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The Lassiter family consists of six precious gems and six true gentlemen. They are all blessed with good looks, charm, and a wonderful sense of self-worth. They know who they are and who they want.

Child number five, sexy, confident and fiercely loyal, Diamond Lassiter made her choice. She did not save herself for anyone less than a real man to teach her how to make love. When she met Zackary Davenport, there was no question in her mind, he was the one.

With arson connected to his last project, the only mission on Zackary Davenport’s mind was ensuring the new home development progressed without a hitch. Working against him was an unknown force that was out to destroy his name. The last thing on his mind was any woman that was after his heart. To that end Diamond Lassiter was trouble, and he knew it.

Revenge, family secrets and love will keep you engrossed as you wonder whose willpower will prevail.

321 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 23, 2012

52 people are currently reading
222 people want to read

About the author

Iris Bolling

50 books414 followers
Iris Bolling is an award-winning USA Today bestselling author of five series totaling over thirty romantic suspense novels. In addition to writing, she has produced and directed several books to film projects, and scriptwriting projects for other authors.

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5 stars
376 (77%)
4 stars
82 (16%)
3 stars
21 (4%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
Profile Image for Metris.
412 reviews
March 3, 2013
Teach Me was yet another awesome story written by Iris Bolling! Diamond & Zack story was so powerful...Diamond being very innocent to the love game chose Zack to teach her how to love since he was more experience; however Zack would be he student when he learn how to give his heart and love! GREAT GREAT GREAT Read.
Profile Image for MidnightAce.
189 reviews
March 12, 2013
Brace yourself for another series full of adventure, love of family and support, with some sexy, funny, intelligent men and some very strong smart women to keep them grounded!
Profile Image for Kim Walton.
Author 5 books36 followers
March 24, 2018
Hands down the best of 2018 for me in romance so far

This storyline, the Lassiter's, just carried me away. If I could give this book a ten I would. The sex scenes we're good and realistic. The dialogue was fresh, to the point with no lag. The book of Joshua is next on my list, his character stood out so strong that I'm itching to read his story.
Profile Image for Tamela.
Author 1 book9 followers
October 29, 2012
What a love story!!! Iris Bollings' style is addictive. WOW!!!
788 reviews4 followers
May 22, 2022
Who would have thunk it?

To say Diamond and Zack had some tumultuous times before getting to the altar is an understatement! It all began with Diamond assisting Zachary aka Zack Davenport to obtain what he needed to renew his drivers license. See following several terrorists attacks on this nation and the loss of thousands of American lives, rules were changed regarding what was needed to fly on commercial airplanes. Proper ID was part of those new rules and lacking that id meant Zack could not board the plane. Not boarding the plane at the allotted time meant Zack would miss out on badly needed investor funding for his impending project! Rather than thank Diamond for her assistance, Zack took every opportunity to disdain, disrespect and disregard her even after she declared her love for him. It took him almost losing her to who he thought he was losing her to - Grant Hutchison to make him realize he indeed loved Diamond. That part taken care of mostly, there was a plan afoot to bankrupt his company and destroy his reputation! While the college girlfriend from years prior (who dumped him when he did not choose the path to secure her future), was working with an old high school classmate (who was angry at Zack because he was in love with Zack) and Zack would not give him the time of day were plotting and planning his downfall, Joshua was actively putting in the work to ensure that did not happen. Into the fray comes the man Zack's ex married angry and hurt because throughout his marriage to the gold digger(Zack's ex), she taunted him by comparing him to Zack while belittling him as a man. That conniving gold digger also tried to pawn her husband's child off as Zack's child to extort money from him after her husband was injured and was no longer useful to his team or the NFL! It does not pay to go up against that Lassiter clan of which Diamond is one in fact she is one of the gems and the Lassiters do not play about family! All in all the plotters were caught and jailed, the innocent child driven to start the last fire because she wanted to help the man she did not know was her real dad to secure his misplaced revenge against, she was then taken into the hearts of the Davenports and Lassiters. Zack out of the goodness of his heart, provided for her future and paved the way for she and her dad to at some point reunite. Zack and Xavier will now have an opportunity to have a relationship with their clean and sober mother! Oh yeah, Zack was named Businessman of the year!!!!! So, so much is going on in this story that to report it all, would be once again tantamount to writing an already excellently written story all over again!!! I did so love Zack and Diamond's story!!!! Commando Joshua's dog and Lucy his ex CIA housekeeper are no joke for real though!!!!!!
Profile Image for Beverly.
767 reviews8 followers
January 12, 2023
OH MY!

I am so glad I stumbled across this first book of the Gems & Gents series, just as I was about to read book 1 of “An international Affair ( A Lassiter Wedding). It will definitely have to wait 😂❤️ I feel like I’m on the right track to some enjoyable reading

I really don’t know who had me laughing and shaking my head the most Zachary or Diamond. Although Diamond may have been a little younger then he was, she knew exactly how to handle Zachary Davenport on their very first meeting. After that things were a little challenging to say the least 😂. Zachary came off as a mean angry man, yet that didn’t seem to phase Diamond any in the least. I could not help but feel like Diamond had the upper hand being child number five of twelve of the Lassiter children, and having to deal with brothers who were just as tall and fierce as Zachery ❤️
Diamond had no idea that even though she wanted to be taught how to Love, she would be teaching some pretty good lessons herself.

Don’t won’t to spoil the read for others so I will say that I enjoyed this story so much. It had everything avoid romance no Al needed. Passion, conflict, drama, mystery with some interesting twists and turns.
I have totally fallen in love with the Lassiter family and I look forward to the reading the rest of the stories in this series. 🥰
634 reviews
June 25, 2019
The Lassiter family consists of six precious gems and six true gentlemen. They are all blessed with good looks, charm, and a wonderful sense of self-worth. They know who they are and who they want. Child number five, sexy, confident and fiercely loyal, Diamond Lassiter made her choice. She did not save herself for anyone less than a real man to teach her how to make love. When she met (real estate developer) Zackary Davenport, there was no question in her mind, he was the one. With arson connected to his last project, the only mission on Zackary Davenport’s mind was ensuring the new home development progressed without a hitch. Working against him was an unknown force that was out to destroy his name (ex-fiancée Celeste, her husband Terry/jealous because she was always throwing his accomplishments in her face, and former school friend Charles/who secretly loved him since school). The last thing on his mind was any woman that was after his heart since his fiancée left him when he didn’t go pro and came home to take care of his orphaned brother. To that end Diamond Lassiter was trouble, and he knew it. Revenge, family secrets and love will keep you engrossed as you wonder whose willpower will prevail.

Gets a little convoluted at the end with new cast of characters
800 reviews2 followers
December 30, 2022
Great book!

I really enjoyed this story and the characters were very entertaining. The story was full of intrigue and drama and a little love on the side. I love the chemistry between Zack and Diamond, it was so intense and smoking 🔥! The story line was so interesting that you did not want to put the book down. You think you have figured out who was after Zack and find out it was not who thought it was. The plot twist was mind blowing. I highly recommend this series to my fellow romance readers you will not be disappointed.
Profile Image for Sonya Wright.
20 reviews1 follower
March 21, 2018
Love and family

These are the key points of family but I lived Diamond’s faith in knowing the man for her. As women we sometimes do unrealistic things to attract the man instead of making them appreciate the catch and this book did exactly that explaining how you live through hurts and setbacks.
380 reviews1 follower
March 10, 2021
Diamond Lassiter and Zachary Davenport were meant to be. There was lost of drama in book. Someone was sabataging Zachary's construction project and he had to figure out why. Diamond was a kind caring person who set her sights on Zachary. He did not stand a chance. Her large family was very supportive of them. There are 6 female and 6 male children.
Profile Image for Rae Lewis-Thornton.
Author 4 books50 followers
September 30, 2018
Once I picked this book up I could not put it down. Read it in two days. I love the story line and look forward to reading the series. I always love when I get a new author. This was great mystery and romance wrapped into one
198 reviews
June 4, 2021
Kudos

As always Iris Bolling did not disappoint with this book! It has romance, suspense, intrigue and mystery all together in one. I hope Zack and Diamond's story line continues in future books. I truly enjoyed reading this book and can't wait to get the next book in this series.
30 reviews
June 14, 2021
Great reas

I like how the book kept me emotionally involved. I laughed and cried with Diamond and Zach. I would recommend this book to my family and friends. I enjoyed the book. The thing I didn’t like was the price. I guess since the pandemic the books went up. Ijs
Profile Image for Linda Epps - Dillon.
270 reviews5 followers
January 11, 2023
This was actually a reread for me since I am embarking on the whole Gems and Gents series. Iris Bolling knows how to keep you on your toes with her books. Enjoyed the characters, storyline and suspense.
15 reviews
July 20, 2024
Love this author

I am reading this series again and throughly enjoyed it. But after reading the whole series I got a little confused about the time line. When Samuel married Cynthia amber meeting Adam, how old is amber. Guess I will find out as I continue ue reading
Profile Image for Sherell Burns.
53 reviews3 followers
April 4, 2018
Great Read

This was my first book by the author and I’m officially hooked! Headed to immediately download the next book now.
Profile Image for Yvette P Carter.
210 reviews1 follower
June 10, 2021
Heart warming

Excellent read! The power of a good heart, patience, humility, understanding, and love can capture the true essence, and meaning of love. Well done!
1,024 reviews1 follower
July 8, 2021
Never disappoints

I loved Diamond and Zachary's story and all the stories in between. I enjoyed seeing how the Lassiter family came together. Can't wait for more.
164 reviews
October 3, 2021
Great read

I enjoyed the story. Because this is based in reality. How people you think you know will do things to hurt you for whatever reason.
4 reviews
January 15, 2022
Couldn't put it down, after the "lessons" began

This is the first book in the Gems & Genre series. It leaves you wanting to know more about the other family members
Profile Image for Kylar Hibbert.
73 reviews
April 3, 2022
hard to read

I usually love her book but this family seem unrealistic. Although I love for my books with touch of fantasy, this was too much for my taste.
109 reviews
November 8, 2022
Fighting for love.

Loved this story, fighting for the love of your life. Cannot wait to read the other story about the Lassiter family.
Profile Image for Sistar Tea.
294 reviews
June 2, 2012
Teach Me by Iris Bolling

Present And Accounted For, Ready For Class

We are first introduced to the Lassiter's in "The Heart Series" and now they are front and center in their own series, "The Gems and Gents." Did I forget to mention there is twelve of them Lassiter children? Readers from previous novels will be familiar with Joshua, Samuel and Pearl as they were key in "The Heart Series." The parents Joe and Sally Lassiter are a true testament to true love and have taught their children well. The brothers are true alpha males and take their responsibilities for their sisters very serious.

Zachary Davenport a typical dominating male blinded because of hurt, not having dealt with childhood issues. So much so that he can't recognize the gift horse staring him right in his mouth. Let me tell you it is funny to read about, you won't be able to help laughing out loud.  Zach is a true stand up guy who did what he had to, to take care of his little brother when their dad died. That alone will make you fall in love with him, trust me he as other attributes too.

Diamond Lassiter is cute, sassy and doesn't know the meaning of failure. When there is a chance meeting with Zachary its love at first sight, at least for Diamond that is. She sets her sights on Zach and winning his love is the ultimate prize. When she up and works for his construction company the games begin.

Class is in session see who will be the teacher’s pet and learn the meaning of true love. It is no secret that Iris Bolling is my favorite authors. I have all of her books and I have loved each and every one. If you have not read an Iris Bolling novel what are you waiting for? You are truly missing out on some great reads. Ms. Bolling is a literary genius and doesn't play any games when it comes to storylines: truly a gem in the industry. As always the men are true gentlemen, the kind of men you want to bring home to meet mama. The women are no nonsene take care of business, bring home the bacon and fry it it in a pan kind of women. The supporting characters are just as important as the main and it's a perfect fit in this book. Xavier (X-man) Zach’s little brother, has proven that the sacrifices made in his honor were not in vain. Sapphire aka Phire Diamond’s baby sister is a hand full and will keep the laughs rolling in. The Lassiter's, especially the parents, give that extra flair. These characters are so real you won't be able to help claiming one for yourself.

SiStar Tea
ARC Book Club Inc.
5 star rating
June 2012
176 reviews2 followers
September 26, 2016
Great Read

This was my first book by Iris Bollinger. I thoroughly enjoyed ever page. Teach Me had a great story line with the right touch of love, romance and suspense. I look forward to reading the other books in The Gems and Gents Series and other books by Iris Bollinger.
Profile Image for Carmen Blalock.
262 reviews15 followers
May 28, 2012
Love at first, is it something that is real? Do you go with the flow or fight it with everything that you got?

Zachary Davenport is the type of man who doesn't ask for anything, he tells you what he wants! When he was just a teenager his mother left him, his brother Xavier and his father. When he was in college his father died and he had the sole responsibility of taking care of Xavier and he wouldn't have it any other way, that is his family and that makes it automatic. When he has to come in contact with Diamond at the DMV while trying to renew his driver's license, just the touch of her hand sent an unwanted desire through him that he didn't understand or have time for. He didn't like the way that she stood her ground with him but at the same time he couldn't deny the attraction to her.

Introducing Diamond Lassiter, she is the fifth child of Joseph and Sally Lassiter's twelve children. Always considered the level-headed one who never ask for anything or needed anything, willing to help anyone who needed help and with the kindest heart and spirit around. While at work one day she has the pleasure to meet a very difficult, loud and overbearing customer named Zachary Davenport. Upon seeing him she knows in her heart of hearts that she is the one that has been destined to show this man what love is.

Through a series of events, Diamond became employed with Davenport Industries. She was a very professional woman but Zach just couldn't get over this strong desire that was troubling him regarding Diamond so he gave her a hard time every chance that he got. Because of her strong heart and extra strong work ethics, she was on a mission to break that wall around Zach's heart and make him love her like she loved him.

Teach Me is an excellent novel and an awesome start to this new series by Iris Bolling, The Gems & Gents Series. It also bring some of the characters from The Heart series, but you do not have to read them in order to understand what is going on here though I would highly recommend The Heart series. It gives you everything needed to love a book: strong characters, easy flow, great storyline and a desire to want more. I look forward to reading more of Iris Bolling works because she has a great heart and a vivid imagination!
Profile Image for Sharon.
45 reviews9 followers
June 2, 2012
n the Gems and Gents Series Kicking off , with Diamond Lassiter and Zachary Davenport If anyone was nervous about "Teach Me" not living up to the Heart Series u have nothing to worry about Miss Iris Bolling has done it again knocked it out the ballpark and than some..just like previous work her stellar writing will have you drawn in with the first page and until the last page. With the Lassiter Series you really to get to know the family not just Samuel and Joshua who we all love you get the History of the family also see how close all of them really are, also see what this crazy mixed up family is all about..this book made me cry laugh, even shocked how things turned out in the end..Diamond knew right away that Zachary was the man for her when they met in the DMV that meeting did not go over well..let just just say with Zachary he knew but fought what he was feeling because of how he felt about women he did not trust them at all that was being nice ,it came from his mom and hes ex fiance betrayal...so u know them two coming together wasnt going to be easy to say the least and i enjoyed the ride loved every mintue of it..love the chemistry between the two of them even when Zachary wasn't so nice to her there love and attraction could not be denied . them love scene was sexy sexy classy done just right...this is why i love Miss Iris she knows how to bring all the right elements into the books she right love the mystery about what is going on who is behind the scenes and when u find out the why's that will blow u away, another reason why i love reading her books they go deep with real life issues homes habbited to put the issue out there if one didnt not know about it learnt about it today with this be in not so in your face kind of way.. as i was saying before u really get the know the family and antics they be up too.. let just say joshua, samuel and Zachary will having you in tears lol...i so love the sister Sapphire now she is a riot cant wait until she gets own story her story i kind of want her with someone in the book hmmmm i know will be interesting she is a spit fire only 16... I Feel Miss iris Bolling kicked off her Gems and Gent Series the right way and i cant wait for more up coming books... job very well done..5+
Profile Image for Loretta.
Author 8 books62 followers
May 25, 2012
Having a solid family unit is something the Lassiter's can all boast about.

Readers of Iris Bolling's Heart Series got to know Samuel and Joshua, along with a couple of their sisters.

The focus in this particular new series titled Gems and Gents, is on Diamond Lassiter.

Beautiful, educated and open to life, Diamond is all about helping her family, yet she's missing something...

Meet Xavier Davenport: A handsome creature that sports neatly-kept dreads to accentuate his chocolate tone. He and Diamond are college buddies; an opportunity arises where her skills are required and he presents an irresistable offer.

Zackary Davenport is the man every woman wants but cannot capture. Tall, dark and striking, Zack carries that alpha male quality all over. He's lived a life of sacrifice without complaint and is seeing the fruits of his labor.

Joined together by Xavier to build up their company, Zack and Diamond must endure a major challenge: tolerating each other.

The Gems and Gents Series - Book One is centered around Zack and Diamond however, Iris Bolling has a knack for introducing new characters into her writing.

Not only has Bolling's writing voice strengthened post-Heart Series, it has branched out gracefully for her readers to embrace a new world. With Richmond, Virginia as the forefront of the setting, readers will fall easily into place as Bolling showcases local areas like Urbanna, Tappahannock and the nautical routes that are familiar. Residents and visitors will certainly appreicate the nods provided in the character's journeys.

Teach Me provides mystery, suspense, intrigue, drama, romance smartly packaged in top-notch fashion.

Bolling has her pen on the pulse of the literary world.
Profile Image for Locksie.
134 reviews47 followers
January 6, 2013
The Gems & Gents Series.

Author Iris Bolling promised her readers they would learn more about the Lassiter family whom appeared in her fan’s favorite “The Heart Series,” and she has kept her word. “The Gems & Gents” series has begun and the first book is “Teach Me” featuring Diamond Lassiter; “Gem” number five of the Lassiter family’s strong unit of 12 siblings.
Single, sexy and spiritual Diamond Lassiter knows what she wants and how to be patient and respectful. In affairs of the heart, she believes in waiting for the right man to come along. What she didn’t bargain for was love at first sight with a man who had no idea how to commit, and chooses to let his past baggage dictate his future.
Zack Davenport was not ready when love came knocking. Baggage from personal relationships pretty much built up a steel wall, keeping out anyone interested him. His one-track mind is all about business and protecting his younger brother Xavier. But underneath Zack’s tough exterior there is a glimmer, but is it enough to ignite a fury passion when he is asked to “Teach Me?”
Within the back drop of Davenport Industries love is brewing, but someone is looking to sabotage Zack and Xavier’s business, who is the culprit and will they succeed?
Wow!
Another excellent book by Iris Bolling who continues to perfect her craft, producing top-notch stories I am always excited to talk about. OK, I won’t give away any spoilers here, but for those who’ve never read any of her books now is the time to jump on board! By the way, I will now refer to an Iris Bolling book as ‘A Bolling Romance’ because my emotions always reach a boiling point when reading about some of her characters…Zack, Zack, Zack!!
Recommended.


Locksie January 5, 2013
ARC Book Club Inc.
Star Rating 5.0*****
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews

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