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It is What it is: A Hood Love Story

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Can you find true love in the hood? Follow three best friends as they try to find love in the city of brotherly love, better known as Philly. Louchanna aka Lucky an unassuming, innocent college girl meets a young boss by the name of Carlos.
Their instant love affair turns out to be anything but perfect or fairytale. Lucky finds out that being a boss’s wifey comes with its many luxuries as well as its equal share of downsides.

Whoever says you have to let the past stay in the past? That’s not the case for Keema who’s suddenly faced with a tough decision. What’s a girl to do when her past wants a place in her future? Her first love Jah is back to claim the heart he once left shattered. Can people really change? Or does the old saying ‘you can’t teach an old dog new tricks,’ stand true?

Ty, Lucky’s cousin strives on being the poster child of the independent woman in Corporate America. While her career and ambitions are on track her love life is the total opposite. After an unforgettable one night stand Ty can’t seem to get Nice out of her system no matter who she’s with. Deep down she feels that he could be the one to show her what real love is, despite the odds stacked against their budding love.

Buckle up and come along for this roller coaster ride of drama. Strap up and be prepared to ride along with these girls as they experience love and life. Many things will change in their lives but one thing that will never is the bond and sisterhood they share. Is there really such a thing as finding love in the hood? Find the answer to that question in this drama packed book filled with sex, betrayal, drugs, murder, and hood love.

570 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 28, 2013

87 people are currently reading
361 people want to read

About the author

Ivory B.

2 books124 followers

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5 stars
401 (81%)
4 stars
70 (14%)
3 stars
8 (1%)
2 stars
7 (1%)
1 star
6 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
Profile Image for Vee.
1 review6 followers
January 28, 2014
BEST URBAN LOVE STORY EVERRRRRRRR !!!!!!!
Profile Image for Barbara.
799 reviews133 followers
December 4, 2013
I loved the plot, hated the prolonged events. The story seemed to never end
Overall this was a good book
Profile Image for Nadia Edmondson-mcallister.
6 reviews4 followers
December 23, 2013
Great story! The story line was very well written. While reading the story you can tell the author put great thought into her work. there was no rushing. Almost 600 pages. Job well done! I love the story from beginning to end. I am a sucker for love and yes I am team los and luck, team jah and keema, and team nice and ty. I loved every couple. The emotion you depicted for each character I felt it 100%. Help other authors to understand developing a storyline is more important than writing 200 page books after the next. I never understand how they are able to drop 3 books in one month..... Off of my soapbox, once again Ivory Bee you did a phenomenal job writing this story. I look forward to book 2. You have a fan ;)
Profile Image for Latanya Smith.
2 reviews18 followers
November 4, 2013
I really enjoyed this book. It kept me wanting more, wanting to know what was going to happen to the characters. I didn't like the ending so much, because I guess I wanted them all to have an happy ending. The book left me wanting more. I will definitely enjoy reading other books from this author. I wonder if there will be a part two?
Profile Image for Gina.
674 reviews18 followers
April 13, 2015
Love this book !!
Profile Image for Edith Covington.
65 reviews2 followers
December 11, 2013
This book one of the best books I have read in a long time. I could identify with certain parts in the book, especially the insecurities and assuming. I remember those days. I felt like I was loosing my mind. Where is he, what is he doing, why isn't he answering the phone. Lucky was immature and naive at times and she didn't know the rules to the game. I like the challenges that each couple went through because it was realistic. It was pulling me in! Nice and Ty was tripping, because they knew what time it was. Jah and Keema relationship was a up and down ride, but you have to read the book to know what happened to each couple. Did they make it or was it to much drama to stay together? Did lucky learn the game? READ THE BOOK LOL. Thanks Ivory Bee for a job well done!
Profile Image for Treasure Malian.
Author 56 books132 followers
November 5, 2013
Where do I even begin?? This was a GREAT read. That had me completely engulfed from the beginning. The story line was compelling and believable. That characters were developed well and the relationships the couples went through was relatable. I really love each of the couples and can't wait to see how things will progress in the next installment. This author did an amazing job. I definitely recommend this.
Profile Image for Verlean.
79 reviews8 followers
November 30, 2013
I was recommended this book by several people and must say I was not disappointed. The story was a good one with relatable characters. I can tell I really got into the story because I was ready to physically hurt a few of the characters. This book shows that all relationships are not perfect and no one has all the answers. My only issues with this book were the punctuation and spelling errors. A little more editing would have even great, but as it stands I am looking forward to the follow up.
Profile Image for Mirrlees.
785 reviews
November 25, 2013
Took me a minute to finish this book but it was good but a little repetitive. The author of this book brought these couples of life with real live situations and how they actually happen. Good to see some of the couples had good endings and sad to see some are still struggle with there situations. Los and Lucky and true drama I hope that ends soon...Kema and Jah had a love like no other fall short a couple of times but good non the less. Love me some Ty and Nice drama. Oh and lets not forget arrogant Douglas he got what he deserved. thanks for a good read.
Profile Image for Sha Latoy.
33 reviews9 followers
November 5, 2013
This is one of the best books I have read all year so far. I clearly would give this book 10 stars if I could. The characters were so relatable and the dialogue between the characters was very authentic . I found myself laughing and even shedding a tear or two (lol). I love all the relationships especially lucky & los , and keema & jah ( they were funny ).im rooting for Nice and Ty's relationship also. Mia is so trifling and I can't believe she treats Kynah the way she does smh. Can't wait for part 2 , hope it doesn't take long to come out .
Profile Image for Carla.
511 reviews204 followers
November 19, 2013
Where do I begin?! "It is What it is: A Hood Love Story" was my first read by Ivory Bee...but it definitely won't be my last! Read and find out what all the hype is about!
Ivory B. put her foot in this one!It kept my attention from beginning to end.The story line flowed wonderfully. There were a few errors but not enough to affect the story. This book was full of drama. I loved all the characters...even though there were times I wanted to reach in the book and shake some sense into Lucky. With all this being said, I cannot wait until part 2 drops. Job well done Author Ivory B! 5 stars!!
4 reviews
November 24, 2013
Let me start off by saying this book was the bomb.com im a very picky reader but when I find a book I love I have to give props where they are due.My fav couple would have to be Ty and Nice I see me and my boo in them..I also love Los and Lucky as well as Keema and Jah I wish I could give more stars so if anyone is looking for a good read this is it I cant wait for pt.2...
Profile Image for Kristie Kilson .
429 reviews16 followers
October 7, 2015
Omg!!!!!!!!!! Have mercy!!!!

Now this was one of the best books I've ever read!!! This author is THE TRUTH!!!!!!!! Her books are worth every single dime!!!!! This was a long book and I'm so glad because most times the books be maybe 4 hours or less. Wow!!!! I want to see more from this Author!!!!!! Awesome job, Ivory B.!!!!! On to part 2!!!!
Profile Image for K Nikki  Waden.
433 reviews
November 9, 2013
Very good book in the beginning,but very long so the story line between the couples became repetitive,then the book just ended no cliffhanger or indication that it was ending.Will read part 2 only if it's shorter.
Profile Image for Kyla.
43 reviews
November 7, 2013
Author Ivory B. Did Her Thing Hands Down... It Was My First Read From The Author But I'm Glad I Read This Love Story... The Characters Didn't Seem Fake, Its Like You Know Them.. The Book Will Have You Laughing, Smiling, Mad... ETC GOOD JOB.
Profile Image for Maya B.
516 reviews61 followers
December 5, 2013
This was a good book. I gave it 4 stars because some parts just dragged on. This was a long read, however I found myself at times skipping through parts that could have been left out. Good job for this author's first book.
Profile Image for Mmoseley.
76 reviews3 followers
December 29, 2013
OMG!!! This book was captivating that I could not put it down! It was filled with drama,action,and romance. Carlos and Lucky drew me in and I couldn't let go. I am waiting on book two! This is a must read.
Profile Image for Chica.
11 reviews9 followers
November 11, 2013
This was one of the best books I've read in long time. As long as this book was I didn't want it to end. Can't wait for part 2
Profile Image for Taisha Ryan.
Author 17 books80 followers
March 18, 2014
Loved it! One of the best books I've read in a while.
Profile Image for 10914 Reviews.
123 reviews
April 14, 2024
I've gotta say, this book really captured my attention and left me wanting more! Lucky and Carlos are my Bonnie and Clyde of urban fiction. I could really relate to Lucky, as she was still in school and hadn't yet been exposed to the real world, or to the streets for that matter. Carlos was exactly my kind of guy!

Although he is deep in the drug game, he treats Lucky well, although they have their issues like every couple. I really felt like I was in the relationship with Lucky and Carlos, and I mentally cursed Carlos every time he messed up or almost messed up! Especially once Lucky thought he was creeping!

This book really taught me a lot about family and what it means to have true friends who have your best interests at heart. It also taught me a lot about a relationship and how important trust is. I really wish that Ivory B had written a sequel because I am dying to know what happens with Carlos and Lucky; the book ends with a major cliffhanger!
Profile Image for Janelia.
1,541 reviews20 followers
January 16, 2019
It is What it is

Omg I wanted to pull my hair with these ladies lol. But in all a very good behind book can’t believe I slips on this here outstanding read. Will Los and Lucky last do to her insecure
8 reviews
August 11, 2021
Ok Read

This was an ok read. The women cry way too much. The drama is predictable. It didn't hold my interest as I skimmed over some of the redundant sex scenes. I won't be reading part 2
Profile Image for Theresa Turner.
3 reviews
February 21, 2018
This is a must read, loved the main characters of the book. Ivory B you did the dang thang!!!!
2 reviews
March 13, 2019
One of my faves.

Loved it. Definitely a classic. I’ve seen this book often imitated but nothing compares. I really wish that we would’ve gotten a conclusion though. (A third book)
10 reviews
May 24, 2020
Just a good read!!!

Amazing.
I can’t believe that this is how it ends! The drama, the realness omg. So good! Loved every single moment
2 reviews
December 23, 2020
Come back

What happened to you.. Just left us hanging..
We've been waiting for years.. Why why why.. Where you bee lol..
22 reviews
May 30, 2024
i truly love this book but was very disappointed that there wasn’t any follow up to it truly sad because ivory B
has my vote
Profile Image for Tamela.
Author 1 book9 followers
October 19, 2015
'I'd Rather Have Love...'


Louchanna “Lucky” Williams is a college student focused on her education and coerced into a blind date finds herself bedazzled by the sexy amber eyes of Carlos Johnson. Carlos is a made man that has his mind on his money and his money on his mind…until he encounters a green-eyed beauty that enchants him with her innocence and all of a sudden, this pessimist…believes in love and luck. Tyanna is through with the boys in the hood and their antics, armed with her degree and beauty, she’s a professional woman looking for a professional man. Keema has been through the ringer in life, and now that the love of her life is back…they have to see if that teenage love affair is strong enough to overshadow the ills of their past and bless their future. Bff’s and fam, Lucky, Ty and Keema all ride hard for each other, but when love enters the picture will this trio be able to withstand the turning of each new season…knowing that ‘it is what it is…and that’s mos def how it is.

Love, lust, jealousy, drugs, arrogance, secrets, baby mama drama, paternity tests, distrust, and infidelity guarantee a dynamic read. It Is What It Is…was such an engaging read filled to the brim with emotional scenes executed to near perfection with spellbinding characters. Despite the plot being the average hood love/friendship tale, the orchestration was so vividly visual… the verbiage and interaction had a lyrical clarity that resonated a memorable sound that placed this novel in a category of its very own distinction. Comical scenes intermingled amidst the struggles, insecurity, estrangements and reconciliations ensure an addictive as well as classic read. Editing and grammar issues were grave distractions in an otherwise spectacular read. EX. barley should have been barely too many times to keep count, as well as whining should have been winding. Overlapping conversations and the lack of scene separation proved to be confusing components as well. The inconclusive ending was disappointing, although the author graced the readers with a fulfilling read. 4.48****
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews

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