Kandie Shoppe

by Kenya Goree-Bell

“Dirty ass cop.”

It’s sheriff but fine whatever.

Kandie Love is a fũcking mess.

The town tipsy,

The town baker,

The town gossip,

The town —

It doesn’t matter because her little nosey ass has rolled up on something that’s not her business but definitely interferes with mine.

So now I have to put my foot on her throat to keep her from telling everyone what she thinks she saw.

I don’t have time for her, the wildest she makes me feel.

Now, the more I make her bend the more she makes me break.

I left here fifteen years ago to get away from her crazy ass, now I can’t get rid of her.

And now I’m not sure I even want to. Damn.

Genres: Dark Romance

492 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 26, 2024

About the author

Kenya Goree-Bell currently lives in Madison, AL with her former warrior husband and three kids. She is an author and fearless Autism advocate. Writing as Karis Bell, she is also the author of The Harem Diaries Series. She is a life long bibliophile and loves to talk about books. Her purpose in writing is to show the diversity of experience through kindness, acceptance, and inclusion. The Mogul Series is her contemporary debut featuring a diverse group of characters who find their Happy Ever Afters while learning for about themselves in the process. Kenya can be found most Wednesday nights hosting an array of fabulous authors on TheKGB~ The K's Grown & Sexy Book Club, where authors come and talk about craft and their love of books!

Reviews

[kimiwheelielovesbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

I need more of Kandie and Ulysses' story!! These 2 were destined to be together and the rollercoaster ride of their relationship had me freaking out at times!! Oh and did I mention the spice in the book? It's spicy and Kandie is so sassy it adds so much to the banter between her and Ulysses. Please make sure to check your triggers, this book is worth it imo!!

Tropes:
- Second Chance
- Enemies to Lovers (at times)
- Sassy Independent FMC
- Alpha Hero MMC
- Secrets
- Different Worlds
- Rivals/Forbidden Love

TW's:
- Alcoholism (that is not resolved in the story. It will be included in the epilogue.)
- Hero Villain
- Murder
- Primal Play
- Kink (“predator” and “prey.” )
- Growling, Biting, Scratching, Wrestling, and other physical and instinctual behavior.
- Manhandling of FMC
- Graphic Violence
- Kidnapping
- Stalking
- Imprisonment
- Virgin kink
- Intimidation of FMC by MMC
- OTT
- Yelling
- Profanity
- Hunting of FMC by MMC
- Voluntary leaving (running from a crazy
- Pushing Sexual Boundaries
- Heavy Dub-con
- Talk of SA
- Coercion
- Rough Penetrative Sex
- Rough Oral Sex
- Killing
- Blood And Gore
- Ambiguous Non-con
- Light Drug Use (Weed)
- Talk of criminal enterprises as a way of life.
- Mental illness( not used as excuse for bad behavior.)
- Medical abortion as a preventive measure (on page)
- Death of parent on page
- abortion
- Unplanned pregnancy
- Parental death
- Child sex trafficking mentioned off page.

[Alisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a must read! Kenya did it again another 5 star read! I received an ARC of this book and read it in one sitting. Could not get enough of Kandie and Ulysses. Love the dual time lines with other books and you see characters from previous books make cameos in the book. I would suggest reading the other books to get better understanding of the world but can read it as a standalone. The MMC was unhinged in the best way. Love a strong and feisty FMC and Kandie was unapologetic herself. And can’t get enough of this book. This author is a must buy.
If you love curvy sassy FMC and a man possessive protective and all for his women this is the book for you. Can’t wait for the next book! Another 5star from KGB!!!

Summary: Kandie is the town bakery and has know as a drunk. And Ulysses is the town Sheriff. I think best to just dive I don’t want to give too much away best to read and be surprised. You think you know about the characters from the snips you get in other books but boy does the book take you a roller coaster. Steamy read fast pace plot what more can you ask for in a book. Check it out!

[NwabiReads · Rating 3 out of 5]

So this was an ARC read for me!

I enjoyed Kandie and Ulysses story because I have been waiting for it since Easy’s book.

