In CIRCUMSTANCES by newcomer Yolanda Johnson, we are introduced to the confident, self-reliant, and cocky persona of Renee Jackson. Renee and her mother, Barbara Jean, have this hate-hate relationship. In spite of the mental and physical abuse inflicted upon Renee by her mother, she somehow is able to rise above it and successfully builds a life of her own. Renee’s one female friend, Marlene, is equally as draining to her and only calls upon her when she is in need of cash. Renee’s finds solace in Charlie Thatcher, her dearest friend and co-worker who lives in San Francisco. Renee is actually in love with Charlie, but is unable to commit to him.

     Renee jumps at the opportunity to free herself from all of the baggage with her mother and Marlene in Denver when Charlie arranges a promotion for her in the company. The only catch is that the promotion is in the San Diego office, hundreds of miles away from Denver, Colorado. 

Charlie and Renee become closer after the move. That is until one Stuart Humphries, an arrogant man who Renee is strongly attracted to, enters the picture. Renee met Stuart years ago through Internet chatting, but the sparks really begin to fly with them being in such close proximity of each other. Will Renee ever find happiness in San Diego? Will she be able to sever the ties with her controlling, abusive mother? Will the past came back to haunt them all?

     I thoroughly enjoyed Ms. Johnson’s writing style. She clearly has a knack for storytelling, as the dialogue used throughout was very witty and entertaining. Ms. Johnson started you off at the top of the roller coaster, but instead of heading straight down, she sidetracked you with a lot of twists and turns that will certainly have you turning the pages to find out your next journey. I look forward to the sequel, which after you read the ending, you will certainly understand why. -  -Vanessa A. Johnson "When Death Comes A Knockin' & Read In Color Reviewer

 Oh, what a tangled web we weave..., February 1, 2006

By	M. Bruner ""Deltareviewer" Real Page ... (Oklahoma!) -

We all know that the experiences of your childhood can color the way that you view life. You can clearly see Renee's childhood issues as she strives to find peace and happiness. Renee's mother, Barbara Jean, was emotionally abusive and neglectful throughout her life. Despite this fact she managed to educate herself and succeed in her field of expertise. It wasn't until Renee searched for love to warm her heart that the wall of defense was erected to protect her soul. 

Renee worked hard to rid herself of toxic relationships but found herself surrounded by users. Her best friend, Marlene, continually asked for money and belittled Renee's every move. Renee simply tolerated her brother as he never did anything to help or encourage her. She had been sexually abused and emotionally ostracized from and by other family members. Meanwhile, she had one constant in her life, Charlie. The only issue was that his mother could not stand to look at Renee which made marrying Charlie virtually impossible. As Renee grew closer to God, her options begin to open and her heart experienced joy with a man she met over the Internet, Stuart. But Stuart has a past that would intertwine their lives in more then one way. Will Renee be able to live happily ever after? 

From the opening page to the dramatic ending, CIRCUMSTANCES is a powerful tale of love and forgiveness. Johnson pulls no punches as she vividly describes the mental, emotional and physical impact of abuse and not just to the victim. The character driven storyline also shows the psychological impact on those who love Renee and want to act on her behalf but feel helpless. However, there are several typographical errors and formatting issues that kept this tale from reaching the 5-star level. In spite of this, CIRCUMSTANCES is a page-turning drama that will keep you interested and wanting more. Hopefully we will see Renee back for more drama. 

Reviewed by: M. Bruner 
Email: deltareviewer@yahoo.com