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Brick Road #1
Maxed Out
Ramses hated growing up in his Atlanta neighborhood, so he found a way out, college. Now he has to provide for his pregnant girlfriend, Anita, and their first child on the way. But college won t get Anita and Ramses out of the neighborhood before their baby is born, so he turns to crime to speed up the relocation. With the assistance of the boss of a Mexican cartel, his circumstances change for the better. But just as he thinks he is out, new dangers arise threatening to pull him and his family back to the ghetto he is fighting to escape. Desperate times may call for desperate measures, and Ramses must decide which is more important, money or family.
250 pages, Paperback
Published December 9, 2017
8 people are currently reading
454 people want to read
About the author
Cal Lewis
1 book23 followersOn December 9, 2011, Cal Lewis became federal inmate #43818-074. Raised in Atlanta, Georgia and a graduate of Morehouse College. Enrolled at the time in a PhD program at the University of Georgia, Cal found himself labeled as the leader on a federal conspiracy indictment for fraud. Bank records indicated Mr. Lewis made over $36,000 in one month during his scheme and over $150,000 in less than a year. With these charges, he faced up to 35 years in federal prison. He was subsequently sentenced to 70 months.
While incarcerated, Cal channeled his energy towards the positive pursuit of writing novels and being of service to individuals seeking rehabilitation and a second chance. Released in 2016, Cal is now an author, Managing Director of a media company, criminal justice reform activist, and a member of the Board of Advisors for the nonprofit, Rehabilitation Enables Dreams, Inc. (RED).
Cal is a traveling speaker and has plans on pursuing a law degree in the near future. To date, he has already been featured in Sheen magazine, The Atlanta Voice newspaper, and has been a featured speaker in a number of states around the country. His debut fiction novel, Maxed Out, is currently available on Amazon. When he isn't living in the world of his characters, he can be found interacting with his readers on his Facebook author page, www.facebook.com/callewisatl . Check out his website, www.CALwrites.com for the latest blog posts and upcoming book releases.
While incarcerated, Cal channeled his energy towards the positive pursuit of writing novels and being of service to individuals seeking rehabilitation and a second chance. Released in 2016, Cal is now an author, Managing Director of a media company, criminal justice reform activist, and a member of the Board of Advisors for the nonprofit, Rehabilitation Enables Dreams, Inc. (RED).
Cal is a traveling speaker and has plans on pursuing a law degree in the near future. To date, he has already been featured in Sheen magazine, The Atlanta Voice newspaper, and has been a featured speaker in a number of states around the country. His debut fiction novel, Maxed Out, is currently available on Amazon. When he isn't living in the world of his characters, he can be found interacting with his readers on his Facebook author page, www.facebook.com/callewisatl . Check out his website, www.CALwrites.com for the latest blog posts and upcoming book releases.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
December 31, 2017
Video review coming soon...
November 27, 2017
This was like Players Club meets Drumline meets ATL. There was a lot of strip clubs, football and underhanded business.
I don't read a lot of crime fiction, but I really enjoyed this novel. The writing was smooth and hip with witty dailogue. I didn't find the language all that gritty. I felt the sex scenes were tame and done in a way that doesn't offend. The author could've pushed the boundaries a little more to match the salacious cover. The characters were nicely developed. Ramses was a smooth talker who can't stay still. He didn't practice what he preached. Every time he gave someone a lecture about staying out of trouble I couldn't help but roll my eyes. His bestfriend Arty was like a horny chow wow. He added humor to the story. Killian was sexy. I felt his character could've been better if introduced earlier into the plot. The climax was alright. I expected more of a bang. I kind of saw it coming.
The story is about a young black man, Ramses, who's tired of living in his rundown neighborhood in Atlanta. After his father passing, he feels the need to take care of those around him. Once his girlfriend becomes pregnant, his life changes. He drops out of college to support his family and gets suck into a world of shady deeds and characters.... and having an addiction to strip clubs makes matters even worst.
This was a thrilling read for anyone that loves urban lit and crime fiction. I certainly was entertained from start to finish. I couldn't help but wonder what was going to happen to the main character. The author does a great job throwing a light on several challenges that confronts urban society today. If you like Eric Jerome Dickey writing ...you'll like this author. Looking forward to the next book.