Things I loved:
- How Kandie’s behaviour and feelings were justified based on her history and traumatic past
- How Ulysses kept on showing Kandie how much he wanted her and how his feelings were more than skin deep (considering Kandie doubted that)
- How the Love family bands together

Things I didn’t like:
- How there was no central plot and majority of the plot was around what happened in books 1-4 from Kandi and Ulysses POV, it felt more like filler.
- How spice scenes were just so random and not driving the plot, I enjoyed them but some were not needed.
- How the actual plot (stalker vibes) wasn’t really developed well and felt so rushed

Otherwise I enjoyed the growth the characters exhibited in their own way and the love they had for each other.

[iluvdarkromanceok · Rating 5 out of 5]

*this was an ARC read*
Bad guy has been dethroned from being my favorite book in the Blood Legacy Universe. Kandie Shoppe has become my new favorite. This book, was so easy to read: It flowed so well that I literally didn’t mind that we were basically seeing all the event in books 1-4 over again and then some. Man, I related to Kandie so much. She had me rooting for her like she was my kin. Honestly, out of all her books. This one was the sweetest. They knew each other wounds, sadness, pain, love and etc. They always accepted the other for who they were.. By far the most precious, seamless romance in this series. They are 100% soulmates. I really enjoyed seeing events from books 1-4 through their perspectives. I dare say Mrs. Goree-Bell has set that standard on how to navigate such parellel writing within a interconnected series. Don’t let me forget Ulysses…. WHEW!!! I MEAN WHEW, he is my new book boyfriend. I love that he was quick witted, mean but also such a huge softy. Especially for his wildcat. I need another book about these two. I’m giving you your 10’s Ms. LADY! THIS WAS THEEE BEST BOOK OUT THE SERIES. Good job 🫶🏽

[Winnie Quda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing addition to the series!!

Wonderful book about the love story of Kandie and Ulysses.
Kandie is a strong character who takes no prisoners. She’s not had the best upbringing and has suffered a lot in her childhood and this shows in her present adult life. But through all this there’s U who’s always there for, he will fight/die for his beloved wildcat.

Ulysses is absolutely brilliant, a great match for my beloved Kandie, my type of MMC. With his rugged looks and filthy mouth and the way he will protect Kandie even from herself, wow l was absolutely in love.

Thank you Kenya, this book is all and more that l hoped it would be after reading the previous books in the series. I love the characters and the way their relationship grows and unravels, l was hooked and wanted to find out about what happened in their past and wasn’t disappointed. I am already wondering who the couple are in the final book.l have my guesses and can’t wait. I will definitely read this again.

I am happy and honoured to have received an ARC of this book, l thoroughly enjoyed this book.

[Nita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Babbbby let me tell you Kenya out here slanging crack-laced books!! I finished this masterpiece in two days! She gave us all the tropes second chance, enemies to lovers, "mine", touch her and die, primal/chase. And the spice was 🤌🏾🤌🏾🤌🏾🤌🏾. When Ulysses told Kandi “I hope you know you fucked up tonight letting me have you again.” I knew right then and there je was going to show all the out and give Kandi a run for her money just like she gave him a run for his money. And they did not disappoint. 10/ 10 highly recommend. I will be rereading on release day!!!

[Nadia Latai (Nadiasbookishworld86) · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 🌟😭🩷

Kenya Goree-Bell blood legacy series is addictive and each book gets better & better !!!

This dual POV, between Kandie and Ulysses is combustible! Small Town baker & the small town sheriff combine forces of attraction and history. The very person you're not suppose to like, much less be sniffing around, turns your world on its axis & no is not an option. Ahhhhh thank you so much for taking is readers there ! This is the kind of dark romance I need in my life, crazy unimaginable storylines, dramatic characters that are so off kilter that you crave more..... THIS SERIES IS THE ONE......... 🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵

[Tang “Lovie” Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc Review

Check out my IG for visuals Lovielovereads

I knew going into this read it was going to be a wild ride.. I’ve been waiting for Kandie Loves book.. it did not disappoint, not one bit.. “dirty ass cop” cracked me up every time.. My dear misunderstood Kandie Love made me cry.. ( and that’s a hard thing to do). They were perfect.. I really loved this book.. I’m so excited to introduce my friends to this book when it releases..

I had no idea Ulysses would be this damn unhinged and nasty.. “ohmygoodness”

What a wild ride.. I was not ready for it to end.. I got to the last page and kept tapping on my kindle.. I can wait for the epilogue..

[BookKraves · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms. Kenya Goree Bell, please stand up and be recognized for your spectacular work in Kandie Shoppe.

The seamless integration of scenes from Bad Guy, Easy Like Sunday Morning, and Darling Nikki elevates this book to an extraordinary level. These nostalgic elements had me reminiscing about Angel, Easy, Nikki, and Mathias, instantly transporting me to a place of fond memories.

Initially, I was unsure whether I would connect with Kandie or Ulysses, given their portrayal in previous books. However, I found myself rooting for them as a couple when I encountered them in this story.

Some of the standout moments in the book include the gripping jail scenes, the heartfelt reading of the letters, and, of course, the unforgettable bull riding. These scenes had me on the edge of my seat and fully immersed in the narrative.

Kandie Shoppe exceeded my expectations. It is blend of dark, second-chance romance, opposites-attract dynamics, and a timeless love/hate relationship. This combination sets the book apart from others in the series.

Bravo, Kenya! Kandie Shoppe is a must-read for any romance lover, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an enthralling and emotionally satisfying read.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kenya Goree-Bell’s Blood Legacy series bring to life the Love and Shelby feud, and the men and women who defy the legacy of hate - not without a lot of conflict along the way.
Kandi Love and Ulysses Shelby meet on a night both suffer tragic and life altering loss. What follows is more than a decade of back and forth, defined by both grief and hope.
Kandi appears in the previous books, always bit messy, known as the town’s “good time” girl, frequently drunk, often arrested, known for not backing down when someone needs help. Now we get to see why, and it is truly heartbreaking. She’s a fighter, loyal to those she loves, and builds a successful business from the ground up, even with serious barriers to learning.
Ulysses’ father is the black sheet of the Shelby’s, doing as much as possible to get out from under the thumb of his corrupt and evil father - not all the way, but enough to build a life as sheriff, marry the woman he loves and raise his son to be a good man. After a brief fling with Kandi, Ulysses spends 10 years in the military, returning home scarred inside and out, picking up his father’s mantle as sheriff and to care for his ailing mother.
At first he ignores Kandi, angered by the party girl facade and hurting at what he sees as her betrayal by not writing to him during his time away. He encounters her one night after she’s been injured, no longer able to ignore the woman who has his heart.
Both hot tempered, often lashing out with hurtful words, the pain coming to the surface the more time they spend together. Many of these scenes serve to excise the wounds, clearing out the poison
The timeline is parallel to the previous books, but can stand entirely on their own. You’ll want to read the others though, I guarantee. Kandi is both vulnerable and a spitfire, though Ulysses calls her his wildcat, and she lives up that name. She is both soft and feisty, carrying grief in her soul, feeing unworthy but so giving and kind. In the backdrop of her and Ulysses volcanic reunion, she is still in danger from a stalker, as well as betrayal by those she trusts.
Kandi is in danger, but she’s not damsel in distress. She’s far from perfect, and that is what I enjoyed most about this story. She is messy, sometimes makes decisions not in her best interest, and can be her own worst enemy at times. That does not detract from her indomitable spirt, her fight and her vulnerability. She and Ulysses are soul mates, and their HEA is well earned. Another first class tale by Goree-Bell, highly recommended.

[Leo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review from ARC Kenya Goree-Bell
Kenya Goree-Bell has done it again. I dropped the book I was reading to start this and I was not disappointed. I really liked this book and I loved Ulysses and Kandi, especially Ulysses. We have seen snippets of both characters through the other Blood Legacy Series but it was really good to see them fully fleshed out. I was so glad that we got to see Kandie as more than the 'town drunk/gossip' we saw that she was a woman with a deeply traumatic past that she was trying to get through. We see the main characters move through the other storylines and their part in them also the ramifications of their actions.
I really enjoyed Kandie's don't give a F attitude as it wasn't overdone, it was just her defence mechanism and I loved how she adored her family. Ulysses my man my man my man. I really liked how he was written a perfect match for Kandie. it was good to see him as more than his occupation and his corrupted family. He was a loving son, a supported partner (even though he said some things to Kandie that made me want to roundhouse kick him in to the next town) I loved that we saw representatives in numerous from dyslexia, autism and PTSD.
The story took a darker tone with some of the backstory that plays a part in the present story. I really wanted to see more flashbacks of their story in the past on how they bonded through their shared trauma so it would have grounded them more as their relationship bonding
(physically) was H.O.T AF! but I really wanted to see their time together where others weren't around or interfering. overall a fun read and a nice look at a different POV of the storylines prior. Can't wait until the next ones.

[RaeMisha Richard-Slocumb · Rating 4 out of 5]

now that Cake sound so good too me 🍰🔥💜

Giving this book a 4.8
Spice level 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Now let’s get into the review: Let me go around and say what was this book cooking because I was all for it in the beginning. I took my time and read through it thoroughly so I don’t miss anything but Kandi’s Kandi’s she is too much I tell you that . So much miscommunication and misinformation, like girl Ulysses was right this I feel like this book should have been smacked in the middle of the first three books not make this the fifth book because this book was around the first three books that I have read and it all made sense. I felt like toxic could’ve been last. One thing about books I don’t like is the miscommunication that mess up the book for me. This book was too much for me lol I was laughing. I was gasping. I was enjoying it. It was a lot going on in this book in a good and a bad way for me, but that’s just me. Book was good don’t get me wrong but through the whole book it was miscommunication and on how Kandie was being so childish and acting up . Plus using her trama to get in the way of her own happiness. She has been dealing with so much and the only way she know how to do is either fight or get drunk but I know she has a heart heart, “Trauma realized is sometimes the best antidote. “ Don’t get me wrong Ulysses had his ups and down too but he said it was not a good person and it was up front about it too. It was good to read the other characters from the other four books. And finally get pieces put together on the other characters that i felt like was missed . Me being a twin myself i know how it is to feel when you lose a sister and seeing how that felt gave me so much emotion. Finding out their will be more books coming and that little surprise got so excited, Good book that was an amazing author. .

[Ju Berrymore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kandie Love and Ulysses Shelby are the most explosive couple of the Blood Legacy Series thus far! They have a long, tragic history that makes for a dark romance and thrilling read. I recieved an ARC copy of Kandie Shoppe and I gobbled it up in one day. Kandie and Sheriff Shelby are two very tortured souls as individuals but when they come together their chemistry is 🥵🥵 The spice in this one is chef's kiss! 🤌🏿 So far, they're the sexiest couple and my personal favorite. 


They're complete opposites; Kandie is wild and reckless and Ulysses is stern and disciplined yet somehow they balance each other out when they do work. When they don't, they are pure chaos. Kandie's inner monologue is hilarious 🤣🤣 which is a nice reprieve from some of the dark elements of the story.

And there are some very dark and heavy elements with this story as with the rest of the Blood Legacy Series and Kenya does a great job navigating them and how their effect on the characters. Both Ulysses and Kandie felt very real and relatable, especially Kandie.

This book was a thrill ride but it did feel a bit rushed toward the end when integrating all the time lines and events that occurred within the previous books of the series. However, the version I recieved didn't have an epilogue so some of what I felt was missing could very well be covered in the final version including the epilogue. Overall, I highly recommend this book! 5 stars!! Thank you, Kenya Goree-Bell. 🤩

[Aneka · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kenya Goree-Bell has a way of telling a story that will make you giggle, kick your feet, and feel like you’re apart of the story.

My first book by her was Toxic, which STILL had me on a chokehold, but this one right here!! Whew.

Let’s start with the tropes…
📚 second chance romance
📚 lovers to enemies to lovers… to… complicated to lovers
📚 baker x sheriff
📚 grumpy x wild child
📚 shared trauma
📚 miscommunication
📚 “who did this to you”
📚 possessive MMC
📚 small town romance

The story takes place in a small jointly controlled by the Shelby’s and the Love’s. We get two MC’s with deep rooted trauma that you hope can get it right. This book makes you root for them, then get frustrated with them, then remember the mess they’ve gone through. And just when I thought it wouldn’t get worse… it did. I nearly cried from the agony these two went through.

When it comes to the miscommunication trope, I loved that their disconnect was because of someone else and not the two of them. It made it more impactful because they had no way of truly knowing what the other felt. It makes the story com across like it’s just two casual lovers butting heads.

