Mothers Vol. 1

by Ben Burgess Jr.

In 1995, tragedy struck when Maurice Wilson returned home from the grocery store and was killed by a stray bullet, leaving his wife, Juanita, a widowed single mother of two. Having no life insurance and barely any savings, Juanita is forced to sell what few valuable items she has to give her husband a decent burial. With her husband no longer around as the primary breadwinner and without his salary, Juanita struggled to financially keep her and her children's heads above water, but she managed to survive.
Tragically, two years following the death of her husband, her youngest child is diagnosed with cancer, leaving Juanita deeply in debt due to copayments for treatments, surgeries, prescriptions, and transportation to and from her job and doctors' visits. Overworked and underpaid, Juanita works a job she hates at the prestigious law firm of Wayne, Rothstein, and Lincoln to provide for her children. When her oldest child, Jalen, begins to feel neglected because his mother cannot afford to buy him the things he wants, constantly works overtime, and is always taking care of his younger brother, he is lured by the streets and a local drug dealer named Drastic. Will Jerami, Juanita's youngest son, survive cancer? Can Juanita endure being drowned in debt and working a stressful job? Will her eldest son, Jalen, continue to be drawn to and consumed by the streets? Mothers, Vol. 1, is the riveting prologue to the award-winning novel, Defining Black and White, about a mother's bravery and fortitude to do whatever is necessary for her children.

499 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 11, 2023

About the author

Ben Burgess Jr is the author of the award-winning novels "Monster," "Wounded," "Love and Happiness," " A Father's Sacrifice: Daddy's Girl," and the new novel "Defining Moments: Black and White." He is an active performer of spoken word poetry. Ben Burgess Jr uses his love of writing to inspire and influence youths to strive for what they believe in and never give up on their dreams. His novels "Monster" and "Wounded" are used in schools on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. Ben Burgess has a BA degree in Business Management and an MA degree in Educational Leadership. He is the proud father of his daughters Jaelynn, Jaclyn, and Jocelyn, and he is active in improving urban neighborhoods and communities. Ben Burgess's dream is to have his novels adapted into major motion pictures.

Website: https://amzn.to/3ZQi8je
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BenBurgessJr/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ben_Burgess_Jr

Reviews

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some stories come together like a powerful symphony of words, the author being both the creator and conductor. Welcome to the world of MOTHERS Volume One and become steeped in the intensity of the tale it tells.

Ben Burgess Jr. has created a raw and powerful story of life, the good, the bad and the seemingly insurmountable. He then unveils the strength of love, determination and the true grit of a modern day warrior-woman as she is repeatedly slammed down by life. She is a Mother, a wife widowed far too brutally and time after time she gets back up for her children.

Feel the love, the loneliness, the joys, the fears and the effort it takes to get through one more day when urban life seems to be stacked against those bound to the asphalt jungle they exist in.

If you’re looking for something to become immersed in, to ground you in another reality, to finally understand the definition of the word, “Hero,” a book that will leave you in awe in the most haunting way, this is it.

This author writes from the depths of his soul with every book he has written. And. It. Shows.

[Orsayor · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Mothers, Vol. 1, Author Ben Burgess Jr. presents a heart-wrenching story that explores the depths of a mother's love, her unwavering determination, and her extraordinary sacrifices for her children. Set against the backdrop of tragedy and adversity, this novel takes readers on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, leaving an indelible mark on their hearts and minds.

Through vivid storytelling, Author Ben Burgess Jr. takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster, making them question the lengths they would go to protect their loved ones. The well-developed characters feel authentic and relatable, their struggles and triumphs intertwining to create a compelling narrative. Each chapter unfolds suspensefully, keeping readers engrossed and eager to discover the outcome of Juanita's relentless fight against adversity.

Mothers, Vol. 1 is an emotionally charged and thought-provoking novel that explores the power of a mother's love in the face of adversity. Author Ben Burgess Jr.'s poignant storytelling and vivid character development create an unforgettable reading experience. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a riveting tale of love, loss, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

[_sassy_39 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mothers Vol. 1 by Ben Burgess Jr. is the story of a single mother who struggled to take care of her two boys after her husband was murdered. Juanita is the sole breadwinner for her family. Her husband's parents are no more and there is not much of a family who could help her with her husband's funeral or other expenditures.

Juanita works at a prestigious law firm Wayne, Rothstein and Lincoln where her boss doesn't give a shit about cooperating with her in times of need. Two years after the death of her husband, Juanita's youngest son Jerami was diagnosed with cancer and his oldest son Jalen was drawn to the streets. Will Juanita be able to protect both of her children?

This is a captivating story that kept me hooked till the last page. The story kept me on the edge of my seat and I was constantly wondering what would happen next. The title of the book is suitable and the story is well paced. Go ahead with this book without any second thoughts.

• 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 4.5/5

[J. Kahele · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deep

“Bullets ain’t got no names on them.” From that line on I was immersed in this novel.
It was heart wrenching watching Juanita struggle with the death of her husband, her son going through cancer treatment and doing her best to pay the bills.
Ben Burgess is an amazing author, he managed not only to grab every emotion I had, but to write a book that is so real.
This novel shows the depths of friendships, the heartache of loss and the struggles of a single mom trying to make her children and herself stable and happy.

[J.P. Ozuna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Burgess does it again!

Mother is an amazing page turner, emotional, intense, captivating and thought provoking. Juanita is a relatable character and all characters are well developed. An impressive novel that tugs all heart strings leaving you wanting more. Burgess showcases the complexities of human nature, the influence of enviornment, bonds of friendship. Look forward to what comes next! Highly recommend this well written novel!

[bookhaven__ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ben Burgess Jr.'s book "Mothers Vol 1" is a gripping read. It is common for innocent people to be caught in crossfire and hit by stray bullets. Juanita has never thought that this would happen with her husband Maurice. Maurice was killed in a crossfire. He didn't have life insurance and Juanita was left alone to take care and provide for her two sons: Jalen and Jerami.

Being the only breadwinner forced Juanita to quickly learn how to budget better for groceries and other bills. When her younger son Jerami was diagnosed with cancer, she tried taking help from her sister so her sister could keep an eye on her elder son Jalen. However, Juanita's sister is not a dependable person. She left all the household work for Juanita and didn't look after Jalen.

Those who are fans of urban fiction should get their hands on this book. The writing style of the author is amazing and the characters are written well. Being a single mother or father isn't easy and one should at least be prepared financially for any future tragedies. Juanita's story will keep the readers invested till the last page. Great work by the author in this book.

[Monika Singla · Rating 5 out of 5]

The main character of the story is Juanita, a mother of two boys: Jalen and Jerami. Juanita sent her husband to the store to buy two boxes of pasta for dinner. While he was on his way, he was murdered in a crossfire. Juanita blamed herself but her nosy neighbor Tracy supported her.

With her husband gone, it is difficult for Juanita to take care of her kids. She needs to work hard to maintain her position at a law firm she works at. When Jerami developed cancer and Jalen was getting attracted to the streets, her life became a nightmare. Juanita wishes for her elder son Jalen to be understanding that his younger brother is fighting for his life and needs more time and energy from his mother.

What will happen with Jalen and Jerami? Find out yourself by reading this book. The narration is smooth and strong. I was able to follow this story easily. Since I love urban fiction, I am curious to read more books by the author in the near future. If you enjoy reading stories involving drama, drugs, family struggles, etc then get your hands on this one.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mothers centers around Juanita and her family. We see her struggling to balance work, family and friends after tragedy strikes the Wilson family. Their way of life is forever changed. This is also a coming of age story of sorts but it's packed with so much more. Her older son Jalen is trying to fit in and find his way while her younger son Jerami has to be tough to win the battle he's up against. I went through so many emotions; I laughed, cried, and screamed. As a mother I related to a lot of the ups and downs the Mothers in this novel experienced. Bravo to the author. I will definitely read more of his work.
EyeCU Reading Approved and Recommended

[QUEENIE CLEM · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mothers, Vol. 1 is a powerful and emotional story that delves into the life of Juanita, a widowed single mother who faces challenges and highlights her incredible bravery and fortitude in doing whatever is necessary for her children.

The narrative opens with tragedy striking the Wilson family in 1995 when Juanita's husband and the family's primary breadwinner, is killed by a stray bullet. Left with no life insurance and minimal savings, Juanita is forced to sell their valuable possessions to provide her husband with a proper burial. With the sudden loss of her husband's salary, she finds herself struggling financially to support herself and her children.

The struggles continue when Juanita's youngest child is diagnosed with cancer two years later, plunging her into a deep financial crisis. Copayments for treatments, surgeries, prescriptions, and transportation to and from medical appointments accumulate, leaving her deeply in debt. Juanita works tirelessly at her job in the prestigious law firm despite despising it, to make ends meet for her family.

The author. portrays Juanita as a resilient and determined mother who sacrifices her own well-being to ensure her children's survival. The author expertly conveys the weight of Juanita's responsibilities, her challenges as a single mother, and the overwhelming burden of debt. The readers are immersed in the emotional turmoil Juanita experiences, torn between her duty to her children and her personal struggles.

The character development in the story is poignant and realistic. Juanita's eldest son, Jalen, feeling neglected due to his mother's constant work and financial constraints, becomes susceptible to the allure of the streets and falls under the influence of a local drug dealer named Drastic. The complex dynamics between Jalen, Juanita, and Drastic add layers of tension and highlight the consequences of a lack of resources and support.

The author's writing style is raw and evocative, capturing the challenges faced by Juanita and her family. The author confronts issues such as poverty, loss, and the impact of systemic inequalities with honesty and sensitivity. The book serves as a thought-provoking exploration of the realities many single mothers face, particularly those from marginalized communities.

The author illuminates the strength and resilience of a mother's love in the face of adversity, providing readers with a captivating narrative that sheds light on the struggles and triumphs of single mothers.

I recommend this book club so the readers can dissect the storyline. I give this book 4 stars.

[Enjoli Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartfelt

I couldn't put this book down. It definitely kept me interested. Real life, real shit. Great job, Ben Burgess Jr.

[Linda Strickland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Old school writing!

[Joy McGuire · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Real Reality Check!!!

This Is The First Time Reading Anything From Author, But It Won't Be The Last Time!!! Kiddos To You And Your Masterpiece ***GREAT READ*** EVERY African American Need To READ This Book For Sure, It Had Some Real Problems/Situations That's Our Living As African Americans Can Show How Dumb And Smart We Can Be At The Same Time!!!

[Dawn Piper · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Struggle

This was an astounding read! Showing what its like to be poor and struggling to do better for ourselves and each other. When the odds are against you and you only have a small circle to lean on you suck it up and endure. This story is so true in life you won't put it down until the end.

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book about motherhood and sisterhood. I loved the relationship Juanita, Tracy and Debbie had. I highly recommend this book!

[TaniaRina · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘Some days are etched on your soul forever’
Soooo many of the events in this hit really close, too close, to home. With all due respect to people struggling in the projects, family issues exist at every socio-economic level. I grew up white, with two parents, in an upper-middle class neighborhood, yet was exposed to their friends’ and neighbors’ adultery, alcoholism, child abuse & neglect, domestic violence (including sexual assault), drug dealing, spousal abandonment, STDs, suicide attempts, etc. I know parents who did the “Tough Love” and “Scared Straight” thang and one couple ended up emancipating their teenage son. Things are tough all over and this stuff leave scars on kids…
This book may be fiction, but its reality is all too true for way too many people. Locating this in the projects does call attention to the additional dangers in such a hostile environment.


Back to the book:
Raising teens as a couple is difficult enough, but single parents get spread so thin when trying to make ends meet and be there for both/all their kids. And when one of the kids has special needs, whether medical or psychological, resentment can build up right quick. Add widowhood (from street violence, no less) on top of that and my heart bleeds for Juanita. Plus, she has next to no family who can support her.

To add to that, in the U.S. (and perhaps other places), medical insurance is tied to the current employer. Not only does having a child with a pre-existing condition prohibit Juanita from seeking a higher-paying job to cover out-of-pocket expenses, she has a toxic boss and a conniving co-worker that make life horrendous for her.


On the bright side:
Yes, there are many positive aspects, but I’m taking care not to write spoilers! I added a personal note to the first two examples as a way to perhaps encourage others that there are things we ourselves can to to make the world a better place.
*There are adults who try to give the boys advice to stay away from the street punks. I don’t want to give away their stories, but it’s crucial that we adults pass along our “lessons learned” to our youth in the hopes that some thing gets through to some body.
Personal note:
My younger brother had a great support system throughout his childhood and adolescence, too many organizations and people for me to remember all of them. But I’m compelled to give a shout out of gratitude to his counsellor (Steve) and his psychiatrist (Dr. Sue S) who also took time to check in with me on occasion.
*There are people in our lives who are willing to support us in our struggles. Even while Juanita has her hands full with her own serious problems, she takes the time to be there for others as they are there for her.
Personal note:
My mother ran an in-home day care with many single mothers. Many an overnight stay; more than a few holidays when a couple of the kids joined us to visit out-of-town family (my cousins’ grandparents even bought them a small gift). When my brother was in a juvenile psychiatric ward, we hosted a young girl over a few weekends so that her mother could work extra hours to cover what the medical insurance did not (the father left after her brain was spilt by a playground pole).
*We can be the change. Our environment does not have to dictate the choices we make. Juanita was married, had a degree, and worked full-time. Her friend Tracy also had been married and was employed. Some characters saw the consequences of the choices others made; they decided that path was not for them and made choices that would ensure they did not end up in those situations.


Made me cry:
‘You can’t miss a stranger you never knew.’


How does one end a review for a book like this without sounding trite? Without getting all self-righteous about finding compassion for our fellow? Without being insensitive to those whose plight was much much much worse than mine? Without be bossy about fixing social ills?
How does one end a review for a book like this, for such an amazingly touching tale of reality? I have no words. Nay, the words just get in the way…

Simply, thank you for sharing.

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Mothers Vol. 1, Ben Burgess Jr. masterfully weaves a poignant, multi-layered urban narrative that delves deep into the heart-wrenching struggles of a single mother, Juanita, raising two boys in a crime-infested neighborhood. Tragedy strikes when Juanita's son is diagnosed with cancer just two years after the devastating loss of her spouse to a stray bullet. As she grapples with financial woes and the constant worry about her older son's brushes with the law, Juanita's job as a senior executive assistant and administrative manager at the prestigious New York law firm, Wayne, Rothstein, and Lincoln, hangs in the balance.

Enthralling and thought-provoking, Mothers Vol. 1 captivates readers with its intricate plot twists, memorable characters, and a potent exploration of the challenges faced by resilient, independent single mothers in today's world. The workplace antagonist who schemes to oust Juanita in favor of his illicit lover adds a layer of tension and frustration to the story.

Though the novel features some violent episodes and explicit intimate scenes, making it most suitable for mature readers, its emotional core shines through. The narrative switches between the perspectives of Juanita and her son, offering a comprehensive view of their internal struggles. While Jalen spirals into a life of crime, resentful of his mother's perceived inadequacies, Juanita strives to provide for her children and maintain a semblance of normalcy amidst chaos. The engaging storyline is further enriched by powerful lessons on empathy, bridging racial divides, and embracing tolerance.

This compelling novel is sure to resonate with fans of urban literature and stories that celebrate the fortitude of single mothers. Upon turning the final page, readers will not only gain a newfound admiration for the heroic efforts of single mothers but also develop a deeper understanding of the hardships faced by children raised in crime-ridden communities. Mothers Vol. 1 is an unputdownable, eye-opening literary gem that leaves a lasting impression.

[Paige Moulton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mothers Vol. 1 by Ben Burgess Jr. is a deeply emotional and socially grounded narrative that explores the weight of grief, financial instability, illness, and maternal resilience. Set in 1995, the novel builds a layered and realistic portrayal of a family pushed into survival mode by a sequence of life altering events.

The story is most effective in its depiction of cumulative hardship. Rather than relying on a single dramatic conflict, the narrative escalates through interconnected struggles, beginning with the sudden loss of a husband and evolving into severe financial strain and a child’s cancer diagnosis. This structure reinforces the theme of endurance under relentless pressure.

Juanita stands at the emotional center of the novel. Her character is defined by sacrifice, responsibility, and exhaustion, yet also by determination and persistence. The portrayal of her struggle working long hours in an unsatisfying job while managing medical debt and family needs creates a strong sense of realism and emotional depth.

Jalen’s storyline adds an important secondary dimension. His emotional neglect and gradual attraction to street life provide a parallel commentary on how instability at home can shape identity and decision making. This subplot expands the narrative beyond individual struggle into broader social consequence.

Overall, Mothers Vol. 1 is a character driven work that emphasizes emotional truth, family strain, and systemic hardship. It will resonate strongly with readers who value realistic fiction centered on motherhood, survival, and the consequences of economic and emotional pressure.

[Erika Reynolds · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was excited to read this based on the synopsis, but it fell short for me. The biggest issue I have is the writing is very juvenile—all telling, no showing, simplistic sentences. The plot is also way too long for the amount of action present in the story. There are times when the story is engaging and page-turning, but there were large chunks of the books I struggled to get through simply because nothing was happening. I was invested in Jalen’s storyline because this is where most of the occurs, and his chapters were overall more interesting. I empathized with Juanita’s struggles, but she’s not a likeable character, and her chapters are where the book suffers from telling vs. showing the most. Juanita and Jalen’s chapters felt like two completely different stories most of the time. Thanks to NetGalley and Ben Burgess Jr. for this free ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[DJano Gaines · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good Read

This was a good book and had a lot of emotions and true life experiences. However, I thought it was kind of long. But I do understand that each character had their own opposition in life.