Departures

By Adrienne Bellamy

Book Overview

Tired of her mother Paula's relentless search for men, money, and more of both, Amber finds new female role models in her Philadelphia neighborhood--including Sheila, who comes up with a new way of getting back at her late, no-good husband; Reba, a mother of six who finds love away from her husband;

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 145653095X
• ISBN13: 9781456530952
• Release Date: May 2002
• Publisher: Createspace Independent Publishing Platform
• Length: 438 Pages
• Weight: 1.28 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 6.0" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

As real as it gets

Departures, the debut novel by Adrienne Bellamy, can be summed up in two words, great book. Having been compared to the classic, The Women of Brewster Place, Departures is bound to make some noise in the literary world. Amber is one of those children who as the old folks like to say has `been here' before. Relying on her old soul to navigate her through life as the child of an unfit mother, Amber has some pretty interesting tales to tell. Paula, Amber's mother never wanted children and it definitely shows in the way she treats her three daughters. All she wants out of life is a good lay, fast times and warm male bodies to crawl up next to at night. Not having one maternal bone in her body along with the fact that her morality tank is sitting on "E", Paula is going to have to learn the hard way. Shelia has been putting up with her deadbeat husband for as far back as she can remember. Finally at her wit's end and tired of dealing with his foolishness she gives him an ultimatum. Not able to live up to his end of the deal costs him his life. Unable to put up with him anymore she gives it to him. Too bad he isn't alive to hear what all she has to say. Reba has been living her life for her six kids and her trifling husband. A trip out of town has opened her eyes to what she has been missing and she is ready to make a change. Certain that her happiness will be determined by her marital status, she is going to surprise a whole lot of people starting in her own house. Seldom is there a novel where the characters affect you like the ones you meet in Departures. Whether they are making you cry or putting a smile on your face you are certain to find a special place in your heart for them Angie

Departures

I was on an emotional rollercoaster... happy - sad - shocked -relieved. Love it & recommend it to all my "bookies" [friends]Deva Deb

With You Every Step of the Way

This book is excellent! It completely engrosses the reader, who quickly comes to have stake in every laugh, every tear, every feeling of excitement, and every other emotion that the characters experience. It will keep you on the edge of your seat wondering, 'What in the world could possibly happen next' - and you're sure to be surprised! Adrienne Bellamy's writing style pulls you into the midst of the lives of Amber Gray and those around her, and once your curiousity is piqued you won't be able to put Departures down.

Outstanding

I really enjoyed reading Departures. I loved the characters. Ms. Bellamy made them real. I got the departures on the 2003 cruise and when I return home and started reading the book I could not put it down. I loved Horace and his love for children. I loved Reba strength and coolness. Shelia who I also loved, I don't know if I would dig up my dead husband :-)), but she had to release the angry she had for him and this was her way. I can't wait until the next books. Thank you Ms. Bellamy for Departures.

DAYS GONE BY!

I couldn't read this book fast enough. Every character, every incident reminded me of days gone by in my life and I thoroughly enjoyed reliving those days. When I was finished reading Departures, I wanted more. I felt a void. I wondered how long I would have to wait for a sequel. I started re-reading Departures and savoring every minute of it. I strongly recommend that everyone read this book. You will most definitely find yourself in one of the characters.