Love is tricky. It’s an inescapable art form that Savvy and Shabu have yet to master. With his hidden truths revealed, Shabu is unpacking baggage to alleviate some weight off his shoulders. Meanwhile, Savvy is navigating motherhood and uncovering old wounds that life refuses to heal. The nagging question that holds them hostage is, are they doing it as a united front or watching each other in their rearview mirrors? One can only ‘hold tight’ for so long.Follow this couple as they break generational curses, redefine love, and find out the true meaning of family.**This is the finale of an urban, three-part series**
All 👏🏽the 👏🏽feels!!! Round of applause!!!!! Standing ovation!!!! Put some respect on my fav’s name!!!! If you don’t love this series you’re a hater and I said what I said!! Nette SMOKED this series and I enjoyed every bit of the contact high it gave me! 😊😏
Baby when I say this finale owes me nothing, 🗣️IT 👏🏽OWES 👏🏽ME 👏🏽NOTHING!!! If you’ve been following this series, AS YOU SHOULD’VE, then you know book 2 ended with drama, drama drama!!! We had the paternity of Navy hanging in the balance and after the voicemail had several fingers pointing at a single culprit, this family was at risk of a destruction they might not have been able to recover from! I honestly had a gut feeling how things would play out and loved the twist AS threw in while also educating us on Waardenburg Syndrome because I had never heard of it until now.
Savvy Savvy Savvy……sis why did you stress us AND that man out during the first half of this book?!?😵💫🫠🥴….I had to remind myself of Savvy’s age several times because she definitely presents her self as someone much older! When Shabu said his Whoop experienced life issues that aged her, he wasn’t lying but they also helped her mature and I loved that for her and Michi! They came a looonnnngggggg way from book 1!
Everyone needs a Shabu!!!! This man did not play about his Whoop! He was coming with whatever behind her and I loved that for them! He was a man of his word and even when their ish was rocky, he remained solid in how he loved and catered to Savvy.
We all knew Eric was a whole clown in these streets so his behavior didn’t even surprise me! I liked how Nette wrote him in the story but didn’t at the same time! We already knew he was a waste from how he did Savvy day one!
Loved the well deserved aśs whoopins we got in the story and Kelis should’ve been added to that list for talking out the side of her neck but Savvy and Shabu’s revenge of living HEA was even better! Wipe that egg off your face sis!
While the story was perfectly written and was fine without it, I would’ve loved to read about a therapy session or two on page! I’m glad we knew that it happened and that most of them where open to going because lord knows they needed it, but I would’ve like to read about Savvy or Michi unpacking some of that trauma and what the road to healing looked like. I also would’ve liked to know more about why Savvy’s father did what he did and lastly, I would have loved to ready about Michi’s trash aśs mama finding out about her precious Donald! In other words I wouldn’t have been mad at another 100 pages because I didn’t want the book to end!!!
We need to start convincing Nette to write a few spinoffs because the possibilities are endless. Toot and Tek, Relic and Kennedy, Pierre and Treasure, I would even love more from Michi and Titan…….give us moreeeeeee!!!!!
Let me stop myself because this review will end up being just as long as the book fooling with me! Read the series NOW!!!!
Through all of the trauma and turmoil….this family had sense enough to take care of one another and a few of them even incorporated therapy into their healing….NOW, I need Relic’s story with Kennedy and perhaps Pierre and Treasure will have a story to tell. Toot and her sister may even have stories.
This was a good series finale. Savvy and Michi started out with just the two of them and now they have a family and friends that love them. I’m so happy for them. Treasure and Pierre? I wonder if we will hear more from them in the future because I wonder how that will go down with Lexi 🧐 Michi and Titan are still so cute. I love that Michi got therapy and learned to love herself. I wonder if Savvy ever went. Little Indigo is on the way and I love that for them but I want Savvy to wait a little minute before more kids - maybe finish college? It’s not my cooch*e though lol Overall this was a good series!
Shabu and Savvy are really the real deal. They both struggled with trust issues, and rightfully so, but their love and devotion for one another superseded all their doubts. They really came a long way and I feel like a proud auntie. I loved all the supporting characters, family members and such and I really hope there will be more stories delving into the lives of some of my faves from this series.
Well, if you read book 2 then you know that it was only right that book 3 picked up right where the drama left off. From paternity tests to hidden secrets finally coming to the light, book 3 did what needed to be done to end this series. 😅
Savvy - Whew! If you’ve read this series then you know that she has come a LONGGG way. To have figure out life by yourself at the age of 18 simply because the people who are supposed to love and cherish would rather be selfish and their bullshit get in the way of their parenting is. But my girl came out on top with the man of her dreams with the perfect happily ever after. 🫶🏽
Shabu - I loved me some Shabu! His love for Navy was something that I was enjoyed reading about because he really didn’t have to step up. I was also happy that Shabu finally decided to work through things and release everyone else’s secrets so that he could finally live his damn life. *I’m looking at you Nubia.” I will say that he did piss me off at times because he really expected so much out of Savvy without giving her the same whole understanding that she was young as hell!
My favorite side characters: Michi and Titan - They deserved each! Michi really surprised me because I didn’t know if my girl was going to be able to get it together after what happened. I’m so happy that she started to go to therapy and finally let Titan love her properly. Titan really had me in a chokehold because he really did not give up on Michi even when he really wanted to. I’m hoping that we get more of Titan somehow though. 📷 👠
Los and Nubia - I loved them both, but these are two people that don’t need to be together because their issues run too damn deep. Sometimes love isn’t enough!
Tootie and Tek - These two need their own book because what was blossoming between these two was just too cute! 💕
Pierre - Oh! I’m coming for you in your book. I need to know what’s up with his wild ass.
Baby Girl - Finding out who Baby Girl was. >>>>>>> 🥹
Relic - You blue eyed bastard. I hate and love you a little at the same time. 🩵
Kennedy - Opp! I see you girl. What’s going on with you and Relic?
This series was my first series by Antoinette, and it won’t be my last. Her writing is chefs kiss!
4.5 ⭐️ Finally, we've made it! Book 2 had me on the edge of my seat. I really enjoyed this book we came a long way. Even though we now know the father's identity, the revelation did nothing to alter Savvy and Shabu's connection. I keep forgetting that these characters are still very young. I'm satisfied that we were able to see a side of Relic that his siblings do. He's not that bad, I’m lying he’s the devil if you’re in his way but I still give him the side eye since that man can't be trusted completely. There are no longer any snakes, yet Eric is still Eric. I enjoyed seeing Michi and Titan develop into a beautiful couple, but I would have appreciated a filler on Michi's therapy sessions. I felt that the development of Savvy and Treasure's relationship as sisters was rushed. The addition of new characters like Kennedy, Tek, and Treasure into the mix makes me wonder if Antoinette is setting us up for a spin-off, which I myself wouldn't mind seeing happen.
Shabu and Savvy were young and in love, but life and circumstances were kicking their azz. Savvy was emotionally disturbed as she learned more about that night she couldn't remember. The omissions caused her to question everything, including Shabu. Shabu was so deep in love with her he was distraught that her loyalty would waver. One thing that was consistent was the love they had for their daughter. Navy was their north star and reminded them of the love they shared. I love stories where the love is big and loud and can be felt throughout the book and that Love was clear between Shabu and Savvy.
Eric was a poor excuse for a father. He didn't try and low-key just needed to sign his rights over an exit. Kelis was scorned for no reason...bi$'- chose this life, but was mad about the repercussions of her actions.
Things I want or need to know.....I wouldn't be mad if we got a wedding update. Will Pierre and Treasure become a thing? Girl do you wanna deal with all those baby mommas 😫 Will there be closure for Los and Nubia. Relic and Kenn ain't low I need the details. Speaking of Relic, surprisingly enough he was likeable in this book and I appreciated his growth.
SN: Antoinette you dragged me for filth making me wait until like 40% to learn the paternity of this child. 😫😫
After all we have been waiting for we finally got our answers that we needed on the paternity of beautiful Navy. It was rocky as savvy and shabu try and navigate through these new changes and revelations being revealed left and right. So much to sift through, learn and progress. I’m so glad of the women savvy has become and mostly of Michi as well like my god these two girls have really come a long way and I’m so happy for their growth and all things deserving for them frfr !!! Listen Shabu is just that man for sav because he always comes through for her even in distraught times he’s top tier all day 🙌. I enjoyed the supporting characters a lot and it has given me hope that we are going to hear more from them hopefully because I definitely saw some love connections happening or waiting to happen and savvy peeped them all too 😭. I’m glad relic has grown to some capacity and hope he continues to grow and get the help he needs because of michi can do it so can he. Eric Eric Eric a dam shame this boy man is because he’s literally the definition of a joke like he dead is a non factor this point for navy as well sorry to say and I don’t think will ever get it together but that’s fine because navy has more than she needs which I love very much. I’m so ecstatic overall that michi and savvy finally have the family and close knit people that they deserved from jump and it’s up from here. I don’t wanna give away to much that I already did but I really enjoyed getting closure of my fav couple savvy and shabu and also of michi and titan both couples got the happy ever that they needed and deserved for a long time. Enjoy this read guys and get invested in this series 🩶🩶
P.s. learning about and bringing light to waardenburg syndrome was such a nice thing to read about and learn so thank you Antoinette
P.s.s. I do wish I got more insight to savvys past like about the parents more and with treasure but I feel maybe one day we will find out more maybe even w treasure maybe I’m just nosey because I wanna know more too about the other supporting characters that I peeped and hopefully we hear more on savvy shabu titan and michi as time goes that’s all I wanted to finally get off my chest
I had to remind myself Savvy and Shabu were young! The back and forth between them was so draining at times because they didn’t see the other's view but they were 19 and 23 and they have lived soo much life! We finally get the answer of what happened on the dreadful night of the party and the revelation with Jess and Relic was wild. Eric was still trash but I'm glad there’s resolve between him and Savvy. Shabu, Savvy, and Navy were so beautiful! I love them! Titan and Michi finally got it together and I’m so glad he made her go to therapy because that was the only closure she truly needed. I felt terrible for Nubia and Los and feel like more may come from that! I also feel terrible for Pierre but glad he got a chance to regroup. I still feel like there is more of his story to be told. Baby girl aka Treasure was a surprise and I’m glad that ending happened the way it did. I’m wondering if there’s a story with her to continue as well! Overall everyone got a HFN or HEA they deserved and this author truly made you realize everything isn’t what it seems and to keep an open mind with everything. This was a great series and I look forward to more from this author!
The finale was really good! The story picks up from where book two ends and I appreciated how quickly we received the results. Nett really tied this series up well, but also left the door open for spinoffs. I think Savvy & Shabu brought out the best in one another. The way Shabu was about Navy was so cute! I loved the character development and the banter and Haitian influence throughout. The best thing about this book was it felt like a community. Yes, this was Savvy & Shabu’s story but the other characters played a vital role, as well. I found myself rooting for Michi and Titan and even, Relic- which shocked me. Lol. Good work!❤️
This was a great ending to the series. I loved the love, loyalty, and growth throughout the series. Not just for the main characters but just about all of the characters had some level of growth throughout. Both Savvy and Shabu started out with the weight of the world on their shoulders and relationships that were slowly crashing and burning. Even though the back and forth in the second book was grating on my nerves I’m glad that the two hung in there and was able to learn and grow individually and collectively. Their relationship blossomed into something really special. Jessica was a trifling heaux and I wanted karma for her but I wasn’t expecting it to end the way it did for her but by any means necessary. Love Michi and Titan as the secondary storyline and want to know if Michi cured Titan’s baby fever. I’m manifesting a book on Pierre and Treasure with a reconciliation between Los and NuNu. I would throw Relic in there but bro definitely needs his own book, actually series. He had so much to unpack and hopefully he’s headed in the right direction. I would love to see him and Kennedy compare those scars.
“I’m tired of fighting with you about the small stuff. I just want the love.” “And that’s the realest shit you’ve said, Whoop. Me too.”
Wow. Shabu. Savvy. Michi. Titan. Really the whole fold. Like I can’t put into words how good this series is, and I felt like I was in a chokehold. Shabu’s realism and rudeness. Savvy’s sweet and spicy self. They were exactly what each other needed in their corner. Life had been hitting hard for Savvy and Michi, but both were determined to make it. Michi was the tough girl, but wanted love. And Titan was so patient, but persistent.
Oh! And let’s not forget about Savvy and Michi’s unbreakable bond. Like the care and protection they have for each other was so endearing. Also, I love that we got to see inside the Haitian culture through this series. These stories kept getting better and better. Can’t wait to read more this series and by this author.
This 3 book series was everything! Filled with gems, pure love, battle wounds, healing, and promises of forever. Highly Recommended & a NTMA is now a 1-Click! 💯💛💚💜
A perfect ending to my favorite series of this year. Shabu remained EVERYTHING and I’m so happy Savvy could pull herself together because she irked me soooo bad.
Relic…ugh, listen I love Relic idc what anyone says. The bad guy isn’t always the bad guy and I would love to read more about him.
Michi, Titan, Pierre, Treasure…. Yea, I feel like there’s more story there for sure.
HEA! Really enjoyed this series. The growth was amazing from everyone. But especially Michi and Relic! Didn’t think I’d like him at the end but he’s alright with me! Michi got on my nerves like girl let Titan love you!!!!!! She was a little insufferable at times, especially when it came to Savvy! But I Shabu? That’s a black king right there!
I’m glad we got to see more of Relic before his book officially starts, because from my perspective before this, that man was the devil in the flesh. Also, Michi and Titian? Definitely my favorites.
The finale was everything I expected it to be ! I was happy all the question got answer , but I also knew it wasn’t going change a thang with Sav & Shabu because they are MEANT FOR ONE Another they got each other for life !! This was bomb! & the was both love one another down! Whoop came a long way! & her growth was AMAZING TO watch unfold Hell of of them! ( but the way she accepted Treasure from the one conversation from shabu ) I was like yesss ma’am you deserve to meet another part of you) I hated that for Los & Nunu but I guess it was destined . I glad Relic started coming around a little more and the fact he has a son I know it’s going to bring out an amazing side of him. I cannot wait for his book! I know she coming with that one! I just don’t want this to end Omg! & Michi & Titian I was so freaking happy when she stopped running ( I understand but the fact she got in therapy and just allowed her self to love that made so happy cause she deserve to be love the right way! Sav & Michi relationship going always be special to me. ! But another very great read! I felt all the feels everyone you could possible think of ! WHOOP & SHABU ALWAYS & Forever! ❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Now this is how you end a series! This 3 book series was an emotional rollercoaster but it was worth it in the end! It’s crazy to see how far Savvy and Michi came. I felt like I watched them grown before my eyes! I truly became attached to the characters and I’m low-key sad that it’s over. 😭😭😭😭
Overall, I rate this 3 book series ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. These books are RAW but worth the read !
This series was my first by this author and I throughly enjoyed it. Savvy and Shabu with through ALOT early on in their relationship. After all the turmoil, I think they got what they truly deserved a Happy settled ending. Savvy and Shabu really do complement one another and have both grown together. I was so relived that Eric was the sperm donor for Navy. I just don't think I could have mentally handled Relic being the father. Eric is doing exactly what I prefer for Navy. Shabu was willing and ready and baby girl knows that Shabu is her daddy. I didn't anticipate the addition of Treasure but her being added in didn't bother me. She seems to have good intentions, so a win for Savvy is all I care about. I am so happy for Michi! She needed a win just as much as Savvy. Titan is definitely her win. He has been so patient and caring with her, He is truly teaching her how to love and receive love. These 2 give me Fancy and Jamie vibes, I can't justify it just throughly but just roll with it. Kennedy being thrown in was a surprise too, I thought she was going to have an reaction hearing about Relic and Shabu. I'm not sure if I expected her to suspect them or what. Los and Nu Nu can remain supporting characters. Although there is somethings that can be unpacked, it can happen in a Titan and Michi story.
Although it wasn't necessary, I think it would have been intriguing for us to find out something in regards to Donald's death. In my mind, seeing how the auntie reacted, allegations against Donald coming up after he passed, or even potential suspects in the killing of Donald. Again, not necessary but would have added another touch.
Things I appreciated about this Finale: 1. It felt like an appropriate ending. All of the presented issues were addressed and wrapped up. I am not left wondering about thing with Shabu and Savvy. While I can easily see how more could have been included about her dad, I didn't need that.
2. Other characters didn't over power the MAIN characters Savvy and Shabu. Antionette did an excellent job of her supporting characters remaining supporting characters. None of the of the characters dominated any one portion of the book or chapters.
3. Completing part 3 made me appreciate the growth of each of the characters. Savvy is so young but she made huge gains in her maturity, Michi started therapy and became open to love, Shabu and Relic both made growth too. I couldn't stand Relic in the beginning but I have a small soft spot for him now.
4. RESOLVE!!! It's been a rough reading summer but I appreciated all the resolved story lines. All the details and storylines were wrapped up nicely.
Additional Notes/Thoughts:
I wouldn't mind hearing from these characters in the future, but only if Savvy and Shabu aren't dragged into more traumatic events. If this universe continues, I want them to be supporting characters to Titan and Michi or Relic.
Insignificant pet peeve: I have come to hate the word "backpedaled" I've been seeing it a lot lately and I just want another descriptive word or action. I can't pinpoint many insistence where people are backpedaling in my everyday life.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Ok so, this was not my favorite book of the series but it doesn't take away that it was still a good read. Titan came through in this book. He held Michi down through it all. He knew from day one how he felt about her. But Michi came with trauma and he knew patience and consistency was the only way to capture her heart that could guide her to healing. Now he may have not gone about it so eloquently as I put it but definitely that was his mission. I was not feeling the conflict between Savvy & Shabu in the first half of the book. I thought the issue was not big enough for the push and pull they were going through, especially since they had 95% of the answers. It was unnecessary mental anguish that kept them apart as a couple and I did not like it. Their connection jumped off the pages and was expecting to read this throughout. In books 1 & 2 I could not stand Relic. I was hoping Shabu would put him down! But Ashley did an interesting thing she was able to turn this cold-hearted, gutta, grimy dude into someone that you think, ehh you don't hate so much to the level of just don't like, to ahh he has a heart, he does love his family, his family is his priority and oh I understand now he needs love, he just didn't get it from his mama. There is hope for him. In taking a deep dive into Relic's character I realized he and Shabu were the same. Shabu was a shooter, he would put you in the dirt no second thoughts. He was a watch dog, who reacted on command. If Relic says handle, he handles. What makes you love one and hate the other is that one actually shows love and the other suppresses it. Ashley introduces some new characters that are connected to the Haitian family some way or another. I predict the new characters are a set up for new books/series if Ashley has not already done it. The Art of Hood Love is the first set of books I have read by Ashley so I will have to check if my prediction is correct.
Okay in the first two books I was having a hard time and even with this one too which is why I waited to write the review once I was done with this one….This was a good read ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ initially after the second book I was thinking this series was a 3.5 at best but I can fully say I give it a whole 4 simply because everything finally came together in the end… It was so many moving parts and different character problems definitely and emotional roller coaster…However, I loved the growth of all the main characters in the end especially Relic and Michi those two had the biggest turn around in my eyes and even Pierre too…Shabu and Savvy 😍😍so glad they didn’t let the pettyness, drama, and naysayers break up their relationship and I just love how all of their kids are after his favorite color and in honor of his oldest daughter 🥰 👏🏽
This review about to be all over the place. First things first, I’m so glad Treasure didn’t have I’ll intentions. My G got her last dance and everything went way up after that!!! Definitely needed that lol. Relic changed the way I deemed about him in this book for sure!! Who is his girlfriend though?! I got a guess but I’ll have that for later. I’m glad Shabu could give big cuz peace. Is it bad I wanna see how things pan out with Pierre and Treasure. That eye contact has potential lol but she has been hanging around Lex ughhh lol. That’s it for now. Get that book ppl!!!
When I say she owes me nothing! Baby I’m not even mad we had to wait forever! This book was everything and more! She put her blood, sweat, and tears in this book! Had my emotions all up all over the place! Kept telling myself I was going to read until 50% then go to bed! That was an all out lie! Baby I was up all night literally because I couldn’t go to bed until I finished. Only to be left with! You got it questions! Phenomenal job
With some books it's hard for me to read the second or even the finale part due to the fact it can't hold my attention. That wasn't the point with this book it was so realistic I felt like I was right there with them experiencing the same things that they were feeling I really want to see more of Nunu to know what becomes of her. I loved Titan and Michie and wish they had a bigger part but I was satisfied with what I had. I need a Titan on my team.
I am so glad Shavvy and Shabu finally got it together, as well as Michi and Titan. This series had cliff hangers and me on the edge of my seat. Can't wait to see if the story continues!
I didn’t wanna read the end to Shabu and Savvy but they’ve been through enough and I’m happy my fam got their happy ending. Shabu is just one of a kind human I love everything about him. I also didn’t like how this author made me like a character I disliked like lady don’t do that! Lol but Relic had me “intrigued” that’s all I can say cause Relic gon Relic! This author supporting characters are top tier like I like ALL OF EM! Los and Nubia that’s a whole lot like are they even real? I want more of them tho! Ohhhhh and these fight scenes is unmatched like I was literally in that book swinging with them too my arm hurt now tho lmaoo but OMG I love this family. Kudos to this author for ending a series on a good note!!!
Loved this series. Yes my empathetic self was in my feelings the whole time. Now I must say I was a lil shocked about baby sis even though it kinda fell in place once she came back. Great ending!