I don't tend to read this genre but I must say I really enjoyed reading the book... I found the book a nicely flowing, entertaining read. Feeling the friendship between the characters enabled you to easily step into the story and feel  the love, laughter, drama and tears of the close group...One friend crosses the line... the whole group falls to pieces and you almost feel annoyed with them for making it happen. A sad and hurtful time for them all, leading to a shocking discovery... Available at  amazon.co.uk

Beck Valley Books "Keep real books alive!"

 

Exodus was a breath of fresh air, as entrancing as the wonderful character of Aqua. As a reader, I felt Aqua grow, fall in love with a man that truly deserves her, and begin to live life in the fullest. Noel---mmmmm….Ms. Marquette draws an image of a man that is human and oh-so-believable. That’s the magic behind April Alisa Marquette’s writing---she slips the reader into a world where her characters are believable—filled with mistakes, grief, pain, joy, and love. As always, she gives me a character I love to hate---who doesn’t deserve the beautiful heroine or her love. Thankfully, the hero is her perfect foil, and April’s description is always a bit breath taking, but human...

 

 

On Sowing - I like good sequels because that means there is more of the story to come… Why is Jessica’s story so important? It is a story of her life and how she rose above adversity to become a powerful woman of God. In Sowing, the second installment of the Relinquish and Reap series, Jessica is a pre-teen. She suffers...  

Jessica made it through by drawing closer to God and praising Him through the storms of her life. Her story is one of healing, redemption, and hope.

 

 

On Turnabout - As a reader of mostly Self-help/New Age writings I didn't think I would find myself captivated by what I thought to be a "Romance Fiction" book. Turnabout was recommended to me by a friend so I picked it up and wondered what was the story behind the elegant grand room on the cover? I quickly found myself engulfed in the story of every woman's life; a tale of romance, betrayal, secrets, heartache, trust, faith, and hope between family, friends, and lovers. As I found a piece of myself in many of the characters, I realized that at some point, one if not all, of the characters has been every woman or man I know.  It's a must-read that will pull you away from your present world and take you through suspense, joy, pain, and laughter.

 

 

5 stars 

Read in October, 2010

I loved Exodus the characters are well rounded and you experienced what they felt. Sultry Aqua wants to get married but Dyson a supper club owner does not. He suggests Aqua fill in for his supper club hostess, she does and meets Noel a dashing business owner who invites her to accompany him to several coastal isles. Strange things begin to happen to Aqua on the little known Miraunga Isle, She begins to sleepwalk, she also takes refuge in a centuries old cemetery. She has become privy to disturbing things. Aqua believes she witnessed a murder. She needs answers desperately. However her inquires have caused problems. Someone or something desires to take Aqua'ss life. Dashing Noel is bewildered and out of options, so he summons the high Priestess from a neighboring isle. As they nervously wait, they can only hope that the priestess will arrive before its too late.. a must read for mystery romance lovers.

 

I loved Turnabout its a beautifully written story about love, heartbreak and betrayal. Abigail is a successful business woman. On the surface it seems she has it all. But as we read further we see Abigail as a scorned woman. She is involved with two men Darre her ex who married another women and Joseph her long time friend who is secretly in love with her and hates to see her hurt and heart broken. He wants to be more than a friend to her but Abigail doesn't see him that way yet. She thinks he just wants to be her friend .Although Darre and Abigails relationship is over he still wants to be in her life and he keeps coming around. Abigail decides enough is enough and tries to distance herself from him. Joseph hates Darre for what he has put Abigail through. Will Joseph and Darre come to blows over Abigail. If they do who will be the victor? This is a powerful love story kept me reading from page one.

 

On Turnabout - Enjoyed the story, but hated the ending. I wanted to know who...

 

On Turnabout - I'm a sixty-something. Normally I read non-fiction, religous, self-help, and many other types of informative books. I have most of your fiction books though, but finding the time to read, during my hectic life is the problem. I went on vacation, and read Abigail and Joseph's story. I really liked it, and the male character. There is something that he said to Abigail near the end of the book that made my heart flip. I have since started on 'Exodus' but don't tell the members at my church. I don't know if they could handle these books, or the idea that I am reading them. (That is a little joke.) Yet the experiences are so real, they are almost raw at times. The hope and the love shines through. Ms. Marquette you are my new relaxation favorite. I see you write non-fiction too. I hope to pick up the sequel to Exodus. 

 

I got why it's called Turnabout. Great Story. Will there be a sequel?

 

 

Hot and Steamy,

By OOSA Online Book Club "O.O.S.A. Gets It Read!"

"Turnabout" is a story of love and betrayal. Abigail, the heroine, is a successful business woman who everyone turns to for whatever problems they may have. On the surface it's seems like Abigail leads a charmed life, but as we delve deeper into the book, we see Abigail is a scorned woman. Abigail is involved with Darre, her ex-fiancé, and long-term friend, Joseph.

 

Joseph wants to be Abigail's significant other but he's afraid of pushing her away, Abigail wants Joseph as well, but she thinks Joseph doesn't want her; thus the cat and mouse game begins. Although Abigail and Darre's relationship is over, Darre still tries to find ways to stay in her life.

 

Abigail decides enough is enough and distances herself permanently from Darre. Will Darre fight to say in Abigail's life? Joseph is determined to get him out of the picture. Will Darre and Joseph come to blows? Who will be the victor?

 

April Alisa Marquette keeps the pages turning in this powerful, erotic story.

 

 

 

 

I’m a big fan of Ms. Marquette’s work and TURNABOUT, her latest novel,  is a beautifully written masterpiece. Ms. Marquette's writing delves deep into emotions that are not easily written or discussed, heartbreak, death, friendship, and the glory of love. I couldn’t put down this page turner and wanted to sob with Abigail during her difficult moments, cheer her on in her happier moments, pummel Darre (goodness, what a horrible individual!), and secretly urge the romantic and oh-so-decent Joseph on with the each chapter. This is a lovely, lovely story that is worth reading again and again.

Tamela Quijas --Author, Blood Moon

 

 

 

 

Ms. Marquette’s book, Absolution, was an interesting read and touched my heart, ranking 4 stars in my rating system... Revolving around the lives of four dedicated friends and the unspoken love that exists between them, the ensuing drama is believable and threatens everything they believe in. The hurt feelings, mistrust and bitter words that are enchanged, as well as the pain wrenching sense of betrayal, is believable. The last few chapters of Absolution are heart wrenching but left me cheering for Beau and his true sense of forgiveness despite overwhelming odds.  He is portrayed as a true friend, despite all odds.

Ms. Marquette’s phrase, “Love never dies, never walks out on you and never regrets” is beautifully well said and fits the situations that are explored in Absolution.

http://tamelaquijas.wordpress.com/  

 

 

OnSeedling - that book is so little n cute. It made me laugh. I learned something. I was abused n no body knew. I had tears too. That book was good for me. There is another one. Yes?

 

 

 

Just finished reading Seedling it's a very interesting, heartbreaking, teachable, charming, hilarious book. A must read. Highly recommended. Congratulaions to Jessica and April!

 

 

 

On Exodus - Read in August, 2009 Exodus gets * * * *. In the beginning, it was really slow. But once I got past that, I couldn't put the book down. The characters were well rounded and you experenced what they felt. You watch Aqua fall in love and start living for herself.

There were only a few things that I disliked about this book. Another was that she included Aqua's friends' lives. I don't understand why. The majority of the book revolves around Aqua and Noel. And in the beginning it changes between her life and two of her friends' lives. But I'm glad she tied them up in the end and told what happened with them. But I will have to find out why she included them, incase there is a meaning behind it.

Overall this book was good. I would recommend it.

 

 

 

 

Absolution is about the lives of four friends. With drama piled on top of drama, will this group remain friends till the end?

Absolution was a very good book. It was entertaining, enjoyable and fun. I really liked

April Marquette's message that love never dies, never walks out on you and never regrets. The only thing I would have liked to have seen different with this novel is for a certain character to be happy with someone of her own. Hopefully there will be a sequel.

  

 

Dear April:

My response has been so long in coming because I have forced myself to slowly read only a few chapters a day of Absolution. I've completed your book a few minutes ago, and I am lonesome, missing participation in your characters' lives. You should be so proud of being the author of Absolution! Your book was sad and tense and jolted me a few times. Absolution. drew me into a world and culture, which wasn't mine, but which became mine through your captivating prose. I am so proud of you.

Love,

 

 

Progression is a wonderful story, with a lot of ups and downs, and a few surprises that made me laugh! This is an amazing story and I can't wait to finish the others in the series!

 

 

I've read Absolution & Progression very good books and that is coming from a man. Damn the lady can create a story. The charactors and the story line brings you into a different place when you want to leave the place your at, I can believe that this is real, and the wedding is wonderful, something I would love to have.

 

 

The book Absolution is a tasty treat. I have to read whenever I can. I feel like I am actually there in the story because the writing is so real until it actually becomes visible to me. I don't really read all the time but I find myself reading this material all of the time and when I can't I want to. Very gifted and skillful writing. Everyone should experience these books.

 

 

Absolution & Progression are both excellent reads. The characters are real, I could feel their emotions. Each character, has their own "inner demons" I just could not put these books down! I highly reccomend both books to all. I anticipate with excitement...the arrival of Exodus.

 

 

I really like this author's books. I've got the first and the second Absolution & Progression. Can't wait for the third. I need to peek at Beau's private life -- HaHaHa! And that other book Exodus sounds like I might want to sleep with the lights on. Miss April, as long as you keep writing them, I'll keep reading them. I love you!

 

 

On Absolution - April, that's absolutely awesome. I'm mad proud of you! You're rocking the bells!

 

 

(Reading Absolution) Off the chain! Ronni and Vaughn are such whores! Luv it!

 

 

Child.....I have now purchased and will read all of your books. Love Ya!

 

 

On Absolution - A gifted writer with a new perspective of life. Can't wait for the new book!!!

 

 

Hi April -- Re: Absolution - Great storytelling! Your characters have so much drama going on, many of us can relate. Keep up the great writing :)

 

 

 

Dear Writer,

I am a white professional woman who purchased and read both Absolution & Progression. I was not disappointed. Actually, starting with the first book I fell in love. I will purchase the third book in the Cohorts trilogy too. I can't wait! You cannot write them fast enough for me. I must tell you, I have told everyone I know about these books. The stories are just so real, they defy color, creed, and race. They just showcase people. I felt as if I knew the characters. I laughed aloud, and I cried -- oh I cried on one part especially (I won't mention which). I am your fan Ms. Marquette! I am a fan forever! I know I seem to be writing a book here myself, but let me say this: when I turned the last page in Progression I felt sad that the story ended. I really felt like I was no longer going to see my 'family' members. I am not crazy, nor have I ever felt this way before about any piece of literature, whether the author was Asian, Russian, white, or African-American. You are universal, you touch the heart. Please hurry with more books. God bless you.

 

 

Hey April,

Finished Progression. I really dig Beau's story line and it was cool how u had that little red-head boy so well described! I feel as if I met him. Awesome job. You rock!

 

"Progression" continues with the foundation laid and characters of "Absolution." The Cohorts return and drama is their middle name.

 

April Alisa Marquette's second book is a great piece of work. She has another winner. Marquette 's imagination is vivid, her characters lively and the story flowed well. I'm looking forward to the third part of this trilogy.