My Top 10 Books of 2021

I read so many good books in 2021. I had a goal to read 125 books and I smashed that goal reading 159 books. Please keep in mind that not all of these books were released in 2021, but this is the year I happened to find and read these gems in. There were two author’s, Ms. Kennedy Ryan and Rae Lyse, that I read for the first time this year and I was beyond impressed with their work. They have earned me as a fan. Both have made my top 10 and will be listed below. Below I have listed my reviews of the 10 books to help you decide if you are interested in checking out the stories.

If you click on the image it will link you to the book to buy. Please note they are affiliate links and I receive a small commission.

Let’s Get into my Top 10!!

10.) The Come up and Take Down in the Afterward Series by Nia Forrester

The Come up was published in 2015 and The Take down in 2017. Both of these were new to me though and I loved them because long after I read these books, I was left thinking deeply about these characters.

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The Come up by Nia Forrester

I read this story and the sequel before reviewing this book, which is something I never do. I like to review each book separately. I was on the fence between 4 or 5 stars for this book because I wanted more from Makayla. I think I was getting a little jaded from the other boss babes connected through these series. However, that is NOT who she was and that was exactly the point. There was no need to expect that she would have to fit in that box as well.

Makayla was different. A natural beauty, that did nothing to fit in. She was smart, kind, encouraging, and protective. She was a fierce protector over those she loved. Throughout much of this book she was selfless. Always trying to do what was best for others. She had yet to find her "thing" business wise, but she was a great support system for her Grandmother and her friend Devin. The biggest thing she did for herself was to pursue Jamal. There were times it seemed like she was in awe of him, but opening up to act on that chemistry was an act she did for herself.

Jamal, fly a$#, smooth, fine, charming playboy Jamal. We got to see so much of him in Chris and Robyn's story that I was eager to read all about him. He was such a loyal friend and so was Makayla. As I mentioned above, for some reason I had a preconceived notion of him adding another powerful woman to the wives club. Initially, I was disappointed in him because he was throwing out mixed signals, which he was too old for. Especially when he was clear on how he felt and kept pursuing someone that he could not find a spark for... It seemed as if even he too felt that he was supposed to be with a mature driven woman. However, that was not his choice, that was not who he needed. Jamal was attracted to Kayla because they had so much in common. She understood his struggle at the core, how he grew up because she was literally still living it. I don't think she even understood the friendship, the kinship he felt for her.

I worried about this couple because they didn't really address, Devin in this book. Although, Jamal came across like he would tolerate them, you could tell that their relationship was a cause of contention for them.

This book was such a different trajectory from the other stories. To me it almost felt a little more mild. I guess I may have wanted more for Jamal, but this was his story and I think it was perfect for him.

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The Takedown by Nia Forrester

Letting go of the past, to embrace the future
I really enjoyed the evolution of Jamal and Makayla. This book was somewhat of a struggle as they navigated life together.

In the first book I low key felt some type of way about Kayla. In this book I realized what it was. She used Devin as a crutch. Whenever something didn't go her way with Jamal she would just go get her fix with Devin. Devin was also very dependent on Kayla. Instead of being mad and working through it with her fiancee, she would instead run. Needless to say Jamal and Kayla struggled with real communication. Kayla was like a fish out of water. She was young, still floundering, trying to figure out what she wanted to do with her life while Jamal was flourishing at the top of his career. You could tell it created insecurities for her even though Jamal was all about her.

Jamal, well I loved him even more in this book. He still got on my nerves with his flirting and entertaining women just a tad too close. However, he was a lot more vulnerable this time around. He understood Kayla was his match and because of that he wanted to repair his relationship with Devin, because he was the closest thing she had to family. I was almost sad for him because Kayla was always ready to choose Devin, no matter the situation and she wasn't even realizing it. As the relationship between Devin and Jamal was strengthened, Devin put much needed space between him and Kayla. They both were forced to figure out how to live without using each other as a crutch.

As much as this was a story about love prevailing for Jamal and Kayla, it was also about heartbreak between Kayla and Devin. It was bittersweet, but both Devin and Kayla were still able to grow once they let go of each other.

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9.) Flagrant by Alexandria House

Baggage full of love
Daaaaamn!!! I wasn't ready for this ending. Like I didn't see it coming and it definitely pushed this book to 5 stars for me. I'm literally stunned. I'll be honest I had mixed feelings about this book, because Polo had me messed up. One minute he was professing his deep love and the next his actions were hella questionable. I was over him. By that same token Kendra was too docile for me and I was over her too. I had to let it sit with me because if a book can have me this deep in my feelings and then completely throw me for the loop at the end the author has done their job. Let me give my typical review below lol.
Paul aka Polo had been with his girlfriend Kendra for over 14 years. Their history ran deep. They met as older teens and eventually went to college together. Polo was a gifted basketball player and he used that gift to take care of Kendra since they were teenagers.
Kendra was a sweet, innocent girl navigating an extremely strict and abusive household. Polo saved her from that circumstance and I believe that contributed to her accepting whatever he gave her. Whether it be good or bad. It was hard to swallow because she jumped from an abusive household to a disrespectful one.
This book had a LOT going on...from mental illness, abuse, family dysfunction to the struggles to find oneself as well as balance a highly visible job. This book does it all.

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8.) Offensive Formations (Connecticut Kings #8) by Christina C. Jones

Talented Love
When I tell you Mrs. Jones and Ms. Belvin did not come to play with us, I mean it!
Teagan was my type of girl. She was just...my people. Although she was an ELITE athlete, we got to experience her as a young black woman living her life and excelling in her sport. I love that she was unapologetically herself, but didn't shy away from her insecurities. She allowed herself to feel and I was here for it all. I was rooting for her as she competed with so much turmoil around her. An unexpected meeting with Ambrose left her with new thoughts, something she wasn't sure she was ready for.
Ambrose felt their connection too, but tried to shake it off. Brose was focused...out to prove that he deserved to be a King. I like him...he was calm, reserved, observant, yet fun, and protective. He too faced some insecurities and continued to work to move past them. The WAY he supported Teagan even when she wasn't present was honorable. He did so much to make sure she was good.
Their chemistry was dope!
The sub characters, I enjoyed them so much. Cole with her hot tempered yet supportive self, was great to see both her and Jordan live out new aspirations. The mother's were everything and I loved how they showed up for their children.
It was such a good story, binge reading was completely worth it!

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7.) Equivalent Exchange by Christina C. Jones

Mutual love
This book was just everything!
It is a love story that was far from a fairy tale, but definitely meant to be.
Keris had been running from a terrible previous relationship and a home that wasn't....her home. She runs into a beautiful man who she hopes will temporarily help her forget her dreadful situation.
Unbeknownst to her this man, Laken has other plans for her. Immediately he is taken by Keris and carefully persues her.
They both were damaged from their past, but even when one was being stubborn they managed to progress together. I felt their love before they even considered love. It was in their actions. The WAY they showed up for each other, the WAY they protected each other.
I also love that they were older 36 and 40 respectively and they were much wiser for it. Love can happen at all ages it's not meant just for the young.
To close their physical connection was off the charts, and I like how intentional Laken was by ensuring they built beyond it. Excellent read!

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6.) Reel (Hollywood Renaissance #1) by Kennedy Ryan

A Sunset Love
Whew when I tell you my heart is just a wreck. My ex mother in law always says make sure you are marrying a person that will take care of you if you ever get sick. She believes, and I agree with her, that it is at these lowest moments real love is shown. This story was the epitome of that sentiment.
Canon (the hero) showed that unwavering love for his mother and for Neevah. It was breathtakingly beautiful.
I initially thought this book was about chasing your dreams. Both Neevah (the heroine) and Dessi (the singer Neevah was portraying) were crazy talented and had so much to give the world. We get to experience both of them navigating the ups and downs of chasing stardom. Ms. Ryan did an excellent job weaving the past and present together, it felt...right. Dessi, although relatively unknown paved the way for bold talents like Neevah. It was clear that the underlying theme was that there were huge sacrifices that have to be made when relentlessly pursuing your dreams. For Neevah it was her health, for Dessi it was lost love, and both missed out on familial relationships.
As the story progressed I realized it was about chasing love...at whatever the cost. I was so glad we got to see the perspectives of both Canon and Neevah, because Canon although guarded at first with Neevah fought for her behind the scenes. He fought for the story, but he also fought for HER to tell the story through her gifts. Out the gate Canon was Neevah's ultimate protector. His walls were up to shield her from the noise that comes with stardom. This man was everything. He felt like a quiet, yet low rumbling storm that knocked down barriers along the way. The chemistry was fierce between them from the start. They tried to ignore it, but a connection like theirs refuses to be ignored. Knowing what it could cost....both Canon and Neevah chose to chase love. I wanted to say I enjoyed Canon's evolution, but I don't think it was that at all...it was more of him returning to his roots. Allowing himself to open up and love abandonedly even when the stakes were high, just like he did for his mother. You know the book is good when you can FEEL the love jumping off the pages. Sigh, just everything.

Neevah was a warrior. Pushed into life alone, confused, but with a steadfast resolve to live her dreams. For years that dream simmered and when it was finally ready to burn, it almost turned her into ashes. Her gift was literally tearing her apart, while simultaneously giving her a love that she couldn't even fathom. My heart broke as her physical and internal changes, started to affect her perception of self. Canon, the slow sweet storm, was her calm because he loved her unconditionally.

As in every other book I've read by Kennedy, she educates through love. As the love story unfolds she educates us on the strife black artists known and unknown endured as they attempted to use their talent in a world that refused to accept them as humans. The need for documentaries and biopics to shine a light on "real" history was and still us necessary. She also managed to shine a light on an autoimmune disease that primarily ravages black women. It was tastefully done..meaning that the disease did not over power the story.

My favorite quote was:
“Mama always said waiting for sunsets was like waiting for a miracle you knew would come,” he says, his voice graveled with the emotion in his eyes. “How happy she must be to know I finally found mine.” I mean can you imagine a man loving you this way?? GAWD.

Bravo Ms. Ryan for yet another beautifully nuanced story.

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5.) Love’s Encroachment by Love Belvin

ANOTHER ONE!
I was initially introduced to Ms. Belvin through the Connecticut Kings series and was amazed by her story telling. This book continues that legacy.

Nye was frustrating and immature at times, but I saw her. I actually felt sorry for her because she didn't seem to understand that she was worthy of being in a real relationship. Her self preservation kept her from being able to articulate her true feelings. She covered everything with her wit which made her come across as calculating, when in truth she was guarded because of her past. With her being apart of the #taurusgang I related to her....her unwavering love and support to Zo, her hard working attitude, and the fierce protective nature over the ones she loved. I understand being wrapped up in motherhood and sacrificing for your children and that helped me to get past the mistake she made as a child, because I was definitely side eyeing her hard.

Launz really grew unexpectedly throughout this book. He was content with his life and out of nowhere everything he knew was turned upside down. I wasn't sure if he was going to open up, but he did and it was beautiful. He too was guarded and had not realized how heartbreak at a young age shaped him. I loved him as a beautifully flawed man. As he came into his own he really started to lead his untraditional family. His fear of Nye was rooted in an emotion a feeling he refused to acknowledge and I loved how their relationship developed. I related to Launz because people mistake me for shy all the time, when really I'm just observant and determining how and if I'm going to interact with you. I'm sure his observant nature helped him as a coach.

I feel like Ms. Belvin always has some serious topics, but I laughed a lot and felt so connected to these characters. Zo was a light. A beautiful spirit, respectful, and charming. He was the bond weaved through out this story. It was also cool to see some of the past characters even briefly, it was both funny and emotional.

This story was beautifully written, Ms. Belvin does not miss. I'm proud to call Ms. Belvin my favorite author!

4.) Hoops Series by Kennedy Ryan

(3 standalones that should in my opinion be read in order)

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Long Shot (Hoops Book 1)

Love Wins!
I went through so many emotions as I read this book. Timing and going with your gut...were the biggest things that stood out to me.

Iris...sweet, brave Iris was full of light. She was passionate and ready to take the world by storm after college, relationship be damned. One encounter with a beautiful man changed the trajectory of her life. At a bar watching her favorite basketball team she crosses paths with August and their connection is electric. Their timing was off because she had a boyfriend. Unfortunately her boyfriend also felt this connection between them and it seemed like he was on a mission to keep her all to himself by any means necessary. I could literally feel her light being dimmed and eventually completely snuffed out as he controlled every move she made.

August was extremely talented, handsome, intelligent and kind hearted. He seemed to be going through the motions and was looking for someone to center him. Someone who really understood him the person, not the basketball player. When he met Iris he knew she was the one, but their timing couldn't have been more wrong. Life just kept pulling them apart.

My favorite quote was when August responded what position he would play Iris on his team he said "Center. I'd play you at the five. If you were mine, you'd be at the center of my life."
I mean can we swoon any harder. This was one of the few brief encounters they had that was pivotal. This story was sad yet beautiful. The author did a good job of allowing you to feel these characters.

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Block Shot (Hoops Book 2)

The one that got away....until

First of all I didn't want to read this book. I was ready for Kenan's story. Jared seemed so dry in August's book. However, I couldn't have been more wrong. This story wrecked me, and I enjoyed every minute of it. Jared was not a people person. He believed that most people had ill intentions and would find a way to fail you, so he tried to limit personal interactions. He was severely lacking in the feelings department. That trait is what made him a killer agent. He was ruthless and did what was needed to secure his clients and to gain them the best deals possible. All his guards were compromised when it came to one woman...fellow agent Banner Morales. He was determined to get her back because she was his equinox.

Banner, sweet Banner was not ready for the bulldozer aka Jared. After not speaking for years once they crossed paths she couldn't deny their connection and wanted to avoid him at all costs. Jared wasn't having it and he bulldozed all the walls she had up to protect herself and her heart. Banner was a killer with a heart and that is how she was a successful agent. Banner was so beautiful inside and out. She loved with no bounds. Even when she made a mistake she was still beyond loyal to her friend. I am full on #teambanner

I was so happy Banner was finally able to live her life on her own terms. Choosing the passionate love she deserved. I was happy for Jared letting his walls down and choosing to love the woman that was made for them. This book was so good. It's a real showcase of loyalty, friendship, love, and sacrifice.

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Hook Shot (Hoops Book 3)

A shot worth shooting!
OMG! All of these books in this series were amazing! I loved every last one. This one wrecked me just as much as the others, maybe even more.

Lotus, after all she had been through was the picture of bravery. Her moments of self doubt, pain, and insecurity were very present, but she refused to let them consume her. Mimi's love and the teachings she shared, withheld her through every storm. When things went bleak she changed her behavior and got help. She was only 25 with the most beautiful fight in her spirit. Her passion for those she loved was intensely amazing. Her past led her to make some painfully mature decisions, sacrificing when things were going beautifully right for her. Lotus was the true heroine of this story. She made everyone around her better, even those undeserving.

Kenan was a special man. Reserved and guarded to most. Loyal to those he chose to love. Completely wide open to Lotus. He had a rough few years, but was doing his best to move past them. I loved how he loved his daughter. His willingness to do what was best for her mentally. In the end he found a love with Lotus that was flawed, but perfectly beautiful for them. The passion, love, and respect they had for each other was off the charts. His openness with Lo was what everyone wants, well maybe me lol. His beautiful love notes resonated deeply with me. As a lover of words....his eagerness to share love in words was everything.
It may have seemed like their HEA was delayed, but it felt like perfect timing to me.

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3.) Muted Hopelessness Series by Love Belvin

My Muted Love (Muted Hopelessness #1)

Blurred lines
Omg I know this book was meant to be a cliff hanger, but I still feel like I have no idea what went on with these characters. Ms. Belvin is the master of character development and I know there is more to come, but I was left unsure of what happened to get them to their present life.

Tori was broken, poor, and guarded when she stepped onto the BSU campus. She felt like she had no one to rely on...no support from back home. On top of that the people on this prestigious campus were "mean humans," as she put it. She was there to pursue boxing, in hopes of it turning into an opportunity for her. I wrestled with this character because I wanted to know more about her. As the layers peeled back, I felt so bad for her. The situation she was thrust in barely left her with basic necessities and I was pissed for her. On top of that she seemed like she had a lot to offer, but life trials kept her wanting to be invisible because that was familiar, easier.

Ashton had me perplexed and mad. He was hot and cold at best and I just wanted him to do better. He was the Quarterback of the football team, 3.8 GPA, tutored for fun, was stupid rich and was THE man on campus. It seemed as if he was unable to make choices in his personal life...He was fine putting on a facade . I just I didn't like him at all, I can't stand fakeness. He seemed to feel sorry for Tori and initially it did feel like pity, but it turned into something else along the way. I was confused as to what he really wanted and I know Tori was too.

Off to the next book and hopefully some clarity.

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Our Muted Recklessness (Muted Hopelessness #2)

Reckless love
Listen!!!! The roller coaster of emotions this book took me through. It's 4:11am and I have binged this book like it was a series on Netflix. It was that good, I am that invested. Just wow.
Tori, really came into her own in this book. I felt like I wanted to understand her more in the last book, but we got all of that and more in this book. I'm overwhelmed by her plight. Her childhood was tragic, then after finding her passion with boxing, so many losses in life. I felt where the story was going because Tori and Ashton were so reckless, but the curveballs that were thrown haphazardly I was just not ready for. Tori blossomed into womanhood, but was still so very green. She struggled with both understanding and articulating her feelings, but she tried for Ashton. They were extremely complicated and the uncertainty of their futures seemed to keep them from communicating real feelings which seemed to stall the real communication they would need later on.
Ashton, sigh. I guess I liked him more this time around. He still had some fboy tendencies that I wasn't feeling. I don't think he understood that HIS actions caused Tori's uncertainty and had her grasping at straws to guard her heart. By that same token he was in deep!I just wanted him to handle the situation better and truly be real with everyone about his feelings. It all seemed to be a little too late and ended horribly.
I will close with saying Norma Jean had me tight. I don't know how Ashton didn't feel her petty claws were out.
I'm so glad I chose to wait for all the books to be released, because there is absolutely no way I could wait. Off to the next book to wreck me some more.

Our Reckless Hope (Muted Hopelessness #3)

Happy Humans
Wow this book has left me speechless. Ms. Belvin you are the Queen of second chance lovers!

Tori, sensitive, brave, giving, boss a$# Tori grew immensely in this book. Although, she was a talented fighter we experienced her in the toughest fight of her life, fighting for love, for the family and life she deserved. Tori is definitely one of my favorite characters in the LB universe because she truly learned from her past. I was so confused by her actions in the first book, but I now realize she was just a confused kid that was scared of rejection. Her feelings were so big for Ashton and because of his complicated relationship with Aivery she did not understand that he had already chose her. She literally did not understand that their love was mutual. After reuniting with Ashton she realized that she made the wrong decision, but Tori had really worked on herself and was ready to this time walk through the fire with him. And that is exactly what sis did. She took so many lumps on the chin. She humbled herself almost too much, but she kept her eye on the prize and her heart open. I cried a few times for her. She is the epitome of beautifully flawed.

Ashton, I can finally say I kind of liked him in this book. We finally got to see him real, raw and in his element. His life story broke me down. He had so many years where he was just existing and not living and it was hard to see his larger than life personality muted. When he sat on that bed for hours processing, barely speaking, my heart broke for him and Tori. That scene was so damn heart wrenching, I'm tearing up now as I type this. The pain was palpable. The way it all unfolded was so climatic, but I was so mad at Ashton, yet again with the way he handled it. When he shared his secret, he expected her to accept it and move on but he did not extend that same grace when both of their news was equally earth shattering. I wanted him to understand how Tori was stomping down those old insecurities in every interaction for him, for them. His love for her remained clear, not perfect, but it was unwaveringly clear that he refused to lose her.

The flipped situation was not lost on me and put Tori's past feelings in perspective for Ashton. It was also beyond messy, but brilliant work for Ms. Belvin to bring that full circle.

I am not ready to let these characters go. I was impressed with Ms. Wanda, I felt like she mothered them both and guided them in the right direction. The grace she showed Tori was so beautiful. I wanted just a little bit more of Jimmy, because he was the first person in Ashton's family to accept Tori. The way Ms. Belvin sneakily tied the experience of past sub characters in this book was unmatched, pure genius. As a reader I got to experience those situations from another angle, I mean flawlessly executed.

These two really stole my heart! Everytime I read another series I feel like they are my new favorites. The real truth is Ms. Belvin is my favorite. She knocks it out of the park everytime.

2.) The Sun Series by Rae Lyse

These are 3 standalone books in which they highlight different characters and I loved every single book.

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Saving Sunflower-(Sun Book 1)
Love Triumphs
This book surprised me. I would say it's more on the urban side, but I enjoyed every minute of it. At first I couldn't stand Dominic, he just felt wild, irresponsible, aloof, and annoying. As the layers peeled back I realized he was just surviving the best way he knew how. He was definitely making some irresponsible decisions, trying to be responsible for those around him. In truth he was a stand up guy that didn't understand that he had other options. Along his journey into pursuing rap he inadvertently met a friend....Claudette. From the first day they met he realized she was a hustler, all legit though. She saved him from his own ignorance with knowledge she gained from one of her many hustles. After that he trusted her and had to keep her close. He was enamoured with her, but tried to keep her at arms length because he didn't feel worthy of being with her. Sweet Claudette was so innocent, naive, smart, beautiful inside and out. When Nic blew into her life like a hurricane she felt swept up in his storm instead of shielding herself from his storm. She was drawn to him, just as he was to her and it meant everything to her. I ain't gone hold y'all like this is a fairy tale love because it was not. Nic was deep in the streets and did not know any other way. Clo helped him with his music and tried to help him be more professional, but his past kept interfering with their future. There were a few times I was thinking run away hard and fast Clo, but she was loyal. Their childhoods were different, but the commonalities between them made it easy to understand why they were drawn to each other. As this friendship...as this love unfolded it was not traditional. It was hard, challenging, but so beautiful. Definitely worth a read.

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The Endgame (Sun Book 2)
Young, complicated love
Omg Jade and Josiah tried to take me out. It was so good and I honestly did not want to let them go. Jade was a single mother just doing her best to take care of her daughter and graduate college. Jo was a star football player that had one foot in college and one foot back home. Their paths crossed one night and both of their worlds were forever changed. Jo was enthralled with Jade and he loved everything about her. This story is hard to review because of the layers. My heart hurt for Jo because he was so young, yet he was responsible for the well being of so many people. His mother was there, but she was irresponsible and definitely not in tune with his educational needs. She didn't realize it but her actions negatively impacted Jo and Nic.
I understood why Jade was so conflicted because she did not want to add to his burden. I felt her side deeply. I think she definitely approached their relationship wrong, but the connection he had with her and her daughter was unmatched. It was beautiful and changed my perception of Jo. She was young though and was just trying to balance having a young life and bring a mother.
Jo was a street kid with a past that haunted him and he had the weight of the world on his shoulders trying to live out a dream for those around him. He found solace with Jade and Journey and although there was so much chaos to navigate, loving them was easy. I could easily read more books about this family.

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Bunny (The Sun Book 3)

The layers of love
Desmond was introduced in a previous book as a loyal friend to Dominic and Josiah. Desmond aka Dezzy had a rough upbringing where he was exposed to situations even an adult shouldn't have to experience. It forced him to make adult decisions and to grow up before he should've had to. Even though he was rough around the edges he was a giver, a nurturer. He paid attention to details and his Loved ones always felt seen, protected, and cared for. He met his Bunny aka Logan when they were kids and she was running from an estranged relationship with her aunt and an absent mother. He made sure that he was her family.

Bunny was neglected as a child. The sweet girl took refuge with her neighbors Dezzy and his Grandma because they were the only ones that showed her love. Bunny and Dezzy were joined at the hip and they had an undeniable connection. Dezzy made sure she progressed in life even when he couldn't. Eventually he made a decision that she was too good for him and she deserved better. Bunny tried to let go and for 2 years she lost sight of who she was because Bunny would always belong to Dezzy and she had to separate herself.

This book is so beautifully layered. The author takes her time and truly allows you to understand the thought process of the characters, why they feel the way they feel, and to feel the connections between them. My heart broke as Dezzy had set backs and he tried to push Bunny away, but was slowly opening up to his feelings and that softer side of him was everything.

Ms. Lyse is an author author. Her background in social work makes so much sense and that knowledge is weaved through out all of her stories. After I read the sunflower series, I went searching for more books and realized that she only has those two. Again the way that she develops characters is next level, especially for a new author and this book didn't disappoint.

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1) The Grip Trilogy Box Set by Kennedy Ryan

This is three books, in a box set. Keep in mind you are in for a long read.
Real love
The most amazing series I have read this year. I loved it so much I went back and reviewed each book individually because it was just that good.

This trilogy starts with "Flow," in this book two young adults are trying to figure out life. Grip is a struggling artist, a poet turned rapper. Bristol is a privileged college student trying to find her place in her talented Family. When they meet they have an instant connection. However, Grip happens to be best friends with Bristol's brother and does his best to avoid this insane connection. They end up spending most of her trip together and the attraction builds. One careful night on a Ferris wheel both of their lives change forever. They share things they have never shared with anyone and finally they kiss. Grip knew that he wouldn't ever let her go, he just had to get her to agree. They later connect on the beach and make promises to try a long distance relationship. The insane connection they built over a few days was ripped apart when Grips not quite girlfriend comes through making outlandish claims. That situation and her parents terrible marriage makes Bristol fight to protect her heart.

In "Grip," I was blown away by well Grip. This story takes place 8 years after the first book. He is now Bristol's artist at her and her brother's new record label. This was the book I fell in love with Grip. He was by no means perfect, but he loved Bristol perfectly. While he kept doing him, he was very clear that he would drop everything to be with her. I could literally feel his heartbreak as Bristol continued to push him away.
Bristol put up a strong facade, but she was living a scared life. Slowly crumbling internally as she pushed away the only man she ever loved. She was a shell of a woman refusing to become her mother. The only way she could avoid it was by not allowing herself to love at all. Grip was on track to be a megastar, she was helping get there and she didn't trust that she would be enough for him. It was sad really. She sends Grip through so many unnecessary highs and lows that finally He stops fighting for her. Once the tables are turned she starts to unravel and feels some of the heartbreak she has bestowed upon Grip. She was a real bi$%# in most of this story.
Anyway even though Grip tries to move on, the heart wants what the heart wants and he is deeply in love with Bristol and even if she won't be with him he can't fake a relationship. After a rough night and Grip of course is there for Bristol she lets her guard down and they decide to give each other a chance. Well Bristol agrees, because Grip is already heads over heels. This love story turns into a thought provoking one as the struggles of being in an interracial relationship are exposed. Grip and Bristol just want to finally enjoy their love together, but neither one of their families are fully onboard. The world feels like Grip is a sellout, regardless of the amount of love, time, and money he pours into his community. It's wild. This book forever changed my personal views. As a black woman I truly understand the spite, the pain, the lack of appreciation we feel when black men choose another race. However, there is a difference from finding your one and refusing women that look like you. Grip was open to love period. For him it was about the connection he felt to Bristol's spirit and it was beautiful. I want that for my children, to be able to love with no bounds. To find that person that will lift them up, support them, and walk alongside the fire with them. Bristol was that for Grip and Mrs. Ryan truly opened my eyes to that importance.

The story of them finally connecting was so beautiful and I didn't think it could get any more beautiful. I was drastically proven wrong in "Still." This book exposed me to unconditional love, something I can't say I've ever really felt. This book chronicles Grip and Bristol finally living as a couple. Bristol, gosh she became one of my favorite characters of all time. She was heartbreakingly real. Bristol moved to New York with Grip as he pursued a college course that was a huge part of his philanthropy. Their lives would forever change. Again their love is tested as his mentor shares his ugly views on interracial love. Everything he thought he knew was questionable. It's hard to write, but they get married and Bristol wants so badly to be the mother of his children. Grip is steadfast that if it never happens he will still love her and will enjoy growing old with her. I mean a truly supportive king. When they are finally blessed with a baby they are on cloud 9. Then their world comes tumbling down and they are forced to make decisions no one should have to. After their hearts are broken Bristol is struggling to live. Everything seems to pale in comparison to her loss. Grip is trying so hard to save her, but he is grieving too. It's beyond sad. His words finally resonate with her and they find a way to move forward together.
I read a review that said after you read a Kennedy Ryan novel you are forever changed. Your outlook on life is different and I felt that deeply!

Check out my Honorable Mentions below:

These books are extremely different from each other and I enjoyed them all.

Beneath the Stars by AL. Jackson

Prior Affair by Christina C. Jones

Free Game and What You’ve been Missing by Kema B

Happy reading in 2022!