Dominique ‘Nikki’ Mills learned at a young age that getting in her own way might be her biggest problem. True, growing up Black has its challenges, but her insatiable curiosity, sharp mind and quick wit seem to do her more harm than good. Affluence and intelligence are not enough to keep Nikki from getting herself into serious trouble, despite the comfortable life her parents provided. “I was turning into the person that I despised so much. All the things I thought I would never do, I was doing.” These detestable things include nurturing abusive relationships, self-indulgent infidelity, persistent insecurity and crippling dependence. Even while faith is her constant companion, Nikki endures child abuse, domestic abuse, abuse from an unjust system, and much more. But since this is only book one in The Bite series, Nikki may not have hit rock bottom just yet!
A fiction story that could pass for an autobiography in modern America, Justice? Or…Just Me? is a spirited story about a young woman struggling to find freedom. The trials and struggles couldn’t have been told with a more realistic voice. I honestly thought I was reading a wry memoir until Nikki visited a sadistic orthodontist named Dr. Molarson. As her compelling story unfolds, Nikki works through a lot of issues, including heavy baggage that is unpacked with flair. It might cause readers to call to mind difficult moments from the past they themselves have kept buried.
The narration has a fast, frenetic pace that treats readers to a demanding yet rewarding experience! Nikki is a keen observer of people and a decent judge of character, so it is frustrating to watch her make the same mistakes over and over again like a broken record. Readers will no doubt be able to relate to her weaknesses, though, making for a dramatic story with a sudden drop at the end. Lorinda Hawkins Smith’s heart and passion are on display in a book that shines a light on a broken justice system, Justice? Or…Just Me?
