Margaret Johnson-Hodge, This Time

Margaret Johnson-Hodge, This Time - Not too long ago Rick Timmons chose his now five-year-old daughter Kanisha rather than the woman he loves Dajah Moore after his beloved forced him to choose because she insisted "no more madness" following the nasty behavior of the mother Gina Alexander. Dajah left, but Rick is back and wants a second chance. Now twenty-three, Gina apparently has turned her life around with a job at a Jamaica, Queens, library and is making efforts to regain the friendship of a close pal, but she is also getting back with the pot. So, once again, her actions jeopardize their daughter and a second chance with Dajah, even if she agreed to one.

While Rick struggles with what is best for his daughter, Dajah meets Jeff Gingham, who wishes he was younger as he sees his eight years as being too much a gap. A couple of weeks later, Jeff's dog Kelly runs from him when he notices Dajah. The dog runs to greet her. Jeff follows. Jeff and Dajah start to see one another, but she has doubts following the disaster of her last relationship and he firmly believes she needs someone her age, but a matchmaking canine thinks otherwise.

As expected from Margaret Johnson-Hodge, THIS TIME is a terrific, urban relationship drama that brings to life Queens, New York, through the actions and reactions of an ensemble cast. The key to this fine tale is that the prime players and their particular angst seem real. Readers who appreciate a deep character study that looks closely at the desires, needs, and consternations of four individuals and to a lesser degree two others, go no further than Ms. Johnson-Hodge; she is one of the best.

Sutton Place, May 2005, $16.95

ISBN: 0975402609

Harriet Klausner