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Kane: A Gangster's Love Story
She is a talented and ambitious fashion designer.
He has a notorious reputation as an arms dealer, entangled in a dangerous realm where power and secrecy reign.
Fate brought them together one sunny afternoon. She needed him and little did he know, he needed her more.
From the moment they laid eyes on one another, Kane and Serenity wanted forever with one another, flaws and all. That was before they realized that they were on separate pages in life. Undoubtedly, the two souls love one another deeply. But as time passes, their chosen diverging paths begin to strain their relationship. Serenity's unwavering dedication to her dreams leads her to make a difficult decision—to move to New York and pursue her career on a grander scale. Their separation is painful, and the distance between them shatters the love they once shared.
Can Kane and Serenity somehow bridge the gap between their dreams and desires to find a common ground? And if so, at what price?
A Gangster’s Love Story is an urban romance that navigates the complexities of love, the pursuit of dreams, lies, and deception.
He has a notorious reputation as an arms dealer, entangled in a dangerous realm where power and secrecy reign.
Fate brought them together one sunny afternoon. She needed him and little did he know, he needed her more.
From the moment they laid eyes on one another, Kane and Serenity wanted forever with one another, flaws and all. That was before they realized that they were on separate pages in life. Undoubtedly, the two souls love one another deeply. But as time passes, their chosen diverging paths begin to strain their relationship. Serenity's unwavering dedication to her dreams leads her to make a difficult decision—to move to New York and pursue her career on a grander scale. Their separation is painful, and the distance between them shatters the love they once shared.
Can Kane and Serenity somehow bridge the gap between their dreams and desires to find a common ground? And if so, at what price?
A Gangster’s Love Story is an urban romance that navigates the complexities of love, the pursuit of dreams, lies, and deception.
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About the author
Talena Tillman
34 books308 followersTalena Tillman is a native of Houston, Texas. At thirty years young, she has already made her mark on the literary world. Notoriously known for her novellas, Talena has mastered the ability to give a full story within a hundred and something pages. Her series “Kane” is her reader’s favorite. She writes urban romance, penning imperfect black love beautifully.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews
September 23, 2023
I’m just getting into short stories and I was afraid this would feel rushed but it didn’t. You get all the important details without the fluff. Kane and Serenity had such an intense love that I didn’t understand how they could call it quits bc Serenity was chasing her dreams in NY. And with no contact?
Serenity ended up having a secret that she had no choice but to reveal to Kane when they reconnected and I was upset with her like I was part of the Santiago family 😭
This story ends on a cliff hanger so let me run to book two to see how the drama unfolds.
Serenity ended up having a secret that she had no choice but to reveal to Kane when they reconnected and I was upset with her like I was part of the Santiago family 😭
This story ends on a cliff hanger so let me run to book two to see how the drama unfolds.
February 19, 2025
INITIAL READ 8/19/24
That ending, tho 😯
REREAD 2/19/25
I still rate it 4 stars.
Zane is going to be a fucking problem 🤦🏿♂️
That ending, tho 😯
REREAD 2/19/25
I still rate it 4 stars.
Zane is going to be a fucking problem 🤦🏿♂️
October 20, 2023
Love Returns
They say if its real love, if you let it go, it will come back if it's meant to be.
Kane and Serenity have been together 3 years and they are head over heels in love with each other. Their chemistry is on 10 and the peace and safety that is ever present when they are around each other is unmatched. Unfortunately they find themselves in different chapters of this book called life. Kane is inheriting his families illegal business while Serenity is pursuing her dream in the fashion world. Although they want nothing more than to remain together, the timing is not right. Serenity's dream is taking her to New York and they agree to separate. Little did either of them know, they would forever be bound to each other. Fast forward 2 yrs later, they finally reunite and the love and chemistry is still strong. However, Kane's little brother Zane has found love with a forbidden woman and life as they know it is threatened.
Ready for the 2nd book
They say if its real love, if you let it go, it will come back if it's meant to be.
Kane and Serenity have been together 3 years and they are head over heels in love with each other. Their chemistry is on 10 and the peace and safety that is ever present when they are around each other is unmatched. Unfortunately they find themselves in different chapters of this book called life. Kane is inheriting his families illegal business while Serenity is pursuing her dream in the fashion world. Although they want nothing more than to remain together, the timing is not right. Serenity's dream is taking her to New York and they agree to separate. Little did either of them know, they would forever be bound to each other. Fast forward 2 yrs later, they finally reunite and the love and chemistry is still strong. However, Kane's little brother Zane has found love with a forbidden woman and life as they know it is threatened.
Ready for the 2nd book
August 29, 2023
Everything you thought you knew about Kane and Serenity just got better! Talena Tillman knows she can write an excellent urban read. I’ve said it before she is killing the literary world with her novellas; she fits so much of EVERYTHING in 100 pages 😩. When I started this book, I fell in love with Kane all over again because the way he loved Serenity was borderline obsessive, but y’all know I’m here for the crazy😝. Serenity took me through it. I wanted to root for her, but oooo weee, she made it hard, but in the end, I’m just happy things worked out. Talena Tillman is dead wrong for the ending of this book, and believe me, I let her know it because even days after reading this book, I'm still shook waiting for the drama! I need more, and I need it now!
August 31, 2023
I enjoyed Kane and Serenity's love story. Although Kane was heavy in the streets, he was a gentleman with Serenity. She gave him a soft place to land in his chaotic world and became the peace he needed to function. Serenity loved Kane something serious, but her career aspirations were pulling her to New York, and away from Satin Hills. It broke her to have to leave Kane, but she needed to do this for herself. Both Kane and Serenity struggled with the breakup and missed each other terribly. However, they both were too stubborn to reach out and connect.
Serenity, I was stunned when I found out the monumental secret you have been hiding! Gurl, don't you know that Kane is going to be livid the longer you wait to tell him? Ughhh.... 🤬 When fate brings these two back together again, they realized the love they shared was still alive and well. While trying to work it all out, Serenity's guilt is killing her, so she spills the beans and Kane is mad as hell! Although Kane is still pissed at Serenity, he calms down as he gets to know his new normal.
Talena, ma'am! I know you did not just snatch my breath like that and type the end! 🤯😡 Whew lawd, poor Kane got his hands full now! I knew Zane was a livewire and reckless, but THIS! Bruh?? What the hell? You not only put your own life in jeopardy, but the lives of your entire family!! Pablo's not going to like this! 😂 My heart is racing on Kane's behalf, as I know he is frantically trying to figure out how to come out of this with his family unscathed. Especially after he just promised Serenity, they could have a regular life. Damn you Zane, with yo selfish ass! Come on with the come on Talena. I'm ready! 👍👍👍
Serenity, I was stunned when I found out the monumental secret you have been hiding! Gurl, don't you know that Kane is going to be livid the longer you wait to tell him? Ughhh.... 🤬 When fate brings these two back together again, they realized the love they shared was still alive and well. While trying to work it all out, Serenity's guilt is killing her, so she spills the beans and Kane is mad as hell! Although Kane is still pissed at Serenity, he calms down as he gets to know his new normal.
Talena, ma'am! I know you did not just snatch my breath like that and type the end! 🤯😡 Whew lawd, poor Kane got his hands full now! I knew Zane was a livewire and reckless, but THIS! Bruh?? What the hell? You not only put your own life in jeopardy, but the lives of your entire family!! Pablo's not going to like this! 😂 My heart is racing on Kane's behalf, as I know he is frantically trying to figure out how to come out of this with his family unscathed. Especially after he just promised Serenity, they could have a regular life. Damn you Zane, with yo selfish ass! Come on with the come on Talena. I'm ready! 👍👍👍
October 25, 2023
3.5⭐️
A cute second chance romance. 🤎
Kane and Ren Ren’s story was well written and entertaining. Lil brother, Zane, came through swinging with that ending.
A cute second chance romance. 🤎
Kane and Ren Ren’s story was well written and entertaining. Lil brother, Zane, came through swinging with that ending.
August 28, 2023
Kane
This was so good. I was hanging on to every word! I can’t wait to see how it all works out for Kane and now Zane 😩
This was so good. I was hanging on to every word! I can’t wait to see how it all works out for Kane and now Zane 😩
August 28, 2023
👀👀👀
Got me wrapped up in Kane and Serenity’s story to leave me wanting Zane’s story right now. Cliffhanger killed me. But as far as Kane’s story goes I was absolutely surprised that Kane forgave Serenity so fast. He should have made her give him some time. Now with what Zane has going on is Kane gonna be able to get out like he intends to do? Too many questions
Got me wrapped up in Kane and Serenity’s story to leave me wanting Zane’s story right now. Cliffhanger killed me. But as far as Kane’s story goes I was absolutely surprised that Kane forgave Serenity so fast. He should have made her give him some time. Now with what Zane has going on is Kane gonna be able to get out like he intends to do? Too many questions
September 12, 2023
Bloodline on the front line
Babbyyy, I am stuck! The ending has my head spinning. The way this story turned & lit up da literary streets has me screamin'!
The growth in this author's pen in such a short time is amazing! A novella Queen has taken the crown. The quality of the writing is seasoned and ranking among many of the best that has done it! Well done, Talena! I'm so excited for what you have to give us next!
Babbyyy, I am stuck! The ending has my head spinning. The way this story turned & lit up da literary streets has me screamin'!
The growth in this author's pen in such a short time is amazing! A novella Queen has taken the crown. The quality of the writing is seasoned and ranking among many of the best that has done it! Well done, Talena! I'm so excited for what you have to give us next!
August 29, 2023
This has a cliffhanger 🤦🏾♀️
August 29, 2023
awesome
Thank you for sharing your gift with us you books are awesome and I look for them all the time because I always finish them in a day
Thank you for sharing your gift with us you books are awesome and I look for them all the time because I always finish them in a day
September 11, 2024
Well damn, that took a turn in more than one way. It hooked me. I’m intrigued.
April 11, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
May 6, 2024
Whew, I’m stressed!
February 20, 2025
This book had no business being this short. I really enjoy Talena's stories!
April 7, 2025
3.5👶🏽👶🏽👶🏽🪡🪡🪡
December 30, 2025
This was a good and nice short read. Just enough spice and plot.
December 15, 2025
Ooooweeee Gotta get the 2nd one.
February 27, 2024
⭐️MY BOOK REVIEW⭐️
RATE:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This story follows Serenity and Kane, Serenity met Kane at his father’s restaurant and they have been glued at the hip for 3 years. Kane rescued Serenity from her self because she was fighting a really bad addiction, after Kane helped her get clean he also helped her chase her dreams which is to be a fashion designer. Kane was exposed to the fast life at a young age because his father Zion ran one of the biggest arms dealing business and since he was Zion first born son he had to step up and take over the family business when his father stepped down. Even though Serenity loved him and stuck by his side she didn’t want to live the fast lifestyle where she had to worry about looking over her shoulder so she left to New York to chase her dreams while they ended up splitting up, she never stopped loving Kane she also kept a huge secret from him and all it took was for 2 years later him popping up in new York and running into her at the club to find out the most shocking secret ever… what would you do if the person that always had your heart kept a secret so big do you think you could forgive them??
💕FAVORITE QOUTE💕
“I’m so fuckin’ proud of you. I ain’t tryna hold you back from yo’ dreams. After everything you’ve been through, you deserve that shit. But sometimes I just…”
🫧TROPES🫧
• INSTA LOVE
• MENTIONS OF ADDICTION
• SECRET BABY
• FAMILY BUISNESS
• FOUND FAMILY
RATE:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This story follows Serenity and Kane, Serenity met Kane at his father’s restaurant and they have been glued at the hip for 3 years. Kane rescued Serenity from her self because she was fighting a really bad addiction, after Kane helped her get clean he also helped her chase her dreams which is to be a fashion designer. Kane was exposed to the fast life at a young age because his father Zion ran one of the biggest arms dealing business and since he was Zion first born son he had to step up and take over the family business when his father stepped down. Even though Serenity loved him and stuck by his side she didn’t want to live the fast lifestyle where she had to worry about looking over her shoulder so she left to New York to chase her dreams while they ended up splitting up, she never stopped loving Kane she also kept a huge secret from him and all it took was for 2 years later him popping up in new York and running into her at the club to find out the most shocking secret ever… what would you do if the person that always had your heart kept a secret so big do you think you could forgive them??
💕FAVORITE QOUTE💕
“I’m so fuckin’ proud of you. I ain’t tryna hold you back from yo’ dreams. After everything you’ve been through, you deserve that shit. But sometimes I just…”
🫧TROPES🫧
• INSTA LOVE
• MENTIONS OF ADDICTION
• SECRET BABY
• FAMILY BUISNESS
• FOUND FAMILY
August 30, 2023
sheeeeshhh!
Talena can write a story honey!
I need part 2 cus Chile while I expected a little something to happen with Aliya, I wasn’t expecting all that.
Protect Ren and Kane and their little family, pleaaaseee!
Talena can write a story honey!
I need part 2 cus Chile while I expected a little something to happen with Aliya, I wasn’t expecting all that.
Protect Ren and Kane and their little family, pleaaaseee!
February 19, 2024
WTH JUST HAPPENED??????? I just flipped my kindle because what did I just encounter at the end of this book. I mean I knew the Santiago’s was gonna have to get involved with Aliya and Pablo’s shit when I realized that’s who her soon to be husband is but sis…….. I never expected it to be at this magnitude. It’s bad enough Serenity and Kane ran my pressure up and here you come adding Aliya, Pablo AND Zane to the mix. WHEW!!!! This was good. I mean real good. You can write tf outta some stories and you can end tf outta them too with bombs and cliff hangers. Thank God Part 2 is already available cause you got me over looking like a meme. I thought Elijah and Kehlani story had me but this a close second sis. ⭐️🔥⭐️🔥⭐️
October 4, 2023
I slid off the bed at the ending...
TALENA!!!!!! Do you sit and write how you're going to ruin lives sis?! This book, the ending I'm gonna need therapy because I know there will be bloodshed in the book that follows. I feel like all parties were wrong except Zane he the only one that didn't do anything and now has to find a solution for everything.
TALENA!!!!!! Do you sit and write how you're going to ruin lives sis?! This book, the ending I'm gonna need therapy because I know there will be bloodshed in the book that follows. I feel like all parties were wrong except Zane he the only one that didn't do anything and now has to find a solution for everything.
August 14, 2024
⭐️⭐️
Plot - 2/5
Characters - 1/5
Spice - 🌶️
This book just wasn’t for me. I didn’t see the romance between Kane and Ren and quite frankly, I didn’t care. The surprise baby was predictable. I also struggled to acknowledge that a 22 month old speaks in clear, 4-5 word sentences, no matter how advanced he is claimed to be.
Plot - 2/5
Characters - 1/5
Spice - 🌶️
This book just wasn’t for me. I didn’t see the romance between Kane and Ren and quite frankly, I didn’t care. The surprise baby was predictable. I also struggled to acknowledge that a 22 month old speaks in clear, 4-5 word sentences, no matter how advanced he is claimed to be.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2025
You got to be kidding me this book should not have been split into two parts. The first book felt like 10 pages. I’m disappointed the story has potential but it’s just not working.
October 2, 2023
spoilers
Ok, first of all how is it Serenity and Kane are so in love, and he did all that he had for her but she leaves for 2 years that easily and with no contact? Didn’t give long distance dating a try or anything. No plans of ever being together again. That’s crazy!
I definitely don’t like the fact she hid Kane’s son from him for 2 years. I get why but that’s a bit extreme. Then, he’s so angry with her but sleeps with her right after finding out and now they are back together.
What Zane has done is straight up selfish and if I was Kane I’d tell him he is on his own handling that situation. Y’all met at a party and you just fall for your suppliers wife knowing the risk! You love her but still doing your own thing with other women too?
This is a whole mess! I see where this is going tho.
Ok, first of all how is it Serenity and Kane are so in love, and he did all that he had for her but she leaves for 2 years that easily and with no contact? Didn’t give long distance dating a try or anything. No plans of ever being together again. That’s crazy!
I definitely don’t like the fact she hid Kane’s son from him for 2 years. I get why but that’s a bit extreme. Then, he’s so angry with her but sleeps with her right after finding out and now they are back together.
What Zane has done is straight up selfish and if I was Kane I’d tell him he is on his own handling that situation. Y’all met at a party and you just fall for your suppliers wife knowing the risk! You love her but still doing your own thing with other women too?
This is a whole mess! I see where this is going tho.
August 29, 2024
I realized that I love me an urban fiction. This short story is no different. Kane and Serenity had a love that stood time. Even with the years apart they both still were the same and the energy never changed or died for one another. Seeing each other through some really rough and dark times really had them bonded for like and not on a trauma bond either. You could tell the love was real and pure. When Serenity chased her dreams and Kane supported even if he was not on board. She had dreams and wanted a better life and out of the life they currently live. Staying away without communication for two whole years and it was as if nothing changed. Everything was smooth until she dropped and bomb and then it was even more fucked your by the bomb Kane’s brother dropped changing all the damn plans yet again. I am rushing my ass right over to read the second part because I know they shit is about to hit the fan and I’m all for the happy ever after if they ever get it now.
September 4, 2023
Kane's story was another example of Talena's gift of writing. It was different than her other stories as it included several moments I did not expect! Although Kane and Serenity take different paths in life their love was strong. Serenity takes a job to pursue an opportunity that takes her away from Kane. When they connect again they pick up as if no time has passed but Serenity is keeping a big secret. The writing is so good you felt Kane's pain and betrayal. Just when it appears he and Serenity have a path forward we are given an unexpected twist at the end that has me on edge waiting for conclusion! You will also fall in love with supporting characters Zane and Jr. I hope Zane get's his own story. Now I patiently wait for more of Kane's story.....
February 19, 2024
Deep Love
WTH JUST HAPPENED??????? I just flipped my kindle because what did I just encounter at the end of this book. I mean I knew the Santiago’s was gonna have to get involved with Aliya and Pablo’s shit when I realized that’s who her soon to be husband is but sis…….. I never expected it to be at this magnitude. It’s bad enough Serenity and Kane ran my pressure up and here you come adding Aliya, Pablo AND Zane to the mix. WHEW!!!! This was good. I mean real good. You can write tf outta some stories and you can end tf outta them too with bombs and cliff hangers. Thank God Part 2 is already available cause you got me over looking like a meme. I thought Elijah and Kehlani story had me but this a close second sis. ⭐️🔥⭐️🔥⭐️
WTH JUST HAPPENED??????? I just flipped my kindle because what did I just encounter at the end of this book. I mean I knew the Santiago’s was gonna have to get involved with Aliya and Pablo’s shit when I realized that’s who her soon to be husband is but sis…….. I never expected it to be at this magnitude. It’s bad enough Serenity and Kane ran my pressure up and here you come adding Aliya, Pablo AND Zane to the mix. WHEW!!!! This was good. I mean real good. You can write tf outta some stories and you can end tf outta them too with bombs and cliff hangers. Thank God Part 2 is already available cause you got me over looking like a meme. I thought Elijah and Kehlani story had me but this a close second sis. ⭐️🔥⭐️🔥⭐️
September 15, 2023
Now Mrs. Tillman!!!
Now, Talena know she my girl and can do no wrong in my eyes but THIS RIGHT HERE! That cliffhanger tore me worse than Rescued by a Savage lol but honestly I loved this. I love seeing her growth as a writer for one! Love when you can take the old and make it better than new.
Kane…idkkk that’s my man lmaooo I wish he was more expressive with his feelings in the beginning but when its not taught…ya know…
And Serenity!! Don’t make me mad girl Lmao but I understood her reasoning! Protect you at all costs. I’m glad they found their way back to each other…lets just see if it can stand the test. Give us part twooo Talenaaaa!!
Now, Talena know she my girl and can do no wrong in my eyes but THIS RIGHT HERE! That cliffhanger tore me worse than Rescued by a Savage lol but honestly I loved this. I love seeing her growth as a writer for one! Love when you can take the old and make it better than new.
Kane…idkkk that’s my man lmaooo I wish he was more expressive with his feelings in the beginning but when its not taught…ya know…
And Serenity!! Don’t make me mad girl Lmao but I understood her reasoning! Protect you at all costs. I’m glad they found their way back to each other…lets just see if it can stand the test. Give us part twooo Talenaaaa!!
September 21, 2023
My, my, my!
Wow what an ending! This book had me from the first page. My first time reading this author and I'm advising that if you haven't read this book or don't know anything about this author, I would advise you to come check her out.
I love the chemistry and love that Kane and Serenity share, makes think of my husband and I's relationship! The support they both have for each other despite the breakup, distance, and sacrifice that both of them had to endure. So disappointed in Zane because now they have deal with more problems then need be. Hope part 2 is coming really soon because if not my blood pressure is going to unstable!
Wow what an ending! This book had me from the first page. My first time reading this author and I'm advising that if you haven't read this book or don't know anything about this author, I would advise you to come check her out.
I love the chemistry and love that Kane and Serenity share, makes think of my husband and I's relationship! The support they both have for each other despite the breakup, distance, and sacrifice that both of them had to endure. So disappointed in Zane because now they have deal with more problems then need be. Hope part 2 is coming really soon because if not my blood pressure is going to unstable!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews