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The Collective #2
Dawning and Resurgence
“I’ll never ask for you to be with me, to love me, to appreciate me and what I have to offer. Everything I do will be for you. I will be unabashedly devoted to making you happy. The choice will always have to be yours. But if you continue to choose me? I promise to give you everything I am, everything I will ever be, everything you can even imagine. There will never be a moment of your life where you will ever question where I stand with you, how I feel, or whether I choose you. But I’ll never ask, Jhorie. I can’t. The choice will always have to be yours.” - Ezekiel
“You’ll never have to ask because the decision has already been made. I’ve already chosen you, Ezekiel, and my choice is never changing.” -Jhorie
This is our story…
*Dawning and Resurgence a standalone novel which can be read alone, however for a better reading experience, it’s best to begin with Shadows and Whispers.*
“You’ll never have to ask because the decision has already been made. I’ve already chosen you, Ezekiel, and my choice is never changing.” -Jhorie
This is our story…
*Dawning and Resurgence a standalone novel which can be read alone, however for a better reading experience, it’s best to begin with Shadows and Whispers.*
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 30, 2023
417 people are currently reading
463 people want to read
About the author
K.C. Mills
198 books1,728 followersKC Mills is an international bestselling author, speaker, and CEO. Ranked along with well respected authors, Mills has over 100 books which have hit number 1 bestsellers. She has proven herself as a leader in her industry with over 120 successful books written and published within a five year timeframe. She is committed to bringing exceptional literary works that offer a romantic twist, as well as subtlety veering away from the norm. She still however leaves you captivated by her stories, characters and always wanting more. Mills’ current focus is her cross over to the script writing arena where she will begin writing for some of Atlanta’s top production companies and the nation’s most notable television networks.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 163 reviews
February 28, 2024
Unconventional Love
Ezekiel, the brother of Elias is finally divorced from his loveless marriage. After years of honoring vows with a woman who didn't choose him, he just wanted a sexy one night stand. Jhorie is also fresh out of a relationship that no longer served her and together they have a fiery night of passion, not expecting to see each other again.
Life has them crossing paths unexpectedly. This was so interesting because these two had sexual chemistry, but there was no love at first sight. It was more like I'm open to a life with this person. However, their actions and the way they cared for each other let you know love was brewing. This story was a little slow, damn near mild. I'm used to big loud loves, but this one was quiet, intentional, and sweet. Down to the way they committed to each other. KC gave us a different way to look at love and I appreciated it.
This was like a cross between an arranged marriage and marriage of convenience but really it was just an agreement between two people who decided to choose each other.
Ezekiel, the brother of Elias is finally divorced from his loveless marriage. After years of honoring vows with a woman who didn't choose him, he just wanted a sexy one night stand. Jhorie is also fresh out of a relationship that no longer served her and together they have a fiery night of passion, not expecting to see each other again.
Life has them crossing paths unexpectedly. This was so interesting because these two had sexual chemistry, but there was no love at first sight. It was more like I'm open to a life with this person. However, their actions and the way they cared for each other let you know love was brewing. This story was a little slow, damn near mild. I'm used to big loud loves, but this one was quiet, intentional, and sweet. Down to the way they committed to each other. KC gave us a different way to look at love and I appreciated it.
This was like a cross between an arranged marriage and marriage of convenience but really it was just an agreement between two people who decided to choose each other.
April 23, 2024
I love a fated/destined to be InstaLove Romance 🥰
4 ⭐️! Ezekiel was just trying to celebrate his divorce with a one-night stand to finally move on from his failed marriage. He had no idea that a one-night stand with Jhorie would turn into an unforgettable night with his destiny. Jhorie was leaving a controlling relationship and wanted something different and more for her life. She knew she may have been messing up having one night with Eziekel but I can’t say I blame her lol! How these two meet again after that one-night stand is comical and I love a close proximity situation. These two go on to deal with a lot of issues with understanding what it takes to be in each other's lives. The back story with Ezekiel’s family and the situation with Cress’s brother Chris was resolved and opened the door for more! I’m excited for the next book because I believe it will be Christian’s story and I already have ideas on who his partner will be! I enjoyed this book!
4 ⭐️! Ezekiel was just trying to celebrate his divorce with a one-night stand to finally move on from his failed marriage. He had no idea that a one-night stand with Jhorie would turn into an unforgettable night with his destiny. Jhorie was leaving a controlling relationship and wanted something different and more for her life. She knew she may have been messing up having one night with Eziekel but I can’t say I blame her lol! How these two meet again after that one-night stand is comical and I love a close proximity situation. These two go on to deal with a lot of issues with understanding what it takes to be in each other's lives. The back story with Ezekiel’s family and the situation with Cress’s brother Chris was resolved and opened the door for more! I’m excited for the next book because I believe it will be Christian’s story and I already have ideas on who his partner will be! I enjoyed this book!
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March 23, 2024I tried y’all but this one wasn’t for me! DNF’d at Chapter 15
December 3, 2023
There’s something about the Omari family that tugs on my heartstrings that I can’t explain. When I saw that Ezekiel would have a story, I couldn’t wait to read it. The book is about two people with more in common than they realized. What should have been a one-night stand turned into a happily ever after. Ezekiel was out celebrating the finality of his divorce when Jhorie waltzed up to the bar. He was immediately drawn to her physically, and while she was hesitant, she couldn’t deny the fact that he was fine as heck! Things become sticky when the two are assigned to work together on a project.
What I loved the most about this book was that Ezekiel still believed in love, even after his divorce. His personality was dominant, and he had an intimidating presence, but underneath that was a good man, Savannah!😌Ezekiel knew Jhorie was it for him, and he constantly reminded her of that. The pressure he applied would have had me saying “yes” to everything as well. 😩
Overall, the storyline was intriguing, and the chemistry between them was refreshing. They both needed a healthy version of love and affection; KC did a good job displaying that on the pages. I also enjoyed the updates on Cress and Elias. They were protective of Ezekiel’s happiness and that was appreciated. Their mom was a piece of work and was grasping for straws to ruin the relationships. Smh! I’m glad their bond was strong. I truly enjoyed this book!
What I loved the most about this book was that Ezekiel still believed in love, even after his divorce. His personality was dominant, and he had an intimidating presence, but underneath that was a good man, Savannah!😌Ezekiel knew Jhorie was it for him, and he constantly reminded her of that. The pressure he applied would have had me saying “yes” to everything as well. 😩
Overall, the storyline was intriguing, and the chemistry between them was refreshing. They both needed a healthy version of love and affection; KC did a good job displaying that on the pages. I also enjoyed the updates on Cress and Elias. They were protective of Ezekiel’s happiness and that was appreciated. Their mom was a piece of work and was grasping for straws to ruin the relationships. Smh! I’m glad their bond was strong. I truly enjoyed this book!
December 3, 2023
Whew K.C. you hit the 🎯every time! I was so excited when I learned Ez was getting a story. After Shadows and Whispers showed how dedicated Ez was to lead and preserve his family unit, and how fiercely supportive he was of his brother, I knew I wanted to learn more about him. The Omari brothers had gone through hell with their trash ass parents, and Ez needed to find some peace and balance in his life.
When Ez met Jhorie, I could feel something deep was there, beyond the physical attraction, and the chemistry brewing. However, they both were dealing with things in life that didn't allow them to pursue more at the time. Well.... life is funny, isn't it?
Jhorie understood men like Ezekiel as she was scarred from her recent breakup. Men who thought money allowed them to rule everything, their women included. She would not let another wealthy man feed her ish and lies, and never follow through with their promises. She would soon learn how different Ezekiel was than most men. Even after the hell he had been through, he still believed in love and wanted a woman to "choose" him more than anything.
Ez and Jhorie working together was a blessing in disguise, as it gave them the opportunity to really learn the other person. What they found was that they were more similar that different and wanted the same things out of life. Jhorie was beautiful, smart, and challenged Ez in a way no one had ever done before, and he loved it! He knew that she was his one but had to get her onboard. Ez, was calculated, an imposing man, who commanded every room he entered, but was a good man who wanted to be loved completely. I adored them together. 💝
I enjoyed the updates of Elias and Cress, and how they are thriving in life. They both are very protective of Ez, only wanting the best for him. Now, Christian! What kind of family did you marry into, that would do you dirty like that? 👀 How does he proceed from here? Hope his story is next. Amazing read! 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾
When Ez met Jhorie, I could feel something deep was there, beyond the physical attraction, and the chemistry brewing. However, they both were dealing with things in life that didn't allow them to pursue more at the time. Well.... life is funny, isn't it?
Jhorie understood men like Ezekiel as she was scarred from her recent breakup. Men who thought money allowed them to rule everything, their women included. She would not let another wealthy man feed her ish and lies, and never follow through with their promises. She would soon learn how different Ezekiel was than most men. Even after the hell he had been through, he still believed in love and wanted a woman to "choose" him more than anything.
Ez and Jhorie working together was a blessing in disguise, as it gave them the opportunity to really learn the other person. What they found was that they were more similar that different and wanted the same things out of life. Jhorie was beautiful, smart, and challenged Ez in a way no one had ever done before, and he loved it! He knew that she was his one but had to get her onboard. Ez, was calculated, an imposing man, who commanded every room he entered, but was a good man who wanted to be loved completely. I adored them together. 💝
I enjoyed the updates of Elias and Cress, and how they are thriving in life. They both are very protective of Ez, only wanting the best for him. Now, Christian! What kind of family did you marry into, that would do you dirty like that? 👀 How does he proceed from here? Hope his story is next. Amazing read! 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾
May 27, 2025
After years of suffering in an unhappy marriage, Ezekiel is finally divorced and ready to move on with his life. Although theirs was an arranged marriage, he tried his best to make Sasha’s ungrateful azz happy and he tried to love her. But, it’s hard to fall in love with your wife when she’s already in love with someone else and doesn’t go out of her way to hide it. With his failed marriage behind him, Ezekiel heads to Black Diamonds to celebrate his newly single status.
Being a kept woman was not on Jhorie’s 2023 BINGO card but, here we are. When she finally realizes Dre is not goin’ to keep his promises about marriage and babies, she ends their relationship and moves back to Crescent Falls. First thing on her agenda is finding a job. When Jhorie lands the position of Project Liaison with the BWB Organization, she heads to Black Diamonds for a celebratory drink. When she takes a seat next to the gentleman at the bar, Jhorie has no idea how her life is about to change.
When Ezekiel and Jhorie meet, the attraction is instant and the chemistry is brewin’. What should’ve been just a one night stand turns into not only a working relationship but, something so much more neither of them was lookin’ for. And, they weren’t necessarily tryin’ to run from it either. What I really loved about this book is, Sasha’s infidelity didn’t make Ezekiel jaded about marriage. He was very much open to the idea of love and being married again and he wanted it with Jhorie. For once, my guy just wanted to be chosen and Jhorie had no problem choosin’ Ezekiel as her forever.
Being a kept woman was not on Jhorie’s 2023 BINGO card but, here we are. When she finally realizes Dre is not goin’ to keep his promises about marriage and babies, she ends their relationship and moves back to Crescent Falls. First thing on her agenda is finding a job. When Jhorie lands the position of Project Liaison with the BWB Organization, she heads to Black Diamonds for a celebratory drink. When she takes a seat next to the gentleman at the bar, Jhorie has no idea how her life is about to change.
When Ezekiel and Jhorie meet, the attraction is instant and the chemistry is brewin’. What should’ve been just a one night stand turns into not only a working relationship but, something so much more neither of them was lookin’ for. And, they weren’t necessarily tryin’ to run from it either. What I really loved about this book is, Sasha’s infidelity didn’t make Ezekiel jaded about marriage. He was very much open to the idea of love and being married again and he wanted it with Jhorie. For once, my guy just wanted to be chosen and Jhorie had no problem choosin’ Ezekiel as her forever.
December 3, 2023
3.5 ⭐️There was something different about this love story. Having finally gotten a divorce from his horrible wife, Ezekiel celebrates with a one-night affair with Jhorie. Similarly, Jhorie returned to town after a pointless relationship with a guy. What started as an innocent one-night stand turns into an intriguing relationship. Their love story starts when they have to work together on a project. I appreciated that Ez and Jhorie's love wasn't conventional. Business-minded, they both made their own rules and decided what love meant to them. The spark was there, but it wasn't your typical relationship. So I can if one thinks there is no chemistry. Their partnership works because they prioritize their needs and have the same desires.
In my opinion, there wasn't enough action in the plot. I see that The Collective had a problem with Christian in particular, but I was hoping for some more clarity; all we know is that they're the ones that control everything, but thus far everything has been vague and surface. I love the updates on Cress and Elias and their family. Near the end, some were attempting to put Jhorie and Ez's relationship to the test. That bitch of a mom sure knew how to test them. She really need to just die like I'm tired of her. I really liked how Ez looked out for his brother and their family. I'm ready for Christian story now.
In my opinion, there wasn't enough action in the plot. I see that The Collective had a problem with Christian in particular, but I was hoping for some more clarity; all we know is that they're the ones that control everything, but thus far everything has been vague and surface. I love the updates on Cress and Elias and their family. Near the end, some were attempting to put Jhorie and Ez's relationship to the test. That bitch of a mom sure knew how to test them. She really need to just die like I'm tired of her. I really liked how Ez looked out for his brother and their family. I'm ready for Christian story now.
January 11, 2024
3 1/2 "I believe in them." Stars!
I really wanted to love this book, but I actually only liked it okay. I think I never warmed up to Ezekiel. He was just such an arrogant ass. He had his highlights, no doubt. But I didn't like him. He was a person that threw his money and connections around too much. I liked him so much more in Shadows and Whispers. I found myself just looking forward to Elias being on page. I did like Jhorie though, and I understood her reasons for hesitating to go all in with Ez. Though she certainly didn't hold out too long... but really, that's a good thing. I'm glad the get together wasn't dragged out.
The more I'm thinking about it, overall, I did like this book because Ezekiel and Jhorie were really two sides of the same coin. I believe in their love. They'll be good for and to each other. They're going to be happy. Happy reading.
I really wanted to love this book, but I actually only liked it okay. I think I never warmed up to Ezekiel. He was just such an arrogant ass. He had his highlights, no doubt. But I didn't like him. He was a person that threw his money and connections around too much. I liked him so much more in Shadows and Whispers. I found myself just looking forward to Elias being on page. I did like Jhorie though, and I understood her reasons for hesitating to go all in with Ez. Though she certainly didn't hold out too long... but really, that's a good thing. I'm glad the get together wasn't dragged out.
The more I'm thinking about it, overall, I did like this book because Ezekiel and Jhorie were really two sides of the same coin. I believe in their love. They'll be good for and to each other. They're going to be happy. Happy reading.
March 2, 2024
I really like Jhorie and Ezekiel. It was refreshing to see the Alpha male in the story not afraid to move on after being hurt bad in his first marriage. That marriage being arranged made it easy in my opinion for his heart to mend. Jhorie held her own in his complicated world. Being an Omari is not for the weak! Wheww. When you slapping your soon to be mother in law before you even say “I do” speaks volumes. That lady needs to live in her own permanent hell. I dont think I hated a mother more in any book I read. To out right hate kids you carried should be illegal and punishable by law. 🤬
December 3, 2023
Tag me in
I need to be tagged in a few times in this story with the complexity of the storyline. Jhorie left her former life of leisure to get away from her old life. What good is a good life if its brimming with turmoil? When she moved back home and into a less than stellar neighborhood, who would have imagined a decision the previous week's would be a blessing in disguise. On another note: The Collective is shaping up to be an intresting organization. The ruthlessness and the power struggles, sound like a similar strategy used by another sinister group. Ezekiel and his brother chose to use the group to their advantage. And Jhori meeting Ezekiel came at the right time for them both. Their story was fully engulfing. No spoilers here. I'll say this, you need to read this one..
I need to be tagged in a few times in this story with the complexity of the storyline. Jhorie left her former life of leisure to get away from her old life. What good is a good life if its brimming with turmoil? When she moved back home and into a less than stellar neighborhood, who would have imagined a decision the previous week's would be a blessing in disguise. On another note: The Collective is shaping up to be an intresting organization. The ruthlessness and the power struggles, sound like a similar strategy used by another sinister group. Ezekiel and his brother chose to use the group to their advantage. And Jhori meeting Ezekiel came at the right time for them both. Their story was fully engulfing. No spoilers here. I'll say this, you need to read this one..
January 25, 2026
3.5🌟🎧 Ezekiel is finally divorced and Jhorie is beginning to reclaim her independence after being stuck in a lackluster relationship as a kept woman. When the two share a one night stand with no strings attached, fate has other plans and brings them back into each other’s space.
The chemistry between Ezekiel and Jhorie is undeniable, and adds plenty of heat to the story.
That said, while I liked the premise and overall storyline, it often felt like Ezekiel and Jhorie weren’t truly the main focus of their own book, which sometimes pulled attention away from their relationship. I found myself wanting more emotional depth and development centered on Ezekiel and Jhorie, as it felt like something was missing from their story. I would’ve loved a deeper dive into their connection to really make their journey stand out.
The chemistry between Ezekiel and Jhorie is undeniable, and adds plenty of heat to the story.
That said, while I liked the premise and overall storyline, it often felt like Ezekiel and Jhorie weren’t truly the main focus of their own book, which sometimes pulled attention away from their relationship. I found myself wanting more emotional depth and development centered on Ezekiel and Jhorie, as it felt like something was missing from their story. I would’ve loved a deeper dive into their connection to really make their journey stand out.
March 8, 2024
A love that was intentional made this story so refreshing. Everything with this couple was communicated and agreed upon together. I enjoyed this .
October 4, 2025
3.5 🌟 While I enjoyed both Ezekiel and Jhorie as characters, I fought hard not to DNF this one tbh. I guess Elias and Cress just set the bar high in the first book of this series, because it felt like this one dragged imo.
I can appreciate how the forbidden romance in this one was set up and I genuinely don't know what K.C. Mills could've done differently for me to enjoy this more, but it just didn't hit the same as “Shadows and Whispers” for me. The best part of this read for me was Elias, Cress and their little ones appearances throughout tbh. So I'm in no rush to pick up the next / third book in this series because I'm honestly just not invested / interested enough in Christian or Jona's storylines.
It was satisfying to see Elias and Ezekiel's sorry ass excuse for a mother get exactly what she deserved also! I wonder if she will resurface in any later books because I need to know she's suffering after all she put Elias and Ezekiel through tbh, but that's a personal necessity.
This wasn't a bad read by any means, it just didn't hit how I needed it to. 🤷🏾♀️
I can appreciate how the forbidden romance in this one was set up and I genuinely don't know what K.C. Mills could've done differently for me to enjoy this more, but it just didn't hit the same as “Shadows and Whispers” for me. The best part of this read for me was Elias, Cress and their little ones appearances throughout tbh. So I'm in no rush to pick up the next / third book in this series because I'm honestly just not invested / interested enough in Christian or Jona's storylines.
It was satisfying to see Elias and Ezekiel's sorry ass excuse for a mother get exactly what she deserved also! I wonder if she will resurface in any later books because I need to know she's suffering after all she put Elias and Ezekiel through tbh, but that's a personal necessity.
This wasn't a bad read by any means, it just didn't hit how I needed it to. 🤷🏾♀️
December 6, 2023
wanting to be chosen
Ezekiel had been through a hellish marriage and it was finally ending. It caused stress, anger, frustration, disappointment and challenged his self worth and esteem. He was ready to put that time of his life behind him and the best way to get over one person is to get under another.
In walks Jhorie. She is an unexpected and welcomed challenge for a man who thrives on control. She is a powerhouse in an enticing package. His attraction is instant, but he has to work for everything else.
Jhorie is getting over an ex, not looking for a commitment and is trying to start life over on her own. She’s compromised herself enough. Ezekiel is an intriguing prospect for the night and so is his persistence and his proposition.
Their one night left a lasting impression on the both of them. Who knew that the need to be chosen, seen, and heard would lead them down a path to forever.
Good read
Ezekiel had been through a hellish marriage and it was finally ending. It caused stress, anger, frustration, disappointment and challenged his self worth and esteem. He was ready to put that time of his life behind him and the best way to get over one person is to get under another.
In walks Jhorie. She is an unexpected and welcomed challenge for a man who thrives on control. She is a powerhouse in an enticing package. His attraction is instant, but he has to work for everything else.
Jhorie is getting over an ex, not looking for a commitment and is trying to start life over on her own. She’s compromised herself enough. Ezekiel is an intriguing prospect for the night and so is his persistence and his proposition.
Their one night left a lasting impression on the both of them. Who knew that the need to be chosen, seen, and heard would lead them down a path to forever.
Good read
December 1, 2023
Two halves of a whole💕
I thought Elias was my man, but Ezekiel may have knocked him from the top spot. Ez knew what he wanted and went for it confidently. Though powerful and dangerous, he handled roadblocks with calmness. He was definitely the yin to his brother’s yang. He was so much more for Jhorie, though. He provided love and happiness as long as she chose to have them with him. His pursuit of her was intentional even when he wasn’t sure if it was what he should’ve done. She was a firecracker as much as she was his anchor. I enjoyed her resilience and willingness to allow Ez to enter her orbit. Both of their exes were trash, and that’s all I have to say on them. Such a beautiful story.
I can’t wait to read Christian’s story. I can already tell Aja may be a problem. I hope that he gets a happy ending.
I thought Elias was my man, but Ezekiel may have knocked him from the top spot. Ez knew what he wanted and went for it confidently. Though powerful and dangerous, he handled roadblocks with calmness. He was definitely the yin to his brother’s yang. He was so much more for Jhorie, though. He provided love and happiness as long as she chose to have them with him. His pursuit of her was intentional even when he wasn’t sure if it was what he should’ve done. She was a firecracker as much as she was his anchor. I enjoyed her resilience and willingness to allow Ez to enter her orbit. Both of their exes were trash, and that’s all I have to say on them. Such a beautiful story.
I can’t wait to read Christian’s story. I can already tell Aja may be a problem. I hope that he gets a happy ending.
June 6, 2025
Ezekiel Omari is Pressure!!!
Just raising the standards for men irl cause whew this passage!
“I’ll never ask for you to be with me, to love me, to appreciate me and what I have to offer. Everything I do will be for you. I will be unabashedly devoted to making you happy. The choice will always have to be yours. But if you continue to choose me? I promise to give you everything I am, everything I will ever be, everything you can even imagine. There will never be a moment of your life where you will ever question where I stand with you, how I feel, or whether I choose you. But I’ll never ask, Jhorie. I can’t. The choice will always have to be yours.”
Jhorie & Ezekiel are so perfect together, they’re ambitious and driven. Ezekiel takes care of everyone and needs someone like Jhorie who can stand toe to toe with him!
This was a great read!
Just raising the standards for men irl cause whew this passage!
“I’ll never ask for you to be with me, to love me, to appreciate me and what I have to offer. Everything I do will be for you. I will be unabashedly devoted to making you happy. The choice will always have to be yours. But if you continue to choose me? I promise to give you everything I am, everything I will ever be, everything you can even imagine. There will never be a moment of your life where you will ever question where I stand with you, how I feel, or whether I choose you. But I’ll never ask, Jhorie. I can’t. The choice will always have to be yours.”
Jhorie & Ezekiel are so perfect together, they’re ambitious and driven. Ezekiel takes care of everyone and needs someone like Jhorie who can stand toe to toe with him!
This was a great read!
May 1, 2024
I was super excited to read Ezekiel's story after meeting him in Book One.
I was so happy to read that he finally left his cheating ex-wife in the dust. Ez deserved for someone to choose him and love him unconditionally. And Jhorie was it for him! This love story was not your typical meet and fall in love story and I still loved it. Two people deciding to choose each other and be intentional about their relationship together.
I loved the updates of Elias/Cress and even Jona in this story. Now, I can not wait to read Christian's story next! And hopefully Jona is in there too.
I was so happy to read that he finally left his cheating ex-wife in the dust. Ez deserved for someone to choose him and love him unconditionally. And Jhorie was it for him! This love story was not your typical meet and fall in love story and I still loved it. Two people deciding to choose each other and be intentional about their relationship together.
I loved the updates of Elias/Cress and even Jona in this story. Now, I can not wait to read Christian's story next! And hopefully Jona is in there too.
January 12, 2026
4.5 ⭐️ I really love Ezekiel & Jhorie 🥰🥰
July 5, 2025
✨Book Review✨
Let me just start by saying this: Ezekiel Omari deserved every drop of pleasure, peace, and partnership he got in this book. After being stuck in a miserable marriage with Sasha—a woman who never chose him the way he deserved— Ezekiel finally breaks free and is ready to celebrate. And when I say celebrate, I mean exactly what you think. 😏 After years of honoring vows that weren’t being returned, he needed release—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Enter: Jhori Abraham. Fresh out of a long-term relationship where she was constantly unfulfilled and low-key being emotionally starved. She said enough, packed her bags, left L.A., and came back home to Crescent Falls to start over. One night out, one fine stranger, one very tempting proposition… and whew—Jhori gets all the smoke she wasn’t expecting.
But the gag?? When she shows up to her new job, the sexy man from the bar turns out to be her new BOSS. Awkward? A little. Hot? Absolutely. We love a good forced proximity setup—especially when the chemistry is already off the charts.
Ezekiel and Jhori were exactly what the other needed. Both craving to be chosen, to be seen, to be loved out loud. Their connection was magnetic. They balanced each other so beautifully, and I don’t even think they fully realized just how alike they were. Watching them build something real—after the emotional damage they each came from—was so satisfying.
Now listen.
You already know I live for a heroine who don’t play about her man, and when I tell you Jhori went toe-to-toe with Ezekiel’s mama?? Baby, I was on my feet clapping. That evil woman had been running unchecked for far too long, and Jhori said, “Not today. Not on my watch.” We love a soft woman with a spine. 💅🏾
This story gave me grown, sexy, and emotionally fulfilling love. Ezekiel finally got to experience what it’s like to be loved the way he deserves, and Jhori found someone who matched her energy and fed her soul. They chose each other—and now they have everything they’ve dreamed of.
5 stars. No notes.
K.C. Mills, you’ve done it again! Crescent Falls stays in its bag, and I’m ready for the next story already.
