She That Findeth by Kim Brooks

A reader of various types of genres; I’ve read my share of “spiritual reads.” Because the sole purpose of this classification in general is to elevate your mind body and soul, my mood after the completion of one is usually one of somberness.  That was until I read SheThat Findeth by Kim Brooks.

Shenita Love, a 35 year old single native of Detroit and devoted church woman is tired of her relationship status.  In-fact, Love is so fed up with being single, that she takes the advice of friend “Male Diva” Rashawn, who pumps her up to become more aggressive on her conquest to find her soul mate.  Enthused by the words provided by her male bestie, she decides to pump her dating game up to full speed. Many comical and very humorous moments are exposed through Shenita’s dating encounters.  I found myself laughing a lot throughout the entire novel and asking myself, “Where on earth did these men come from?”

Love’s friends and “church sisters” personal struggles with being single also add another dimension to this novel making it definitely the “spiritual read” to read.    What I love the most about Brook’s latest novel is the pure realism behind it all.   Despite of this book being classified as a fictional read, it possesses many characteristics of nonfictional read. Many lessons are taught throughout the entirety of this book. I am pleased to say that this book is one heck of a read.

 

 

 

    

 

 

My Critique on Wild Red Located in St. Clair Shores

Let’s face it everybody, we as a people can’t seem to get enough of chicken.  Whether sautéed, barbequed, or baked, the consumption of this domestic fowl will continue to remain at an all-time worldwide.  Like many of us, I easily become bored with the standard ways of how it’s prepared.

Several weeks ago in St. Clair Shores, I decided to give Wild Red a try.  Of-course, my first mind was to order the wings.  However, due to wanting something out of the ordinary, I decided to try one of their ‘wrapped sandwiches.”  Selecting the deep fried chicken breast dipped into buffalo sauce, I was so happy with the portion provided for the price.  More importantly I was most delighted with the taste. The fresh red onions, lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese enclosed within “spinach flat bread” made for great toppings.

Dipped into a bleu cheese dressing, the ingredients all came together to make one amazing wrap. Hands down, this was one of the best chicken sandwiches I’d ever tasted.  People if you’re ever in St. Clair Shores, stop by Wild Red.  Try one of their wraps.  Most likely, you’ll be very happy that you did.  

       

 

 

My Critique on Bagger Dave's Burger Tavern Located on Randolph in Detroit

What’s better than a great hamburger? My answer; a great hamburger with all the toppings you can handle.  Let’s face it everyone, when your mind is set on having that “fantasy burger,you want it to fulfill your taste buds.  

When that craving hits, you want your finely chopped beef, turkey, or vegie blend combination to put a happy grin on your face upon the first bite. I’m here to tell you all, this is possible.  Several weeks ago, I ventured off to a “hamburger haven.” The menu contained so many styles and variations of burgers, I felt myself becoming crossed eyed.  To top it off, if you couldn’t make your mind up from their choices provided, Bagger Dave’s Burger Tavern, located on Randolph Street in downtown Detroit allows you the opportunity to create your own.  


After making my mind up, I decided on the “Blues Burger.” Substituting the beef for turkey, this Cajun spiced selection topped with bleu cheese placed on a toasted bun made for one great combination.  This burger was simply delicious down to the last bite.  Bagger Dave’s Tavern is definitely the official place to eat at when it comes to feasting on a signature burger.  I’m definitely going back real soon.  I'm highly recommending you give them a try.

 

Another Shady Mission by Cheraee C.

Terry McMillan and the late E. Lynn Harris are the authors responsible for my personal interest in novels.  What continued my love for reading was the introduction of a classification of books known as “Hood Literature.”  Finally, there were books being sold at major retailers that I could finally relate to.  Indulging into this classification of fictional reads became my morning cup of tea.  Like an addiction, I couldn’t get enough of it.   The sooner I was done with one; I had to start on another.  If my funding’s were low, I’d simply go to library and check out the ones that had obtained great reviews.    The need to read a book enclosed with high incidences of “juicy drama” became a need for me.   

As my interest for other genres started to expand, this desire faded.  This summer, after several years, I had the privilege of reading a book that brought my love back once again for this classification of books.   Another Shady Mission, written by Cheraee C, is totally responsible for this literary homecoming party.

