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The Bezel Brothers #1
Laugh Now
Laugh Now is the story of Kareem Bezel, whom by 22-years-old has made it to the top rung of the New York fashion industry; and, he has done everything to get there, including: fraud, theft, receiving stolen property, theft by deception, embezzlement, and identity theft. His crafty spree of thievery props his older brother, Andre Bezel’s illicit drug business into the cross hairs of corrupt DEA Agent Lucas McKenzey.
Set in Philadelphia and its suburbs, Laugh Now, proposes that, although you’re taken out the ghetto, if you were born to be a hustler, that’s what you’ll do.
The story shifts to New York, where the brothers attend Columbia and New York Universities. But before they graduate, Andre is under suspicion for murder, a rogue city councilman is poisoned, and Andre’s first business partner - a white kid, who worked for McKenzey - has been tortured and murdered.
Laugh Now has all the elements: erotic sex, controversial club scenes, lavish shopping spree, murderous robberies, dangerous high speed chase, and something novel to urban fiction: white collar crime, highlighting a whole new form of trickery.
By Laugh Now's end, the brother’s have a well crafted story to tell prosecutors: “Agent McKenzey made us do it, or he planned to arrest us like he did our dad.”
Set in Philadelphia and its suburbs, Laugh Now, proposes that, although you’re taken out the ghetto, if you were born to be a hustler, that’s what you’ll do.
The story shifts to New York, where the brothers attend Columbia and New York Universities. But before they graduate, Andre is under suspicion for murder, a rogue city councilman is poisoned, and Andre’s first business partner - a white kid, who worked for McKenzey - has been tortured and murdered.
Laugh Now has all the elements: erotic sex, controversial club scenes, lavish shopping spree, murderous robberies, dangerous high speed chase, and something novel to urban fiction: white collar crime, highlighting a whole new form of trickery.
By Laugh Now's end, the brother’s have a well crafted story to tell prosecutors: “Agent McKenzey made us do it, or he planned to arrest us like he did our dad.”
182 pages, Paperback
First published August 24, 2010
9 people are currently reading
157 people want to read
About the author
Rahiem Brooks
31 books126 followersRahiem Jerome Brooks is the breakout novelist and is a member of the Mystery Writer's of America. His debut thriller, LAUGH NOW won 2010 African-Americans on the Move Book Club's (AAMBC) Book of the Year & he earned 2011 AAMBC Author of the Year. LAUGH NOW also the Most Creative Plot at the DMV Expo's Creative Excellent Awards. Rahiem was also nominated at the 2011 & 2012 African-American Literary Awards for Mystery of the Year for Con Test and Murder in Germantown.
Rahiem Brooks worked on a Film/TV certificate program at University of California, Los Angeles; however, he currently studies English at Harvard University.
He permanently resides in Philadelphia, PA. with a manx.
Rahiem Brooks worked on a Film/TV certificate program at University of California, Los Angeles; however, he currently studies English at Harvard University.
He permanently resides in Philadelphia, PA. with a manx.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
August 24, 2010
Laugh Now is a gritty, detailed, exciting novel full of the imagery of a movie with many twist and turns. As the lives of Kareem and Andre Bezel unfold we experience the adventures, dangers and successes of their chosen paths. Each brother ventures into the criminal world as they chase the easy and fast dollar while marinating in the successes that it brings. There are so many characters that impact their everyday lives as well as their illegal dealings that it can make one think twice about people that we deal with everyday.
I commend Mr. Brooks on his first novel that is a thoroughly written story full of details and descriptions that make the reader feel like he/she is right there witnessing these activities as they unfold. This would make a very good, fast paced movie that I would truly enjoy. Looking forward to this one continuing....
I commend Mr. Brooks on his first novel that is a thoroughly written story full of details and descriptions that make the reader feel like he/she is right there witnessing these activities as they unfold. This would make a very good, fast paced movie that I would truly enjoy. Looking forward to this one continuing....
July 1, 2011
I just finished reading "Laugh Now"..... and I must say this was an Excellent read. There are so many moving elements to this book that it will keep you engrossed the ENTIRE read. The Bezel Brothers are Handsomely Devastating... is all senses of the phase. Good Looking, Educated, Street Savy, and Focused on obtaining the luxury of success by any means necessary. In each Chapter of the story you are wrapped in suspense, and the Author Mr. Rahiem Books makes sure that you feel like you are IN each scene. The descriptive quality is truly incomparable.
Beside being a Read that will have you on the edge waiting to see where The Bezel Brothers will land. There is so much knowledge to gain and take heed to. This book was definitely enlightening on the dangers of Identity Theft and opened my eyes. If you are looking for a Great book that will not only entertain by enlighten.... "Laugh Now" is a must read.
By: Elizabeth Funderbirk
http://LiteraryLiz.com
Beside being a Read that will have you on the edge waiting to see where The Bezel Brothers will land. There is so much knowledge to gain and take heed to. This book was definitely enlightening on the dangers of Identity Theft and opened my eyes. If you are looking for a Great book that will not only entertain by enlighten.... "Laugh Now" is a must read.
By: Elizabeth Funderbirk
http://LiteraryLiz.com
October 23, 2011
I brought an autograph copy of Laugh Now from Rahiem Brooks at a book signing of his in Harlem is this weekend. (Friday 10-21-11) I started reading the book last night and finished it in eight hours. It was a very good read. The Bezel brothers were a serious force! The twist and turns kept me turning the pages unitl I got to the last page. If not for the small font, I would have finished the novel sooner. Rahiem Brooks is an author you are going to want to watch out for. One day he will make it to New York Times best sellers list. Great job!
Read
April 9, 2011Love it
January 26, 2011
This young man calls himself "Mr. Story Developer" and that he certainly is!!! :-)
Here is another feature that I was fortunate to recite on my #OpenMic session on my Steamy Jones Show last week, 1/18/11.
From the first to last page, you are introduced to the gritty schemes and hustling world of the two Bezel's brothers. Allow me to introduce brothers, Kareem a.k.a Reem & Andre a.k.a Dre who are just living it up! We enter their world of hustling, trials and for sure tribulations. Don't get it twisted these two brothers may have committed their share of crimes, but were no fools!
Kareem, was a senior in H.S at just 16 and his brother Andre was a star quarterback on the H.S football team. Both were destined for greatness, but just had a little bit of extra fun along the way. Some of it was a bit scary for most, but the two handle it with style and grace. No matter what, came out on top! But with success always comes along a corrupt "greed goblin" and this one was called the DEA.
This book is definitely a page turner. I just #LoveLoveLove it. I'm patiently awaiting part 2. Another one I must look into! LOL..Laugh Now is available on www.amazon.com. Go now, yes right freaking now and purchase!
But in the meantime in between time, check out Mr. Brooks upcoming latest, CON TEST. This book has an excerpt avail for FREE via www.lulu.com. This book is also another freaking page turner a.k.a #MustRead.
I said it once and I'll say it again.."Mr. Brooks is a beast with his writing skills"!!
Here is another feature that I was fortunate to recite on my #OpenMic session on my Steamy Jones Show last week, 1/18/11.
From the first to last page, you are introduced to the gritty schemes and hustling world of the two Bezel's brothers. Allow me to introduce brothers, Kareem a.k.a Reem & Andre a.k.a Dre who are just living it up! We enter their world of hustling, trials and for sure tribulations. Don't get it twisted these two brothers may have committed their share of crimes, but were no fools!
Kareem, was a senior in H.S at just 16 and his brother Andre was a star quarterback on the H.S football team. Both were destined for greatness, but just had a little bit of extra fun along the way. Some of it was a bit scary for most, but the two handle it with style and grace. No matter what, came out on top! But with success always comes along a corrupt "greed goblin" and this one was called the DEA.
This book is definitely a page turner. I just #LoveLoveLove it. I'm patiently awaiting part 2. Another one I must look into! LOL..Laugh Now is available on www.amazon.com. Go now, yes right freaking now and purchase!
But in the meantime in between time, check out Mr. Brooks upcoming latest, CON TEST. This book has an excerpt avail for FREE via www.lulu.com. This book is also another freaking page turner a.k.a #MustRead.
I said it once and I'll say it again.."Mr. Brooks is a beast with his writing skills"!!