Book: Dawning and Resurgence
Author: K.C. Mills
Genre: Romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🥵🥵🥵
Let me just start by saying this: Ezekiel Omari deserved every drop of pleasure, peace, and partnership he got in this book. After being stuck in a miserable marriage with Sasha—a woman who never chose him the way he deserved— Ezekiel finally breaks free and is ready to celebrate. And when I say celebrate, I mean exactly what you think. 😏 After years of honoring vows that weren’t being returned, he needed release—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Enter: Jhori Abraham. Fresh out of a long-term relationship where she was constantly unfulfilled and low-key being emotionally starved. She said enough, packed her bags, left L.A., and came back home to Crescent Falls to start over. One night out, one fine stranger, one very tempting proposition… and whew—Jhori gets all the smoke she wasn’t expecting.
But the gag?? When she shows up to her new job, the sexy man from the bar turns out to be her new BOSS. Awkward? A little. Hot? Absolutely. We love a good forced proximity setup—especially when the chemistry is already off the charts.
Ezekiel and Jhori were exactly what the other needed. Both craving to be chosen, to be seen, to be loved out loud. Their connection was magnetic. They balanced each other so beautifully, and I don’t even think they fully realized just how alike they were. Watching them build something real—after the emotional damage they each came from—was so satisfying.
Now listen.
You already know I live for a heroine who don’t play about her man, and when I tell you Jhori went toe-to-toe with Ezekiel’s mama?? Baby, I was on my feet clapping. That evil woman had been running unchecked for far too long, and Jhori said, “Not today. Not on my watch.” We love a soft woman with a spine. 💅🏾
This story gave me grown, sexy, and emotionally fulfilling love. Ezekiel finally got to experience what it’s like to be loved the way he deserves, and Jhori found someone who matched her energy and fed her soul. They chose each other—and now they have everything they’ve dreamed of.
5 stars. No notes.
K.C. Mills, you’ve done it again! Crescent Falls stays in its bag, and I’m ready for the next story already.
Book: Dawning and Resurgence
Author: K.C. Mills
Genre: Romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🥵🥵🥵
December 4, 2023
3.5⭐️
Ezekiel is fresh out of an unhappy marriage and is eager to let loose and enjoy some coochie. He has his eye on Jhorie, a woman he feels a strong sexual attraction to. They both agree to a one-night stand, but fate has other plans in store for them. One thing about K C Mills, she gonna write a compassionate, gangsta, cinnamon roll who’s a rough around the edges, but he’s gonna love, protect and dick you down something serious. Ezekiel fits this description perfectly, but Jhori puts up walls due to her past experiences with powerful and wealthy men. I love Ez & Johri together because they both realize that it takes so much more to cultivate a successful relationship. So together they decide it’s in their best interest to choose to build with each other. This is an unproblematic character driven love story with Jhori sometimes doing the most when not needed! There is a subplot concerning the collective that in my opinion falls flat. There is an intense buildup involving Christian but we never got a resolution or understanding of what happened. Overall, I enjoyed Ezekiel and Jhoris decision to love each other. The sibling love between Elias and Ezekiel did make me want to go back and read the first book. I love them. If you’re looking for an unconventional love story between two like minded people, read this.
Ezekiel is fresh out of an unhappy marriage and is eager to let loose and enjoy some coochie. He has his eye on Jhorie, a woman he feels a strong sexual attraction to. They both agree to a one-night stand, but fate has other plans in store for them. One thing about K C Mills, she gonna write a compassionate, gangsta, cinnamon roll who’s a rough around the edges, but he’s gonna love, protect and dick you down something serious. Ezekiel fits this description perfectly, but Jhori puts up walls due to her past experiences with powerful and wealthy men. I love Ez & Johri together because they both realize that it takes so much more to cultivate a successful relationship. So together they decide it’s in their best interest to choose to build with each other. This is an unproblematic character driven love story with Jhori sometimes doing the most when not needed! There is a subplot concerning the collective that in my opinion falls flat. There is an intense buildup involving Christian but we never got a resolution or understanding of what happened. Overall, I enjoyed Ezekiel and Jhoris decision to love each other. The sibling love between Elias and Ezekiel did make me want to go back and read the first book. I love them. If you’re looking for an unconventional love story between two like minded people, read this.
January 14, 2024
4.5/5⭐️4/5🥵
- I just knew I was gonna love Ez book because you could just tell he had so much to give. Him and his brother were both so vulnerable and I love to see it.
- Jhorie decides to move back home after she ends her long term relationship. Shes home and is back on her grind! She wastes no time getting into her career and continuing to water things that are important to her. Jho is extremely smart with a lot to say. However when Ezekiel comes with that BDE she gets all quiet lol. Ez is very forward from his first interaction with Jho. He is the middle child and literally the glue of the family for years and he all but kill's himself helping everyone else. He is newly divorced and is looking to re-enter the bachelor life lol but not really because he wants love.
- These two both deserved each other. But more than that they both chose each other. They had me a little confused on why they couldn't just date like normal people but when you know you know ig. I really liked this book too. These men and their vulnerability😫 chile I want one. I cant wait for Christians story though because his situation is crazy.
- Definitely recommend. Read the first story for the full experience.
- I just knew I was gonna love Ez book because you could just tell he had so much to give. Him and his brother were both so vulnerable and I love to see it.
- Jhorie decides to move back home after she ends her long term relationship. Shes home and is back on her grind! She wastes no time getting into her career and continuing to water things that are important to her. Jho is extremely smart with a lot to say. However when Ezekiel comes with that BDE she gets all quiet lol. Ez is very forward from his first interaction with Jho. He is the middle child and literally the glue of the family for years and he all but kill's himself helping everyone else. He is newly divorced and is looking to re-enter the bachelor life lol but not really because he wants love.
- These two both deserved each other. But more than that they both chose each other. They had me a little confused on why they couldn't just date like normal people but when you know you know ig. I really liked this book too. These men and their vulnerability😫 chile I want one. I cant wait for Christians story though because his situation is crazy.
- Definitely recommend. Read the first story for the full experience.
January 17, 2025
Jhorie smacking Dre both times were uncalled for. I hate women that strike men just because they are upset.
This agreement with Ez and Jhorie seem to come out of no where so it doesn’t make sense to me. Much like Cress out the blue telling Jhorie that Elias is bi polar.
I started to lose interest in the couple and the book but it picked back up with about 70 pages left due to Omari’s atrocious mother’s performance, once again proving she’s a trash parent and human.
This, as well as book one, had quite a bit of typos throughout. Ez says he’s older (which I know he isn’t) and then goes on to say Elias is 37 and he’s 35 making him younger. 🤨🤔
(She sipped slowly and fired her first question. “Who’s the oldest between you and Elias?”
“Me.”
She frowned a bit. “I hate to admit this but I’m marrying a man and I don’t even know his age.”
“Thirty-five. Elias is thirty-seven and Lucas would have been thirty-three.” )
I’m not sure if I missed something in book one or two but I don’t know who Amel is or at least how we got to this name. I thought the kid was named EJ.
This story was ok. At the end of the day Ez and Jhorie grew on me and I came to enjoy them.
This agreement with Ez and Jhorie seem to come out of no where so it doesn’t make sense to me. Much like Cress out the blue telling Jhorie that Elias is bi polar.
I started to lose interest in the couple and the book but it picked back up with about 70 pages left due to Omari’s atrocious mother’s performance, once again proving she’s a trash parent and human.
This, as well as book one, had quite a bit of typos throughout. Ez says he’s older (which I know he isn’t) and then goes on to say Elias is 37 and he’s 35 making him younger. 🤨🤔
(She sipped slowly and fired her first question. “Who’s the oldest between you and Elias?”
“Me.”
She frowned a bit. “I hate to admit this but I’m marrying a man and I don’t even know his age.”
“Thirty-five. Elias is thirty-seven and Lucas would have been thirty-three.” )
I’m not sure if I missed something in book one or two but I don’t know who Amel is or at least how we got to this name. I thought the kid was named EJ.
This story was ok. At the end of the day Ez and Jhorie grew on me and I came to enjoy them.
May 21, 2025
Compared to SHADOWS AND WHISPERS, DAWNING & RESURGENCE helped me catch my breath after all the madness in book #1.
For a minute, I was worried that Ezekiel and Jhorie would allow their horrible, past relationships to stop them from moving forward and finding true love. So glad that Jhorie told Sasha where to go and how to get there. You know GO TO HELL!!!!!!!!!!! In addition, Ezekiel had no problem checking Jhorie's trifling ex as well. And that scene with Ezekiel's mother was mind blowing!!!
Ezekiel and Jhorie deserve to be happy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
December 7, 2023
I choose you!!!
I absolutely adored this book. Ezekiel is all bae and I loved Jhorie's unwavering love for her self and her unwillingness to settle. The most profound message from this book is the power of choice. In love we want to be chosen not just tolerated. This unconventional love story worked for me and this series has me in a chokehold. Madam author you got me now!!! This was another bona-fide reading experience!
I absolutely adored this book. Ezekiel is all bae and I loved Jhorie's unwavering love for her self and her unwillingness to settle. The most profound message from this book is the power of choice. In love we want to be chosen not just tolerated. This unconventional love story worked for me and this series has me in a chokehold. Madam author you got me now!!! This was another bona-fide reading experience!
December 31, 2023
love this book
This book series is my favorite work from KC Mills so far. I loved this book and Ez having his happy ending. The brother’s mother got what she deserved at the end and I loved every minute of her downfall.
This book series is my favorite work from KC Mills so far. I loved this book and Ez having his happy ending. The brother’s mother got what she deserved at the end and I loved every minute of her downfall.
February 29, 2024
Meh.
This was boring and repetitive. I think Ezekiel and Jhori made a great couple, I also think their story should have been way more dynamic. The first book was MUCH better than this.
This was boring and repetitive. I think Ezekiel and Jhori made a great couple, I also think their story should have been way more dynamic. The first book was MUCH better than this.
December 6, 2023
It took a minute for me to warm up to this read but by the time we got to the finally 25% I was all in.
March 3, 2024
Eze was methodical, attentive, protective, loving and generous. He was also scarily ruthless.
I like the way these two agreed to date with marriage as the end goal.
I like the way these two agreed to date with marriage as the end goal.
February 4, 2026
4.25⭐️-Ezekiel 🤩🤩🤩🤩
January 14, 2025
Rating: 2.5
My intent was to finish this book in 2024...but alas, life! -- So first book finished in 2025 and unfortunately its not a very strong start. I read Shadows and Whispers in 2023 and a friend was the determing factor in me making Dawning and Resurgence my last book of 2024.
