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Captivated by Him: The Billionaire and the Bully
Oaklyn wants more. She deserves it. And once she gains the interest of billionaire oil tycoon, Barron Watts, he gives her everything she wants and more. Finally, Oaklyn has everything she’s ever wanted or needed. Life is perfect, except for the nagging suspicion her billionaire man is hiding something. Something isn’t right. Something about Barron is all wrong. Barron has a secret. And the thing about secrets… they never stay hidden for long. Meanwhile, Oaklyn is hiding a secret of her own. She’s been seeing another man. Brick is the complete opposite of Barron. Brick is a hood street bully… and he’s all wrong for Oaklyn. Yet the feelings she has for him can’t be denied. A passionate ride of emotions, murder, and secrets, Oaklyn finds herself torn between a billionaire with a secret and a trigger happy bully that would do anything to keep her.
- GenresAfrican American Romance
392 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2023
About the author
Tara Ellis
10 books146 followersTara Ellis is the author of Black Romantic Suspense novels.
Her novels blend romance with a touch of danger, and she believes every heroine deserves a happily-ever-after. When she’s not plotting dangerous secrets and shocking twists, Tara is somewhere binging on true crime television shows.
Keep up with Tara on Facebook by liking her page @authortaraellis and Instagram @authortaraellis1
Her novels blend romance with a touch of danger, and she believes every heroine deserves a happily-ever-after. When she’s not plotting dangerous secrets and shocking twists, Tara is somewhere binging on true crime television shows.
Keep up with Tara on Facebook by liking her page @authortaraellis and Instagram @authortaraellis1
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
February 27, 2024
I was not expecting to love this book as much as I did!!!! Yall know I’ve been in my NTMA bag and I’ve had some hits and I’ve had some misses. Well this was a K.O., home run, slam dunk and whatever else you can think to call it!!
Exceptional!!! Like I LOVED this book sooooooo damn much I started recommending it before I was even finished! The concept was original, the storyline was captivating and it really had you guessing until the very end!! I mean, when I say I want a 5 💫 book, 🗣️THIS IS WHAT I MEAN!!!!!!
Oaklyn had a rough life. I mean everything that could go wrong did! She was a fighter tho and she was not giving up until she took her last breath! I admired her character and everything she stood for from beginning to end! Just when she seemed to have gotten her footing, she was knocked back down. Oh but Barron 🤭 this man was a savior if I’ve ever seen one! He was charming, the BDE was activated and he was a billionaire with limitless resources. Barron was on his 🎶 Partner, let me upgrade you, Introduce you to some new things, and upgrade you 🎶 and I was here for it!!
Despite Barron coming into Oaklyn’s life like a knight in shining armor, he was not without his fair share of secrets and when those secrets came tumbling out…… BABY!!!!! Mouth👏🏽 wide 👏🏽open 👏🏽 whew!!! 🤯🤯🤯 I wasn’t ready for the way this story unfolded!!
I’m telling yall, you’re going to love this one!! This book owes me nothing and I cannot wait to dive into more of Tara’s catalog!! Bra-fkn-vo!!!!
Exceptional!!! Like I LOVED this book sooooooo damn much I started recommending it before I was even finished! The concept was original, the storyline was captivating and it really had you guessing until the very end!! I mean, when I say I want a 5 💫 book, 🗣️THIS IS WHAT I MEAN!!!!!!
Oaklyn had a rough life. I mean everything that could go wrong did! She was a fighter tho and she was not giving up until she took her last breath! I admired her character and everything she stood for from beginning to end! Just when she seemed to have gotten her footing, she was knocked back down. Oh but Barron 🤭 this man was a savior if I’ve ever seen one! He was charming, the BDE was activated and he was a billionaire with limitless resources. Barron was on his 🎶 Partner, let me upgrade you, Introduce you to some new things, and upgrade you 🎶 and I was here for it!!
Despite Barron coming into Oaklyn’s life like a knight in shining armor, he was not without his fair share of secrets and when those secrets came tumbling out…… BABY!!!!! Mouth👏🏽 wide 👏🏽open 👏🏽 whew!!! 🤯🤯🤯 I wasn’t ready for the way this story unfolded!!
I’m telling yall, you’re going to love this one!! This book owes me nothing and I cannot wait to dive into more of Tara’s catalog!! Bra-fkn-vo!!!!
December 16, 2023
100% YES!
4.5✨- Captivated by Him was phenomenal! I truly enjoyed this read. The beginning pulled me in and around 45% I was losing my mind. Like losing all my marbles. I kept saying, “I need to know how this is gonna end!” I had to stay the course! 😩🫠
The book is broken into three parts and at the conclusion of each part there’s a breadcrumb leading to the next. This is a stand-alone! It includes suspense, opposites attract, mental health rep, supportive friendships, and family secrets. The main characters are Oaklyn, Barron, and Brick; however, the side characters were important to the storyline. The main characters endured traumatic experiences that changed the trajectory of their lives. I would even say they unknowingly bonded over the traumas. As things unfold, relationships were tested and it rattled my emotions. It made me question, how deep is too deeply in love? Like, can you love someone the way that Oaklyn loved or the way Brick and Barron loved her?
I was drooling over this entire book because it blew me away. I put my Social Work hat on early in the story and I had to remind myself that this was a work of fiction. I adored the way the author intertwined mental health and therapy into the story. I also loved how both characters were so distinctly different from each other. I teared up a few times and I loved the ending. My only critique is I wish the conversation between Larissa and Oaklyn was shown on the page, even if it was a flashback scene. Nonetheless, Read this book!!
4.5✨- Captivated by Him was phenomenal! I truly enjoyed this read. The beginning pulled me in and around 45% I was losing my mind. Like losing all my marbles. I kept saying, “I need to know how this is gonna end!” I had to stay the course! 😩🫠
The book is broken into three parts and at the conclusion of each part there’s a breadcrumb leading to the next. This is a stand-alone! It includes suspense, opposites attract, mental health rep, supportive friendships, and family secrets. The main characters are Oaklyn, Barron, and Brick; however, the side characters were important to the storyline. The main characters endured traumatic experiences that changed the trajectory of their lives. I would even say they unknowingly bonded over the traumas. As things unfold, relationships were tested and it rattled my emotions. It made me question, how deep is too deeply in love? Like, can you love someone the way that Oaklyn loved or the way Brick and Barron loved her?
I was drooling over this entire book because it blew me away. I put my Social Work hat on early in the story and I had to remind myself that this was a work of fiction. I adored the way the author intertwined mental health and therapy into the story. I also loved how both characters were so distinctly different from each other. I teared up a few times and I loved the ending. My only critique is I wish the conversation between Larissa and Oaklyn was shown on the page, even if it was a flashback scene. Nonetheless, Read this book!!
March 4, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
This was a page turner.
I went into this story blind and I’m so glad I did. There was a point where I thought I had everything figured out but the author has a way of making you second guess yourself. There was also a point where I was over the fmc and I’m sure some of you will be too but stay down. Keep reading!
I woke up this morning, pacing the floor while reading because I just HAD to figure this out. This one is definitely worth the read and I’m going to dig into the author’s catalog for sure.
This was a page turner.
I went into this story blind and I’m so glad I did. There was a point where I thought I had everything figured out but the author has a way of making you second guess yourself. There was also a point where I was over the fmc and I’m sure some of you will be too but stay down. Keep reading!
I woke up this morning, pacing the floor while reading because I just HAD to figure this out. This one is definitely worth the read and I’m going to dig into the author’s catalog for sure.
March 4, 2024
wowowow 4.5⭐️
This book was so good. I’m kinda speechless, sad, and happy all at the same time.
This book will have you questioning yourself because several times I caught on to what was going on but then I was like this can’t be right! Lol
Even though I eventually predicted what was going on the author did so well with tying everything together and giving us closure. This book was well-written from beginning to end.
Oaklyn, Barron, and Brick will definitely take you on a ride.
This book was so good. I’m kinda speechless, sad, and happy all at the same time.
This book will have you questioning yourself because several times I caught on to what was going on but then I was like this can’t be right! Lol
Even though I eventually predicted what was going on the author did so well with tying everything together and giving us closure. This book was well-written from beginning to end.
Oaklyn, Barron, and Brick will definitely take you on a ride.
February 28, 2024
Chef’s Kiss! 👩🏽🍳 💋
This book had me in a headlock and wouldn’t let go. It’s a must read.
This book had me in a headlock and wouldn’t let go. It’s a must read.
December 7, 2025
4.25⭐️ This book had such a unique storyline. Barron, Oaklyn, & Brink had me shook. The book took off for me at the 70% mark. That’s when I got all the emotions. I didn’t really feel the chemistry between Barron & Oaklyn. I felt it more between her & Brink!
I’m glad I went into this book blind because it kept me on my toes! Okayyy Tara. Great introduction into your catalog. ❤️
I’m glad I went into this book blind because it kept me on my toes! Okayyy Tara. Great introduction into your catalog. ❤️
February 23, 2024
This was really good but I need to go back and reread before I write a review.
February 13, 2024
I was just thinking how much I love you. And need you.” He pulls me closer and kisses my forehead. “Like water, baby?” I smile and nod. “Just like water.”
I absolutely loved Barron and Oaklyn. Their connection was so profound 🥰🥰
I absolutely loved Barron and Oaklyn. Their connection was so profound 🥰🥰
September 25, 2024
Unconditional Love
I love an original story and this NTMA did that. This story was so engaging and I loved that it kept me on edge.
Oaklyn was barely keeping her head above water and in fact she was one step near homelessness even though she was working multiple jobs. She ran into Barron, and the B was for Billionaire, at a side job and thought about the possibility of life with him....Chile this book was so interesting. I loved the plot twist with the Bully. Although, I had it figured out, I was unsure how it was all going to end. I don't want to go too deep because I want you to enjoy uncovering the layers of the story just like I did.
There were some grammatical errors that could have been cleaner. Overall a good read.
I love an original story and this NTMA did that. This story was so engaging and I loved that it kept me on edge.
Oaklyn was barely keeping her head above water and in fact she was one step near homelessness even though she was working multiple jobs. She ran into Barron, and the B was for Billionaire, at a side job and thought about the possibility of life with him....Chile this book was so interesting. I loved the plot twist with the Bully. Although, I had it figured out, I was unsure how it was all going to end. I don't want to go too deep because I want you to enjoy uncovering the layers of the story just like I did.
There were some grammatical errors that could have been cleaner. Overall a good read.
July 25, 2025
Captivating Read
This was such a stressful but good read. This is a new to me author which is what stressed me out the most because I didn’t know what to expect. Sometimes authors go further than you think because it’s a romance. Luckily for my blood pressure she didn’t do me too bad. I really enjoyed the suspense, even if it had me reading to bop Oklyn upside her head. I’m also really glad that everyone went set on somebody’s couch eventually cause bay be!! I will definitely be adding more Tara Ellis to my TBR.
This was such a stressful but good read. This is a new to me author which is what stressed me out the most because I didn’t know what to expect. Sometimes authors go further than you think because it’s a romance. Luckily for my blood pressure she didn’t do me too bad. I really enjoyed the suspense, even if it had me reading to bop Oklyn upside her head. I’m also really glad that everyone went set on somebody’s couch eventually cause bay be!! I will definitely be adding more Tara Ellis to my TBR.
January 10, 2024
Whoa 😳
I was totally not expecting this…..wow! I was expecting a love triangle but baaaaaaby this was something else. The plot twists were crazy! This story was amazing and definitely blew my mind. Go into this story blind. I highly highly recommend it! 🤯🤯🤯🤯
I was totally not expecting this…..wow! I was expecting a love triangle but baaaaaaby this was something else. The plot twists were crazy! This story was amazing and definitely blew my mind. Go into this story blind. I highly highly recommend it! 🤯🤯🤯🤯
March 4, 2024
I don’t even know where to start. Let’s just say this book was nothing like I was expecting… I absolutely loved it!!! This is a new to me author and I was NOT expecting to love this book like I did. Go read it!!
February 29, 2024
WOW.
this book was so damn good. Even though I predicted the end the ride was worth it. That's all I'm going to say without giving away spoilers but definitely read 10 out of 10!
this book was so damn good. Even though I predicted the end the ride was worth it. That's all I'm going to say without giving away spoilers but definitely read 10 out of 10!
March 2, 2024
“Just like water”
Uhmm…I’m speechless! Just here crying and missing Brick 😭
Uhmm…I’m speechless! Just here crying and missing Brick 😭
November 25, 2023
Amazing read!
Loving someone through their trauma, might form what's referred to as a trauma bond, but it also creates a devotion so deep and so pure, nothing can break it
Oaklyn was dealing with a lot of heartache, struggle, and pain. Bit having her beat friend/sister at her side and a will to love brought her through. A chance encounter with a beautiful and magnetic billionaire that was as drawn to her as she was to him seemed like a dream come true. This was a beautiful, soul stirring journey of healing and pure love.
This was my first read from this author and definitely won't be my last. The writing style, character development, storyline and plot twist were all chefs kiss.
Loving someone through their trauma, might form what's referred to as a trauma bond, but it also creates a devotion so deep and so pure, nothing can break it
Oaklyn was dealing with a lot of heartache, struggle, and pain. Bit having her beat friend/sister at her side and a will to love brought her through. A chance encounter with a beautiful and magnetic billionaire that was as drawn to her as she was to him seemed like a dream come true. This was a beautiful, soul stirring journey of healing and pure love.
This was my first read from this author and definitely won't be my last. The writing style, character development, storyline and plot twist were all chefs kiss.
March 14, 2024
Part 3!!!
This book put me through a lot. I experienced a whole range of emotions and I don’t know whether or not to be annoyed with this author or be in awe.
While experiencing all the negative emotions Part 3 happened and I’m not sure what kind of sorcery was cast between each page but it ripped me apart, put me together then soothed me.
I’m annoyed. I didn’t even like Brick and I was questioning Oakley’s actions but towards the end of the book it was boo hoo tears for Brick.
This book put me through a lot. I experienced a whole range of emotions and I don’t know whether or not to be annoyed with this author or be in awe.
While experiencing all the negative emotions Part 3 happened and I’m not sure what kind of sorcery was cast between each page but it ripped me apart, put me together then soothed me.
I’m annoyed. I didn’t even like Brick and I was questioning Oakley’s actions but towards the end of the book it was boo hoo tears for Brick.
January 5, 2025
Wow
All the questions that’s was running through my head this whole story … Absolutely loved it! I don’t even know how to speak on it without giving anything away. Just read it . It will have you shocked
All the questions that’s was running through my head this whole story … Absolutely loved it! I don’t even know how to speak on it without giving anything away. Just read it . It will have you shocked
December 2, 2023
The plot twist I’m this book was good!!
March 8, 2024
I have nothing to say other than read this damn book!
November 27, 2023
Brilliant!
This is my first read by this author, but I will be reading more! I finished all 379 pages in one day then was so hurt I finished. lol It was so beautifully written! I did not review right away. I went to sleep with these characters on my mind and woke up with them on my mind. I will be reading this book again; I enjoyed it that much. I kept saying is it what I think, nah it’s not what I think. I will recommend to everyone who will listen. Definitely, one of my favorite books of 2023.
This is my first read by this author, but I will be reading more! I finished all 379 pages in one day then was so hurt I finished. lol It was so beautifully written! I did not review right away. I went to sleep with these characters on my mind and woke up with them on my mind. I will be reading this book again; I enjoyed it that much. I kept saying is it what I think, nah it’s not what I think. I will recommend to everyone who will listen. Definitely, one of my favorite books of 2023.
May 30, 2025
Fascinating!!! Mind Blowing!!!! Captivating!!!! Compelling!!!!!
Barron, Oaklyn, & Brick are so well developed you can't help turning the pages to see what will happen next. Miss Tara deserves a standing ovation for this bad boy!!!!!!!! She absolutely took me inside of a man who is loving, kind, generous, respectful, diligent, super wealthy, super handsome, and knows how to treat and protect his Queen. However, then she reveals his other side and the reason why.
Not only an incredible story, but crazy disturbing at the same time!
Barron, Oaklyn, & Brick are so well developed you can't help turning the pages to see what will happen next. Miss Tara deserves a standing ovation for this bad boy!!!!!!!! She absolutely took me inside of a man who is loving, kind, generous, respectful, diligent, super wealthy, super handsome, and knows how to treat and protect his Queen. However, then she reveals his other side and the reason why.
Not only an incredible story, but crazy disturbing at the same time!
May 3, 2026
This book absolutely put me through it!!!! Talk about freaking plot twist that I was not expecting at all. Ms Author played with my heart and emotions but wow this was too good.
The ending was so healthy as well. Especially loved that he chose to do therapy to protect him and his family.
The ending was so healthy as well. Especially loved that he chose to do therapy to protect him and his family.
December 9, 2023
Enjoyed this!!!
First person is not my cup of tea, but I think story had a little Hennessey in it. I really enjoyed reading this and watching Oaklyn love every part of Barron.
First person is not my cup of tea, but I think story had a little Hennessey in it. I really enjoyed reading this and watching Oaklyn love every part of Barron.
March 8, 2024
You can’t call yourself freaking with crazy men till you freaked on not one but two. I’ll defend this book to the end of time
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 26, 2023
Geeshhhh
If this book didn’t grab and hold my attention! Mann Barron and Brick were two men that women would definitely need in their lives. Oaklyn and Barron are couple goals. Y’all please read this book, you will not be disappointed at all! Awesome read
If this book didn’t grab and hold my attention! Mann Barron and Brick were two men that women would definitely need in their lives. Oaklyn and Barron are couple goals. Y’all please read this book, you will not be disappointed at all! Awesome read
April 8, 2024
Very Interesting
My mouth was wide open while reading. Shocked and surprised as I was reading. Was not expecting ANYTHING that happened.
My mouth was wide open while reading. Shocked and surprised as I was reading. Was not expecting ANYTHING that happened.
September 26, 2026
📚 The Synopsis Said One Thing… The Book Said “SIKE!” 😂
Okayyyy… let me start by saying this is strictly my subjective opinion because clearly other readers have had VERY different experiences with this book. 😂📚
First things first: the title and synopsis had me expecting one kind of story, and what I actually read took me somewhere COMPLETELY different. The synopsis sets you up for a billionaire, a bully, a complicated love situation, secrets, murder, and drama. And yes, those elements are there… but baby, the plot eventually said, “You thought you knew what you were reading? 😂 THINK AGAIN.”
One thing I actually appreciated was the mental-health aspect of the story. I had honestly never heard of Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) before reading this book, so it definitely introduced me to something I knew very little about. I thought it was interesting that the author incorporated a condition that many people may be living with while also bringing attention to trauma and its impact. 🧠💭
Now, did I love EVERYTHING? Absolutely not. 😂 This book had me sitting there like, “Wait… WHAT are we doing now?” There were definitely moments when I had to pause, process, and question the direction of the plot. My Kindle and I were in a toxic relationship by the end. 📖😭
I wouldn't call this a bad read, but for me, it was definitely not a five-star read. The direction the plot took just wasn't completely my cup of tea. At the same time, I wouldn't say it was horrible either. There were parts that genuinely kept me reading because I wanted to see how everything was going to unfold.
Would I give Tara Ellis another try since this was my first book by her?
YES. 🙌🏽
Because one book isn't enough for me to decide an author isn't for me. I can appreciate the creativity, the unexpected direction, and the fact that she took the story somewhere I absolutely wasn't expecting.
That said, for ME, this wasn't the best I've read when it comes to urban fiction. But I survived the emotional roller coaster, made it to the end, and that's a win. 😂🎢📚
Final thoughts: Not horrible. Not my favorite. Definitely unexpected. Definitely gave me something to think about. And now I know what DID is, so technically the book taught me something. 😂🧠
Would I recommend it? If you enjoy unexpected plot twists, complicated characters, drama, and stories that take you somewhere you weren't planning to go… give it a try. Just don't blame me if you're sitting there talking to the book like I was! 😂😂
🌻📚 Read it and form your own opinion!
Okayyyy… let me start by saying this is strictly my subjective opinion because clearly other readers have had VERY different experiences with this book. 😂📚
First things first: the title and synopsis had me expecting one kind of story, and what I actually read took me somewhere COMPLETELY different. The synopsis sets you up for a billionaire, a bully, a complicated love situation, secrets, murder, and drama. And yes, those elements are there… but baby, the plot eventually said, “You thought you knew what you were reading? 😂 THINK AGAIN.”
