Book Review: The Bitter and Sweet Around Me by DeVon Nelson

In the beginning of author DeVon Nelson's novel, The Bitter and Sweet Around Me, the reader meets the central protagonist Portia George during a wedding ceremony that would begin her second marriage.  Portia never thought she would ever marry again.  It wasn't "in the script she had written for herself", but things do happen tragically and often unexpectedly in life and Portia's life is no exception.

In "The Bitter and Sweet Around Me", the reader can see facets of themselves in the life and struggles of Portia George.  When her marriage falls apart due to her husband's addiction, the reader is taken on a rough, emotional journey with Portia as she deals with the changes life throws at her.   

The most likable thing about DeVon Nelson's prose, is that it is clear and straight forward.  The reader feels a great connection and an understanding with the protagonist.  That understanding being that happily ever after is only found in fairytales and that with every tragedy life may throw at us, we are the ones who control what direction our life may go.  The choices have always been ours, all it takes is faith and a single step.

Another likable aspect of this novel is that there are no stereotypical Black characters or caricatures of successful African American life.  For example, the relationship between Portia and her best friend Lexie, is an example of perfect sisterhood and trust.  There is no backstabbing or jealousy between them.  They are just two women who know how to navigate the thick and the thin of life together.  In reality, we could all use friends like that or maybe just read DeVon Nelson's "The Bitter and Sweet Around Me" and try to learn by example.

If you would like to read DeVon Nelson's wonderful story of life, love, pain and triumph or learn more about the author, then please visit  http://www.bitterandsweetbook.net/ and read an excerpt from this uplifting and touching novel.

The book is also available on Amazon.com.