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The Pink Palace Series #1
The Pink Palace
They say you can't judge a book by its cover, and I guess you can say the same thing about strippers too. On the surface, Mo Nique is the hottest stripper dancing at The Pink Palace, but on the inside, she's really just Janelle Taylor, a teenage runaway trying to survive in Atlanta. Some people might want to call her a ho, but she's the one your man is spending his whole paycheck on! This isn't the life she envisioned for herself, but it's the path she was forced to take in order to get by.
Nobody sees the real Janelle until she meets Tommy, a sexy hustler from Chicago. At first he's just another trick, but for some reason, she can't stay away from him. Is she really falling in love with a trick? The closer she gets to Tommy, the more she feels like he's keeping something from her. Is having true love too much to ask for a girl like Janelle?
Nobody sees the real Janelle until she meets Tommy, a sexy hustler from Chicago. At first he's just another trick, but for some reason, she can't stay away from him. Is she really falling in love with a trick? The closer she gets to Tommy, the more she feels like he's keeping something from her. Is having true love too much to ask for a girl like Janelle?
- GenresUrban
288 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2008
19 people are currently reading
372 people want to read
About the author
Marlon Mccaulsky
25 books123 followersMarlon McCaulsky is an American author and screenplay writer of Urban Fiction, Romance, and Science Fiction. He is known for his novels about contemporary African-American life.
Marlon McCaulsky was born in Brooklyn, New York and was raised in St. Petersburg FL. Marlon is a graduate of the International Academy of Design and Technology Tampa.
His first major publication was in (2008) The Pink Palace and has gone on to publish over thirteen novels and anthologies. Marlon is a screenplay writer at Creative Genius Films. Creative Genius Films is an American film and television production company. It is responsible for the short films No Time For Love (2013), Annulment (2014) and the feature length film Used To Temporary Happiness (2012). A Sci-Fi thriller Returned (2015). Marlon McCaulsky serves as Screenplay writer/Author with the company.
He lives in Atlanta, Georgia.
Filmography
· Used To Temporary Happiness (2012) (screenplay writer, producer)
· No Time For Love, short film (2013) (screenplay writer)
· Annulment, short film (2014) (screenplay writer)
· Returned (2015) (screenplay writer)
Awards and nomination:
2010 African American Literary Award nominee best anthology "Romance For The Streets"
2014 PEN'Ashe Magazine nominee best novel "Malicious"
2015 GANSPA Award Winner Best Erotica Short Story "Bad Girl"
Marlon McCaulsky was born in Brooklyn, New York and was raised in St. Petersburg FL. Marlon is a graduate of the International Academy of Design and Technology Tampa.
His first major publication was in (2008) The Pink Palace and has gone on to publish over thirteen novels and anthologies. Marlon is a screenplay writer at Creative Genius Films. Creative Genius Films is an American film and television production company. It is responsible for the short films No Time For Love (2013), Annulment (2014) and the feature length film Used To Temporary Happiness (2012). A Sci-Fi thriller Returned (2015). Marlon McCaulsky serves as Screenplay writer/Author with the company.
He lives in Atlanta, Georgia.
Filmography
· Used To Temporary Happiness (2012) (screenplay writer, producer)
· No Time For Love, short film (2013) (screenplay writer)
· Annulment, short film (2014) (screenplay writer)
· Returned (2015) (screenplay writer)
Awards and nomination:
2010 African American Literary Award nominee best anthology "Romance For The Streets"
2014 PEN'Ashe Magazine nominee best novel "Malicious"
2015 GANSPA Award Winner Best Erotica Short Story "Bad Girl"
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
August 31, 2011
You can't help whom you love.
After being violated by her step father James
Janelle Taylor ran away and eventually went to stay with her Aunt Gene. There she connected with cousin Nikki who introduced her to the life of stripping.
Nikki, a seasoned stripper helped Janelle secure a job at The Pink Palace where under her middle name "Mo'Nique" Janelle became one of TPP favorite dancers.
Nikki has been seeing Damien Ruffin the right hand man for Dwayne "King" Smith, who is the top dawg for one of the top crews of the drug empire, the Flip Set Crew.
Tommy Holloway is Damien's trusty sidekick who seems to be the level headed one out of the two.
Mo'Nique and Tommy meet and there is more than an instant attraction. But something is not quite right between them. Mo'Nique and Tommy are not emotionally available due to their pasts, and with a major drug deal about to go down with his boss King; Tommy has to be on point not only to make sure hot head Damien doesn't blow things, but also to make sure his true intentions won't be revealed!
Meanwhile Nikki’s relationship with Tommy is strictly about the Benjamins. As far as she’s concerned he’s just another “John” who likes to spend money on her. But Tommy is unstable and Nikki is about to find out the hard way!
I liked the King and Vanessa angle of the story and due to this author's excellent precursor they loomed large on the pages. But their actual parts in the story were too short and I needed more dynamics between theses two, especially Vanessa who obviously had more going on that met the eye! Also I was perplexed on how it was stated that Janelle "had no family to turn to" then an aunt and cousin show up and it wasn't accurately explained.
I've read two other stories written by author Marlon McCaulsky and see a jewel in the making! Marlon is able to breathe real life and emotions into his characters giving them a strong presence in a story; this in turn captivates the reader because it’s important for the readers to care about the characters.
This particular story while written very well and is a solid debut, lacked originality needed to set it apart from other urban stories. Besides that, I recommend it for urban literary lovers if you're looking for an enjoyable fast read.
Locksie August 28th 2011
ARC Book Club Inc.
Star Rating 4.0****
After being violated by her step father James
Janelle Taylor ran away and eventually went to stay with her Aunt Gene. There she connected with cousin Nikki who introduced her to the life of stripping.
Nikki, a seasoned stripper helped Janelle secure a job at The Pink Palace where under her middle name "Mo'Nique" Janelle became one of TPP favorite dancers.
Nikki has been seeing Damien Ruffin the right hand man for Dwayne "King" Smith, who is the top dawg for one of the top crews of the drug empire, the Flip Set Crew.
Tommy Holloway is Damien's trusty sidekick who seems to be the level headed one out of the two.
Mo'Nique and Tommy meet and there is more than an instant attraction. But something is not quite right between them. Mo'Nique and Tommy are not emotionally available due to their pasts, and with a major drug deal about to go down with his boss King; Tommy has to be on point not only to make sure hot head Damien doesn't blow things, but also to make sure his true intentions won't be revealed!
Meanwhile Nikki’s relationship with Tommy is strictly about the Benjamins. As far as she’s concerned he’s just another “John” who likes to spend money on her. But Tommy is unstable and Nikki is about to find out the hard way!
I liked the King and Vanessa angle of the story and due to this author's excellent precursor they loomed large on the pages. But their actual parts in the story were too short and I needed more dynamics between theses two, especially Vanessa who obviously had more going on that met the eye! Also I was perplexed on how it was stated that Janelle "had no family to turn to" then an aunt and cousin show up and it wasn't accurately explained.
I've read two other stories written by author Marlon McCaulsky and see a jewel in the making! Marlon is able to breathe real life and emotions into his characters giving them a strong presence in a story; this in turn captivates the reader because it’s important for the readers to care about the characters.
This particular story while written very well and is a solid debut, lacked originality needed to set it apart from other urban stories. Besides that, I recommend it for urban literary lovers if you're looking for an enjoyable fast read.
Locksie August 28th 2011
ARC Book Club Inc.
Star Rating 4.0****
September 16, 2014
The Pink Palace by Marlon MacCaulsky
Mo’Nique, a teenage runaway, raped by her stepfather, is in the world pretty much alone after her mother’s death and father’s abandonment. She’s a good girl doing what she can to navigate the world while being homeless. A chance encounter with her cousin, Nikki, lands her in the fast-paced and often toxic world of being a stripper. Then enters Tommy. The fine dope-boy that sees past her thong and right into the heart of a woman-child. After vowing to never give her heart to man, she finds herself in love. But things aren’t as they seem and sometimes the beauty she has can be a curse when ill-meaning men try to exploit her for their personal gain.
Tommy is a thug by day coming through the ranks and an undercover cop by night. The world of law enforcement has almost destroyed his life, as the assignments take up time in his life almost like a selfish lover. His wife, unable to handle the pressures of his job, divorced him. Then he meets Mo’Nique, the super fine stripper who is every guy’s fantasy. But dating her is dangerous for them both. He is forced to decide if what he has found in her is worth putting their lives in danger or if he needs to allow the demands of his job to cause him to give up a chance to rebuild his life and to be happy. That is, if he makes it out of this undercover assignment alive.
Nikki is Mo’Nique’s cousin who took her in and got her into the game. She is a gold digger to the core of her being; selling her body and her soul to the highest bidder. She likes the glamour, loves the money and holds no one’s feelings as valuable or important. Nikki is just out to get hers. It’s just a harmless game of jiving and shucking….or it is?
Damien is second in rank in one of the largest drug trafficking organizations on the east coast. He is a hot tempered, vicious man sent to Atlanta to prepare for a southern takeover. His weakness is power and chocolate skinned girls with big butts….and acting before he thinks. He and his deadly group of thugs take no prisoners and have no problems doing whatever it takes to secure the territory they want. Nikki is his side piece, a stripper who has her hands so deep in his pocket she can touch his shoes. Nikki could care less about his roving eye and illegal dealings as long as the paper and gifts keep flowing. He knew who she was so he had no problems with her dealing with other dudes until he thought she was messing around with his biggest enemy. Will Nikki have to pay with her life for that gross error in judgment?
King leads the drug empire. He has it all: money, businesses to launder his money, a beautiful woman on his arm and all the extra women he can handle. He’s all about his money, but greed makes him cheat the very ones who are on the front lines running things for him. The deal going down will take him into a stratosphere he has only been able to imagine. All he needs is just a little more time, but will things blow up in his face before he can line everything up?
Marlon has the ability to tell a story that keeps a reader on the edge of her seat wanting more. Written in a way where each person is telling their own experiences, it really impressed me how in tuned to the thoughts, feelings and inner workings he was able to zero in on for the female characters. Giving a well-rounded view of urban dope boy living, he has nailed this story and managed to lace real messages of truth throughout. The characters were well-developed, multi-dimensional, and showed a range of human experiences and emotions. This reader felt as if she were as a fly on the wall living out each scene. Although this book has been out for quite some time, I’ve only recently discovered his writings. I am eager to read the next book in the series. As a side note: it’s quite refreshing to read a book that is part of a series that is a complete work, not just issued out in increments.
5 well deserved stars.
Mo’Nique, a teenage runaway, raped by her stepfather, is in the world pretty much alone after her mother’s death and father’s abandonment. She’s a good girl doing what she can to navigate the world while being homeless. A chance encounter with her cousin, Nikki, lands her in the fast-paced and often toxic world of being a stripper. Then enters Tommy. The fine dope-boy that sees past her thong and right into the heart of a woman-child. After vowing to never give her heart to man, she finds herself in love. But things aren’t as they seem and sometimes the beauty she has can be a curse when ill-meaning men try to exploit her for their personal gain.
Tommy is a thug by day coming through the ranks and an undercover cop by night. The world of law enforcement has almost destroyed his life, as the assignments take up time in his life almost like a selfish lover. His wife, unable to handle the pressures of his job, divorced him. Then he meets Mo’Nique, the super fine stripper who is every guy’s fantasy. But dating her is dangerous for them both. He is forced to decide if what he has found in her is worth putting their lives in danger or if he needs to allow the demands of his job to cause him to give up a chance to rebuild his life and to be happy. That is, if he makes it out of this undercover assignment alive.
Nikki is Mo’Nique’s cousin who took her in and got her into the game. She is a gold digger to the core of her being; selling her body and her soul to the highest bidder. She likes the glamour, loves the money and holds no one’s feelings as valuable or important. Nikki is just out to get hers. It’s just a harmless game of jiving and shucking….or it is?
Damien is second in rank in one of the largest drug trafficking organizations on the east coast. He is a hot tempered, vicious man sent to Atlanta to prepare for a southern takeover. His weakness is power and chocolate skinned girls with big butts….and acting before he thinks. He and his deadly group of thugs take no prisoners and have no problems doing whatever it takes to secure the territory they want. Nikki is his side piece, a stripper who has her hands so deep in his pocket she can touch his shoes. Nikki could care less about his roving eye and illegal dealings as long as the paper and gifts keep flowing. He knew who she was so he had no problems with her dealing with other dudes until he thought she was messing around with his biggest enemy. Will Nikki have to pay with her life for that gross error in judgment?
King leads the drug empire. He has it all: money, businesses to launder his money, a beautiful woman on his arm and all the extra women he can handle. He’s all about his money, but greed makes him cheat the very ones who are on the front lines running things for him. The deal going down will take him into a stratosphere he has only been able to imagine. All he needs is just a little more time, but will things blow up in his face before he can line everything up?
Marlon has the ability to tell a story that keeps a reader on the edge of her seat wanting more. Written in a way where each person is telling their own experiences, it really impressed me how in tuned to the thoughts, feelings and inner workings he was able to zero in on for the female characters. Giving a well-rounded view of urban dope boy living, he has nailed this story and managed to lace real messages of truth throughout. The characters were well-developed, multi-dimensional, and showed a range of human experiences and emotions. This reader felt as if she were as a fly on the wall living out each scene. Although this book has been out for quite some time, I’ve only recently discovered his writings. I am eager to read the next book in the series. As a side note: it’s quite refreshing to read a book that is part of a series that is a complete work, not just issued out in increments.
5 well deserved stars.
February 18, 2017
This what player's club (the movie) should've been about
I haven't read a good triple crown book since Flip side of the game. This book was a page turner for real ;
Monique reminded me of Justine Skye (the singer)
Nikki reminded me of Buffy tha body (the dancer)
Penny reminded me of Tocorra
Tommy reminded me of Lance gross
Vanessa reminded me of Gia Casey. I enjoyed this book at first I was kind of skeptical of reading it because of the vague bad reviews. But I liked it and it ended better than I expected I wonder what part 2 is about. I loved Nikki and Monique Povs strippers of all ages should read this book I could see this book being a mini Netflix series
I haven't read a good triple crown book since Flip side of the game. This book was a page turner for real ;
Monique reminded me of Justine Skye (the singer)
Nikki reminded me of Buffy tha body (the dancer)
Penny reminded me of Tocorra
Tommy reminded me of Lance gross
Vanessa reminded me of Gia Casey. I enjoyed this book at first I was kind of skeptical of reading it because of the vague bad reviews. But I liked it and it ended better than I expected I wonder what part 2 is about. I loved Nikki and Monique Povs strippers of all ages should read this book I could see this book being a mini Netflix series
May 28, 2014
Absolutely loved this book. Read this book for the first time five years ago, loved it then and love it still. I love how Mr. Marlon McCaulsky developed the characters throughout the book so that if felt like you were there with them at every up and every down. This book does an excellent job showing that no matter what walk of life you come from, there's somebody for everybody, happiness is possible, fast money isn't always good money and sometimes you have to hit rock bottom before you realize that a change is necessary.
April 15, 2016
What a wonderful book! From beginning to end I could not put this book down! And even though there is a part 2, Part one was a totally satisfying read! One my way to find part 2….Great job Marlon Mccaulsky!
February 17, 2010
Love love love this book!!!!!
September 8, 2011
I enjoyed this book...Its been a while since I read this...but I remember this being one of my favorite books in "The Pink Palace" series...
January 17, 2012
This book was so good I couldnt put it down, Def a page turner!
August 11, 2009
I knew this was a Good Book when I was standing in line at the Section 8 Office and another lady on line started gushing about how great it was. I really knew this was a good book when my daughter read it in three days and couldn’t stop Cheezin. But I really didn’t know How Good It Was. I mean it has EVERYTHING...
Drama.
Pathos.
Action.
Plot twists.
Comic twists.
And Five Stars.
YES. There are other Five Star Hood Writers besides Mink and Diamond, and McCaulsky is one of them. The Pink Palace is a well crafted book jam packed with Edge Of Your Seat action and characters that have more secrets than the deodorant aisle. It will leave you breathless.
Mo’Nique and her cousin Nikki strip at the Pink Palace. Mo’ got there the way too many girls do: running from a sexually abusive home life. It’s not clear how or why Nikki started stripping but one thing’s for sure: A Trick is Just A Trick to her, and Nikki will go where the money is. That’s why she left Dre: cause Damien, a New Playa on the scene who’s Straight Outta Harlem, has More Money and More Prestige than Dre does.
Guess Nikki never heard of More Money More Problems, huh?
Damien, Flip Set’s second in command, has been sent down to ATL by its ruthless leader, King. One of Damien’s tasks is to break in the new guy, Tommy, who’s Down For The Cause actions and quick thinking have already made him an invaluable member of the team. Since Damien is “dating” Nikki, and Nikki has this cousin Mo’, it seems natural to hook Mo’ up with Tommy. Only: Mo and Tommy violate the rules of the game. See, Tommy must’ve forgotten that you Can’t Turn A Ho Into A Housewife, and now he’s In Love With A Stripper. As for Mo’…well, what stripper worth her salt would Fall For A Trick anyway ???
But the Real Problem is:
None of these people are who they seem to be .
McCaulsky is a gifted writer who has managed to breathe New Life into a tired and shopworn formula by creating complex, three dimensional characters, most of whom the reader grows to love quickly. Each character tells his own story via First Person POV, and McCaulsky manages to make every character’s voice ring true. They say you’ve Done It Right when you can close your eyes and tell which character is talking, and I only had to go back once to check whose chapter I was reading. For a book with four separate POV’s that’s Saying Something. The story was not only well written, but well edited, with great character development. The Hood Speak was On Point, with just enough to lend authenticity to the story but not so much as to weigh it down or cause you to go to UrbanDictionary.com to find out what the hall they were talking about. And the plot twists never veered off into Get Serious territory, a Deal Breaker for any book IMHO. McCaulsky is witty too: (possibly) all the chapter are named after popular songs. Overall, this was an exciting, fast paced read that has me longing for the sequel.
February 25, 2009
Can you turn a hoe in to a housewife???
This book was a pleasure for me to read. I was not sure if I could really care for a book based on a stripper. I love the fact it’s written in first person, as I am a fan of first person novels. I also love the fact that each chapter was written in first person by a different character. This gave me a chance to get into each character’s head.
We meet Janelle Mo’Nigue Taylor the hottest stripper to hit the Pink Palace. It’s not her dream job but it pays the bills and then some. Mo’Nigue invasions something else but cant get out. She looks at men as tricks that is until she meets Tommy Holloway a hustler working his was up the ranks. Both having different thoughts about each other but their budding love affair is one to be admired. As time goes on Mo’Nigue starts to feel he not giving his all and fears he holding something back. As she pries deeper along wondering how she could be falling for a trick and wondering why Tommy is trying to turn a hoe into a housewife. This makes for some interesting reading and some different turn of events. You will have to read to see what I am talking about.
You always hear if this was a movie who would be the main characters I have to say this put me in mind of the players ball movie. While this story is TOTALLY different then the movie those playing in the movie came to mind. For Tommy I thought of Omar Epps for those who read the book should have idea of where I am going with this.
I look forward to reading more from Mr. McCaulsky as he held my attention and had me wanting to read more. I just had to get to this end of the book and see how this was gonna turn out and I was not disappointed. I also like the fact that I used to live in Atlanta, GA so I was familiar with the places and street names.
SiStar Tea
ARC Book Club Inc.
5 star rating
This book was a pleasure for me to read. I was not sure if I could really care for a book based on a stripper. I love the fact it’s written in first person, as I am a fan of first person novels. I also love the fact that each chapter was written in first person by a different character. This gave me a chance to get into each character’s head.
We meet Janelle Mo’Nigue Taylor the hottest stripper to hit the Pink Palace. It’s not her dream job but it pays the bills and then some. Mo’Nigue invasions something else but cant get out. She looks at men as tricks that is until she meets Tommy Holloway a hustler working his was up the ranks. Both having different thoughts about each other but their budding love affair is one to be admired. As time goes on Mo’Nigue starts to feel he not giving his all and fears he holding something back. As she pries deeper along wondering how she could be falling for a trick and wondering why Tommy is trying to turn a hoe into a housewife. This makes for some interesting reading and some different turn of events. You will have to read to see what I am talking about.
You always hear if this was a movie who would be the main characters I have to say this put me in mind of the players ball movie. While this story is TOTALLY different then the movie those playing in the movie came to mind. For Tommy I thought of Omar Epps for those who read the book should have idea of where I am going with this.
I look forward to reading more from Mr. McCaulsky as he held my attention and had me wanting to read more. I just had to get to this end of the book and see how this was gonna turn out and I was not disappointed. I also like the fact that I used to live in Atlanta, GA so I was familiar with the places and street names.
SiStar Tea
ARC Book Club Inc.
5 star rating
December 15, 2009
This wasn't a blow my mind out type of book it was a ok read. It did keep me wanting to find out whats going to happen next.
First time reading anything by this author.
Janelle aka Mo'Nique she ran away from home after her what her step dad did to her. That lead her into her cousin Nikki's arms and Nikki took her end showing her the ropes of being a stripper at the Pink Palace.
Nikki also was involved with 2 drug dealers that had beef with each other. Damien and Dre.
Nikki guy Damien set up for his guy Tommy to hook up with Mo'Nique that lead them into having feels for each other.
But, Tommy keeping secrets from everyone he knowns.
Damien wants to be the main man and get King his boss out the way so he can shine instead of King.
Tommy always trying to get Damien to think things though before hand but, Damien don't care.
Mo'Nique decides to change her life around and stop stripping and get her GED, job and be with Tommy but, then Tommy reveals some things that sends Mo'Nique running away from him.
Then some sick things happens to Nikki that gets her to change her lifestyle all the way. She do a complete 180 turn around.
It was alright book. I am wishing that the revenge was much much sweeter lol Well that's just me.
But, great read. Would like to read more by this author.
First time reading anything by this author.
Janelle aka Mo'Nique she ran away from home after her what her step dad did to her. That lead her into her cousin Nikki's arms and Nikki took her end showing her the ropes of being a stripper at the Pink Palace.
Nikki also was involved with 2 drug dealers that had beef with each other. Damien and Dre.
Nikki guy Damien set up for his guy Tommy to hook up with Mo'Nique that lead them into having feels for each other.
But, Tommy keeping secrets from everyone he knowns.
Damien wants to be the main man and get King his boss out the way so he can shine instead of King.
Tommy always trying to get Damien to think things though before hand but, Damien don't care.
Mo'Nique decides to change her life around and stop stripping and get her GED, job and be with Tommy but, then Tommy reveals some things that sends Mo'Nique running away from him.
Then some sick things happens to Nikki that gets her to change her lifestyle all the way. She do a complete 180 turn around.
It was alright book. I am wishing that the revenge was much much sweeter lol Well that's just me.
But, great read. Would like to read more by this author.
May 4, 2011
I really enjoyed this book. It was a page turner for sure. I enjoyed the characters, the plot, the reality. Marlon you hit a homerun with this one homie. I feel honored to know you. Keep up the good work. You have been blessed with a talent. I look forward to the sequel and your other works. God bless.
Read
February 2, 2009omg this book looks like if is going to be good
July 12, 2009
Wow! This was a good Hood Drama Love Story! I liked it. It made my heart feel good at the end. This showed that there is hope for anyone! Alrighty Marlon!!
July 28, 2009
This was a great book. I finished it in about a week. I loved the storyline. I did not expect a happy ending, but glad it ended that way. Great characters! Great book!
December 23, 2009
Can I holla fire already....yep... Fire baby...
The Pink Palace is smoking hot ...get this joint...U will luv it yo...
The Pink Palace is smoking hot ...get this joint...U will luv it yo...
November 21, 2010
Excellent read!!! Thanks Marlon, waiting on PP2..
October 26, 2011
This book was a good read. It's about a girl that starts stripping in the pink palace and gets caught up in a web of lies, games, and murder.
September 20, 2015
This book was AWESOME. A really good read. It took me only 1 day to finish it!!
February 12, 2015
very very good. it was entertaining and relatable to say the very least.
I did not find this boring at all.
I did not find this boring at all.