May 28, 2011
Rahiem Brooks
ISBN: 978-0-578-05777-4
LCCN: 2010928322
www.rahiembrooks.com
When you first read the tile Laugh Now, you have no idea that you are about to embark on a journey into one of society's biggest issues, Identity Theft! Today Identity Theft, is taking people and throwing their once hard earned credit into the toilet and leaves them with a bills of bills they now have to Prove they aren't responsible for. Rahiem takes you on a fast paced visual into the lives of the Bezel brothers and their illegal crime spree.
Laugh Now will no doubt keep you entertained and ready to turn the page. Andre, the oldest of the duo, has his mind set on doing the right thing and leaving crime alone. Sometimes you just can't ignore the call of the street no matter how hard you try. When he makes a deal with the wrong person he takes the reader on an extensive journey that will have you begging for more.
Kareem, the younger brother, has his hand into many different aspects of crime. and turns out to be the mastermind behind many schemes.
if you want to know what to do so as not to be a victim of Identity Theft, read about how they were masters at it.
Though i thought the novel was going to be a street Lit novel, which im not a fan of. It turned out to be more of a suspense novel. The one thing i wished was different, was the textbook tiny font. I needed my granny's glasses to read it. A editing issues, but nothing overwhelmingly distracting. Over all i say job well done Rahiem, Welcome to the literary world!
TNK REVIEW 2010
ISBN: 978-0-578-05777-4
LCCN: 2010928322
www.rahiembrooks.com
When you first read the tile Laugh Now, you have no idea that you are about to embark on a journey into one of society's biggest issues, Identity Theft! Today Identity Theft, is taking people and throwing their once hard earned credit into the toilet and leaves them with a bills of bills they now have to Prove they aren't responsible for. Rahiem takes you on a fast paced visual into the lives of the Bezel brothers and their illegal crime spree.
Laugh Now will no doubt keep you entertained and ready to turn the page. Andre, the oldest of the duo, has his mind set on doing the right thing and leaving crime alone. Sometimes you just can't ignore the call of the street no matter how hard you try. When he makes a deal with the wrong person he takes the reader on an extensive journey that will have you begging for more.
Kareem, the younger brother, has his hand into many different aspects of crime. and turns out to be the mastermind behind many schemes.
if you want to know what to do so as not to be a victim of Identity Theft, read about how they were masters at it.
Though i thought the novel was going to be a street Lit novel, which im not a fan of. It turned out to be more of a suspense novel. The one thing i wished was different, was the textbook tiny font. I needed my granny's glasses to read it. A editing issues, but nothing overwhelmingly distracting. Over all i say job well done Rahiem, Welcome to the literary world!
TNK REVIEW 2010
May 12, 2011
Cry Later
This novel brings forth a subject matter that needs more light shed on it: the real ever-growing crime of Identity theft. While this subject hits up the news waves it is now the topic of debut author Rahiem Brooks as he introduces us to the Bezel brothers and their illegal careers.
This fast pacde novel will keep you entertained. Older Brother Andre "Dre" is in college trying to do the right thing, but sometimes the street life just pulls you back in. One day Dre makes a deal with the devil and we follow the consequences behind that action which makes for interesting reading. Kareem is the younger brother and over time has proved to be the mastermind. Kareem has his hand in so many things it’s amazing. Kareem was charming and a pleasure to read about. This novel will entertain you and put you on point as what not to do to avoid being a victim of a faceless crime.
I really enjoyed this novel and this book will serve as a good reference of what to avoid. The biggest drawback was the small print, which I believe was being taken care of in the next print, but I can only speak on the copy I have. Also the minor editing issues nothing too much to really distract from the story. The biggest issue for me was the small chapters 158 pages and 77 chapters!!! All in all I would recommend this novel and it contains some extremely good information.
SiStar Tea
ARC Book Club Inc.
4 star rating
This novel brings forth a subject matter that needs more light shed on it: the real ever-growing crime of Identity theft. While this subject hits up the news waves it is now the topic of debut author Rahiem Brooks as he introduces us to the Bezel brothers and their illegal careers.
This fast pacde novel will keep you entertained. Older Brother Andre "Dre" is in college trying to do the right thing, but sometimes the street life just pulls you back in. One day Dre makes a deal with the devil and we follow the consequences behind that action which makes for interesting reading. Kareem is the younger brother and over time has proved to be the mastermind. Kareem has his hand in so many things it’s amazing. Kareem was charming and a pleasure to read about. This novel will entertain you and put you on point as what not to do to avoid being a victim of a faceless crime.
I really enjoyed this novel and this book will serve as a good reference of what to avoid. The biggest drawback was the small print, which I believe was being taken care of in the next print, but I can only speak on the copy I have. Also the minor editing issues nothing too much to really distract from the story. The biggest issue for me was the small chapters 158 pages and 77 chapters!!! All in all I would recommend this novel and it contains some extremely good information.
SiStar Tea
ARC Book Club Inc.
4 star rating
August 27, 2010
Really enjoyed the realistic grittiness and URBANess of the writing/setting/characters. It's kinda like a mix between Catch Me If You Can, and Another Day In Paradise (the latter being a book that takes a raw look at a troubling mix of drugs and crime, a.k.a. the real version which James Frey apparently "gained inspiration from," to write his fictitious memoir).
What I liked most about the writing and the telling of LAUGH NOW (of 22-year-old Kareem's thieving escapades), was the ease the author has with the whole urban flavor. The plot doesn't ring with the non-believability of crimes depicted in a (stereo?)typical "Hollywood blockbuster" kind of way. From the dialogue, to the dress code, to the cars driven, to the music, everything was unpretentious and somehow really refreshing, that way. As a reader, you will really feel like you're right there amidst the (fast-paced) action with the characters in the story. I spent my growing-up years in a city, so my B.S. radar is finely tuned when it comes to urban fiction ;)
Rahiem Brooks is a gutsy, fresh, and fierce novelist. WATCH OUT FOR HIM!
What I liked most about the writing and the telling of LAUGH NOW (of 22-year-old Kareem's thieving escapades), was the ease the author has with the whole urban flavor. The plot doesn't ring with the non-believability of crimes depicted in a (stereo?)typical "Hollywood blockbuster" kind of way. From the dialogue, to the dress code, to the cars driven, to the music, everything was unpretentious and somehow really refreshing, that way. As a reader, you will really feel like you're right there amidst the (fast-paced) action with the characters in the story. I spent my growing-up years in a city, so my B.S. radar is finely tuned when it comes to urban fiction ;)
Rahiem Brooks is a gutsy, fresh, and fierce novelist. WATCH OUT FOR HIM!
June 15, 2011
Review by: Justina Wheelock on Jun. 11, 2011
The Devil Is In The Details
Raw. Real. Intense. With a unique style, Rahiem Brooks comes out with his literary pen blazing from the first chapter. The author opens up by taking the reader on a journey through Philadelphia--one street at a time. Readers will know they are in for a fast paced and gut wrenching ride.
In my opinion, this work can not be held strictly onto the shelves of contemporary urban or street literature. With each con, my mind took me back to a feeling of deja vu. There was a feeling of reading scenes from a script of the BBC TV Show, HUSTLE. As a reader, you too will hate the crimes the brothers commit; however, you will fall in love with the plots intricately woven into this realistic tale. The author's use of authentic dialogue adds the right touch of reality in a non-judgmental way. Art accurately imitates life.
LAUGH NOW is an oustanding debut work. Definitely keep your eye on the prodigy, Rahiem Brooks. He will have the last laugh on the critics.
Justina Wheelock
Novelist/ Screenwriter
The Devil Is In The Details
Raw. Real. Intense. With a unique style, Rahiem Brooks comes out with his literary pen blazing from the first chapter. The author opens up by taking the reader on a journey through Philadelphia--one street at a time. Readers will know they are in for a fast paced and gut wrenching ride.
In my opinion, this work can not be held strictly onto the shelves of contemporary urban or street literature. With each con, my mind took me back to a feeling of deja vu. There was a feeling of reading scenes from a script of the BBC TV Show, HUSTLE. As a reader, you too will hate the crimes the brothers commit; however, you will fall in love with the plots intricately woven into this realistic tale. The author's use of authentic dialogue adds the right touch of reality in a non-judgmental way. Art accurately imitates life.
LAUGH NOW is an oustanding debut work. Definitely keep your eye on the prodigy, Rahiem Brooks. He will have the last laugh on the critics.
Justina Wheelock
Novelist/ Screenwriter
December 26, 2010
There I was passing through the mall, and this young man stopped me to tell me about his book. Now I was apprehensive about stopping, but I was equally impressed that he stopped me. He pitched me the plot of his novel, and didn't think because I am an elderly that i couldn't read, so I bought his book to support him. And I loved it.
Laugh Now was very fast paced, just how I like my movies. Everything was done neatly and clearly. I am a lifelong Philadelphian, and Mr. Brooks effectively placed me on every corner that the characters were on. Even when there was a bit of Hollywood in the novel, it rang of believability. I can't wait to read part 2, because I wanna know if Dre goes to jail and Kareem continues on stealing.
Laugh Now was very fast paced, just how I like my movies. Everything was done neatly and clearly. I am a lifelong Philadelphian, and Mr. Brooks effectively placed me on every corner that the characters were on. Even when there was a bit of Hollywood in the novel, it rang of believability. I can't wait to read part 2, because I wanna know if Dre goes to jail and Kareem continues on stealing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 2, 2011
I really like Andre and Kareem Bezel and I was rooting for them to come out on top the whole book. I love the cunning and suave characteristics that Kareem possess. At such a young age both brothers sought out a life full of fame and fortune. Even though Kareem was the youngest he was very clever and getting what he wanted and stayed two steps ahead of the game to save his brother from his bad choices. I love the young love that was captured with both couples, Tasha and Andre’ as well as Toi with Kareem. The story captured me from beginning to end. A definite 5 star read
August 22, 2011
I enjoyed this book, I am glad that I won it! It has a very urban real life feel to it. This is a book that you easily get in engrossed in! There are not too many books out there that talk about the crime of identity thief, so it made for a really interesting read! It was very suspenseful and keep me turning pages!
Just won this book!! I am so excited! I got the goodreads email notifying me as I was ringing in the new year!! What a great way to start 2011 off!
Just won this book!! I am so excited! I got the goodreads email notifying me as I was ringing in the new year!! What a great way to start 2011 off!
January 1, 2011
Considering, I inspired the character, Marquis, I strongly believe that this is a good read. LOL.
July 27, 2011
Clever and engaging; characters and storyline.
April 24, 2011
Great read from an ambitious author. Looking ahead for the next one.
May 9, 2011
Love this book
plan to write a review and post later ( so sorry working 12 hours)
work, eat, read, sleep..
plan to write a review and post later ( so sorry working 12 hours)
work, eat, read, sleep..
December 11, 2019
Interesting story with a cliffhanger ending
August 17, 2012
Smooth Criminals.
This story is an interesting account showcasing two brothers who deeply cared for each other, but had two totally different outlooks on life…
The oldest of the two brothers Andre Bezel, known to his peeps as Dre, while continuing on with his education has a deep yearning for the King Pin status. The streets are calling him and no matter how he slice or dices the pros and cons of the drug trade, the pull is extremely strong. Dre is aware that his younger brother Kareem is on a whole other level and will disapprove of his involvement with drugs, so he must keep his movements undercover. But seriously, who can he trust?
Kareem Bezel’s young mind has always been set on achieving fame and fortune, and it took him no time to realize that education and smart business moves were the keys to the life he intend on living. A cut above the rest Kareem excelled in school studying towards a degree, while working a part time job at a bank and interning at GQ. But somewhere in the mix of Kareem’s busy life deception and embezzlement was added to his resume and the thrill was like no other.
After Dre takes a wrong turn, the brother’s worlds collide under the watchful eye of Lucas Mckenzey, a decorated DEA Agent who will stop at nothing to humiliate and promptly send the Bezel brothers to prison for years. But before that can happen, all eyes will be on Agent Lucas and he may as well go run and hide lol! The drama continues to escalate towards a dramatic revelations and an exciting chase!
Identity theft is a sophisticated white collar crime, that is well executed in this novel. From the shrewdness of fraud, extravagant shopping sprees, and courtroom trickery, to the relationships with family members, lovers, and cohorts, ‘Laugh Now’ tells the story of a well thought out crime. Whether it’s drugs or fraud, it’s all the same, a price has to be paid.
I needed a little more clarity surrounding Kareem job, this was a gray area for me, along with a few typos.
Otherwise a very interesting to read from the inside of such a devious crime. this story is very well written and is recommended reading.
Locksie August 16th 2012
ARC Book Club Inc.
Star Rating 4.0****
This story is an interesting account showcasing two brothers who deeply cared for each other, but had two totally different outlooks on life…
The oldest of the two brothers Andre Bezel, known to his peeps as Dre, while continuing on with his education has a deep yearning for the King Pin status. The streets are calling him and no matter how he slice or dices the pros and cons of the drug trade, the pull is extremely strong. Dre is aware that his younger brother Kareem is on a whole other level and will disapprove of his involvement with drugs, so he must keep his movements undercover. But seriously, who can he trust?
Kareem Bezel’s young mind has always been set on achieving fame and fortune, and it took him no time to realize that education and smart business moves were the keys to the life he intend on living. A cut above the rest Kareem excelled in school studying towards a degree, while working a part time job at a bank and interning at GQ. But somewhere in the mix of Kareem’s busy life deception and embezzlement was added to his resume and the thrill was like no other.
After Dre takes a wrong turn, the brother’s worlds collide under the watchful eye of Lucas Mckenzey, a decorated DEA Agent who will stop at nothing to humiliate and promptly send the Bezel brothers to prison for years. But before that can happen, all eyes will be on Agent Lucas and he may as well go run and hide lol! The drama continues to escalate towards a dramatic revelations and an exciting chase!
Identity theft is a sophisticated white collar crime, that is well executed in this novel. From the shrewdness of fraud, extravagant shopping sprees, and courtroom trickery, to the relationships with family members, lovers, and cohorts, ‘Laugh Now’ tells the story of a well thought out crime. Whether it’s drugs or fraud, it’s all the same, a price has to be paid.
I needed a little more clarity surrounding Kareem job, this was a gray area for me, along with a few typos.
Otherwise a very interesting to read from the inside of such a devious crime. this story is very well written and is recommended reading.
Locksie August 16th 2012
ARC Book Club Inc.
Star Rating 4.0****
June 21, 2012
Credit can make or break a life. Bad credit can have you ostracized, unemployed, living in a closet forced to use an ironing board as a dining table or homeless. Good credit can get the Gucci suit, the luxury car, the loft in the artsy part of town, the finest mate on the arm . . . life.
In the debut novel by Raheim Brooks Laugh Now, Kareem Bezel learns early success needs credit and he puts his life on the line to achieve the finest materials a teenager can imagine. By mixing a multitude of white-collar crimes, a tight cocaine connect and a tremendous amount of wit, he makes enough money to live comfortable. In the process he unknowingly entices his younger brother, Andre to craft his own hustle.
Andre Bezel finds success hustling but slips up and pays a price. After ignoring his gut feelings and the advice of Kareem about the dealings with an associate, Andre’s thirst finds him under investigation and suspicion for murder. With the police on the their tails, the brothers concoct a plan to escape the charges of the investigation and reverse any and all ill will from the shady police involved.
A slim one hundred and fifty eight pages, Laugh Now should have been a quick read. However, the tiny font size and seventy-seven chapters made the task of reading much more difficult than it should have been. The depth of the plot and twists make the book entertaining.
Like most books that lack production but have a passionate narrative, at the end of the journey, the story is worth the time.
What did you like about the book?
I liked that the book because it mixed identity theft with street crime. White-collar crime is not a new topic in urban books but an interesting one.
What did you dislike about the book?
The interior design, the font or the micro chapter breaks.
What could the author do to improve the book?
Improve the book production and the pacing of the book.
In the debut novel by Raheim Brooks Laugh Now, Kareem Bezel learns early success needs credit and he puts his life on the line to achieve the finest materials a teenager can imagine. By mixing a multitude of white-collar crimes, a tight cocaine connect and a tremendous amount of wit, he makes enough money to live comfortable. In the process he unknowingly entices his younger brother, Andre to craft his own hustle.
Andre Bezel finds success hustling but slips up and pays a price. After ignoring his gut feelings and the advice of Kareem about the dealings with an associate, Andre’s thirst finds him under investigation and suspicion for murder. With the police on the their tails, the brothers concoct a plan to escape the charges of the investigation and reverse any and all ill will from the shady police involved.
