Official Review: ROXY by Robert O. Smith

[Momlovesbooks]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "ROXY" by Robert O. Smith.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Roxy, by Robert O. Smith, is a fictional, young adult novel. The story follows the life of a working class Jamaican, Rafer (Rafe) Cartwright. He is a very intelligent individual, but lacked the proper educational stimulation. Then as Rafe reached his seventeenth birthday, Sir Usain Alt became his geography/history teacher. He had the ability to inspire the students and push them to think outside the box. He became Rafe's mentor and life-long friend.

After he graduated, Rafe intended on going to college. However, the tough economic times during the 1970's pushed him to look to the United States for better employment. Using his mentor's connections in the States, he found a job and a place to live with Usain's cousin. However, he was naive and didn't understand the dark side of the streets. His life became a nightmare that could only be overcome by the love of a special canine and a human.

The first chapter of this book was a glimpse into the distant past that caught my attention and drew me into the story. The author then jumped ahead to the more recent past. I was impressed how he wove historical facts into the life story of the main character, Rafe. I learned interesting facts about Jamaica's history without it seeming like a dry history lesson.

Rafe was a well-developed character with many interesting layers, from his athletic prowess to his scholastic abilities. The author knew how to make his characters come alive on the pages. I fell in love with his little dog, Mutu. The love between Rafe, his girlfriend Wendy and Mutu was my favorite part of the book.

The settings ranged from Jamaica to New Jersey. The stark contrast between the areas was enhanced by the author's descriptive writing. At times I could feel the heat of the island and then be transported to the freezing winters of New Jersey.

About a quarter of the way into the book, I became a little bogged down. The story took a dip into the underbelly of New Jersey. Drugs, prostitution and the Mafia became a central theme. Some of the language and sexual situations were graphic and definitely not suitable for young readers. However, after a few chapters, the story introduced Rafe's two loves, his dog and Wendy. I'm a dog lover and could immediately relate to his relationship with his dog, Mutu. I know a book is memorable when it brings me to tears. Also, there was a twist in the book that surprised me.

I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. The editing appears to be professional with no glaring mistakes. The story is enjoyable and moves at a good pace. I think mature fans of many different genres will enjoy this book.

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ROXY
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[Xenos]

eloquent and artistically drafted. I think the upcomong generation can learn much about the author and the message. Grammer-check, genre-check and the flow is a wink.

[kandscreeley]

I saw this one to review, but I think the cover kind of confuses me. It sounds like a good novel, but it definitely doesn't sound appropriate for younger young adults. Still, I might have to give it a try (as I'm an adult anyway.)

[raikyuu]

Am I the only one who is confused with the book cover? Anyway, I do agree with kandscreeley that:

it definitely doesn't sound appropriate for younger young adults.

Well, if the dark themes are presented in a way that is accessible to young adults, it would be an appropriate read for them. Good review.

[sophiemer642]

This sounds like a great book! I read the whole review, and I'm probably going to place a hold on it at the library. It sounds adventurous, and the main character goes through a difficult time financially, which is something many people can relate to of this age.

[Athena Moon]

Am I the only one who is confused with the book cover? Anyway, I do agree with kandscreeley that:

it definitely doesn't sound appropriate for younger young adults.

Well, if the dark themes are presented in a way that is accessible to young adults, it would be an appropriate read for them. Good review.

I got confused as well! The cover seemed much darker than the actual story behind it. Although, I do believe that books are most appropriate when it comes to introducing the dark side, especially to young people. I, myself got introduced to it through Candy.

[Kitkat3]

Great review! This is not what I expected the book to be about, just from the name and cover. I like that this is about so many things and that there is a dog in the story.

[Nthabeleng]

I thought the book is about someone named Roxy but it sounds interesting. Great review.

[The Researcher]

Nice review! The book sounds interesting but I think its not for me.