Don't hesitate - get a copy of this book. It is the absolute best guide I've read on how to make and use your own spiritual and magical ritual tools. Why pay a lot of money for commerically made tools? It's fun to make your own! Learn how to make and use a ritual staff, wand, rune set, medicine shield, athame, and more.

"The Crafting and Use of Ritual Tools" contains all the information you will need to craft your own wands, staffs, and ritual daggers. Construction details are in step-by-step format, and the authors have included guidelines for adding personalized decorations. Highly recommended!

Rarely does a body of text capture the deep ethos of a definitive subculture the way "Go The Way Your Blood Beats" (ed. Shawn Stewart Ruff) does. Covering vast emotional terrain, this engaging compilation of short stories by African American gay and lesbian writers transcends temporal historical taxonomy by intermeshing works from distinguished luminaries, such as Alice Walker and James Baldwin, with lesser known contemporary authors. The interplay of diverse literary voices provides the reader with a refreshing fluctuation between uncanny raw realism and the sublime poetic stream of consciousness. Through divisions along contextual genres, Ruff also explores pivotal issues intrinsically tied to living, loving in the face of resistance. Incorporating quintessential coming of age stories, distinct identities, eros, and violence--among other things, the thematic distinctions work to convey polymorphic realms of experience. One of the most moving entries appears in the section entitled "Blood is Thicker Than Water", which peruses familial bonds. "Near the End of the World" by Bruce Morrow is a beautiful eulogy of a son recounting his father's death from AIDS. It incorporates reoccurring haunting visions of vines, a powerful metaphor for kinship, with poignant memoirs. By interweaving observation of physical attrition and mental deterioration with strong soliloquy, Morrow creates a vivid portrait that evokes consternation: "Remember me. I give you all these, my estate, my jewels, my leather chaps, my braided whip. Take it and use it sparingly. They don't know who you are until you pull out that mighty strap. It takes a masochist to create a sadist. Don't let them cut you to pieces. And don't be afraid to use commas. And explanation points--I know they're out of fashion." Another work "Smoke, Lilies, and Jade" by Richard Bruce Nuget (Harlem Renaissance extraordinare) captivates the reader with poetic verse and liquid imagery, celebrating an interracial gay love affair. With analogies such as "red cala lilies", the narrator relishes every attribute of his lover. "...We'll hang our hats on the crook of the moon... "and other romantic language also lends to a vicarious appreciation. References to famed literary friends, i.e. Langston Hughes, and influences make this piece ever more intruiging. The prolific anthology of brilliantly composed text speaks with honesty, love, and vitality. "Go The Way Your Blood Beats"has a lasting impact on the reader, as it holds sagacious truths. It is one of the greatest publications to come out this year.

With this wonderful compilation of some of America's finest African American authors - you can't lose. This is a great mix of humerous, mysterious and romantic short stories that will have you wanting to keep reading. Whatever your literary flavor....Gumbo serves it up.

This is an outstanding collection of stories by a wide variety of authors. There is something for every taste. Gumbo is a great introduction to a lot of new writers. Definitely a savory dish!

I love to read books about people like me and I love short stories...this book put both into one and introduced me to a variety of writers I didn't know about along with ones I already did. I ended up buying a couple more books because the short story was so interesting (ex. Douglass Women & Ain't nobody's business if I do). It's a very good source for writers to show off and I thoroughly enjoyed it and tried to roll with the WHOLE book page by page.

This novel is part-two to E.Lynn Harris' first novel Invisible Life. Once again we're engrossed in the lives of Raymond, Basil, Nicole and Kyle. We're introduced to newcomers like, Jared, Delaney, Gilliam, Pierce and Janelle. E.Lynn has chosen new locations such as Atlanta and trips back home to bring us into the pages of this wonderful story. Plus he still has things going on in his old stumping ground of New York. This was another book I can't put down.(May 1999) I picked this one up as soon as I completed Invisible Life and when I looked at the clock I realized I'd been reading and sitting in the same spot on my porch since the morning sunrise. This book is compelling, powerful and yes BOLD. It's laced with rich and beauitful language and continues to broaden your understanding of gay men and the choices they make. AWESOME! AWESOME! That's what comes to mind when I think of E.Lynn Harris and his writing style. Now it's on to Abide With Me, which is part three of this "AWESOME" trilogy. Once you experience E.Lynn Harris and his literary magic, you'll never see things the same.

This is my second book by Mr. Harris and I must say that I am truly impressed. Just As I Am was the perfect sequel to Invisible Life. I could not put it down! Now that I am done, I am on Amazon. com to buy the third book in Harris's trilogy! I did however get a bit irritated at Nicole's color hang-up. I mean, I can understand her pain of being teased as a child but come on, she's all grown up now and an actress and the winner of numerous beauty pagents. Pleeezze!! It was refreshing in a way to know that Jared was not gay and yet had no qualms about he and Ray's friendship. But still a little part of me wanted him to be with Ray! E.Lynn Harris has really opened my eyes to the gay African-American community. I really enjoy reading his work and I just hope that he can write them as fast I can read them!!!

E. Lynne Harris is absolutely amazing! My boyfriend bought the trilogy of books home (Invisible Life, Just As I Am, and Abide With Me), and right around the time I had started to question his sexuailty, I picked it up and kept reading until I finished all three (I realized I was out the loop for not having read these sooner). This book however was my favorite of the three. Harris is able to deal with the characters of this book with a honesty that humanizes them to the utmost, and at times made me laugh, cry, and scream with them. A face is put on the sufferers of HIV and AIDS, as Harris takes us through Kyle's struggle with the diseases. Although Kyle may seem like he is dying, I soon learned he knew more about life than most people who live full, healthy lives. I rarely have had a book move me to the point of tears, but this is the one. I was often annoyed with Nicole, and her confusion and self-hate about her skin color, but I came to realize that these are human things. I am so impressed with this book, because Harris seeks not only to entertain, but successly taught me life lessons as well...

As usual ELH does his business of writing very interesting novels. If you haven't read the books in sequence it definitely puts things into perspective w/Basil and others.

E. Lynn Harris' new book was one I had to read in a day. I could not put it down. First of all, the characters drew me in to all aspects of there lives. I felt I could feel their happiness, their pain, and their frustrations. The characterization that Mr. Harris develops is so true to life that anyone can look into their own life and identify with each person. Leland, the sweet sole that he is, all I wanted was for him to find love. Dwight, this brother made peace with his past. In doing so, he opened his heart to receive love. Yolanda, now this sista, I felt for her. Basil pretty much swept her off her feet and I do believe he loved her. I knew that she would be alright, but you could not help feeling sympathetic towards Basil. I am waiting for the sequel to this book because I want to know if Basil can actually tell his father what his uncle did to him. All I can say is DEEP. As much as I loved this book, it was not as good as his first. However, Mr. Harris is still a very talented writer and I will continue to look forward to anything that he does.

After reading books mostly for educational purposes - to dive into a E Lynn Harris book is truly a pleasure. I read this book while on a 2 day business trip. Then made my way to the nearest bookstore to purchase his previous novel, "And This Too Shall Past" and finish that book on the flight back home. Mr. Harris has a unique style of writing that, apart from the sexual issues, whether you agree or disagree, his characters create a lasting impression upon his readers. March 16th (the release date of his next novel) can not come soon enough! Hat's Off!!

This is the first E. Lynn Harris novel I have ever read. Let me tell you that it will not be the last. His sharp writing, precise wit and incredible narration are one of the best I have recently read. I love the story of ex-football player turned sports agent John "Basil" Henderson and up-and-coming, ego-is-larger-than-actual-fame Broadway star Yancey Harrington Braxton. Their love story illustrates how childhood traumas could affect adult relationships. I love John's character; he is a very earnest and very confused man. In fact, all of the characters are earnest and real. I have met my fair share of Basils or Yanceys or Avas (Yancey's wayward mother) in life. This is a great novel. E. Lynn Harris is a very talented contemporary writer. I strongly recommend that you give this book a whirl.

E.Lynn Harris has done it yet again and he brought Basil Henderson along for the ride. I expected nothing less from this awesome,talented and powerful author. I couldn't wait to get my copy and had it reserved for weeks before it's release date. The story pulls you in to an unforgettable and shocking tale of your past coming back to haunt you and it will definately keep you glued to your sit. From beginning to end this was a HOT book to read. Our book club is eagerly waiting to discuss this book as we do all of his others. This book deserves a plus 5 star rating and will be on the bestseller list for weeks and months to come. You won't be disappointed with this book and if you're not an E.Lynn Harris fan already, there must to something wrong with you. You'll never forget him, his style or the characters he's created that, you'll come to love and hate. BRAVO! BRAVO! to E.Lynn. I'm looking to the memoirs book and I know there's a part II to this awesome and fierce book. Yancey and Ava are screaming it now. Plus, they need the tables turned on them and the screws tighten just a bit more. Hope you're listening to them.

This is a well thought out story of love, sex, hidden secrets, and betrayal. I really liked this book. E. Lynn Harris is probably the most popular black fiction writer today, and his novels blend romantic stories that deal with controversial issues such as race, AIDS, and bisexuality.

In this story, Basil Henderson, a handsome ex-football player who has a history of loving both men and women, decides to marry Yancey, a fledging Broadway star. There marriage is only two months away and fate seems to be threatening their possible future together. Ava, Yancey's mother, who has always controlled her daughter, is about to meet her match in Basil. Is Yancey as bad as she seems, or is she really in love? Is she for real? Or is she just out for Basil's money? And how can Basil keep his other sexual life a secret from his future bride? Is he ready to be a give up his affairs with men. The story becomes more and more complicated as secrets are kept and more lies are told. What will really happen?

I did care about these characters and how their lives were going to turn out. I think that's a good sign of a talented writer. I will be eager to see what this author has in store for us in his next book. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did. It's got my recommendation!

I read this book when it first came out. I met and spoke with Mr. Harris briefly when he gave a lecture at my university in 1997. I am glad he wrote this book because he is telling the world what they should know about the invisible lives of black men and the women that they hurt. I think the author's writing style is extremely simplistic but I felt it was decent for a first novel. This book really made an impression on me because it was really my first look at how difficult life can be for a gay black man. One thing that I did not like about it was how Mr. Harris gave the impression through his depiction of Ray that most black men have these feelings and struggle with them. He seemed to give the impression that any man could be turned on to homosexuality if he found a man who was persistent enough which I don't believe at all. I never read anymore of Mr. Harris's books for that reason. However I do applaud his efforts to expose the lies carried on by men in our community.

In his first book Invisible Life, the author E. Lynn Harris introduced me to a world which before this was truly invisible and unknown to me. The chronicle of Raymond over a number of years described not only the life of a black man but one who was bisexual as well. Meeting Raymond Daly first as a young Southern college student deeply involved in a heterosexual relationship with his college sweetheart, to the days of his affair with a gay black man and then a black actress, to an acquiantance dying of AIDS, this book is especially memorable and poignant. It isn't any wonder then, that by the end of the book Ray is beset with uncertainties as to his sexuality. Pressure from his family not to even think of himself as a homosexual, hiding his bisexuality from the stodgy law firm he works for and then meeting a beautiful black actress who falls in love with him, by the books end, Ray must finally decide to consider the direction of his realtionships and his sexual life.

I found this book to be an easy read. Perhaps a bit too easy. It only took me les than a day to finish the book and at times I found the writing was like a very long coversation, instead of a novel. Despite this The characters were finely drwan and I am looking forward to reading the next two books in this series to see the final decisions Ray makes regarding his life.

A friend gave me Invisible Life to read on a road trip. I am the type of person where as if something doesn't grab my attention right away, it's a problem. After picking up the book at several different times, I almost decided not to continue it. While bored out of my mind, I picked it up and just read and read and read, until the book was finished. What took several weeks to start, only took what seemed like moments to finish. I can appreciate a new author. It's not easy putting all the thoughts that linger in your mind for so long into a masterpiece on the first try. Raymond Tyler's college years vividly reminded me of my own. I stopped for a moment to think of how many black male athletes at my school were possibly gay. This opened up a new frame of thought for me. I have known several women athletes who were bi-sexual, but never had I phantomed the notion of black male athletes being gay. For a moment, I wondered how Harris would describe two men making love tastefully, and without intimidating passive minds. At any rate, he gave the book a dramatic twist that kept me constantly reading trying to figure out what would happen next. I couldn't wait to get the the next novel.

It took me a few days to open this book but when I did I couldn't put it down. Once I started reading it, I finished it in 24 hours. I've read several others by E. Lynn Harris but I only read them by chance not because I'm a big fan. Now I have to read Not a Day Goes By since I didn't realiaze this was a sequel.

I enjoyed the characters and was transfixed to the book, but was disappointed with the ending. The way he left this thing with Desmond & Yancey so unfinished it seems like he has already planned another book...And he worked up this situation with Basil and Nico only to have nothing happen with them in the end. Basil and Rosa is another area that was short...I felt he should have had Rosa re-enter the picture a little while earlier and that was stupid story line to have her say she wanted to raise the baby alone - no one wants to raise a child alone. And for Ava to go down without a cat fight was out of character for her. Another thing was Raymond Tyler - there was something he was about to do but he was never mentioned again. This book started out like a big juicy green grape but ended up ended like a dried up raisin. I felt the same way about Abide With Me. I will not pay full price again for another of these books. I have truly been enlightened about gay and bi relationships, but the only thing that makes me want to keep this book is the beautiful work done on the front and back cover.

I just finished reading this book in 2 days I must say that this was a good read but definitely NOT one of his better ones. I thought it was a bit soap opera-ish and the characters didn't really make me care for them. Basil was never one of my favorite characters until now. He seems too finally seen the light. I hope it stays that way. The book appeared to be an exact replica of "Not A Day Goes By"...you can definitely categorize this as a sequel to "Not A Day Goes By". But I felt a little cheated. I was under the impression that we were going to found out more about Basil. Why is Basil the way he turned out. Don't get me wrong this book is a good book to read with lots of twists and surprises in store but I was expecting more intimate and background information on Basil Henderson. I did enjoy the way it ended. It was totally unexpecting and heartwarming. E Lynn Harris if you are reading this...please write more on Raymond Tyler. He is definitely one of my favorite characters. Read the book but don't expect another version of "Invisible Life" or "Just As I Am". Those 2 books are CLASSICS!

Bravo! Bravo! E lynn Harris certainly did again! I'd been waiting on the release of another book by this author which seemed like eternity. I must say that Harris never ceases to amaze me. The infamous Mr Basil Henderson is back! still up to his old tricks, I wonder if he'll ever change (you ask yourself?. Only this time he is paired with what seemed like the forever evil, wicked, Yancey Braxton, who, suprisingly in this novel, receives a wake up call!!!. She meets a wonderful person by the name of Windsor, who, irrespective of Yancey;'s nature, see the soul within this apparent demon. I believe in giving people the benefit of my doubt, so I kept my mind open to the probability of change in terms of Yancy ways!! I had hoped though, that her scheming and manipulative character would of continued, as it added spice! to his books. The so together, so orderely Raymond Tyler Junior rears his head once again, this time in the role as Basil's advisor/confidant and attorney. Bizarre I know! I do think that Raymond has a story to tell about his relationship with Kevin (you really need to read between the lines for this one) as the focus is on Basil. The author leaves this interpretation to our own minds and ways of thinking. Sorry! I don't want to give the whole plot away so i'll cease here! This is a "MUST READ NOVEL", and if you have no other E Lynn Harris novels, this will tell you a little about his excellent ability to take us on his wonderful, magical journey into the world of him.

Got To Be Real is an eclectic array of short love stories. There is something for everyone. First off we have Cafe Piel by EJD (***). This stories writing style is very different from previous EJD work. It has a mexican vibe. This story is not bad, but not great either. The story did not have the EJD flair and the sex appeal was not as hot as previous writings. Secondly, Marcus Majors steps up to bat with Kenya and Amir (*****+). Marcus should have been last because he is definitely the clean up man with this wonderfully written short story. This story has so much charisma; by far the best story. The end still has me wondering did she open the door or did'nt she? It's DA BOMB! Thirdly, we have E. Lynn Harris, with Money Can't Buy Me Love (*****). This is vintage Harris at his best. This is a story that touches the heart. Lastly, we have Colin Channer with I'm Still Waiting (**) and that I am. This story was too long and drawn out. It was also a challenging read, I don't know if it was because I had to break out the dictionary or because some of the language was spoken in patois. Whatever the reason I was not feelin' it. My reaction to this story is not surprising, because I've been reading Mr. Channer's book Waiting In Vain on and off for about 3 months. I really appreciate these four authors coming together for this project. Four brothers each telling their own tale of love.

To say the most is to say the least. It is time to give credit to four well-deserving authors on a book I read 2 months ago.....

Eric Jerome Dickey, who I've been familiar with for the past few years, did a wonderful job with his short story. Although I thought Cafe Piel was a little dry in the beginning for someone of Dickey's stature, it paid off in the end. Keep up the good work Eric.

Marcus Major's work is something I have to get used to. This is the 1st encounter with one of his stories. Marcus, you did a stupendous job! I loved this story (Kenya was very smart and wise!). What more can I say? Everyone will cry and laugh when they read this story.

E. Lynn Harris, I have enjoyed all of your books (all 6 that I own) and I am looking forward to your new book coming out this summer. I enjoyed this short story as well. You are definitely a man of many talents.

Colin Channer, new to the game, as far as I am concerned. What was surprising is this was the only story in the book I had to finish, without putting the book down. I actually look forward to getting to the end of the story (which really didn't suprise me). Your character Patience, held her stamina and basically thought she was running the show. However, little did she know what was in store for her. Keep up the good work Colin!

Yes, this book definitely deserved 5 stars for all 4 authors. Maybe we can get 4 women authors to repeat the process. One day, I anticipate meeting all 4 authors and acquiring signatures on my book. Thanks for making it a success!

I preordered this novel when I heard several of my favorite authors had come together for this compilation. This book had four different love stories that were written by four very different writers. Each story reflected their differences. Oh, what wonderful stories they were.

Eric Jerome Dickey's story is a departure from his usual humorous and crafty dialogue. It is well written and the dialogue is great, but avid Dickey fans will immediately read the difference.

Marcus Major's story is the love story of Kenya and Amir. I actually read Good Peoples before this compilation, so you know I was scratching my head until I realize that it was the prequel to Good Peoples. Major writes beautifully and he has a way of making you laugh and cry at the same time.

All I can say about E. Lynn Harris' story, is Thank Goodness! He has returned to writing in the style that I became accustomed to when I read his very first novel. A love story with heart. The love scenes have returned to this story, because in most of his recent novels he has tamed them down, but not in this story. I loved this story.

Those who know me, know I love anything written by Colin Channer. I find his writing profound, beautiful, and rich with descriptive phrases. He can turn a phrase into its most eloquent form. His writing is so classy and eclectic. His style is so different and yet so awe inspiring. When I read anything by him, he transports me into the story where I feel his words. I feel the heat he has generated. I just feel.

This compilation of short stories is a wonderful way to inspire your own love story. Wonderful!

I, as well, have read ALL of E. Lynn Harris' books and I can honestly say that I truly enjoyed each and every one. And when I noticed his book, "Abide With Me" in the window of a bookstore in the mall. I nearly knocked people over to get to the shelf. I was so excited... It was like reuniting with old friends. When I opened the book and began to read I was glad that Basil was trying to come to terms with his issues. However, I was very disappointed with Nicole. I mean E. Lynn Harris characterized her as being a total idiot...I'm sorry...he lead us to believe in his previous works that Nicole was this sharp, well educated sister, that truly has it together, but yet she allows this Yancey to come in to her life and play her the way she did. I'm sorry I was not convinced, nor was I pleased with the way he characterized her in this book. And furthermore, he left a lot of things unanswered regarding the characters... What was that all about. I'm going to give him the benefit of the doubt and say that he purposely ended "Abide With Me" the he did to leave us wondering and wanting more.... And if this is infact, the case, E.Lynn Harris has succeeded in doing what every good writer hopes for from his readers....

I have read all of E. Lynn Harris books. I bought the book in Virgina Beach,VA. I did not leave the mall before starting to read the book. It was a slow start, but I was familiar with the characters, Raymond, Trent, Nicole, Jared and of course, bad boy Basil Henderson. I must confess after about 150 pages I had to read the ending. I was disappointed with the ending. After going back and reading the reminder of the novel, the ending was quite unique, it made me think about life, the adjustments we make for others in our lives and for the things in their lives we can not change. I am looking forward to discussing this novel with the members of our book club(Sistah to Sistah) on next week, we are be fans of E. Lynn Harris. Anticipate reading his next work. Keep the good work E.Lynn!!!

I was hooked on E.Lynn Harris from jump street. I read everyone of his books in 3-4 days. Abide With Me was supreme...I couldn't put it down most of the time. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a serious DRAMA! That Yancey was too much and got exactly what she deserved...NOTHING. How could she and Ava be so coldhearted toward Nicole. That Basil Henderson is a true piece of work full of himself and BULL too.I look forward to reading about him constantly, and think he needs a book dedicated totally to him. Seeing Raymond struggle with issues of commitment, love, and truth was heartwarming. I found myself being his and Nicole's personal cheerleader. I'm glad they became friends again and that both are happy. Ava's hatred toward Nicole was so real and typical in showbiz. Blaming everyone and everything for her non-success.I feel like I'm in the story at times. E.Lynn knows how to capture his audience and keep us........It's soooo abiding..