A slim one hundred and fifty eight pages, Laugh Now should have been a quick read. However, the tiny font size and seventy-seven chapters made the task of reading much more difficult than it should have been. The depth of the plot and twists make the book entertaining.
Like most books that lack production but have a passionate narrative, at the end of the journey, the story is worth the time.
What did you like about the book?
I liked that the book because it mixed identity theft with street crime. White-collar crime is not a new topic in urban books but an interesting one.
What did you dislike about the book?
The interior design, the font or the micro chapter breaks.
What could the author do to improve the book?
Improve the book production and the pacing of the book.
March 6, 2012
Laugh Now is a very well written book that has you looking at all of the characters suspect. It is classified as a Crime Thriller and a thriller it is! You want to cheer for the good guy but you are not really sure who the good guy is. The one thing that you will know is that you want to continue reading until the very last page!
Coming up in the heart of the ghetto in Philadelphia now moved to the suburbs in King of Prussia, PA, Andre Bezel was an All-American running back who chose to hang out with the quarterback of Upper Merion High School Brent Gower. The only problem is they were not discussing football plays they were running drugs to the streets of Philly. Kareem Bezel, younger brother of Andre was discovered to be a child prodigy and quick witted. These charms and talents made it easy for Kareem to be the embezzler and fraud that he portraited on a daily basis at the age of 16. Through a series of events these two brothers continue on with their plans of obtaining wealth and status until Dre crosses paths with the wrong person and decisions have to be made by him and for him. This book is about loyalty and who is trustworthy, about family sticking together and looking out for each other while handling their own business. It takes you through the daily lives of these two men and the people who surround them and the things needed to survive. It is about decisions good, bad or indifferent but decisions that need to be made.
This is my first experience with Rahiem Brooks but it will NOT be my last!
Coming up in the heart of the ghetto in Philadelphia now moved to the suburbs in King of Prussia, PA, Andre Bezel was an All-American running back who chose to hang out with the quarterback of Upper Merion High School Brent Gower. The only problem is they were not discussing football plays they were running drugs to the streets of Philly. Kareem Bezel, younger brother of Andre was discovered to be a child prodigy and quick witted. These charms and talents made it easy for Kareem to be the embezzler and fraud that he portraited on a daily basis at the age of 16. Through a series of events these two brothers continue on with their plans of obtaining wealth and status until Dre crosses paths with the wrong person and decisions have to be made by him and for him. This book is about loyalty and who is trustworthy, about family sticking together and looking out for each other while handling their own business. It takes you through the daily lives of these two men and the people who surround them and the things needed to survive. It is about decisions good, bad or indifferent but decisions that need to be made.
This is my first experience with Rahiem Brooks but it will NOT be my last!
June 11, 2012
Mr. Brooks has written in my opinion an edge on your seat warp zone like action thriller. This is the first book that I've read where the storyline progressive over a span of several years; all the while allowing the reader to enjoy the progression of each character. In addition to the calculated and not so calculated crime which consumed the story, Brooks threw in a realistic mixture of passionate love and family love that almost anyone in the characters' error could relate to. I'll admit I'm a very emotional reader; I'm able to connect to an Author's space emotionally - to the point of tears (shhh). Laugh Now was so quick and kept me on the edge of my seat that I didn't have time to shed tear, although my heart continuously thumped to the triumphs of many of the characters. With that said, I have no doubt in my mind I'll need to be secluded when reading the sequel 'Die Later'. I've become a part of each character - that the mere thought of either of them dieing is giving me the sniffles as I type.
A great read, as much as I wanted to put the book down to do some necessary mudane chores ... I couldn't.
A great read, as much as I wanted to put the book down to do some necessary mudane chores ... I couldn't.
January 25, 2014
Kareem and Andre are both criminals. Although, they commit different crimes. Kareem, is all about making in the fashion industry. He is into all crimes dealing with credit card fraud and identity theft. Andre, is into street crimes. He is trying to come up in the drug world. Both brother begin their criminal active in high school. As they get older the crimes grow. When a crooked DEA agent becomes obsessed with taking down the Bezel brother it becomes a game of who can outsmart who. A decent story to read. There were a few sentences with a missing word here and there. There is a sequel to this story. I might read it later on.
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