Deserved To Be Loved is the coming of age story of Rodney, a black gay teen, and Mike, his on the down low lover. Set in the brutal backdrop of 90's era New Orleans it follows the star crossed lovers as they discover not only each other but the tenants of their own sexuality. They must face the realities of a world that might not fully accept them. The harshness of the homo thug image and New Orleans housing projects is vividly painted in this fast paced no holds barred thrill ride laced in a love story. It feels so gritty and so real that it is nearly ashamed to be called fiction. Deserved To Be Loved delivers, with authentic dialog, fresh realism and a colorful cast.
3.5 stars. Good characterization, solid read, but the grammatical errors took me out of the story at times. I am intrigued to see what Rodney Rousell writes next. #readathon
Captivating and genuine. The author was transparent and honest. It was a pure look into budding love and how although we are different we are all the same and all looking to be loved.
To live in your truth and share it with the world is commendable. I watched a YouTube video and saw the author promoting this book, and my curiosity brought me here. I’ll definitely enjoyed this look into his life.
I enjoyed watching the author tell his audacious prison stories on YouTube. He shared his homosexual experiences in a lighthearted, comic way. Although the stories were told with laughter; the message that he was and still is a pillar of strength was clear. So, I was compelled to read this book of his earlier years. I was captivated by his storytelling both on video and writing. It's an easy read that keeps you intrigued. The author did an excellent job of painting a clear picture of who the characters were. If you are deep-rooted in the urban lifestyle or have an open mind it’s a must-read!
talkin about being in the right place at the right time it's how I saw this story too young star-crossed lovers destined to collide with each other and that's just what they did. it is not often that we get to read about young love young black love story short and Mike got killed in Rodney never regain that love they both got opportunity to experience it and experience it deeply and some things were just not meant to be and some things are just not meant to happen it had to end the way it ended
This storyline was deep and heartfelt. It showed that all people are worthy of Love. All Deserved, to be Loved, regardless of who they are and how Family can and should rally around each other. This should be required reading for bullies and Homofoes. They need to know, we are all human and deserve the same privileges as they do!
I'm in tears now😭😭. Omg I deserved!! I fell in love with your live prison stories. This book was written for everyone.... no matter what happens in life I deserved to be happy. God sent me a WONDERFUL husband after I lost my first love. Thanks for the wisdom 😘.
This was personal to me as I really know Rodney and my Uncle Mike in this book. But it was so well written and I loved it. I want some more "Auntie Shakie" we thought you were going to write a book about my brother Lil Mike!
Amazing to read and fully captured my attention. I could feel the emotions throughout the story. It was heartbreaking but a beautiful story without a doubt.
This was a story that could have been someone’s life and as bitter sweet as it was I wished Shakey could have had another chance. Great short story to read.