Don't Blame It On Rio
The Real Deal Behind Why Men Go To Brazil for Sex
by Jewel Woods
Grand Central Publishing

Every generation or so a book comes along that is certain to incite controversy. Michele Wallace’s manifesto Black Macho and the Myth of the Superwoman did just that in 1976 and now DON’T BLAME IT ON RIO: The Real Deal Behind Why Men Go To Brazil for Sex by Jewel Woods and Karen Hunter follows suit. A twenty-first century wake-up call that mixes issues of race, gender, class and sex, DON’T BLAME IT ON RIO will have conversations flowing at breakneck speed at book clubs, barbershops, beauty parlors and restaurants everywhere.

Based on research surveys for Woods’ doctoral dissertation, the book explores a seldom-discussed cultural trend: middle-class African-American men’s sexual adventures with the women of Brazil. Woods, a social worker and former guidance counselor, has spent much of his professional life talking to men about male accountability and the things that are important to them. These men gave him a look into the sex tourism business that was first explored in “Blame It on Rio,” the provocative article based on Woods’ research, in Essence magazine (2006). While that piece by scholar and historian William Jelani Cobb sought to investigate rumors surrounding the trend, Woods and Hunter tackle the subject head on with not just the how, but dealing with the why men are traveling to Rio to indulge.

The book provides tips on how women can notice certain behaviors in their partners and suggestions on how to deal with dire circumstances. Woods’ explains that in writing this book he’s hoping for “more information than excitement.” DON’T BLAME IT ON RIO is sure to get both.

This book will fly off the shelves into the briefcases and book bags of men, and the handbags of women who, after reading it, may embark on the arduous journey of discovery and honest communication.

List Price: $23.99 - Price: $16.31 - You Save: $7.68 (32%)

The January Girl
by Goldie Taylor
Grand Central Publishing

At a time in her life when things were falling apart, Thandy never thought she would’ve allowed a man to come to her rescue, let alone a married one. Their affair could have continued if Thandy hadn't learned from Jack's bitter wife that he had taken up with yet another woman. Thandy, having fought her whole life for everything she has achieved, realizes the true measure of her strength. But fate intervenes and sets into motion a series of events leading to a shocking climax that changes everything forever.

But she knew that Dr. Jackson Gabrielle was different the minute they met. And indeed, Jack knew that this enchanting creature was meant for him, despite the fact that he was already married.

Thandy and Jack's decade-long affair might have been continued indefinitely, the hard-working attorney and the high-profile surgeon scraping together moments for each other out of their crazed schedules, if Thandy hadn't learned from Jack's bitter wife that he had taken up with yet another woman. Thandy moves on, leaving Jack in Atlanta for a big job in Chicago. Jack, used to getting everything he has ever wanted with ease, is forced to figure out what it takes to hold on to something he loves. And Thandy, having fought her whole life for everything she has achieved, realizes the true measure of her strength. But fate intervenes and sets into motion a series of events leading to a shocking climax that changes everything forever.

Goldie’s site is www.goldietaylor.net

List Price: $13.99 - Price: $11.89 - You Save: $2.10 (15%)