This reading journey was worth it because every moment, question, and puzzle piece aligned. Even if I did wish I could have basked in them falling in love again, but I’ll hold out for the epilogue when I get the book.

⭐️: 4.7
🌶️: 5

[No name girl the quiet one · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is something about morally gray characters that I just love so much. I love Ulysses and Kandie I need more of the story, I need no I demand a second book because I miss their crazy ass.
I really didn't know how I was going to like this, but once I shut off my brain and drove in the to story I was sold. I felt for Kandie how she lost her family in a fire that girl is a fighter. She has been through some bad things in her life but that does get her down, I loved the storyline that evloves around her bakery. The way how everyone in town loves her baked goods ( GOD I wish I could bake like her) On the other hand Ulysses is what Kandie would say a "Dirty ass cop" One thing I love about " U" is that he would kill for his family, I loved the way he cared for his mom (I have a few words say to her) the way he would take her to her doctor appointents and just ot check up on his mother who was unfortunately dying. This has made me sad, happy and any other emotion you can think of. I've been in a pretty bad reading slump and this definitely helped me get out of my funk. So I'm glad I made my self read this and this is definitely in my re-reads this year. Now I want to say one last thing before I go, that one scene where U was chasing K through the wood OMG it was one og the best scenes in the books minus her burning his truck lmaooo I'm surprised that girl was not in prison.

[Kathryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

💐 Kandie Love deserves all of the flowers. 💐

Kandie Shoppe is a beautiful read. Kandie has been a favorite of mine- ever since I came across her in Always Be My Baby. She was loud, unapologetic and loved her family fiercely. How could I not be a fan? This book does her justice. It was well worth the wait. I really just adore her.

Was the spice - spicing? Oh yes 😈 Was Ulysses everything he needed to be while chasing down her wild tail? Most definitely. 🥳 Could I read about their antics for thousands of pages? Absolutely.🥹 (This book was not that long- but I would totally read about them forever.)

Reading her story truly connects all of the Blood Legacy books together. I recommend going back and re-reading the previous books. Which is always a pleasure- but I don’t think it is 100% necessary to enjoy this book. Shout out to KGB for always having representation for the curvy girls; the girls who are neurodivergent; and the girls who so happen to like them a little bad…

I didn't plan on finishing this book in one sitting- but that's just how good it is!

I received an ARC of this book- but the opinions are all my own.

[Krys The Reading Blogger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!!! Just Wow!!!!!

I think I say this line in all of my reviews for Miss KGB but how she continues to top her last book amazes me every single time. I can’t explain how much I love this book world. The craziness of the Shelby’s and Love’s make me smile so deep. The intertwining of these characters and their stories is done so masterfully. Scenes from prior books are repeated in this one from Kandie and Ulysses POV and it’s as if I’ve read them for the first time all over again. These two crazies were meant to be. Bonded from a tragic night that changed the course of both their lives. Unfortunately due to circumstances beyond their control they were apart for a while. This book explores their way back to each other. Showing their vulnerabilities and underlying traumas. The ending will leave you yearning for the next book. Miss Kenya Goree-Bell continues to shine through her pages giving us all the spicy, mean, beautiful, funny and sweetness we’ve come to expect from her books. Believe me U and Kandie will have you rooting for them and wanting more of them. I’d highly recommend giving this book a read or two.

[ejbooks25 · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️
4🌶

"I KNOW ** GIGGLES**"!!.... YOU REALLY SAID I KNOW GIGGLES!!!!!

KENYAAAAAAAA!!!

I was reading the epilogue, and I was like "Wow she is really wrapping up this book." THEN BAM some new shit!!!

Did I like Kandie's and U's book as well as the others... no, but I like getting to know them more. The second half of the book and the epioluge made it a 4 star read.

I felt like the beginning half of the book was a little slow. It may be because I was still pissed at Kandie from Easy's book. Having to relive Easy leaving and Angel looking for her had me 38 hot all over again. It lowkey made me hate her all over again. I know why she did it, but damn I wanted just to wait and get the whole truth.

She is a strong wildcat, and I think most couldn't deal with the hand she was dealt with in life, and she made the most of it.

I didn't like that U kept going back and forth. I needed him to be relentless in his need for her.

I did like chase scenes 😈 🐈‍⬛️😼 I energy from U more often. Not the imma keep her at the distance and keep putting her in jail to be a lesson.

Also fuck you know who!!! He got what he deserved!

[Cheryl Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

🔥😍🔥Kandie and Ulysses🔥😍🔥

This book is not for the rainbows and unicorns readers. It is dark, sexy, gritty and dangerous. If you are not into curvy black girls getting their sexy man, this ain’t for you.

I don’t give spoilers.

Throughout the Blood Legacy series KGB has given us snippets of Kandie and Ulysses. But you are never prepared for their story. I was on the edge of my seat from the beginning. If it wasn’t for their relationship, or the mystery behind the incident, or tying inall the other Blood Legacy books, I was on the edge of my seat. I felt their love deep in my soul. I feel like there is no real man to compare to this one. I am so glad they got the HEA but… Oh my freaking God the ending!

I highly recommend reading this book. Friday, July 26 was its release date and I’ve read it twice so far. I’m about to read it again. As I do with all of the blood legacy books.

[Deja Trotman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where do I even begin!

First I just want to tell Kenya that your writing truly is the escape that I crave from my normal day to day!

Second I want to say that I did not think that any of the men in this series could over take my tie for first place between Angel and Hishasi! But then swoops in Ulysses! This mad had me drooling on my damn kindle!

The way he is so grumpy and possessive and loving will have y’all needing to change your under garments!

And Kandie is the FMC that we all love! Sassy, bold and says what eve is on her mind! And man can she handle her own!

These two are the perfect combination of chaos and utter seduction! From the prïmal pl@y to the dirty talk to the pure and utter moments on unadulterated love in these pages!

I cannot wait for yall to read this !!!!

Stars: 5/5 ⭐️
Spice: Carolina Reaper

[Jay · Rating 5 out of 5]

The saying ‘The road to hell is paved with good intentions’ is summed up perfectly in this book.
I will never get tired of reading about the awesome families in this town. Each story is written in such a way that gives the reader a greater understanding of the beautiful yet flawed characters and none was more flawed than Kandie and Ulysses.
This story really took me through the wringer from the first page to the last. Laced with angst, passion, heartache, joy and pain Kandie Shoppe shone a light on the best of human nature and the absolute worst. Of love lost and found and betrayals that cuts deep and what it really means to find the answer to one’s soul.
A beautiful story that deserves more than five stars!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kayla Kensington · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn't ready!

This book had me up all night and took my whole day! I couldn't put it down. It draws you in. I've read the other books in the series (which I think enhances the reading experience) so I couldn't wait for Kandie Shoppe to come out! I don't want to give anything away but I do think this book will take you through several emotions. It certainly did that for me. At first I was kind of upset at Kandie's character from an incident in a previous book in the series but I feel like I understand her so much better now. Everyone has a story. I really enjoyed reading Kandie's and Ulysses'. Kandie shoppe and Toxic are definitely my faves in this series. I do suggest paying attention to the content warnings. If they aren't a problem for you then please pick this up.

[Cleo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whew!

Oh my! KGB didn’t come to play! While I like all of this series, Kandie had me a little worried. I was sure if I could bond or like her. Well, I love everything about how she was written. Loyal, kind and prickly is how I came to see her.
Ulysses was questionable. I didn’t fall for him immediately, I felt he could have been a little more kinder or loving to Kandie. Their chemistry was off the charts but their struggle to see one another kept me cheering for their beautiful ending. Ms. KGB writes one hell of story. The twist and turns in this book had me until the end. Like, why didn’t I figure out who did what?!?!? And let’s not forget the epilogue, KGB didn’t have to do us like that! Got me feening and waiting on the next drop. Well done Ms. KGB! Well done! I’m going to have to reread this one!

[Erika · Rating 3 out of 5]

mixed feelings (contains spoilers)

The book was interesting, however I really struggled to like Kkandie. I understand her childhood trauma, however she was frustrating to no end. Her lack of trust in Ulisses, risking all their lives was too much. I really disliked the fact that she didn’t actually apologize for jumping to conclusions, but instead we had Ulisses apologizing to her. She never too any kind of accountability but for her atrocious behavior, whilst drunk. Lastly, Ulisses giving up as Sheriff was annoying. I understand wanting to be with his wife but all traditions are not wrong, and having a Shelby, living on Love land, whilst being the Sheriff would be a better story line.
I wasn’t surprised that the twin was still alive.
As for his mother, it’s a good thing that she died, because I can’t see how he could have forgiven her supporting his baby abortion.

