Although season three of VH1’s smash hit Love and Hip Hop is over, the stars of the show are still on their grind and remain in the spotlight. Erica Mena and Winter Ramos both dropped books this month.
And, just in time for summer reading, we help you decide which book is hype and which is just gossip. —April Dawn Ricchuito
Underneath It All, Erica Mena
Love her or hate her, Erica Mena is without a doubt one of the shows biggest—and most controversial—stars. Underneath It All is Erica’s life story, which details her humble beginnings: her mother was pregnant with her while in jail and she spent a good deal of time in foster care, where she endured horrific bouts of abuse. Unfortunately, the abuse didn’t stop in childhood—she endured an abusive relationship with the father of her son. Her story is raw and real. She doesn’t hold back.
More importantly, it’s relatable. You’ll see Erica in a whole new light, and those of you who’ve questioned her behaviors and called her “crazy” may find a little bit of themselves in Erica’s story. You’ll notice the hurt little girl who grew into a strong independent woman who’s brave enough to share her story with the world.
Game Over, Winter Ramos
Winter’s book, Game Over, has been boasted as a juicy “tell all.” If you dig Winter, by all means show your support and pick it up. But if you’re looking for dirty little secrets and groundbreaking gossip, look elsewhere. You’ll find some details of her sexual misadventures as she name drops (Ja Rule and Jadakiss), but the book is more autobiographical than the graphic sexcapade-tell-all I was expecting.
The book is a testament to Winter’s business savy—extracurricular sexual activities aside—and she shows us her skills as a hustler. Did I mention it’s a best seller? It’s also important to note that in the front of the book Winter’s co-star Lore’l says she’ll be getting a cut of the book sales. And there’s a disclaimer stating that the book “is a work of fiction.” Hmmmm. Just saying!
Check them out for yourself and decide: hot or hype?