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Stepdaddy Season

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For Cypher Hall being the mother to twin boys is far from easy. She has to work two jobs just to keep her head above water, and she still often feels like she's drowning. She hadn't been in a relationship since her kids' father eight years ago, and she's started to realize that Prince Charming may never ride up on his white horse and save her. In her heart of hearts, Cypher wants her sons to grow up in a household filled with love, not a mother that sometimes has to miss important events because she's the breadwinner. Cypher never imagined that getting a tattoo for her birthday would ultimately change the course of her life forever.

Houston Robinson suffers an unfortunate tragedy and overnight, he's responsible for two kids that he didn't biologically create. That doesn't matter because Houston would walk through hell barefoot for those kids. When the woman in his life can't seem to come to grips with his new lifestyle, Houston has no problem with setting her free. Once he becomes single, another relationship is the furthest thing from his mind but as a good friend once told him, sometimes you have to go through the BS to get to the good ish. Houston just might find that to be true when single mother Cypher and her twin sons enter his life.

152 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 18, 2023

660 people are currently reading
417 people want to read

About the author

Natisha Raynor

293 books670 followers

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5 stars
2,090 (73%)
4 stars
492 (17%)
3 stars
223 (7%)
2 stars
42 (1%)
1 star
6 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 298 reviews
Profile Image for Rashawnda.
1,391 reviews1,139 followers
July 6, 2023
Life as a single mother is no walk in the park for Cypher. She’s been navigating life the best way she can while caring for her 8 year old twins Qori and Quentin. After their father proved time and time again that he didn’t have a pot to piss in nor the window to throw it out of, she pulled up her big girl panties and got a second job to ensure that her boys were not lacking in anything. While funds were tight she never complained. Things just seemed to come together when she least expected it and when those blessings began to pour in by way of her angels on earth Houston, she realized that things would never be the same. Stepdaddy season was in full effect!

Houston is a single parent in his own right. After the untimely death of his sister, he became the permanent guardian of his 8 and 9 year old nieces Omi and Terri. They are struggling a bit with grief and Houston is not always sure how to help them navigate. These two blended families become one and become the new and improved Brady bunch!

*****POSSIBLE SPOILERS*****

While this story had tons of potential, it missed the mark for me. The story fell flat in some areas and wasn’t as cohesive as I would have liked. One example was their first sexual encounter 😳 It seemed hella random and out the blue. There was no build up and no chemistry before it happened and then once it was done the aftermath was very much a “put the money of the night stand” situation! I also didn’t like how he kept saying he wasn’t looking for anything series yet he was funding whole vacations and constantly throwing money her way all while dckn Cypher down but then taking trips with other women. It was very messy especially with 4 kids involved. Houston was exhibiting fk boy and stand up guy behavior at the said damn time and idk how that’s even possible. This couple gave no feels and I feel like the kids fueled the relationship instead of an organic connection.

I did love the update on one of my favorite Winter Crest couples, Ransom and Indiana! I’ve read plenty from this author so I’m going to chalk this up as a “not my cup of tea” read! I’ll still read more from her in the future but this was a no for me.
Profile Image for Annette Williams.
1,197 reviews423 followers
October 2, 2023
3.5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Cypher is tired. She’s the single parent to 8 year old twin boys, she works two jobs, and sis is barely keeping her head above water. It doesn’t help that her trash azz baby daddy walks around like he didn’t go half with her on the twins and doesn’t pay any child support whatsoever. Having two jobs takes up a good amount of Cypher’s time so, she can’t always be in the stands at the twin’s football games as much as she’d like. Even with her support system, Cypher still feels a tremendous amount of guilt for not being there for her boys. After his sister commits suicide, Houston becomes the legal guardian to his 8 and 9 year old nieces. While he loves having his girls with him, Houston was not prepared for the trauma these babies are still dealing with. The death of their mama affected the girls more than he realizes so, he’s having to learn how to navigate them through their grief. Add to that, Houston’s new normal has started to effect his two year relationship with his girlfriend. When he learns how Tiesha really feels about becoming an instant stepmama overnight, Houston immediately breaks up with her and embraces his new status as a single father. Stepdaddy Season was a good read but, I was a little surprised at how light the drama was in this book. Houston was definitely the fckboy you hated to love. He was living his best single life but, he was sending hella mixed signals to Cypher. Houston is taking her and the twins on vacation with him and his nieces and helping her out financially but, he's still livin' life like he's unattached. He's taking birthday trips and d*ckin’ down other women. Insert record scratch because, where they do that at?!!! And, Cypher just seemed to accept it is what it is. I guess that was her being mature about their situation but, I ain’t like that. While I liked this couple, I didn’t love them and I think Houston’s behavior played a large role in that. The epilogue was disappointing as well. It was very lackluster and didn’t give what it should’ve given. Stepdaddy Season didn’t hit like Stepmama Season but, I’d still recommend it.
Profile Image for Toya  Davis-Stokley.
2,566 reviews103 followers
June 22, 2023
I loved how Cypher worked two jobs, doing all she could to take care of herself and her boys. Meeting Houston should have been a good thing; however, he wasn’t ready for anything serious, and it showed. He was upfront with her about it, but it just felt off. He would be all in her face, giving her good D, and buying her things to try and help her out with her boys. Then he would be flying off somewhere tricking off with the next woman! I didn’t feel a genuine connection between Cypher and Houston. A sexual chemistry, sure, but that’s it! I’m not even sure that they would have gotten together for real, if it wasn’t for the situation. Just okay for me.
Profile Image for Torri (BlackRomanceConnoisseur).
177 reviews306 followers
Read
July 28, 2023
This was a fuck nigga heavy book. This man went to Miami with another chick right after they went on their little blended family vacation. I get that they had no titles for 90% of the book (what the f— btw) but why is he the only one that sleeping with other people, dating other people while she working her fingers to the bone and sitting home lonely?? That man should have been with Vannah or his ex because my girl went out sad as hell.

Cypher talking about some ““I’d be salty too, if I let a good one like Houston go” <——-who this fa??? Him giving up the D and and money when it’s convenient for him doesn’t equal a good man.
Profile Image for Kameel.
1,066 reviews296 followers
January 17, 2024
Second read was the audiobook….with decent narration
Profile Image for She Watkins.
94 reviews9 followers
February 29, 2024
I'm on the fence!

This was an okay read! I felt like Cypher was into Houston waaaayyy more than he was into her! I didn't get how he shows up for the kids, takes her on dates, drops that super mega supreme D on her 😂 takes family trips with her and then says I don't want her to get attached to me, or the girls attached to her?!! Like Whet? Then he was doing his thing the whole time and then one day its just "you my baby" 🙄🙄then he proposed ( right after going off about everything being too mucn for him and he dont want this sometimes 🙄🙄) and said we got all these kids might as well get married?!?!! Like dang how about love? Even in the epilogue no mention of loving cypher! It seemed like Houston settled and cypher was drunk off that D so she was gonna go along with whatever
Profile Image for Ebony Essence.
542 reviews25 followers
October 28, 2024
This was cool

3.5 - So i enjoyed the overall plot but some things were a miss. I loved that Cypher did what needed to be done to provide for her twins and also gave herself some special time. Even though Houston’s family had a heartbreaking story i loved him for stepping up to take care of his nieces.

Now they had sexual chemistry which was nice but definitely came out of no where. Even though they both told each other about themselves it never felt like a deep connection. Nothing wrong with friends with benefits but i wish Cypher was doing her like Houston was doing him. I give props to anyone being upfront about what it is and what it’s not. This gave the feeling like women stay precious while men go do what they want. Don’t get me wrong Houston helping her out was cool but i wish Cypher put both her feet fully into the dating pool instead of getting jealous.

Lastly, the ending i enjoyed the most. Houston and cypher stepped up to be there for one another’s kids outside of the ones they have together. That takes very special people to do that. I wouldn’t mind if the kids got a quick spin-off to see how things are going in their lives. Cool read and would recommend if you’re not looking for anything too deep.
Profile Image for Lisette.
613 reviews43 followers
June 20, 2023
Really sweet!

This story was something else.
It was a perfect read for Fatber's Day(or shortly there after).
Enjoyed the characters but Cypher was a little much for me, because she kind of reminded me too much of me. Lol
Houston was The Man! He was a man of integrity and that is so sexy.
Very nice quick read.
Profile Image for JBucky.
462 reviews32 followers
June 24, 2023
3.5 ⭐️ The end of this book was E V E R Y T H I N G!!! I LOVED how both Houston & Cypher’s characters were developed! As well, I loved how Houston became that dude to step up and take care of everyone else’s kids along with the ones that he created! He was a good dude from the beginning!

This book definitely wasn’t giving “love at first sight” romance type vibes until the very end. Cypher was a 32 year old single mom struggling to raise twins.! While Houston was in a 28 year old, in a relationship with a 24 year old raising his sister’s daughters. Houston and Cypher just started off as friends with benefits, although I believed that Cypher fell in love with Houston way before he even considered being with her. Cypher seemed to just accept the way their relationship went, although she wanted more. Let me just say the story was different, that’s the best way I can explain it 😂. It was however a decent read!!!
Profile Image for daeshaaa .
133 reviews1 follower
August 6, 2024
I wanted a unserious, 5 star read and instead got this. I hated it. No redeeming qualities. Man is a loser, woman’s a different level of stupid. This being written by a woman makes no sense because some of the dialogue??? Like man would say “Why haven’t you had a vacation” and she’ll just trauma dump. Every chance she gets. Then this woman has 10 year old twins and you gave her another pair???? Hello? Kmt. The man proposed during the thing and then said because they have kids he might as well? Girl. Stand up and don’t piss me off. The only thing saving it from 1 star is I’ve somehow read worse this year. However I do not learn and will probably read the second book anyway
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for perfectlyamberb.
627 reviews29 followers
June 23, 2023
very slow burn

This book was cute and I loved how Houston was with Cypher’s boys but I couldn’t get over the fact that Houston spends 81% of this book dating and having sex with not only Cypher but multiple other women, as well. Cypher is aware of it so there’s no deception but it just rubbed me the wrong way probably because it went on for two thirds of the book.
Profile Image for Tiffany.
65 reviews31 followers
July 1, 2023
4.5 🌟This was my 1st book by this author, and it did not disappoint. Houston is definitely book Bae. This book was smexy and had me in my feelings.
Profile Image for Babs B.
58 reviews3 followers
July 19, 2023
Love

I really enjoyed this short read. First read by this author. Houston definitely is a keeper. Headed to find other books by this author.
Profile Image for Jann.
726 reviews7 followers
Read
August 28, 2023
Hated the fact that he was with other women after he was with the FMC. Why do you have to wait until you have decided to be exclusive?! Makes no sense to me. Was a great story up until then.
Profile Image for Q. Moore.
970 reviews39 followers
July 7, 2023
Blended family!

This is the first book I read by this author. It was the "cover for me." I had to see what stepdaddy season was all about. Houston was a stand-up guy but he did some things I didn't care for. He and Cypher didn't have a title but she was exclusively intimate with only him while he was frolicking with Vannah. I know he was somewhat rebounding from Tiesha but he needed to match his actions with Cypher. I also thought he and Cypher could have had more chemistry. I feel if it was more scenes of them getting to know each other without the kids their chemistry would have been off the charts. I loved Cypher's hustle she worked those two jobs to take care of her boys. She was raising well-mannered talented young men. My heart went out to Omi and Terrionna because they suffered a huge loss. You can tell it affected Omi more than Terrionna, however, Houston did a magnificent job at raising them after that tragedy. He made sure to get them in therapy which was imperative. He was also an involved "parent" when it came to Omi and how she expressed her anger. Houston and Cypher created the ultimate blended family. Both got what they needed in their lives which was each other plus six kids.
Profile Image for 'The Book Queen'.
6,017 reviews112 followers
June 25, 2023
Good story

I enjoyed the story, I had a few issues with the writing, and execution. I liked this modern day Brady Bunch Black version. The stepfather was an amazing man. Try it, you might like it.
Profile Image for Synthia Littleton.
495 reviews17 followers
August 21, 2023
I am glad I didn't let the title run me off!

I thought this would be a hood love story. Not only was that not the case, but this was so much more. These two were sexy but real all at the same time. I really enjoyed this one!
Profile Image for Mayas.
2,429 reviews48 followers
February 12, 2025
Good read

This was a heart-warming book. I loved the stand-up brother and uncle Houston was. Him and Cypher both needed each other. The love and how they went hard for their kids was and is ME!!!!
Profile Image for A. Blossom.
Author 15 books439 followers
August 9, 2023
Couldn’t put it down! On my way to the tattoo shop now, if that’s where the step daddy’s reside. 😂 Beautifully written!
Profile Image for Mia Morgan.
1,144 reviews32 followers
September 25, 2023
Ok

I enjoyed this. Houston was making me mad for a moment. He got it together. Cyphus was just the sweetest. Good read.
Profile Image for J.D. Southwell.
Author 9 books62 followers
September 18, 2024
omg wow!!

This was the first time I’ve read anything from Natasha and baybay she did her thing! I absolutely loved this story!!
Profile Image for Lynn Lewis.
323 reviews5 followers
June 24, 2023
What a sweet story.Talk about a blended family!
I actually kind of liked that these two never really professed love for each other, but strong mutual attraction, sexual compatibility, then wholehearted commitment. It worked beautifully for them.
727 reviews15 followers
August 7, 2023
Stepdaddy

Stepdaddy Season was a sweet story. Yes, it deals with a tough issue, but it wasn't traumatizing. It was just mentioned. Overall, it is an okay read. 31/2 *
Profile Image for Leondra LeRae’.
Author 45 books102 followers
July 21, 2023
Stepdaddy Season

Wow! This was my first read by Natisha but i don’t think it’ll be my last. From page one this book captured me! I want more Houston & Cypher , not even gonna front! Lol great job!
1,212 reviews3 followers
February 17, 2024
I’m sorry but I hated most of the characters names. I had to make up my own nicknames.

I think Tiesha was honest and respectful. And what she said made sense.
Houston did the right thing with ending the relationship because Tiesha wasn’t down for the changes but I still feel he shouldn’t be mad with her just because she didn’t want the responsibility. Disappointed and sad maybe but he was acting like she was a bad person.

I’m a little confused about Bria’s relationship. It sounds like the kids father has been locked up for 4-5 years, so when did they break up? Because it was also implied that after they broke up she was depressed for a while then eventually the worse happened.

Two pairs of sneakers each for two young boys, every two months is crazy. Especially for someone that says their broke or live check to check. Then someone covers the cost of shoes and instead of saving the money, thought process is hey I have more to spend on other things that are not essentials. 🤦🏾‍♀️ We, as a people, need financial literacy. Stat!!

Ugh Zeke is disgusting. And it’s a shame that most dudes think like him. I feel bad for Cresha bc she’s probably giving him her all meanwhile he’s thinking about smashing other women constantly.

Nick have some damn nerves. I hate a bum that amounts to nothing but a sperm donor.

Every time cypher talks about Houston she makes it sexual and comes off thirsty. I’m kind of annoyed and disappointed.

Cypher still a king bad judgements. After being a single mom why would she let a man hit raw. I don’t care how much he takes care of his nieces she just met him. And to let him do it again after being out with another woman not that long ago… I’m not feeling the fmc. Complains about being broke but spends irresponsibly imo. Complains about being a single mom and not letting a new dude strap bc he good looking, takes care of his nieces and gives her money. Low vibrations.

And not to let Houston off the hook, I’m looking at him sideways since he raw dogging Cy while still sleeping with other women. I wish he’d have enough respect for her to protect her.

I knew this would happen. I know Houston would do the right thing but cypher should never her put herself in this position.

Zeke got what her deserves. I hope he mourns that relationship for the rest of his life. I hope nothing but the best for Cresha.

Nick is a deadbeat but didn’t give up his rights, so how will Houston adopt the boys. Cypher should have thought that through. Maybe Nick will continue his loser streak so the boys can get their wish. They deserve a real dad like what they have in Houston.

That ten year jump was nice.

My final thoughts, Tiesha wasn’t wrong to feel the way she did even though most called her names for her honesty. Nor was Houston wrong for ending things with her. I didn’t like the immaturity of Cypher when it came to her finances and sexual health but she eventually grew up and got it together. The growth is very respectable. I loved that she was a rock for Houston and the girls. Houston, though had his flaws, was a selfless man. Loved how he was about his nieces as well as cypher and the twins. Their relationship worked for them and all the kids were better for it.

Though I felt frustrated at times, this was a good story that kept me entertained and ready for book two.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for KayReads__.
302 reviews4 followers
July 21, 2023
Ate this book right up!!! Having a stepfather, myself, I was in love with Houston and how he stepped up automatically!! A great Father's Day read! My first ever read from Ms. Raynor and it won't be my last!!
Profile Image for Lady.
216 reviews3 followers
January 27, 2024
Cypher spent the entire book reiterating that she is a single mother to twin boys who wants a man to help her raise them and also help her out. Blah, blah, and blah.

After a break-up, Houston wanted to enjoy life as a newly single man. This was explained to Cypher, but of couse, she caught feelings. At the end of the day, they both needed each other to help with the kids, so it worked out for them in the end. (shrugs)
Profile Image for Sita M..
128 reviews5 followers
January 7, 2025
The idea of the book was cute but it lacked detail and seemed rushed. Also, for it to be a short story, there was alot of gaps between time. For example, They arrived in Florida & then the very next page said they had been back from vacation for 2-3days like what! lol There also wasn’t anything building up to the “romance.”
Profile Image for Jerrica (Mrsmar10Reads) Martin .
1,664 reviews10 followers
February 5, 2025
Round of applause!

This book, this book...had me in my feelings but it was so good. Cypher and Houston were just everything. This man took in his sister's kids, loved on Cypher's kids and gave her the world. There were some heavy topics but it didn't take away from the story at all.

CW/TW: mention of suicide, self harm, miscarriage
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