Just My Luck

This was a very good book. It was such a feel good story. It reminded me of Forrest Gump. The main character was so lovable. Prior to this book, I hadn't read anything by this author in years. I'm so glad that I got to read something else by Ms. Butler.

I was drawn into this story from the first page. And I could identify with some of the struggles Lanita faced amongst her peers growing up. This story was simply dynamic. I enjoyed how Ms. Butler took us back through moments in history, such as the Len Bias tragedy and the L.A. Riots, etc. The only inconsistency I found within the story were the characters using the terms "Da bomb" and "diss" during the late 70's and 80's. To my knowledge that slang hadn't yet emerged during those times. :) But in a nutshell it was a superb and engaging story!

I read some of the other reviews for this book and had to agree with another reader, Phyllis. This book was a step into a different direction for Ms. Butler. I realy enjoyed this book. I love when authors can reached into another scope and not always be singled as Erotica, Mystery or Love/Hate Relationships, but can tap into something different to keep the readers on their toes. Lanita takes me back to the days of Jimmie Carter, Powder Cocaine, Rodney King and riotting for causes. Lanita Lightfoot aka Desire has experienced things other people, like myself, read about. Born in the activity of the Watts Riots, went through up and downs with Aretha, (her single mother) and a lucky father, Paul, who came into her life and left just as quick. Lanita's experiences has brought her to this upscale salon where she rehashes her days with the Jackson 5, Todd Bridges and Len Bias just to name a few up until she graduates from college many years later alongside her childhood friend, (now husband) Jermaine. I am looking forward to Ms. Butler touching our minds again soon.

Author Tajuana "TJ" Butler has done it again with her fourth novel, Just My Luck. Ms. Butler introduces the reader to Lanita Lightfoot and the family and friends that share various experiences with her. Lanita is 38-years old and is getting ready for her long awaited college graduation by going to a spa & hair salon. While at the salon, Lanita engages in a conversation about her life and the many experiences she has had over time. Lanita talks about her birth to an alcoholic mother (Aretha) and a lucky father (Paul). Born in a store during the 1965 Watts riot, Lanita's arrival saved the store from being vandalized. Lanita and her mother were rewarded with a rent-free stay at an apartment owned by the storeowner. She considers herself lucky because of the experiences she had in the past. Butler allows the reader a stroll down memory lane, as via Lanita, readers are exposed to several encounters with authors and celebrities (including the Jackson 5). Lanita learns about the many blessings she has received from the ups and downs she has experienced. She also learns to trust in God. This novel is very entertaining and also gives a history lesson as the story unfolds. It is different than Ms. Butler's previous novels because of the historical facts given during various time periods in Lanita's life. Ms. Butler has given readers something engaging and at times educational to read. I recommend this book and look forward to future novels written by Tajuana "TJ" Butler. Reviewed by Phyllis Ann Street APOOO BookClub

I have read each of Ms Butler's books, and I found myself enjoying this one a lot; It could be the twists and turns that Lanita had to experience throughout her life; being born during the Watts Riots, but somehow reaping unknown blessings behind it; Going through various periods of highs and lows that could either help or break you. It could be the various celebrities she met(the Jacksons,Iceberg Slim aka Robert Beck,Dorothy West,Len Bias etc) and the events that made our life in the 70s and 80s; What a great story; I could barely keep away from it and I read it in a day; One of the best Tajuana has written; What I find so empowering about it is that no matter what Lanita goes through, she always manages to get on top; that I found very empowering;