[WARNING: SPOILER-Y REVIEW]
My biggest issue with D&R is I felt like the entire goal and intention that Ezekiel had with wanting his next partner and wife to "choose" him, and not getting into another romantic situation borne out of convenience or "duty" to the collective, was completely discordant with the way he went about pursuing and courting Jhorie. Its like...he would go one in on about how he refused to settle for being settled for in his next relationship, that his next partner must WANT and CHOOSE him for him with no ulterior motives or conditions. But then he kinda bulldozed and manipulated his situation with Jhorie into happening. First with telling her they couldn't just "date" that they had to be in an this weird agreement. A commitment an promise that he and Jhorie would date with an intended purpose; that purpose being marraige. And then very shortly after, he kind of pushed for her to agree to marry him.
It was just confusing because he was SO adamant about being "chosen" but then was doing everything in his power to manipulate and guide Jhories hand. Its not to say that she wouldn't have gotten there on her own with wanting to commit to him and ultimately marrying him, but I thought the point of someone CHOOSING was to LET them do the choosing. And all of the agreeing and committing with intended purpose made it so that I didn't really feel that much chemistry and fire between them. It all started feeling very arranged and calculated. Not sexy at ALL.
I actually enjoyed all of Ezekiel and Jhories interactions with everyone ELSE in the book more than between the two of them. I found myself being pulled in and intrigued more whenever Jhorie or Ezekiel had a scene with Elias or Cress, or with some of the opeople they worked with like Samiya. But the focus was just on them and all their arrangements and commitments, I found myself having to force myself to get through the chapters.
I also think D&R could have done without the whole Running away from LA and Drethon storyline. Jhorie's relationship with her ex and the fact that it didn't end on good terms or that Dre wasn't ALIGNED with it ended was made very clear early on. But we never get any REAL payoff from that. Dre doesn't add any real conflict, danger, or stakes to the story. He's more like a little knat buzzing aorund in the background that Ezekiel very easily and almost boringly handles at the very end of the book almost as an afterthought.
Come to think of it, unlike Shadows and Whispers, there was really NO real danger or conflict in this book which meant there was no real climax; making it a bit dull and meh overall.
In terms of afterhoughts the same goes for the friend Malin. We're introduced to her and she and Jhorie have a few interactions here and there, but it would have been nice to make her a part of Jhories community. Someone who she could call on to talk through the whirlwhind that she was going through with Ezekiel. But instead she was just there and then she wasnt.
Incomplete...I think thats a good summary for how this book feels to me. There were so many things that just didn't feel complete and it honestly felt like a different world than the first book. It wasn't BAD, It's just not something I think I will remember beyond me writing this review.
Likeable Characters: 4
Chemistry: 2
Storyline/Plot (outside of just romance): 2
Writing/Voice: 4
Overall Enjoyment: 2
My intent was to finish this book in 2024...but alas, life! -- So first book finished in 2025 and unfortunately its not a very strong start. I read Shadows and Whispers in 2023 and a friend was the determing factor in me making Dawning and Resurgence my last book of 2024.
[WARNING: SPOILER-Y REVIEW]
My biggest issue with D&R is I felt like the entire goal and intention that Ezekiel had with wanting his next partner and wife to "choose" him, and not getting into another romantic situation borne out of convenience or "duty" to the collective, was completely discordant with the way he went about pursuing and courting Jhorie. Its like...he would go one in on about how he refused to settle for being settled for in his next relationship, that his next partner must WANT and CHOOSE him for him with no ulterior motives or conditions. But then he kinda bulldozed and manipulated his situation with Jhorie into happening. First with telling her they couldn't just "date" that they had to be in an this weird agreement. A commitment an promise that he and Jhorie would date with an intended purpose; that purpose being marraige. And then very shortly after, he kind of pushed for her to agree to marry him.
It was just confusing because he was SO adamant about being "chosen" but then was doing everything in his power to manipulate and guide Jhories hand. Its not to say that she wouldn't have gotten there on her own with wanting to commit to him and ultimately marrying him, but I thought the point of someone CHOOSING was to LET them do the choosing. And all of the agreeing and committing with intended purpose made it so that I didn't really feel that much chemistry and fire between them. It all started feeling very arranged and calculated. Not sexy at ALL.
I actually enjoyed all of Ezekiel and Jhories interactions with everyone ELSE in the book more than between the two of them. I found myself being pulled in and intrigued more whenever Jhorie or Ezekiel had a scene with Elias or Cress, or with some of the opeople they worked with like Samiya. But the focus was just on them and all their arrangements and commitments, I found myself having to force myself to get through the chapters.
I also think D&R could have done without the whole Running away from LA and Drethon storyline. Jhorie's relationship with her ex and the fact that it didn't end on good terms or that Dre wasn't ALIGNED with it ended was made very clear early on. But we never get any REAL payoff from that. Dre doesn't add any real conflict, danger, or stakes to the story. He's more like a little knat buzzing aorund in the background that Ezekiel very easily and almost boringly handles at the very end of the book almost as an afterthought.
Come to think of it, unlike Shadows and Whispers, there was really NO real danger or conflict in this book which meant there was no real climax; making it a bit dull and meh overall.
In terms of afterhoughts the same goes for the friend Malin. We're introduced to her and she and Jhorie have a few interactions here and there, but it would have been nice to make her a part of Jhories community. Someone who she could call on to talk through the whirlwhind that she was going through with Ezekiel. But instead she was just there and then she wasnt.
Incomplete...I think thats a good summary for how this book feels to me. There were so many things that just didn't feel complete and it honestly felt like a different world than the first book. It wasn't BAD, It's just not something I think I will remember beyond me writing this review.
Likeable Characters: 4
Chemistry: 2
Storyline/Plot (outside of just romance): 2
Writing/Voice: 4
Overall Enjoyment: 2
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