What a phenomenal memoir! Sheila Johnson’s story of personal and professional triumph is well worth the read.

Probably closer to a 4.5 stars. I genuinely enjoyed Sheila Johnson's story and her perseverance through a difficult childhood, marriage, and racism in her community. At times her memoir dwelled too much on details that felt unnecessary in a way that almost felt promotional of her businesses.

Shelia Johnson, the First Black Woman Billionaire, Co-Founder of BET, CEO of Salamander Hotels and Resorts, and the Ex-wife of Bob Johnson definitely did this book justice. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.

QUOTE THAT STUCK OUT:
“It was like I had been running the world’s longest marathon but just when my legs were about to give out it was like I could finally see the finish line”.

OVERUSED WORD THROUGHOUT THE BOOK:
“Gaslight” was so overused in this book. I was sick of reading it over and over again. I’m sure there’s another word to describe how a narcissistic husband treats you. It could just be me since I hate that word, but sheesh it’s used 99 times when she describes situations with her ex-husband.

OVERALL THOUGHTS:
This book was a great read. Her life story is so much bigger than Bob Johnson, but most of the book does honestly revolve around the effects of that marriage, the journey with BET, the affair Bob Johnson had with Deborah Lee, and his ridiculous treatment of her as a wife. I guess if you were with someone since 17 years old, married for 33 years, and never really had a life outside of them, your whole book may have to revolve somewhat around them because it’s the majority of your life’s journey, so I get it.

This book depicts how Outside of Bob Johnson Sheila Johnson is a brilliant entrepreneur, business woman, and advocate for great causes. This book touches on sexism, racism, and the treatment of women in business. I enjoyed learning about the other parts of her life and seeing her brilliance outside of Bob. As she stated “The 3rd chapter of her life will be the best chapter”
I was able to finish the book in 2 days but truthfully it was because last night I had a long 3 hour drive to Maryland and 3 hour drive back home, so some of my time in the passenger seat was given to this book.

I would give it a 4⭐️ out of 5 and it’s well worth a read/listen. Everyone will find something that is relatable.

She pissed me off most of the book. Being so oblivious to what was right in front of her face. Overall I loved the book but woman to woman, no way.

I really enjoyed this memoir, made even more appealing as I listened to the audiobook narrated by Sheila Johnson.

Hers was an age old tale of being married to a narcissist. I found her accounts of her husband highly believable as I experienced a similar situation.

I had no idea that Sheila Johnson was that successful and kudos to her for rising above her circumstances.

I’ll be adding the memoir of the “other woman” to my list as I’m curious as to how she’ll explain her role.

It was frustrating to read about her constantly making choices that held her back, especially for a man who was so selfish and ungrateful. But eventually, she made it to the other side, even though she was still dealing with the trauma of her past. At one point, she asks, “How can I trust my instincts when I’ve made so many bad choices?” That made me feel so sad for her. Despite all of this, I’m so impressed by everything she’s accomplished and overcame. It’s always amazing to see when women finally put themselves first and things just start falling into place. What’s even more inspiring is how she turned around and paid it forward, making everything around her better. Her story is a great reminder of how powerful it is when we prioritize ourselves and trust our instincts.