Author Cheryl Robinson

Meeting Porter may be the best thing that ever happened to Winona Fairchild—if you don’t count the births of her two beautiful children. But as much as he wants to get married, Winona has good reason not to get close to anyone—no matter how right it may seem. Despite the harsh realities of life that keep them apart, Porter is willing to stand his ground. But when Winona’s long-held secret is revealed to her kids, someone will have to pay. Then Winona will learn how much the truth can hurt…and how much it can heal.

Cheryl Robinson’s latest novel, It’s Like That, is exactly what her readers asked for - the continuation of a great story. This sequel to If It Ain’t One Thing, brings back Porter and Winona. Their relationship is wrought with secrets, infidelity, betrayal and resentments. But in the true tradition of many African American families, the struggle is combined with love and compassion and forgiveness. I liked that in the first book.

Winona Fairchild is battling HIV, struggling with her children, her job as a car designer, and her fiancé Porter. Even though she has more on her plate than most women, she is strong in her refusal to roll over and lay down. Winona is a sassy, strong-spirited sister, a fighter, looking for answers. Winona is determined to live the best of what life is left and how she goes about is full of Robinson’s signature brand of drama.

Firefighter Porter is still chasing his musical dream and his love for the saxophone makes him question his fire safety career. His desire to fight fires was born out of watching his older brother die in a fire as a child. Porter was coming to terms with his brother’s death and estrangement from his mother. He was ready to make some changes in his life. Marrying Winona was only part of it.

The story continues to unfold and a new character, Dr. Bryce finds Winona attractive and his attentions threaten her pending nupitals to Porter. What draws Winona to him is his HIV positive status. It gives her a bond with him that she doesn’t expect.

Cheryl Robinson writes stories that entertain while giving the reader something to think about. Rumor has it that It’s Like That is book two of a trilogy. If so; I’d be happy to know what is going to happen next. It’s Like That earned four stars out of five for continuity and an interesting read. Get lost in this complicated love story.