My Best is Never Enough: An African American Romance & Drama Kindle Edition by David Weaver

 Book Excerpt:

"Growing up, Jazir was taught that if he maintained good grades and did the right things, he could live his dream life. He decided to follow the advice path––no sex before marriage, never breaking any laws, no drinking, no smoking–– a dedicated straight-A student. After graduating college, however, he failed to land a job and ended up homeless–– living in a tent on the streets of Los Angeles with his wife and son. Tragedy strikes in their tent–– he loses his wife to sickness, and his son––Jalob, is kidnapped right in the middle of his grieving. The kidnapping–– orchestrated by a childless family with connections to corrupt police officers, sends him down the darkest spiral of his life–– challenging everything he stood for and believed in. He vows never to stop fighting for Jalob's return and is prepared to do whatever it takes to get him back.

Impressed by his resume, Lyria offers him the opportunity of a lifetime–– the end of his struggling days and the ability to get his son back–– provided he can survive a mission inside one of the city's most corrupt criminal organizations. With no family other than Jalob and no instruction book on being a widow, he's forced to start life over–– Embarking on a journey opposite his planned path.

Every sentence is patiently and poetically written: a fast-building drama, a slow-building love story. It is a story that questions the meaning of family, friendship, and love. Henrio, Lucia, Ceyrah Clarra, Sandi, Jazir, Jalob, Hoya, and Supa Rodger make for an unforgettable ensemble of characters. A story that will stick with you long after you've read the final paragraph."

 

Title: My Best Is Never Enough
Author: David Weaver
Publisher: David Weaver Presents 2023; 1st edition
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"My Best is Never Enough" by David Weaver

My Sentiments:

'My Best Is Never Enough' was a good read where this author worked his magic to give the readers a novel about Jazir and his son Jalob. We find from the read that Jazir had the weight of the world on his shoulders with his wife being ill, then dying, leaving him with a young son, Jalob, to care for while trying to take care of himself. Then, meeting those hateful people...Henrio and Sandra definitely presented something else that Jazir would have to contend with till the end of the story. I enjoyed how Jazir was determined to get his life back together with his son as he struggled with it, seeming like 'My Best is Never Enough.' I liked that title because it fitted so well with the story.

It was good seeing Jazir meet a friend with one person who helped him understand some things that he needed to know when he was incarcerated. The characters from the story were very well-developed, with some being more complicated than others. I wasn't surprised with Lydia. Something more was going on with her that did prove my thought pattern by the end of the story.

Overall, this was an excellent, powerful, dramatic read that I hope the readers will pick up and see how well this author brings it all out. Yes, there is a little more going to be happening with Lucia, who had befriended Jazir, where one will see how he deals with his mafia family.

To Be Silent (The Lewis Series Book 4) Kindle Edition by Niki Jilvontae

Book Excerpt:

"In the last book, the trilogy of The Lewis Series, we got the pleasure to Meet Norman, who is a brand new breed of a psycho killer. Norman's son Dahmer showed us that some Misfits kill and enjoy the flavor of flesh. In this book, Star is back following the execution of her mother, looking for revenge! But, after being tortured by Abaddon, she has a new kind of rage that grows in silence. Come on to this new part of the journey, The Misfits, and witness as Star falls in love through murder and discover how the crew lets their lights shine… silently!"

Title: To Be Silent
Author: Niki Jilvontae
Publisher: N. J.
Series: The Lewis Series Book 4
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"To Be Silent" by Niki Jilvontae"

My Sentiments:

Wow, what a series...' To Be Silent' was seeing how Star is back and 'looking for revenge for the execution of her mother.'

Star had been through a lot being tortured by Abaddon. As the story continues, we will see how the Lewis family and Misfits come together, and this author will give the readers quite a story with many twists and turns, as their aim was getting Abaddon. Also, has Star fallen in love?

To fully understand this story, one must start with books 1, 2, & 3 so you will stay aware of what has gone on earlier in this good story by this author as the games begin.

Sleeping in Sin: The Lesson Kindle Edition by Cornelia Smith

 Book Excerpt:

"Zakiya, a heartbroken, Christian, southern girl, leaves her small hometown and her faith for the Big Apple. Chasing her dreams, she slips into the arms of the most powerful and ruthless man in New York, Jarlath. After a night of Passion with Jarlath, Zakiya is informed about his wife. Determined to seek better, she takes her dignity and secret to big and better things; Khalon, New York's finest detective. Believing that she has found a perfect love with Khalon, she gives her heart to the perfect stranger. Unfortunately, Zakiya is stuck in the middle of a dangerous love triangle on this roller-coaster. This suspense thriller is filled with deceit, murder, lies, and the trigger, love. Cornelia Smith gives you a novel that will keep your eyes glued to the pages as you turn to learn the lesson Zakiya learns from Sleeping in Sin."

Title: Sleeping in Sin: The Lesson
Author: Cornelia Smith
Publisher: The Book Plug LLC; 2nd edition
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Sleeping in Sin: The Lesson" by Cornelia Smith

My Assessment:

'Sleeping in Sin: The Lesson' was quite a read that will keep the reader turning the pages. The lesson learned in this story is that who in the world would you trust when it came to men that Zikaya cared about? Be ready for twists all over the place, especially regarding Bailey, Jarlath, and Ronnie. This story will have a little storyline from:'love, hate, family issues, enemies, friendships, sex, murder,' and let's not leave out the mystery and drama all over the place. 'Sleeping in Sin: The Lesson' will be a ride that will leave the reader wanting more, and there will be several series until the end. So, be ready for more good reading!

Honor: The Billionaire Bae: Book 1 (The Billionaire Bae Series) Kindle Edition by Amber Ghe

 Book Excerpt:

"Zea: I’d always been a hopeless romantic – well, I used to be.

Until I had to make a devastating decision.

See, I’m a Pastor’s daughter, and my loyalty to my family and church won.

It was apparent I didn’t support my ex’s new business venture, so I dipped.

I know it sounds crazy. And yes, I was often tormented by that decision. See, I was young and dumb then.

But the day we bumped into each other after eight long years, the LUST in his eyes told me we had UNFINISHED BUSINESS.

This time my actions screamed grown woman.

And, despite my past indiscretions towards this man.

He had me breaking all my rules… AGAIN.

Honor: Eight years ago, I had a breakthrough and a breakdown on the same day.

When my fiancé walked out of my life with no explanation, leaving me to figure it out.

After that, I didn’t do relationships. I was dead inside.

Instead, I pushed myself to build a billion-dollar business with my siblings.

A legacy.

I vowed to see it through till the end.

Still, I never knew how I would respond if I saw her again… until it happened.

Her touch sent a warming shiver through me.

I had to punish her. I wanted to punish her.

But I couldn’t. See, Zea gave me new life and a reason to fight through my darkest days to come."

Title: Honor: The Billionaire Bae: Book 1
Author: Amber Ghe
Publisher: Hustle & Write Publishing
Series: The Billionaire Bae Series Book 1
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Honor: The Billionaire Bae" by Amber Ghe

My Assessment:

The author gives the reader a good read of a second chance at love. Honor and Zea had broken up some eight years ago when she walked out and left no explanation. And with that, Honor decided he would not do relationships; however, when Spirit, his sister, opens up a hotel in Las Vegas and hires Zea...things will change for these two. What will bring Honor and Zea back together? What will happen when a secret comes out where Zea helps. I will stop here and say you will have to pick up this novel to see how well this story will come out. Will Zea be able to give him a new lease on life? There will be some twists that will keep one turning the pages to see what's coming next, and by the end will, these two. Finally, Honor and Zea get another chance of love.

Ronnie and Clyde 3: The Finale Kindle Edition by Jade Jones

 Book Excerpt:

"The Long-Awaited Finale Is Finally Here!!!

Ronnie and Clyde have built a nest and are working towards a long, fulfilling love life filled with happiness—but their long list of enemies have other plans. Clyde's biggest mistake was letting his rivals continue to breathe and know that every decision has come back to haunt him. To sleep peacefully at night, he has to cross them off his list one by one. If not, they will only continue to be a threat to those he loves—particularly his wife and child.

Can Ronnie and Clyde persevere despite the many obstacles and enemies they face? Or will their adversaries crush them before they get their happily ever after? Find out in the action-packed and drama-filled final installment of "Ronnie and Clyde."

***This urban fiction romance is a completed series***

Title: Ronnie and Clyde 3
Author: Jade Jones
Publisher: Jaded Publications
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Ronnie and Clyde 3: The Finale" by Jade Jones

My Assessment:

All that is left to say about 'Ronnie and Clyde 3' is if you have read any of this author's novels, you know what she can bring to the reader. And I will say she brought it all to a climax in how this story ended for Clyde and Ronne. It seems that all were out to get Clyde and Ronnie, but the tables turned as it was for quite a few of the characters got their karma ...I think you can say...all of them did in one form or another...from Polo, Chill, Boogie, Ana, Rondo, Nina, Ross, Vader, and let's not forget Polo's dad. And let's not forget Daya...I guess we all know why she went crazy on Arnez. Think who called Daya? Yes, there were a lot of killings going on...but what would you aspect from what had been going on previously from this series?

Oh, I will say I felt so sorry for baby Carter...he will definitely need some help with much therapy after all that little fellow went through. Now that I think of it, both Ronnie and Clyde will need it too.

This was some series...so if this isn't your kind of read...it's OK. However, the author brings it all out, and we find out who will be left standing, after all, is said and done?

Burning Bridges Kindle Edition by J. Brinkley

 Book Excerpt:

"Life in the fast lane is more than making money: It’s a gamble between life and death. Brecee Monroe has never had it easy. As the son of a drug dealer living out a life sentence in prison and a mother who can’t find the good in him, he struggles to compete with his oldest brother, who is successful and the light of his mother’s eye. Even though he’s deeply flawed, he’s still loved by his girlfriend Naudia, the daughter of one of Manhattan’s most prominent socialites. Brecee’s lack of purpose comes to a halt when one of the biggest drug dealers, Fredricko, takes him under his wing. The money comes in fast, and Brecee is on top of the world. That is until he gets arrested. Once in prison, Brecee is forced to make amends with his estranged father and comes to terms with how his decisions have hurt the people he loved most. Burning Bridges encapsulates a story of a triumph and inner faith. Will Brecee move beyond the grief and painful recollections of a father-son relationship torn apart by the very streets that are threatening to engulf him? Or will he deal with his inner demons and overcome the call of the streets?"

Title: Burning Bridges
Author: J. Brinkley
Publisher: V.O.M.A. PUBLICATIONS
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:

"Burning Bridges" by J. Brinkley

My Speculation:

As I read through "Burning Bridges," I found the read somewhat sad in what had all happened in Brecee Monroe's life. I found in understanding what all had gone down in Brecee past with his father going to prison at an early age and his mom and brother trying to keep him on the straight and narrow; however, he decided to go another path that leads into the same prison that his father was in. I could understand why his mother and brother were suspicious of Brecee because he has always let them down in one form or another. All that was left for him to do was prove not only to them but also to himself that he had changed. This happens in so many families that have been put through it all, and they can become sick and tired of his mess. I wasn't left feeling sorry one bit for Brecee, just because he now wanted to read his father's letters. They had been offered to him to read many times, and he refused to do so. Hopefully, as he matures, maybe he will understand why his mother felt the way she had? It wasn't because she didn't love him; it's just after being hurt so much not only by her husband but to have a son do the same would make any person stop and say enough. Maybe with his book writing and his father's love, he will get what he needs out of his life. Sometimes when you burn your bridges, they are hard to go back in.

Boss'd Up With A Billionaire 2 Kindle Edition by Jade Jones

 Book Excerpt:

THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED SEQUEL HAS FINALLY ARRIVED!

"Yvonne, Noble, Sami, Abner, and Chaos are back for the riveting second installment of this fast-paced and action-filled series!

Noble has the world on his shoulders. He fell for a great woman who has the biggest skeleton in her closet. Will he realize she's an FBI agent before it's too late? Or will his lack of judgment cause him to be indicted on federal charges?

Instead of thinking with her head, Sami has always been led by her heart. But the trouble she finds herself in because of this might just cost her her life. Prepare yourself for yet another wild, messy ride! Secrets will be exposed. Friends will be betrayed. And by the end of this book, you will be left shocked and confounded."

Title: Boss'd Up With A Billionaire 2 by Jade Jones
Author: Jade Jones
Publisher: Jade Publications
Series: Part 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Boss'd Up With A Billionaire 2" by Jade Jones

My Speculation:

All that is left to say is wow, because there is so much going on in this read that you will have to keep up. From all of the characters from Chauncey, Chaos, Dimitri, Tesha, Abner, Yvonne, Sami, Zariah, Noble, Terror, Darit, and I am sure I have left someone out, this story is something else. Who can trust who? Who wants revenge? I am not sure if I felt sorry for any one of these characters, maybe the little one Nate. There are lots of questions that need to be answered, so I see there will be a part 3; maybe we will be able to get a better understanding of all that has proceeded and who has done what to whom. When it all comes out, hopefully, it will make sense to the reader, especially those who will come out of this episode alive.

Secrets of a Kept Woman 3 Kindle Edition by Shani Greene-Dowdell

 Book Excerpt:

"Baggage. Every woman has it, but Rhonda Jackson is carrying around so much that her back is about to break. Kicked out and abandoned by her mother at sixteen, Rhonda Wilson didn’t get the blueprint on how to love. Instead, she's been pulling a freight train of internal turmoil around and dumping pieces of it on the people who love her the most.

After coveting Shayla's first and second husband, she finds herself battling to stay out of jail. Fortunate for her, Jameson Brown has had a crush on her since they were children, and he’s a partner at Brown and Associates Law Firm. He agrees to take Rhonda's case, but under one condition. She must make true amends for all the hell she's raised. Coming from a world of love, privilege, and religion, Jameson was groomed to go after what he wants. And he wants Rhonda, but not before she learns the true meaning of love.

Will she finally face her demons and discover self-love?"

New Cover. New Edits. Same Great Story.

Title: Secrets of a Kept Woman 3
Author: Shani Greene-Dowdell
Publisher: Imperial Publishing House; 2nd Edition
Series: Part 3
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Secrets of a Kept Woman 3" by Shani Greene-Dowdell

My Speculation:

"Secrets of a Kept Woman 3" had me shaking my head through the story. It just seems like Ms. Rhonda could get away with all the mess and shenanigans that come before her. I couldn't believe that Jameson could fall so in love with her. I know he had liked her during his childhood, but to drop Lessia as Jameson did was awful. I guess we will have to get the next series, which I believe is the finale, to see what is coming next. Ms. Rhonda, a free woman until something happens at her mental health facility, that is 'so damaging that even her good luck won't be able to save her.'

Blood Oath Kindle Edition by Faith

 Book Excerpt:

"Celeste fell in love with Andre the first time she laid eyes on him. She was his. Her first true love. She loved him so much she married him behind bars. He was her everything. Now that he's getting out Celeste is convinced she's going to live her happily ever after.

Will Andre live up to his promises?

Andre Harris comes from a tight-knit family. They aren't too thrilled that the baby of the family has married without the family's approval. Will they accept Celeste? Does happily ever after exist when you get married and you don't have a clue on what kind of family you've married into?

How well do you really know the one you love?"

Title: Blood Oath
Author: Faith
Publisher: Pen Bullies LLC
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Blood Oath" by Faith

My Speculation:

What a read that will keep you turning the pages to see what will be happening next for Celeste. I will say she was quite naive in how she picked this person that she married. One could tell that this whole Harris family was indeed 'crazy, deranged, and definitely psychotic.' Well, there was one son that seem OK. By the end of the story, the reader will be presented with a roller-coaster ride as Celeste having to deal with her crazy ex Andre. I was glad to see Celeste did what she had to do to save her life.

Boss'd Up With A Billionaire Kindle Edition by Jade Jones

 

Book Excerpt:

"

A HOT AND JUICY NOVEL FROM BESTSELLING AUTHOR, JADE JONES

Yvonne, a dedicated special agent living in the heart of Chicago, is as smart and sensible as they come in almost everything – except love. When she meets Noble, a bad boy billionaire armed with enough suave and swagger to steal a girl’s heart, she falls head over heels in love with him. But it turns out that Yvonne’s new man is armed with a lot more than just killer good looks. 


Meanwhile, Yvonne’s best friend Sami’s love life turns into a tangled web as she holds her boyfriend, Chaos down while running around town with a married man. 


Things get even more complicated when Noble’s crazy baby mama, Zariah, who won’t give up on him, wants him back at any cost. And Noble just can’t seem to catch a break as Zariah’s cousin Abner tries to bring him down and it’s only a matter of time before Yvonne gets caught in the middle.
“

Boss’d Up with a Billionaire” is an African American urban romance filled with suspense and drama that will transport you into a fast-paced world where crime and passion collide."

Title: Boss'd Up With A Billionaire
Author: Jade Jones
Publisher: Jade Publications
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Boss'd Up With A Billionaire" by Jade Jones

My Speculation:

The author gives the reader one entertaining read where it seems like everyone is on alert for one reason or another. I enjoyed how well I could read this fast-paced story that contained a little bit of it all from 'drama, lies, betrayal, twists and turns, and secrets' that were all over the place. By the end of the story, what will be coming next as the story continues? Who will be left standing in the future? Well, I guess we will have to pick up part two for the rest of this story.

Boo'd Up With A Bad Boy: A Standalone Novel Kindle Edition by Jade Jones

 Book Excerpt:

"

A GRIPPING STANDALONE FROM BESTSELLING AUTHOR, JADE JONES

Heavy is the head that wears the crown, and Mars wears it well as the King of New York. He’s got money, fast cars, and women by the flock. But wearing the crown doesn’t mean anything when you’re alone at the top. Mars is tired of the same old money-hungry women, and he’s beginning to think that the only woman who will ever genuinely love him, is his mother. That is until he runs into the right woman.

Ulani is a beautiful girl with a broken spirit. What started out as a fairytale love, quickly turned into a horror movie nightmare. After spending most of her life under the iron fist of her controlling, abusive boyfriend Bryheem, Ulani isn’t sure if exploring a new love is even worth the wrath of her scornful ex. Love proves to be more complicated than ever when enemies vie for the same heart. The old saying goes, “may the best man win,” but who decides who is the best? With her brain and her heart pulling her in opposite directions, Ulani isn’t sure if she’s capable of making the right choice.

With his right-hand man, Jabez, by his side; can Mars maintain the top spot, care for his ailing mother, clean up after his knuckleheaded brother, and ward off foes, all while trying to mend a heart he didn’t break? And will Ulani continue to allow her past to control her future, or will she finally allow herself the healing she and her son deserve? Will she allow the love of a bad boy to take her to new heights? Or will she allow it to be her downfall?"

*** This book was previously titled "I Only Like Bad Boys" ***

Title: Boo'd Up With A Bad Boy
Author: Jade Jones
Publisher: Jaded Publications
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Boo'd Up With A Bad Boy"' by Jade Jones

My Speculation:

Wow, what a story that left me somewhat surprised at the ending. The story started out looking like there would be help for Ulani with Mars caring for her. However, Bryheem, [Ulani's ex] was determined that it was not to be for poor Ulani. And it seems like there was some betrayal around for Mars and even his mom, but coming from his best friend left me in awe! Again, wow, what an ending!

No Shade Sis Kindle Edition by Niki Jilvontae

Book Excerpt:

"Shade can be that cozy spot under your favorite tree or that comfy chair on grandma's porch. It can be a place of comfort, offer relief, or refuge on a hot, sunny day. Shade can also be regarded as a subtle diss from someone too scared to be direct. The latter proves to be the definition in this brilliantly woven tale. Come on this day in the life adventure told by the Word Chemist, Esha Sharday, and find out what the phrase, "No Shade Sis" really means. Experience love, loss, triumph, and tragedy as you read about the most pivotal 24hours of this teenage girl's life. Will Esha Sharday rise above the Shade? Come on this heart wrenching, emotional thrill ride and find out!"

Title: No Shade Sis
Author: Niki Jilvontae
Publisher: N. J.
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:

"No Shade Sis" by Niki Jilvontae

My Speculation:


I found "No Shade Sis" was an excellent read that was simply leaving you saying, wow, what a read!
When I first started reading this incredible story, I wasn't sure where it was taking me, but I will say what this author produced was indeed a work of art in its presentation. The 'No Shade Sis' began with Esha having to get it all out, and with the help of her cousin and friend, it was ready to be put out there. The story will take a turn when Esha gives thought to all of the Shade that has gone on in her life, and things will take a turn. Now I will stop here and say you will have to pick up this read to see how these twists will turn in the story will come out. Seeing Esha rise over the Shade was quite a beautiful thing for all of those who had persecuted her from her mom, sister, neighbor, and some so-called friends. All that is left to say is that I genuinely enjoyed the story, and the ending was wonderful. 

LIL MAMA FROM THE GUTTA Kindle Edition by RACQUEL WILLIAMS

Excerpt:

"Securing the bag, is the motto that young Jada lives by, but don’t let her pretty face fool you, she’s as deadly as they come. Born and raised in the Whitcomb Court Project, one of Richmond, Virginia’s most ruthless housing projects, she has a poor upbringing. She started looking for love in all the wrong places. With a voluptuous body and sharp mouthpiece, she caught the attention of a few area dope boys. With nothing, but money on her mind, she’s a force to be reckoned with.

She soon forms a clique of her own with Lauren and Kellize. With Jada being the most ruthless out of the clique, she concocts a plan, to get money out of one of the biggest dope boys, Asad from Creighton Court Projects. Oblivious to the fact that Asad was a stone-cold killer with a long criminal history, she puts her life and the lives of her girls in harm’s way with no solid plan on how to escape.
Take a ride with Jada and her girls as they wreak havoc on the streets of Richmond. Greed, lust, jealousy, and murder all wrapped around in this twisted story. Will their love and loyalty for one another keep them together, or is it every woman for themself?"

Title: Lil Mama From the Gutta
Author: Racquel Williams
Publisher: RACQUEL WILLIAMS PRESENTS LLC
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Lil Mama From The Gutta" by Racquel Williams

My Speculation:

What a story that will leave you guessing and shaking your head at the same time with many twists that seem to keep coming for all of these characters. What some people will do for the mighty dollar, but in the end, will it be worth it? I will say the ending gave me quite a shocker. 

Breaking Dawn (Love Under New Management Book 1) Kindle Edition by C. Monet

Excerpt:

"Dawn Theron is a self-made woman with the confidence of a thousand women dwelling and flowing through her veins. Being the owner of the hottest strip club isn't easy when you have men coming attempting to tarnish something they didn't create. While running her business, she is also tasked with raising her son. She's focused on getting everything she wanted. Love is around the corner waiting to knock on her door, but she doesn't plan on answering. 

Andre Caine has his eyes set on Dawn's business but isn't prepared for the fight ahead. Walking in he thinks this will be an easy move until he meets Dawn face to face. She's unfiltered and not afraid to let him know who's the boss. He's now tasked with keeping it strictly business or fighting a love like he's never imagined.

Both Dawn and Andre are unsure where this meeting will go but one thing for sure is he plans to break Dawn down either to love her or take her business. The choice is hers. Will Dawn let her guard down? Will Andre back off when he finally gets to know her?

This is the first part of the three-book series Love Under New Management. This will be a standalone series."

Title: Breaking Dawn
Author: C. Monet
Publisher: B. Love Publications
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Breaking Dawn" by C. Monet

My Speculation:

I enjoyed this read that showed one 'bold, aggressive, sharp, self-confident, and even a mother' that was tough as nails that went after what Dawn wanted. I liked how the two main characters went after what they wanted when it came to love, especially when Dawn started to find a balance in her life. It was quite interesting to see how they will be able to overcome their obstacles, choosing to love each other over pride. I also enjoyed the input of the secondary characters Toni and Belize, who also had 'confidence and definitely girl power.'