[lashae' · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc reviewer here!

I'VE BEEN WAITING ON THIS BOOK AND ALL I CAN SAY IS....BABY YES! THIS BOOK! this book was everything I needed it to be and more! I had a feeling a out that ole pastor boy! Also, SHE KNEW IN HER HEART ABOUT HER TWIN! (That's all I'm going to say!)
Ulysses is a monster that I totally wouldn't mind hunting me 😬😌 Kandie I understand! I would've sent his momma to meet Jesus quicker than her illness! She was selfish right until the very end! That hurt my heart! She said I'd father didn't want him but I feel like it was her! She did unnecessary damage and I would've at least slapped her!
The hearted scenes where SPICY! 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 and you blended the stories together smoothly! Kandie was strong from beginning to end and I loved her! Thank you for this!

[Janet R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five Spectacular ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐for Wildcat Kandie & Sheriff Ulysses

What a delightful way to kick off 2025💫 💃by going on this literary thrill ride with the Blood Legacy series featuring wildcat Kandie 🍰the baker extraordinaire & morally grey, Adonis BDE sheriff- Ulysses Shelby! ✍️ Kenya Goree-Bell brought all the darkness, drama, ❤ angst, twists, suspense & 🔥🔥🔥🔥we have come to expect . Let me tell you, the 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 was spicing!!! especially the primal play😈. Best of all, she did not soften Ulysses; he and all the other alpha male characters remained unrepentantly bad in the most delicious way😍 & the extended epilogue was the chef's 💋. I can't wait for the other 📚in the series to be released 😘Happy Reading🍷

[Brandi - RomanceStanAccount · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of the book. I got into this series by accident because I do not even read dark romance but I stayed for the plot and and so happy I have come across Kenya and her books. They make you want to read more. I really enjoy how the books are interconnected and I love the whole Shelby-Love town background. That being said, U was a straight terror. Kandie was so strong and bad ass I really enjoyed it. Ulysses's and Kandie had a love/hate, push pull kind of love that could not be severed no matter how hard they tried. The theme of family was strong in this one and Kandie and U found a family between themselves. Oh ima need the epilogue ASAP.

[Shalandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read every book in the Blood Legacy series, and I must say the story of Kandie and Ulysses was unique. For me this was the first story where the characters had years of unsolved trauma. Without giving too much away the author does a great job of building a current relationship with the couple and working on past trauma. This couple was meant for each other and U fought to make sure Kandie and the entire town knew it. There are also a few gems from other books in the series that solve a lot of questions, if readers are paying attention. I received this book as an ARC and enjoyed it so much I purchased after my review.

[Tiffany C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ohmygoodness—words of Miss Kandie Love

I received this book as an ARC and I couldn’t be more excited to read it. This story follows Ulysses Shelby and Kandie Love. If you’ve been following this series, then you know that the two families fued against one another. This story is no different. However it’s not as dark as the others, but Ulysses is still just as unhinged and loves Kandie throughout all her mess. He lets it be known that he is hers she is his and she couldn’t have made that anymore clearer than when she set his truck in fire.

Spoiler*
We do learn that her dead sister is not dead and book 6 and 6 are coming!!! I cannot wait!!

[Bose Néné · Rating 4 out of 5]

THIS WAS THE BEST ONE IN THE ENTIRE SERIES!!!
I want to read and know everything! I really need to see that family tree on the Love and the Shelby side!
I absolutely adore Kandie and Ulysses, they are beautiful and I'm so happy they got their HEA, they deserve that and more. I'm just a glutton who wants more 😭, I'm just praying I like Snake's story cos I want to read stories for Summer, Rocco, Joi, Clover, Oz etc. They are so many, I don't know how Ms. Kenya keeps them all straight but I absolutely loved this and I can't wait for more!!!

MY SERIES RATING: (so far)
1. Kandie Shoppe 🤩🥰😘
2. Bad guy😍🖤
3. Toxic❤️‍🩹🥹
4. Easy like Sunday morning ❤️
5. Darling Nikki👍🏾