Hustlin' Backwards

I too had some issues with the cover of the book. Found it to be somewhat cheesy and if it were not for a friend suggesting the read to me I may have overlooked this one. That being the case it would have surely been my lost. The book began to build the main characters in (chapter 1) a way that made you want to know more about each of these young men and their story. V's baby brother JayQuan was hilarious. And the main character Capone was simply delicious. A bit rude with some sharp edges though. He made you want to love him and be that ride or die chick that helps keep him grounded. A definite "sweet pea" though. This book got me involved. Had me caring about the characters. Felt scared for them at some points in the book . I wished I could forewarn them of things that I (as the reader) was aware was about to happen. Talking about living Ghetto-Fab-U-Lust, it got a little hot and steamy a few times. I would reccomend this read to all. This book makes a great read for book clubs, a lot can be discussed. Hustlin Backwards is one I'll always remeber and Mike Sanders gets much applause and respect from this Ladee. Anxiously awaiting his next book "Hitch".

Mike Sanders rips a shocker into the literary scene with his latest novel titled, Hustlin Backwards, but there's no doubt that this stylistic and gifted writer is moving forward. CAPONE!! CAPONE!! CAPONE!! Yeah, I'm calling him out loudly! One thing I enjoy while reading is an addictive character. Mike's perfected description of Capone had me shaking my head going, DAMN! He was a bad MUH-THA, shut yo mouth! If you don't know what I'm saying, then you've got to know whathe'zsayin, cause if you don't, well...you're gonna miss out. "Death Before Dishonor" (?) Not in this day and age, as Hustlin Backwards will serve as a witness to that. It's packaged up with just the right ingredients that makes a reader indulge and not come out until the very last drop. Many were absolutely right when they stated this is not just another street novel written to entertain. Ride or Die, it's as real as the game gets. I applaud yet another one of the Black Pearl Books family of talented authors for handling their business and doing it well. I can't wait to see what else Mike shocks the literary world with next. I'm sure it will be a winner.

I originally posted this review in April 2005. I just noticed it was gone, and couldn't bear to think that readers would not be blessed with the talents of Mike Sanders. No matter how many Cadillac's sittin' on spinners... No matter how many gators lining your closet... No matter how many groupies calling your phone... NO, it's never enough.... Capone, a 26 year-old fugitive gets in his feelings about his life as a hustler. Meet Mike, and his Road Dogs Jared, and Vonzell of North Carolina 'Queen City'. As the three long term friends decide to use PS (problem solver) to set some one straight, opportunity comes knocking. Now can these 'little dudes' answer the challenge of being 'REAL BIG BOYS?' From Robbing, and Stealing, Now Dealing, and Killing... Capone, June, and V don't back down.... Pumping much FEAR in the opposition. The team rises to the responsibility of THE SHINE! But how long can ONE TEAM roll before the power crumbles? Long years to make it, short time to take it....In the streets gangsters die too young, and snitches live too long. Is the code sacred enough to survive? Look it was the title that had me checking for this book. Mike 'Capone' thoroughly accounts for his teams' growth into the drug world. Guess what? While you think that you're doing it so hard, or so much better it's all 'Hustlin' Backwards!' Let me find out ya'll sleeping on Mike Sanders talent!

I brought this book 3 weeks ago and didn't have the urge to read it; it is a book club book so I went along with my group. I must say this book is well worth the read. Capone/Mike is one of the realest characters in a story I've read in a long time. Being from up North as they would say, you do sleep on down south hustlers because we think the game is different. Well Mr. Sander's proved me completely wrong you can be a gangsta from anywhere. This Story starts off with three friends from the same housing projects, known as stick-up kids looking for a come up. When presented with the best come up they could have imagined, they take Charlotte by the balls and run straight to the net. I applaud Mr. Sanders for this story, although the cover is not so appealing the story so exceeds it. If you are looking for a good street story that keeps it completely real this is one.

When I first looked at this books I didn't think it would be worth reading. But I bought it anyway and it was very good. Much better than I expected it to be. This is a must read.