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Across The Tracks
Across the Tracks is an interracial, standalone, BWWM, romance novel that stars a Philadelphia school teacher/journalist and a prejudice politician. Lisa and Rich battled each other as kids, but as adults, they cannot ignore their attraction towards one another. Despite what family, society or their internal upbringing suggest.
See how they must overcome their own internal issues, so that they can overcome others.
***BWWM***
See how they must overcome their own internal issues, so that they can overcome others.
***BWWM***
167 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 28, 2015
164 people are currently reading
206 people want to read
About the author
Xyla Turner
85 books715 followersXyla Turner was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. She has always been a writer, even as a teenager, she wrote short stories and essays that won awards and nation-wide competitions. Xyla is an avid reader of romance novels and a sucker for sassy females and dominant males. She is a lifelong learner, High School Vice-Principal and a pretty good Auntie. Outside of reading, Xyla likes to spend time with her family and friends, experiment with dangerous adventures and travel. She writes different genres, but her favorite is romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
August 31, 2015
Another great story that challenges the way that you think. I love that this author does write her stories around real issues. I was able to relate to this story because I am in an interracial relationship. You do have to address your own internal prejudices and its not just the white half of the couple that needs to that the black half has to do it too!!!
I loved how when Lisa called him out in the press and the world, he called her out about her cowardice and double standard in private just them but it was no less powerful. I loved how he always had her back no matter what and would not let anyone dishonour her. I did not like like how she played that down. I loved it when he said "eyes" to her, he made he look him in the eyes when he was talking to her. There are so many great lines in this story.
Usually the lading ladies by this author irritate the hell out of me, I usually root for the men. I liked Lisa even though I did want to smack her for running and leaving my man hanging at times, at least she had the grace to admit when she was wrong.
Absolute great read. I really, really enjoyed reading this story! Looking forward to the next release!
I loved how when Lisa called him out in the press and the world, he called her out about her cowardice and double standard in private just them but it was no less powerful. I loved how he always had her back no matter what and would not let anyone dishonour her. I did not like like how she played that down. I loved it when he said "eyes" to her, he made he look him in the eyes when he was talking to her. There are so many great lines in this story.
Usually the lading ladies by this author irritate the hell out of me, I usually root for the men. I liked Lisa even though I did want to smack her for running and leaving my man hanging at times, at least she had the grace to admit when she was wrong.
Absolute great read. I really, really enjoyed reading this story! Looking forward to the next release!
August 13, 2018
2.25. Stars. Disappointing. Void of romance. This story reads like an essay on race relations where bullet points in the essay are illustrated through the prism of a White male, an upper middle class Public Defender who becomes a State Senator and A lower middle class equally well educated Black female, who leaves her teaching job to become a community organizer and lobbying on behalf of minority students. In part this "essay"/book seeks to differentiate between: prejudice, a preconceived opinion, a bigot or partisan who dogmatically expresses beliefs and opinions and a racist or one who believes in the superiority of one race over another and whose prejudices and biases are born out of racism. There is a lot to be said for books on this subject; but "Across The Tracks" slips through the cracks as a romance story... there are too many time jumps spanning too many years of non- contact between Rich and Lisa and their sex scenes are like salacious peep shows used to wake up readers; in general, it doesn't portray a loving interracial couple working out problems; instead, Lisa Johnson and Richard "Rich" Wells, Jr. are like stick figures on an illustration board of a lecturer.
September 5, 2015
Just when I thought I was starting to understand author Xyla Turner’s writing style she comes with “Across the Tracks”. Stepping outside of the normal comfort zone she is able to write a book that is able to entertain and challenge some of your own beliefs on a contentious subject. Across the Tracks is the second standalone book (Bombshell the first) that I have read by this author. The way that she writes can provide a full story that doesn’t make readers need a second book (even though they wouldn’t mind one) to feel the story is complete.
Rich: The definition of what it means to grow up “privileged”. Being used to having things handed to him he was more in awe of the person who decided to “challenge/ oppose” him. He goes from a past encounter that he has not remembrance of to the level of love despite being faced with many challenges and obstacles along the way. His character makes you realize that just because you were taught to believe one way situations can make you rethink and even grow to change them. True Love has the power to do the unthinkable.
Lisa: Growing up having to work for everything that you have in order to be successful may build a strong exterior but does not change the interior that still wants to feel loved and protected. Not afraid to stand up for what she believes or speak her mind she is faced with not being completely sure if she should give in to the growing attraction or run away. I am glad things turned out the way they did despite her being stubborn but sometimes it has to be that way…
This book takes on discussing a subject that many want to address yet are not comfortable dealing with in reality. It embarks on the task of showing you how two individuals from different cultures, social/ economic classes can overcome the challenges to embrace True Love… I am excited to see what Xyla has next!
Rich: The definition of what it means to grow up “privileged”. Being used to having things handed to him he was more in awe of the person who decided to “challenge/ oppose” him. He goes from a past encounter that he has not remembrance of to the level of love despite being faced with many challenges and obstacles along the way. His character makes you realize that just because you were taught to believe one way situations can make you rethink and even grow to change them. True Love has the power to do the unthinkable.
Lisa: Growing up having to work for everything that you have in order to be successful may build a strong exterior but does not change the interior that still wants to feel loved and protected. Not afraid to stand up for what she believes or speak her mind she is faced with not being completely sure if she should give in to the growing attraction or run away. I am glad things turned out the way they did despite her being stubborn but sometimes it has to be that way…
This book takes on discussing a subject that many want to address yet are not comfortable dealing with in reality. It embarks on the task of showing you how two individuals from different cultures, social/ economic classes can overcome the challenges to embrace True Love… I am excited to see what Xyla has next!
August 30, 2015
Good and poignant
Bombshell is still my favorite...but this comes close. I love the way Xyla explained the pure and raw feelings between Rich and Lisa . First comes hate...than when the haze is lifted and understanding and misconceptions are finally cleared....than comes love..based on shared values,love of oneself, knowledge of the mind and hearts, removing stereotypical barriers and realizing that all we are searching for as human beings is that one true unconditional love and acceptance by a chosen soul mate...everything else anyone has to say due to ignorance is just mindless noise.
Bombshell is still my favorite...but this comes close. I love the way Xyla explained the pure and raw feelings between Rich and Lisa . First comes hate...than when the haze is lifted and understanding and misconceptions are finally cleared....than comes love..based on shared values,love of oneself, knowledge of the mind and hearts, removing stereotypical barriers and realizing that all we are searching for as human beings is that one true unconditional love and acceptance by a chosen soul mate...everything else anyone has to say due to ignorance is just mindless noise.
November 23, 2019
Mostly, I liked this book. I admired Lisa’s fire and passion. I was gratified to see Rich’s transformation and re-education about the challenges facing the have nots, black & brown people. I was bothered by the fact that Lisa’s personality was dialed back once she and Rich became a couple. I didn’t see that coming, at all. I just don’t understand how a strong, outspoken black woman could be so noticeably diminished or overshadowed by other considerations. I know that with maturity comes wisdom and probably engenders more tempered or subtle changes in a person’s basic personality. In some respects, I saw some diminution of Lisa’s personality.
As is usual in this author’s books, the sex is erotic/scorching.
Why then did I give a lower rating you might inquire? The editing was very, very bad. Misused words abounded. Either dropped words or extra added words made some sentences nonsensical. These editing problems detract from a promising plot. When I find that I am rolling my eyes with increasing frequency, I start skimming—something an author wants to avoid at all costs.
As is usual in this author’s books, the sex is erotic/scorching.
Why then did I give a lower rating you might inquire? The editing was very, very bad. Misused words abounded. Either dropped words or extra added words made some sentences nonsensical. These editing problems detract from a promising plot. When I find that I am rolling my eyes with increasing frequency, I start skimming—something an author wants to avoid at all costs.
January 7, 2019
Interracial Romance A to Z Challenge: A
An expository essay about race in an interracial relationship with sex thrown in.
I have to admit that I was pleasantly surprised to see that, while Rich was prejudiced, he wasn't necessarily a neo-nazi who decided that, "Oh, black people are okay because I want to bang this black woman." I probably would have tossed the book because I loathe that subgenre. A lot. I find it extremely insulting. And another point of enjoyment was the subject matter because it is a topic that I enjoy seeing explored.
That doesn't mean that I liked the book though. All of the characters, including the mains, were annoying assholes. And expository writing is my second least favorite writing prose when it comes to fiction. It's boring. I didn't like Show & Tell as a child, I definitely don't want it in a romance novel.
An expository essay about race in an interracial relationship with sex thrown in.
I have to admit that I was pleasantly surprised to see that, while Rich was prejudiced, he wasn't necessarily a neo-nazi who decided that, "Oh, black people are okay because I want to bang this black woman." I probably would have tossed the book because I loathe that subgenre. A lot. I find it extremely insulting. And another point of enjoyment was the subject matter because it is a topic that I enjoy seeing explored.
That doesn't mean that I liked the book though. All of the characters, including the mains, were annoying assholes. And expository writing is my second least favorite writing prose when it comes to fiction. It's boring. I didn't like Show & Tell as a child, I definitely don't want it in a romance novel.
October 14, 2015
Short simple read, I think it touched some great topics and addressed them properly which was a nice touch.
Hmmm I am trying to find the right words here.. the book was short yes so I went in expecting some of it to run a little fast, and it did and that is probably the problem for me. Now some personally wouldn't consider anything missing but what I missed or felt like I didn't get is the connection with the characters. Now it jumped from attraction to sex.. three year gap and then love. I would have loved for her to maybe leave after let's say a week of them together and then bounce but after sex and bouncing for that long of a time... yeah connection not found for me personally even though he was all about her, I mean in 100% I just felt like she was only in about 50%. It didn't feel like she wanted it as much as he did.. so that's my hang up.... which brought me to my next small issue, since I didn't get the full connection with the characters.. the sex seemed almost a little dirty. and PLEASE note that I am NO prune...( I mean seriously look at my read list if you don't believe me 95% of the books i've read are filled with sex) it just felt.. odd. Like though it was "hot stuff" it just didn't feel right.
Idk.. I guess to each it's own, sometimes you read a book and love it and sometimes you read a book and just like it or sometimes it's just okay.
Hmmm I am trying to find the right words here.. the book was short yes so I went in expecting some of it to run a little fast, and it did and that is probably the problem for me. Now some personally wouldn't consider anything missing but what I missed or felt like I didn't get is the connection with the characters. Now it jumped from attraction to sex.. three year gap and then love. I would have loved for her to maybe leave after let's say a week of them together and then bounce but after sex and bouncing for that long of a time... yeah connection not found for me personally even though he was all about her, I mean in 100% I just felt like she was only in about 50%. It didn't feel like she wanted it as much as he did.. so that's my hang up.... which brought me to my next small issue, since I didn't get the full connection with the characters.. the sex seemed almost a little dirty. and PLEASE note that I am NO prune...( I mean seriously look at my read list if you don't believe me 95% of the books i've read are filled with sex) it just felt.. odd. Like though it was "hot stuff" it just didn't feel right.
Idk.. I guess to each it's own, sometimes you read a book and love it and sometimes you read a book and just like it or sometimes it's just okay.
November 4, 2015
Beautiful story of an interracial couple of Rich and Lisa who come from different backgrounds. Lisa and Rich were brought together by fate and they tried to deny their attraction for one another. Their passion overwhelms them and holds the love together. This a must read!
August 30, 2015
Loved it
Excellent job as always. I enjoyed this story to the fullest. What I liked most about the story is that it focused on real life issues. That to me is what made the book a great story and relatable. Nicely done and I am super excited to read you next release.
Excellent job as always. I enjoyed this story to the fullest. What I liked most about the story is that it focused on real life issues. That to me is what made the book a great story and relatable. Nicely done and I am super excited to read you next release.
November 26, 2018
This is my second book by this author. The only thing that turned me off was the lead “h”. I kept saying to myself, “man, she doesn’t quit.” 🙄🤦🏾♀️
I LOVE that Richard called her out. I applaud you, sir 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
The story kind of dragged for me but I enjoyed it. 3.5 stars.
I LOVE that Richard called her out. I applaud you, sir 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
The story kind of dragged for me but I enjoyed it. 3.5 stars.
September 1, 2015
The chemistry between Rich & Lisa was undeniable--despite their differences. Storyline held my attention as this story had meaningful content & good dialog between the characters. Great read!
November 5, 2015
Good Read
First time reading something from this Author, and I thought this was a great read. I loved the storyline and the characters I hope it will be more to they story .
First time reading something from this Author, and I thought this was a great read. I loved the storyline and the characters I hope it will be more to they story .
September 17, 2015
Another great read with unforgettable characters. I am now a bona fide fan of this author.
August 29, 2021
Disappointing. Their was absolutely NO romance. Their childhood meeting was referred once, like in passing at the beginning and then it's like the whole thing never happened and was of no special consequences. It's not used to build some sort of ties between the 2 leads. They met some years later, he is a prejudiced asshole, she read him for filth, apparently it's lust/love at first sight cause all of a sudden completely out of the blue, he kiss her WITHOUT her consent, TWICE, she literally stumbles in bed with him, they look into each other eyes, and become something like destined to each over. There is no build up. The story was all 'tell' and no show, regarding their insta-love as well as Rich's transformation. I disliked how pushy and demanding Rich was, like Lisa owed him. The Danny supblot just came and went. And the Tilda one felt borderline offensive, with undertones of 'magical black mama' trope. Skipped the last half of the book, including the sex scenes.
December 5, 2018
People can change
Rich and lisa story begin at a Basketball game between her Team and his. The rivalry between them on the court was a beginning for them.
Lisa and Rich are opposite on so many levels. However, you can't tell the heart who to love.
They encounter each other again in the Courtroom, and boy was it explosive. Not only did she embarrass Rich, She made him think about his life choices. Richs' father has a course ser for him whic does not include someone like Lisa.
Will these two opposites be able to weather what life throws their way? With the help of Rich's Assistant a Wise Jamacian women, they might just make it.
Feel in love with the first book Trent. This one was awesome also but Trent was the Man. Thanks love for this Spectacular series
Rich and lisa story begin at a Basketball game between her Team and his. The rivalry between them on the court was a beginning for them.
Lisa and Rich are opposite on so many levels. However, you can't tell the heart who to love.
They encounter each other again in the Courtroom, and boy was it explosive. Not only did she embarrass Rich, She made him think about his life choices. Richs' father has a course ser for him whic does not include someone like Lisa.
Will these two opposites be able to weather what life throws their way? With the help of Rich's Assistant a Wise Jamacian women, they might just make it.
Feel in love with the first book Trent. This one was awesome also but Trent was the Man. Thanks love for this Spectacular series
July 8, 2018
Disappointing
the premise of the story sounded quite interesting but the execution was not that great. I've read several books by this author and once I began reading and flowed so poorly in that I had to go back and find out when this book was written and discovered it was written back in 2015. So I think that Miss Turner has definitely improved her writing style and skill in the intervening years and more recent works are definitely worth a read. This one I just could not get into an think it would be really great if she went back and revised the story with her current-day skill level I think it could be really excellent
the premise of the story sounded quite interesting but the execution was not that great. I've read several books by this author and once I began reading and flowed so poorly in that I had to go back and find out when this book was written and discovered it was written back in 2015. So I think that Miss Turner has definitely improved her writing style and skill in the intervening years and more recent works are definitely worth a read. This one I just could not get into an think it would be really great if she went back and revised the story with her current-day skill level I think it could be really excellent
December 25, 2018
Great read with a strong yet vulnerable characters, each with their own issues stemming from their childhood. I liked how honest the hero was about what he wanted and the maturity of their interactions once they came together. As I’ve come to expect, the author interjects clever humor in her tales just so we don’t take the drama too much to heart.
Although a somewhat fast read, the pace was good and covered the storyline appropriately. In absence of reading about the hero and heroine in the next tales, an epilogue would have tied things nicely together. Still, a great read and I look forward to the next books in this series, my favorite so far being Trent: Across the Aisle.
Although a somewhat fast read, the pace was good and covered the storyline appropriately. In absence of reading about the hero and heroine in the next tales, an epilogue would have tied things nicely together. Still, a great read and I look forward to the next books in this series, my favorite so far being Trent: Across the Aisle.
June 15, 2019
Interracial Love
Me Turner did an excellent job with this book. I'm now invested with Lisa and Rich's story. I love the way they love each other. I also appreciate realistic Ms Turner wrote the experiences and characters. I could understand some of Lisa's hesitation with getting into a serious relationship with Rich, especially knowing the background and upbringing of both of them. I loved her spunk and earnest desire to fight for the under served.
What I still don't get is Lisa's friend Donny and his issues. I have a feeling he will return with some major crap.
I'm looking forward to seeing where Lisa and Rich are headed. Can't wait for the next installment.
Me Turner did an excellent job with this book. I'm now invested with Lisa and Rich's story. I love the way they love each other. I also appreciate realistic Ms Turner wrote the experiences and characters. I could understand some of Lisa's hesitation with getting into a serious relationship with Rich, especially knowing the background and upbringing of both of them. I loved her spunk and earnest desire to fight for the under served.
What I still don't get is Lisa's friend Donny and his issues. I have a feeling he will return with some major crap.
I'm looking forward to seeing where Lisa and Rich are headed. Can't wait for the next installment.
December 4, 2024
Couldn't finish the book 😔I thought it had a good concept but it needs work. it was all over the place with the timeline, then what was that with the sex parts? Why? Is like the author is embarrassed or ashamed to write about it, if that is the case then don't even mention it on the book it was a very sad attempt, take the writing towards something else the book had an interesting topic to write about but it was lacking in everything sadly, felt incomplete and rushed.
February 22, 2019
Reminiscent of known relationship
I absolutely loved this book . I’ve never read a book that so closely resembled my own story. I truly love BWWM romance novels as they are stories outside of the mainstream that need to be told. Most importantly knowing that love doesn’t have to be hemmed into a specific look, size or shape.
I absolutely loved this book . I’ve never read a book that so closely resembled my own story. I truly love BWWM romance novels as they are stories outside of the mainstream that need to be told. Most importantly knowing that love doesn’t have to be hemmed into a specific look, size or shape.
October 31, 2019
Rich and Lisa's story.
This is just not any interracial love story. Rich and Lisa could not stand each other in the beginning of their relationship. He was a hot shot lawyer for the DA's office and she was a teacher. It really is a good story. It's highly recommended reading. I have read quite a few of her stories.
This is just not any interracial love story. Rich and Lisa could not stand each other in the beginning of their relationship. He was a hot shot lawyer for the DA's office and she was a teacher. It really is a good story. It's highly recommended reading. I have read quite a few of her stories.
April 25, 2020
Excellent characters and story
With editing to remove verb tense issues and misused worfs that detracted from the story, it could be 5 stars. I loved this more than bombshell. I felt she showed more of the evolution of the characters.
I love Lisa & Rich. Secondary characters were memorable too.
With editing to remove verb tense issues and misused worfs that detracted from the story, it could be 5 stars. I loved this more than bombshell. I felt she showed more of the evolution of the characters.
I love Lisa & Rich. Secondary characters were memorable too.
July 26, 2020
Very good story
This is a very realistic story. Nothing is better then a story that is real life worthy the struggle of views on the different asides of the fence and yes no matter your race we all have beliefs. It’s awesome to see love bloom against all odds. De finally worth the read.
This is a very realistic story. Nothing is better then a story that is real life worthy the struggle of views on the different asides of the fence and yes no matter your race we all have beliefs. It’s awesome to see love bloom against all odds. De finally worth the read.
February 7, 2018
Very Good Read
Enjoyed this book...it deals with an interracial couple overnight racism on both sides. Loved the details of both families and how prejudice was overcome so these two could have their HEA.
Enjoyed this book...it deals with an interracial couple overnight racism on both sides. Loved the details of both families and how prejudice was overcome so these two could have their HEA.
August 18, 2018
Conscious book!!!
This book had a great message. I think it was told very well. I loved the characters and I liked the fact that they didn't call in love overnight. I like when books out time between when they meet and when they get married
This book had a great message. I think it was told very well. I loved the characters and I liked the fact that they didn't call in love overnight. I like when books out time between when they meet and when they get married
November 4, 2018
Brilliant!
Several thumbs up on this book. Well worth the purchase price and my time. The story had depth but more importantly; alpha love! It doesn’t get any better than this. All romance novel readers she have this book in their library. It’s a must have.
Several thumbs up on this book. Well worth the purchase price and my time. The story had depth but more importantly; alpha love! It doesn’t get any better than this. All romance novel readers she have this book in their library. It’s a must have.
November 12, 2018
A good read.
I really enjoyed this story, the sparks flying between Lisa and Rich were from the start. I liked how their romance evolved over a significant amount of time. Also they deal with some serious issues along the way.
I really enjoyed this story, the sparks flying between Lisa and Rich were from the start. I liked how their romance evolved over a significant amount of time. Also they deal with some serious issues along the way.
March 6, 2020
So Good
Omg! Xyla Turner writing is so amazing! This book grabbed my attention from the beginning & I couldn’t stop reading it! I love Rich & Lisa’s Story! They were a match made in Heaven and I’m happy they got their happily ever after!
Omg! Xyla Turner writing is so amazing! This book grabbed my attention from the beginning & I couldn’t stop reading it! I love Rich & Lisa’s Story! They were a match made in Heaven and I’m happy they got their happily ever after!
June 18, 2018
Linda Christiani
This story is about the challenge of interracial romance and add an alpha male who definitely knows what he wants makes a great read loving this author!!
This story is about the challenge of interracial romance and add an alpha male who definitely knows what he wants makes a great read loving this author!!
November 14, 2018
Enjoyed this book, it really touched on hot topics dealing with IR relationship, etc.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews