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Midnight #3
A Moment of Silence
In her next heart-pounding novel of passion, danger, temptation, and adventure, New York Times bestselling author Sister Souljah returns to the story of Midnight.
Handsome, young, Muslim, and married to two women living in one house along with his mother, Umma, and sister, Naja: can Midnight manage? He is surrounded by Americans who don't share or understand his faith or culture, and adults who are offended by his maturity, intelligence, or his natural ability to make his hard work turn into real money. He is calm, confident, and cool, Ninja-trained and powerful, but one moment of rage throws this Brooklyn youth into a dark world of dirty police, gangs, guns, drugs, prisons, and prisoners. Everything he ever believed, every dollar he ever earned, and all of the women he ever loved—including his mother—are at risk.
Will his manhood be taken, broken, or altered? Can he maintain his faith among the heathens? Outnumbered, overruled, and deeply envied—how can he possibly survive? Will the streets convert him? What can he keep? What must he lose?
In this heart-pounding adventure, thriller, and intense narrative, New York Times bestselling author Sister Souljah has penned her most passionate and engrossing novel to date. Raw and uncompromising, her storytelling highlights and ignites the ongoing struggle of young men worldwide, to more than survive, but to live strong, to earn, to have the right to love and protect their families, to receive justice, and to be free.
Handsome, young, Muslim, and married to two women living in one house along with his mother, Umma, and sister, Naja: can Midnight manage? He is surrounded by Americans who don't share or understand his faith or culture, and adults who are offended by his maturity, intelligence, or his natural ability to make his hard work turn into real money. He is calm, confident, and cool, Ninja-trained and powerful, but one moment of rage throws this Brooklyn youth into a dark world of dirty police, gangs, guns, drugs, prisons, and prisoners. Everything he ever believed, every dollar he ever earned, and all of the women he ever loved—including his mother—are at risk.
Will his manhood be taken, broken, or altered? Can he maintain his faith among the heathens? Outnumbered, overruled, and deeply envied—how can he possibly survive? Will the streets convert him? What can he keep? What must he lose?
In this heart-pounding adventure, thriller, and intense narrative, New York Times bestselling author Sister Souljah has penned her most passionate and engrossing novel to date. Raw and uncompromising, her storytelling highlights and ignites the ongoing struggle of young men worldwide, to more than survive, but to live strong, to earn, to have the right to love and protect their families, to receive justice, and to be free.
545 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 10, 2015
543 people are currently reading
3602 people want to read
About the author
Sister Souljah
23 books2,863 followersSister Souljah (born Lisa Williamson) was born in 1964 in New York City. She attended Cornell University's advanced placement summer program and Spain's University of Salamanca study-abroad program. She later majored in American history and African studies at Rutgers University. Her travels and lectures have taken her all over America, Europe, and Africa. In the mid-1980s, she founded, in cooperation with the United Church of Christ, the African Youth Survival Camp, located in Enfield, North Carolina, for children of homeless families. In 1992, her rap album, 360 Degrees of Power, and video, "Slavery's Back in Effect," catapulted her to national attention. She lives in New York with her husband and son.
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Want to read
March 19, 2015GAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I've been waiting so freaking long to have Midnight back in my life!!!!
He really is my very 1st fictional love!!!!
I've been waiting so freaking long to have Midnight back in my life!!!!
He really is my very 1st fictional love!!!!
October 6, 2015
This is a D*mn good read. Get your heart, mind, and soul, ready for this read!!!!
You will not regret it. Also, keep a notebook handy because the gems of wisdom are serious.
Purchase this for yourself, and a few friends.
This book does not disappoint.
You will not regret it. Also, keep a notebook handy because the gems of wisdom are serious.
Purchase this for yourself, and a few friends.
This book does not disappoint.
November 15, 2015
I think this is the best book so far in the Midnight series. Souljah has seemingly toned down some of the unbelievable antics and triumphs of Midnight. Although he is still young and wise beyond his years, readers should now be comfortable with his precociousness. He is still a devout Muslim and Islam is consistently held up as superior to Christianity, at least in the eyes of young Midnight. So, along with the usual interaction with sister, mom and wives including erotic moments, we are introduced to Chiasa's(the second wife)Black side of the family in NY. Some interesting dynamics are initiated with the interplay between Midnight and his in-laws. The little twist that is created by this plotting will obviously lead to more installments of Midnight, with the ending creating an opening to veer in many different directions.
There are a lot of reflections, looking back on the first two episodes in this series; and so the current and present tense flow doesn't account for more than half of the book which clocks in at a hefty 544 pages. While some of the flashbacks-reflections-tend to make the novel drag with familiarity, it never feels burdened enough to label it boredom. This installment finds Midnight doing time in jail and gives Souljah ample space to rift on the injustices of the prison system, the ills that continue to plague the Black community and the contradictions that all men live with. She even takes the time to have real life Lisa visit the jail and make a speech that has all inmates screaming with approval. In her visit Lisa states:
“Brothers and sisters, we gotta get our hearts right. Love the right things. Hate the wrong things. Brothers, we gotta get our minds right. Read the right books. Write the right words. Rhyme the right lyrics. Sing the right songs. Speak the truth, Brothers! We gotta get our souls right. Praise the right God . . . ’Cause if you are telling me that you are God, you better be the solution and not the problem.”
Her writing skills have sharpened and will soon match her storytelling ability, a combination that will certainly garner her many more fans. This series is clearly aimed at young African-Americans particularly young black men and hopefully they are reading and using Midnight as an example of what may be possible for them in their own life. She strikes just the right balance between entertainment and education and perhaps young people can learn some things while also finding joy in reading that resonates with their own life.
There are a lot of reflections, looking back on the first two episodes in this series; and so the current and present tense flow doesn't account for more than half of the book which clocks in at a hefty 544 pages. While some of the flashbacks-reflections-tend to make the novel drag with familiarity, it never feels burdened enough to label it boredom. This installment finds Midnight doing time in jail and gives Souljah ample space to rift on the injustices of the prison system, the ills that continue to plague the Black community and the contradictions that all men live with. She even takes the time to have real life Lisa visit the jail and make a speech that has all inmates screaming with approval. In her visit Lisa states:
“Brothers and sisters, we gotta get our hearts right. Love the right things. Hate the wrong things. Brothers, we gotta get our minds right. Read the right books. Write the right words. Rhyme the right lyrics. Sing the right songs. Speak the truth, Brothers! We gotta get our souls right. Praise the right God . . . ’Cause if you are telling me that you are God, you better be the solution and not the problem.”
Her writing skills have sharpened and will soon match her storytelling ability, a combination that will certainly garner her many more fans. This series is clearly aimed at young African-Americans particularly young black men and hopefully they are reading and using Midnight as an example of what may be possible for them in their own life. She strikes just the right balance between entertainment and education and perhaps young people can learn some things while also finding joy in reading that resonates with their own life.
November 23, 2015
SOOOOOOOOOO beyond disappointed in how this book ended. Not sure if it was a cliffhanger or Sista Souljah got bored with the basic story line, switched it up, and then realized the book was damn near a gillion pages and knew she had to wrap it up. Although I was left with many MANY questions, this is the first time after reading the last two in the series as well as Coldest Winter Ever, that I'm basically all set with reading any more about this character. I'd personally like to see a continuance but from the point of view of his wife Chiasa.
Athough I was left frustrated, all in all it was written well and a quick read, as most of her books are, but there were many inconsistencies and the ending was beyond unrealistic. If you are a true fan of her writing and especially this character you should still read it but I truly hope this is not the end of this series because if so this was a bogus way to go out.
Athough I was left frustrated, all in all it was written well and a quick read, as most of her books are, but there were many inconsistencies and the ending was beyond unrealistic. If you are a true fan of her writing and especially this character you should still read it but I truly hope this is not the end of this series because if so this was a bogus way to go out.
June 4, 2021
Midnight is becoming the character I love to hate. The book has some preachy moments that I don't mind, but I wish he would make just one mistake and learn from it. This is what makes a book relatable.
December 9, 2015
I promised myself that I would stop reading Sister Souljah's work for reasons that I will cover, but somehow I found myself downloading and jumping into the the third book in the Midnight Series. In order to read this book, I had to finally accept that the threads between all of Souljah's books are very thin. If you try to follow both Midnight and Porsche Santiaga's story lines from the Coldest Winter Ever into their own spin off books, you are going to come up short. They just don't make any sense and although it feels like Souljah is not even trying to follow the story line that she created I decided to just give her a break. The Coldest Winter Ever was published in 1999. It is quite possible that Sister Souljah didn't know that one day she would follow up on the original story and it is possible that getting both Midnight and Porsche's stories out there is more important that following the path she created. She's an artist and is entitled to do what she wants with her characters, so with that said, I am done trying to link the stories.
The other thing that I have to get over is how far fetched Midnight's life is. He left Sudan at age 7 with his family. I don't recall the exact circumstances, but his father raised him well enough to take care of his family in a foreign land. By age 14 he is married to two women, has two unborn children, owns a house out right, has several businesses, is an expert at basketball, martial arts, love making, chess and just about everything he sets his mind to do. At one point in his internal monologue, he says he can cook. My immediate response was of course you can. You can do everything.
It is obvious that I do not like Midnight's character. Yes, he was portrayed as beautiful, mysterious, loyal and trustworthy in The Coldest Winter Ever, but once Souljah started describing him in the prequels my admiration for this character turned into dislike. This is a young man maneuvering his way in a land that he seems to abhor and does not trust. If he has the means to go to Japan and Korea for love, why not move his family elsewhere?
This book and all of the Midnight books feel like a testament to how great foreigners are and how terrible Americans are. It offers high praise to the Muslim faith, while demonizing Christianity at every turn. As usual, the Black men prey on women, cheat, lie and manipulate. They don't hold true to their faith and are basically immoral. The Black women are portrayed as sexually aggressive and don't value themselves as evidenced by their inability to wear decent clothes.
So, why do I keep reading?
The books are intriguing to some degree. This book is terribly over written, but it does paint a view of America and Christianity that I can understand. Not fully agree with, but understand. Also, while I am not a fan of Midnight, I do have a respect for those individuals that can live a fully disciplined life-even though Midnight is an extreme version of this.
Two things happened in this story that made me think that Souljah may be listening to the criticism about this character. One, Santiaga makes several appearances in this book and he calls Midnight out on looking down on other men. Midnight does this with just about every American he encounters throughout the book. He has an inflated sense of self and no one can touch him. Yet, Souljah has Santiaga not only pick up on this, but caution him against it.
The other interesting part, was how Midnight handled the character Lavidicus. For the first time, Midnight makes a mistake, apologizes for his actions and offers someone his assistance. Even after learning that Lavidicus is in love with him, Midnight still helps him and because Midnight is skilled at everything he cures Lavidicus of homosexuality and helps him marry. Okay, I am being a little facetious here. It is not clear if Lavidicus is a homosexual or just confused, but whatever the issue is, Midnight fixes it because he is just that kind of guy.
I appreciate that whole story did not take place in prison and was set up with flashbacks, so that the reader could catch up on Midnight's life after his return to American with Akemi and Chiasa until the moment he is arrested. As always, the prison scenes were heavy and well written. Souljah captures descriptions quite well.
The ending was far fetched and purposely left the reader hanging for what will no doubt be another book in this series. Overall, I did not like this book, but found it interesting enough to keep reading until the end.
If there is another book will I read it? I would like to say no, but Sister Souljah gives me just enough intrigue to keep coming back.
The other thing that I have to get over is how far fetched Midnight's life is. He left Sudan at age 7 with his family. I don't recall the exact circumstances, but his father raised him well enough to take care of his family in a foreign land. By age 14 he is married to two women, has two unborn children, owns a house out right, has several businesses, is an expert at basketball, martial arts, love making, chess and just about everything he sets his mind to do. At one point in his internal monologue, he says he can cook. My immediate response was of course you can. You can do everything.
It is obvious that I do not like Midnight's character. Yes, he was portrayed as beautiful, mysterious, loyal and trustworthy in The Coldest Winter Ever, but once Souljah started describing him in the prequels my admiration for this character turned into dislike. This is a young man maneuvering his way in a land that he seems to abhor and does not trust. If he has the means to go to Japan and Korea for love, why not move his family elsewhere?
This book and all of the Midnight books feel like a testament to how great foreigners are and how terrible Americans are. It offers high praise to the Muslim faith, while demonizing Christianity at every turn. As usual, the Black men prey on women, cheat, lie and manipulate. They don't hold true to their faith and are basically immoral. The Black women are portrayed as sexually aggressive and don't value themselves as evidenced by their inability to wear decent clothes.
So, why do I keep reading?
The books are intriguing to some degree. This book is terribly over written, but it does paint a view of America and Christianity that I can understand. Not fully agree with, but understand. Also, while I am not a fan of Midnight, I do have a respect for those individuals that can live a fully disciplined life-even though Midnight is an extreme version of this.
Two things happened in this story that made me think that Souljah may be listening to the criticism about this character. One, Santiaga makes several appearances in this book and he calls Midnight out on looking down on other men. Midnight does this with just about every American he encounters throughout the book. He has an inflated sense of self and no one can touch him. Yet, Souljah has Santiaga not only pick up on this, but caution him against it.
The other interesting part, was how Midnight handled the character Lavidicus. For the first time, Midnight makes a mistake, apologizes for his actions and offers someone his assistance. Even after learning that Lavidicus is in love with him, Midnight still helps him and because Midnight is skilled at everything he cures Lavidicus of homosexuality and helps him marry. Okay, I am being a little facetious here. It is not clear if Lavidicus is a homosexual or just confused, but whatever the issue is, Midnight fixes it because he is just that kind of guy.
I appreciate that whole story did not take place in prison and was set up with flashbacks, so that the reader could catch up on Midnight's life after his return to American with Akemi and Chiasa until the moment he is arrested. As always, the prison scenes were heavy and well written. Souljah captures descriptions quite well.
The ending was far fetched and purposely left the reader hanging for what will no doubt be another book in this series. Overall, I did not like this book, but found it interesting enough to keep reading until the end.
If there is another book will I read it? I would like to say no, but Sister Souljah gives me just enough intrigue to keep coming back.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 7, 2019
Aside from some grammatical errors and the many long, unnecessary descriptions, the story is well written. My rating is based on the poisonous message this book perpetuates. It doesn’t sit well with me that a black author, who is (allegedly) proud to be black, would write a story where the black characters are painted in an inferior light, while the non-black characters are not; and where Asians are painted as superior in all aspects of life – looks, culture, talent, intelligence, etc. This book reinforces all of the negative black stereotypes, incl blacks are immature, debased, violent, unintelligent and are comfortable living a depraved, impoverished life. The black characters that aren't in the hood, ie Chiasa’s family, are not forward-thinkers, they are hindered by black tradition and are devout followers of eurocentric-based success. The character Chiasa is described as “exotic” b/c she is black and Japanese - ugh! Akemi is described as super sexy and stylish and Midnight’s white lawyer was given a thorough description so we can visualize her euro beauty (long hair, big blue eyes, etc.). Meanwhile, Souljah doesn’t take the time to describe the physical beauty of any of the black characters. In fact, their descriptions were short, basic and (mostly) ratchet. I wonder what Souljah’s intent was with this book? I will never again read any body of work she puts out. Ever.
p.s. I’m not buying for one minute that a conservative, cultured Sudanese man would marry a non-Sudanese woman. Get real, Souljah!
p.s. I’m not buying for one minute that a conservative, cultured Sudanese man would marry a non-Sudanese woman. Get real, Souljah!
November 19, 2015
Sister soulja we gone fight
I love the midnight books. Yes they are long. No they are not like the coldest winter ever but yet they make you think. No I am not a muslim will never be but its nice to know about their religion and thoughts. Now back to why sister soulja and I gone fight. Iam so teed that sje stopped the book there. Im mad because I know its going to take a year or some YEARS for her to come out with the fourth book. She is slowly making her way to how he knew ricky santiaga. Still dont know how he met winter. Heck I dont know if winter is born yet. Matter of fact winter still is not mentioned. However the journey this book is taking me on. Uuuugggh sister soulja hurry up with the next book please.
I love the midnight books. Yes they are long. No they are not like the coldest winter ever but yet they make you think. No I am not a muslim will never be but its nice to know about their religion and thoughts. Now back to why sister soulja and I gone fight. Iam so teed that sje stopped the book there. Im mad because I know its going to take a year or some YEARS for her to come out with the fourth book. She is slowly making her way to how he knew ricky santiaga. Still dont know how he met winter. Heck I dont know if winter is born yet. Matter of fact winter still is not mentioned. However the journey this book is taking me on. Uuuugggh sister soulja hurry up with the next book please.
December 6, 2015
A Moment of silence deserves just that, a moment of silence. It showed us how powerful deep thought and reflection could be and how profound silence is. I love Sister Souljah books not because of hot steamy sex scenes and a depiction of the thug and his down bitch. But because Sister Souljah makes you think past that. Because she gives you an example of a real man, a strong woman, true love and a strong faith. If after reading her books you don't want to find yourself & reevaluate your ways then the book went completely over your head. Not everybody is ready for sister Souljah or her message. The black man should be the head of his family, he should provide, protect, and love his family especially the women in his life. The women should be his help mate & backbone of our men and family (see proverbs 31.) Although Midnight is of the Muslim religion their beliefs are not too far from our Christian beliefs (look past what you have heard on TV of terrorist and the fact they have more than one wife. Instead focus on why they believe the way they do and the purpose. Now reflect on your Christian beliefs. Is there much difference?) I hope the wait is not too long for the next part of this series. If you want to read something that touches your spirit then read this but do so with an open heart and mind! #HappyReading
July 12, 2019
I'm not feeling it!!!! it's boring & too drawn out. get to the goddamn point already.. I've read this same book these last couple of years four different times & it still ain't drawing me in. sorry sister souljah this ain't the business here!!! y'all can keep this shit
November 15, 2015
Great book. I am disappointed that preference was given to one wife over the other. The book highlighted Chiasa and Midnight's relationship. Akemi was barely mentioned. In true to Sister Souljah form, a 4th novel should be expected.
March 11, 2016
I will not offer any spoilers whatsoever because I respect you and love you and I desire that you savor each sweet second of the newest masterpiece from Our Sister Souljah. Read this book - then share it with your sisters, brothers, loved ones, your partners, sons, daughters, nieces and nephews and even your elders, neighbors and coworkers. I know I will.
This book was like a cool drink in a hot desert, for me. I was not able to put this book down and was repeatedly surprised that one living genius birthed such a powerful work. Mash'Allah!
Please read this as soon as possible and let me know what you think! I would love to know what thoughts this book inspires in you about current/past events, Islam, prayer, the prison system, the organization of men, polygamy, womanhood, religion, cheating, war, chess, reading and more.
Loving you,
Your Sister Ayodele
ayodelefuega@gmail.com
This book was like a cool drink in a hot desert, for me. I was not able to put this book down and was repeatedly surprised that one living genius birthed such a powerful work. Mash'Allah!
Please read this as soon as possible and let me know what you think! I would love to know what thoughts this book inspires in you about current/past events, Islam, prayer, the prison system, the organization of men, polygamy, womanhood, religion, cheating, war, chess, reading and more.
Loving you,
Your Sister Ayodele
ayodelefuega@gmail.com
November 15, 2015
I thought that the book was deep and very insightful. I'm trying to write this review with more of an open mind, even more-so than it was when I was actually reading the book. If you are expecting an adventure that keeps you on your toes like a good majority of the books in the CWE world, then you will definitely NOT get what you expected.
I thought Souljah did a great job at analyzing a lot of the deeply rooted issues that still plague the Black community today (dysfunctional families/homes, religious contradictions, poverty-stricken neighborhoods, the corrupt jail system, etc.). It definitely made the wheels in my head turn. But at the same time, I still find the Midnight character to be unrealistic, especially because of his age (17-18). As I think back to all of the prequel Midnight books, its just hard to really find his character or his storyline in conjunction with message she was trying to deliver believable.
Between the continuous info-dumps on the ideals and beliefs of a "true" Muslim (and why they are much more superior to that of a Christian), a highly fabricated (and unrealistic) storyline that involves the recruitment of this 17 year old in various organizations (drug and military alike) because of his high intelligence, and the polygamy, I can't score this book anything above a 3.5.
One thing that is cool is that we got to see his introduction of Ricky Santiaga into Midnight's storyline. You definitely get a better understanding to why Midnight becomes one of the most trusted soldiers in his empire. Out of curiosity, I will probably (unenthusiastically) read to see what happen next in his path.
I thought Souljah did a great job at analyzing a lot of the deeply rooted issues that still plague the Black community today (dysfunctional families/homes, religious contradictions, poverty-stricken neighborhoods, the corrupt jail system, etc.). It definitely made the wheels in my head turn. But at the same time, I still find the Midnight character to be unrealistic, especially because of his age (17-18). As I think back to all of the prequel Midnight books, its just hard to really find his character or his storyline in conjunction with message she was trying to deliver believable.
Between the continuous info-dumps on the ideals and beliefs of a "true" Muslim (and why they are much more superior to that of a Christian), a highly fabricated (and unrealistic) storyline that involves the recruitment of this 17 year old in various organizations (drug and military alike) because of his high intelligence, and the polygamy, I can't score this book anything above a 3.5.
One thing that is cool is that we got to see his introduction of Ricky Santiaga into Midnight's storyline. You definitely get a better understanding to why Midnight becomes one of the most trusted soldiers in his empire. Out of curiosity, I will probably (unenthusiastically) read to see what happen next in his path.
February 1, 2016
In the midst of such cringe-worthy themes there is an actual plot, and several sub plots, to the story. Midnight commits a crime that is contradictorily described as criminal and commendable. Somehow he also gets wrapped up in a drug-bust that lands him in jail. As he traverses the vile, and seedy corruption of prison, he attempts to maintain a clear conscious and pure heart, all easily achieved by remaining silent. It is through silence that he learns “the demons that live in men.”
The novel skips back-and-forth between past and present interactions Midnight has exclusively with men–there is a chapter dedicated to a “she-officer,” an Aunt, and his female attorney. Through these interactions Midnight reveals how he manages to pass all of the tests on his character, never making a mistake–except for the one that lands him in prison. Unfortunately, the plot is not as engaging as one may think. The ending is an anti-climatic twist that was more of an easy way out of a confusing web than an actual resolve. I have no doubts another Midnight book will be coming, I have even fewer doubts that I’ll be reading it.
Read more here: https://readingfields.wordpress.com/2...
The novel skips back-and-forth between past and present interactions Midnight has exclusively with men–there is a chapter dedicated to a “she-officer,” an Aunt, and his female attorney. Through these interactions Midnight reveals how he manages to pass all of the tests on his character, never making a mistake–except for the one that lands him in prison. Unfortunately, the plot is not as engaging as one may think. The ending is an anti-climatic twist that was more of an easy way out of a confusing web than an actual resolve. I have no doubts another Midnight book will be coming, I have even fewer doubts that I’ll be reading it.
Read more here: https://readingfields.wordpress.com/2...
February 5, 2017
Very Good
This one shows Midnights growth into man hood. I learned just because you have a mouth you don't always have to talk, listen more. Even though the General doesn't want him with his daughter, her love for Midnight makes the General's calculated plans for Midnight somewhat beneficial for him in terms of scholastic education to add to his street & fighting smarts. Good book. I hope there is more to come. The author teaches through her story telling.
This one shows Midnights growth into man hood. I learned just because you have a mouth you don't always have to talk, listen more. Even though the General doesn't want him with his daughter, her love for Midnight makes the General's calculated plans for Midnight somewhat beneficial for him in terms of scholastic education to add to his street & fighting smarts. Good book. I hope there is more to come. The author teaches through her story telling.
December 7, 2015
Just the love story between Chiasa and Midnight alone is so moving in the novel that I didn't want it to end. Sister Souljah has an immaculate way of presenting characters that connect with our current culture and evoke feelings of our daily realities.
January 20, 2021
Unbelievably long book full of words but lacking meaningful details. Took me forever to get through it.
This book served no real purpose in the saga for me. Midnight came home with wife #2 and they had sex many times because she is the one he is in love with. Last I heard wife #1 was the love of his life.
The family drama wife #2 came with was just extra "stuff". The aunt, uncle, father storyline overwhelmed the story and certainly not in a good way.
The story is disjointed, flipping between being in jail and prior to jail, then flipping back again.
While the 14 year old gets to be a ripe old 15, his wise beyond years approach to EVERY situation wore thin. Mind you, he was 7 when he came to America yet he repeatedly speaks of the lessons his father imparted and how he taught him to be a man. Ok.
What buttered my biscuit overall was the fact that EVERY female "loved" him no matter their age. The only exception was Chiasa's aunt. Another annoyance was his constant judgements of African Americans for everything. The initially described "disciplined" Midnight turns out to be a smug little know it all who is no better because he is African. Even in jail he had the nerve to pity the very same people he was serving time with. Pitying them because they had no moral code according to him. Bruh, you're in the same place, and eating the same food as them so...
This book served no real purpose in the saga for me. Midnight came home with wife #2 and they had sex many times because she is the one he is in love with. Last I heard wife #1 was the love of his life.
The family drama wife #2 came with was just extra "stuff". The aunt, uncle, father storyline overwhelmed the story and certainly not in a good way.
The story is disjointed, flipping between being in jail and prior to jail, then flipping back again.
While the 14 year old gets to be a ripe old 15, his wise beyond years approach to EVERY situation wore thin. Mind you, he was 7 when he came to America yet he repeatedly speaks of the lessons his father imparted and how he taught him to be a man. Ok.
What buttered my biscuit overall was the fact that EVERY female "loved" him no matter their age. The only exception was Chiasa's aunt. Another annoyance was his constant judgements of African Americans for everything. The initially described "disciplined" Midnight turns out to be a smug little know it all who is no better because he is African. Even in jail he had the nerve to pity the very same people he was serving time with. Pitying them because they had no moral code according to him. Bruh, you're in the same place, and eating the same food as them so...
November 18, 2015
I just finished this book and I'm in dire need of a continuation. She is really good on getting readers hooked and letting them left to float until the next one is released lol. She has done a heck of a job on this book! I definitely recommend everyone getting that $13 ebook and walk and read it in a week!
October 4, 2017
Midnight is back. This book gives you insight on the culture of a young black Muslim man in American urban society. I thought the book was pretty decent but in some what over exaggerated the urban culture. I didn't care for the sexual scenes in the book but found Midnight's experience in prison interesting.
November 13, 2020
In the wise words of Sister Souljah: “Books offer knowledge that make it possible for us to break the negative cycles that we all have become too comfortable accepting”.
If you haven’t done so yet get on the Sister Souljah train and come enjoy this ride. What are you waiting for?! It’s a gangster love story nobody should be missing out on. Each book has been one enticing, thought provoking journey after the other. This book gives us the backstory of how Midnight was introduced to us in TCW. Although there’s one contradiction I was hoping to read and get a better understanding of with this story and what was told in TCW. However, the dots are definitely connecting and I know this ride is far from over. I’m absolutely sure it’s going to be cleared up in the book that’s being released March 2021.
If you haven’t done so yet get on the Sister Souljah train and come enjoy this ride. What are you waiting for?! It’s a gangster love story nobody should be missing out on. Each book has been one enticing, thought provoking journey after the other. This book gives us the backstory of how Midnight was introduced to us in TCW. Although there’s one contradiction I was hoping to read and get a better understanding of with this story and what was told in TCW. However, the dots are definitely connecting and I know this ride is far from over. I’m absolutely sure it’s going to be cleared up in the book that’s being released March 2021.
August 18, 2016
For me, it took quite some time for me to gather an interest in this read. I have been trying to read Midnight series since it arrived on the scene (although most of Sistah Souljah's fans wanted to see a sequel to the Coldest Winter) but this one I can say, I can get Midnight a bit better than the first two books in the series. One of the downfalls with these series is that they are way too long. For instance, this book did not get interesting to me until around 300 pages, especially chapter 22 with the attorney-client privilege with Jordan (made-up name for Midnight).
I do like how Souljah added Japanese, Chinese, and Spanish to name a few languages; of course, she had to do Arabic since Midnight is a Muslim. I was familiar with a couple words but I believe Shi Shi (missing ni pronounced 'nee') mentioned in the book is not how it is spelled in Chinese to say "thank you" in Mandarin but presuming this is how Midnight heard it and thought it was spelled.
Midnight is a character that in some aspects I respect, like when he said, "if she's not your wife, you don't go in her (sexually). If you want her, don't play with her (such as no manipulative, player games). Marry her. Take care of her. Love and treat her good (page 323)." Moreover, he married two uniquely women of different cultures and races.
I was a bit confused how Midnight did meet Santiaga through the Hustlers' League of black ball players and asked Midnight to play on his team because he wanted younger, stronger, and quicker, and to be undefeated. However, was finally glad to see how Santiaga got his cameo in Midnight's series.
"Best thinker is the one who can think head of the present time and set a strategy into motion that with best secure his/her future (page 324)."
I do like the attorney-client scenes; jail scenes when Midnight connects with the female C/O; and playing a brotherly role with the man he fought in jail (hit him in the jaw) to see God for himself and know what it is to be a true man. Rather I agree with the Islamic views or dysfunctional outtakes, but to see that he is the answer to help the man in his desolate to be the resolute, this is a plus to mankind; iron sharpens iron.
"... criminal outs a person, network, or institution, business, or system that violates or operates and participates in activities outside of the established laws of legitimate govt...(p.530)"
Leisure read 2016
*might have to get a copy for the library I work at
I do like how Souljah added Japanese, Chinese, and Spanish to name a few languages; of course, she had to do Arabic since Midnight is a Muslim. I was familiar with a couple words but I believe Shi Shi (missing ni pronounced 'nee') mentioned in the book is not how it is spelled in Chinese to say "thank you" in Mandarin but presuming this is how Midnight heard it and thought it was spelled.
Midnight is a character that in some aspects I respect, like when he said, "if she's not your wife, you don't go in her (sexually). If you want her, don't play with her (such as no manipulative, player games). Marry her. Take care of her. Love and treat her good (page 323)." Moreover, he married two uniquely women of different cultures and races.
I was a bit confused how Midnight did meet Santiaga through the Hustlers' League of black ball players and asked Midnight to play on his team because he wanted younger, stronger, and quicker, and to be undefeated. However, was finally glad to see how Santiaga got his cameo in Midnight's series.
"Best thinker is the one who can think head of the present time and set a strategy into motion that with best secure his/her future (page 324)."
I do like the attorney-client scenes; jail scenes when Midnight connects with the female C/O; and playing a brotherly role with the man he fought in jail (hit him in the jaw) to see God for himself and know what it is to be a true man. Rather I agree with the Islamic views or dysfunctional outtakes, but to see that he is the answer to help the man in his desolate to be the resolute, this is a plus to mankind; iron sharpens iron.
"... criminal outs a person, network, or institution, business, or system that violates or operates and participates in activities outside of the established laws of legitimate govt...(p.530)"
Leisure read 2016
*might have to get a copy for the library I work at
April 1, 2016
This the 3rd installment of Midnight's life. And feels like this is not the end and I look forward to the next book. I feel so biased about this book. I say this because I share the same religious beliefs and so the truths that are placed in this fiction I agree and find them really clever written into this story !
But stepping back from my obvious bias I sort of feel the information dumping was a little preachy but I just sort of skimmed over already known information.
what made this book so wonderful was the intertwine of hood knowledge, international culture, religion, prison, military, and martial arts all in one book.
For me this book was captivating with Midnight's dedication to his morals despite his environmental changes.
He cared for his 2 asian /black wives , his mom, and his little sister.
I liked the look into the New York street basketball game, the hood politics, and prison insite all in a realistic fiction.
In then there's the love scenes but they were all for his wives and how the rawness of the language.
I ate this book up and found myself flying through this 500+ pages quite easily.
A good book is a good book!
But stepping back from my obvious bias I sort of feel the information dumping was a little preachy but I just sort of skimmed over already known information.
what made this book so wonderful was the intertwine of hood knowledge, international culture, religion, prison, military, and martial arts all in one book.
For me this book was captivating with Midnight's dedication to his morals despite his environmental changes.
He cared for his 2 asian /black wives , his mom, and his little sister.
I liked the look into the New York street basketball game, the hood politics, and prison insite all in a realistic fiction.
In then there's the love scenes but they were all for his wives and how the rawness of the language.
I ate this book up and found myself flying through this 500+ pages quite easily.
A good book is a good book!
June 19, 2016
Midnight returns to America with wife Akemi and now second wife Chiasa. Both wives, Umma, and Naja live in a house together. An incident happens which lands Midnight to be incarcerated. He begins a silence streak, where he does not speak for days on end. He reflects and holds on to memories to keep him sane, while he is locked away. I prefer the first two books, but I love Sister Souljah so much. Maybe I'm weird, but I feel like he would be better if with Chiasa only. I don't see how much Akemi fits in with him at this point. Again, this is just my opinion. Well written and gems hidden that are placed away.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2015
Totally in love with Midnight Series. I guess my love is a little biased because Midnight is very much like reading about my husband, so I'm engrossed. Aside from that I'm hooked on the story and anticipating how everything will finally be tied together. I think Sis. Souljah does lay enough groundwork that you can start piecing things together somewhat. I didn't expect this book to be a finale, I can patiently await her next release.
If you enjoy the Midnight Series then this read is for you, if you are just holding on for a sequel to The Coldest Winter Ever, then this isn't it.
If you enjoy the Midnight Series then this read is for you, if you are just holding on for a sequel to The Coldest Winter Ever, then this isn't it.
April 30, 2017
The Midnight series does show growth in this writer's abilities, so I am satisfied with my purchase. Yet, this storyline differs from Midnight's experiences in the previous books and his current philosophies on his teenage life. His letters were confusing with regard to his relationships within the prison walls. Wasn't he raped and endured other horrendous acts?! But this book shows him as basically self-sufficient, a leader and in charge of the prison yard. Perhaps, by his standards of belief or not?
November 28, 2015
Make it Last Forever
I could read Souljah's books all day, every day. I love her gifted storytelling. She weaves intricate plots with such exquisite detail that resonate with any urban dweller of culture and color from a number of eras. The subtle strength and complexity of her feminine protagonists matter. The magnetic charisma and secured brilliance of Midnight keeps me captivated! Hated for it to end.
I could read Souljah's books all day, every day. I love her gifted storytelling. She weaves intricate plots with such exquisite detail that resonate with any urban dweller of culture and color from a number of eras. The subtle strength and complexity of her feminine protagonists matter. The magnetic charisma and secured brilliance of Midnight keeps me captivated! Hated for it to end.
April 16, 2017
This book was very long. It was back and forth between Midnight being in jail and flashing back to his life. Why a young man with two young wives and businesses would commit an impulse murder is beyond me. This movie showed the grimy side of Rikers's Prison that is all too real for many New Yorkers. He was a very disciplined young man with supreme Muslim ideals. The ending was a little far fetched also.
January 31, 2016
OMG... and "A Moment of Silence" that was...I enjoyed this book tremendously. Sister Souljah you are one of the most creative authors of our times, the way you bring the characters to life is simply amazing, please tell me that there is a follow-up to this book. Much respect
July 5, 2016
The worst.
I have never hated a book so much in my life. The story went on forever and didn't go anywhere. The writing was wordy and indulgent without ever actually saying anything. The characters were incredible in the truest sense of the word. I would like a refund of my time.
I have never hated a book so much in my life. The story went on forever and didn't go anywhere. The writing was wordy and indulgent without ever actually saying anything. The characters were incredible in the truest sense of the word. I would like a refund of my time.
July 10, 2024
A moment of silence was a spin off from The Coldest Winter Ever and a continuation of the Midnight Series it was 10/10. A lot of the things did seem a little unreal as far as the physical capabilities of a teenager but it was amazing. It also highlights a lot of his Muslim culture and values.
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