Az car Moreno is a comedic drama laced with erotica about young woman overcomes opposition, tragedy, and her own fears to pursue her dreams, even as it seems her friendships and relationships are unraveling all around her. Nikki Moreno has finally made the difficult decision to leave her loved ones and move to LA to fulfill her dream of acting. Before she leaves, she decides to throw a party to celebrate the impending birth of her best friend's child. But the celebration quicky deteriorates into drama, reconnecting with old flames, secrets revealed from her closest friends, and tragic news. Rosie, Nikki's cousin, is beautiful and bisexual. She cares for handsome Alejandro, but she also has feelings for her and Nikki's friend Crystal. She thought that Crystal would never reciprocate her feelings in any way--but when she does, the repercussions put their ten-year friendship in jeopardy. Rhonda deeply loves her gambling addicted boyfriend Dante, who has only caused trouble and cost her financially. When men who Dante owes money to grow impatient waiting to be repaid, the cost might be her life. The lovely and sophisticated Crystal hides dark secrets beneath her proper exterior lies, desires that she tries to keep hidden from those closest to her. So when she engages in a steamy menage-a-trois with Rosie and Alejandro, she only makes excuses in an attempt backtrack her actions and reclaim her sophisticated appearance. Mario comes back to town for the celebration and brings not only love for Nikki, but also the final push she needs to leave those dear to her and pursue her career in LA. When Rhonda and Dante briefly separated, Chico--Mario's older brother--and Rhonda spent the night together and he believes the child she's carrying is actually his. Because Rhonda is in love with Dante, she refuses to accept even the possibility that it could be anyone's child other than Dante's.
I don't know why but I didn't expect to enjoy this book and I only read it because my roommate left it lying about and I was curious. Perhaps it's because I'm more of Grisham and Turow type of reader. I was pleasantly surprised by this book and enjoyed it immensely. The characters, plot and dialogue was all realistic. I'm looking forward to Ms. Hallima's next book. My only criticism is I'm hoping the next offering will be longer.
This is a must read for people struggling with fear.......
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 19 years ago
From the opening chapter i fell in love with this book and finished reading it on one day!! The characters are strong and the stroy is to the point. The Author is not affraid to allow them to make mistakes express their opionions or keep it real. My favorite character is a women who have survived physical and emotional abuse through an emense strength. She is confident with her sexuality and supportive of her family. The strongest part of the book would have to be the loyalty displayed between each character. It makes one evaluate their friends and appreciate the support groups in their life. This book has inspired me as a writter and as a artist. If your struggling with fear, or have questions on truth and loyalty...this is the book for you!!!!
Loved it
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 19 years ago
Debut novelist Shelley Halima has penned a sassy, sexy, and hilarious novel that demands attention. In Azucar Moreno we're introduced to Nikki Moreno, a spirited young woman from Detroit who is experiencing life changes with her caring family and rambunctious friends. Shelley's strength lies in her strong writing voice - a voice that makes you feel as if the characters exist, and there are many laugh-out-loud one liners that causes the novel to sparkle. There are lots of characters in the story so make sure and keep up with them all -- especially since the sequel -- LOS MORENOS -- will be released later on in 2005 - and based on its predecessor, this will be a book that you won't want to miss.
You Will Not Put This Down!!
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 19 years ago
I absolutely loved "Azucar Moreno". Solid debut from Shelley Halima. The dialogue was funny, the pace was quick, and the main character and supporting cast was very good. This book is for everybody even though it's told from a biracial - Puerto Rican and Black - woman's point of view. It's about following your dreams, living your life for yourself and no one else, friendship and family. You'll read this book quick as it is only about 150 pages or so but it will leave you wanting more. I can't wait for the sequel!!
In a word -- REMARKABLE
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 20 years ago
Without giving the story away, I'll say this book is one you can relate to. Shelley Halima brings a voice the literary world needs to hear. This is an outstanding read and by far the best book I've read this year. I could relate to Nikki Moreno and saw a lot of the same battles I had to face and deal with were similiar to hers. This book will give you a reality check all of us need. Shelley as my grandmomma would say, YOU DONE DID GOOD GIRL!!! If you are looking for a book you will love and be able to relate to, this surely is the ONE. Harold L. Turley II www.haroldlturley2.com Author of Love's Game - Oct 04
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