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In the Midst of Hell
I'm weak. I sacrifice myself for others and sip their poison with a smile. Then he walked into my life and shattered the invisible walls of misery that surrounded me. But will he stick around long enough for me to free myself? I'm the jokester, the one who always wears a smile. The pretty playboy who never takes anything seriously. Until her. With her wearing her pain as easily as a smile, I was drawn. Proverbial moth to a flame. And it didn’t matter if I got burned because I would set hell on fire to make her mine. But will she be strong enough to fight for us? First came chaos, then justice, and now the family must travel to Hell for their revenge.
381 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 14, 2023
69 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
August 20, 2023
On my goodness
I am not sure I will ever get enough of these family and friends vigilantes. I can not imagine the things Persephone endured at the hands of an old kodger without a soul. And his son, the cousins, and the town's folks were all shrouded in hatred. It took a few heroes, Priest, Midas, and the Hawaiian to bring down the pack of fools. The Diallo's never give in and never back down. Kyan was the one I cannot recall in the previous books. However, I think, he was the perfect leading man for this story. His seriousness, witty side, and his dry jokes kept me laughing. His character lightened the story to take away some of the sting of the hatred thrust upon Persephone. I will be back for more Diallo magic.
I am not sure I will ever get enough of these family and friends vigilantes. I can not imagine the things Persephone endured at the hands of an old kodger without a soul. And his son, the cousins, and the town's folks were all shrouded in hatred. It took a few heroes, Priest, Midas, and the Hawaiian to bring down the pack of fools. The Diallo's never give in and never back down. Kyan was the one I cannot recall in the previous books. However, I think, he was the perfect leading man for this story. His seriousness, witty side, and his dry jokes kept me laughing. His character lightened the story to take away some of the sting of the hatred thrust upon Persephone. I will be back for more Diallo magic.
September 19, 2024
5 😥🤗😍😜😅💀
Check Content Warnings
Trope: Black Love, one night stand, soulmate, revenge, family secrets
Enjoyment: 5 ⭐
Character development: 4 ⭐
Emotional: 3 ⭐
Sweet: 4 ⭐
Romance: 3 ⭐
Heat\steam: 3.5 ⭐
Intrigue: 4 ⭐
Action: 3 ⭐
Violence: 4 ⭐
Story\plot: 4.5 ⭐
World Building: 4 ⭐
Enjoy!!!
Check Content Warnings
Trope: Black Love, one night stand, soulmate, revenge, family secrets
Enjoyment: 5 ⭐
Character development: 4 ⭐
Emotional: 3 ⭐
Sweet: 4 ⭐
Romance: 3 ⭐
Heat\steam: 3.5 ⭐
Intrigue: 4 ⭐
Action: 3 ⭐
Violence: 4 ⭐
Story\plot: 4.5 ⭐
World Building: 4 ⭐
Enjoy!!!
June 11, 2024
Well
I must say this one had more dialogue. Much better. I didn't like all the extra chapters for characters that weren't needed. They could have been left out. I am glad that revenge was given.
I must say this one had more dialogue. Much better. I didn't like all the extra chapters for characters that weren't needed. They could have been left out. I am glad that revenge was given.
May 30, 2025
Another one....
Great read!!!! This was another great read by Dandridge. As the saga continues so does the drama!!! The nerve of her momma!!!! I'm still learning things. Y'all just read the damn book.
Great read!!!! This was another great read by Dandridge. As the saga continues so does the drama!!! The nerve of her momma!!!! I'm still learning things. Y'all just read the damn book.
September 5, 2023
Satisfaction Guaran-teed
Whew! I went into this book with a mental list of all the things I desired and required and this book provides all the things!
Kyan and Persephone get to HEA. Check. All sorts of earthly angel mentions? 🥰 Check! Twins, famous names, comic book references everywhere? Yep! Kyan is a comic bae❤️. Chelle sneaky link confirmed? Check! New/side connects setting up for what seems to be hijinks and mayhem series? Check!
A gun and proposal a perfect combination? Check, Check!🩸 An infamous stiletto blade appearance? Gleeful checky-check!!🩸🩸 Filet-o-fish? All swine 🤣round up? Yes! 🤯🩸🩸🩸🔥
This storyline closes but the criminal enterprise exposes another level…I can’t wait to learn about Owo, Xerc, Li, Ori, Priest and Nyima, dare I say it…Isis, Steven Jr., Sasha, Chelle, Siah, and the silent ones…Jah and Asha?
And with all of these old/new characters…the reason to read and what I love is 1) Throughout all of the books, you meet, laugh, scream, groan and root for these characters and as they work out issues and grow but the essence of who they are doesn’t (hasn’t) change and that is a testament to the creator of this world. 2) The depictions of love and what ‘I got you” looks like is in your face and it’s just awesome - whether for your mate, family members, friends and community. It balanced the storyline well especially with Kyan’s quips. Onward to Owo!
Whew! I went into this book with a mental list of all the things I desired and required and this book provides all the things!
Kyan and Persephone get to HEA. Check. All sorts of earthly angel mentions? 🥰 Check! Twins, famous names, comic book references everywhere? Yep! Kyan is a comic bae❤️. Chelle sneaky link confirmed? Check! New/side connects setting up for what seems to be hijinks and mayhem series? Check!
A gun and proposal a perfect combination? Check, Check!🩸 An infamous stiletto blade appearance? Gleeful checky-check!!🩸🩸 Filet-o-fish? All swine 🤣round up? Yes! 🤯🩸🩸🩸🔥
This storyline closes but the criminal enterprise exposes another level…I can’t wait to learn about Owo, Xerc, Li, Ori, Priest and Nyima, dare I say it…Isis, Steven Jr., Sasha, Chelle, Siah, and the silent ones…Jah and Asha?
And with all of these old/new characters…the reason to read and what I love is 1) Throughout all of the books, you meet, laugh, scream, groan and root for these characters and as they work out issues and grow but the essence of who they are doesn’t (hasn’t) change and that is a testament to the creator of this world. 2) The depictions of love and what ‘I got you” looks like is in your face and it’s just awesome - whether for your mate, family members, friends and community. It balanced the storyline well especially with Kyan’s quips. Onward to Owo!
September 26, 2023
heavy is the weight on the shoulders of do-gooders
This third book in the series was a wild ride filled with angst, destruction, despair, chaos, fear, love and more. There was so many moving pieces that when all was finally revealed my mouth was on the floor!
Kyan the baby boy was the main Diallo this time and he didn’t disappoint. His chill and jovial demeanor always clashed with the personalities of his family because he joked, spoke his mind, and irritated them so much that even his parents questioned if he was dropped on his head as a baby. He cracked me up! He was also sensitive, caring and protective.
Persephone had a lot with her. She needed saving but she was no where near being ready and willing to accept it. She was going through alot and didn’t see a way out - just resigned to her current life.
These two encounter each other and it was no letting go.
In the midst of going through and being in the midst of literal hell, somehow they became what each other needed.
The things that these city leaders, officials, police and the privileged were participating in was sick! Their depraivity ran deep and went in for years.
I have to read the other books by the author to get to know all of the side characters that aided the Diallo’s in taking down the evil and racist people and their agenda.
Excellent read!
This third book in the series was a wild ride filled with angst, destruction, despair, chaos, fear, love and more. There was so many moving pieces that when all was finally revealed my mouth was on the floor!
Kyan the baby boy was the main Diallo this time and he didn’t disappoint. His chill and jovial demeanor always clashed with the personalities of his family because he joked, spoke his mind, and irritated them so much that even his parents questioned if he was dropped on his head as a baby. He cracked me up! He was also sensitive, caring and protective.
Persephone had a lot with her. She needed saving but she was no where near being ready and willing to accept it. She was going through alot and didn’t see a way out - just resigned to her current life.
These two encounter each other and it was no letting go.
In the midst of going through and being in the midst of literal hell, somehow they became what each other needed.
The things that these city leaders, officials, police and the privileged were participating in was sick! Their depraivity ran deep and went in for years.
I have to read the other books by the author to get to know all of the side characters that aided the Diallo’s in taking down the evil and racist people and their agenda.
Excellent read!
August 23, 2023
Make sure to read the books in order
I feel like I was at disadvantage & was easily confused when reading this book because I’ve only read the previous 2 books in this series & Midas’s book. Other characters from her other books had their own chapters & took up a good portion of this book but because I wasn’t already familiar with their story it was kind of confusing HOWEVER this book still gets 4 stars from me based off the relationship between Seph & Kyan & that this book kind of wraps up the plots from the previous two books (& some of the plots from other books by this author). I will say Persephone did get on my nerves & I hate to tell her that I told her so in regards to her mama but she should’ve listened instead of making me mad 🙄😂 Anyway, I can’t wait for Messiah & Nichelles story cause they gotta get one because we lost on when they started messing around.
I feel like I was at disadvantage & was easily confused when reading this book because I’ve only read the previous 2 books in this series & Midas’s book. Other characters from her other books had their own chapters & took up a good portion of this book but because I wasn’t already familiar with their story it was kind of confusing HOWEVER this book still gets 4 stars from me based off the relationship between Seph & Kyan & that this book kind of wraps up the plots from the previous two books (& some of the plots from other books by this author). I will say Persephone did get on my nerves & I hate to tell her that I told her so in regards to her mama but she should’ve listened instead of making me mad 🙄😂 Anyway, I can’t wait for Messiah & Nichelles story cause they gotta get one because we lost on when they started messing around.
December 4, 2023
From hell to heaven
This story is not for the weak, but Persephone and her sister are some strong women. Surviving what supposed to have broken them. But when Persephone had to fight her way out of her situation, she did it and was finally able to go to the one who held her heart. It was disheartened to them to learn about their parents and the disgusting and vile things being done but they ended up with a family that they chose and had their back, front, and sides. Persephone finally came out of the midst of hell and landed in the her heaven, her safe haven.
This story is not for the weak, but Persephone and her sister are some strong women. Surviving what supposed to have broken them. But when Persephone had to fight her way out of her situation, she did it and was finally able to go to the one who held her heart. It was disheartened to them to learn about their parents and the disgusting and vile things being done but they ended up with a family that they chose and had their back, front, and sides. Persephone finally came out of the midst of hell and landed in the her heaven, her safe haven.
August 5, 2024
Just read it!
The way this story continues to unfold is amazing. Kyan and Persephone have met on crazy circumstances and their worlds collide but all ties into the same twisted people that tried to kill his brothers cop girlfriend and set up his other brothers wife. The Diallo family proved once again that they would go to the depths of hell for their family and the ones they love. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for book four. What Diallo brother will fall next and who else could they possibly have to take out?!? We shall see.
The way this story continues to unfold is amazing. Kyan and Persephone have met on crazy circumstances and their worlds collide but all ties into the same twisted people that tried to kill his brothers cop girlfriend and set up his other brothers wife. The Diallo family proved once again that they would go to the depths of hell for their family and the ones they love. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for book four. What Diallo brother will fall next and who else could they possibly have to take out?!? We shall see.
December 2, 2024
Loved It
Great read, so please, with Kyan growth! Love Diallo family, baby they Rick for their own! Percy went through more than a little bit, but she was strong and overcame a lot! People who are supposed to give you unconditional love, turning their back on you, are hurtful and deceitful, which can be your heart to stone!
More relationships developed,but nothing was more pleasing than those of thwm.whwo did the most egregious a ts were dealt with! I just want to see Nichelle and Messiah make it...
Great read, so please, with Kyan growth! Love Diallo family, baby they Rick for their own! Percy went through more than a little bit, but she was strong and overcame a lot! People who are supposed to give you unconditional love, turning their back on you, are hurtful and deceitful, which can be your heart to stone!
More relationships developed,but nothing was more pleasing than those of thwm.whwo did the most egregious a ts were dealt with! I just want to see Nichelle and Messiah make it...
November 9, 2025
Three brothers on top
Finding the family that you lost, learning about the family that never meant you any good and inheriting a family that will forever stand behind you. Seph went through it all but that Kyran wasn’t playing about his feelings for her. This family is tired of being tired and fighting back that best way they know how. Surprised to see how Priest came to be with Ny, how Coby dealt with that problem that Mina had. This was a wild ride a bit too long and drawn out but a wild good ride nonetheless.
Finding the family that you lost, learning about the family that never meant you any good and inheriting a family that will forever stand behind you. Seph went through it all but that Kyran wasn’t playing about his feelings for her. This family is tired of being tired and fighting back that best way they know how. Surprised to see how Priest came to be with Ny, how Coby dealt with that problem that Mina had. This was a wild ride a bit too long and drawn out but a wild good ride nonetheless.
October 16, 2023
The twist and turns
For Diana and Seph to find out that all along their whole life was a lie and their mother was behind it all. Now that was a plot twist I was not expecting so I can see now that there is more to come. Overall I like how Seph finally realized she needed to fight for herself and know that her boo Kyan will be there with the Calvary. Can't wait to see what else happens with this group
For Diana and Seph to find out that all along their whole life was a lie and their mother was behind it all. Now that was a plot twist I was not expecting so I can see now that there is more to come. Overall I like how Seph finally realized she needed to fight for herself and know that her boo Kyan will be there with the Calvary. Can't wait to see what else happens with this group
October 20, 2025
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Love it. I enjoyed hearing how some characters from other series were intertwined in this series. It was awesome.
I love seeing how Kyan showed a series side and found love. Although his journey was traumatic, he never gave up. The way the men support each other was awesome.
Now Messiah’s secret was shocking but I wasn’t surprised. I hope there’s a book on him and he rekindle what he messed up.
Love it. I enjoyed hearing how some characters from other series were intertwined in this series. It was awesome.
I love seeing how Kyan showed a series side and found love. Although his journey was traumatic, he never gave up. The way the men support each other was awesome.
Now Messiah’s secret was shocking but I wasn’t surprised. I hope there’s a book on him and he rekindle what he messed up.
August 18, 2023
love love love
I guess you can say that I am a forever Dandridge Monroe stannn because the way every single book of hers just is a masterpiece in its own right. We get love, drama, mystery, and new found family that sticks together! I can’t wait to read the rest of this family’s story!
I guess you can say that I am a forever Dandridge Monroe stannn because the way every single book of hers just is a masterpiece in its own right. We get love, drama, mystery, and new found family that sticks together! I can’t wait to read the rest of this family’s story!
January 9, 2024
It was good...but daaaaaaarrrrk!
It was good to see some much needed conclusions. But this book needed to come with a violence warning.
It was beautiful to see Kyan and Persephone's story unfold. She deserves love. It was even better to see Diana get the answers and justice she deserves.
It was good to see some much needed conclusions. But this book needed to come with a violence warning.
It was beautiful to see Kyan and Persephone's story unfold. She deserves love. It was even better to see Diana get the answers and justice she deserves.
March 30, 2024
tv series is needed
All of Dandridge Monroe’s books need to be made into a tv series. Preferably on Netflix or prime video. The characters are so complete! I’m addicted. On to the next book in this series!
All of Dandridge Monroe’s books need to be made into a tv series. Preferably on Netflix or prime video. The characters are so complete! I’m addicted. On to the next book in this series!
July 6, 2024
great end
I love how the story came all together even though it seems like more to come with the new introductions! I also wanna know about Messiah and Nichelle! I knew it was some but now I need a deep
dive!
I love how the story came all together even though it seems like more to come with the new introductions! I also wanna know about Messiah and Nichelle! I knew it was some but now I need a deep
dive!
August 17, 2023
hell is hot
I hope all of them are enjoying their own personal h$**. Just pure evil. Kyan is bae! I was happy to see part of the gang coming together for good.
I hope all of them are enjoying their own personal h$**. Just pure evil. Kyan is bae! I was happy to see part of the gang coming together for good.
November 26, 2024
🔥🔥🔥
This was soo damn good! Ok I loved it soo damn much Kyan is the gentleman we know him to be. And Percy was definitely meant to be.
This was soo damn good! Ok I loved it soo damn much Kyan is the gentleman we know him to be. And Percy was definitely meant to be.
November 26, 2025
The title speaks for itself
This was one of the heaviest books but still so much love wrapped into it. The Dialo brothers aren’t to be played with
This was one of the heaviest books but still so much love wrapped into it. The Dialo brothers aren’t to be played with
June 6, 2025
Perfect Closure
This is a hard book to rate. It's a story that is as always with Dandridge Monroe, well written and thorough. The biggest hold up is in what you expect in this book and the purpose for reading. This book is the culmination of a lot of story lines and various mini-side series folding into one. It's a book hard to enjoy unless you have relationships with all of the moving pieces. As a series hopper, I've moved here and there and everywhere in this author's back list. I've read books out of order. So my thoughts are this.
🫶🏿We get this romance with KyKy and Persophone. It was a decent romance but I'm glad it wasn't isolated to just them. They were good in the doses we received but for me I was ready to get to my personal big draw.
🫶🏿As an In the Midst of... series book it shines fairly bright. Again it finally closes a lot of the gaps and gives us the revenge we have been hurting for since book 1.
🫶🏿If you read Beauty and the Blerd or the Real Negus series then you already know some key players, you will have a beautiful closure for Man Genius and his beauty with the rose tattoo. Adam and Diana just are a wonderful breathe of fresh air. I loved it.
🫶🏿Book 2: In the Midst of series felt like a major disappointment. It was all build-up, moving pieces, background and set it. We didn't get any satisfying payoff. But here, here we do and we get some gems in the process. Some of the players introduced were nice! Some of the callbacks felt full circle.
Overall: Now. I am prepared to dig in and reread Priest. I felt like this read was the perfect bridge to start Phase 2 of the author's back list and catalog (Just personal feelings I consider Book 4: In the Midst of Pain through Gaisgeach as Phase 2, while Black Gold Valley: Sampson and Shâhzâdeh as the beginning of Phase 3). The author is legit and Phase 2 will only crescendo.
This is a hard book to rate. It's a story that is as always with Dandridge Monroe, well written and thorough. The biggest hold up is in what you expect in this book and the purpose for reading. This book is the culmination of a lot of story lines and various mini-side series folding into one. It's a book hard to enjoy unless you have relationships with all of the moving pieces. As a series hopper, I've moved here and there and everywhere in this author's back list. I've read books out of order. So my thoughts are this.
🫶🏿We get this romance with KyKy and Persophone. It was a decent romance but I'm glad it wasn't isolated to just them. They were good in the doses we received but for me I was ready to get to my personal big draw.
🫶🏿As an In the Midst of... series book it shines fairly bright. Again it finally closes a lot of the gaps and gives us the revenge we have been hurting for since book 1.
🫶🏿If you read Beauty and the Blerd or the Real Negus series then you already know some key players, you will have a beautiful closure for Man Genius and his beauty with the rose tattoo. Adam and Diana just are a wonderful breathe of fresh air. I loved it.
🫶🏿Book 2: In the Midst of series felt like a major disappointment. It was all build-up, moving pieces, background and set it. We didn't get any satisfying payoff. But here, here we do and we get some gems in the process. Some of the players introduced were nice! Some of the callbacks felt full circle.
Overall: Now. I am prepared to dig in and reread Priest. I felt like this read was the perfect bridge to start Phase 2 of the author's back list and catalog (Just personal feelings I consider Book 4: In the Midst of Pain through Gaisgeach as Phase 2, while Black Gold Valley: Sampson and Shâhzâdeh as the beginning of Phase 3). The author is legit and Phase 2 will only crescendo.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews