Customer Reviews

Getting up and Getting on

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
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Getting Up & Getting On by MBridges is the second book in the Betty Jean series. Betty Jean Carlson moved to California to leave behind memories of hurt and pain left from a bad break-up. Now in California with her best friend, Sheila, Betty Jean just does not know how to get it together. As only a friend can, Sheila pleads and begs and finally gets Betty Jean to do something with herself besides go to work and come home. Finally beginning to live again, Betty Jean and Sheila meet two men who could make their lives a little bit brighter. But will the hurt and pain Betty Jean holds on to catch up with her?

I had a great time reading Getting Up & Getting On. MBridges did an excellent job of giving us characters we can relate to and cheer for. I felt for Betty Jean, I loved Sheila like my own best friend, and I was really feeling the brothers that brought welcomed changes to both of their lives. If you are like me and have not read the first Betty Jean novel Are You Satisfied, Yet?, do not worry. You will not feel as though you have missed anything as Getting Up & Getting On is a full story all on its on. And like me, you will want to get the first book to read how it all began. MBridges gives us a well-written and developed story that will leave us wanting more in the end. I am eager to read the next title in the series, Love Happens, to find out what is next for these wonderful characters.


Reviewed by Donielle
APOOO BookClub

GETTING UP AND GETTING ON is the continuing story of Betty Jean Carlson. She has come out of a bad relationship with Ezekiel and moved from the South to the West Coast. Her friend Sheila accompanied her and is forever after her to take off the bathrobe, get off the couch, go out and start living again. Sheila finally succeeds and the two of them meet a very handsome man who has eyes for Betty Jean. Sheila is just a bit jealous but soon finds a man of her own. Betty Jean is still having difficulty washing Ezekiel completely away. He haunts her dreams as well as her waking hours and is causing havoc with her new relationship.

This is a love story that stands alone even though it is a sequel. Betty
Jean is developed enough in this book so it is easy to understand her hang up with Ezekiel as well as her need for Byron, the new man in her life, even if I did find myself wanting to shout at her to get over it and get on with her life. It is a good study in how to get rid of the baggage we sometimes carry without even realizing it. The story has enough twists and turns, hints and suggestions to increase the tension level. It is well worth reading.

Reviewed by Alice Holman
of The RAWSISTAZ(tm) Reviewers

Years upon years can be poured into relationship. For it to end suddenly makes it seem like a waste of time - Betty Jean is trying to get over that lost time in "Getting Up & Getting On". She's out of it after her relationship ending and the hard arduous process of trying to end it in the first place - Sheila Cooper, her longtime friend pushes her to move on and live again - it can't be that difficult can it? "Getting Up & Getting On" is recommended to romance fans everywhere with a focus on chick lit - and for community library fiction collections.

Second time novelist mBRIDGES is back with another Betty Jean title, Getting Up and Getting On. This time her protagonist, Betty Jean Carlson from her debut novel Are You Satisfied, Yet?, is getting her act together and moving on...or so she thinks. Yet, as the past comes back to bite her in the butt, Betty Jean learns she is stronger than before and strongly focused on finding her destiny.

Betty Jean is your younger sister, your best friend, your co-worker and/or your neighbor down the street all balled up in one. She is the average, contemporary, African American, young woman struggling in a not-to-friendly world. You will applaud this writer as she portrays wit, charm and intelligence in her character. The sub-characters are Sheila, Betty Jean's best friend and personal assistant, and black men of substance, intelligence, wealth and sophistication. In following these men through the story, you surely want to believe there are still some good black men to be had. Set in sunny California, these young people had it going on.

Another interesting issue is the women's dating scene and their desire to develop lasting relationships. I loved the de Monbleau Family's plush lifestyle. Despite having a wealth of material possessions, they maintained their values and moral upbringing. Set in sunny California, these young people had it going on. The author also delighted the reviewer with that extra touch of mystery in the storyline that kept me guessing as the story progressed.

BRIDGES has a natural gift of storytelling and writes books that are easy to follow and keeps the reader interested. No part of the book dragged, and twists and turns were not always predictable. I look forward to more visits with Betty Jean, her friends and associates in future releases. Getting Up and Getting On is a combination of chick lit' and women's contemporary fiction. It touched my heart and tickled my funny bone, page after page.

Idrissa Uqdah, AALBC Reviewer

I enjoyed the 2nd installment in the Betty Jean series. I experienced a range of emotions while reading the book: sympathy, empathy, despair, hope, disgust and relief. I asked myself " How many trials is BJ going to have to endure before she is allowed some happiness?" The twists in the story were interesting. The ending leaves the reader with a few unanswered questions. I look forward to the next installment in the Betty Jean series to fill-in the gaps in BJ, Byron and Zeke's lives and give insight into the new characters - Cyron, Julie and Ayron.

ASiS Book Club Member

I have been waiting on this book forever! It was well worth the wait. I love the way MBridges describes into her characters innermost thoughts and fears. Her way with words made me feel what Betty Jean's hesitation to start again. I felt what she was feeling. The return of E was a surprising twist too.

MBridges, girl I am ready for part three :) !!!!

Great book, but if you dont have are you satisfied yet you will simply not understand betty jeans love for ezekiel..shame how it had to go down for ezekiel...it was good to see sheila come out on top, now I know there will be a part 3 and I cant wait! APPLAUSE to MJBridges!