When Alretha Thomas begins the opening chapter of “Four Ladies Only,” Sabrina’s tone is soft, subdued, and engaging, but then all I can say is “Wow,” as the story turns to the next character and the next and the next. This rollercoaster ride of a novel is amazing. Piece by piece, bit by bit, Thomas draws us in with her magnet of masterful storytelling, her authentic characters, and a suspenseful page-turner that defies the reader to put her novel down. We laugh, we cry, we get angry, and sometimes stand back on our heels rereading a passage wondering if we read what we thought we just read. Sheridan, Victoria, Danielle, and Faye take us on a whirlwind ride through a significant part of their lives. The author displays them on a stage where they and circumstances are ever changing before our eyes; the reader is spellbound seeking to find the next layer, the twist that we know is coming, and the reveal that almost makes our heart stop in transit.

– Doris Dancy, Author of Jagged Edges

Here’s the set-up:

Sheridan Hawkins is a chain-smoking, former high school prom queen, trying to survive a marriage fraught with financial and emotional difficulties.

Faye “Dimples” Davis is the first lady of a megachurch who desperately wants to have a baby.

Victoria Williams is an elementary school teacher fighting for the love of her estranged husband and children.

Danielle Wiley is a powerhouse attorney grappling with her sexual identity.

These are the heroines of “Four Ladies Only.” Their friendship began two decades ago in middle school and continued through high school. However, in their senior year, a horrific event took place that destroyed their relationship and belief and trust in one another. Twenty years later, the death of their mutual friend, Sabrina Brown, motivates them to try to reconcile. However, in the process, they are forced to tackle the secrets, lies, deceit, and hypocrisy that underpin each of their lives. But they soon come to realize that their biggest hurdle will be facing and reliving the one night that led to twenty years of separation.

About The Author:

Alretha Thomas, author and playwright, is a graduate of the University of Southern California with a degree in Journalism. “Four Ladies Only” is her third indie book. In January 2014 she landed a four-book deal with Soul Mate Publishing for her Cass & Nick Series. “Married in the Nick of Nine, the first book in that series will be released in the summer of 2014. Alretha loves blogging, movies, theater, and spending time with her husband Roy. www.Alrethathomas.com.

(This is a sponsored post.)