January 27, 2016
Great read....I'm excited to read part ll. It was definitely a page turner.
September 9, 2010
THIS BOOK IS A 5 STAR BOOK!
February 15, 2012
Good read on to nun 2
July 6, 2025
💥 Raw. 💋 Gritty. 💡 Surprisingly emotional
Marlon McCaulsky’s The Pink Palace is a gritty, emotionally layered ride into Atlanta’s underground world of strip clubs, survival, and second chances. The audiobook hits hard from the jump, pulling listeners into the complicated world of Mo Nique—stage name for Janelle Taylor, a runaway who’s using the pole to pay for the life she never asked for.
What makes this story stand out is how McCaulsky peels back the layers. Janelle isn’t just a dancer—she’s smart, wounded, and constantly wrestling with the difference between the image she sells and the woman she’s trying to hold on to. The narration brings her voice to life beautifully—tough but vulnerable, guarded yet yearning.
Then enters Tommy—a smooth-talking hustler from Chicago who might be more than just another customer. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the tension between trust and suspicion keeps the plot moving at a steady pace. Just when you think it’s about to be a typical love story, secrets threaten to shatter the fragile reality Janelle is building.
The writing is bold and unfiltered, and the audiobook format intensifies the emotion.
Samantha Moon voice narration enhances the depth of the story, capturing Janelle’s struggles and aspirations beautifully. Some scenes are heavy with grit, others laced with unexpected warmth and humor. If you’re looking for sugarcoated romance, this isn’t it. But if you want a story with heart, hustle, and hard choices, The Pink Palace delivers.
Final Verdict:
🎙️Narration = 🔥
Story = 💣
The Pink Palace is more than a stripper’s tale—it’s a story about survival, love, and the masks we wear.
📚 Urban fiction fans, this one’s for you!
Marlon McCaulsky’s The Pink Palace is a gritty, emotionally layered ride into Atlanta’s underground world of strip clubs, survival, and second chances. The audiobook hits hard from the jump, pulling listeners into the complicated world of Mo Nique—stage name for Janelle Taylor, a runaway who’s using the pole to pay for the life she never asked for.
What makes this story stand out is how McCaulsky peels back the layers. Janelle isn’t just a dancer—she’s smart, wounded, and constantly wrestling with the difference between the image she sells and the woman she’s trying to hold on to. The narration brings her voice to life beautifully—tough but vulnerable, guarded yet yearning.
Then enters Tommy—a smooth-talking hustler from Chicago who might be more than just another customer. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the tension between trust and suspicion keeps the plot moving at a steady pace. Just when you think it’s about to be a typical love story, secrets threaten to shatter the fragile reality Janelle is building.
The writing is bold and unfiltered, and the audiobook format intensifies the emotion.
Samantha Moon voice narration enhances the depth of the story, capturing Janelle’s struggles and aspirations beautifully. Some scenes are heavy with grit, others laced with unexpected warmth and humor. If you’re looking for sugarcoated romance, this isn’t it. But if you want a story with heart, hustle, and hard choices, The Pink Palace delivers.
Final Verdict:
🎙️Narration = 🔥
Story = 💣
The Pink Palace is more than a stripper’s tale—it’s a story about survival, love, and the masks we wear.
📚 Urban fiction fans, this one’s for you!
February 19, 2019
i can't deny, I did do a lot of skipping over when it came to the men and all their yada yada yada. i don't know why i always end up with these same stories of drug dealers, rape trauma, and saving damsels in distress tales but it seems like that's the only topic all urban authors know smh. idk i just wanted it to be something different. sure the book is about the hard life of a stripper, but why does the book have to be so unrealistic?
March 24, 2018
ADDICTING! So good! Once I started I couldn't put it down, literally! I just couldn't stop reading it until I finished. I would definitely recommend to anyone who Urban books. This book was very exciting with a few plot twists you would ve never expected!
March 23, 2021
This book had a good plot twist. In the end I am glad Nikki and Monique were able to get their happy ending, but they went through a lot to get to that point.
May 12, 2024
I think it was a really cute book. The drama was super unrealistic but that’s how I like my urban fiction anyway lol
September 20, 2024
It was just ok. The acting was horrible and distracted from the book.
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