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Mr. Take Me As I Am: Baes of Juneteenth
He needs her…She wants him…What could go wrong?
Cameo Rawlings, the sexy new CEO of Palmer Innovations is determined to represent the city and The Mr. Black Organization with class. With his not-so-pristine past, it was imperative that he succeed in raising awareness of the rich Black culture of the city. He was going to need a polished look and a professional event planner to make the Juneteenth celebration a success. He knows who he needs, but…the last encounter with the woman was less than pleasant.
Syndia James wants the Manager of City Cultural Events position. As one of the city event planners, she needs something big to put her over the top. The Juneteenth celebration could be her ticket to the position of her dreams. Only, she had to work with Cameo Rawlings, with his Take Me As I Am or don’t take me at all attitude. Hell, she was going to have to forget that disastrous blind date and play nice to get what she wants.
Working together creates a sensuous atmosphere that neither knew existed. Cameo learns Syndia’s sassy, sophisticated way is the inspiration he needs. Syndia soon realizes Cameo’s arrogant, take-charge way is the love that she wants.
In the Baes of Juneteenth multi-author series, we invite you to journey to different cities to celebrate Juneteenth with the men of Mr. Black, an organization honoring Black love, Black culture, and Black history.
Cameo Rawlings, the sexy new CEO of Palmer Innovations is determined to represent the city and The Mr. Black Organization with class. With his not-so-pristine past, it was imperative that he succeed in raising awareness of the rich Black culture of the city. He was going to need a polished look and a professional event planner to make the Juneteenth celebration a success. He knows who he needs, but…the last encounter with the woman was less than pleasant.
Syndia James wants the Manager of City Cultural Events position. As one of the city event planners, she needs something big to put her over the top. The Juneteenth celebration could be her ticket to the position of her dreams. Only, she had to work with Cameo Rawlings, with his Take Me As I Am or don’t take me at all attitude. Hell, she was going to have to forget that disastrous blind date and play nice to get what she wants.
Working together creates a sensuous atmosphere that neither knew existed. Cameo learns Syndia’s sassy, sophisticated way is the inspiration he needs. Syndia soon realizes Cameo’s arrogant, take-charge way is the love that she wants.
In the Baes of Juneteenth multi-author series, we invite you to journey to different cities to celebrate Juneteenth with the men of Mr. Black, an organization honoring Black love, Black culture, and Black history.
108 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 14, 2023
45 people are currently reading
81 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
December 13, 2023
Story was a bit corny….. The Narration by Winston saved the story for me.
June 14, 2023
I'll take him
My my my, yes ma'am, I was willing to take Cameo as he was... Syndia was one lucky lady, and Cameo hit the jackpot with this one. The story overall had many aspects to explore with the insta-romance, the history behind each cities Juneteenth installment, and the plot for this story was spectacular.
My my my, yes ma'am, I was willing to take Cameo as he was... Syndia was one lucky lady, and Cameo hit the jackpot with this one. The story overall had many aspects to explore with the insta-romance, the history behind each cities Juneteenth installment, and the plot for this story was spectacular.
January 2, 2024
This is my first book by Iris Boling and it’s a nice intro to her work. I will definitely read more from her.
February 19, 2025
another 2.5… maybe i should stop reading novellas
June 23, 2025
They had beef… now they got chemistry. Cameo’s all swagger and “take me or leave me.” Syndia? Sassy, smart, and not here for the ego but babyyy, the tension between them? Undeniable.
Iris Bolling gave us grown vibes, career goals, second chances, and a slow burn that burns.
They might’ve started off on the wrong foot but fate, ambition, and that heat had other plans.
Iris Bolling gave us grown vibes, career goals, second chances, and a slow burn that burns.
They might’ve started off on the wrong foot but fate, ambition, and that heat had other plans.
December 11, 2023
A love story with the importance of Juneteenth wrapped up in it.
August 13, 2023
Hot and heavy
Cameo and syndia were just what the other needed. Someone who tried to set Syndia up got busted and it all aligned with her desire. Cameo was no slouch but she brought out the best in him. Great read..the author knocked this out of the park
Cameo and syndia were just what the other needed. Someone who tried to set Syndia up got busted and it all aligned with her desire. Cameo was no slouch but she brought out the best in him. Great read..the author knocked this out of the park
June 16, 2023
Each of these anthologies impart more and more of our sacred history, thank you!
Cameo and Syndia did not start off playing things cautiously which led to a connection between them that proved to be unbreakable! To say politics makes for strange bedfellows in this story is an understatement! It spotlighted how those in the so called majority culture threw their privilege around to gain and maintain power! With LT as Mayor and JD as President, they show how much can be accomplished when you allow what you know versus who you know to rule the day. It never occurred to me that in Richmond, VA was the main auction block for the sale of our ancestors and I am glad it was incorporated in both the Juneteenth celebration and the site of President Harrison's presidential library!!! I must again thank each of you authors for revealing to us all of this hidden history of the struggle of our ancestors to forge a place for all of us to thrive and continue to rise!!! I like the statement in this story that ended by saying "those who enslaved our people did not know our worth"!!!! Thank you again for a beautiful love story chocked full of history that I pray will serve to change how we as a people see our significance in this world as much, much more than what we are led to believe about ourselves!!! Great job Mrs. Bollings a truly great job indeed. I hope you develop this story further.
Cameo and Syndia did not start off playing things cautiously which led to a connection between them that proved to be unbreakable! To say politics makes for strange bedfellows in this story is an understatement! It spotlighted how those in the so called majority culture threw their privilege around to gain and maintain power! With LT as Mayor and JD as President, they show how much can be accomplished when you allow what you know versus who you know to rule the day. It never occurred to me that in Richmond, VA was the main auction block for the sale of our ancestors and I am glad it was incorporated in both the Juneteenth celebration and the site of President Harrison's presidential library!!! I must again thank each of you authors for revealing to us all of this hidden history of the struggle of our ancestors to forge a place for all of us to thrive and continue to rise!!! I like the statement in this story that ended by saying "those who enslaved our people did not know our worth"!!!! Thank you again for a beautiful love story chocked full of history that I pray will serve to change how we as a people see our significance in this world as much, much more than what we are led to believe about ourselves!!! Great job Mrs. Bollings a truly great job indeed. I hope you develop this story further.
June 20, 2023
Mr. Black Richmond, Cameo Rawlings, rounded out the East Coast Kings nicely. It was wonderful seeing this character who has appeared in other Iris Bolling books. Like all her books when the men and women, who are meant to be together, they know it immediately. It was no different for Cameo and his lady love Syndia "Syn" James. There chemistry was fantastic. Like all Iris Bolling female characters Syndia was strong, outspoken and did not suffer fools lightly. Dillon Moore learned his lesson messing with her..lol
I loved their Juneteenth celebration that was set up in the exact area where the slave auctions took place. A moving way to acknowledge the atrocities of the past and to show how much we have overcome and persevered. Added bonus was Syndia's vision to build the Presidential Library for the first black President at this location.
It was also wonderful to see past characters President and First Lady Harrison, LT and Sapphire Palmer, Raymond "Mint" Mintus and Ebony Sullivan.
My only wish is that the book was longer.
I loved their Juneteenth celebration that was set up in the exact area where the slave auctions took place. A moving way to acknowledge the atrocities of the past and to show how much we have overcome and persevered. Added bonus was Syndia's vision to build the Presidential Library for the first black President at this location.
It was also wonderful to see past characters President and First Lady Harrison, LT and Sapphire Palmer, Raymond "Mint" Mintus and Ebony Sullivan.
My only wish is that the book was longer.
June 29, 2023
Cameo and Syndia!!!
This was an enjoyable story to read. Cameo and Syndia had instant chemistry from their very first meeting. It wasn't long before they gave into their passions. A misunderstanding caused them to separate for a bit but Cameo was determined to pursue Syndia and he came up with the idea to have her help him plan the Juneteenth event. In his pursuit, he enlisted the connections that he had in the city which brought previous characters from other books into the storyline. I couldn't stand her ex, Dillon. Who does something crazy like he did? And a councilman at that. He was just awful. I also couldn't stand the deviousness of Syndia's supervisor because she was riding on the coattails of others and trying to sabotage Syndia's career when she couldn't come up with ideas of her own. I loved the humor of the bartender at the bar where Cameo and Syndia first met. She deserves to meet someone too. The history behind where the Juneteenth celebration is held brought out a special aspect to the story and showed our rich history. This was a great book to read and I highly recommend it.
This was an enjoyable story to read. Cameo and Syndia had instant chemistry from their very first meeting. It wasn't long before they gave into their passions. A misunderstanding caused them to separate for a bit but Cameo was determined to pursue Syndia and he came up with the idea to have her help him plan the Juneteenth event. In his pursuit, he enlisted the connections that he had in the city which brought previous characters from other books into the storyline. I couldn't stand her ex, Dillon. Who does something crazy like he did? And a councilman at that. He was just awful. I also couldn't stand the deviousness of Syndia's supervisor because she was riding on the coattails of others and trying to sabotage Syndia's career when she couldn't come up with ideas of her own. I loved the humor of the bartender at the bar where Cameo and Syndia first met. She deserves to meet someone too. The history behind where the Juneteenth celebration is held brought out a special aspect to the story and showed our rich history. This was a great book to read and I highly recommend it.
June 15, 2023
Take me as I am
This book was amazing. I loved this couple and getting more of LT and Phire. Cameo was about his business and made sure to get to know Syndia mentally before he got to know her physically. This couple had such a strong vibe and chemistry from hello. I loved that this book talked about the significance of the location for the Juneteenth celebration and the focus on being taken for who and what you are without having to compromise your beliefs and integrity just to get ahead or get the attention from someone who only wants to use you or change you. I cannot wait to see what comes next from this author.
This book was amazing. I loved this couple and getting more of LT and Phire. Cameo was about his business and made sure to get to know Syndia mentally before he got to know her physically. This couple had such a strong vibe and chemistry from hello. I loved that this book talked about the significance of the location for the Juneteenth celebration and the focus on being taken for who and what you are without having to compromise your beliefs and integrity just to get ahead or get the attention from someone who only wants to use you or change you. I cannot wait to see what comes next from this author.
June 16, 2023
Never Disappointed!!!
I can honestly say that I'm NEVER disappointed with anything that Iris Bolling writes and this story is no different. I have waited patiently for Cameo to step into the spotlight for years and him becoming Mr. Black( Richmond) was the perfect way to do it.
I love the chemistry between Cameo and Syndia and the fact that although there was a small hiccup in the beginning, they didn't let that stop them from going after what they wanted. I'm pretty sure that this was just a small sample size of a bigger picture when it comes to this particular couple and I am here for it all.
I can't wait to read the rest of the books in this series.
I can honestly say that I'm NEVER disappointed with anything that Iris Bolling writes and this story is no different. I have waited patiently for Cameo to step into the spotlight for years and him becoming Mr. Black( Richmond) was the perfect way to do it.
I love the chemistry between Cameo and Syndia and the fact that although there was a small hiccup in the beginning, they didn't let that stop them from going after what they wanted. I'm pretty sure that this was just a small sample size of a bigger picture when it comes to this particular couple and I am here for it all.
I can't wait to read the rest of the books in this series.
December 1, 2023
Mr. Take Me As I Am by Iris Bolling is a quick and easy read - the audiobook is just about 2 hours.
The story is engaging with funny and captivating characters.
Though short, Bolling takes no shorts on the story - there are many layers and I can tell she’s a great writer. This is my first read from her and I skipped the other books in this series, so I’m reading it a little out of order, but that doesn’t seem to affect this story at all.
I’m impressed and will look for more books from this author.
Spice: 🥵
Final rating: 3.75 stars
Content Warnings:
Moderate: Classism and Sexual content
Minor: Infidelity, Cursing, Child abuse, Addiction, and Abandonment
The story is engaging with funny and captivating characters.
Though short, Bolling takes no shorts on the story - there are many layers and I can tell she’s a great writer. This is my first read from her and I skipped the other books in this series, so I’m reading it a little out of order, but that doesn’t seem to affect this story at all.
I’m impressed and will look for more books from this author.
Spice: 🥵
Final rating: 3.75 stars
Content Warnings:
Moderate: Classism and Sexual content
Minor: Infidelity, Cursing, Child abuse, Addiction, and Abandonment
June 21, 2023
As always I was not disappointed with this Iris Bolling anthology. It was interesting, engaging and always leaving you with something to think about.
I was glad to see that Cameo Rawlings , who I encountered in the Book “Phire”had done well being left in charge of LT’s company. Syndia, for whatever reason had to grow on me. Once she did I could see how she and Cameo were going to be a perfect match.
My only complaint was that it was short 😌 but I get it. Interesting concept for Juneteenth. I look forward to reading the rest of the books in
the “Baes of Juneteenth “ series.
I was glad to see that Cameo Rawlings , who I encountered in the Book “Phire”had done well being left in charge of LT’s company. Syndia, for whatever reason had to grow on me. Once she did I could see how she and Cameo were going to be a perfect match.
My only complaint was that it was short 😌 but I get it. Interesting concept for Juneteenth. I look forward to reading the rest of the books in
the “Baes of Juneteenth “ series.
July 8, 2023
Syndia and Cameo!! 🔥🔥
Yes…The Point of It All is That I Love You…So, Take Me As I Am!! And there you have it! In spite of everything that happened, the good and the bad, it still came down to Take Me As I Am for both Syndia and Cameo!!
There was a lot of drama and romance on one side, with the other side infused with Black History, Black Culture, politics and action!! This series keeps getting better and better with each new story to be told!! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and series, and I highly recommend it!! Kudos, Iris!! 💜
Yes…The Point of It All is That I Love You…So, Take Me As I Am!! And there you have it! In spite of everything that happened, the good and the bad, it still came down to Take Me As I Am for both Syndia and Cameo!!
There was a lot of drama and romance on one side, with the other side infused with Black History, Black Culture, politics and action!! This series keeps getting better and better with each new story to be told!! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and series, and I highly recommend it!! Kudos, Iris!! 💜
August 9, 2023
Beautiful Powerful Story
I enjoyed Syndia and Cameo's romance, but I loved the message woven throughout their story more. We may have started as slaves but look at us now. We helped build this nation into the powerhouse tgat it is. There is no need to hang our heads down in shame, buy into other folks views of us, or be held back by our origins. Be proud of your accomplishments and always be true to yourself. Expect people to take you as you are and do the same for them in return.
I enjoyed Syndia and Cameo's romance, but I loved the message woven throughout their story more. We may have started as slaves but look at us now. We helped build this nation into the powerhouse tgat it is. There is no need to hang our heads down in shame, buy into other folks views of us, or be held back by our origins. Be proud of your accomplishments and always be true to yourself. Expect people to take you as you are and do the same for them in return.
January 27, 2024
I have the book and the audiobook, but I wanted to hear Winston James narrate.
I had been hoping Cameo got a book. I only wish it had been longer. He had LT's back for so long, I expected more story. I did appreciate the way Cameo romanced Syndia.
There was a good amount of intrigue in the book. I would have loved more detail about the repercussions from Dylan and Jane's behavior. I had a scenario in my head with a whole Lassiter takedown, or at least All and Tucker.
A quick read with great narration and a good story. I just wanted more of it.
I had been hoping Cameo got a book. I only wish it had been longer. He had LT's back for so long, I expected more story. I did appreciate the way Cameo romanced Syndia.
There was a good amount of intrigue in the book. I would have loved more detail about the repercussions from Dylan and Jane's behavior. I had a scenario in my head with a whole Lassiter takedown, or at least All and Tucker.
A quick read with great narration and a good story. I just wanted more of it.
October 11, 2023
Mr. Take Me As I Am
This was a love story about SyndiaJames and Cameo Rawlings. They met on a blind date and each was smitten upon meeting. They attempted to play it cool but were unsuccessful because of the attraction. Subsequently he hired her to plan his Nineteenth celebration since he was named Mr Black for Richmond. Once that was completed that led to their happily ever after.
This was a love story about SyndiaJames and Cameo Rawlings. They met on a blind date and each was smitten upon meeting. They attempted to play it cool but were unsuccessful because of the attraction. Subsequently he hired her to plan his Nineteenth celebration since he was named Mr Black for Richmond. Once that was completed that led to their happily ever after.
December 2, 2023
I wanted to like this book more but I didn’t really connect with the characters like I would have liked to. It felt longer than a novella because it dragged. It started off really sexy and aggressive, then stopped as the characters really tried to show their connection to their community and culture. It took a bit longer to explain the real deal behind the broken engagement and it could have been clarified much earlier.
It was just okay for me.
It was just okay for me.
June 14, 2023
Never disappointed
I could not put the book down. I tried but it really good. I got to see old friends from previous book and enjoyed a few new ones. The story line was excellent and I enjoyed fromthe beginning Cameo and Syndia falling in love . Who's next Ebony or maybe Mint (lol).
I could not put the book down. I tried but it really good. I got to see old friends from previous book and enjoyed a few new ones. The story line was excellent and I enjoyed fromthe beginning Cameo and Syndia falling in love . Who's next Ebony or maybe Mint (lol).
June 14, 2023
Love of Juneteenth
I really liked the love centered around the celebration of Juneteenth. First the chemistry between Cameo and Syndria was sizzling and it brought them together by work on a fantastic celebration of Juneteenth. I enjoyed (and whenever I do) hearing descriptions of my city and places I know well.
I really liked the love centered around the celebration of Juneteenth. First the chemistry between Cameo and Syndria was sizzling and it brought them together by work on a fantastic celebration of Juneteenth. I enjoyed (and whenever I do) hearing descriptions of my city and places I know well.
June 15, 2023
A+++++
Cameo’s story was simply amazing! Of course I want more. For a short story, this book had drama, laughter, history lessons and romance. I loved how the planning team worked together as well as the Mr. Black organizations.
I highly recommend! Can’t wait to hear more from Cameo and Syndia!
Cameo’s story was simply amazing! Of course I want more. For a short story, this book had drama, laughter, history lessons and romance. I loved how the planning team worked together as well as the Mr. Black organizations.
I highly recommend! Can’t wait to hear more from Cameo and Syndia!
June 17, 2023
Wonderful love story ❤️
This is a wonderful love story! I enjoyed the instant attraction & passion between our main characters, along with the drama and other cast of characters. The message is in the title and has more meaning behind it. To all my fellow romance readers, I think you will enjoy 😊
This is a wonderful love story! I enjoyed the instant attraction & passion between our main characters, along with the drama and other cast of characters. The message is in the title and has more meaning behind it. To all my fellow romance readers, I think you will enjoy 😊
June 18, 2023
Mr. Take Me As I Am
Cameo and Syndia was an instant sensual connection indeed. Dillion tried to railroad but as fate would have it, they got a redo. It was going back on track until another attempt by Dillion and added fuel with Ms. Rice but it didn't work. This was such a good story!
Cameo and Syndia was an instant sensual connection indeed. Dillion tried to railroad but as fate would have it, they got a redo. It was going back on track until another attempt by Dillion and added fuel with Ms. Rice but it didn't work. This was such a good story!
June 29, 2023
Cameo....yes!
Cameo was so smooth and laid back. He knew who was and what he was about. I like the fact that he didn't forget where he came from. It made him the man that he became, and he was exactly what Syndia needed. I love that Ms. Iris Bolling threw in a little suspense. She knows how make her characters come alive. Great read!!
Cameo was so smooth and laid back. He knew who was and what he was about. I like the fact that he didn't forget where he came from. It made him the man that he became, and he was exactly what Syndia needed. I love that Ms. Iris Bolling threw in a little suspense. She knows how make her characters come alive. Great read!!
July 5, 2023
Excellent read
Excellent read, I enjoyed the characters and storyline. Cameo and Syndia are a great match. This is their journey to love with a few adversaries along the way. I was pleased to catch up with several of the beloved characters from previous books written by this author. It’s always interesting with Mayor LT Palmer, his wife Sapphire and President Harrison.
Excellent read, I enjoyed the characters and storyline. Cameo and Syndia are a great match. This is their journey to love with a few adversaries along the way. I was pleased to catch up with several of the beloved characters from previous books written by this author. It’s always interesting with Mayor LT Palmer, his wife Sapphire and President Harrison.
July 27, 2023
A Perfect Title for this Book
Cameo and Syndia was perfect for one another and accepted each other for who they were. False accusations and a misunderstanding took place after they met. But when they came back together months later, it was as smooth as fine wine. Kudos to iris Bolling for showcasing love and wonderful friendships in this short story about Cameo.
Cameo and Syndia was perfect for one another and accepted each other for who they were. False accusations and a misunderstanding took place after they met. But when they came back together months later, it was as smooth as fine wine. Kudos to iris Bolling for showcasing love and wonderful friendships in this short story about Cameo.
August 5, 2023
Beautiful Story!!
Wow! Syndia and Cameo hit it off right from the start. Their live story is so beautiful. I loved everything about this story, except I wanted to find out what actually happened to Jane and Dillon! Those two are a piece of work. Thank you Iris Bolling, for a wonderful book!! ❤️🔥
Wow! Syndia and Cameo hit it off right from the start. Their live story is so beautiful. I loved everything about this story, except I wanted to find out what actually happened to Jane and Dillon! Those two are a piece of work. Thank you Iris Bolling, for a wonderful book!! ❤️🔥
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November 11, 2023Syndia and Cameo is soooo cute. The meet-cute, the chemistry and how down to earth he is. He defs have that big man energy but he's subtle with it and its seductive. Coz we all wwre like that bartender in the first chapter, no lie. I love their story and how they deal with her delirious ex. Gosh, the story is short but leaves you feeling warm and fuzzy.
March 21, 2024
Whew...my first Iris Bolling and my first intro to the Baes of Juneteenth books. I was not ready for the instant chemistry that Cameo and Syndia had from the beginning or the interruption from Dillon trying to rain on their parade. I'm glad Cameo came to his senses and went to get his woman! I love that we can incorporate Juneteenth and black love, cause this was a win.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews