AuthorsDen: Reviews at a Glance

Recent Reviews for Joyce Sterling Scarbrough

Different Roads (Book) - 1/14/2008 5:32:20 PM
Well now...what a way to begin a friendship!

Different Roads (Book) - 8/27/2007 9:25:34 AM
It's a well done opening. You grabbed my attention immediately and I had to keep on reading. Your style is easy to read and get into. There were just enough descriptions to set the scenes. Your characters are very distinct and I really liked Cole. Two thumbs up.

True Blue Forever (Book) - 1/29/2007 12:56:46 PM
WOW! This is wonderful I haven't read anything like this since . . . since . . . well, ever. It's inspiring and touching.

Different Roads (Book) - 12/26/2006 7:46:49 PM
Wonderful excerpt. I love the tension, the way the heroine knows her own mind and sticks up for her beliefs regardless of the consequences.

Different Roads (Book) - 9/25/2006 2:53:45 PM
Awsome! Awsome! Awsome! I can't wait until your next book!

True Blue Forever (Book) - 5/10/2004 10:00:00 AM
Joyce Scarbrough knows all the emotional buttons to push. Reading her fast-moving tale of four teens working their ways through those difficult years, I laughed and wept. I pulled for the protagonists and railed at the villains. And I was thoroughly entertained. It even has a happy ending. Of course, the characters are too good to be true. As a father of four who went through their teens at precisely the same time, I found myself comparing Jeanna and Mickey to Skip, Wendy, Jeff and Marty, all of whom are now productive and responsible adults in their 40’s. But back then their language was vile, they all experimented with drugs and took GED tests to get out of high school early, and protested for or against whatever the cause celebre of the day was. So True Blue Forever is fiction, which is precisely what the author claims it to be. Jeanna and Mickey are more virtuous than real life; Billy Joe funnier; Wade meaner, although through an interesting twist he undergoes a transformation before the story ends. Read True Blue Forever for pleasure. I would rate it suitable for anybody over the age of 12, considering the times we live in.

True Blue Forever (Book) - 2/8/2004 11:00:47 PM
Mrs. Scarbrough has a wonderful story-telling skill that is evident from the first page of this delightful little gem, True Blue Forever. The characters are three-dimensional, completely believable...and I know I will miss them once the book is complete. Mrs. Scarbrough has a wonderful grasp on the structure of dialogue between her characters...and one forgets, while reading...that he is, in fact, reading...one of the great true tests of a good writer...and the character development is as good as I've seen from any author...even the most well known in our pop culture. The many emotional and psychological layers explored in the lives of her characters and in the relationships they share add so much depth to this story...and render every relationship in this book full of life and color. Wade is reprehensible...we know that...but Wade has a history with Jeana...one that transcends a flippant tossing him off as a thug or a jerk...we care about Wade...even in his imperfection. And Mrs. Scarborough's natural ability to weave such a spectacular and multi-layered story is to blame. It's her fault. :) Great novel, Mrs. Scarbrough, and I imagine you will have much success with your writing. Tony Pearson "Wesley Harris and the Rotten Patterson Kids"

True Blue Forever (Book) - 10/10/2003 10:12:17 AM
Tired of bills, traffic, telemarketers, and--my biggest pet peeve--those dad-blasted blister packs that require The Jaws of Life for opening and always end up sticking me under a fingernail? Well, forget about it all for a few hours and read True Blue Forever. You'll find yourself in a world of first loves and first kisses, surrounded by blue-eyed hunks, cool muscle cars, moonlit nights on Gulf Coast beaches, and so much 70's music and culture it'll have you sporting a 'fro and searching for that Heatwave 8-track so you can listen to "Always and Forever" while you read. Whether you're in high school now or it's a distant memory, and regardless of whether you loved it or hated it, you'll love meeting Jeana, Mickey, Wade, and Billy Joe: four atypical teens who will each win your heart in their own way. They deal with plenty of teenage angst, just none of the banalities featured in so many books--like the dreaded zit on picture day and having two dates for the prom. These are teens who make mistakes and are subject to raging hormones like everyone else, but they're smart enough to look at the big picture and take responsibility for the choices they make. You'll laugh and cry with them, seethe and long to soothe them, and when you get to the end of the book, you'll want to go back and read it again so you can visit with them a little longer. True Blue Forever is more than just a novel: It's an introduction for readers to four new lifelong friends.

True Blue Forever (Book) - 9/30/2003 12:06:59 AM
True Blue Forever is the tale of Jeana and the three men who loved her. Billy Joe the fun loving prankster, Wade the man we each have probably loved for looking so perfect, and Mickey the one beautiful inside and out. A beautifully woven story that will capture your heart, mind, and soul and even have you laughing out loud! The plot is thick with true to life characters that I found myself cheering for. I laughed at times, cried at others, and ultimately cheered throughout the entire book, it will effect you that deeply! The characters are truly unforgettable and written with such intensity that you will feel like you’ve meet them and in fact they will feel like your very best friends. True Blue Forever is a must read for anyone who carries love in their heart. This novel is a winner from beginning to end and won’t let you down with its happy yet surprisingly original ending that will leave you with a warm feeling in your heart and a smile that will make you unable to put it down! Joyce Scarbrough is sure to go far with her endlessly romantic story of true love one that is True Blue Forever.

True Blue Forever (Book) - 8/28/2003 9:57:32 AM
True Blue Forever is an excellent read. The characters transport you back in time to your own High School days. The fast moving pace keeps you riveted as you turn each page. Your soul is touched by each one of the four High School characters leaving you rooting for each. The author makes the story of young love poignant and believable while conveying each characters nuance. Joyce Sterling Scarbrough is truly a gifted writer and I can’t wait to read her next novel. ME Taylor author of “May’s Rainbow”

True Blue Forever (Book) - 8/26/2003 5:20:42 PM
Emotionally charged nostalgia that touches the heart. With characters that come alive through their everyday prejudice, friendship, love and hate, "True Blue Forever" is a delightful read. The author does a professional job of bringing out the vanity and ego in the various characters making them completely believable. Definitely not your average Romance novel, puppy love is not just for children. As the title implies, love can be a lasting and beautiful thing.

True Blue Forever (Book) - 6/26/2003 10:17:14 AM
Ms. Scarbrough has written a book that will capture your heart as well as your interest. Characters are interesting, thoughtfully drawn and easy to like. Dialogue is extremely well written, the plot flows smoothly, editing is well done and there are no loose ends. The story line, intriguing at the very first and even more intriguing as it goes along makes the book hard to put down for either gender. Of special note are the well paced last chapters which are quite stunning and not at all what I expected. Sometimes, a coming of age book like this one is perceived by many as a book that follows a rather standard plot, but you’ll find this book to be considerably different. Ms. Scarbrough - at least it seems to me - knows of what she speaks. I am looking forward to her next book.

True Blue Forever (Book) - 6/18/2003 6:07:08 PM
The love that is between Jeana and Mickey just melts my heart. We women dream about that kind of dedication from our spouse. I cried so near the end and had to stop to let my eyes clear up before continuing. My husband waited patiently for me to finish the book before I cooked him dinner for Father's Day! It was neat to be able to picture the characters at each of the places in Mobile County. Thanks for bringing this close to home. There are many lessons in this book - I hope many teenagers see themselves in your writings. Congratulations on your first printed book! Good job!

True Blue Forever (Book) - 6/4/2003 2:38:34 AM
True Blue Forever juggles the personalities and lives of four unique individuals growing up together (and sometimes apart) in the 70's. As I read, I was taken on a journey back to my own childhood as I grew up again with Jeana's challenges and decisions. A fast, smooth read.

True Blue Forever (Book) - 5/25/2003 8:00:55 PM
From the prologue and the blurb, I was uncertain about the book being one I'd enjoy. However, I tried out the first chapter preview, and found it to be a very good read...will have to try and pick up a copy...

True Blue Forever (Book) - 5/19/2003 8:40:28 AM
As I read the first chapter, I was wisked back to those high school days of fun and excitement! I can't wait to read the entire book! Excellent work Joyce!

True Blue Forever (Book) - 5/15/2003 6:49:05 AM
I think chapter one is great! It is so vividly wirtten. As I read it I felt like I was back in the halls of Vigor and reliving Mrs. Gates and Mrs. Barnes English classes. Keep the good work up Joyce!

True Blue Forever (Book) - 5/12/2003 11:24:07 AM
I am so proud of Joyce..we grew up in this time period around each other and I always knew that she would reach her goals one day...BRAVO Joyce, BRAVO!!!!

True Blue Forever (Book) - 4/27/2003 8:38:24 PM
Superbly imagined...poetically written...it'll bring back those memories of school life indefinitely. Way to go Joyce, way to go! Tim Johnson Author of Twisted Oak: Eyes of Discernment

True Blue Forever (Book) - 4/18/2003 3:43:30 PM
Good storyline and dialogue. I loved it. Very well put together story and leaves the reader wanting more. Takes the reader back to the teen years with wonderful imagery.

True Blue Forever (Book) - 4/10/2003 4:21:43 PM
What a wonderful book, it made you laugh, cry. Once you start reading it you can't put it down. Great work Ms Scarbrough!!

True Blue Forever (Book) - 4/9/2003 7:23:45 PM
True Blue Forever is a powerful story of adolescent love that is compelling and heart-breaking at times. This novel is well-written and so believeable, you never want the story to end. If you enjoy five star novels that grab you from the beginning and fail to let go of you long after the book has ended, then True Blue Forever is a must read. Bravo, Joyce!

True Blue Forever (Book) - 4/8/2003 12:58:58 PM
Wow! This looks like an emotional, satisfying read that's bound to bring back memories... even for a man like me. Its definately on my list of books to buy. Doug

True Blue Forever (Book) - 4/2/2003 2:18:01 PM
The sweetness and innocence of the excerpt pulls you in but doesn't overpower. You can tell that things will get serious, but that somehow the sweetness will remain...Can't wait to read all of True Blue Forever!

True Blue Forever (Book) - 3/30/2003 8:54:01 AM
There is a tendency, when writing the poems of children in fiction, to write an adult poem and dumb it down. This is a poem by an 11-year-old, and certainly good enough for an honours programme. It is convincing, and that is what best fiction should be.

Hope Chest (Short Story) - 1/14/2009 8:15:14 PM
enjoyed the read

Blue Beginnings (Short Story) - 8/22/2008 9:01:04 AM
Joyce, what an entertaining story to read! I thoroughly enjoyed it and loved the dialogue. "Blue Beginnings" was a pleasant reminder of the perils of high school and the trauma of unrequited young love. Growing older does have its perks! Jane Kennedy Sutton Author of "The Ride" http://janekennedysutton.blogspot.com/ http://www.authorsden.com/janesutton

True Blue Tricks and Treats (Short Story) - 10/4/2007 4:14:01 PM
We should all look past the warts as Jeana does. Inspiring piece. Thank you! Barb

On The Way to Forever (Short Story) - 4/24/2007 5:59:30 PM

Different Roads-Chap. 2 (Short Story) - 6/25/2003 6:23:40 AM
I'm hooked! Joyce's writing technique is sweet and innocent yet Jaycee is so headstrong and sassy - what a gal - I couldn't help but cheer for her at the end of the chapter! Way to go - Joyce! *With Joy* Danielle

The Masked Grammarian (Article) - 6/1/2009 11:11:24 AM
Joyce, I always like your writing and especially your sense of humor. I love The Masked Grammarian and the good she is doing in the world. If a few heads have to roll, we need to keep in mind just how many heads there are and how few of them are being used for any worthwhile purpose. Joe Prentis

The Masked Grammarian (Article) - 6/1/2009 8:50:55 AM
Loved this! Perhaps I should request a visit from said Masked Grammarian. Or would that be maybe I should FEAR a visit from her? In either case, this little fantasy was a fun read. Well done, Joyce.

My Greatest Influence (Article) - 2/15/2008 3:51:40 PM
He left you with many happy memories Joyce. How fortunate we were to have the fathers we did...Bo

The Masked Grammarian (Article) - 1/15/2008 4:41:42 PM
You are my hero. I spent 32 years in a classroom doing this very work. And my son is now the Grammar Warrior in his insurance office. Woe to the adjuster who misspells "it's/its"--I've had it with bad gramamr and redundant expressions on the news too! Well said, Joyce. Eileen

My Greatest Influence (Article) - 3/16/2007 3:55:05 PM
My dad never raised me, but my grandfather was like your dad--thank God for grandfathers. Henry

Prospective pilot (Article) - 2/8/2005 8:00:52 PM
Oh, Joyce, that is a delightful little introduction to your children! I have five children between 11 and 20, four of them are gifted, so I can relate to the tales you are telling. :)

The Masked Grammarian (Article) - 8/15/2004 3:35:19 PM
enjoyed the read

The Masked Grammarian (Article) - 8/15/2004 3:21:46 PM
Joyce, An adorable and humorous write that drew me right in to the end! If I could rate you on this one you'd get a 10+ for the best promotional article I've read yet! I am going to sit back and take lessons from you! EXCELLENT

A Bowling Story (Article) - 4/11/2004 2:48:05 PM
The 110 could be an influential factor,Mom, that bears looking closer into. :-) As a bowler myself (candlepin, though) I enjoyed your story. Too many young uns' out there have never experienced the true joy of bowling and it's great that your son has a true appreciation for the game. On my women's team, I am the youngest, at 41 and the oldest is Ruth at 81 (that lady has some power behind her ball). Here's hoping you and your son continue to enjoy this wonderful sport until you can no longer pick up a ball. Debbie

A Bowling Story (Article) - 4/5/2004 10:41:34 AM
as one who loves to bowl, i really got a kick out of this story! thanks for sharing; enjoyed~ (((HUGS))) and much love, your friend in tx., karen lynn. :D

My Little Sister (Article) - 1/28/2004 10:03:21 AM
God has truly blessed you and your family. Deb

My Little Sister (Article) - 1/26/2004 11:15:43 AM
Beautiful and haertfelt tribute to Michaele'; you are indeed blessed to have her as a sister! She sounds like a very wonderful and compassionate person! (((HUGS))) and much love, your friend in Tx., Karen Lynn. :) (((HUGS))) to Michaele' too, from me in Texas! :)

Spoons, Holding Feet, and Moniscuity (Article) - 1/22/2004 6:41:52 AM
How do I review something that reminds me so much of myself and the relationship I have with my husband! We have been married almost 36 years now and we still love to sit next to each other. Touching has never went out of our relationship. I have to give this a ***** rating because it's beautiful and because you aren't afraid to tell the world about it! Keep up the wonderful work. Sherry

If You Should Fall (Poetry) - 6/29/2009 9:31:25 AM
My sentiments exactly! Very nice lyrical flow to this poem. Loved it! Anna

If You Should Fall (Poetry) - 6/27/2009 5:13:15 AM
Great emotion. And how very true. Thank you for this one, too. Pee Wee

The Big Lie (Poetry) - 6/27/2009 5:11:38 AM
Very nice. Can't wait to reaad the book, True Blue Forever. You're poems are coaxing me to go back to my old ones and to write some new ones. Pee Wee

Someday (Poetry) - 6/27/2009 5:08:18 AM
More shivers. And some tears. I loved this. It's full of emotion. Pee Wee

I Remember You (Poetry) - 6/27/2009 5:05:12 AM
Joyce, this beautiful poem gave me shivers. I have a childhood friend like this so it hit home. Very beautifully said. Pee Wee

Baby Girls (Poetry) - 6/1/2009 1:53:04 PM
Amen. Very well done Joyce. I love lyrical poetry, and yours is wonderful. Anna

Someday (Poetry) - 6/1/2009 1:52:22 PM
Beautiful lyrical flow to this poem. I really enjoyed it. Anna

If You Should Fall (Poetry) - 11/15/2008 5:01:26 PM
Dear Joyce, You have "God Gifted" talent! Amem!

I Remember You (Poetry) - 11/15/2008 4:58:57 PM
A poem with a heartfilled message. Jesus is with us all the way. Amen!

Baby Girls (Poetry) - 9/27/2008 10:30:21 AM
Hi Joyce,I read your poem,"Baby Girls". I found it delightful. My wife and I only had boys. I do and did love them but as cute as they were,I always regretted not fathering a daughter also. Thank goodnees I now have two grand-daughters. Great imagery. Iespecially loved the line,"powder-scented hugs". Well done. Please feel free to visit my site here in the "Den"

Someday (Poetry) - 7/8/2008 10:16:00 AM
A yearning of Love once again! BEAUTIFULLY said and expressively felt Joyce! Your writing style is a stunning beauty! I enjoyed reading the depths of your heart, Love has so much to offer it! I still know these feelings gratefully and appreciately, you just reminded me once again! Thank YOU Lady J! WRITE ON! Warm hugs and Blessings, Warrior Purple Passion Lady Sheexooo STay Positive!

If You Should Fall (Poetry) - 5/26/2008 8:30:12 PM
Wow, glad I got to read this. Crying over what to do be happy with moving to smaller place, or stay here and be happy too. I am definitely moving to a smaller place, but cannot seem to see me leaving this place either. Too many memories of hubby here. I guess things will work out. I cannot fall as you say Get up if you shall fall. Comforting piece of writing especially tonight.

Someday (Poetry) - 5/26/2008 8:27:04 PM
Written so well and securely put together and sounds as if you have faith, hope, charity, love all abounding within you. Such a nice person you must be so forgiving too. Enjoyable ENJOYABLE

Someday (Poetry) - 4/21/2008 3:38:03 PM
Joyce, A well written piece of love, desire, and hope...wishing you well... Sam

Someday (Poetry) - 3/31/2008 2:39:52 AM
A lovely write expressing lots of hope for "Someday".

I Remember You (Poetry) - 2/2/2008 3:12:51 PM
OMG, I wrote of Jesus/ and Of Mary today as well! This brought tears nonstop to me your lines so poignant and true I felt the love return actually it was only hidden all along! My dear I'm glad I gravitated to your corner of this den! I will be back again! Amen! To these wonderful blessings! Warmed in the Spirit, Warrior Purple Lady Sweet Sheooxoo STay Positive!

Baby Girls (Poetry) - 2/2/2008 3:02:16 PM
This poem is truly amazing! Simple *not words like I make some and so beautifully said and felt! The Innocense of a child! Heaven scent for us to love Warmest Blessings and Hugs, Warrior Purple Lady Sweet Sheoooxoo' STay Positive! I started Tracking/Following YOUR Heart and Soul, I can tell you have more... and CONGRATULATIONS to mommy and daddy/etc. Over the horizon she will come bringing tidings for everyone!

On the Wings of Anthony (Poetry) - 2/2/2008 2:58:38 PM
Ahhhhhh, the exquisite expressions I can feel deeply! Write On! Warmest Blessings, LOVE, Inner Light and Hugs, Warrior Purple Lady Sweet Sheoxooo STay Positive! P.s. Joyce - Love your easy flowwww and hearts style!

Baby Girls (Poetry) - 1/7/2008 7:35:02 AM
I loved this so much. So poignant and personal. I think I said awww after every line! Bravo! CJ x

I Remember You (Poetry) - 11/7/2007 6:16:41 PM
I love it! What a great tribute to all who have wandered away only to return to our first love...Jesus!

Baby Girls (Poetry) - 11/5/2007 11:21:45 PM
Such a loving write! Babies are just wonderful and will change life forever for the better. One of the greatest joys..... Be safe, Karen

Baby Girls (Poetry) - 11/5/2007 1:57:07 PM
Sweet write! Very well penned; brava! :)

Baby Girls (Poetry) - 11/5/2007 12:42:37 PM
I just spent the afternoon with my 2 week grand baby girl,, and you described them to a T , a bit of heaven no doubt. Christine

I Remember You (Poetry) - 5/15/2007 3:05:01 AM
A beautiful and very touching write my friend, a wonderful homecoming I am sure was felt in Heaven as you made your way back! Very inspiring! Enjoyed! Blessings, Joyce Bowling

I Remember You (Poetry) - 5/14/2007 11:39:28 PM
A wonderful, spiritual write. Leaving, going full circle, only to return once more. Be safe, Karen