 February 2006
Steven
by Marvin Curtis Reid
Marvin Curtis Reid is a serious novelist. He’s not the type of author who gives you a story based on half-truths; rather, he does the research and gives you fiction that resembles the truth. Marvin’s novels are the real deal. His second book, STEVEN is a journey into the world of domestic abuse from a most unique perspective, par for our society. This unique story centers on the abuse of an African-American male. The eye-opener for this tale is how the story is written. Not many stories are depicted about battered husbands and boyfriends. The popular belief is that this type of abuse is mainly a woman’s domain, but rising statistics tell us it’s more prevalent than we realize. The story takes place in modern-day New York City. Steven is a young Black urban professional who meets a beautiful woman on the streets of New York and they begin dating. Julie is high maintenance, independent, and a stunningly attractive woman who owns a Brownstone in Harlem. Her aggressive style attracts and intrigues him enough to fall in love, which is the beginning of his nightmare. The dark side of this pretty lady emerges, and Steven becomes her favorite victim.
I was impressed with the way that the author portrayed the soul and spirit of Steven. Readers will readily be drawn into this drama! Reid created rich characters full of human emotion, which will allow pity to be the main ingredient in understanding his ordeal. Paradoxically, his refusal to stay away from this woman who beats him so brutally makes you want to see how far it takes you. She almost kills him on more than once occasion adding fuel to the fire, making you angry and fearful for his safety. Julie, the girlfriend from hell, will chill your bones. The madness in the character’s personality and her dark and evil acts will give you a villain you will love to hate. This is not a pretty ride and parts of the book are raw and revealing. The physical assaults on Steven will make cringe as you imagine both his physical and emotional pain. You almost wish that the court system would have been an ally, but does little to keep him safe. What defense does Steven render? And what turns the tide for him? Steven’s needed to do the right thing, and his feelings of inadequacy make him a continuing vulnerable target. Finally, his spiritual strength kicks in and he moves on, but Julie will not let him be. She stalks him until the very end.
STEVEN is a book that you read in one sitting. I did, because I wanted to know so badly how the book was going to end. It was suspenseful and gripping. I enjoyed crying for Steven in his worst moments, and cheering him on when he was strong. I recommend this book to readers who appreciate a good storyline, great characters, and crisp clear writing. Marvin Curtis Reid is an author to keep an eye on. I’d rate this book a 4.5 because it was just that close to being a perfect read.
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