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A Girl Like Me

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Ne’a comes from a tough childhood and just wants to be loved properly. She’s selfless, nurturing, and dealing with a codependency at home. The issues she has are like stain in her life that she wants to wipe away permanently.

Zane is newly separated from his wife and returns home to BFR for a job and restart his life. He’s known to have a savor’s complex and running into Ne’a makes it hard to ignore. While falling in love wasn't in his plans something about Ne'a keeps pulling him to her, but his ex wife refuses to let so easily.

It's hard to fall for someone who is damaged. It's hard to rebuild when you've been burned. These two learn that as they grow closer together while facing the challenges thrown their way.

364 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 10, 2023

175 people are currently reading
152 people want to read

About the author

Tay Mo'Nae

98 books932 followers
Tay Mo'Nae is a 27-year-old Urban Romance author who pens about Black Love. She create stories to help her readers escape reality and create a movie in their head. She loves writing about characters that at least one reader can relate too.

With 50 books under her belt, Tay Mo'Nae hopes to gain at least one new reader with every release and have them connect to her characters and story in some way. If she would have to explain her writing she would say she loves "penning complicated characters that find a path to love".

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
Profile Image for 'The Book Queen'.
6,014 reviews111 followers
December 12, 2023
Yes, A girl like you!

Ne'a almost drove me batty with her esteem issues. I get it, I understood her abandonment issues, but dang girl! Her daddy wasn't ish, and he should be ashamed for his behavior towards Ne'a. When Zane came along with his, " I'm not looking for anything serious, foolishness. " I said, yeah, let's see how that works for you, buddy. So, yes, I understood her issues, kinda. Zane was from the area, but he'd moved away with his wife Zoe. Zane was back after filing for divorce from Zoe. And you all, that's another story. I'll only focus on Zane and Ne'a. I liked them as a couple. I liked his brother Jude and his girl Kaia, they added a lot of fun and drama to the story. Kaia and Ne'a were besties, so it was a no-brainer for the couples to pair off. Some of the drama with Ne'a's alcoholic mother taxed my nerves. I wish her mom could have pulled it together. No man is worth that much pain.
Zane's true nature and non-cheating made that side of the story palatable. The thirsty chicks are always lurking along with hang on exs in these stories, but anyway, overlook the leeches and enjoy the story.
Profile Image for ReadnliftwithShar.
1,861 reviews
December 12, 2023
4.5 ✨ A Girl Like Me is another heart-tugging masterpiece from Tay Monae. This book was very realistic, but it had a clear message and a triumphant ending that made it worth the read. Zane is “confident, strong, caring, and a protector.” He was a traveling nurse who was going through a divorce. Ne’a was the caregiver for her mother while working as a dietary aide at the hospital. She was an amateur baker and aspiring author. She also had a caring and nurturing personality. Both characters were lovable, and it was easy to root for them to win.

Zane was back in his hometown for a work assignment, and his sister-in-law decided that she was going to play matchmaker. Kaia was on to something; she knew Zane and Ne’a were compatible, and it was a matter of time before they realized it. Their first encounter wasn’t the best impression, but there was a connection between them. Furthermore, Zane was reluctant to entertain a relationship, and Ne’a felt unlovable after battling many heartaches.

What I loved the most about this story was the characters’ backgrounds and the resilience they showed throughout. Both characters dealt with issues that could have made them weak, but they continued to show up for themselves. I found it interesting that Zane was against relationships but quickly realized he needed to protect her despite his brother advising him of her baggage. Every time he poured life into her, I was reminded that he was a real man! He provided the security, love, and support that she needed, and it showed because Ne’a’s confidence continued to grow. I loved witnessing their love happen naturally. Their cute reading sessions were perfect. When Zane was in the hospital, I was fighting the tears as Ne’a continued reading to him! Like, Tay Monae, please!!😭

While this was a romance story, there are many realistic scenarios. I could tell addiction, health issues, and end-of-life topics were researched for the story. I also thought highlighting the relationship between Ne’a and her estranged father and siblings was important because it provided context for how she responded to her mother and men. Zane was so perfect that his ex-wife would not let go of him! If delusional needed a poster child, Zoe was right there. She deserved every bad thing that happened to her because her audacity was beyond belief. 🥴 I think Tay Monae’s sole mission is to make me cry while reading, and I willingly surrender to my tears every time. I was not expecting to fall in love with these characters, but darn, they had me hooked from the very beginning! Another great story!

Arc copy, please note I was gifted an unedited version. All thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for WellReadRuby.
539 reviews113 followers
December 31, 2023
A Girl Like Me - Tay Monae

Release Date: This December!

My girl likes to sabotage!! *Lloyd voice* Ne’a is the definition of bad decision-making and blaming herself for everything! Her insecurities showed loud on these pages and it took a knight in shining armor like Zane to help Ne’a see the light! Zane also came with some trauma and a slight hero complex. Zane and Ne’a meet in a very “boy meets girl” way and could be thought of as destined. Each of coming with a bag full of unresolved issues and while Ne’a’s was a lot more on the surface, Zane’s issues kept snow balling and tbh I was a bit surprised by the ending cause that was so unserious to be that delulu. I won't fully explain but will share that this book takes you on journey to self love, dealing with grief, and letting go of past traumas. Tay did a great job making it very realistic to the point I was cursing Ne’a out in my head over insecurities I've seen myself deal with in the past. It was relatable how we will put ourselves in situations to fill a void not realizing that void would only get deeper with the mess we filled it with. I'm so glad this couple got their HEA but the journey to it almost pissed me off! Intimate scenes were great per usual and I enjoyed the secondary characters! I also enjoyed follow up from other characters Tay’s catalog! There were a few grammatical errors, but nothing that took me out of the story. Tay continues to write deeper meaningful stories and I think this added to that list!

I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Carmen Savage.
101 reviews14 followers
August 6, 2024
A Gril Like Me by Tay Mo'Nae
Genre: Romance
Troupe: New Found Family, Cheating, Friend's brother.
Pages: 364 pages
Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Spice: 🌶 🌶 🌶
TW: Cheating, Death, Addiction
Series?: stand alone
ARC?: No


This book had me in a chokhold from the first chapter. The banter gives such a cozy nostalgic feel. Talk about book boyfriends. Zane is the most masculine yet gentle giant a women could hope for. The perfect mix of a protector and best friend.

Zane newly seperated from his wife due to her cheating on him causes her to become unhinged and not willing to accept no. She begins to go to great lengths to get him to take her back.

Zane just wants to take some time to heal before getting into anything serious when he unexpectedly becomes drawn to Ne'a, his brother's girlfirend (Kia) friend. Tge more time he spends with her the more he realizes they are the Ying to each others Yang.

Ne'a has been dealt such an unfortunate hand as she has had to care for her alcoholic mother since she was young due the trauma from her dad. She has developed a habit of putting people before her and caring for them with out realizing her worth. She has inherited many insecurities due to these traumas.

All of her relationships have either cheated on her or she found out she was the side chick. She has never experience someone putting her first. This habit of her thinking every man will leave her causes her to accept things she should not and leads her to believe she is meant to be alone. Even though she can't be alone for long. She is still seeking attention from the lack of presence from her dad.

When I tell you I cried several times while reading because I just wanted to wrap my arms around Ne'a, I balled. Her father not wanting anything to do with her, her ungrateful and mean half sisters, and just her feeling unloveable wrecked me to my core. The Rollercoaster of emotions I went through was soooo unexpected. I went into this blind and man oh man am I happy I did.

The character development was chefs kiss. Watching them all evolve brought this love story full circle for me. I would recommend this book to anyone that is looking for a cozy, heart wrenching, love story that has many twists and turns yet almost any women can relate to.
Profile Image for DOMINIQUE Davis.
499 reviews30 followers
December 13, 2023
Ne’a and Zane

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Ne’a Lewis has gone through a lot in her life. From dealing with her mother’s alcoholism to her father’s abandonment to using her body as a way of showing her affection towards someone. Ne’a is seeking love but she encounters many “frogs” before she meets her “prince”. Newly single Zane Edwards has returned back to Butter Ridge Falls. Waiting yo finalize his divorce to Zoe, Zane isn’t currently looking for anything serious. His brother and his sister in law are trying to hook him up but things don’t go well when Ne’a and Zane first meet.

The attraction is there but when Zane lets Ne’a know he can’t be exactly what she wants the countdown started for me because I knew that wouldn’t last long. Zane naturally protective nature was everything that Ne’a needed. She struggled with knowing her self worth and being used but Zane was the type to adjust her crown whenever he saw it slip.

I couldn’t stand Ne’a’s father. He was a real piece of work. Her mother lost herself in that man and I hated that Ne’a kept putting herself out there for him to constantly treat her like crap. Zoe was completely insane and definitely delusional. Especially since she was the one who messed up. I loved Kaia and Jude they were hilarious at times and I loved how they loved on each other. Overall I loved the connection between Ne’a and Zane just wished I got more of there love on page without other people and issues arising.
Profile Image for DeWanna.
300 reviews9 followers
January 16, 2024
Awesome read by Tay Monae! Loved the length of the book and character development. Ne'a just needed someone other than Kaia to see and affirm her. Zane came home for a fresh start and got more than he expected. He provided an atmosphere safe enough for her to be sweet. Jude and Kaia were had that made to love you connection. 😍 Ne'a sperm donor was gutter trash. Her mom stayed down way too long and relied on devotion as a crutch. Only thing missing was a bomb playlist.
Profile Image for Angela M. Artis.
154 reviews15 followers
June 15, 2024
Ne-a and Zane were meant/made for one
another. Ne-a grew up broken due to a lack of a father figure and an alcoholic mother. Zane was broken due to a cheating wife, loss of a child, and divorce. This listen kept me interested, from beginning to end.

I'd recommend it to any and everyone !!
51 reviews
December 4, 2024
DNF

This is the first book from this author that I did not finish. Ne’a got on my last nerve. She was just stupid. I would rather this book been about Kaia and Jude.
Profile Image for Krystal S.
41 reviews
December 20, 2024
FMC ughh!

Why was this a cute read? I feel the female main character lacked substance. She whined and cried, and she had minimal self-confidence. Self-esteem and self-confidence are two different things, and I feel as though they are not distinguished throughout this reading. I wish she would have had some revenge on her dad or some resolution to all that he put her through, but money. I feel as though the story was lacking something. I just needed more from the female main character.
Profile Image for Shahtia Gay-hairston.
3,447 reviews26 followers
January 10, 2024
whew

This was a tough read. I like Ne’a but she was for lack of a better term pathetic. They way this written, the pen game being so strong you felt pathetic because you could literally feel her emotions and feel worthless and small and like you had no back bone. She was sweet but a doormat in every area of her life. Zane was a welcome breath of fresh air compared to the people in her life that did not value her whatsoever!
Profile Image for Salene Whyte (thee_book_connoisseur_).
419 reviews4 followers
January 4, 2024
A Healing Journey of Love

"Girl Like Me" by Tay Mo’Nae takes readers on a poignant journey through the lives of Ne'a and Zane, two individuals grappling with their own scars and seeking solace in each other's company.

Ne'a, with a challenging childhood and a longing for genuine love, emerges as a selfless and nurturing character. Her desire to wipe away the stains of her past sets the stage for a narrative rich in emotional depth. Meanwhile, Zane, newly separated and dealing with a savior's complex, returns to BFR for a fresh start. The serendipitous encounter with Ne'a disrupts his plans, and despite his initial resistance, he finds himself drawn to her.

The characters' complexities and struggles are palpable, creating a nuanced portrayal of the challenges they face. Mo’Nae skillfully navigates the themes of codependency, healing, and the difficulty of rebuilding trust after being burned. The narrative unfolds as a delicate dance between two souls attempting to find love in the midst of their damaged lives.

The title captures the essence of the story, emphasizing the unique qualities that make Ne'a stand out. The exploration of falling for someone damaged and the challenges of rebuilding resonates throughout the narrative. Ne'a and Zane's journey becomes a testament to the strength of love in overcoming adversity.

Mo’Nae's storytelling prowess shines through as she crafts a narrative that is both heartwarming and heart-wrenching. The complexities of the characters' emotions are masterfully depicted, allowing readers to connect with Ne'a and Zane on a profound level. The ex-wife's refusal to let go introduces a layer of external conflict, testing the resilience of the budding relationship.

In conclusion, "Girl Like Me" is a beautifully written tale of love's healing power, encapsulating the struggles of two individuals navigating the intricacies of damaged pasts. Mo’Nae's narrative unfolds with grace, offering readers a compelling exploration of vulnerability, resilience, and the transformative nature of love.
Profile Image for D Marie.
105 reviews2 followers
December 15, 2023
Love! Love! Love!

Whew, this book was top tier! Tay Mo'Nae did her thing with this one. You are on an emotional rollercoaster right alongside Zane and Ne'a as they learn to heal and love again. My heart hurt for how broken Ne'a was, and I was pissed at all the people in her life who contributed to it. I saw pieces of myself in her, and it brought tears to my eyes seeing her struggle. This girl deserved her slice of heaven even if she didn't believe she was worthy of it.

Zane is officially my new book Bae, lord all the BDE he has in this book is the stuff of every black girl's dreams, lol! I have so much love for books that are able to balance our culture, our experiences, our language, and our mannerisms in such a way that I see myself, my sister, my brother, my friends, in the characters.

I was so happy to see Ne'a get into therapy. For a minute I was worried all her healing would come from her relationship with Zane. While he was definitely a huge part of it, baby girl needed to work through some serious issues and needed that extra layer of support. Mental health in the black community is so important to normalize. Love seeing it here in this book.

This is one of those books I know, I'll think about often. It will definitely be a re-read and one I recommend to my girlfriends. I can't wait to check out more from Tay Mo'Nae!
Profile Image for K_Clear22.
193 reviews3 followers
January 4, 2024
OH MY GOSH. Wow! This was not what I was expecting. I can definitely see the development Tay Mo’Nae writing in this book. This by far is one of the best she has written. Ne’a was a beautiful soul that continued to be crushed. She didn’t know what it was like to be loved properly nor how to love herself due to the selfish ways of others. Her mother was f a mom and her dad was no good. Ugh it irked me every time I heard her dad or his family speak. But Ne’a met Zane and their world continued to collide. They both had some trying times in their lives, but it seemed like fate and love brought them together. I could feel the genuine love and concern that Zane had for Ne’a off of the pages. He was so sincere . He was exactly what she needed. His ex-wife was delusional. There were so many components of this book that was definitely relatable to real life. The feeling of inadequacy , abandonment, and mistrust was there. Kaia and Jude were perfect for each other. Everyone needs a Kaia as a friend and a Jude as a brother. This was definitely one for the books.
Profile Image for cayla ✿.
35 reviews4 followers
January 17, 2024
OMG, I cried so much reading this book.

N’ea is the daughter of an alcoholic mother with her deadbeat dad outside the picture. She became a ‘caregiver’ for her mom at a very young age since her dad left them for his other family. [they pmo so much]

A Girl Like Me was extremely well written and I enjoyed reading it. It touched on alcoholism, depression, and guilt.

Overall Review: ★★★★☆

♥︎ Plot: 5/5. (it’s so good. This should be made into a movie.)

♥︎ Characters: 4/5. (I became a little annoyed with N’ea’s character halfway through the book. She blamed herself for all the wrong in her life but didn't make any necessary changes. However, her character development amazed me. I love Zane. He was so patient with N’ea despite the way she closed herself off from him when things in her life got rocky. Kaia and Jude were hilarious, too!)

♥︎ Writing Style: 5/5. (Easy to read.)

Nea’s story may be relatable to many people.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
1,096 reviews1 follower
May 31, 2024
I feel like it took me forever to listen to this book. I kept stopping and starting because I needed a break. My girl N'ea was exhausting af. Homegirl had no confidence, doubted herself all the time and required constant reassuring. Zane had the patience of Job. He was so good for her bc he breathed life into her whenever she needed it. That was lovely. BUT she still drained the shit out of me. Don't get me wrong, I completely understand her damage and how it affected her thinking. I get why she was that way but it was still tiring hearing all the negative talk, self doubt and second guessing. Everyone in her life treated her like she wasn't worth anything and she internalized those actions. Despite her wearing me out, I still thought the book was awesome. I'm happy the author didn't decide to toss in a 3rd quarter breakup and instead let this could have their HFN. N'ea ended up in a much better place and was happy for once, and Zane found true love. 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
Profile Image for Karen.
999 reviews1 follower
January 22, 2024
Good read. This book will take you on an emotional roller coaster. Ne’a was a young lady who did not feel love, but she was selfless, had a big heart, and always doing for others. Ne’a father left her and her mom when she was a teenager. Her dad should have been the first man to love her. Ne’a did not get that love from her dad. Ne’a’s mom was an alcoholic and Ne’a took care of her mom since she was a teenager.
Zane is a travel nurse and the brother of Ne’a’s best friend. Zane is in the process of divorcing his wife. Zane is a man that has a big heart and enjoys helping and saving people when they are down. Zane and Ne’a runs into one another, but Zane is not trying to get into a relationship right now. Ne’a was a strong young lady at times, but she had issues. I’m happy to see that she sought out a therapist to assist her to cope with things in her life.
Profile Image for Jacquie.
607 reviews12 followers
May 26, 2025
This book had me torn a little bit. The FMC worked all my nerves and the overall tone is quite melancholy so I can see why some people might not enjoy this story. However some people might connect with how messy the journey is.

The core of this story is about healing and self-discovery which is a long road no matter where you start or how strong you might think you are. I appreciate how realistic this journey was. At times I wanted to slap Ne’a because girl get it together, but I also liked that it didn’t move too fast. I could see parts of my own journey in the way she handled things. I loved how Zane loved and encouraged her despite her imperfections, without judgement. I loved the friendships.

You’re not here for a fluffy or feel good romance but you will get a story that tugs at your heart.
324 reviews
January 31, 2024
Broken but lovable

Ne’a comes from a tough childhood and just wants to be loved properly. She’s selfless, nurturing, and dealing with a codependency at home. The issues she has are like stain in her life that she wants to wipe away permanently. Zane is newly separated from his wife and returns home to BFR for a job and restart his life. He’s known to have a savor’s complex and running into Ne’a makes it hard to ignore. While falling in love wasn't in his plans something about Ne'a keeps pulling him to her, but his ex wife refuses to let so easily.It's hard to fall for someone who is damaged. It's hard to rebuild when you've been burned. These two learn that as they grow closer together while facing the challenges thrown their way.
Profile Image for SumFire.
670 reviews2 followers
March 14, 2024
WARNING ⚠️ this is a rainy day or weekend read!

This was different from to the love in the club or one night stand/ surprise baby stories I have come to expect from this writer. THAT IS NOT A SHOT!

This has to be the saddest book I've ever read by Tay Mo'Nae. 😩 😪 😫!!

Ne'a had a toxic codependent relationship with her mother that stemmed from her father abandoning them when she was a child. As a result she became a people pleaser of sorts and looked for love in all the wrong men who only took advantage of her kindness.

Zane was mending a broken 💔 and the last thing he was looking for was a relationship until Ne'a. Seeing her heart and her brokenness he couldn't walk away. Bless his heart!

Talk about meeting me where I am at!!

Profile Image for Sassafrass.
3,204 reviews103 followers
June 29, 2025
This book was a lot. Ne'a had a lot of crap handed to her. It just seemed like she couldn't catch a break! I was so glad that she met Zane. She needed a man like him who could show her how a real man stands on business!

But Zane had his own problems. And they certainly came out in an interesting way! So much drama there.

I really liked Zane's brother and Ne'a's best friend. They were a cute couple and really rounded out the story.

Ultimately, I was really happy that these two got their HEA. I wish there was an epilogue set further in the future because I'd love to know how everything made out with them.
1,208 reviews10 followers
December 31, 2023
Loved It

Great read about love, self love, being broken, family and friends! Zane & Ne'a relationship was so natural, I love how Zane built Ne'a up, though he was dealing with his own heartache! Kaia and Jude were so good together and the support they gave to Zane and Ne'a was unmatched! Being a caregiver is not only time consuming, but you forget about yourself and needs. Thankfully, Ne'a had folks around her who would remind her that she need to take care of herself! Great ending and hope to see mode mod them!
Profile Image for Amber Ganaway.
783 reviews13 followers
February 16, 2024
Definitely emotional!!!

This read brought out all the feels. Poor Ne’a she was dealt and bad had from the jump but she always kept pushing even when she didn’t want to. Her “father” was trash and it was truly sad. Zane was dealing with being betrayed, as well as the hurt from losing his son. His ex was looney and delusional. I’m glad that Zane always kept it truthful when it came to how he was feeling. Ne’a doubted herself so much that my heart broke for her. I’m glad that she was getting therapy also and not just depending on Zane to heal her. The ending was beautiful
23 reviews
December 13, 2023
Love this storyline

A refresher to read about a man who can take care of his woman emotionally as opposed to winning her over through his bank account. Don’t get me wrong, I love reading about a man who spoils their woman but in this case she got exactly what she needed. I loved how he could speak life into her due to her lack of confidence/self-esteem. Her journal entries drew up true emotions that I related to more time than I would like to admit. GOOD READ!
Profile Image for Tonia.
3,529 reviews11 followers
December 14, 2023
Every Girl wants Love

Ne'a I get she had issues but it was a little bit to much. Her father was just no good at all. He could of told his wife and daughter off but he chose to remain silent. I can't wait until karma gets him. Zane I'm glad he got rid of Zoe. I had a feeling she had something to do with his accident. They need one more book. I'm hoping they get married and have some children
222 reviews1 follower
December 17, 2023
Na’e and Zane

This story was really good! Honestly, I did cry at times during the book because I could relate on things Na’e went through and her father and siblings was foul for their actions towards her. I glad Zane was there to rebuild her faith and trust, but also heal her heart. Jude and Kaia were funny and would love to know more about them. Thanks for this story I need it in my life!
Profile Image for Darcy J..
328 reviews
December 30, 2023
So Many Emotions 🎢

Do I have a huge cheesey grin on my face and tears after reading this? Yes. I can’t even formulate words right now but just know, that Zoe is on my 💩 list for life. It’s Ne’a and Zane forever. And Zane? His words of affirmation to Ne’a? From the very beginning?? He’s a new fave!! Definitely in my Top 5 book boyfriend's.
I enjoyed this rollercoaster and I hope we can see them in the future!
2,075 reviews14 followers
January 18, 2024
Great read!

In this well written book, Tay Mo’Nae takes us on a roller coaster ride with Zane and Ne’a. Zane is a traveling nurse who is in the middle of a divorce and Ne’a is a caretaker of her mom with abandonment and daddy issues. I loved the realistic storyline and the character development was awesome. Zoe got on my nerves and I’m glad that she was somewhat punished for her actions. Loved the happy ending for Zane and Ne’a.
Profile Image for Tamiko Grant.
486 reviews2 followers
February 13, 2024
Really good read! Ne'a deserved a lot more than she received. Abandoned by her dad, who goes on to create a new family and taking care of an alcoholic mother. She spent her childhood taking care of her mother, when it should've been the other way around. She also had the worse luck with men but along comes Zane. Although Ne'a had a lot of issues, he saw past that. He took care of her, reassured her and built up her confidence. I don't want to say too much but again really good read!
Profile Image for Margerita✨.
63 reviews1 follower
October 7, 2024
Literally could not put it down!! This was a tough read but also so beautiful 🤎 It was extremely devastating to see what Ne'a was going through and it made me so happy to finally witness her start her healing journey and genuinely start living ✨ the loss that Zane experienced....I can't even begin to imagine💔 😥 but It's so amazing to see how far they've come 💫🫶🏾 also Kaia and Jude were the ultimate couple friends 🥰 I loved their personality and their love 😜😍
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews

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