For the past several years, Jahzara Franklin has had the weight of the world on her shoulders. Her mother suddenly passed away from a brain aneurysm, making her the sole caregiver for her teenage sister because their father wasn’t in the picture. When she’s unable to find a job that pays enough for her and her sister to live comfortably, she swallows her pride and does something she never thought she’d do. When she meets a man who appears to have good intentions, she gives him a chance only to find out six months later that he’s a fraud.
Dakari Bentley has been angry for as long as he can remember. He regularly witnessed the man who carried half of his DNA beat the woman who carried the other half, so it was hard for him not to be mad. One day, Dakari snapped, and the trajectory of his life changed in ways he would’ve never imagined. He’s given a second chance to live his dreams and takes full advantage of the opportunity.
When Jahzara and Dakari meet, it’s not under the most ideal circumstances, however, the attraction they have for each other cannot be denied. Eventually, they give in to the feelings brewing between them, falling hard and fast for each other. While Jahzara is still trying to find herself, Dakari’s future is bright. No one thinks she’s good enough for him, not even her.
*This book takes place in a fictious city called Onyx City. It is a mid-sized city in one of the southern states which is not named in the book.
Welcome to Kay Shanee's Reading Korner Kay is forty something wife and mother, born and raised in the Midwest. During the day, she is a high school teacher. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends. Her favorite pastime is reading and writing romance novels about the dopeness of BLACK LOVE.
I enjoyed their journey…..Great Example of not allowing other people’s thoughts, opinions and perceptions drive your way of life. The 2nd read was the audiobook…I’m always here for a Winston James narration.
Can someone tell me what aisle in Target I can find my own Dakari Bentley?!!! Lawd, this young tender gave me all the feels. After serving three years in jail, Dakari has managed to put his life back together. He’s a basketball phenom at Onyx University and guaranteed to be the number one draft pick. But, his past is starting to rear its ugly head and interfere. Dakari’s father’s upcoming release from prison is starting to affect him mentally which, is starting to affect his grades. Because he’s already under a microscope and being watched by all the higher ups at the university, his coaches force him to get a tutor until his grades are back up. Enter Jahzara Franklin. Jahzara is dealing with her own problems. She’s seven months pregnant and the full-time parent to her 19 year old sister. Unable to work because of her pregnancy, she tutors on the side to make extra money.
From the moment Dakari laid eyes on Jahzara, he was absolutely smitten with her and, he didn’t let her pregnancy deter his feelings for her at all. Dakari bulldozed and inserted himself into Jahzara’s life and claimed her unborn baby as his own and dared anyone, including her, to say something about it. The way he stepped up and became her protector and defender was so very heartwarming. And, there was plenty to protect and defend her from. The drama, lies, and secrets were plentiful in this story. There were all kind of revelations and plot twists poppin’ up that will have you clutchin’ your pearls so, get ready.
I absolutely did not like Dakoda at all. He was a shytty brother and his energy was off. Dakoda gave me bad vibes from the beginning and, when he let his true feelings be known during their therapy session, he earned a permanent spot on my shyt list. I hope Kay Shanee does NOT give us a book on Dakoda because, I will not be reading it. I’m good on him. Now, I wouldn’t say no to a book on Yaz and Bronx that’s a few years into the future. Hate Our Love was a fitting title for this book because, there were definitely a lot of haters rooting for Jahzara and Dakari to fail. But, he gave zero phucks about other people’s opinion and refused to explain himself. If it ain’t yo business was a person, it would definitely be Dakari Bentley.
Alright now Kay! I see you brushed off the golden pen again for this one, as I was immediately invested in these characters! Jahzara! Still grieving but doing the damn thang taking care of herself and her sister Yaz, while navigating her new normal. Who knew that a tutoring side gig would change her life! Dakari! Ma'am he is everything you hear me! 🥰 Coming back from that traumatic experience could have broken him, but he stood strong with plans to prove all the doubters wrong! Laying eyes on Jahzara sent shockwaves through his system, and the pursuit was on! I love the way he was dominant, yet sweet with the way he inserted himself into Jah's life! ❤️ She was his to protect and care for, even if she ain't know it yet! 😂 Their ease into friendship was seamless and was beautiful to watch unfold! I loved Dr. Urban! We all need a therapist like this. He was professional, but no nonsense; and would take his Dr. hat off in a second to tell you bout yourself! 😂 Now, Dakoda! This fool ass ninja needs some help for real, for real! Ughhhh..... Who hates on their brother's success, and low key wishes for his downfall? Dakoda that's who! He had my pressure up, and I wanted Dakari to just knock his ass out! 🤬 Between the KIITC and Ruby's ole hatin' ass, storms begin to brew. Dakari has no plans to address the haters, as he was loving the world he lives in with Jah, Yaz and Lani. You can run but can't always hide. When secrets are revealed, egos and feelings are hurt that could have allow this love to come tumbling down! Thankfully cooler heads prevailed. I know you hate when we do this Kay, but can we talk about future stories please? I would love to dive into Dakoda's head to find out why he is so jealous of Dakari. I just feel like there are other issues at play. Also, Miss Yaz was a whole vibe, and became teacher many times to her big sister. Will Bronx change to love her, right? Will she give him a real shot? Loved this read! Bravo ma'am! 👍👍👍
I love me a protector!! From the moment he saw Jah he protected & provided!! He was on his grown man and the way they built love was sexy! This book had laughs, love & hot sex & Yaz was too funny lol & kept it a buck lol people going to always hate what they can't have or understand! That's why when you're being love correctly let them hate!!
I really enjoyed this story. The characters were both so down to earth and likable. During the beginning of the story, the flow seemed a little off to me. The transitions just seemed to happen too quickly for me. But overall, I loved the evolution of this relationship. It was definitely chemistry at first sight. My favorite character was definitely Dr. Urban! He was The Man! The best book therapist out there. I think anyone would enjoy this read. I certainly did.
I will bend over backwards and jump through all kinds of hoops to be on the FMC’s side. And boy did I try with Jahzara! But this woman worked my last nerve. Jahzara literally called Dakari (MMC) her unicorn, that’s what an amazing, stand up guy he was for her. That’s a good man Savannah!!! I think she got stupider with every swipe of his tongue or thrust of his pelvis. Ma’am, if you are determined to fumble this good man just say that!!! But even when he was sick of her and over her BS, he wasn’t over her BS. Alexa play You by Jacquees! I’m always here for Black girls being shown an epic love even if we get in our own way. So I’m celebrating their HEA. Per usual for these kinds of books, the family members were trash. Shout out to Jahzara’s little sister though, she was always the voice of reason. This book was cute and drama filled, so a fun read.
The title was very odd for this story, but as the story builds; it will come into focus for readers. I liked this version of unlikely couples proving that true love is possible for everyone. Jah and Dakari had a unique friendship from the start. Knowing that Jahzara would one day have to tell Dakari about her free spirited job, was pretty scary. Who knew how he would react. And you can guess what happened next. And the thirsty chick always hangs on to the hero even when she has no chance of keeping him. Blah. Blah... Overall, this was a good read. I received this story....
This was an interesting story that kept me engaged from the beginning. I loved how smitten Dakari was with Jahzara from their first encounter. They endured a lot and didn’t communicate the best, but one things for certain - they were in love. Dakari was everything that Jah and the baby needed! There was so much hate, blackmailing, and jealousy from the outsiders. Happy this couple made it!
Character development, storyline, cover, wordplay and just enough drama and s*x scenes. My second sport’s romance read and I loved it. Loved me some Dakari!I Hope we be get a story on Dakoda.
DaKari and Jahzara were perfect together. He absolutely showed Jah what true love looked like. And how he loved her baby daughter was super sweet!
Both DaKari and Jahzara took their responsibilities seriously while keeping their dreams alive. After her mom died, Jah raised her younger sister. Dakari spent 3 years in jail, for protecting his mother from his abusive father. And then he had to put up with his jealous, meddling brother.
I am an avid reader of Kay Shanee books, I simply cannot get enough of her writing. The complexities in this novel were unique to say the least and each character has a story to tell. This book proves how what you do in your past, no matter if you’re young or old, will have consequences, and that can either make you stronger if you embrace your truth or weaker, and you will get to see what each character chooses.
There will be frustrating moments in the book but that kept me wanting to turn the pages, nonetheless. It is definitely a happily ever after but the road to their sweet love is not one without doubts, jealousy and other obstacles. I do wish the ending was a little more flushed out but I think that’s because I didn’t want the book to end, but you do get closure on some loose ends. That’s all I’ll say for now, as I don’t want to spoil it for you. Read this, if you love love.
Can you tell how/where to find a real life Dakari? I love him and Jahzara! And Yazmeen is absolutely hilarious, sassy and a sweetheart. Maybe we’ll get her story in the future. (hint)
Hate Our Love is an emotionally layered read that will have you laughing, crying and ready to throat punch a few folk. I truly loved every word. Download your copy today!
Jah and Dakari… I loved this sports romance. Dakari came in the picture making it known he was step daddy material. Their love story was developed beautifully. What could’ve torn them apart, they used as fuel to keep them going. I hate that as much love that Dakari had for his brother was not reciprocated. This was my first book my Kay Shanee and I will be reading more of her work.
Well-written but I felt like the characters lacked depth. The plot was extremely predictable and it made it difficult for me to enjoy reading but I managed to get to the end. I didn't really like the ending and the little drama that was created at the end. I did however like what Dakoda stood for. A loving black man who indeed was a unicorn despite his flaws. I just wished the characters were fleshed out more then I would've been able to connect.
Aww this was such a delightful read and I pray I meet my Unicorn Man soon…I have always thought some people’s response to stories on the blog are from a heart of hatred and jealousy and I was not surprised to read this in this beautiful story. I was eagerly waiting for this release and it was everything and more. Great work Ms Shanee
If you are an avid reader that loves indie authors like I do make sure to never sleep on Mrs. Shanee. Don't even rest your eyes for a second. When I say her penmanship is fire, it's not an understatement. Dakari skipped the book bae title, he is BAE. I have to agree he is going down in history as one of the best. When he laid his eyes on Jahzara he knew she was his other half. He was already smitten. He loved the whole package, Jahlani became attached in the womb. She came out as a daddy's girl. The way he cared for Jahzara and Jahlani you have thought it was a bond years in the making. He showed his love and made sure no one disrespected them in any way. The hand that was dealt to Dakari he used to fight his way to success. I love how he kept climbing until he got to the top. He brought Jahzara and Jahlani with him. He also became the overprotective big brother of Yazmeen. The fame he had already gained from his high school and college career kept the media in his life. The life he built for him and Jahzara got a little messy but they were able to move on. Jahzara's so-called friend Ruby showed her true colors but that checkmate Jahzara gave her changed her life.
Mrs. Shanee, I am always a fan of your masterpieces this one is no different. I want to point out how you made sure every issue was addressed and that you didn't leave the reader guessing. Dakoda the big brother slash coach had some serious deep-rooted problems. What older sibling is not rooting for their young sibling to be successful? He overstepped his boundaries when he administered the DNA test. He had no right. Conversely, I was glad that Dakari turned his pain, past, and anger into a huge gain. Mrs. Athena was able to gain her life back and live in bliss. This read is where it's at, don't bypass it download or purchase today. You will be glad you did.
Both Dakari and Jahzara had bad communication skills I was shaking my head at how both of them handled certain situations. Dakoda was just sad like how you act like that towards your brother 🤦🏾♀️ he sounded sad asf. Yaz is the sister that everyone needs because she was going to ride or die for her sister, I do wonder if we will get a book from her and her love interest. This book was read in one setting, it had to be because you want to know how everything would end. Jahzara did get on my nerves but then again I had to think about the past she was dealt. Dakari is definitely BDE I also felt for him because he was handled a bad hand. Once giving a second chance he made his dream life out of it and Jahzara and her bundle of joy was an added bonus. They way Dakari came and took on some major responsibilities was admirable. The only thing I didn’t like was the ending, it seemed rushed but I would still recommend this book to others.
This Story waa Everything. Dakari definitely had BDE, and Jahzara didn't stand a chance. Jahzara has baggage and real changing issues, the last thing she was checking was a man. Dakari had his own ser of issues, but he knew he wanted Jahzara and not even her issues were going to stand in his way. I their instant chemistry. Ruby waa jealous was wasn't to chosen one and so was Dakoda. Coach K was really a dirty snake. I loved how Dr. Urban always kept it real. I how Mama Bentley did right by Kari in the end and found her happiness. Dakota was bitter ans unhappy just like his daddy. I loved Yazmeen she reminds me of myself with her mouth, always keeping it 💯. I would love for her to have a story. I really loved Kari loves for Lani. Definitely adding this book to my paperback collection.
This was a great read. I love a sports romance. This was unique due to both Dakari and Jahzara’s life prior to meeting each other. Dakari knew from jump he want Jahzara and didn’t stop until that happened baby and all. I loved the relationship Dakari built with Yazmeen as well. He instantly became a family man and was protective over his bubble. I didn’t like Dakoda the whole story and I didn’t like him even more after his revelations at therapy. I would love to get more from Yazmeen in the future but I know that just me always wanting more. I felt like her and Bronx could work and maybe he would change his ways and be the type of man she needed not just a good friend. But I thoroughly enjoyed this one.
As always Kay Shanee has pulled at our heartstrings and introduced us to another book bae! Dakari was that ninja from jump. I loved and admired how he went after what he wanted when it came to Jahzara and Jahlani. I was happy that Jah allowed for things to just flow naturally between them. Dakari's brother was the biggest hater of all. I wasn't too surprised, but you would think that he wanted to see his brother succeed after all he went through. I adored Yaz. She had her sister's back, and had no filter at all! I truly enjoyed this.
This was a sweet love story that centered around Dakari and Jahzara. Dakari was a basketball star in college who was going to be drafted in the NBA. Beause of some things that happened to him in the past, he started failing his classes and was required to get a tutor. Jahzara was a pregnant woman who was abandoned by her baby daddy the moment she told him that she was pregnant. To make extra money before the baby comes, she starts to tutor college students. These two met, and it was love at first sight, but where there is love their is always hate.
Kay Shanee is that girl! If you don’t know this, perhaps reading Hate Our Love will put you on! Jahzara and Dakari’s love story is so much more than boy meets girl. It’s a story of acceptance, forgiveness, love without limits, jealousy, and a willingness to work on self. These two people meet as each of them are at critical times of their lives . Dakari’s willingness to love Jahzara and all she comes with her. The way loves her just made me so emotional. I have read many books by Kay Shanee, I think Hate Our Love is my favorite. It will be your too’
This was a super sweet love story center around Dakari and Jahzara. Haven't spend 3 years in prison for protecting his mother Dakari is given a second chance at his dream. Chance and unconventional meeting with Jahzara sets these two on a path of unconditional love. I stated before super sweet love story. Dakari is definitely book bae worthy.
Author Kay Shanee wrote the ULTIMATE book bae with Dakari. A protector, a provider, in touch with his feelings and wasn't afraid to act on them. I loved the way he immediately stepped up for Jahzara, Jahlani and even Yazmeen. I really enjoyed this read! I hope Yazmeen and Knox get a book!
As is my custom, I definitely read these books out of order.
Dakari was THAT guy and was dedicated to Jahzara from the very beginning. The 3rd act breakup really annoyed me and Jahzara's reasoning for doing a weekend at the club and not disclosing that to Dakari was stupid.
This book was so good. Dakari was everything and I just loved how he cared for her dispite thier issues. I'm hoping we get a story about her sister I'd like to see how that goes. I really enjoyed this book, great read!