One thing I actually appreciated was the mental-health aspect of the story. I had honestly never heard of Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) before reading this book, so it definitely introduced me to something I knew very little about. I thought it was interesting that the author incorporated a condition that many people may be living with while also bringing attention to trauma and its impact. 🧠💭
Now, did I love EVERYTHING? Absolutely not. 😂 This book had me sitting there like, “Wait… WHAT are we doing now?” There were definitely moments when I had to pause, process, and question the direction of the plot. My Kindle and I were in a toxic relationship by the end. 📖😭
I wouldn't call this a bad read, but for me, it was definitely not a five-star read. The direction the plot took just wasn't completely my cup of tea. At the same time, I wouldn't say it was horrible either. There were parts that genuinely kept me reading because I wanted to see how everything was going to unfold.
Would I give Tara Ellis another try since this was my first book by her?
YES. 🙌🏽
Because one book isn't enough for me to decide an author isn't for me. I can appreciate the creativity, the unexpected direction, and the fact that she took the story somewhere I absolutely wasn't expecting.
That said, for ME, this wasn't the best I've read when it comes to urban fiction. But I survived the emotional roller coaster, made it to the end, and that's a win. 😂🎢📚
Final thoughts: Not horrible. Not my favorite. Definitely unexpected. Definitely gave me something to think about. And now I know what DID is, so technically the book taught me something. 😂🧠
Would I recommend it? If you enjoy unexpected plot twists, complicated characters, drama, and stories that take you somewhere you weren't planning to go… give it a try. Just don't blame me if you're sitting there talking to the book like I was! 😂😂
🌻📚 Read it and form your own opinion!
August 16, 2025
At first about halfway through the book I was going to rate it lower and almost DNF because I was soo confused. I love the story idea but again, I think it could've been plotted better and it should've been turned into 3 parts series instead.
It would've been nice if the author introduced Bricks character early on especially when he was 17 and onwards. And if she gave us scenes from both Brick's & Oaklyn childhood to better understand them. Because I was lost & couldn't connect with any of the characters😔. Their motives didn't make any sense to me. for example she made Barron move slow but she rushed things with Brick.
And I couldn't figure out why Oaklyn preferred Brick in the first place when Barron clearly treated her better😅. We were introduced to Barron's larger than life character & enjoyed him spoiling her. So I was not keen to suddenly accept Brick's character just because.
I really couldnt understand what it was about Brick that caused her to fall madly in love. To the point that she preferred him over Barron lol I couldn't believe that! 🤣 Like what was it? What is it his hood appeal?? 😂 his thuggish ways? 😂 was it the thrill of it all? The author never really clarified that. So I was confused and almost stopped reading. Then that big secret was revealed and I was like "ohhh okay, I see" lol but was still confused with a ton of unanswered questions lol
The book felt a little rushed at certain parts of the story and there were some loose ends. Like we never found out why Lou was apprehensive of Barron? Did he know his well kept secret? And technically, Oakley wasn't cheating 🤣 the fact that she felt guilty left me confused. And how did Trap not know? The more I think about it the more I'm confused. It's a great story just wished she tied up all loose ends. I think 300+ pages weren't enough for such a big storyline.
I loved the theme of mental health so that's the reason I gave it such a high rating.
It would've been nice if the author introduced Bricks character early on especially when he was 17 and onwards. And if she gave us scenes from both Brick's & Oaklyn childhood to better understand them. Because I was lost & couldn't connect with any of the characters😔. Their motives didn't make any sense to me. for example she made Barron move slow but she rushed things with Brick.
And I couldn't figure out why Oaklyn preferred Brick in the first place when Barron clearly treated her better😅. We were introduced to Barron's larger than life character & enjoyed him spoiling her. So I was not keen to suddenly accept Brick's character just because.
I really couldnt understand what it was about Brick that caused her to fall madly in love. To the point that she preferred him over Barron lol I couldn't believe that! 🤣 Like what was it? What is it his hood appeal?? 😂 his thuggish ways? 😂 was it the thrill of it all? The author never really clarified that. So I was confused and almost stopped reading. Then that big secret was revealed and I was like "ohhh okay, I see" lol but was still confused with a ton of unanswered questions lol
The book felt a little rushed at certain parts of the story and there were some loose ends. Like we never found out why Lou was apprehensive of Barron? Did he know his well kept secret? And technically, Oakley wasn't cheating 🤣 the fact that she felt guilty left me confused. And how did Trap not know? The more I think about it the more I'm confused. It's a great story just wished she tied up all loose ends. I think 300+ pages weren't enough for such a big storyline.
I loved the theme of mental health so that's the reason I gave it such a high rating.
September 24, 2025
The synopsis doesn’t do the book justice!!
This book was absolutely beautiful. It’s rare that I get emotional reading a book but when it happens, I’m always grateful. It gives me the feeling that I had when I first decided that literature would always hold a place in my heart ❤️
Now, let’s get into this book. I don’t read books with love triangles so I’ve skipped over this book a few times. But this is not a love triangle, this is mental health awareness with a twist. You’ll love both Barron and Brick for Oaklyn. You’ll swoon, cry, and laugh with her as she processes how to love unconditionally. This book could’ve been longer but I can respect how the author chose to end the story. Do I want a continued series with Deja and Trap…yes! But it doesn’t take away from how great this book is. Oaklyn is a real one. She starts out as a damsel but quickly becomes the woman required to help Barron and his family heal.
Devout by Takerra Allen is similar to this story. Especially with Oaklyn, Brick, and Barron saying, “like water”, as a sentimental reference to the magnitude of their need for each other’s love. It reminded me so much of Denny and Neeka saying, “like oxygen”. But this book looks like it was published first. Regardless, both are top tier!
Just read the book!
Spice - 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Plot - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was absolutely beautiful. It’s rare that I get emotional reading a book but when it happens, I’m always grateful. It gives me the feeling that I had when I first decided that literature would always hold a place in my heart ❤️
Now, let’s get into this book. I don’t read books with love triangles so I’ve skipped over this book a few times. But this is not a love triangle, this is mental health awareness with a twist. You’ll love both Barron and Brick for Oaklyn. You’ll swoon, cry, and laugh with her as she processes how to love unconditionally. This book could’ve been longer but I can respect how the author chose to end the story. Do I want a continued series with Deja and Trap…yes! But it doesn’t take away from how great this book is. Oaklyn is a real one. She starts out as a damsel but quickly becomes the woman required to help Barron and his family heal.
Devout by Takerra Allen is similar to this story. Especially with Oaklyn, Brick, and Barron saying, “like water”, as a sentimental reference to the magnitude of their need for each other’s love. It reminded me so much of Denny and Neeka saying, “like oxygen”. But this book looks like it was published first. Regardless, both are top tier!
Just read the book!
Spice - 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Plot - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 2, 2025
This book had me in a tailspin! From the moment Oaklynn met Brick, I found myself talking to the book—out loud—like a madwoman. I was on edge the entire time. WTF is this masterpiece?!
If you have any knowledge of psychology, you might think you have a hunch about what's going on. But just when you start feeling confident, the author throws you completely off-kilter, making you question your own sanity—though deep down, you *know*. I had to put this book down multiple times just to process everything, and by 72%, I needed a full-on break. I was *so* mad at Oaklynn. But when I picked it back up? She proved herself to be a **REAL ONE**.
This book is *AMAZING*. It makes you want to go back and retrace your steps, picking apart every detail. Oaklynn handled everything so well, and by the final stretch, I was an emotional wreck. I wanted to have my cake and eat it too—if that were even possible. By the end, I was a blubbering mess.
If you have any knowledge of psychology, you might think you have a hunch about what's going on. But just when you start feeling confident, the author throws you completely off-kilter, making you question your own sanity—though deep down, you *know*. I had to put this book down multiple times just to process everything, and by 72%, I needed a full-on break. I was *so* mad at Oaklynn. But when I picked it back up? She proved herself to be a **REAL ONE**.
This book is *AMAZING*. It makes you want to go back and retrace your steps, picking apart every detail. Oaklynn handled everything so well, and by the final stretch, I was an emotional wreck. I wanted to have my cake and eat it too—if that were even possible. By the end, I was a blubbering mess.
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