As fate would have it, everything must fall apart in order for it to come together. A lesson Kadeem Damson and Raya Wright are in the process of learning.Single father Kadeem is faced with the task of continuing the growth of his empire and bracing fatherhood without assistance for the entire summer. With the stress of raising twin girls, Kadeem is faced with accepting help outside of his inner circle.Raya is standing at the end of one chapter and the not-so-hopeful beginning of another. As depression, anger, and chaos wreak havoc on her already troubled world, her friends and family come to snatch her out of it, placing her in a familiar, long awaited space. Can the wounds to their hearts be mended or will time and their fears of being broken again consume them and unroot everything that was planted?
Kadeem is a workaholic who relies on his mother to assist take care of his daughters, Wynter and Wryn. His mom has decided to take a break and has left him in charge of finding a nanny for the home. Raya, who formerly taught first grade, is terminated from her position due to her unfaithful husband's infidelity. A failing marriage and lack of employment have left her with little choice but to take the nanny position. Raya and Kadeem have known each other ever since they were little. It's tense between them since she feels that Kadeem abandoned her during a difficult period in her life. But behind all that tension is repressed emotion. This arrangement is like therapy for Kadeem and Raya, who are both still hurting from and carrying around baggage from their previous relationships. They completed each other in ways neither had before, and I, for one, was all for the inevitable romance and family turmoil. I would like to say fuck the momma and the sister they are very weird. They really just didn’t care for Kadeem’s sacrifice. Also fuck Quandra weird ass and Jordan bitch ass. Overall, the twins really balanced things out and brought light to the book.
Give Good Love was a damn good book to me. Kadeem is a workaholic, single father of twin girls, Wynter and Wryn. Raya is a first grade teacher, in a failing marriage. Raya lost her job and begrudgingly accepted a job as the nanny for Kadeem. The story has a good balance of romance, drama, and unexpected turns. There was close proximity, sexual tension, and years of pent-up feelings from both characters, but it is not a slow burn! The love did not feel rushed and I think it was because the characters had history that we witnessed on page.
The author did a great job of making me feel the character’s emotions, as they happened. My heart went out to both because of their past relationships and issues with their families. I think both characters were stubborn, but I did not expect Kadeem to fall as quick as he did. He spoke life into Raya and I appreciated every time he showed her that he would do anything to make her happy. In hindsight, their love was destined; but both had to go through hardships to appreciate true love. When it said, “every woman in the room knew the pain of holding a subpar man down” I almost shouted! Raya went through hell and back with her ex, Jordan. Kadeem came in like a wrecking ball to save the day! We stan a protector! It took Raya a while to come to terms that she deserved the best and Kadeem was what she needed.
Ps, the twins were the highlight for me! They brought comedic relief and were so aware of their father’s needs. When they asked Raya to be their mother, I had tears in my eyes! All the feels! Amazing job on this one!
Aubree Pynn really does a great job with writing emotionally invoking reads because Raya and Kadeem's journey back to each other gave me all the feels. The things Raya was putting up with from her husband and the bull that Kadeem was accepting from his family made me want to go in the book and smack them both. I was so glad when they ran into each other, and that was the catalyst to lighting a fire under Kadeem to get his girl back. I don't typically like a second-chance romance, but their love was something special, and the family unit they created with the girls was so sweet. I really couldn’t stand Kadeem's family, his momma included, but I'm glad she got herself together eventually.
AP! It's always good to come back to Ganton Hills. But with this one you just drug me and my feelings all the way to Lavendale and back honey! Whew! 🥹 Miss Raya! Small but mighty is her name! The things she endured with that trash ass husband of hers, but she still stood tall. He did all that he could to break her, but she persevered. The small village that surrounded her, helped get her back on her feet and pushed her to find happiness again.
Kadeem! I wondered why he worked so hard and was always so uptight. As we began to peel back his layers, it made you hurt for him and all that he had gone through. But who was there for him? He had to be the rock, the provider, protector, bank, enforcer, and everything else for those around him, while he was slowly dying inside! 💔 That mess his mother brought to his doorstep, and his trifling ass sister, almost took him to the brink of insanity! Then they meet again... his sunshine.
Raya was the missing piece, to make Kadeem happy again, smile again, breathe again, and be whole. It was always her. The way she came into his life, made his house and home, and mothered his children! He was hooked! Them twins ya'll! They done been here before! 😂 Talking about people being unalive, sassy mouths, and picking locks, they was doing too much to be six years old! But they were also adorable, loving, and sweet. They adored their Yaya (Raya) and soaked up all they could from her, as they were missing their own mother.
This visit to the hills was an emotional one, that was teaching life lessons throughout. You did it again AP! Great story!
Every time I visit Ganton Hills, it's a new adventure. Raya had my heart on page 23 exactly, when her husband solidified his role as an AS man with his vicious act of depravity against his wife. Her subsequent actions made me Love this lady with my whole heart. Not a lot of characters in other books would have survived the vicious attack to her well-being. Raya was a tiny lady with a larger than life soul her man could not handle. Her light dimmed his light. Then along came Boss's mentee to reclaim his prize, her name is Raya. Boss was the man in the streets and Raya's father. So you see where I'm going with this synopses? Yes, Boss played a pivotal part in this story, as much as Kadeem, the enigmatic man who protected everyone, except Kadeem. I won't get into his mother's issues or his sister's reckless behavior. This story was about Kadeem and his twin girls finding Raya and restoring their hearts to love again, wholly. The message in this GH story was clear to me with #s416 as the answer. I recommend this story. 5*
Absolutely loved this captivating and emotional roller coaster! Kadeem and Raya's story grabbed my heart and wouldn't let go. Fortunately, Kadeem's cutie pie twin girls, had me laughing until I cried!
Lots of shocking, but amazing family reunions and surprises. In addition, Karma kicked the stuffing out of a few people who really, really deserved it!
Aubree you did it again for me. You dropped this book with gems and left so quick. Kadeem and Raya are a match made! They been through some trials myyy god but eventually found themselves back to each other without caution to the wind and I loved it Kadeem didn’t play no games he knew if he ever got her again it’s a wrap he’s keeping her locked and keyed. Their love was so juicy and fulfilling. The supporting characters especially “the family” and the twins made it even more eye catching that sucks you in deeper. Now for the people in this book that did their grimey sh***t yall got what was coming and im having the last laugh for raya and kadeem triple time😪. This book was a second chance/ finding yourself again and finding love again type book and I thoroughly enjoyed it bit by bit❤️
Ps. My tear ducts were definitely being filled up by the ending especially the wedding scene !!!
Give Good Love by Aubree Pynn explores interwoven stories of Kadeem Damson and Raya Wright are deeply engaging, exploring the poignant themes of love, healing, and the complexities of personal growth. The narrative beautifully portrays the intricate balance between life's trials and the promise of redemption. This book starting off trifling ok omg lol Aubree lives for the drama. If I were Raya I would’ve on Janice like white on rice too cause ain’t no way your gonna say she told you on confidence and it wasn’t your place knowing somebody is sleeping with my husband. Dragged ok. Jordan is so cruel like I wanted to be on the page with Rays. Auntie Cecilia has a little Madea in her I like. The story delves into the challenging journey of single fatherhood, as Kadeem Damson navigates the intricate realms of expanding his empire while grappling with the responsibility of raising twin girls. The vulnerability of accepting help beyond his inner circle is a central theme, emphasizing the importance of support and collaboration in times of adversity. These themes added layers to the story and made it more intriguing and appealing. Raya Wright's narrative adds an emotionally charged layer to the tale, as she confronts the turbulent transition from one life phase to another. Her battle with depression, anger, and chaos is vividly depicted, while the support she receives from loved ones offers a ray of hope in her journey toward healing. The novel beautifully weaves the delicate yet resilient threads of love, resilience, and the fear of emotional vulnerability. As the characters navigate their past wounds and confront their fears of being hurt again, the story poses an enthralling question: Can the scars on their hearts be healed, or will the weight of their apprehensions threaten to unravel the seeds of hope planted within them? Aubree Pynn's skillful storytelling unveils a narrative of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of love. The book explores the complexity of human emotions and the potential for healing, making "Give Good Love" a compelling read that resonates long after the final page.
Lord you said ask and you shall receive so I’m asking for a man like Kadeem who would “scorch this earth and rebuild everything…” for me. Kadeem was a man who loved hard, was hardworking, put family first and during all of that he lost himself. He’d endured loss, responsibility, life without a tear or complaint. There wasn’t time or space for that. He did what had to be done. Raya was a daddy’s girl through and through. He loved her, sheltered her and taught her to always think of and take care of herself and don’t let nobody run all over you. Some where down the line she lost sight of those lessons and let the enemy in. She endured what she shouldn’t have and for too long. She didn’t have her dad to save her and never knew her mom. They were both shells of their former selves, not really knowing they were each others keys to happiness and true joy. They knew each other from around the way and kept a spark for each other in their hearts but it was never the right time. But it’s always in Gods time! This book had me chuckling the whole time because she was running with his cookie but he kept applying that pressure! I shed a few tears too. Ms Pynn always has me in my feelings! It was great to see familiar characters in this story. Book had me asking God to bless me indeed. As always, the mastery in which she crafts these stories is amazing! Awesome read!
The love in this book was the expression “in you i have peace.”
There are several layers to unpack but i will say that this just felt good. Just felt good to see two people love and give and just be. There was so much going on in their separate lives but in their home, in each other, they found a calm and a love to be proud of. So many things could have gone wrong. Ego and pride initially threatened to ruin them but they kept trying and i love that for them. This isn’t a story of ride or die and you hurt me and i take you back. This is a book about healing. There are different types of trauma a person can go through just because life is life. Finding someone to help you heal your trauma and become your best self is a blessing. Kadeem and Raya…they fit and I’m glad this one was full of peace. We love when the black love feels good and AP knows how to do that well. Enjoy this one y’all.
This amazing story of Kadeem & Raya was so beautiful! Imagine having a crush at 18 years old, something happens and you walk away from them. After years of not seeing each other, a lot of unfortunate circumstances happen in each of their lives and fate brings them back together. Old feelings, rush back, and the chemistry is undeniable! This is a beautiful story of restoration and healing for both of them. If you looking for a love story where the MMC knew from day one what he wanted and never wavered this is it! Kadeem poured so much love into Ray that it was coming off of the pages! You are going to giggle because Wynter & Wryn, his twin daughters are hilarious and very sassy! You will cry as you read the way that Kadeem’s love healed Raya he restored her confidence in herself. And baby Raya did not play the radio about that man and his kids! Please read this book! It was truly amazing! Aubreé you did it again!
Aubree did a great job getting me to feel all the emotions in this book. Kadeem the MMC has quickly become one of my favorites, a single father of twin girls Wynter and Wryn and those that know me knows that a voice of child done well and dope daddy is some of my favorite troupes , and this one was done well. Raya the FMC daughter to one of the OG’s of Ganton Hills is a first grade teacher who lost her job and dealing with a failed marriage. FYI her husband is pure 🗑️! Raya has been though a lot with this trash bucket! Due to Raya losing her job she takes an a new one Kadeem nanny. The author does a great job showing us past occurrences between the two characters that leads to all the sexual tension built up in this story. The story does not feel rushed the flow is perfect. Kadeem is that dude he spoke life into our girl showed and made her feel worthy. The relationship between with the twins and Raya was so organic the love was real! Added bonus for me was seeing so many Ganton Hill favorites through the book! And of course it wouldn’t be a Aubree book without a little drama and some plot twist. Another ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!
I really enjoyed this book and it gave me everything I needed. Raya and Kadeem were a perfect match. I loved how Kadeem was sure about himself and his feelings for Raya and how he showed her his love as well as gave her reassurance. He recognized her love languages and made sure to give her what she needed even when she didn’t know she needed it or was too scared to hope or ask for it. Their banter was cute and the twins were hilarious. This story was all about good and soft love and feeling comfortable enough with your person to let your guard down and be vulnerable.
One of my favorite things about this authors’ work is the triggger warnings, names pronunciations and author note that get you prepared for what to expect in the story. They always tend to give me a little laugh and have me even more interested in reading the story.
Kadeem and Raya have both been broken by love. He is a single father of rain daughters and she is their teacher. A series of events drastically changes the dynamics and soon …love stepped in. I loved the support that both main characters received from various family members and friends. My favorite characters are the twins. Those girls were HILARIOUS! My least favorite character was Jordan, for obvious reasons.
Overall, I loved the storyline and in typical @aubreepynn fashion, it was a dose of love with a whole lot of lust! I bet you parents with young children will remember to double lick their bedroom door after this one! Lol
Raya is in a marriage from hell, and she wants out, and when she attacks, it lands her in trouble. Kadeems mother is taking an indefinite vacation, so Kadeem needs help with his girls. Both need help, Raya was hired to work with the girls, but she wasn't happy because of their past. Kadeem wants a chance, but Raya is not interested. Raya was so broken from her marriage, but Kadeem wanted to heal that. The way Kadeem loved and protected Raya was beautiful to watch, and the way Raya loved and protected his girls was the icing on the cake. I loved them together and couldn't get enough of this soon to be family. There were some unexpected surprises in this book, and I loved them. I really didn't want this story to end!!!
Wryn and Wynter were the stars of this show for me! I almost always love kids in books but I really couldn’t get enough of these two! They just made everything feel so wholesome and sweet.
Love me some Kadeem! It was clear the twins adored their daddy and it made me love him right away! He was standing on big business about all of his girls. He took care of everything for Raya! Stepped away from dinner to take the trash out and barely broke a sweat. Told his people they could fall in line or fall off and he meant that. The nicknames were perfect, the vacation, just everything. I really loved this one!
It’s still big daddy Eli for life but big daddy Kadeem is a close 2nd for Ganton Hills romance! I have my eye on Karlee and Helen too cuz AP loves to run people back!
I'm packing my bags and moving to Ganton Hills! Aubree has magic in her pen!
I wouldn't call this a "2nd Chance" story, but more of a "FINALLY"
Yara, a elementary school teacher in a messy, disrespectful marriage is hired by an old acquaintance ,Kadeem, to nanny his 6 yr old twins. Kadeem has been a shell of himself since the girls mother passed away. Sparks and drama fly with these two and I didn't want it to end! The twins were a mess and kept me laughing, and Kadeem was out here serving Good Love, BDE, and grown man vibes. I can't wait to go back to Ganton Hills! (Maybe for Thanksgiving, hint, hint)
Who doesn't love taking a trip to Ganton Hills? I always love the cameos of characters from previous books. One thing about the GH family, they are fiercely protective.
When that old flame still burns, it's hard to resist the attraction. Second chance novels are always my favorite. Kadeem and Raya had no idea they'd be reconnected. What started as a nanny gig, blossomed into so much more than time allowed during their younger days. Kadeem's mom and sister were truly a piece of work. However, forgiveness can really mend even the most broken hearts. I was so happy Raya was able to finally have several dreams come true.
Ms. Pynn….you didn’t have to stir my soul like this. There’s so much to unpack and so little time. Raya was dealing with a lot of real trauma in silence. So much loss, abuse, and heartache that she felt like she was forever failing at life. Kadeem coming into her life was catalyst to both of their healing. Even with him dealing with his own grief, he intentionally provided Raya with love, protection, and a family. In turn, Raya poured into him and his girls. Their love was beautiful and the extent each of them went to protect each others hearts was amazing.
I guess I’ll have to reread the other books until you drop another one on us!
Raya thought she had lost everything and would never know what it was to be loved properly. An unfaithful husband, backstabbing friend, and a missing father lead her to believe she was broken.
Kadeem a single father carrying the weight of the world and his family was looking to be at peace with love again, but he couldn’t face the tragedy of another broken heart.
When these two got together and learned how to give and receive good love so much was healed in them and through them. Their love was everything that they needed and what others needed through them.
One thing about a Ganton Hills novel, is that you will always get some love. Give Good Love was well written, flowed well and showed us that love can overcome all things. Raya and Kadeem were the perfect match. She endured so much with the frogs in her life that she wasn’t ready to accept Kadeem’s love initially. But in the end, she accepted his love, gave him and his kids love and became his forever. When love makes you choose a person over your family, that’s definitely good love.
I loved this book Kadeem is Bae and he gave off big d*ck energy I thought he was out of there. Raya I loved her she didn’t deserve what Jordan put here through. I loved how she was with Wryn and Wynter and they loved her. Kadeem mother and sister got on my nerves with their entitled a$$e$. I also loved how she added other characters from some of her other books. Overall I’m glad they both got the happy ending they deserved.
I loved Kadeem and Raya, they didn’t play about each other. Helen was working my nerves for a bit, mother or not she needed to tighten up. Kadeem’s twins were something else and kept me happily entertained. Jordan was a punk, I wanted to beat him up myself. The friends you make family are always the best. Boss was a true OG. The second chance love always gets me on my feelings. Great read.
She gave good love and got it back triple fold❤. She was reluctant in the beginning, but once she gave in it was evident that they were meant to be. Jordan was 🗑🐍. He got what he deserved. Kareem was bae and serving sooooo much BDE. I loved that he got a second chance with Raya. I loved Raya's relationship with girls. She had her mans back and straightened his sis out. Great read, definitely⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Kadeem and Raya’s story is one that embodies right person, wrong time but they didn’t know it. After losing his father, Kadeem took on the role of the Provider. Raya on the other hand was living life under the guise of “what would my father think?” One faithful day after a school fight, the Universe puts in overtime for these two to cross paths again.
I have never read something as amazing as this. If you read the author’s note as you prepare to read this book you will not be in shock as to all that happens to the characters. They all fit into the book puzzle. I loved the story and will probably read this again. This one is a 5+ in stars.
Give Good Love maybe one of the sweetest Gangsta Ganton Hills stories of all. I felt all the feels. KADEEM is a no-nonsense dude. If he says it, it's gold, baby. RAYA ain't no punk by no means. She is Boss' baby girl, and he taught her "to love hard but fight harder." Don't expect a tear or two to slide down my face. AP, you are a beast.
The way this book ruminated all throughout my heart was wild! Kadeem and Raya deserved the world. After all the booth I’d then had to endure through life, a HEA was the BARE MINIMUM of what they deserved. This is the story of life “life-ing” for real. Also the testament of “don’t play with Gods favorites/chosen”. Wryn and Wynter stole the show and my heart!
I think this book will definitely be in the top of all the ganton hills books. I loved every minute of this book from the crush to the restoration. Love with the right one is definitely something that can bring the peace you need. No matter how much money you have that definitely doesn’t bring peace only the right one can do that.
4.5 ⭐️ I love the Ganton Hills universe and loved this addition to the story. Kadeem and Raya were so passionate about each other and I felt that. I’m just a bit confused about the situation with her dad and mom. it’s so many pieces to keep up with in the overall Ganton hills series plot, i forgot a lot of the significance from the additional characters from other books. I hope it wraps up soon.