the sisters completely threw me. The animosity that was apparent all the way to the end of the book, although fostered by a stupid, selfish husband, seemed to have come out of nowhere.
At one point I was a bit confused by why the story started in 2007, but I figured out that there's gonna be more. Which is a relief, as my curiosity has been piqued!
Definitely a good read!
On another note, the family conflict that developed between the sisters completely threw me. The animosity that was apparent all the way to the end of the book, although fostered by a stupid, selfish husband, seemed to have come out of nowhere.
At one point I was a bit confused by why the story started in 2007, but I figured out that there's gonna be more. Which is a relief, as my curiosity has been piqued!
Definitely a good read!
July 15, 2014
A wound can only heal when the bandage comes off. Sometimes we peel them off slowly, some times we yank them off to get it over with. Sometimes, we simply let them fall off in their own time. The bandage covering Venni's past is hanging on by a thread and as much as she wants to yank it off and let the healing begin, she has to slowly peel it off. The hurt experienced by the peeling off of the bandages and the beautiful healing that took place during and after the peel is a wonderfully crafted story that makes you think about your own bandages and wounds.
November 2, 2014
Twists and turns
Often we here the cliche that forgiveness is not for the other person but yourself. This never reigned more true til you read Venni's story. I think it's a testament to yourself when you are able to let go past hurts. I like to believe through everyone's troubled past redemption is possible through love and forgiveness. once you own your past it cannot keep you in bondage. Read it's Complicated, as you will find yourself entangled in a web that will surprise you. Portia, has a GEM on her hands with this one. Cinema ready
Often we here the cliche that forgiveness is not for the other person but yourself. This never reigned more true til you read Venni's story. I think it's a testament to yourself when you are able to let go past hurts. I like to believe through everyone's troubled past redemption is possible through love and forgiveness. once you own your past it cannot keep you in bondage. Read it's Complicated, as you will find yourself entangled in a web that will surprise you. Portia, has a GEM on her hands with this one. Cinema ready
February 4, 2015
Good read with entertaining twist
This particular author was selected by a member of my book club as our book for the month because the title intrigued her and it was an author we had not explored. Overall, members were satisfied with the character development and plot. There were no thought provoking social issues for us to ponder or debate. No hotly contested dilemmas that left us confused and tempted to contact 's. Cosby directly for clarification. It was simply a good general fiction book you can read in a day. No pressure.
This particular author was selected by a member of my book club as our book for the month because the title intrigued her and it was an author we had not explored. Overall, members were satisfied with the character development and plot. There were no thought provoking social issues for us to ponder or debate. No hotly contested dilemmas that left us confused and tempted to contact 's. Cosby directly for clarification. It was simply a good general fiction book you can read in a day. No pressure.
October 1, 2014
Venni is an emotionally broke, successful woman that has had a colorful childhood. Her mother died of cancer and her father wants nothing to do with her. The two constant things in her life are get nephew Vance and get trainer/friend. After going to therapy, all secrets are revealed and some relationships are restored.
This is my first book by the author and I enjoyed it. It was different than what I'm used to reading, and I have recommended it to some of my fellow reading buddies.
This is my first book by the author and I enjoyed it. It was different than what I'm used to reading, and I have recommended it to some of my fellow reading buddies.
February 21, 2015
The title says it all
I must say this was an excellent book to read I love how it started and the twist and turns and how it kept my attention and made me not want to put it down a definite page turner and the storyline was excellent written this author took the time and effort to create a masterpiece I highly recommend this book to anyone that like to read and I love the ending very good.
I must say this was an excellent book to read I love how it started and the twist and turns and how it kept my attention and made me not want to put it down a definite page turner and the storyline was excellent written this author took the time and effort to create a masterpiece I highly recommend this book to anyone that like to read and I love the ending very good.
August 16, 2015
Venni had a past that was haunting her and not letting her enjoy her life. Venni had several demons from her past. In order to move forward she needed to address the demons. Venni began to see a therapist to help her face her demons. Venni is afraid to love due to the fear of losing the person. Awesome story!!!!
October 9, 2015
This was a good book. The first I've read by this author. Venni Miles has a secret and after 16 years she is ready to come clean to herself, boyfriend and nephew. There was a real story with some drama but not over the top unbelievable stuff some authors write for shock value. I'm not going to include any spoilers. I'm going to recommend this book to my friends.
October 22, 2014
This was a great page turner, I really enjoyed this book very much. Lies can tear a family apart, it is true your past will never leave you but you can find a way to overcome it and live a happy life.
October 28, 2014
Living a lie
Will your past prevent your future? Everyone has secrets and will live their lives accordingly. Venni faces a challenge...will she fight or flee. Learn about how bad choices can impact your life.
Will your past prevent your future? Everyone has secrets and will live their lives accordingly. Venni faces a challenge...will she fight or flee. Learn about how bad choices can impact your life.
July 15, 2015
I'm not good at giving synopses of books, but I will say that it kept me intrigued and I couldn't wait to finish. Now I'm sad because I'm finished. It left me longing for more of Tangela's (the sister) story.
Great Read!
Great Read!
August 28, 2014
OUTSTANDING
Such a touching and emotional story. Loved Lawrence...what a man! Vinnie didn't let her past define her. A must read
Such a touching and emotional story. Loved Lawrence...what a man! Vinnie didn't let her past define her. A must read
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews