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Life isn’t always kind. It throws curve balls and sometimes, a few of those become strikes. Tyeis Warner knows what it's like to be dealt lemons and try to make lemonade out of them. She chooses to make the best out of life because her daughter depends on her to. After her daughter’s father walks out on her, she knows that she has to make it… no ifs, ands, or buts about it. However, his actions leave a bad taste in her mouth regarding men, but an even worse taste regarding herself. She goes through life believing she doesn’t really deserve love, and her mental health suffers more because of it.

To think everything is good, but suddenly have it all come crashing down is a hard thing to get over. When Decaurey Franklin’s girlfriend dies, it takes a toll on him… a big toll. He’s depressed for years but finally seeks help, proving he has the desire to come out of it. He knows that he isn’t meant to be alone and that he would love a woman more than life itself if he finds the right one. When he meets Tyeis, he has his doubts, but he knows that he can’t permanently walk away. There is something about her that intrigues him, and he is determined to find out what that something is.

Decaurey and Tyeis have a rocky start. One is ready for a committed relationship and the other has convinced themselves that they aren’t, which causes a stint of back and forth. Tyeis is keeping a secret that could weigh in on the course of their journey. She’s afraid that if he knows the truth about her, he will leave her. Decaurey wants to walk away because he knows she’s hiding something. Can Tyeis finally divulge what she’s been hiding for so long to give them a fighting chance or will her fear of rejection cause her to wait until it’s too late?

220 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 29, 2023

196 people are currently reading
73 people want to read

About the author

Monica Walters

133 books940 followers
Starting with poetry, writing has always been a constant in Monica's life. The interest began in her teenage years, being in love for the first time. Her love for writing has only progressed. Song lyrics and poetry led to short stories, then one day in her down time, a short story became a 56k word novel. It has been non-stop since then. Being a wife and mother, has only added to the joys of Monica's life. Attaining a BS in Sociology, helping her better understand people and their behaviors, has only helped her become a better writer, understanding characters and their complex personalities. Romance of all types has been her passion, and she plans to continue honing her skills in that genre.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
Profile Image for Q. Moore.
961 reviews38 followers
December 11, 2023
Mental Illness is Real!

And just like that, the legend in the making has done it again. And with the Hendersons, one of the most popular country hood fiction families to date. The Hendersons are a tight-knit family that's going to ride or die for each other. Decaurey fit right in especially since W.J. didn't have any biological sons. Decaurey is the son he always wanted. I love the way Decaurey handled Tyeis because mental illness is a real issue. He knew something was off he just couldn't quite put his finger on it. He still wanted to be with her but he needed truth and honesty. He stayed with her through the mania episodes. Tyeis leaving him in another state would have been the end of their relationship for most men. Tyeis's daughter Angel is a special teenager as well. She had Down syndrome but Down syndrome did not have her. Her condition just made her free and not withhold any secrets. My favorite part of the book is when Decaurey tells her he will be her "Daddy" regardless not after he proposes to her mom. Decaurey is going to be a great father to all the kids. He is already a provider and protector. His wired jaw is the evidence of his protective instinct.

And let me not conclude this review without mentioning Storm. If at any point anyone thought Storm was cool, calm, and collected they were highly mistaken. He is a category five on a normal day so imagine him as a politician. It's time to strap in for Uncle Mayor because it's going to be a bumpy election. Additionally, the death of the grandmother was heartbreaking 💔. Anytime Kenny's baby boy is mentioned my eyes just automatically tear up. 🥺 His death is still a hard pill to swallow.

If you by any chance haven't read a masterpiece specifically a country hood story by Mrs. Walters what are you waiting on? She always understands the assignment and doesn't miss her target. So grab a copy of this novel or start at the beginning of the Hendersons saga. You will be highly entertained and engaged.
Profile Image for Monae Nicole.
Author 76 books188 followers
November 22, 2023
Emotional

I understood Tyeis's apprehension with telling Decaurey about her disorder because a lot of people don't understand. After a while though I wanted to be like, girl, tell that man. I loved the relationship Decaurey developed with Angel.
As usual, it's always good to catch up with the Hendersons.
Profile Image for Jite.
1,312 reviews74 followers
October 22, 2023
okay.

It was good to reconnect with the Henderson family again… Decaurey has been through a lot in this series with the documenting of his relationship with his mother’s best friend and her tragic loss. The thing is I thought that would feature more in this book, where it was kind of a footnote. Then there was Tyeis’ battle with mental illness (bipolar disorder), again expected it to contribute to the plot more- but once the initial conflict was sorted, it rarely came up again- which had positives and negatives… in one way, by not focusing g on Tyeis’ BPD, she was allowed to just be a person without having her condition other her… on the other side, it was a bit of a missed opportunity to not mainstream that perspective throughout the book. I feel like we got some insights and then once the conflict around keeping the diagnosis secret was solved, it was almost like her BPD was cited because it wasn’t a secret..:

I overall liked this romance… I think it lost its way a bit by introducing too many external factors… e.g. starting the Tyrese subplot but dropping it along the way randomly (I’m fairly certain this will be back in future books featuring Jakari etc), the tragedy with the Henderson matriarch, Angel’s father b-a Kelvin…. I just think it started strong and kind of petered out. That said, would I continue with this series? Yes! Do I want to read Jakari and Christian’s stories? Yes. Do I think Angel will be getting a book too? 100% yes!
Profile Image for Tracy - loves to read .
1,013 reviews
November 13, 2023
make it work

“Love is always possible when two people are willing to put in the work to make it worth it.”

Decaurey was ready to be in a relationship, business was successful, his home was being built, he was single and passed his stages of grief. He was attracted to Tyeis but he didn’t know if she was on his type of time.
Tyeis was a single mother with a daughter in college who had Down syndrome. She was very protective, nurturing and loving to her daughter. She also battled depression but had an even more serious condition that she didn’t share and took meds for. She wanted Decaurey since she first saw him. She was a very sexual person so it was on from go with him.
They both sexed first and struggled to get the relationship part off the ground. She was extremely moody and he couldn’t keep up with her swings. She hid her bipolar disorder from him so he didn’t know what to think, so say, or feel around her. He was a man that wasn’t into playing games and she was fearful that her revelation would cause him to leave her.
Let’s just say that this book had a lot of emotional ups and downs for the couple. In addition, there was a lot going on in the Henderson family as usual. Never a dull moment that’s for sure. I always enjoy each installment in the Henderson family saga and this book was a wonderful addition.
Amazing read!
438 reviews5 followers
October 13, 2023
Emotional Rollercoaster

I’ve been trying to leave this review for a while, so
I’m happy Amazon is finally cooperating. Tyeis stressed me out real bad. I understood her hesitancy to be completely transparent with Decaurey but it became a lot. It was almost selfish honestly. Decaurey told her from the start that he wanted something real, but she let her fear ruin that. I loved how often we got to see Angel and get a glimpse of how Tyeis handled her disability. Her growing friendship with Decaurey was cute too, so again I wasn’t understanding Tyeis’s hesitancy. It was almost as if she didn’t realize the damage she’d done until he had to cut communication with her. I was proud of Decaurey for choosing himself in that moment, but I’m happy that they finally got it together. Tyrese was crazy, I’m glad that situation got handled.

I loved the mini side story of Brix, Jessica, and Nate too because closure was needed. Also, the loss of Mama Henderson was devastating and I could tell that it hit the family hard.
Profile Image for V. Rena.
1,659 reviews16 followers
October 13, 2023
Her attitude and behavior was "Gone in 60 Seconds"

Tyeis' attitude and behavior was just like the movie, "Gone in 60 Seconds!" It was good then bam, just gone. Decaurey has to been deep in to keep dealing with her aggyness. But once he finds out the truth and not just bits and pieces, he is able to handle all that comes with her. Tyeis put more stress on herself by hiding her truth. Once she finally let it out, it frees her in so many ways and she didn't have many episodes afterwards. My heart goes out to the family and I cried tears because if you know you know. After reading book one through now, you learn these characters and grow close to them. Angel is so sweet but I hated that her sperm donor did that. Hopefully, she can continue getting to know her brother. It good to see all of the family and how they've grown over the years in size, heart, relationship, and life. The Henderson saga is one family drama that stays with you and you can never get enough.
44 reviews
February 17, 2024
country hood love

I never thought I would like any hood story but this country hood series has made me a fan. This series highlighted strong family loyalty and love . My emotions were all over the place, some of the topics as child abuse were hard to read my heart ached for the victims and their families .I liked how the author highlighted mental health and many of the characters sort out counseling, some thing which seldom happens in African American communities. The love stories and the action between the sheets had me reaching for a cool drink many times. The humor had me laughing out loud and I cried when something tragic happened. In other words this series was awesome I’m glad I took a chance. I highly recommend it. Start at book 1 you won’t be able to put it down. Good job Ms Walters I look forward to reading more from you.
316 reviews
September 2, 2024
Love bears all things

Tyeis fell for Decaurey when she first met him. She almost ended their relationship before it could even get started by withholding information from him. Decaurey also had strong feelings for Tyeis. He was starting to get frustrated with her moodiness and her constantly pushing him away. He was ready for a serious relationship and felt she was playing games. Her finally being truthful about her mental health made her think that he wouldn't want to deal with her. As much as he wanted to give up on the relationship his feelings for her were strong and he gave her another chance and helped he realize that he would be by her side and wasn't going anywhere.
Profile Image for Shanelle.
1,482 reviews21 followers
November 22, 2023
GOOD READ

You can never get enough of the Hendersons and their support for one another. This one was different because It dealt with mental illness. Mental health is so real and needs to be addressed more often. Although Tyeis was hesitant to share with Decaurey what she was going through, I loved how supportive he was of her and rallied behind her all the way. I especially loved his relationship with Angel. Mama Hendersons last moments with her children were very emotional. Her legacy will definitely live on with the new additions coming into the family. Can't wait for the next book.
198 reviews
January 25, 2025
No judgement...

This is the first book I've read where both the parent and child has a mental disability but it's not so severe that it limits them being functioning people. Tyeis is a very good parent to her sweet daughter Angel who she was raising alone. Then she meets Decaurey, a man with a good heart and has a good head on his shoulders. He's a hard worker who has his own business. Tyeis didn't want to get into a relationship with him in the beginning but she comes to realize that he's a good man and once he finds out about her mental issues it doesn't stop him from wanting to pursue a relationship.
57 reviews
Read
December 30, 2023
Don't Walk Away #17

I love the relationship between Decaurey and Tyeis. I love how open and straightforward Decaurey is with Tyeis. I love how all the Henderson's take care and ride for each other. This story like all of Monica Walters send me through a number of emotions. That part with K J had me in tears. Storm and his kids are a trip but hilarious. I would tell family and friends about this book. Keep up the great job Ms. Walters. Looking forward to more stories about the Henderson family. Forever a fan Lady T.
Profile Image for Alicia Sims.
1,141 reviews3 followers
October 25, 2023
🔥🔥🔥 Another Henderson Hit! 😍

Decaurey may not be a Henderson by blood, but he definitely a Henderson 🤣 I thought he was going to be a butthole to Tyeis but he was the man his parents raised him to be. He was up for any challenge that involved her. I loved Tyeis's relationship with her daughter. Being a single mother is rough, but it's a bit more difficult with a special needs child and your own mental health concern. And my Storm 🥰 I love that man Mr. Mayor of Big City Nome!😁
Profile Image for Ieshia Shephard.
592 reviews
October 25, 2023
Henderson 17

Okay Monica! Now I had a feeling moma Henderson was gonna die but I still wasn’t ready! I know I cried at least a full 5 minutes! This story shows your craft & how you actually show character development. I like how you progress each character’s life!

Now to Ty & Caurey! I totally feel in love with Ty cause I have the same mental battle she has. I knew some parts before it happened caused I lived it! I’m glad Caurey will be a father! I loved this book!!!!
Profile Image for fuquan holmes.
439 reviews
October 27, 2023
Crazy Love ❤️

Decaurey's story didn't disappoint at all , he's with the female version of Storm . I'm glad Ty gained the family she so needed and Angel too . I wasn't originally a fan of hers but once you got more descriptive she won me over . I can't believe grandma is gone , I actually feel bad for senior. I can't wait to the next book so I can keep up with all my cousins . Storm For Mayor !!!!
Profile Image for Lisa.
1,944 reviews13 followers
January 29, 2024
Great read so many emotions!

I loved this story! Decaurey was so carrying towards Tyeise and Angel! Her mental disorder and the fact that Angel had her issue was nothing to him once Tyeise was honest with him! It was so sad that Grandma Henderson transitioned but I loved how the whole clan rallied around Grandpa Henderson and each other. I love this family and look forward to more updates! They are really expanding the family too! Great read Monica!
Profile Image for Verlana Munn.
2,018 reviews40 followers
April 7, 2024
After The Storm There Will Be Sunshine!

Monica, I don't know how I missed this read. When I tell you I'm so proud of Decaurey. He really surprised me in a good way. Tyeis,got a double surprise. To see how forgiveness can be the backbone of a great life.
Storm will always be my favorite character of all. He really knows how to put things into perspective. It may be done in a strange way but everything he says seems to be true. 🤗🤗🤗🤗
Profile Image for T K Vaugh.
1,543 reviews7 followers
August 9, 2024
Decaurey and Tyeis, Healing of the Minds and Hearts

My emotions were all over the place with this one here!!!…I can’t wait to see how this family continues to move after the loss they suffered!!!…
There is abundance of love and babies coming in this family!!!…
There was so great topics discussed and I love how the family tackled them!!!…
Jessica exhausted me with the back and forth, but I’m hoping Nate understands and knows how valuable he is and know there is a woman that will love Ana appreciate him!!…My heart broke for him because he’s in love with Jessica and watching from the background is only going to keep in a state of hurt and confusion!!!…
918 reviews
August 17, 2024
I love the relationship between Tyeis and her daughter Angel. Tyeis was not comfortable with her mental illness and hid if from Decaurey until the rubber hit the road.

There were emotional moments in the book and the part with Kenny, lord help me my emotions were in a high!

It is always great catching up with Mayor Storm LOL 😂. He and the children are something else. I cannot fathom how Aspen deals with her household.
1,208 reviews4 followers
October 12, 2023
Awesome Read

Decaurey was ready for love. Tyeis wanted love but was afraid due to her illness. They went through so many obstacles before getting it right. Her getting pregnant with twins was the icing on the cake. Decaurey fell fast and hard for her. They managed to find happiness that also included her daughter. Awesome read!
148 reviews1 follower
October 14, 2023
Don't Walk Away was all of that!

I liked how family oriented the story was. I loved how unpredictable the characters could be at any moment. It was definitely a great story with immature lovers finding their way back to each other. Disliked how easy they could get involved with strangers. Would recommend to my friends, it's a great read with some funny segments.
Profile Image for Shanita Grayson.
42 reviews1 follower
October 19, 2023
Awesome

This was a great read. I went through so many emotions reading this book. One minute I was aggravated and mad. The next minute I was laughing and crying. DeCaurey and Tyeis story was filled with many ups and downs but the ending was so beautiful. I can’t wait to receive updates on them.
Profile Image for Donna D Smalls.
321 reviews
October 21, 2023
I enjoyed it

Monica you are an amazing writer. Your character building is always on point. And I love the positive changes that love brings to their. Thank for talking about mental health and how important it is for us African American folks to take care of ours. Can't wait to your next book.
102 reviews
October 21, 2023
Taking a chance on Love

It is an awesome story of two people not afraid to take a chance on loving someone. I was worried in the beginning, but Tyeis came around, and Decaurey did not let pride make him miss his chance for true love. They were really nasty, yall. They were getting it in everywhere. Whew! Hot Stuff again, Mrs. Walters
Profile Image for Lorraine.
346 reviews1 follower
October 21, 2023
Good read

I always enjoy Monica Walter's books this one was really sweet. I loved how Decaurey loved and protected his woman. I also love how this author talks about mental health issues and therapy in her books. I can't wait to see what happens next with the Henderson's and all these babies, great read!!
85 reviews1 follower
November 26, 2023
Mad but very intrigued

I waited to writ a review till I finished the series. I'm mad because I am to invested in this city and family. Lol. The whole series was very interesting but I feel like some lives could have a story also. I know I'm a little late but I just ran across this series Andi can't wait to read more from Ms. Walters.
220 reviews2 followers
November 28, 2023
Love it!!

I really enjoyed Decaurey and Tyeis's and can't wait for Jakari's! They were Jasper and Chas 2.0!! LOL I did not know I was going to need tissues!! The slight crossover with the Berottes was *chef's kiss* but I know Storm aka Uncle Mayor did not like that! 5 stars as always.. the Hendersons are growing!
Profile Image for Fushia.
43 reviews1 follower
January 5, 2024
Ms. Walters done done it again!!

you always pull the emotions straight from me… i done grown so attached to this family. now i wanna be from big city nome . the way this family rides for each other is sooooo beautiful. the way they hold each other accountable and support one another. you’re a true artist with your words!!! you create magic with that pen ms. ma’am . thank you!
5 reviews
January 6, 2024
Amazing

Monica NEVER disappoints!!! This book touched on so many issues to include mental health. The love that Decuarry shows Tyeis was just what she needed to show her that she too could be loved and she was valued. I also love how Monica highlighted Angel and living with Down’s syndrome. Monica Walters is a beast with a pen…hang on you’ll love book 17!!!
14 reviews
April 11, 2024
This one almost took me out!!

I absolutely love reading about the Henderson crew. It's exciting to see the evolution of the family. I thought I was done for reading about little Kendrick. But this book had me emotionally tapped out. And Kenny! It's always the quiet ones you got to look out for. Excellent book.
Profile Image for Jimette J..
626 reviews5 followers
April 21, 2024
Love Is…

Strength…..Decaurey was that for Tyeis. She needed to believe in the essence of love and how it could change people and circumstances. Decaurey brought that to life for Ty. Regardless of what she did, he constantly showed her love. Let’s not even talk about the family shenanigans! Can’t wait for the next book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews

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