Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Open Spaces

Rate this book
Enter the world of Mika and Sedari, almost the perfect couple. Their love and devotion is complete except for the open spaces they have allowed to develop in their hearts. When Sedari's dangerous friendships and Mika's deadly past collide, destructive forces are unleashed that shake their marriage to its very foundations. Can they close their open spaces before being pulled so far apart that they may never find their way back to each other? Their marriage stands on the edge of the abyss. Can they stop the events that have been set in motion before blood is spilled and lives are lost? Open Spaces is powerful, entertaining, and honest fiction at its finest.

292 pages, Paperback

Published April 19, 2010

4 people are currently reading
27 people want to read

About the author

Keith Kareem Williams

36 books55 followers
Keith Kareem Williams is the author of over 20 books & 7 screenplays. He still resides in his hometown of Brooklyn, New York where he delicately balances his time between his responsibilities as a single father as well as the challenges of being a full-time author.
“In interviews, one of the most difficult questions I’ve been asked is, ‘What genre are your novels?’ because honestly, I never write with any particular style in mind. I enjoy blending styles and mashing different genres together in interesting ways. Basically, I pen whatever is in my heart and soul. However, if I had to describe my style I would use musical terms and say that I write Urban, Hip-Hop, fiction with the rhythm of Reggae that crashed into Heavy Metal and then began to bleed Neo Soul. I write Alternative Urban Fiction.”
One of the things I'm most proud of is how my children look at me with pride because I'm accomplishing my goals and doing the things I set out to do with my career. They recognize and respect my passion. I write constantly and I already have the titles & plots lined up for my next 92 novels. This is what I do and I'm just trying to let the rest of the world know this. My ambition is to become as legendary as some of the writers I admire. I believe that a GOOD writer pulls you into their story. A GREAT writer makes the world around you fall away as you read. The LEGENDARY writers tell stories that become a part of you and linger long after you've read the last line of the last chapter. It was once said that, the pen is mightier than the sword. I say to my fellow AUTHORS: Let's advance our craft until it's mightier than guns, grenades, bullets & nuclear bombs. If not, then put your pen down and fall back. Those of us who are serious about this will run you over as if we were riding in tanks.” – Keith Kareem Williams

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
30 (88%)
4 stars
3 (8%)
3 stars
1 (2%)
2 stars
0 (0%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
Profile Image for WriteVibeMagazine.
321 reviews19 followers
February 28, 2011
“Open Spaces” pulls readers into the world of Mika and Sedari and doesn’t let us go. They are the perfect example of how happiness on the outside doesn’t equal happiness in reality. At the first glance, they are a seemingly happily married couple. As time goes on, we learn that they have allowed temptation of the flesh to shake the very foundation of what they have built over the years. Each of them are individually wrestling with demons of their past while trying to do what is best for their son, Corey.


Sedari faces an overwhelming desire to give into the advances of Desiree, his brother’s ex-girlfriend. Having to deal with years of built up curiosity and attraction, Sedari finds it extremely difficult to resist the noticeably mutual feelings between him and Desiree. Desiree doesn’t have a problem making it known that she doesn’t respect Mika or their marriage; causing an immense amount of problems between the couple.


When Mika realizes there is something more than a friendship between Sedari and Desiree, she is devastated. Soon, she turns to other outlets of coping with her heartbreak. Her worst coping mechanism, Lee, threatens to destroy her marriage as well. Having feelings of nostalgia and not caring to hide it, Desiree blatantly loses interest in continuing to honor her marital vows at times.


Sedari and Mika are so wrapped up in dancing with their devils, that they almost don’t realize what they are doing to their son and their marriage. Will they forgive each other and move on from their past, or will it be too late?


There is no doubt that writing and creativity is Keith Williams’ God-given gift in life. I found it difficult to set the book down from beginning to end. He has an incredible gift of using words to create vivid scenes and settings throughout the story. The characters in this book are so well-developed that one can’t help but feel every bit of the emotional rollercoaster ride. The plot and twists were executed with near perfection and flow to make for an outstanding read. Keith definitely leaves readers wanting more.


After reading “Water Flows Under Doors”, Keith’s debut novel, I was instantly a fan of his writing style. “Open Spaces” shows the incredible amount of growth he has experienced as an author. I am very much looking forward to his future works and am certain fans of Urban Contemporary Fiction will feel the same way.


5 out of 5 Stars


Reviewed and Edited By: Kenya Mack
Profile Image for Kenya.
14 reviews
March 7, 2011
“Open Spaces” pulls readers into the world of Mika and Sedari and doesn’t let us go. They are the perfect example of how happiness on the outside doesn’t equal happiness in reality. At the first glance, they are a seemingly happily married couple. As time goes on, we learn that they have allowed temptation of the flesh to shake the very foundation of what they have built over the years. Each of them are individually wrestling with demons of their past while trying to do what is best for their son, Corey.

Sedari faces an overwhelming desire to give into the advances of Desiree, his brother’s ex-girlfriend. Having to deal with years of built up curiosity and attraction, Sedari finds it extremely difficult to resist the noticeably mutual feelings between him and Desiree. Desiree doesn’t have a problem making it known that she doesn’t respect Mika or their marriage; causing an immense amount of problems between the couple.

When Mika realizes there is something more than a friendship between Sedari and Desiree, she is devastated. Soon, she turns to other outlets of coping with her heartbreak. Her worst coping mechanism, Lee, threatens to destroy her marriage as well. Having feelings of nostalgia and not caring to hide it, Desiree blatantly loses interest in continuing to honor her marital vows at times.

Sedari and Mika are so wrapped up in dancing with their devils, that they almost don’t realize what they are doing to their son and their marriage. Will they forgive each other and move on from their past, or will it be too late?

There is no doubt that writing and creativity is Keith Williams’ God-given gift in life. I found it difficult to set the book down from beginning to end. He has an incredible gift of using words to create vivid scenes and settings throughout the story. The characters in this book are so well-developed that one can’t help but feel every bit of the emotional rollercoaster ride. The plot and twists were executed with near perfection and flow to make for an outstanding read. Keith definitely leaves readers wanting more.

After reading “Water Flows Under Doors”, Keith’s debut novel, I was instantly a fan of his writing style. “Open Spaces” shows the incredible amount of growth he has experienced as an author. I am very much looking forward to his future works and am certain fans of Urban Contemporary Fiction will feel the same way.
Profile Image for Portia Banks-cephus.
2 reviews1 follower
November 2, 2014

Let me start by saying that I really love this book. Open Spaces is the first book I've read by the author Keith Kareem Williams. This definitely will not be the last book I read from this author. I am a new fan of his work. I think that he's a very skillful writer and I am really impressed with his writing style. This book was a page turner. Once I started I could not put it down. The characters were so real, it was like I was eavesdropping on someone else's life. I was so affected emotionally by this story that I felt like I was on a roller coaster.

Open Spaces is a story about a married couple Mika and Sedari, who were very much in love but allowed open spaces in their relationship. Open spaces that were filled with things unsaid and people who were destructive or disruptive to their relationship. We follow Mika and Sedari on their journey to discover what love, trust, honesty and forgiveness in a relationship is all about. Will Mika and Sedari close these open spaces or will they allow these open spaces to ruin their marriage?

Keith Williams is an awesome talent. I can't wait to read his other books. I would highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Destiny “ Dee” .
208 reviews97 followers
September 29, 2014
This was a great book. It dealt with some real life issues such as love, marriage, commitment, forgiveness, friends of the opposite sex, infidelity, abuse,etc. This book hit home for me. Open Spaces develop in many marriages. It's how we close those open spaces that can bring us together or separate us from our spouse. This is my first book by this author,but won't be my last. The main characters Tamika aka Mika and Sedari aka Dari were a young married couple who allowed open spaces to come in. What happened and how Tamika and Sedari dealt with them will take you on an emotional rollercoaster. I love books like this that deal with real life issues. This book was well written. I loved Ant, Sedari's brother. He was the big brother that many men need. A big brother that will tell you like it is, be there for you, give you some truth, and sound advice, then hope and pray that you do the right thing. I recommend this book to every married woman or man and any woman or man who is considering marriage. Good job Keith Kareem Williams!
Profile Image for C. Lynette.
Author 3 books6 followers
September 16, 2015
Tamika and Sedari have a dynamic love that withstands the test of time. Open Spaces is a tale of what really happens between people; one whose past comes back and another whose "good friend" feels like more. We slip, we fall but then we work it out. Tamika was incredibly strong and sincere. Sedari, although a former thug, was a good and loving husband. He knew his limitations, but strived to provide more; making his jealousy and skepticism understandable. This is the first time I've read anything from this author and I look forward to reading more from Keith Williams.
Profile Image for Ann.
286 reviews
June 7, 2011
An excellent novel! Once again the author writes a masterfully layered story with engaging, real-world characters. Good intentions, evil desires, and plot twists keep the reader fully engaged page after page.
Haunting memories and a long term friendship seek to undermine a marriage from the inside out. A love story with too many lovers for peace and happiness...
You'll be surprised where they all end up.
Well done!
Profile Image for K Nikki  Waden.
433 reviews
December 15, 2011
I enjoyed this book from the first page to the last...I did like how he incorporated some of the characters from Water Flows under Door which is also a great read..This book had me going through so many emotions,and constantly switching sides due to some of the stupidity that was portrayed on both sides.I was very pleased with the ending..I am officially a fan of this author, both books left me wanting to read more from him
1 review
Currently reading
June 1, 2010
this book is off the charts im only now starting and im in love with it already
30 reviews
May 11, 2021
Title: Unique & Different

It is refreshing to get an inimitable perspective from a male point of view. This is one of those books where fiction and realism merge. In this thought-provoking story, receptive readers will learn nuances of consequences when room is permitted for others to be allowed into an already complicated marriage. Mr. Williams weaves a great tale and in it there are some astonishments along the way in this page turner.
Profile Image for Ang.
930 reviews1 follower
February 18, 2023
Wave of emotions

This story has me in my feelings. I was mad, angry, pissed, happy & relieved. So many emotions as I read went thru my mind like I was the characters.
Profile Image for Shonique.
56 reviews
April 13, 2018
This was a great read an emotional story. However it demonstrated the highs and lows of love. The author’s storytelling gift took for an experience through the love of these characters (Mika & Sedari). I could phantom taking on their separate issues but it’s life. Fan for life Keith Kareem Williams. Reading is an adventure can’t wait to take the next journey through your gift of literature.
Profile Image for Sistar Tea.
294 reviews
September 16, 2010
Let no man out us under

This is my second read by Mr. Williams and this man has a way with words that will draw you in and have you turning pages to see what’s going to happen next. He is a pure story teller and has quickly made a supporter of me. This is one of the best books I’ve EVER read, “Open Spaces” is so descriptive you feel like it’s a movie playing out right before your very eyes. This author has some serious skills and will be one to look out for.

Mika is “happily” married with a son, Corey. As we follow the family we see they (Mika and her husband Sadari) both have issues with the marriage. Mika’s main issue is with Sadari’s best friend Desiree who happens to be her brother-in law’s ex-girlfriend. Everyone except her husband can see that she is in love with him. Mika is a dedicated wife with the best interest of her family on the fore front. When she discovers a lie by her husband her world is shattered and she reacts.

Sadari is a hardworking man doing his best to be a stand-up guy and take care of his family. When his wife became pregnant he left the streets alone and started working a 9-5, and although there is never enough money he keeps on trucking. One night a little white lie on his part sets of a chain of events that make this novel a must read. When his wife Mika bumps into her first lover (Lee) the actions of his white lie cause her to kick it with Lee. As we read we see what we thought was a rock solid marriage gets rocked to the core and it’s no telling if they will survive.

I’ll be the first to admit that reading about couple’s marriage problems is nothing new but it has NEVER been written about like this. You will be undecided if you want them to stay together or just call it quits. This is a perfect example of for every action there is an equal reaction. All the problems of this couple can be brought back to a split decision Sadari makes to tell his wife a lie while he helps Desiree and it goes downhill from then. Mr. Williams takes you through every emotion this family goes through. I was very pleased with the end. I commend Mr. Keith Williams for becoming one of my favorites and I look forward to reading his next novel.

SiStar Tea
ARC Book Club Inc.
5 star rating
Profile Image for Carmen Blalock.
262 reviews15 followers
September 18, 2013
Love is the most beautiful and complicated emotion that you will ever go through. There are times when all you can see is hearts and flowers when looking at the person that you love. Then there are times when you feel like you can't breathe another breath if that person is not near you. Love is supposed to be a partnership not an obsession, although when that happens the best thing to do is pray that everything clears up and everyone comes out of it unscathed.

Tamika and Sedari Best are married and madly in love with each other. They have loved each other since they first laid eyes upon each other. They gave up their former lives to make the life that they currently have with their son Corey. Times have sometimes been a struggle but their love for each other has outweighed the struggle. Life is moving along smoothly until Sedari's friend Desiree creates more and more waves just because she can. Though Desiree acknowledges that Sedari is married, she has always wondered what it would be like to walk in Tamika's shoes and be his wife. Desiree will stop at nothing to make it known how she feels about Sedari, including disrespecting Tamika! Through a series of events, each of their past is coming back to haunt them. The only question is how do you run from your past or do you stand still and let it destroy you? Can their love survive this haunting or will this be the end of this once happy couple?

Open Spaces is a very interesting tale of love, pain, obsession, jealousy, lies and truth. The story reads so clearly that I often found myself in pain or turmoil with the characters. It is truly a story that could be my life or yours. The character interaction is written like a motion movie with all of the emotions running across the screen. I enjoyed reading this novel between tears, I can't wait to read more from Williams.
Profile Image for Michelle  Davis.
310 reviews20 followers
April 30, 2016
This author was introduced and referred to me by one of my sistergirls and I can only say WHY DID I JUST FIND OUT ABOUT KEITH KAREEM WILLIAMS!! This book is 100% awesome and reads with an authenticity like none that I’ve read in quite a while. Only one other author comes to mind that recently solicited this level of emotion from me. I would honestly be unable to tell which one would get the top spot in my mind because they both far exceeded ALL of my expectations. The emotions in the book were just stark, raw, real, and quite frankly just plain honest. The situations that we find Sedari and Tamika embroiled in were very believable. There love story could have been mine, a family members, or the people next door. This in and of itself shines a light on the brilliance of this author. He was able to take everyday people who have to deal with issues that arise in their seemingly perfect love story and keep me intrigued from beginning to end. One minute I was crying and the next I felt the anguish in my heart as they experienced each situation. This book is one that MUST be read by ALL. I don’t want to give away the story but this writer has an AWESOME future ahead of him with the sheer genius that he displays while wielding his weapon, the pen. Kudos Mr. Keith Kareem Williams. I will eagerly be purchasing more books because this level of talent is rare to find and once one is lucky to find the brilliant light that it casts, they would be foolish not to continuously allow it to illuminate their soul!!!
Profile Image for MidnightAce.
189 reviews
June 1, 2014
Fellow readers, let me first admit my library is limited with male authors, for no certain reason, as well as what I thought was an urban genre, which it is soooooo much more.

This read is my second from this author, will definitely not be the last. The storyline was packed with a punch of so many emotions; love, pain, obsession, jealousy, deceit, and misplaced anger, as you read you felt like you yourself was on an emotional ride. No question Sadari and Tamika was in love, while moving away from their former lives, it appeared that they still carried a deep connection to it. Love can be wonderful and reckless at the same time, and you see how one response to certain situations can have an affect, not only their life, but the lives of many others. When doubt begins to set in to a relationship and is not addressed, you leave open spaces that allows the enemy to come in and destroy.

The read had a great flow with real life issues and I enjoyed the interaction with the characters, the events in the lives of each of them kept you on the edge and kept you wanted more. I liked how the author included characters from Water Flows under Doors. Would have like to see what happen to Tyler.

This authors' titles are ones you don't want to sleep on. He has made a place on my shelf.








Profile Image for Mrs..
5,978 reviews105 followers
December 21, 2016
Boy Bye!

Open Spaces was yet another profound piece of writing by this talented writer, and story teller. Open Spaces spoke about how a couples marriage can drift apart with just a small crack. It can be devastating when the crack slowly turns into a chasm. Mika and Sedari drifted apart by allowing two ex's to get inside their once stable marriage. Infidelity, heartbreak, and shame occurred before Mina and Sedari allowed their love to be a bridge for reconciliation. Bravo Keith Kareem Williams!
Profile Image for Kayla Thomas.
Author 15 books29 followers
April 21, 2016
I almost threw my phone several times while reading this book. This tortured couple made me crazy, broke my heart, and stitched it back up again. Williams has created a passionate, emotional, suspense filled story.
Profile Image for Anita L. Roseboro-Wade.
75 reviews30 followers
June 4, 2015
Sacrifices of love

Keith has written an excellent story of love, forgiveness, and healing. Marriage is not always all glitz and glamor. It is hard work, and sometimes you have to make sacrifices to save what you love.
Profile Image for Ebonynicole.
2 reviews4 followers
August 26, 2012
This was a great read.it was full of twists and turns that you wouldn't believe.I love Keith's way of writing.
Profile Image for Paula Chavis.
4 reviews
October 24, 2012
Great book. I connected with the characters easily and could feel there joy and their pains. A great ready.
Profile Image for Kat.
229 reviews17 followers
December 6, 2014
Open Spaces was just ok. Mika and Sadari were immature. Can't say I would recommend this book. This is the first book I've read by Keith Williams but I'll give him another try.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.