Reviews from Readers like You
| Hi Diane,
I met you at the author's conference at Woodson Library on October 10th and I purchased a copy of "Autumn Leaves." I just finished reading it and I absolutely loved it! Your writing is great--it kept me guessing (I thought Wayne was going to end up killing Mimi and Autumn at first), and some of the remarks the characters made kept me laughing.
It's been a long time since I've read something that I didn't want to put down, and I really enjoyed that :-)
I also want to thank you for talking to me about getting published and encouraging me to continue to write. I look forward to reading your other books.
Sincerely,
-Evette Collins
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Mrs. Diane Martin
The book, NEVER WHAT IT SEEMS, is a thriller. I cried, I laugh, I became very angry and upset, but I could not put the book down. I didn’t eat or do anything else while I read this book. I can say so much about the story, but that would only get me worked-up again. Their story became my story. I was able to see everything as if I was taking the journey with them. I just loved it…loved it. Okay, I’m taking this too serious…it was just a story, but I can’t stop thinking about it. Keep writing, girl.
Love you, cuz’,
Ms. Victoria Jones
Good Morning Diane,
Sistah, I could not put this book down, it was definitely a page turner!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Diane, you did an AWESOME, job with this book. I can not remember the last time I had a book that captured my attention like this one. I had been fumbling trying to read a book all summer and finished this one in a day and a half, I would have finished in one day if it wasn't for life.:) I think hearing your voice also made the reading more enjoyable. I can't wait for book "TWO". Keep up the good work.
-Linda
Dear Diane
I hope you remember me, but if you don't that's ok. I purchased your book on Aug. 1, at the Black Women's Expo. I did not begin to read the book until a few days ago. Needless to say, once I started reading I could not put it down. This was the best book I have read in a very very long time. The characters seemed so real. As I read, the faces of individuals from my past appeared in my mind. The situations that you expressed in your book were real life and I could easily identify with many of them either through personal experience or indirectly through the experience of someone I know.
You mentioned that there was going to be a sequel to "Never What it Seems". I will be looking for it. In the interim, I will read your other books. Thanks for sharing your gift.
-Linda Wright
Diane,
After reading "all of your books", as a new author you have shown me it's ok to be different. How our work should tailor us (the author) and not just our audience. As people stated on your site, you are truly an inspiration. I enjoyed all of your books and I look forward to reading more.
You are a gem!
-Madison Taylor (Author of Scattered Lies)
Diane,
My daughter gave me your books to read. At first, I was hesitant because I thought it was another "Street Novel Book." As stated to my daughter, I'm 52yrs old. I don't read those kinds of books. However, Pamela insisted on me reading your book. Well, I'm glad she did. I stayed up all night reading "Never What it seems". Reading that book brought back so many memories of my childhood. I laughed and cried. After I was done, I asked her did she have more of your books. She gave me Fallen Angel and Autumn Leaves. Once I was done with those, I woke my Pamela up and told her [that] I haven't enjoyed books like these in years. I know what she meant by you ‘raising the bar.’
Mrs. Martin you are not a voice of my generation, but for all generations. It was a pleasure to read something that didn't degrade us.
I wish you the best of luck in your journey,
-Ella Mae Williams
Hello Diane,
It was very nice meeting you at the University Park, IL library in the early spring. I was given the unique chance to receive an autograph copy of Autumn Leaves. Thank you very much! Not only are you are very humble, vibrant, and personable, but also, a very talented writer. Autumn Leaves is very Eco friendly. You don't waste a word, page, or a comma. This novel is a true page turner. I read this book in one day! I simply couldn't put it down. Each chapter was revealing yet succinct. A truly easy read that makes you think about [the] actions one takes and its affects on others. I will definitely be back for more of your work. I am very excited to see this book on the big screen.
Keep up the great writing,
-Brandy Hart
Dear Ms. Martin,
I received an autographed copy of your book Never What It Seems from my boyfriend Rick Berglund. I just wanted you to know how much I enjoyed this book! It usually takes me weeks, sometimes months, to finish a book. However once I started reading Never What It Seems, I had a hard time putting it down! I loved all the twists and suprises each page brought! I hope you continue writing and look forward to reading your other books. I find your writing style exciting, yet easily understood.
Thank you!
-Wendy DeGroot
I just finished reading [Never What it Seems]. Let me tell you, she hit a homerun with that story. It's about finding and losing love, child abuse, abandonment, overcoming obstacles and succeeding, and a couple of drop-your-jaw surprises that I won't divulge.
Hope everyone buys a copy.
- Edwina Putney
Making Choices and Keeping Secrets Can Be Deadly
In Autumn Leaves, author Diane Martin, introduced readers to a unique and interesting story of forbidden love, secrets, revenge, and choices. Claire thought she had everything she wanted – she was in love with the man of her dreams and she had a great best friend. Yet, there was still something missing. After being introduced to Autumn, a high school friend of her boyfriend, Claire began to experience desires that she never felt before. Claire began to make choices that affected her relationship with her boyfriend. She also began to keep secrets and tell lies that became deadly to them all.
Martin has written a very sensitive story. Readers will become involved in the lives of the characters as they made choices that affect everyone. Many of the topics discussed are considered taboo despite being considered mainstream by others. Martin discusses the consequences and options that character Claire had to face and the impact her choices had on her everyday life. I found the book to be very entertaining and l literally dropped my jaw when I got to the end. This book is a must read for anyone that likes drama mixed with some mystery.
- Priscilla C. Johnson
Hello Diane,
I just finished reading Autumn Leaves at 2:30 a.m. this morning. I could not put the book down until I finished it. Oh my God, I was so surprised at the out come at the end. You must do a sequel and tell us what happened to Wayne. Claire was a very interesting character that wasn’t sure who she was. Keep me posted when Falling Angel comes out. Be blessed and keep on inspiring me to take the time to write.
- Emma Johnson
Diane,
I started reading Autumn Leaves yesterday around 11 am while I was out taking [care] of business. Girl, I was so into the book that I was on Chapter 30 before I knew it. So, I said when I get home I have to finish up this book, because I want to know what the he** is happening to Claire. So, I began again around 9 pm and finished at 2 am in the morning. Yes, your book was a page turner. I was laughing out loud at the end when Claire told Mimi what was going on and how Mimi responded. I said that sounds just how a friend responds to a situation like that.
Omgosh.....your book was EXCELLENT! After talking to you at the library and you told me how you dream of the events and the book…you are truly gifted. Autumn Leaves is another well written book. I could relate to the situations presented in the book as well. Girl, you are so talented and all I can say is that I am happy I know you. It’s truly a pleasure to read the novels you write. So, you say there is talk about making "Never What it Seems," into a movie, "Autumn Leaves," should be a movie as well. I wish you tons of prosperity in all your future endeavors. - Created by author, Ms. Michelle A. Moorer - Novel entitled, Shh...Don't tell
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It [Autumn Leaves] kept my attention that's for sure. Very suspenseful ! This is what I would look for in a novel. Keep up the good work.
-Otilla Stokes
I purchased your book [Never What it Seems] and once I completed it…WOW! This was a great book and I couldn't put it down until I was finished. I passed the book on to my daughter-in-law and she thought the same thing. Keep up the good work. I'll be looking for more to come.
- Beverly Price
I'm reading Never What it Seems. It's a page turner. I found myself wanting to find out what happened next as I ended each chapter. I'm on chapter 48 (pretty good for a day an a half)...Where the girls former loves have now re-enter their lives. The story line is impeccable, well written, and I am suggesting this book to all my friends and family who loves to read. I'm going to read this book again.
- JoMonique Whiteside
Excellent & Bravo! The title [Autumn Leaves] made me pick it up. Meeting you made me read it. Finishing it made me glad for both.Your message was tremendous!!
- Floria Christine
You won't remember me but I met you at the [Black Women's Expo] on Sunday afternoon. My sister and I were together and she brought your book Never What it Seems. She let me read it first since I read faster then she (smile). Remember she was telling you how she would be sixty-nine on her birthday which is today. Anyway, I just wanted to let you know that I have just finished your book and enjoyed it very much. If your second [book] is as good (and I'm sure it will be) as this, I will be waiting for the third. Just wanted you to know you have a fan who was happy to meet the Author. May your success continue.
- Anita Williams
I have already started Never What It Seems and I am thoroughly enjoying it. Your characters are so believable, I can't wait to see what happens next with AJ and Dee. You are very talented and I am looking forward to reading Autumn Leaves.
- Yvonne Whaley
I finished your book Never What It Seems a few days ago. Wow! It was a page turner. AJ, as the kids [would] say, was no punk. It was an interesting story about two friends and how they managed to overcome some tough obstacles in their lives. So, I could relate very well to it. Just wanted to let you know I look forward to reading your next book, Autumn Leaves. Keep up the great work.
- Angela Powell
Thank you for being such an inspiration. I read the entire book yesterday. As you stated Autumn Leaves was a very “adult” book. I thought you had a powerful introduction; it pulled me in. I found the story line and character development to be interesting. I like your straight to the point, down to earth writing style. I found myself smiling at some of the phrases you used. I think you have a wonderful gift of storytelling and there are unlimited possibilities before you.
It was truly a pleasure meeting you and sharing time with you. I started reading your book and I must have read the first chapter 3 times. It is so easy to read and it flows so well. I guess you are wondering, why did I have to read this chapter 3 times? Well, because it was like reading a portion of my life..I couldn't get over seeing this before me. It is part of my past, but I just kept reflecting on it. It was kind of therapeutic. I also decided to let my daughter read it first to see how she reacts. Actually, I'm in the middle of a book and I can see I'm going to [really] enjoy your book girl!
We laugh often about where God has delivered us from.
Stay encouraged and be Blessed,
- Ms. Sheila
Just like Never What it Seems (Diane's first novel), Autumn Leaves had me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. The subject matter is shocking, to say the least, but I completely understand why the author included it. The story is about cause and effect...right and wrong. It is a story that makes you take inventory of yourself. The author put together a story so compelling that I couldn't stop reading it...I couldn't put it down. I enjoyed it...a lot. I can't wait for the next one.
-Tonya Flowers
I think this book [Never What it Seems] is phenomenal. It takes us into the lives of two young women that basically go through what all women experience growing up in this day and age from childhood to adulthood. It also points out not all men are deceiving, but are willing to take chances when it comes to true love. It was wonderfully written, and I look forward to the next novel written by Diane Martin.
-Marjorie Billinger
Greetings Diane,
I've just gotten back to Chicago and while I was away I completed Never What It Seems. All I can say is Superb, Excellent, and Outstanding! That book was one of the best books I've ever read and I'm encouraging everyone I know to get a copy. Let me tell you it had me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. This is definitely a book for everyone, so check it out!!! That being said, I have got to get a copy of Autumn Leaves if it is anything like Never What it Seems...I just can't wait!
-Ana Mar'e (Pink Diamond Inc.) www.pinkdiamondinc.com
Diane Martin’s vividly, entertaining tale of friendship between two women was a true testimony of trial and triumph. An anthem for every woman who has ever loved, lost, and regained the true meaning of an unedifying spirit of hope. For every page read, I was drawn deeper and deeper until I was left wanting more.
- Elise Burks
I just had to let you know that I read Never What It Seems over the weekend. It was really a fast read. I was very involved and hated to put it down for even a moment. The story allowed me to take a break from my reality.
- Danielle L. Broadwater
Never What it Seems is truly never what it seems. I found myself drawn into the story. I couldn't put it down! The chain of events continued to grab me. The author is very consistent about several things, but what warms you most is that the two main characters, Dee & AJ, are amazingly strong. I love and admire their courage.The author displays a relationship of real unconditional friendship between these ladies. Such a relationship is rarely seen or experienced today; the one that ultimately facilitates their success. This was an awesome start for a first novel. I so look forward to the next!
- LaKessa Murphy
I really enjoyed your first book, (Never What it Seems). When I started reading the book, I could not put it down. It captivated me to the point where I did not want to see or do anything, but find out what was happening on the next page and in the next chapter. Your book was truly a “Calgon Moment”, it took me away. It forced me to relax, smile, laugh, and take my mind off of the small stuff. Throughout the entire book there was never a dull moment. Your book took me back to when I was a young girl reading Judy Blum’s novels; sweet, innocent, and down to earth.
- Virnita Martin
Girl, let me tell you! I finished reading your book earlier today and it was excellent! Your book was a trip. Let me just say that the ending was not what I expected. I was out done! Your novel [Never What it Seems] was a well written and a very intriguing piece of work [written] by a vivid and creative mind! Congratulations and much success on all your endeavors to come!
- Michelle Moorer (Author of Shhh…Don’t Tell)