I don't read a lot of crime fiction, but I really enjoyed this novel. The writing was smooth and hip with witty dailogue. I didn't find the language all that gritty. I felt the sex scenes were tame and done in a way that doesn't offend. The author could've pushed the boundaries a little more to match the salacious cover. The characters were nicely developed. Ramses was a smooth talker who can't stay still. He didn't practice what he preached. Every time he gave someone a lecture about staying out of trouble I couldn't help but roll my eyes. His bestfriend Arty was like a horny chow wow. He added humor to the story. Killian was sexy. I felt his character could've been better if introduced earlier into the plot. The climax was alright. I expected more of a bang. I kind of saw it coming.
The story is about a young black man, Ramses, who's tired of living in his rundown neighborhood in Atlanta. After his father passing, he feels the need to take care of those around him. Once his girlfriend becomes pregnant, his life changes. He drops out of college to support his family and gets suck into a world of shady deeds and characters.... and having an addiction to strip clubs makes matters even worst.
This was a thrilling read for anyone that loves urban lit and crime fiction. I certainly was entertained from start to finish. I couldn't help but wonder what was going to happen to the main character. The author does a great job throwing a light on several challenges that confronts urban society today. If you like Eric Jerome Dickey writing ...you'll like this author. Looking forward to the next book.
December 10, 2017
A good read. I look forward to reading more in the series.
December 4, 2017
This is not your average urban novel. In most urban tales it centers around the sins of money, power, sex and drugs - but this one is a complete twist about what one thinks they know about urban crime stories. This is a whole new perspective on how to make money - without slinging dope. That story has been told too many time in books and film.
This is a fresh perpective on the new way to come up (illegally) and how cybercrime can be a mastermind to get to the money. It is based in Atlanta, home of the trap (and trap music) but this is a new trap. I truly enjoyed all of the authentic Atlanta references mentioned in this book. If you are from Atlanta or appreicate the city you can read the energy of the culture all throughout this book.
Most importantly the lead in the book is doing all of what he is doing for a cause. Not your typical 'Get Rich' 'Lifestyle of the Rich and Famous' goals to come up. He is on a real mission and the motive is family oriented. Very enticing book. Dont let the cover fool you, this is way deeper than strippers and sex, but strip clubs play an important role in this book in a way you wouldn't expect. I was shocked. I learned some things in this book. Great engaging novel I highly recommend this book, you will be surprised! Read it for the culture.
This is a fresh perpective on the new way to come up (illegally) and how cybercrime can be a mastermind to get to the money. It is based in Atlanta, home of the trap (and trap music) but this is a new trap. I truly enjoyed all of the authentic Atlanta references mentioned in this book. If you are from Atlanta or appreicate the city you can read the energy of the culture all throughout this book.
Most importantly the lead in the book is doing all of what he is doing for a cause. Not your typical 'Get Rich' 'Lifestyle of the Rich and Famous' goals to come up. He is on a real mission and the motive is family oriented. Very enticing book. Dont let the cover fool you, this is way deeper than strippers and sex, but strip clubs play an important role in this book in a way you wouldn't expect. I was shocked. I learned some things in this book. Great engaging novel I highly recommend this book, you will be surprised! Read it for the culture.
January 21, 2018
Hot Atlanta setting for this crime book. First time reader here. I like the protagonists. I wanted him not to fall into crime,but I appreciate the setting, the layered story, the affection he has for family which predicates the decision crime. Will read more! Recomended
November 21, 2017
3.5 stars
While reading this novel, a phrase I have heard throughout my life came to mind, “everyone in Atlanta has a hustle.” This story is set in Atlanta and surrounding areas. The author, Cal Lewis is a native of the Atlanta area and it is reflective in his writing. The characters Lewis depicts are trying to survive when traditional entrepreneurial avenues are not available, hence the hustle.
Lewis takes the reader on a ride through the hustle and the effects the hustle has on the characters’ relationships. This novel has a little bit of everything: love, romance, crime, emotions, family. Each aspect of the novel makes the reader want to keep reading to see what happens next.
One thing the author does well is naming of the characters especially the main character, Ramses and his brother Tut. By naming these characters after Egyptian royalty, the reader can’t help but feel respect for the brothers while reading about their trials and tribulations.
For a debut novel, Maxed Out is written well and keeps the reader’s attention. Looking forward to the continuation of the Brick Road series!
While reading this novel, a phrase I have heard throughout my life came to mind, “everyone in Atlanta has a hustle.” This story is set in Atlanta and surrounding areas. The author, Cal Lewis is a native of the Atlanta area and it is reflective in his writing. The characters Lewis depicts are trying to survive when traditional entrepreneurial avenues are not available, hence the hustle.
