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Who Is He To You
Simone, a shockingly beautiful teen, is on the downward spiral of destruction as she battles incest and self-hatred; she finds cutting to be the only way to relieve her pain. Jessica lives the upscale lifestyle of a refined society matron. She strives to be the perfect wife, but without her husband, Ross, she would be nothing more than the abused stripper he rescued 16 years ago. Ryan, a fiery thirty-something, is quickly slipping into depression and prescription drug-addiction as her boyfriend, Anthony, artfully dangles the empty promise of marriage. As the shattered lives of three very different women collide, they find that they have one thing in they are all in a desperate fight to hang on to love. But when love involves incest, self-mutilation, drug-addiction and murder, will they continue to fight or will they find the strength to escape before it's too late? Experience their emotional journey through to the shocking end where these women will experience injury, imprisonment and even death while crafting new lives from the ashes of their ruination.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2009
36 people are currently reading
661 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
December 24, 2009
Jessica, Simone, and Ryan are three very different women in terms of their stations in life, but, at the same time, they were very much the same. Beautiful Simone, put on the face of a “perfect daughter,” while suffering the unspeakable at the hands of the unlikeliest of men. Jessica played the role of the perfect wife for a man who treated her like anything but, trying hide a painful past while burying the best part of herself And Ryan performed as the perfect girlfriend whose blinders were slowly coming off to reveal a man she’d loved—but didn’t really know. Each lived a lie for the men they loved, lies that eventually would entwine them, sparking some startling revelations.
First, let me preface this review by saying that few books hold my attention to the extent that I can read it in fewer than a couple of days…I read this book in less than 24 hours. Could not put it down! Ms. Mensah has written an entertaining, riveting, and compelling novel with Who Is He to You? From the first chapter to the very last, I truly was captivated as I watched the lives of these characters unfold. Although I could not relate from personal experience, they became very real to me as they battled their personal demons and addictions while trying to maintain their seemingly perfect exteriors. Although I figured out the twist about a third of the way through the novel, that in no way shape or form deterred me from reading a single solitary word. The author revealed the cleverly-crafted layers of their heartbreaking lives in such a gripping way that I was hooked until the last period. I highly recommend Ms. Mensah’s outstanding debut.
First, let me preface this review by saying that few books hold my attention to the extent that I can read it in fewer than a couple of days…I read this book in less than 24 hours. Could not put it down! Ms. Mensah has written an entertaining, riveting, and compelling novel with Who Is He to You? From the first chapter to the very last, I truly was captivated as I watched the lives of these characters unfold. Although I could not relate from personal experience, they became very real to me as they battled their personal demons and addictions while trying to maintain their seemingly perfect exteriors. Although I figured out the twist about a third of the way through the novel, that in no way shape or form deterred me from reading a single solitary word. The author revealed the cleverly-crafted layers of their heartbreaking lives in such a gripping way that I was hooked until the last period. I highly recommend Ms. Mensah’s outstanding debut.
March 11, 2011
This is an awesome book. The author takes you on an emotional roller-coaster. I wanted cry, laugh, cringe and just slap that damn horrid man! This is the kind of book that would make a wonder movie. I would recommend it to anyone. Wonderful, wonderful story.
January 10, 2010
This Too Shall Pass,
Three women are dealing with emotional turmoil and toxic relationships. Simone, a beautiful fourteen-year-old, is the victim of sexual abuse at the hands of the one person that should love and protect her - her father. Wishing daily that she'll die, she resorts to cutting herself.
Jessica is unhappily married. Her picture perfect marriage isn't what it used to be. Her once loving and doting husband is now cold and distant. Wishing daily that things will change, she keeps up the façade of a perfect life.
Ryan is in a relationship, but someone should tell her boyfriend that. The lies, missed dates, and arguments are increasing. Ryan is slipping deeper and deeper into an abyss of depressions and self medication. Wishing daily for a marriage proposal, she will do whatever it takes to keep her man, even at the cost of her sanity.
The women created by Monique Mensah are raw and real. Mensah does an excellent job of submerging readers into each character's plight, especially Simone, as she conveys the depths of the women's emotions. WHO IS HE TO YOU can be tough to read at times yet easy to believe. It delivers a poignant message.
WHO IS HE TO YOU is an impressive debut.
Reviewed by: Toni
Three women are dealing with emotional turmoil and toxic relationships. Simone, a beautiful fourteen-year-old, is the victim of sexual abuse at the hands of the one person that should love and protect her - her father. Wishing daily that she'll die, she resorts to cutting herself.
Jessica is unhappily married. Her picture perfect marriage isn't what it used to be. Her once loving and doting husband is now cold and distant. Wishing daily that things will change, she keeps up the façade of a perfect life.
Ryan is in a relationship, but someone should tell her boyfriend that. The lies, missed dates, and arguments are increasing. Ryan is slipping deeper and deeper into an abyss of depressions and self medication. Wishing daily for a marriage proposal, she will do whatever it takes to keep her man, even at the cost of her sanity.
The women created by Monique Mensah are raw and real. Mensah does an excellent job of submerging readers into each character's plight, especially Simone, as she conveys the depths of the women's emotions. WHO IS HE TO YOU can be tough to read at times yet easy to believe. It delivers a poignant message.
WHO IS HE TO YOU is an impressive debut.
Reviewed by: Toni
October 30, 2009
Who is He to you was an awesome beginning for Monique D. Mensah. When I say this author is talented you will underestimate just what I think until you actually read this book. It focuses around three women a young girl who is being molested by her father; a woman in love with a man who want give her a commitment, and a wife who has all the money in the world but her husband as a roaming eye. You will not believe how these women are connected. When I discovered the connection I screamed so loud in excitement and in awe that I disturbed my family. I really enjoyed this book because of Mensha’s talent to draw you into a book and read between the lines. She created a story so good that you are hit with a BOOM so big that you never saw it coming. Would say this is one of the best books I read thus far. Absolutely! If Mensah can come back with another page turner like this she will absolutely be one of my favorite authors of all time. Now this is an up and coming author to know.
Tamika newhouse
AAMBC Reviewer
Tamika newhouse
AAMBC Reviewer
March 23, 2012
Wow. This was a powerful and moving book.
I was a little disappointed that what (really "the who") I suspected early in the book, turned out to be accurate.
But this is an excellent book for people (men and women) who haven't yet discovered that you have to love yourself before you can love some one or expect love from someone else.
Rae
I was a little disappointed that what (really "the who") I suspected early in the book, turned out to be accurate.
But this is an excellent book for people (men and women) who haven't yet discovered that you have to love yourself before you can love some one or expect love from someone else.
Rae
January 24, 2012
I was looking for what genre to classify Who Is He To You in, both B&N and Amazon have it listed under drama, which is very fitting. This is a drama filled book all three of three of the female main characters experience nothing buy drama, rarely is there a normal moment in their lives.
Before I get to the drama and the main characters, let discuss the title. For me the title Who Is He To You gave away the twist in the book (there is always the fact that I think there should be a question mark). Combine the title with other clues in the book, I knew the twist before I got to it. In fact, it frustrated me that Mensah waited so long for the big reveal, when everything fell into place. Then there were times when I wonder if the author was awry of the fact that the puzzle was so easy to piece together for me the reader and she did it intentionally. But either way, when the big reveal finally came out, I merely shrugged my shoulders. Kind of disappointed that she used the method that she did.
I have read plenty of reviews on this book and looked forward to reading it. I really wanted to get to know each of the characters and about their lives. Instead, I ended up finding out that all the characters were damaged. Not just slight imperfections, but truly emotionally, psychologically damaged. Each and everyone of them (mainly the main characters and most of the secondary characters). All of them needed counseling and probably a couple of prescriptions. It made it hard for me to root for any of them.
Simone is 14 years old, beautiful and being molested by her father. She is the character that the reader is suppose to be the most sympathetic to because of her situation and her age. At times I felt think shaking her. There is one chapter where she ignores all the warning signs (even her own misgiving) and walks straight into a dangerous situation. All I could think was that I saw this coming, she saw this coming why did she walk straight into it. Why is she surprised at the outcome? Out of all the characters I liked her the most. Even if I felt that her character was inconstant at times.
Jessica is Simone's mother and completely unaware of what is going on between Simone and her father. She has issues from her past that affect her self-esteem. She doesn't feel that she deserves the life that she has been given. Her relationship with Simone's father, Ross, is so unbalanced and she just wants to keep her family together.
The synopsis doesn't even began to fully explain the crazy mess that is Ryan. She basically is a mess. Mensah describes Ryan as a woman with an addiction, to drugs and love. Really, what seems to be the problem is that she suffers from at most a panic disorder and probably a mood disorder. I really didn't like how this was glanced or and so easily resolved. After breaking up with Anthony (aka Ross), she was able to overcome her addiction to pain killers and him in three days. Not very realistic at all.
Anthony/Ross is the most disturbed at all. He justifies his molesting of his daughter because of some Oedipus complex crap he had for his mother. He justifies his treatment of his wife because she was too willing to please. And his affair with Ryan was because he was his father's son.
I did like the plot. I liked how Mensah gave the reader background on Anthony/Ross and how he became the man that became. She did the same thing with Jessica which later helped justify some of the things that she was willing to do and did. I only wish that she had done the same thing with Ryan, who felt kind of incomplete.
Even though I didn't like the characters I did like the story overall. I wanted to see what happened and how it played out. The last 200 "pages" went by quickly, the action really picked up and I was on the edge of my seat to see what happen next. It didn't quite play out like I thought it would. And Mensah did end up wrapping everything up with a little bow, but I think the whole mess ended the why that it should have.
Overall Recommendation:
I would recommend this book. Monique D. Mensah is a good story teller. I have a feeling that the next books in the series will be better and I am going to read them. From what I can gather the next one can be read as a standalone. I am interested to see what Mensah thinks of next.
Before I get to the drama and the main characters, let discuss the title. For me the title Who Is He To You gave away the twist in the book (there is always the fact that I think there should be a question mark). Combine the title with other clues in the book, I knew the twist before I got to it. In fact, it frustrated me that Mensah waited so long for the big reveal, when everything fell into place. Then there were times when I wonder if the author was awry of the fact that the puzzle was so easy to piece together for me the reader and she did it intentionally. But either way, when the big reveal finally came out, I merely shrugged my shoulders. Kind of disappointed that she used the method that she did.
I have read plenty of reviews on this book and looked forward to reading it. I really wanted to get to know each of the characters and about their lives. Instead, I ended up finding out that all the characters were damaged. Not just slight imperfections, but truly emotionally, psychologically damaged. Each and everyone of them (mainly the main characters and most of the secondary characters). All of them needed counseling and probably a couple of prescriptions. It made it hard for me to root for any of them.
Simone is 14 years old, beautiful and being molested by her father. She is the character that the reader is suppose to be the most sympathetic to because of her situation and her age. At times I felt think shaking her. There is one chapter where she ignores all the warning signs (even her own misgiving) and walks straight into a dangerous situation. All I could think was that I saw this coming, she saw this coming why did she walk straight into it. Why is she surprised at the outcome? Out of all the characters I liked her the most. Even if I felt that her character was inconstant at times.
Jessica is Simone's mother and completely unaware of what is going on between Simone and her father. She has issues from her past that affect her self-esteem. She doesn't feel that she deserves the life that she has been given. Her relationship with Simone's father, Ross, is so unbalanced and she just wants to keep her family together.
The synopsis doesn't even began to fully explain the crazy mess that is Ryan. She basically is a mess. Mensah describes Ryan as a woman with an addiction, to drugs and love. Really, what seems to be the problem is that she suffers from at most a panic disorder and probably a mood disorder. I really didn't like how this was glanced or and so easily resolved. After breaking up with Anthony (aka Ross), she was able to overcome her addiction to pain killers and him in three days. Not very realistic at all.
Anthony/Ross is the most disturbed at all. He justifies his molesting of his daughter because of some Oedipus complex crap he had for his mother. He justifies his treatment of his wife because she was too willing to please. And his affair with Ryan was because he was his father's son.
I did like the plot. I liked how Mensah gave the reader background on Anthony/Ross and how he became the man that became. She did the same thing with Jessica which later helped justify some of the things that she was willing to do and did. I only wish that she had done the same thing with Ryan, who felt kind of incomplete.
Even though I didn't like the characters I did like the story overall. I wanted to see what happened and how it played out. The last 200 "pages" went by quickly, the action really picked up and I was on the edge of my seat to see what happen next. It didn't quite play out like I thought it would. And Mensah did end up wrapping everything up with a little bow, but I think the whole mess ended the why that it should have.
Overall Recommendation:
I would recommend this book. Monique D. Mensah is a good story teller. I have a feeling that the next books in the series will be better and I am going to read them. From what I can gather the next one can be read as a standalone. I am interested to see what Mensah thinks of next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2010
A good book with universal themes from a talented new author. The plot is filled with drama and a few twists that kept me rooted to my chair. This author has a true understanding of how many different kinds of women think and finds a way to make the reader embrace them all.
June 11, 2011
I loved this book from beginning to end. I enjoyed the development of the characters and was surprised how at the end all Ryan, Jessica, and Ryan had relationships that proved to be related in some form or fashion. Great read and I enjoyed meeting Monica Mensah in Houston.
June 12, 2014
Wow!
This is my first novel by Miss Mensah, and when I tell you that my mouth is still slightly open from the life this book has given me!!! No words needs to be spoken. Going into detail is irrelevant at this point, but I must admit that I had slight problems with the editing. But anyways, I HIGHLY suggest you to one-click, order, or whatever you do, this book RIGHT NOW!!! You WILL NOT be disappointed and I will definitely be checking out the next novel.
This is my first novel by Miss Mensah, and when I tell you that my mouth is still slightly open from the life this book has given me!!! No words needs to be spoken. Going into detail is irrelevant at this point, but I must admit that I had slight problems with the editing. But anyways, I HIGHLY suggest you to one-click, order, or whatever you do, this book RIGHT NOW!!! You WILL NOT be disappointed and I will definitely be checking out the next novel.
November 7, 2011
I can't wait to read Inside Rain and Smoke Screen. This book kept my attention throughout, I was about 80% into it when it hit me like an epiphany, how the title tied into the story, which just peaked my interest even more to see what happened next. Definitely left me wanting more.
October 25, 2022
Wooooooooow!!! What a roller coaster!!! An amazing book!! I don't remember how I found out about this book and added it to Goodreads in 2012 but here we are in 2022 and oh-my-God! I have a new favorite author!! I will say that this book has major triggers. After reading the first couple sections on Simone, I had to skip a few of her's until I realized what was going on.
April 26, 2022
This book covered a very sensitive topics; however, it was well written. I loved the story and the realism that it portrayed. I fell in love with each character except for Ross. This was an excellent read.
June 3, 2017
The book was good to me! The characters were real!
July 22, 2019
This book was very engaging and well-written. It took me though a wide-range of emotions that left me breathless by the end. Monique D. Mensah is truly a gifted storyteller.
November 6, 2019
Loved how it all unfolded I couldn’t put this book down the author is brilliant
March 2, 2012
A Distinctive Story
This is my second read by this author. I started with "Inside Rain" first. I was very impressed by her writing style and her unique way of conveying the story. After hearing a fellow book club member rave about this title, I decided to read it. I am elated that I read this book. This was one of the best books I’ve ever read. This novel has the perfect title, can’t see any other for this story. I see a pattern with the titles; they make the most sense after you have read the book a knack not so easily captured by many.
Simone is a fourteen year old not-so-typical teenager. She comes from an affluent family and goes to the best private school. What makes her not so typical - her self esteem is so low because of the abuse she suffers at the hands of the one person who is not supposed to do any harm to her. In school, the kids are so rude to her because of jealousy. Simone has beauty they all want. Self hatred is what she lives for. Simone starts to hurt herself more than her abuser. Will she find away to stop the pain?
Ryan is a natural beauty who is dealing with emotional issues. Her way of dealing is to pop prescription pills. Her addiction includes her boyfriend Anthony. Anthony is feeding her empty promises. Ryan is losing her mind trying to keep him and be his one and only. Will he finally commit to her or cause her to lose her mind?
Jessica is a devoted wife and mother. Perception is everything in her world. Trying to outlive a horrid upbringing, she is living for her husband Ross. Jessica is raising the perfect daughter. Can she be the perfect wife? Will she ever understand what it is her husband desires?
Simone's dad has a cameo chapter that will shed a little light on the situation and how his tormented mind works. This was a much need chapter, which was the key to this novel in my eyes.
When you finish this well written masterpiece, the word WOW will be an understatement. When it’s all said and done you will crave more. Thankfully there is a follow up (“Smoke Screen") which I can’t wait to start and see what becomes of these troubled women. This author is a true bright spot and one to be on the lookout for with her pure talent. She is a true storyteller that leaves no stone left unturned, and deals with issues that affect us because that’s how it’s written, as if we can relate.
SiStar Tea
ARC book Club Inc.
5 star rating
March 1st 2012
This is my second read by this author. I started with "Inside Rain" first. I was very impressed by her writing style and her unique way of conveying the story. After hearing a fellow book club member rave about this title, I decided to read it. I am elated that I read this book. This was one of the best books I’ve ever read. This novel has the perfect title, can’t see any other for this story. I see a pattern with the titles; they make the most sense after you have read the book a knack not so easily captured by many.
Simone is a fourteen year old not-so-typical teenager. She comes from an affluent family and goes to the best private school. What makes her not so typical - her self esteem is so low because of the abuse she suffers at the hands of the one person who is not supposed to do any harm to her. In school, the kids are so rude to her because of jealousy. Simone has beauty they all want. Self hatred is what she lives for. Simone starts to hurt herself more than her abuser. Will she find away to stop the pain?
Ryan is a natural beauty who is dealing with emotional issues. Her way of dealing is to pop prescription pills. Her addiction includes her boyfriend Anthony. Anthony is feeding her empty promises. Ryan is losing her mind trying to keep him and be his one and only. Will he finally commit to her or cause her to lose her mind?
Jessica is a devoted wife and mother. Perception is everything in her world. Trying to outlive a horrid upbringing, she is living for her husband Ross. Jessica is raising the perfect daughter. Can she be the perfect wife? Will she ever understand what it is her husband desires?
Simone's dad has a cameo chapter that will shed a little light on the situation and how his tormented mind works. This was a much need chapter, which was the key to this novel in my eyes.
When you finish this well written masterpiece, the word WOW will be an understatement. When it’s all said and done you will crave more. Thankfully there is a follow up (“Smoke Screen") which I can’t wait to start and see what becomes of these troubled women. This author is a true bright spot and one to be on the lookout for with her pure talent. She is a true storyteller that leaves no stone left unturned, and deals with issues that affect us because that’s how it’s written, as if we can relate.
SiStar Tea
ARC book Club Inc.
5 star rating
March 1st 2012
October 15, 2009
Some Kind of Love…
Who Is He To You by Monique D. Mensah is a story of three very different individuals who will soon realize…that nothing is as it seems. The reader is first introduced to Simone, a beautiful teenaged girl, who attends a prestigious private school. With Simone's looks, she is the envy of many girls. What those girls do not realize is that Simone would gladly hand over her beauty if it meant she could be normal like them. With her beauty there comes a curse.
Jessica may have come from humble beginnings but she now lives a lavish lifestyle. She is married to Ross, a high profile attorney. Jessica's sole purpose in life is to be the "perfect wife." They live in a mansion with a maid. Do not be fooled though, because all that glitters is not gold. Jessica senses a noticeable change in her relationship with Ross and she will do anything to keep her marriage intact.
Ryan is hopelessly in love with her boyfriend, Anthony. She is in her mid-thirties and desperately holds on to the dream of them being married, regardless of Anthony's disrespect and lies. Not sure of how much else she can tolerate, she slowly slips into a deep depression, starts seeing a psychiatrist and begins taking medication. Will she be able to let go before it is too late?
Who Is He To You by Monique D. Mensah is an excellent debut novel. This is a story you would expect to premiere as a Lifetime movie; a story so hauntingly sad and achingly heart wrenching. Ms. Mensah writes with such detail you are sure to feel as if you are reading a diary of sorts because of the rawness and realness of it all. Who Is He To You is one of the best books I have read this year. It is highly recommended for your reading pleasure.
Reviewed by Leona
APOOO BookClub
Who Is He To You by Monique D. Mensah is a story of three very different individuals who will soon realize…that nothing is as it seems. The reader is first introduced to Simone, a beautiful teenaged girl, who attends a prestigious private school. With Simone's looks, she is the envy of many girls. What those girls do not realize is that Simone would gladly hand over her beauty if it meant she could be normal like them. With her beauty there comes a curse.
Jessica may have come from humble beginnings but she now lives a lavish lifestyle. She is married to Ross, a high profile attorney. Jessica's sole purpose in life is to be the "perfect wife." They live in a mansion with a maid. Do not be fooled though, because all that glitters is not gold. Jessica senses a noticeable change in her relationship with Ross and she will do anything to keep her marriage intact.
Ryan is hopelessly in love with her boyfriend, Anthony. She is in her mid-thirties and desperately holds on to the dream of them being married, regardless of Anthony's disrespect and lies. Not sure of how much else she can tolerate, she slowly slips into a deep depression, starts seeing a psychiatrist and begins taking medication. Will she be able to let go before it is too late?
Who Is He To You by Monique D. Mensah is an excellent debut novel. This is a story you would expect to premiere as a Lifetime movie; a story so hauntingly sad and achingly heart wrenching. Ms. Mensah writes with such detail you are sure to feel as if you are reading a diary of sorts because of the rawness and realness of it all. Who Is He To You is one of the best books I have read this year. It is highly recommended for your reading pleasure.
Reviewed by Leona
APOOO BookClub
November 11, 2011
The title morphs into three female characters and what "he" means to all of them. This novel starts off to be likeable to loveable because of the myriad of emotions between the characters especially Simone! She brings each character to their fullest potential, where you are there in the room with them and have to remind yourself--you are just reading a book, not watching a movie or nearby. The emotional roller coaster of these women: victim, vulnerable, and violence by vile men. Moreover, these stories need to be released, and no longer hidden or taboo.
"Who is He to You" is captivating, riveting story that blends a mix of emotions and mortified once I got midway through the book to the chapter entitled "Simone's Father." Once Monique D. Mensah, the author, exploits the transgressions of the father emerging into the mindset of the Freudian Oedipus' complex. Mensah is the first author that I've read who actually fulfills the curiosity of the Freudian psychological theories or myths. Consequently, some would say this book is predictable but I would argue it was well-calculated, each word and flow of the story including emotions along the way!
This novel I would highly recommend for Domestic Violence Awareness Month, self-esteem and bullying for the youth, and anyone who has suffered from any form of abuse or rape. This book in the first chapters is so on point about such abuse! There are so many women who have experienced abuse from a parent, dating partner, or married partner, friends, or relatives. Perfect timing for me to reading this literature. 4.5/5 rating.
"Who is He to You" is captivating, riveting story that blends a mix of emotions and mortified once I got midway through the book to the chapter entitled "Simone's Father." Once Monique D. Mensah, the author, exploits the transgressions of the father emerging into the mindset of the Freudian Oedipus' complex. Mensah is the first author that I've read who actually fulfills the curiosity of the Freudian psychological theories or myths. Consequently, some would say this book is predictable but I would argue it was well-calculated, each word and flow of the story including emotions along the way!
This novel I would highly recommend for Domestic Violence Awareness Month, self-esteem and bullying for the youth, and anyone who has suffered from any form of abuse or rape. This book in the first chapters is so on point about such abuse! There are so many women who have experienced abuse from a parent, dating partner, or married partner, friends, or relatives. Perfect timing for me to reading this literature. 4.5/5 rating.
August 29, 2010
Like no other fictional book I've ever read! Two thumbs up for Mensah!
Being an avid reader, I must admit that a book over 240 pages usually does not keep my attention. I can assure you that this one will. Simone the main character in this book lives one terrible life. Only 14 years of age she endures both family related stress as well as school dysfunction. They say that sometimes beauty can be a curse and in this case it truly was. Born a bi-racial child to parents Jessica and Anthony Pembroke, Jessica not only catches hell at school with jealous young ladies and young men with their hormones racing everywhere, a family member ends up desiring, wanting, and having the wrong type of love for their very own child. The twist and turns in this book keep you flipping the pages only leaving you wanting more.
Other characters in this book such as Ryan only add more to this very exciting plot. As Ryan enters into a hard but yet "self love" phase in her life, she comes to also find that in the process of loving herself, she unintentionally ends up saving a teenagers life. I'm looking forward to reading Mensah's next book. I'm curious to find out how Simone is coping with everything that has happened to her thus so far.
Adra Young
Author of: The Everyday Living of Children & Teens Monologues Series
Socialization Skills Provider for the Detroit Impact Center
Being an avid reader, I must admit that a book over 240 pages usually does not keep my attention. I can assure you that this one will. Simone the main character in this book lives one terrible life. Only 14 years of age she endures both family related stress as well as school dysfunction. They say that sometimes beauty can be a curse and in this case it truly was. Born a bi-racial child to parents Jessica and Anthony Pembroke, Jessica not only catches hell at school with jealous young ladies and young men with their hormones racing everywhere, a family member ends up desiring, wanting, and having the wrong type of love for their very own child. The twist and turns in this book keep you flipping the pages only leaving you wanting more.
Other characters in this book such as Ryan only add more to this very exciting plot. As Ryan enters into a hard but yet "self love" phase in her life, she comes to also find that in the process of loving herself, she unintentionally ends up saving a teenagers life. I'm looking forward to reading Mensah's next book. I'm curious to find out how Simone is coping with everything that has happened to her thus so far.
Adra Young
Author of: The Everyday Living of Children & Teens Monologues Series
Socialization Skills Provider for the Detroit Impact Center
February 11, 2013
OMG!!! This book was amazing! It took me thru so many different feelings, alot that centered on total disgust and aggrevation and shock! I loved how the each chapter was usually a different character, with us witnessing what they were going thru in their lives at that moment. I was completely suprised at the end when certain things relating to one person's identity were uncovered, but only one aspect of it. UGH! There were so many f**king people in this book that I seriously wanted to choke the living daylights out of!! I mean, it was a toss up between either the person who knew damn well the stuff he was doing was damned INAPPROPRIATE or the "boohoo whoa is me" women that were running rampant in this book. I suggest this book to anybody who loves a nice shocker of a read and can deal with some very difficult adult issues that take place in this book, I won't mention what those "issues" are, but this book is not for someone of a sensitive nature. If you are looking for happy happy joy joy love and peace on Earth and everything being alright in the world, then this book IS NOT FOR YOU! But if you dig dark books with even darker stories of pain and redemption, and you love to hate certain characters because they deserve to burn in hell and you'd gladly sentence them there if you could, then I suggest this book. I couldnt put it down!
May 30, 2011
Well Executed!
“Who Is He To You” written by Monique Mensah focuses on Ryan, Jessica, and Simone. On first assessment of the story they don’t seem to know each other but soon the reader realizes they all have one thing in common…
Jessica wants to leave her past life behind. Simone is blessed with beauty but in her world her beauty is a curse, and Ryan wants to be loved but first she has to learn how to love herself.
All these females put on a false sense of security to hide the fact that they are hurting inside and they are not perfect. The problem is, the one person who they are looking to for acceptance has the biggest predicament of all!
This story chronicles the characters past, and the author carefully weaved the disturbances from their early relationships into the present, producing a clear picture on why and how the past reflects on their current situations. Self-mutation, murder, incest, and depression are just some of the focal points in this novel.
I literally did not put this read down until I was finished. I was very impressed with this story and author’s obvious talent! I have already purchased her current novel “Inside Rain” on my kindle.
Highly recommended!
Locksie January 28, 2011
ARC Book Club Inc.
Star Rating 5.0*****
“Who Is He To You” written by Monique Mensah focuses on Ryan, Jessica, and Simone. On first assessment of the story they don’t seem to know each other but soon the reader realizes they all have one thing in common…
Jessica wants to leave her past life behind. Simone is blessed with beauty but in her world her beauty is a curse, and Ryan wants to be loved but first she has to learn how to love herself.
All these females put on a false sense of security to hide the fact that they are hurting inside and they are not perfect. The problem is, the one person who they are looking to for acceptance has the biggest predicament of all!
This story chronicles the characters past, and the author carefully weaved the disturbances from their early relationships into the present, producing a clear picture on why and how the past reflects on their current situations. Self-mutation, murder, incest, and depression are just some of the focal points in this novel.
I literally did not put this read down until I was finished. I was very impressed with this story and author’s obvious talent! I have already purchased her current novel “Inside Rain” on my kindle.
Highly recommended!
Locksie January 28, 2011
ARC Book Club Inc.
Star Rating 5.0*****
April 12, 2012
Who Is He To You by Monique D. Mensah is another intriguing read that deals with very real issues.
From the beginning, you're pulled into the story by Simone's thoughts which leads to her pleading prayers for God to end her suffering. Then we meet Ryan as she too is going through an emotional tirade and then Jessica as she struggles to figure out why her husband doesn't desire her as he once did. At first, I thought these were three different stories that had nothing to do with the other, but they had more to do with each other than I would've ever imagined.
Without giving away the story, I just want to say that Monique has done it again. Who Is He To You deals with very real issues in a very real way. There's no mocking, no humor about the book's subject matter, it's just given to you straight with no chaser. Who Is He To You is engaging and a page turning read that you won't be able to put down.
Great job Monique!
From the beginning, you're pulled into the story by Simone's thoughts which leads to her pleading prayers for God to end her suffering. Then we meet Ryan as she too is going through an emotional tirade and then Jessica as she struggles to figure out why her husband doesn't desire her as he once did. At first, I thought these were three different stories that had nothing to do with the other, but they had more to do with each other than I would've ever imagined.
Without giving away the story, I just want to say that Monique has done it again. Who Is He To You deals with very real issues in a very real way. There's no mocking, no humor about the book's subject matter, it's just given to you straight with no chaser. Who Is He To You is engaging and a page turning read that you won't be able to put down.
Great job Monique!
June 18, 2011
Jessica, Simone and Ryan all have one thing in common- Anthony Ross Pembroke.
Jessica appears to be a woman who has it all. Her husband made her who she was and for that she was grateful. But for some reason, things just don't feel right and she is in need of answers.
Simone is a beautiful teenager with deep, dark secrets. She is a loner and really hates her beauty. All she wants is to be like everyone else.
Ryan is in love with her boyfriend and wants to take the relationship to another level. He has stood her up on many occasions and she's getting sick of it. She's become addicted to her medication and refuses to take the advice of her best friend and dr.
These ladies are all so different yet their common denominator brings them together for a shocking ending!
Jessica appears to be a woman who has it all. Her husband made her who she was and for that she was grateful. But for some reason, things just don't feel right and she is in need of answers.
Simone is a beautiful teenager with deep, dark secrets. She is a loner and really hates her beauty. All she wants is to be like everyone else.
Ryan is in love with her boyfriend and wants to take the relationship to another level. He has stood her up on many occasions and she's getting sick of it. She's become addicted to her medication and refuses to take the advice of her best friend and dr.
These ladies are all so different yet their common denominator brings them together for a shocking ending!
December 30, 2015
Found in a recommended reading list from the counseling office at the community college where I teach. I've discovered that being a teacher in that environment, who is much older than the vast majority of students, you sometimes will be approached for advice on problems in the life of a someone who is in your class. What I've found is the best thing is to listen, listen, and listen some more. But do not give advice, instead try to steer the person toward the counselors. And toward the authorities, if physical actions or threats are involved.
This book concerned abuse inflicted on a teenage girl. The book went well into her head, also her Mother's and her dad's mistress'. Very well written, and haunting.
This book concerned abuse inflicted on a teenage girl. The book went well into her head, also her Mother's and her dad's mistress'. Very well written, and haunting.
December 4, 2012
Wow, this was such an interesting twist to a threesome. Who knew that one man could have such an impact on the lives of three different women.
This story just lets you know that everyone is intermingled in some way or fashion, and when Ross gets involved with Ryan, sparks flew in more ways than one.
From an affair, to a sham of a marriage, to be an abuser mentally and physically, was there any wonder the book ended on the note in which it did? A very powerful read. There's not much I can tell you without giving the story away, but it's a read you will definitely enjoy reading and will not be able to put down.
This story just lets you know that everyone is intermingled in some way or fashion, and when Ross gets involved with Ryan, sparks flew in more ways than one.
From an affair, to a sham of a marriage, to be an abuser mentally and physically, was there any wonder the book ended on the note in which it did? A very powerful read. There's not much I can tell you without giving the story away, but it's a read you will definitely enjoy reading and will not be able to put down.
August 1, 2011
After loving "Inside Rain," I went back to read this book--which I believe is Ms. Mensah's first. It reads like a "first book." There are just a few parts where the story telling is too rushed or takes too long. All things corrected in "Inside Rain."
Ultimately, the cause for my 3.5 star rating is due to the underdevelopment of the female characters, which was unfortunate, because I did care for them as deeply as I was concerned for the character of Rain in the "Inside Rain" novel.
Ultimately, the cause for my 3.5 star rating is due to the underdevelopment of the female characters, which was unfortunate, because I did care for them as deeply as I was concerned for the character of Rain in the "Inside Rain" novel.
December 19, 2014
Just a heads up that there is some deeply disturbing situations in this book. That said, this is something that needs to be brought into the public eye and talked about more because it happens a lot more often than people realize. Incest is a hurtful, damaging thing for all who are involved.
This was a predictable book in the sense of how it all came together. The greatness was in how the author created the characters, showing how their childhood and the way they were raised impacted who they became as adults. Overall it was an interesting read.
This was a predictable book in the sense of how it all came together. The greatness was in how the author created the characters, showing how their childhood and the way they were raised impacted who they became as adults. Overall it was an interesting read.
July 15, 2015
This book was amazing! I went through so many different emotions reading it. Like another reviewer stated I figured out pretty quickly who "he" was but that still didn't take away from how good the book was. It was amazing to see the character development throughout the book and I was very surprised with the ending. The book kept my interest throughout and I fell in love with Simone. I'm really anxious to see her development over the next few books. I bought the entire series so i'm on to the next!
December 19, 2009
Vivid detail and an equally titillating plot make ‘Who is He to You’ an absolute page turner. Monique D. Mensah’s writing is literary awesomeness. The story arouses a multitude of emotions as the lives of three ladies are intimately revealed, ultimately colliding to meet an unexpected end.
Dream 4 More Reviews,
Adrienne Adams, Wooed Us!
Disclaimer: This book was received by the author to get a book review free of charge. Opinions of the reviewer.
Dream 4 More Reviews,
Adrienne Adams, Wooed Us!
Disclaimer: This book was received by the author to get a book review free of charge. Opinions of the reviewer.
July 25, 2012
WOW! my mouth was wide open when I finished reading!! this is my first book by the author and I have thoroughly enjoyed this story. I haven't read a story of such depth and meaning in a while. The way that every story intertwined together left me amazed, and mouth wide open. I felt each characters pain and trial. Monique, love you are now easily one of my favorite authors...Kudos!! I can't wait until smoke screen :)
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