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Thug Politics
Despite his humble beginnings, Maurice Sebastian, aka Money Mo, has always had lofty aspirations. An up-and-coming promoter, Maurice has his sights set on his biggest promotion yet becoming mayor of Newark. With politics in his blood and the streets as his playground, Maurice has devised a plan to combine the two and have the best of both worlds, a gangsta s paradise. With Maurice running the city and his ruthless squad handling the streets, can he rise to the top? Or will he fall victim to THUG POLITICS?
275 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2008
32 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
August 11, 2012
Here's a tale that includes: Wish sandwiches, murder, and Nikki Turner all in one.
In Thug Politics, you will be submerged in a tale of deception and betrayal from a front row seat as author Dutch narrates behind an experienced pen. Follow Money Mo and his cohorts from the streets of Newark, New Jersey all the way to a seat in the Mayor's office.
Maurice Sebastian a.k.a. Money Mo, is clean cut and articulate, with not even a parking ticket on his record. He taxed the streets and criminal sets and controlled the game through his top street generals: Bruiser and Mel Kwon; not to mention he's engaged to the hottest female rapper in the country Queen Diva.
To start their reign of terror, Mel Kwon and Bruiser are on the streets politicking like diplomats; shaping their own destiny for themselves and Maurice. They round up the citizens of the city, getting them to vote by choice and force. While all of this is peculating, Queen Diva has a bitter and angry manager named Stacks on her back. He continuously stalks her, drowning her with phone calls and though she keeps changing her number, he somehow always gets it, and you will be surprised to find out how!
Maurice uses Queen Diva's celebrity status and popularity to give him the edge he would need to win the city's vote. He also blackmails a very influential Reverend to support him, making his chances to become Mayor greater.
Meanwhile, Mel Kwon pieces together his own plan so he and Bruiser could take advantage of all the pieces Maurice left behind. He starts scheming and plotting against the home team. In turn, Black Flam—a street dealer—is murdered, and this starts the tour of deception and assassinations. Everyone from secretaries to the kingpins of the drug trade are targeted.
With the worst possible timing, Queen Diva records a new single that has references to everything Maurice and company have done to make their plan a reality; and in an instant what they all worked so hard for is jeopardized. As a result, in a twisted chain of events, she is named in a drug conspiracy that threatens to take everyone down. A valuable lesson of greed, responsibility, carelessness, and loyalty is explored here. Ultimately, greed is the end to every man!
What did you like best about this book?
The tale is filled with great dialogue. Dutch also spreads the love with a cameo appearance by author Nikki Turner, weaving her into a small part in the story. Nikki Turner goes from author to guest character!
Author Dutch intertwines character development adequately through the dialogue; as a reader you know who Maurice is, what kind of person he is, and you feel the character come to life off the page. You experience the scene, tone and pace; you are placed right into the story.
I enjoyed the historical trip on how it all started: from the struggle of Nigel and Donna (Maurice's parents) to the bond that Bruiser, Mel Kwon, and Maurice would create.
As always, the author gives us those subliminal messages and history lessons that he loves. Though the author is incarcerated, he is very relevant and up to date with current events.
It contained an excellent and well thought out backstory.
What did you dislike about this book?
I feel the author got a bit lazy at the end, but I don't understand why? Some of the scenes were rushed and the dialogue got choppy and weak within the ending pages of the book.
The opening of the book seemed like an afterthought, as if the writer and/or editors were juggling around the idea for placement or extraction. This opening did not add or take away from the overall tale, but it makes me think that it could have been removed all together.
There was a bit too much slang within the narrative of the story; the author constantly referred to "his .40 Cal" instead of saying ".40 Caliber" in the narrative, which became very annoying.
The inside layout of the book is bulky and makes it a tougher read. I wish it had a neater inside appearance; the font was bigger than normal, almost like a young adult book. The book cover was decent, however, the words on the spine where upside down, reversed from the normal way text should be read on a book spine.
How can the author improve this book?
The entire book could use some tightening; another thorough edit would have done it justice.
In Thug Politics, you will be submerged in a tale of deception and betrayal from a front row seat as author Dutch narrates behind an experienced pen. Follow Money Mo and his cohorts from the streets of Newark, New Jersey all the way to a seat in the Mayor's office.
Maurice Sebastian a.k.a. Money Mo, is clean cut and articulate, with not even a parking ticket on his record. He taxed the streets and criminal sets and controlled the game through his top street generals: Bruiser and Mel Kwon; not to mention he's engaged to the hottest female rapper in the country Queen Diva.
To start their reign of terror, Mel Kwon and Bruiser are on the streets politicking like diplomats; shaping their own destiny for themselves and Maurice. They round up the citizens of the city, getting them to vote by choice and force. While all of this is peculating, Queen Diva has a bitter and angry manager named Stacks on her back. He continuously stalks her, drowning her with phone calls and though she keeps changing her number, he somehow always gets it, and you will be surprised to find out how!
Maurice uses Queen Diva's celebrity status and popularity to give him the edge he would need to win the city's vote. He also blackmails a very influential Reverend to support him, making his chances to become Mayor greater.
Meanwhile, Mel Kwon pieces together his own plan so he and Bruiser could take advantage of all the pieces Maurice left behind. He starts scheming and plotting against the home team. In turn, Black Flam—a street dealer—is murdered, and this starts the tour of deception and assassinations. Everyone from secretaries to the kingpins of the drug trade are targeted.
With the worst possible timing, Queen Diva records a new single that has references to everything Maurice and company have done to make their plan a reality; and in an instant what they all worked so hard for is jeopardized. As a result, in a twisted chain of events, she is named in a drug conspiracy that threatens to take everyone down. A valuable lesson of greed, responsibility, carelessness, and loyalty is explored here. Ultimately, greed is the end to every man!
What did you like best about this book?
The tale is filled with great dialogue. Dutch also spreads the love with a cameo appearance by author Nikki Turner, weaving her into a small part in the story. Nikki Turner goes from author to guest character!
Author Dutch intertwines character development adequately through the dialogue; as a reader you know who Maurice is, what kind of person he is, and you feel the character come to life off the page. You experience the scene, tone and pace; you are placed right into the story.
I enjoyed the historical trip on how it all started: from the struggle of Nigel and Donna (Maurice's parents) to the bond that Bruiser, Mel Kwon, and Maurice would create.
As always, the author gives us those subliminal messages and history lessons that he loves. Though the author is incarcerated, he is very relevant and up to date with current events.
It contained an excellent and well thought out backstory.
What did you dislike about this book?
I feel the author got a bit lazy at the end, but I don't understand why? Some of the scenes were rushed and the dialogue got choppy and weak within the ending pages of the book.
The opening of the book seemed like an afterthought, as if the writer and/or editors were juggling around the idea for placement or extraction. This opening did not add or take away from the overall tale, but it makes me think that it could have been removed all together.
There was a bit too much slang within the narrative of the story; the author constantly referred to "his .40 Cal" instead of saying ".40 Caliber" in the narrative, which became very annoying.
The inside layout of the book is bulky and makes it a tougher read. I wish it had a neater inside appearance; the font was bigger than normal, almost like a young adult book. The book cover was decent, however, the words on the spine where upside down, reversed from the normal way text should be read on a book spine.
How can the author improve this book?
The entire book could use some tightening; another thorough edit would have done it justice.
April 4, 2018
Thug Politics.....This book was out of the norm for me. Didn't think I would read this type of book but I would have to say I enjoyed it! I actually wouldn't mind finding another to read. The story line was cool and easy to follow. That old saying that goes "there is no honor among thieves" is very evident in this story. It's a shame when childhood homies grow up to eventually be cold hearten enemy's. But that is it in a nutshell with a whole lot of action in between the time. good story but I was hoping for a different ending. Good story, no spoilers here, go read it!
August 12, 2008
THUG POLITICS
"Good Things Come to Those Who Take It"
The promise of potential for a gangster's paradise. Maurice Sebastian was born in Bermuda, but raised via the way of the bricks also known as Newark, NJ. Maurice lost his father and his mother at a young age. After his parents' death, Maurice comes upon a new life in Newark. Maurice does not have the heart of the battle that they have in Newark, but he knows one thing and that is he wants to be a self made man, a man he knew his father would be proud of.
Bruiser is Maurice's cousin and their relationship will grow into a brotherhood that can't be broken, or can it? Mel Kwon is the hustler of the group. He was born into a family of hustlers . Keisha aka Queen Diva will eventually come face to face with Mr. Sebastian.
Maurice comes to grips that he wants to be the mayor of the bricks. He figures that running for mayor is no different from throwing a party. In the world of politics they have their parties too and they are called delegates, incumbents, etc. Maurice just wants to take over the streets of Newark as mayor. As far as Maurice is concerned, fear and respect will run the streets while his love ran the city. Maurice's goal is to revitalize a city that comes from a conservative policy. Newark is clamoring for change and Maurice wants to be the man that can bring it. Maurice isn't about war, he is about peace. In the end you will be asking yourself the following question, who really is more gangsta, the street nigguhs or the politicians? Is it all about the battle of exterior vs. interior?
The reality of the story is the following: we can no longer tell the difference from the police to the criminals. Maurice will create the game, determine the game, and end it when it's all said and done. Thug Politics written by Dutch was a great read. It had drama, comedy, and action. The setup for Thug Politics is different because he doesn't break the book up chapter by chapter. He walks you through every step of Maurice's life. He starts with the history where it all begins for Maurice and takes you on a journey in the book where the end justifies the means. Dutch will have you caught up in the street game of Thug Politics where nobody wins. On a rating from 1 to 5, I give Dutch a 5 because the book kept my attention. I learned last night after reading Thug Politics that Wu Tang said it best "Cash Rules Everything Around Me" even in the world of Thug Politics
"Good Things Come to Those Who Take It"
The promise of potential for a gangster's paradise. Maurice Sebastian was born in Bermuda, but raised via the way of the bricks also known as Newark, NJ. Maurice lost his father and his mother at a young age. After his parents' death, Maurice comes upon a new life in Newark. Maurice does not have the heart of the battle that they have in Newark, but he knows one thing and that is he wants to be a self made man, a man he knew his father would be proud of.
Bruiser is Maurice's cousin and their relationship will grow into a brotherhood that can't be broken, or can it? Mel Kwon is the hustler of the group. He was born into a family of hustlers . Keisha aka Queen Diva will eventually come face to face with Mr. Sebastian.
Maurice comes to grips that he wants to be the mayor of the bricks. He figures that running for mayor is no different from throwing a party. In the world of politics they have their parties too and they are called delegates, incumbents, etc. Maurice just wants to take over the streets of Newark as mayor. As far as Maurice is concerned, fear and respect will run the streets while his love ran the city. Maurice's goal is to revitalize a city that comes from a conservative policy. Newark is clamoring for change and Maurice wants to be the man that can bring it. Maurice isn't about war, he is about peace. In the end you will be asking yourself the following question, who really is more gangsta, the street nigguhs or the politicians? Is it all about the battle of exterior vs. interior?
The reality of the story is the following: we can no longer tell the difference from the police to the criminals. Maurice will create the game, determine the game, and end it when it's all said and done. Thug Politics written by Dutch was a great read. It had drama, comedy, and action. The setup for Thug Politics is different because he doesn't break the book up chapter by chapter. He walks you through every step of Maurice's life. He starts with the history where it all begins for Maurice and takes you on a journey in the book where the end justifies the means. Dutch will have you caught up in the street game of Thug Politics where nobody wins. On a rating from 1 to 5, I give Dutch a 5 because the book kept my attention. I learned last night after reading Thug Politics that Wu Tang said it best "Cash Rules Everything Around Me" even in the world of Thug Politics
December 29, 2008
The Art of War.
Dutch takes us to Bermuda for the history lesson of Maurice “Money Mo” Sebastian. His father was a strong black man who fought for the rights of blacks. His mother was originally from Camden, New Jersey. On one tragic day, Maurice witnesses the death of both of parents to a traitor for the cause. The traitor made it his business to make sure Maurice was safe and smuggled him into Newark, New Jersey to be with an Aunt. After moving with his aunt and cousin Bruiser the games begin. After getting the crew together Maurice’s side hustle was promoting parties where he gets the nick-name Money Mo, Bruiser is the muscle and Mel Kwon the nickel and dime drug dealer. Even though Mel Kwon is from a different hood by H.S. they are thick as thieves.
When Maurice grows up he will reflect back on some of the lesson his father taught him. Remembering quotes like”When a man is right, there is nothing to fear”,”this country was built on the on the backs of our people. Every Brick”, “Every man should control his own destiny and the black man is no different”. When he decides to run for Mayor of Newark, the media takes him as a joke and names him Thug mayor and the name sticks. Still keeping his connection; with his childhood friends brings up many accusations, see how he handles himself when the tough questions are ask. This is where the story gets real interesting. Maurice is a hustler, smooth operator, flashy, no nonsense type of guy and quite the ladies man.
Author Dutch takes us to the bricks where a book smart, hood hustler, friend to some of the most notorious hood gangster around can achieve the dream of being the head N*gger in charge. Dutch puts his pen game down and us a story that is told in a way had me question is this a true story? Dutch aka Kwame Teague keep up the great work. Tru publishing is putting out quality work that us readers can appreciate.
SiStar Tea
ARC Book Club Inc.
4.5 star rating
Dutch takes us to Bermuda for the history lesson of Maurice “Money Mo” Sebastian. His father was a strong black man who fought for the rights of blacks. His mother was originally from Camden, New Jersey. On one tragic day, Maurice witnesses the death of both of parents to a traitor for the cause. The traitor made it his business to make sure Maurice was safe and smuggled him into Newark, New Jersey to be with an Aunt. After moving with his aunt and cousin Bruiser the games begin. After getting the crew together Maurice’s side hustle was promoting parties where he gets the nick-name Money Mo, Bruiser is the muscle and Mel Kwon the nickel and dime drug dealer. Even though Mel Kwon is from a different hood by H.S. they are thick as thieves.
When Maurice grows up he will reflect back on some of the lesson his father taught him. Remembering quotes like”When a man is right, there is nothing to fear”,”this country was built on the on the backs of our people. Every Brick”, “Every man should control his own destiny and the black man is no different”. When he decides to run for Mayor of Newark, the media takes him as a joke and names him Thug mayor and the name sticks. Still keeping his connection; with his childhood friends brings up many accusations, see how he handles himself when the tough questions are ask. This is where the story gets real interesting. Maurice is a hustler, smooth operator, flashy, no nonsense type of guy and quite the ladies man.
Author Dutch takes us to the bricks where a book smart, hood hustler, friend to some of the most notorious hood gangster around can achieve the dream of being the head N*gger in charge. Dutch puts his pen game down and us a story that is told in a way had me question is this a true story? Dutch aka Kwame Teague keep up the great work. Tru publishing is putting out quality work that us readers can appreciate.
SiStar Tea
ARC Book Club Inc.
4.5 star rating
January 9, 2009
United In One Cause
Imagine a little boy from Bermuda traumatized by the murder of both his parents and in the same night being sent to live with his family in the states, having to learn that the same diplomacy wasn't exactly welcomed in the mean, gritty streets of Newark. Imagine that same little boy, always finding a way to be prosperous through education, determination and his street affiliations to help inspire and encourage his run for mayor. Newark, New Jersey being ran like the streets, who would've thought it? Instead of inciting riots, mayhem and ruckus, enemies uniting while keeping crime low, making it safe for everyone and raising morale. Nope, that can't be happening, can it?
Immigrant Maurice "Mo" Sebastian not only dreamed about it, but he made it happen. While every other hustler contemplates being the man, changing the game and winning against all odds, Mo, Mel Kwon and Bruiser did it. But what happens when everyone's shine isn't as recognizable? Greed breeds hate and envy. Will love, power and money prove to be the crucial ruin to this thug utopia?
`Thug Politics' written by Dutch is a rag to riches story told in Machiavellian proportions. Even when you know that it's wrong, you're still thrilled by the righteous deeds. Book number two by Tru Publishing is truly giving the people what they want! Looking forward to what's next.
4.5 stars
Imagine a little boy from Bermuda traumatized by the murder of both his parents and in the same night being sent to live with his family in the states, having to learn that the same diplomacy wasn't exactly welcomed in the mean, gritty streets of Newark. Imagine that same little boy, always finding a way to be prosperous through education, determination and his street affiliations to help inspire and encourage his run for mayor. Newark, New Jersey being ran like the streets, who would've thought it? Instead of inciting riots, mayhem and ruckus, enemies uniting while keeping crime low, making it safe for everyone and raising morale. Nope, that can't be happening, can it?
Immigrant Maurice "Mo" Sebastian not only dreamed about it, but he made it happen. While every other hustler contemplates being the man, changing the game and winning against all odds, Mo, Mel Kwon and Bruiser did it. But what happens when everyone's shine isn't as recognizable? Greed breeds hate and envy. Will love, power and money prove to be the crucial ruin to this thug utopia?
`Thug Politics' written by Dutch is a rag to riches story told in Machiavellian proportions. Even when you know that it's wrong, you're still thrilled by the righteous deeds. Book number two by Tru Publishing is truly giving the people what they want! Looking forward to what's next.
4.5 stars
August 16, 2008
He Got My Vote!
With so many books on repeat today, THUG POLITICS by Dutch might just be the thing for avid readers looking for a break from routine.
Maurice, like his father, is a natural born leader. Molded by his environment, Newark, New Jersey, and his homeland, Bermuda, Maurice sees the bigger picture - what could be. He concocts a plan to take over the city and make it a thug utopia with the help of his cousin and best friend - a combination that can't lose. Or can it?
Dutch is a real talent, a fine writer, with a gift of wordplay and a knack for memorable characters. Put THUG POLITICS on your must have reading list!
Reviewed by: Taye
With so many books on repeat today, THUG POLITICS by Dutch might just be the thing for avid readers looking for a break from routine.
Maurice, like his father, is a natural born leader. Molded by his environment, Newark, New Jersey, and his homeland, Bermuda, Maurice sees the bigger picture - what could be. He concocts a plan to take over the city and make it a thug utopia with the help of his cousin and best friend - a combination that can't lose. Or can it?
Dutch is a real talent, a fine writer, with a gift of wordplay and a knack for memorable characters. Put THUG POLITICS on your must have reading list!
Reviewed by: Taye
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