Customer Reviews

Why I Kept My Past A Secret

5 star:		(16)
4 star:		(5)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Teresa Browning did an awesome job of introducing us to the main character, Rhonda. I remained rivited as I followed the life of Rhonda -her struggles, pain, dissapointment, abandonment, love, and triumphs. She over came each challenge and never lost sight of whose she was. Throughout the book Rhonda acknowledged that she knew that God was watching over her although she was not ready to commit herself fully to Him. We followed her as she dealt with with physical and emotion abuse, a broken marrige - all while struggling to raise her four children. The book serves as a source of healing, allowing the reader to come to grips with the many secrets we have hidden in our private spaces and then finding the strength to rid ourselves of those demons.

The book is an easy read - in the first person - not complicated with Rhonda's story being told through the voices of different characters. Its a must-read, one you will enjoy reading and want to pass onto your family and friends.

Ronda, reminds me of the song "We Fall Down But We Get Up". I really enjoyed the book. Her faith allowed her to keep on going. I cannot wait for part 2. Keep up the good work.

This book was the best book i ever read outside the bible.I cried,laugh I got mad and so many more feelings came out of me while reading it.I think the author went through things that showed me their is hope for me because some of the same things she went through i also have gone through and if she was strong enough to get through what she went through and write about it .The small things in my life,After reading this book let me know their is hope for me and others like me.Thank you Mrs.Browing for writing this book i hope there is another Giant to follow.Most of my life i would only read the bible but a friend told me about this book and how much she like reading it so i had to buy it because she would not let me read hers because it was so easy to read she is now reading it for the third time.I said this can't be true,but was i wrong i started reading it and could not put it down it's all she said it was and more.I say to anyone that have not read this book is missing out on the Giant in books.But it should have a warning on it.don't plan anything before reading it because when you start it will lock you in for hours.Mrs.Browning don't leave us hanging tell us more.The next thing i would like to see it as a Brodway play about this book.I would like to some day meet you.Thank God for grandmothers like yours.

MG

Ronda is a young woman with a lot of secrets, who is trying to get beyond her past and develop a closer relationship with God. However, her relationship with God seems to get repeatedly put on hold because of her need to have a relationship with a man at whatever cost. As a result, she has had several unhealthy relationships that add additional weight to the trunk of secrets she carries around with her. But most of us know that all secrets eventually become exposed and so as you read Why I Kept My Past a Secret you may find yourself wondering if Ronda and her fragile relationships can handle such exposure.

This book was an interesting read that shows how you may be haunted later, when you try to bury the past without dealing with it. I felt at times the story could have been sequenced better and there were certain aspects of the story that could have been explored in greater detail. Still, the author did a good job at helping you understand the turmoil that Ronda experienced, and the overall concept of the book was good. While this book may leave you wanting more, it is still a quick and compelling read.

Reviewed by Stacey Seay
The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers

I enjoyed reading this book. Teresa Browning writes in an easy to read style. Once into the story, this is a difficult book to put down. Ms. Browning's graphic depiction of the main character Rhonda, is sometimes shocking and takes the reader along on Rhonda's journey of shocking misfortunes, painfully foolish choices, and often brutal consequences throughout her young adult life. This is not a fairy tale read. A true to life book from beginning to ending. An educational read for young women.

I really enjoyed the book. The author gave excellent details about Ronda's life. I felt like I knew Ronda and was experiencing everything that she was going through. The story made me want more and I was disappointed that the story was short. I hope there is a continuation of the story.

Yes I'm a man and I found this story to be very true and
honest. If we could just take a moment to see what our
black sisters are going thru maybe we as men would not take
them so lightly. I found Ms. Browning's book to be very moving.
I felt I could cry,laugh kill and a host of other things while
reading this book. Ms. Browning I can say you really captured
my attention and I loved the book. When will the sequel hit
the shelf.

"Why I Kept My Past A Secret" by Teresa Browning is a powerful
testament of faith. It reveals some ugly truths of life and speaks to the power of persevering in the midst of adversity.
Browning reveals hidden lessons about betrayal, family violence,
addictions, personal tragedies, and about a young woman's desire
for friendship and love. The story runs deeper than passion of sex. It is more than a mere single mother's story of struggles
and hardships It is a journey to overcome.............

I began to read the book and found myself not wanting to put it down. It was real and down to earth. Touched on what women go through when trying to live their lives in a man's world. You're good enough to lay with, but not to marry. Left me wanting more. I can't wait for the second book.

This book was absolutely wonderful and written from the heart. It took me all of 4 hours to read this book and could not put it down. I am anxious for the sequel as I need to know what was in Ryan's letter that was never opened and what trey will become. I have so many questions but yet the book left me fulfilled and yearning for me by this author. Teresa you are truly gifted and may God bless you and the kIds...Hawa