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The Girl From Englewood: An Urban Romance
Reason defied the odds. She climbed the ladder of success, despite being a black woman from one of Chicago’s most notorious neighborhoods. Her professional life shines brightly as an Emergency Room physician. But her love life is in shambles. After divorcing her controlling, narcissistic husband, she’s only encountered men that are just like him, who are intimidated by her success. But as soon as she gives up on love, she meets Lake, a single-father, with a checkered past, that oozes swag and dominance.
Lake and Reason's lives collide in a heart-stopping encounter when Lake becomes Reason’s unlikely savior. Destiny intertwines their paths, sparking an instant and intense connection that neither of them saw coming.
However, their budding romance is swiftly threatened by crippling external forces. Reason finds herself trapped in a web of manipulation as her ex-husband continues his attempts to destroy her. Shocking revelations from Lake’s past and disloyalty shatters his relationships with those he trusted. As his world crumbles, he fights to rebuild the shattered pieces of his life. Yet, amidst the chaos consuming their lives, Lake and Reason cling to their love for one another.
Just when Lake and Reason believe they can overcome the challenges, tragedy strikes both of them with devastating force. Their lives are thrown into disarray, and their budding romance hangs in the balance.
Lake and Reason's lives collide in a heart-stopping encounter when Lake becomes Reason’s unlikely savior. Destiny intertwines their paths, sparking an instant and intense connection that neither of them saw coming.
However, their budding romance is swiftly threatened by crippling external forces. Reason finds herself trapped in a web of manipulation as her ex-husband continues his attempts to destroy her. Shocking revelations from Lake’s past and disloyalty shatters his relationships with those he trusted. As his world crumbles, he fights to rebuild the shattered pieces of his life. Yet, amidst the chaos consuming their lives, Lake and Reason cling to their love for one another.
Just when Lake and Reason believe they can overcome the challenges, tragedy strikes both of them with devastating force. Their lives are thrown into disarray, and their budding romance hangs in the balance.
- GenresAfrican American Romance
432 pages, Paperback
Published August 16, 2023
About the author
Jessica N. Watkins
70 books1,334 followersAuthor of Urban Chick Lit, Erotica, and Contemporary Urban Fiction... Jessica N. Watkins was born April 1st in Chicago, Illinois. She obtained a Bachelors of Arts with Focus in Psychology from DePaul University and Masters of Applied Professional Studies with focus in Business Administration from the like institution. Working in Hospital Administration for the majority of her career, Watkins has also been an author of fiction literature since the young age of nine. Eventually she used writing as an outlet during her freshmen year of high school as a single parent: “In the third grade I entered a short story contest with a fiction tale of an apple tree that refused to grow despite the efforts of the darling main character. My writing evolved from apple trees to my seventh and eighth grade classmates paying me to read novels I had written about kids our age living the lives our parents wouldn’t dare let us”. At the age of twenty-eight, Watkins’ chronicles have matured into steamy, humorous, and realistic tales of women's literature. She hopes that The Epitome of Femistry series will successfully emulate ideal femininity while tackling stereotypes, familiar heartache, and relatable distress in a humorous, sophisticated, and erotic fashion.
Jessica N. Watkins is available for talks, workshops or book signings. Email her for more information at Jessica@femistrypress.net.
Additional information can be found at www.jessica-n-watkins.com.
Follow Jessica on Twitter - @authorjwatkins.
Follow Jessica on Facebook- http://www.facebook.com/authorjwatkins
Jessica N. Watkins is available for talks, workshops or book signings. Email her for more information at Jessica@femistrypress.net.
Additional information can be found at www.jessica-n-watkins.com.
Follow Jessica on Twitter - @authorjwatkins.
Follow Jessica on Facebook- http://www.facebook.com/authorjwatkins
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
September 2, 2023
🛑 🛑🛑SPOILERS IN THE COMMENTS🛑🛑🛑
“In the midst of chaos, I knew deep down that something truly extraordinary was happening.”
And did!!!! Where do I even begin!!!!!!!!!!! 😩🫨🤯 If you’ve ever read a Jessica N. Watkins book then you know to expect the unexpected and chyyyyy this one here was no different! I am utterly SPEECHLESS do you hear me?!?!!! Stick a fork in me because I am done! This book had me in DEEP from page ONE!!!!!!!! 😩😰😳
Growing up on the southwest side of Chicago in the neighborhood of Englewood, Reason was always labeled a goodie two shoes or boujee know it all because she came from a loving two parent household that had her best interest at the forefront of their minds. As a now successful emergency room doctor she is constantly met with snide “are you a nurse” comments or side eyes in a attempt to belittle her success and diminish her light as a doctor. While it may cause defeat to creep in every so often, she continues to ooze black girl magic!
Not only has a war been waged against her success, she is also at war with her narcissistic ex husband. After he was no longer able to control her, he hit her where it hurt by taking her children from her by way of the court system. Despite so many odds stacked against her, she still manages to shine bright like a diamond!
After the loss of a patient, she is out in the parking lot attempting to clear her mind when she crosses paths with a sexy, confident and alluring man that has her totally captivated. Before words can be shared, a scene of events quickly unfolds that leads to her mystery man saving her life.
Lake is a single father that is determined to stay on the straight and narrow. As a former dope boy, he realized that he wanted to set a better example for his kids and decided to exit the game, make some lucrative investments, return to school for his degree and is now working as the Dean of a prominent high school.
Lake had no idea that during that fateful night, his life would never be the same again. Reason and Lake bonded over what happened in that parking lot and witnessing their blossoming love was beautiful!
This book takes you on so many twists and turns and if you’re a cry baby like me, tears will be shed! Some things I expected while others caught me completely off guard! This book is sure to keep you on your toes and is one you definitely want on your TBR and download on your Kindle! Don’t sleep on this one!
“In the midst of chaos, I knew deep down that something truly extraordinary was happening.”
And did!!!! Where do I even begin!!!!!!!!!!! 😩🫨🤯 If you’ve ever read a Jessica N. Watkins book then you know to expect the unexpected and chyyyyy this one here was no different! I am utterly SPEECHLESS do you hear me?!?!!! Stick a fork in me because I am done! This book had me in DEEP from page ONE!!!!!!!! 😩😰😳
Growing up on the southwest side of Chicago in the neighborhood of Englewood, Reason was always labeled a goodie two shoes or boujee know it all because she came from a loving two parent household that had her best interest at the forefront of their minds. As a now successful emergency room doctor she is constantly met with snide “are you a nurse” comments or side eyes in a attempt to belittle her success and diminish her light as a doctor. While it may cause defeat to creep in every so often, she continues to ooze black girl magic!
Not only has a war been waged against her success, she is also at war with her narcissistic ex husband. After he was no longer able to control her, he hit her where it hurt by taking her children from her by way of the court system. Despite so many odds stacked against her, she still manages to shine bright like a diamond!
After the loss of a patient, she is out in the parking lot attempting to clear her mind when she crosses paths with a sexy, confident and alluring man that has her totally captivated. Before words can be shared, a scene of events quickly unfolds that leads to her mystery man saving her life.
Lake is a single father that is determined to stay on the straight and narrow. As a former dope boy, he realized that he wanted to set a better example for his kids and decided to exit the game, make some lucrative investments, return to school for his degree and is now working as the Dean of a prominent high school.
Lake had no idea that during that fateful night, his life would never be the same again. Reason and Lake bonded over what happened in that parking lot and witnessing their blossoming love was beautiful!
This book takes you on so many twists and turns and if you’re a cry baby like me, tears will be shed! Some things I expected while others caught me completely off guard! This book is sure to keep you on your toes and is one you definitely want on your TBR and download on your Kindle! Don’t sleep on this one!
September 3, 2023
Super Dope Read
This book had me at the prologue. Not only does this book start off with action and drama but it’s pretty much consistent throughout the whole book. Lake and Reason meet and before he can even shoot his shot good, he has to rescue her from an unforeseen event. Lake was in the streets heavy but was able to make a change for the better. With all the progress and good he’s doing, he wasn’t ready for karma to send that boomerang around when she did. While dating and getting to know each other, the couple has one obstacle after another thrown at them. Tori and Rich are secondary characters in the story but their story is just as drama filled as the main characters. Tori is one of Reason’s best friends and finds herself wishing she could break away from her narcissist husband and their marriage. Sophie and Abony are also friends of Reason and Sophie and are prominent characters in the story with Sophie’s relationship being another aspect of the story and Abony being a very single, supportive and present friend. Super dope read, check it
This book had me at the prologue. Not only does this book start off with action and drama but it’s pretty much consistent throughout the whole book. Lake and Reason meet and before he can even shoot his shot good, he has to rescue her from an unforeseen event. Lake was in the streets heavy but was able to make a change for the better. With all the progress and good he’s doing, he wasn’t ready for karma to send that boomerang around when she did. While dating and getting to know each other, the couple has one obstacle after another thrown at them. Tori and Rich are secondary characters in the story but their story is just as drama filled as the main characters. Tori is one of Reason’s best friends and finds herself wishing she could break away from her narcissist husband and their marriage. Sophie and Abony are also friends of Reason and Sophie and are prominent characters in the story with Sophie’s relationship being another aspect of the story and Abony being a very single, supportive and present friend. Super dope read, check it
August 28, 2023
4.5 ⭐️
I did not expect to love this story as much as I did. It was so good, I don’t even know where to start.
Reason Hopkins was an ER doctor (and still very much a hot girl lol) from Englewood in Chicago. Lake Dixon was a reformed street pharmacist. He had given up his life in the streets and was a Dean at a high school. Reason was divorced from a total narcissist who had taken full custody of her kids. He was horrible. Lake was a single father of 2.
One day after a tough day in the ER, Reason runs into Lake. Just as he was about to holla at her- something happens and he ends up saving her life. The two have been rocking ever since. I won’t lie - at first I thought maybe Reason had some type of hero complex because Lake had saved her but they needed each other. The love was real and I was into it.
Reason had an amazing group of girlfriends. They all had dealt with or were dealing with HORRIBLE men. I loved how they supported and loved on one another. When tragedy strikes, the ladies become closer than ever.
No matter how bad Lake wanted to leave his old life behind, it seemed like trouble always found him. There was always something but he and Reason weathered every storm together. Loved these two together.
I did not expect to love this story as much as I did. It was so good, I don’t even know where to start.
Reason Hopkins was an ER doctor (and still very much a hot girl lol) from Englewood in Chicago. Lake Dixon was a reformed street pharmacist. He had given up his life in the streets and was a Dean at a high school. Reason was divorced from a total narcissist who had taken full custody of her kids. He was horrible. Lake was a single father of 2.
One day after a tough day in the ER, Reason runs into Lake. Just as he was about to holla at her- something happens and he ends up saving her life. The two have been rocking ever since. I won’t lie - at first I thought maybe Reason had some type of hero complex because Lake had saved her but they needed each other. The love was real and I was into it.
Reason had an amazing group of girlfriends. They all had dealt with or were dealing with HORRIBLE men. I loved how they supported and loved on one another. When tragedy strikes, the ladies become closer than ever.
No matter how bad Lake wanted to leave his old life behind, it seemed like trouble always found him. There was always something but he and Reason weathered every storm together. Loved these two together.
September 5, 2024
This book was good! It was dramatic, sweet, heart-wrenching, relatable, emotional, and well written. The storyline was realistic and relatable. The character development was perfect and set at a good pace. I, legit, shed a couple of real tears in a certain part of the book. That’s how well the author developed the characters and told their stories. I felt emotionally connected to the characters (the good ones) and cared about their experiences and their feelings.
This book showed that it is possible to find a healthy love after a traumatic/toxic relationship. This book also demonstrated how our choices and actions can have devastating consequences. This book included abuse, tragedy, devastating losses, hard life lessons, restoration, healing, and faith among other important messages.
This book showed that it is possible to find a healthy love after a traumatic/toxic relationship. This book also demonstrated how our choices and actions can have devastating consequences. This book included abuse, tragedy, devastating losses, hard life lessons, restoration, healing, and faith among other important messages.
September 14, 2023
4.75 ⭐️
This book was really good. it took a little minute to get through b/c life but I was finished with it before I knew it. I will say I haven’t had a book that had me this tight post 70% since Moth to a Flame 😭😭😭 The characters (especially those two idiots 🙄) really had me feeling like that tik tok sound "stop hiding! you hiding foreva! ricky, when I catch you, ricky. Ricky when I catch you ricky. (4x)". yeah, that. because dude could not get away w/ that.
it was fye as hell though, Lake and Reason are lovely and they love each other bad. I’ll definitely be reading more from the author.
This book was really good. it took a little minute to get through b/c life but I was finished with it before I knew it. I will say I haven’t had a book that had me this tight post 70% since Moth to a Flame 😭😭😭 The characters (especially those two idiots 🙄) really had me feeling like that tik tok sound "stop hiding! you hiding foreva! ricky, when I catch you, ricky. Ricky when I catch you ricky. (4x)". yeah, that. because dude could not get away w/ that.
it was fye as hell though, Lake and Reason are lovely and they love each other bad. I’ll definitely be reading more from the author.
November 9, 2023
Can’t put in words how good this was. First read by this author and definitely won’t be the last!
September 2, 2023
This book had me at the prologue. Not only does this book start off with action and drama but it’s pretty much consistent throughout the whole book. Lake and Reason meet and before he can even shoot his shot good, he rescues her from an unforeseen event. Lake was in the streets heavy but was able to make a change for the better. With all the progress and good he’s doing, he wasn’t ready for karma to send that boomerang when she did. While dating and getting to know each other, the couple has one obstacle after another thrown at them. Tori and Rich are secondary characters in the story but their story is just as drama filled as the main characters. Tori is one of Reason’s best friends and finds herself wishing she could break away from her narcissist husband and their marriage. Sophie and Abony are also friends of Reason and Sophie and prominent characters in the story with Sophie’s relationship being another aspect of the story and Abony being a very single, supportive and present friend. Super dope read, check it
August 29, 2023
Amazing love story! Beginning to end
This book was the bomb! From the beginning it sucked me in wanting to read more, I love how Reason and Lake’s love story started and unfolded and how they stood strong with one another through the downs. The drama surrounding them didn’t bust their love bubble and I absolutely loved Reason’s friendships, a true definition of sisterhood! I don’t wanna spoil the story but you’ll definitely need you a strong drink with this one! Jessica did her big one with this.
This book was the bomb! From the beginning it sucked me in wanting to read more, I love how Reason and Lake’s love story started and unfolded and how they stood strong with one another through the downs. The drama surrounding them didn’t bust their love bubble and I absolutely loved Reason’s friendships, a true definition of sisterhood! I don’t wanna spoil the story but you’ll definitely need you a strong drink with this one! Jessica did her big one with this.
September 9, 2023
Contemporary romance 😍..... loved it
Ok.... this book here is a 5 🌟 read! I was shocked that this was a Jessica watkins book. It's a contemporary romance through and through. It hits every emotion.... i sheded 2 thug tears 😢.
I loved the relationship that Lake and Reason had, it was chemistry from 1st interaction.... it was honest and consistent. Now Camden worked every part of my nerves! And Madison was doing the most! Would love an update of Sophie and Abony.
Ok.... this book here is a 5 🌟 read! I was shocked that this was a Jessica watkins book. It's a contemporary romance through and through. It hits every emotion.... i sheded 2 thug tears 😢.
I loved the relationship that Lake and Reason had, it was chemistry from 1st interaction.... it was honest and consistent. Now Camden worked every part of my nerves! And Madison was doing the most! Would love an update of Sophie and Abony.
September 30, 2023
Lake and Reason’s chemistry was smoking from the moment they met…very good read…Camden and Rich…deserved more than what they received. 4.5 stars
September 9, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wow!
The prologue set the whole tone of the book. It completely had me on edge, because I knew that moment was going to happen. Probably 65-70% in, I knew what was unfolding. But my goodness when it happened. It felt like my stomach dropped. I had become so emotionally invested in each of the ladies, that it just knocked the wind out of my sails.
I was mad at Rea’s lack of reaction, but it was a no win situation.
Rich and Camden got off too easy. Hell even Diddy’s karma felt like vindication.
This was my first read by this author, it cannot be the last. I had no idea she was writing like this! 🗣️ Sis! This was some good storytelling. Had me up after 4-5 hours of sleep needing to finish this.
Update: there were some holes that I wished would’ve been addressed. And I really wanted to see Sophie bounce back on Quan no good ass. While this story was mostly about Reason and Lake. It was also very much about each of the journey of the friends. They all had a man related issue in common throughout. So I would’ve like to get some closure regarding that. Like what happened to Drake?! He was a part of the reason I felt so sad. There was so much promise there. Ugh!!
Wow!
The prologue set the whole tone of the book. It completely had me on edge, because I knew that moment was going to happen. Probably 65-70% in, I knew what was unfolding. But my goodness when it happened. It felt like my stomach dropped. I had become so emotionally invested in each of the ladies, that it just knocked the wind out of my sails.
I was mad at Rea’s lack of reaction, but it was a no win situation.
Rich and Camden got off too easy. Hell even Diddy’s karma felt like vindication.
This was my first read by this author, it cannot be the last. I had no idea she was writing like this! 🗣️ Sis! This was some good storytelling. Had me up after 4-5 hours of sleep needing to finish this.
Update: there were some holes that I wished would’ve been addressed. And I really wanted to see Sophie bounce back on Quan no good ass. While this story was mostly about Reason and Lake. It was also very much about each of the journey of the friends. They all had a man related issue in common throughout. So I would’ve like to get some closure regarding that. Like what happened to Drake?! He was a part of the reason I felt so sad. There was so much promise there. Ugh!!
November 16, 2023
REASON AND LAKE❤️
This was an excellent standalone that had my attention and interest from the prologue. It was very well written with a great storyline and character development. Reason went through a lot with Camden, but she never gave up hope that one day, her relationships with her kids would be how it used to especially with Madison. Lake coming into her life was the new beginning she needed in starting over. Lake did not play when it came to Reason, and Camden had to learn the hard way. There were some emotional moments, but in the end, Reason and Lake were meant to be, and I loved their blended family dynamic.
This was an excellent standalone that had my attention and interest from the prologue. It was very well written with a great storyline and character development. Reason went through a lot with Camden, but she never gave up hope that one day, her relationships with her kids would be how it used to especially with Madison. Lake coming into her life was the new beginning she needed in starting over. Lake did not play when it came to Reason, and Camden had to learn the hard way. There were some emotional moments, but in the end, Reason and Lake were meant to be, and I loved their blended family dynamic.
August 28, 2023
Reason and Lake
This was my first read from Jessica Watkins and I will be reading more. I was engaged the whole book. I loved Lake until he started pushing Reason away. I liked that Reason bossed up on Camden when it came to her children. Madison irked my soul about 80% of the book but I knew her father was manipulating her. Overall 4.5/5 because it took too long to wrap up the conflicts. But definitely worth the read.
This was my first read from Jessica Watkins and I will be reading more. I was engaged the whole book. I loved Lake until he started pushing Reason away. I liked that Reason bossed up on Camden when it came to her children. Madison irked my soul about 80% of the book but I knew her father was manipulating her. Overall 4.5/5 because it took too long to wrap up the conflicts. But definitely worth the read.
November 11, 2023
2.5 stars
Hindsight: I knew this book wasn’t for me from page 1 when 4 metaphors was used in the first 4 sentences to say it was dark outside.
Hindsight: I knew this book wasn’t for me from page 1 when 4 metaphors was used in the first 4 sentences to say it was dark outside.
September 3, 2023
Must Read
I see why Reason divorced Camden. He was a narcissistic, gas lighting, manipulative, bitter, jealous ass bastard. Camden was jealous of Reason accomplishments but also used the fact that she was a doctor against her to gain custody of their three children. Reason wasn't a pushover and Camden hated it to the point he tried to turn their three children against her. Madison being their oldest was able to fall under her father manipulative ways. Reason wanted to put hands on Madison badly but she knew her daughter actions was caused by her father. You can't help but to love and respect Lake. He turned his life around when he left the streets alone to become a full time father because he had a piss poor excuse of a baby momma. I respect how he kept it real with his student's and it showed with the love they had for him. I knew the moment he jumped in front of Reason and saved her life. Something beautiful was going to come out of it. Although Reason and Lake was dating and getting to know each other. The both of them were dealing with drama. I knew Ameerah wasn't going to be able to handle Lake cutting her off when he got into a relationship with Reason. The accusation Ciara trifling mother made towards Lake had Ameerah thinking she had the upper hand. I don't blame Lake for not going back to that school when they found out Ciara mother lied. I loved the bond Reason, Abony Tori, and Sophie had. Their friendship was truly genuine. Sophie should not under any circumstances had went through with that marriage with Quan. It was a waste of time. She had her out when his baby momma showed up at their wedding and outed Quan. You can tell Tori husband Rich was exactly like Camden. I was glad she left him and found some happiness with Drake but Rich took his narcissistic ways to another level and changed the lives of many after what he did to Tori. It was truly heartbreaking.
I see why Reason divorced Camden. He was a narcissistic, gas lighting, manipulative, bitter, jealous ass bastard. Camden was jealous of Reason accomplishments but also used the fact that she was a doctor against her to gain custody of their three children. Reason wasn't a pushover and Camden hated it to the point he tried to turn their three children against her. Madison being their oldest was able to fall under her father manipulative ways. Reason wanted to put hands on Madison badly but she knew her daughter actions was caused by her father. You can't help but to love and respect Lake. He turned his life around when he left the streets alone to become a full time father because he had a piss poor excuse of a baby momma. I respect how he kept it real with his student's and it showed with the love they had for him. I knew the moment he jumped in front of Reason and saved her life. Something beautiful was going to come out of it. Although Reason and Lake was dating and getting to know each other. The both of them were dealing with drama. I knew Ameerah wasn't going to be able to handle Lake cutting her off when he got into a relationship with Reason. The accusation Ciara trifling mother made towards Lake had Ameerah thinking she had the upper hand. I don't blame Lake for not going back to that school when they found out Ciara mother lied. I loved the bond Reason, Abony Tori, and Sophie had. Their friendship was truly genuine. Sophie should not under any circumstances had went through with that marriage with Quan. It was a waste of time. She had her out when his baby momma showed up at their wedding and outed Quan. You can tell Tori husband Rich was exactly like Camden. I was glad she left him and found some happiness with Drake but Rich took his narcissistic ways to another level and changed the lives of many after what he did to Tori. It was truly heartbreaking.
September 4, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. At first glance, one might think the story solely revolves around Reason and Lake, but it offers much more depth than that.
Beyond the central love story, the narrative also dives into the lives of Reason’s circle of friends: Abony, Sophie, and Tori. Each of these women, with the exception of Abony, finds themselves entangled in toxic relationships. Their experiences serve as cautionary tales, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and severing ties with toxic partners.
Despite the toxic romantic entanglements, the friendship among these women is uplifting and genuinely sisterly. The love story between Reason and Lake serves as a healing balm in the narrative, offering a contrast to the tumultuous relationships around them.
I particularly appreciated how Reason was able to stand up to her narcissistic ex-husband. It was empowering to see her “boss up” and take control of her life.
Reason’s oldest daughter pushed her luck at times, although she did eventually self-correct. And while the ending was mostly satisfying, I found myself yearning for a different conclusion for Tori.
Overall, this book is a compelling exploration of love, friendship, and the courage it takes to leave toxicity behind. Highly recommended!
Beyond the central love story, the narrative also dives into the lives of Reason’s circle of friends: Abony, Sophie, and Tori. Each of these women, with the exception of Abony, finds themselves entangled in toxic relationships. Their experiences serve as cautionary tales, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and severing ties with toxic partners.
Despite the toxic romantic entanglements, the friendship among these women is uplifting and genuinely sisterly. The love story between Reason and Lake serves as a healing balm in the narrative, offering a contrast to the tumultuous relationships around them.
I particularly appreciated how Reason was able to stand up to her narcissistic ex-husband. It was empowering to see her “boss up” and take control of her life.
Reason’s oldest daughter pushed her luck at times, although she did eventually self-correct. And while the ending was mostly satisfying, I found myself yearning for a different conclusion for Tori.
Overall, this book is a compelling exploration of love, friendship, and the courage it takes to leave toxicity behind. Highly recommended!
September 22, 2023
Loved it!
Lake and Reason went through so much! And it all started from the first time they met. I’m happy Sophie let Quan go cause he was foul for marrying her then treating her like the side chick instead of his wife. Tori’s story was sad, I had a feeling that it was Rich that shot Reason and it was, just when she found happiness he murdered her and her unborn child. I felt so sorry for Drake and I wish they would have given some kind of update on him. Maybe even give him his own book? Abony did right by not hooking up with Diddy dog ass, he is a trip. I’m so happy that Madison started to see through her dads bs and good for her getting her siblings away from him. I loved the ending especially when they went too the LASA graduation and Lake was able to witness Mike graduation and them making up was tear jerking! I’m so in love with Lake and Reason connection and love. Through it all they survived 🥰
Lake and Reason went through so much! And it all started from the first time they met. I’m happy Sophie let Quan go cause he was foul for marrying her then treating her like the side chick instead of his wife. Tori’s story was sad, I had a feeling that it was Rich that shot Reason and it was, just when she found happiness he murdered her and her unborn child. I felt so sorry for Drake and I wish they would have given some kind of update on him. Maybe even give him his own book? Abony did right by not hooking up with Diddy dog ass, he is a trip. I’m so happy that Madison started to see through her dads bs and good for her getting her siblings away from him. I loved the ending especially when they went too the LASA graduation and Lake was able to witness Mike graduation and them making up was tear jerking! I’m so in love with Lake and Reason connection and love. Through it all they survived 🥰
January 15, 2025
I just finished listening to The Girl from Englewood by Jessica N. Watkins on Audible—and yes, I even used one of my credits for it, lol!
Overall, it was a good read. I will say the storyline felt a bit familiar, like something I might have read before, but it still held my interest. The relationships in the book were raw and relatable, serving as a reminder that staying in an unhappy relationship isn’t worth the toll it takes on you. It also highlights how people can react when they’re unhappy about you moving on—sometimes in ways you wouldn’t expect.
One of the biggest takeaways? When you do move on, find someone who breathes life into the darkest parts of your heart. Happiness is possible, even after the storm.
I recommend checking out The Girl from Englewood. If you’re into books like this and want to connect with others who enjoy similar reads, join us in The Shades of Pink Book Club on Facebook!
Overall, it was a good read. I will say the storyline felt a bit familiar, like something I might have read before, but it still held my interest. The relationships in the book were raw and relatable, serving as a reminder that staying in an unhappy relationship isn’t worth the toll it takes on you. It also highlights how people can react when they’re unhappy about you moving on—sometimes in ways you wouldn’t expect.
One of the biggest takeaways? When you do move on, find someone who breathes life into the darkest parts of your heart. Happiness is possible, even after the storm.
I recommend checking out The Girl from Englewood. If you’re into books like this and want to connect with others who enjoy similar reads, join us in The Shades of Pink Book Club on Facebook!
October 3, 2023
An emotional roller coaster that’s worth the ride❣️
Sometimes no matter how much you focus on doing the right things in life… sometimes things go wrong. Whether minor or major how strong does your bond have to be for love to survive … This emotional roller coaster of a novel tugs at your heartstrings one moment & pisses you off the next! Well at least the characters do… They make you question faithfulness vs cheating, good partners vs bad partners & how do you truly decide who is right for you so you can let go & embrace what’s best for you
Through each character’s journey we discover the importance of choosing what’s right for you & doing your best to make sure you know someone well, before letting them into you & your loved ones’ lives
Finally the protective nature of this Lake Dixon character has made him Book bae of the year for me… so far!
Sometimes no matter how much you focus on doing the right things in life… sometimes things go wrong. Whether minor or major how strong does your bond have to be for love to survive … This emotional roller coaster of a novel tugs at your heartstrings one moment & pisses you off the next! Well at least the characters do… They make you question faithfulness vs cheating, good partners vs bad partners & how do you truly decide who is right for you so you can let go & embrace what’s best for you
Through each character’s journey we discover the importance of choosing what’s right for you & doing your best to make sure you know someone well, before letting them into you & your loved ones’ lives
Finally the protective nature of this Lake Dixon character has made him Book bae of the year for me… so far!
February 13, 2025
Reason and Lake. Wow! This book was everything. I was hooked from the first page. Reason is a medical doctor working in the ER. Lake is Dean of Students at a HS. They are both single parents. Reason has 3 kids and Lake has 2. Reason and Lake meet one night after one of Reason's patients dies and the patients husband tries to shoot Reason. However, instead of shooting Reason, Lake pushes Reason out the way and takes the bullet. And So begins their relationship.
This book had everything. Jealously. Betrayal. Murder. Drugs. Abuse. Love. Everything. And the drama kept coming. Lake even has a best friend named Diddy! That's all I'm going to say about that. Such a surprisingly good book. Def worth a read.
This book had everything. Jealously. Betrayal. Murder. Drugs. Abuse. Love. Everything. And the drama kept coming. Lake even has a best friend named Diddy! That's all I'm going to say about that. Such a surprisingly good book. Def worth a read.
September 2, 2023
So So Good!
This was such a sweet romance,with just enough drama and tragedy to bring it full circle. The writer gives us a full out romance with two very likable characters. I loved the fact that Lake and Reason are two people you can relate to and know and also like. The story moves at a pace were their is no down time. I love that we get to see a strong couple come out on the winning end.I however have one ding and that's we don't get to see enough of Drake and feel his loss and satisfaction in having Rich finally caught.Overall please take this ride because you are so not going g to be disappointed.
This was such a sweet romance,with just enough drama and tragedy to bring it full circle. The writer gives us a full out romance with two very likable characters. I loved the fact that Lake and Reason are two people you can relate to and know and also like. The story moves at a pace were their is no down time. I love that we get to see a strong couple come out on the winning end.I however have one ding and that's we don't get to see enough of Drake and feel his loss and satisfaction in having Rich finally caught.Overall please take this ride because you are so not going g to be disappointed.
October 9, 2023
Page Turner
Honey this stand alone was amazing! Jessica Watkins you never disappoint. There were so many unexpected events that kept me turning the pages with anticipation. I loved Lake and I loved the relationship he developed with Reason. The relationship Reason had with her kids due to Camden was unexpected and kept me invested to see how it turned out with Ms Madison. I love that this is a standalone but would love to have a Christmas short story to know what happened with Rick, if Reason went back to school to go into private practice and also what eventually became of Camden.
Honey this stand alone was amazing! Jessica Watkins you never disappoint. There were so many unexpected events that kept me turning the pages with anticipation. I loved Lake and I loved the relationship he developed with Reason. The relationship Reason had with her kids due to Camden was unexpected and kept me invested to see how it turned out with Ms Madison. I love that this is a standalone but would love to have a Christmas short story to know what happened with Rick, if Reason went back to school to go into private practice and also what eventually became of Camden.
August 20, 2023
Awesome Read
This was such a great book!!!…I love the encouragement that these friends provided for each other!!!…Cameron was a hot mess the whole book and simply miserable!!!…My heart broke when Tori was killed because she finally decided she needed to love herself more accept nothing less than she deserved!!!…I loved Reason and Lake’s relationship!!!…To go from saving her being shot to saving them both from a broken heart!!!…Crazy how Sierra’s mother tried to ruin Lake’s reputation!!!…
This was such a great book!!!…I love the encouragement that these friends provided for each other!!!…Cameron was a hot mess the whole book and simply miserable!!!…My heart broke when Tori was killed because she finally decided she needed to love herself more accept nothing less than she deserved!!!…I loved Reason and Lake’s relationship!!!…To go from saving her being shot to saving them both from a broken heart!!!…Crazy how Sierra’s mother tried to ruin Lake’s reputation!!!…
August 23, 2023
Wow...
Jessica Watkins does it again!! This is definitely a must read standalone. There were some errors with some of the wording and spelling but it in no way took away from the story. Lake is definitely the man and Reason was the perfect woman for him. Everything in this story seemed so real and are parts of some peoples' everyday life...it's just up to them what they choose to do with it. I hate that the girls' circle was broken and just when things were starting to look up. I dont want to spoil it for you but i definitely think you should add this to your rotation.
Jessica Watkins does it again!! This is definitely a must read standalone. There were some errors with some of the wording and spelling but it in no way took away from the story. Lake is definitely the man and Reason was the perfect woman for him. Everything in this story seemed so real and are parts of some peoples' everyday life...it's just up to them what they choose to do with it. I hate that the girls' circle was broken and just when things were starting to look up. I dont want to spoil it for you but i definitely think you should add this to your rotation.
August 27, 2023
Settling never works out
Love,love Reason and her crew,hated all the men except Lake and Drake. Settling when abuse rears it’s head never leads to anything good. Would have love to see Quan come crawling back,only for Sophie to boss up on him. Did not envision that end for Tori’s.Happy that the kids were all okay with their parents. Sooooo glad that this was a standalone,even though it could be longer.
5 ⭐️⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️ for sure!
Love,love Reason and her crew,hated all the men except Lake and Drake. Settling when abuse rears it’s head never leads to anything good. Would have love to see Quan come crawling back,only for Sophie to boss up on him. Did not envision that end for Tori’s.Happy that the kids were all okay with their parents. Sooooo glad that this was a standalone,even though it could be longer.
5 ⭐️⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️ for sure!
September 14, 2023
Absolutely loved it!
This book was so good, from the beginning to the end. Reason really had her hands full with a full time job as a doctor, but she also knew how to embrace her Englewood hood girl life as well. The way that her love for Lake blossomed after he essentially save her life was amazing. The friendship between Reason, Sophie, Abony and Tori was really special. The book was well written, flowed well and definitely kept my attention.
This book was so good, from the beginning to the end. Reason really had her hands full with a full time job as a doctor, but she also knew how to embrace her Englewood hood girl life as well. The way that her love for Lake blossomed after he essentially save her life was amazing. The friendship between Reason, Sophie, Abony and Tori was really special. The book was well written, flowed well and definitely kept my attention.
October 1, 2023
New book bae found?
This book right here! Listen Lake was nothing to play about I love everything about his character and how he came for Reason because she really needed him and vice versa I’m also happy for Reason she was the real prize it was a nice read about Black couples success in life and love I kind of wish it was a part 2 to get more story on her friends but I’m good either way Thanks again Ms. Jessica girl for a great story
This book right here! Listen Lake was nothing to play about I love everything about his character and how he came for Reason because she really needed him and vice versa I’m also happy for Reason she was the real prize it was a nice read about Black couples success in life and love I kind of wish it was a part 2 to get more story on her friends but I’m good either way Thanks again Ms. Jessica girl for a great story
November 16, 2023
Gave me all the feels!
I chose this rating because this is the first book that I have read and really cried due to actually feeling like I had lost my best friend when Tori got killed. The way you wrote about the pain of loss was so accurate.
I like the fact that you touched on every emotion in this book. I absolutely love Lake and Reason's connection. Once again, Great writing!
I chose this rating because this is the first book that I have read and really cried due to actually feeling like I had lost my best friend when Tori got killed. The way you wrote about the pain of loss was so accurate.
I like the fact that you touched on every emotion in this book. I absolutely love Lake and Reason's connection. Once again, Great writing!
December 27, 2023
A rollercoaster you didn’t know you got on.
The very beginning alarms you. But you forgot when you get so wrapped up in the story going forward. A girl from the hood became a Doctor. Got married, had children, happily ever after right? Wrong!
You have family that’s jealous or thinks you’re a sell out. Your husband and kids are a whole nother story and issue. Your teen daughter is one of your biggest headaches. Your husband is another headache, controlling, narcissistic and just plain aggravating . But your friends hold you down through it all. Even through all their drama, y’all got each other.
The very beginning alarms you. But you forgot when you get so wrapped up in the story going forward. A girl from the hood became a Doctor. Got married, had children, happily ever after right? Wrong!
You have family that’s jealous or thinks you’re a sell out. Your husband and kids are a whole nother story and issue. Your teen daughter is one of your biggest headaches. Your husband is another headache, controlling, narcissistic and just plain aggravating . But your friends hold you down through it all. Even through all their drama, y’all got each other.
August 25, 2023
My favorite book right now!
This was a really really good book the emotions it had me going through I thought I was really there 😂😂😂 I hate how some of the things that happen but that’s how it been in real life 😔 and also I really want Sophia to have her own story and see how the gang holding up lol nothing too crazy
This was a really really good book the emotions it had me going through I thought I was really there 😂😂😂 I hate how some of the things that happen but that’s how it been in real life 😔 and also I really want Sophia to have her own story and see how the gang holding up lol nothing too crazy
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