The plot between husband and wife Passive and Smoke is action packed. From the betrayal of family members, friends, and loved ones all in the name of the mighty dollar, this book will definitely keep you turning the pages until the very end. From wretched ex-lovers on a revenge mission; to sneaky siblings conducting backstabbing tactics to destroy their very own flesh and blood, this book is so good and grimy! If you are a fan of “Hood Literature”, it’s a must you pick this one up.  Thank you Author Cheraee C. for bringing me back to the other side of reading.

 

Supinos Pizza in Detroit Located on Russell

There are pizzerias that claim to make a great pie.  Aware of the fact that the texture of a crust can make or break a pizza, I just like the rest of us have consumed a fair amount of this popular Italian dish. I had no idea what I was missing until I tasted a pizza made by Dave Mancini owner of Supinos pizza located in the eastern market region in Detroit.

 A lover of "thin crust" pizza, I was pleased to know that his establishment is known for exactly that.  This past Thursday, I had the opportunity to try a Supino's Pizza made with Swiss Chard, tomatoes, and Che'vre Cheese. While taking the last bite, what instantly popped into my mind was the song written by Tina Turner several years ago titled, "Simply the Best."   The tomato’s topped off with the spinach and Che’vre Cheese made for one awesome combination.  Of-course, the crust was terrific. After-all, Mancini has worked at perfecting his signature pizza crust for years.

Interviewing him this past Thursday on the Cooks and Books Show, I asked Dave his secret to a successful pizzeria business?  His response was persistence, determination, hard work, and of-course a variety of delicious pizza pies.  I totally agree with his concept.  Detroit and the south east region of Michigan, it's a must that you stop by Supinos and try one of the delectable thin crust pizza pie selections. I guarantee you'll leave Dave's spot one very satisfied customer.  

 

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Is This What Love is? True Stories From Women Around the World by Carolina Ordonez

What’s better than a book based upon love?  A book containing 14 stories based upon the topic written by women worldwide.  International business woman and Life Coach Ordonez proves once again that she has what it takes when it comes to spreading her message of confidence within women.   

What I loved about this compilation is that women from far and wide contributed how “real love” finally arrived and was achieved. They opened up their hearts and souls and courageously shared the ups and down’s of what it took to attract sincere companionship within their lives.     

Despite of the various backgrounds and cultures of the various women, the one commonality mastered by the contributors was simply the concept of attracting real love.  Way to go Ordonez once again.  

My Culinary Critique on Mexican Village Located on Bagley in Detroit

Happy Hump Day everyone!  I hope that the first part of the week has been fantastic for you all.  Just this past Monday, I ventured off to south west Detroit.  For those of us who are aware of the area, I’m pretty sure I don’t’ have to tell you why.  For others who are unaware of the areas reputation, south west Detroit is known for their various Mexican food restaurants. Yes people I’m talking real authentic Mexican Food.

This past Monday, I ended up in the Mexican Village restaurant located on Bagley. Upon entry, I was immediately greeted and guided to my seat.  Fresh spicy homemade salsa was placed on my table with hot tortilla chips to accompany them.  The combination of combined tomatoes, onions, and peppers accented with just the right amount of heat were simply yummy to my tummy. 

Glancing at the menu for approximately five minutes or so, I said to myself, “Adra go for the steak fajitas!”  Just when I was about place my order, I changed my mind and decided on something I most likely would’ve never tried.  As I stated to the waiter, I’ll try the spinach enchiladas with the refried beans and Spanish rice,” I hoped to myself that I was not making a huge mistake.   

Ladies and gentlemen, the only mistake I made was not ordering another of the same dish to take home with me later.  The cheese infused spinach with onions seasoned with Mexican spices was the best enchilada I’d ever tasted.  The rice was fresh and not overcooked. The refried beans were seasoned just right and were not over powered with salt.  To top it all off I was perfectly full off a meatless meal. Even for me that’s hard to believe. Mexican Village definitely gets four star rating from yours truly.  People if you want some great authentic Mexican food I recommend that you try them out for yourselves.    

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