Lewis takes the reader on a ride through the hustle and the effects the hustle has on the characters’ relationships. This novel has a little bit of everything: love, romance, crime, emotions, family. Each aspect of the novel makes the reader want to keep reading to see what happens next.
One thing the author does well is naming of the characters especially the main character, Ramses and his brother Tut. By naming these characters after Egyptian royalty, the reader can’t help but feel respect for the brothers while reading about their trials and tribulations.
For a debut novel, Maxed Out is written well and keeps the reader’s attention. Looking forward to the continuation of the Brick Road series!
December 1, 2017
There is a lot going on in this novel. Strippers and strip clubs, drugs and murders, pregnant girlfriends football and other things I won't tell you about so as not to spoil anything.
But, this book is really about family and what a person will do to try and provide for that family. The characters make a lot of stumbles along the way, often times I was frustrated with the decisions they made. However, I think that added to their authenticity. Anyone who grew up in similar surroundings will recognize a lot of the things that go on and the way those things can work for and against you. Overall this is a solid debut.
But, this book is really about family and what a person will do to try and provide for that family. The characters make a lot of stumbles along the way, often times I was frustrated with the decisions they made. However, I think that added to their authenticity. Anyone who grew up in similar surroundings will recognize a lot of the things that go on and the way those things can work for and against you. Overall this is a solid debut.
December 11, 2017
I really enjoyed reading this book. I love the way how the Lewis goes into details of drugs, Gangs and crime, it also makes me want to read on. This book tends to base on real life issues as well as shows what happens in some part of the community and the system. The characters are great they tend to be a bit funny and I love it how lewis give the characters Egyptian names.
I am very much looking forward to the next book.
I am very much looking forward to the next book.
January 15, 2018
Omg I loved this
Review will be very soon
Review will be very soon
December 22, 2017
Wow what a ride! Firstly it was thoroughly engaging!! You can visualize the happenings as the author brilliantly writes, this book can easily be turned in to an action flick seriously!!
Urban crime fiction where the hero Ramses does everything for the sake of love, this is what intrigued me first. And the author’s dedication message ‘to everyone wishing and working towards better days – be patient’ lit a smile on my face and there was no stopping from there on!
Liked all the characters – Perfect hero Ramses, Perfect wifey Anita, Intelligent Manila, Sweet Tut, Funny Nut & Poor lil Demetri, Nice Joaquin, Smashing Killian (in the end!), Stupid Arty (in the end again-didn’t expect hehe), Unc, Flo.. Mr.Diamante and Ramses’ mom were perfectly described as how parents would be – just loved their part!! And Adorable sweetie Genesis aww!
And then the plot – it was a fresh story, never boring with Atlanta in background. With football, clubs, weed, gangs and ‘M’oney! Though it’s a crime story, it had all the other moments as well – it was a complete entertainer loaded with human emotions and love! But the main part was action, awesome fast paced story with a nail biting climax!!
Can’t believe its written by a debut author – Super work Cal!! Loved it and eagerly waiting for the next part!!
Urban crime fiction where the hero Ramses does everything for the sake of love, this is what intrigued me first. And the author’s dedication message ‘to everyone wishing and working towards better days – be patient’ lit a smile on my face and there was no stopping from there on!
Liked all the characters – Perfect hero Ramses, Perfect wifey Anita, Intelligent Manila, Sweet Tut, Funny Nut & Poor lil Demetri, Nice Joaquin, Smashing Killian (in the end!), Stupid Arty (in the end again-didn’t expect hehe), Unc, Flo.. Mr.Diamante and Ramses’ mom were perfectly described as how parents would be – just loved their part!! And Adorable sweetie Genesis aww!
And then the plot – it was a fresh story, never boring with Atlanta in background. With football, clubs, weed, gangs and ‘M’oney! Though it’s a crime story, it had all the other moments as well – it was a complete entertainer loaded with human emotions and love! But the main part was action, awesome fast paced story with a nail biting climax!!
Can’t believe its written by a debut author – Super work Cal!! Loved it and eagerly waiting for the next part!!
April 11, 2018
This is a fast paced read! It felt like it was well researched too! There were some really likeable characters (Ramses, Anita, Tut, and Manila), however I did not like Arty! LOL! I gave it 4.5 out of 5!
June 13, 2018
No spoilers. Just a summary and my thoughts.
https://youtu.be/GpkAyKDG3Dg
https://youtu.be/GpkAyKDG3Dg
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews