The Forever She Deserves

Black Summer Island Series #3

by Lauren Lacey

A spicy, heartfelt vacation romance novella

Vivian St. Claire grew up in a world of high expectations shaped by her wealthy, conservative family. Despite this, her rebellious spirit led her to marry young. Four years after her husband's passing, Vivian believes her best days are behind her, but her best friends disagree.

They convince her to take a chance to rediscover herself on Black Summer Island, where Vivian's past and future collide when she reunites with Kade Kingston, her childhood sweetheart. With Kade's return, Vivian is faced with the possibility of a new forever. Is she ready to embrace a new life, or will she continue to hold on to the life she thought she'd have?

Join Vivian and her friends as they discover love on Black Summer Island.

Genres: African American Romance

149 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 20, 2024

About the author

I'm a romance author originally from Savannah, Georgia, now living in Atlanta with my husband and children. With a B.A. in English from Armstrong Atlanta State University and an M.A. from Southern New Hampshire University, I transitioned from writing poetry to crafting love stories that mirror my Southern heritage as a woman, wife, and mother. My stories delve into themes of love and commitment, often against a backdrop of personal and societal challenges.

Aside from writing, I am deeply committed to my family. I enjoy coaching my kids’ soccer teams, traveling, and watching movies at home on a Friday night. I credit my close-knit family and supportive readers for inspiring me to continue writing stories that resonate on a personal level. As an indie author, my narratives offer a sincere exploration of human emotions, underscoring the importance of love, resilience, and the beauty found in overcoming adversity.

Book series list:

Love in Beverly Mills

Black Summer Island


Feel free to message me or get to know me better through social media. I do respond! :)

Instagram

Tik Tok

Facebook

Subscribe to my newsletter

Reviews

[BrownBookNerd · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book did not disappoint. I couldn’t wait to get to Viv & Kade’s story. We met them in the previous books but it seemed to me like their backstory was a little mysterious when it was mentioned in book 1&2. I love black love, black excellence, and reading about black women being loved and cared for properly. The title of this book is so fitting because Vivian mostly definitely got the forever she deserves (they both did) I’m so happy that Kade & Viv found their way back to each other, especially after they both went through so much in their past. I love the entire Black Summer Island crew. Their sisterhood/brotherhood is everything. I’m sad this is the final book in this series. These characters will stay with me forever.

[Kay Vee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I appreciate the privilege to navigate through Lauren Lacey’s work with an ARC ecopy of this book. A beautifully written story that depicts affection, adoration, and healing in a short read. One thing Lauren Lacey definitely accomplished with this piece was conveying the love and affection of Kade Kingston and Vivian St.Claire. Although, being a St.Claire is a tedious task Vivian finds her footing when she reunites with her first love Kade.

[Ericka Cooper · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW! Wow… what a great second chance at love story. Vivian and Kade have history, yet the sparks have never died and they are rediscovering their passion and love once again.

Lauren Lacey has a knack for making the readers feel the emotions of her characters. I couldn’t put the book down.

[Tamika Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW
This is another AMAZING 5 Star Novella by Lauren Lacey
The final installment of The Black Summer Island novella series, The Forever She Deserves did not disappoint at all, instead it makes me sad that the series is ending. I really need more of Evie and Kobe, Marlowe and Kai, and Vivian and Kade. Every book in this novella series was amazing but this was by far the best of the series. Novellas are short and sometimes leave me hanging, but Lauren Lacey can write a Black love story, draped in black excellence that fills you with all the emotions like no body’s business.
This book tackles:
• Second Chance Love
• Positive Portrayal of Black Excellence
• Sisterhood and Brotherhood bonds
• Loss of a spouse
• Family Secrets
I am not a crier when it comes to books. There have only been about 3 books that have taken me there, but I swear I shed a tear with this book. My emotions were all tangled up into each of the books in this series but especially in this one.
The character development leading up to this book was great as you got a chance to meet Viv and Kade in the first 2 books of the series. I didn’t know what the tension was between them in book two, but this final installment brought it all together. I am so happy Vivian was able to get her happily ever after. She mothered the others all throughout their friendship and made sure everyone else was ok, so I am so happy she is ok now as well. I am not done with these Kingston brothers or this amazing bond between these sister friends so I will be sitting in tip toed expectation of what’s to come from Lauren Lacey.

If you want to see Black love portrayed in a positive light with a little spice check out this series.

Thank you Author Lauren Lacey and BookFunnel for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. This was a pleasure.

[Mary Mimi Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vivian and Kade


This was beautiful second chance romance. The third installment of the Black Summer Island Series. If you read the first two we were introduced to Viv and Kade and we were made aware there was some history there.
Kade is a divorcee with a two boys. Who was extradited from the island and his family . Due to some family issues. He built a successful architectural firm but he was still not fully happy he was missing the girl he always loved .
Viv St Claire is widower and we are not gonna take anything away from Malcom you need to read the book to read the back story.
I loved watching the two fall back in love it was done so well. The found family is so beautiful everyone just came together organically. The brothers and friends are beautiful. I love the Kingstons!

[Kieshawnda (Kieshlovestoread) · Rating 4 out of 5]

**ARC Review**

We are back on Black Summer Island, but this time, we get to see what has been going on with Vivian in Kade and what happened in the past. Vivian St. Claire and Kade were so cute together. I love reading about couples finding love in their 30's, and making it a second chance romance, and I eat it up every time.

I loved seeing Vivian come back into her own and rediscover who she is past the grief. Kade was everything you could want in an MMC. He wasn't letting Vivian get away a second time. He was so intentional and patient with her. Also loved how their kids loved each other and them. The third book was a big lovefest with all three couples, and I enjoyed it so much. I am going to miss this found family.
 

 

[Mysia · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW
C 7
A 7
W 6
P 6
I 7
L 8
E 8

The Forever She Deserves is a spicy, second-chance romance novella that follows Vivian St. Claire and Kade Kingston. Billionaire St. Claire has had a lovely life- an amazing family, a beautiful support system, and wealth beyond her dreams- but she has missed a critical piece in her first love, Kade. After reconnecting, Viv tries to keep Kade at arm's length but finds herself falling for the man she has kept a huge secret from for 18 years. Will they last once the beans are spilled?

I enjoyed this little novella. The writing reads like a diary at first, but once I got used to this, I was able to really enjoy the story. I love seeing Black wealth and these stories had more spice that some of the full-size novels I've read. This is my first read from the series, and I didn't feel like I missed anything major. That said, I liked this a lot and would recommend this series, this book, and this author.

[southern_bookbabe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to the author Lauren Lacey for this gifted copy! I enjoyed the mature love story of Vivian and Kade! They both experienced so much love and loss over the years and deserved their FOREVER TOGETHER. This story about picking up the pieces after loss and the grieving process that comes along with it. Viv lost sooooo many things in her life that she deserved her HEA with her FOREVER LOVE Mr. Kade Kingston, who overcame plenty obstacles of his own 🥰 This Black Summer Island series was filled with Black excellence, Black billionaires, Black love, sisterhood, and brotherly love!! Thank you Lauren for showcasing these positive images and representation!

[Books & Locs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vivian and Kade have both been through so much and and lost so much however the stars aligned for them to find each other again 🥰🥰 such a beautiful couple ! I feel they were meant to be but they had figure themselves out before they became one again! Like the last two books, I just love the sisterhood and brotherhood displayed in this series! They are all so loving and supportive of each other despite their struggles! I’m sad to see this series end 😫! This is a Must READ!

[Erika Andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️- ARC Review :
The Forever She Deserves - Lauren Lacey

Pub Date: 4/20/2024

Thank you so much @laurenlacey for sending me this advance copy of this story!!

I’ll start by saying this is my first read in The Black Summer Island series but I definitely have to go read the first two stories now! This story was so stinking cute!

In this story we meet Vivian St. Claire, a widow who has recently reconnected with her first love, Kade Kingston. Vivian is rediscovering herself after the death of her husband and instead of sitting in her grief she’s decided to live life on her own terms. Kade Kingston has been living in the aftermath of being the exiled son and after reconnecting with Vivian, decides he won’t let the past dictate his future!

Listen yall. I really enjoyed this story! It had some of my favorite tropes and my absolute favorite of second chance romance 😩 the billionaire aspect was just a cherry on top. Baby I love rich black people 🤷🏽‍♀️😂 I really loved how Lauren was able to pack such a complex story in 160 pages 😩 Vivian had been so scared to be herself after so many traumatic events in her life, when she finally told her truth her life only took a turn for the better! And Kade. Whew chile! The things he went through! I wanted to seriously reach out and hug both of them. That term the truth shall set you free is so true!! I loved the family aspect, the way their families blended so seamlessly and more importantly the idea of real family reconciliation. Forgiveness is a hard road but often needed to move on. I kept thinking man I would really enjoy a full book but truthfully it wasn’t needed. Lauren wrote a great read and every question was answered!

I love novellas because sometimes you don’t need 300-400 pages to get the point. A great short read is all you need sometimes! Make sure yall give this one a read ✌🏾❤️

[Imani · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

✨ ARC Review ✨

I received this book as an ARC and it was such a beautiful and emotional journey to read!! I think the author did an exceptional job captivating the journey of grief and how one learns how to rediscover oneself, live life and love once again after various forms of loss. It was so refreshing to read about wealthy black characters and I loved how both Vivian and Kade’s cultures were imbedded within the story.

Viv and Kaden’s second chance romance really captivates your heart and reminds you how love will always find its way back to you. The romance was romancing (💗), the plot was plotting (🤯) , and the spice was spicing (🌶️). All the things I love! Lol. I was locked in from the first page until the very end.

The only challenge I had with reading this novella was that beginning of the story felt a bit too fast paced, almost as if we were being rushed to get to the middle of the story line. I also found myself wishing the story was longeeer! I’m excited to read the other novella’s by this author and would definitely recommend this book if you’re wanting a short read that will touch your heart and leave you feeling empowered as a woman and encouraged in love.

[J · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 good palate cleanser, easy quick read , spicy 🥵 , and I loved Kades corny sweet dad vibes

[India Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

*ARC REVIEW*

I am a sucka for a black romance story and let me tell you Lauren Lacey got this right! I shed a few tears (which is normal for me 😂) however if you’re looking for a book that displays a healthy second chance love without the toxicity this is the book for you!! I love the fact that Vivian gave herself permission to love and be loved again. So many times we read romance books where the women have the happy ending but she’s gone through so much to get it. Now grant it Viv and Kade both went through their own traumas at an early age but when they got it right, they got it RIGHT! I love that for them. I love the sister-friend relationships and the brotherhood in this story, we need more of this ☺️

This is one that I will definitely recommend to those who may be questioning or dealing with guilt, shame or the fear of being judged by others of others when it comes to dating after loss.

Some of my favorite quotes from the book were
- “ Life doesn’t always go according to our plan, but it does follow the paths we’re meant to walk”

- “ My peace is as vital as oxygen because when I have peace, I tend to breathe easier, smile more often, and rejoice, even in the midst of heartache”.
- “My life isn’t perfect but it’s a peaceful balance that I’ve worked hard for”.

Author Lauren thank you for allowing me to receive an ARC copy you definitely did your big one with this! I’m excited for what’s next 🩷

#trauma
#billionaire
#toxicparents
#secondchancelove
#blackromance

[Gabrielle Woodland · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

I reached out to the author directly to compliment her book covers and she actually shipped the first 2 books to me! Super sweet, but my goodness these short reads are SPICY! I had so much fun reading about Evie and Marlowe.

So, I couldn't wait to read this book. I loved it! Vivian and Kade were meant to be. She is truly his wildflower.

She's officially one of my new auto buy authors

[C.C. Gibson · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW
5/5 STORY FOR ME!

PAPA AND MOMMA BEAR ARE BACK IN ACTION AND STRONGER THEN EVER! YALL NEED TO CHECK THIS OUT! I’m have to say sorry to Marlowe and Kai. (I love y’all but your other brother won this one.) ARGUE WITH SOMEONE ELSE I SAID WHAT I SAID! THOSE TWO DON’T HAVE SPARKLES THEY GOT FLAMES BABY! And I stay on it. I did have my laughs, but the most important part is that they got a happy ever after just right there on Black Summer Island! Between the hard ships and reconnection, they deserve that top spot from me. Go out and enjoy yourself Kade and Vivian.

[Shalida Jacobs · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️ARC Review ⭐️
I received an e-book ARC. The Forever She Deserves is the 3rd installment of the Black Summer Island series. Some content/trigger warnings:
⛔️ DV (domestic violence)
⛔️abortion
⛔️child abuse
⛔️cancer
This is a second chance romance about childhood sweethearts Kade Kingston and Vivian St. Clair, and the book is from a dual POV. I wanted to love this book so much. And it started out quite promising. It sounded more grown up and realistic. But alot of the issues I had with the first two books arose in this book. At times it felt very wordy—just run on inner monologues. And at times it felt as if the characters were “reading the mind” of the other. These parts almost felt/sounded like 3rd person narration. It felt rushed at times. Like instead giving us dialogue, it gave one to two sentences but then told us something like ‘the dinner continued on with great conversation and laughs.’ Ok well I wanna what was so funny! Let me in on the conversation lol

WHAT I ACTUALLY ENJOYED💕
-black excellence
-black love
-blended family
-successful/positive role models
-amazingly supportive friend group
-amazingly supportive siblings
-the conversations between the Viv and her friends, and Kade and his brothers was great—there just wasn’t enough! I wanted more dialogue bc they were great together!
-I REALLY loved the flashback of Vivian and Kade’s childhood and how their relationship formed. To be honest it was the best part and I felt it was very well written. And it brought me to tears 😭 there were hints in book one and book two about a conflict in Kade and Vivian’s past and the flashback definitely helps reveal the secrets they have both been keeping for 18 years. It honestly saved the book for me.

[Natashia Crawford · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Forever She Deserves- Lauren Lacey

✨ARC REVIEW✨
I was able to read an advanced copy of this novella in exchange of my honest feedback

Rating: Enjoyed it

Thoughts- I loved Kade and Viv. They were able to get their second chance at happiness and I’m all for it. One thing I loved about this was that even though this was a novella and things happened pretty quickly, they were already friends prior. So I wasn’t in “disbelief” of their timeline since they already had chemistry and history.

Another thing I loved about this was the “found family”. The children that each had developed a bond with the adults and that was to be admired. This is something I can relate too as I have a blended family as well. It’s important that all children involved are loved and feel safe. Viv’s children loved Kade and vice versa. It was a beautiful situation.

Viv’s parents really pissed me off. That’s all about that.

I enjoyed this story a lot and I definitely recommend this to be read along with the others in the series.

Thank you for the opportunity to read this ARC!

[Deshda's · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌴 Book Review 🌴

The Forever She Deserve
By: Lauren Lacey

✨ Second Chance Love
✨Billionaire/Millionaire
✨Family Secrets

Vivian and Kade maneuvered through so many obstacles to finally return to what ultimately was the love they both deserved. The third installment of the Black Summer Island series did not disappoint. I binge read this series & these were my first time reading Lacey’s work. Lacey grabbed me by my collar and had me riding this roller coaster. The Kingston brothers are a dream and Mahogany’s Angels are a heartwarming reminder of what sisterhoo/friendship should be.

This third novella is a story of forgiveness, redemption, & healing. It is a quick read but it is well rounded and you will be satisfied. Oh, and the spice is spicy 🥵. (ARC REVIEW: Thank you Lauren Lacey & BookFunnel for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. This was amazing 🤩)

[Jacquie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the perfect end to the BSI series! Second chance romance is always a winner for me but this one was trying to make me thug cry!

I thought I guessed the big secret early on but OMG was I wrong! That in itself scored points for me because I didn’t see it coming. I felt so bad for Viv. Like I really felt so attached to her and Kade’s future. I love how their family blended, the house on proper north, their dates. The background with Malcolm was really good to me too. It wasn’t the sad tale of unrequited love I was expecting. Their family felt really pure and the kids love for Kade was a testament to Malcolm. I just really enjoyed it.

I was so attached to everyone in the series and I love how everyone’s story wrapped up. The found family vibes, the healing, the whimsical feel of the island. I’d recommend giving it a read!

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

💎💎 ARC REVIEW 💎💎
This review has no spoilers

🌶️🌶️

I loved everything about this book.. Viv and Kade deserve nothing but the best love and life.. It takes a lot for me to cry when reading a book.. but the way my emotions and heart was wrapped up in these characters and their story.. Whew.. this is a MUST READ.. I’ve enjoyed this series so much.. so much.. I can’t wait to introduce my grandma to Viv and Kade.. she loves Evie, Kobe, Marlowe, Kai and ma Kingston..

Preorder on Amazon NOW
release date: 04/20/2024

👑 Every King deserves his Queen 👑

#blacksummerisland
#secondchancerance
#firstlove
#wildflower
#billionairefmc
#connamonrollmmc
#childhoodfriends
#bookstagram
#shortreads
#blackromance

[Raylin Weathersby · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the year of second chance (especially with Nelly and Ashanti 👌😁) this is book was perfect! While reading the first two books, I always find myself wondering what happened to Vivian and Kade love story. To hear their story, the heartache and pain they both experienced to finally find their way back to each other *my heart*
Kade was so understanding especially hearing Vivian secret she kept from him all these years.
I also love the found family dynamics! To see Evie, Kobe, Marlowe and Kai again was so exciting. I love how Evie and Marlowe pregnant selves were trying to meddle in-the relationship lol. Overall this was a good read! I def recommend!
(Y’all it’s always hard for me to make a review without spoilers 😭)

[Shanay · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review

She is his wildflower that got away, She has a secret she's been harboring for over 18 years... He is her first love, that he never stopped thinking about.

When their paths cross again it leads to a beautifully written second chance romance.

This is the 3rd book in a series of novellas. With all of them being under 200 pages, I flew through the series and enjoyed every minute.

This story of Vivian and Kade is probably my favorite and ever had me in tears a few times! Not only is it a romance the series also shares the importance of friendships, family and overcoming trauma.

lauren lacey hit these novellas out of the park with these beautiful stories of black love!

Run, don't walk, to go get these books on your shelves, you won't regret it.

[TheLITZone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author never disappoints! This story, like the others go through love, hurt, loss, family, friendship and the struggles of life. Each character can be related to in multiple ways and you visualize the entire book. These books have been an experience like no other from the main characters, to the family struggles, to friendship struggles, to grief/loss. I absolutely loved this book and would recommend this for anyone who is need of learning to let go, be free, and find your truest self. While I’m sad this is the final book in the Black Summer Island series, I’m looking forward to what’s next!

[Ranisha Davis · Rating 4 out of 5]

📚 Tid Bits: 👇🏽
Childhood friends 👧🏽🧒🏽
Second Chance Romance 🫶🏽
Widowed Female Character 🥲
Divorced Male Character 🫠
Billionaire Female 💰
Millionaire Male 🤑
Lots of spicy 🥵🌶️
Dual POV 👩🏽‍🦰🧑🏾‍🦰

Yall… I ate this 150 page novella up!!! It was so good. The story got to the point quick. The main characters have 🤑. The spice level was •chef kiss•. The dual point of view was great. I was definitely in my feels, laughing, smiling hard and all while reading this novella. Girl, I even notated in my kindle and I dont typically do that!! 🤭🤣 I’ll definitely be reading more from this author as this is the first book I’ve read from her.

[Miranda Creed · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book feels like a warm hug! This author really knows how to write a fun story while also providing representation for difficult topics that are especially not always discussed within the black community. I absolutely loved how the book further explored the relationship between the Kingston brothers and allowed for them to be open and vulnerable with each other. Meanwhile, I felt that we were truly on a journey of seeing Vivian being born again. I loved seeing her not only heal but blossom in the arms of the incredibly swoon worthy and sensitive Mr. Kade Kingston! This is truly the perfect ending to the whirlwind that is the Black Summer Island series.

[Literature · Rating 3 out of 5]

Vacation love blossoming into forever. The Forever Se Deserves follows Vivian as she navigates life as a widowed mom of 3. She reconnects with her first love (Kade) whom she met as a young girl during vacation on Black Summer Island. Both of them have held onto feelings over the course of the years and are wondering was it just puppy love or can they make this work in the real world. This book was overall lighthearted and easy to read with just the right amount of spice. I definitely should've read this book while laid on the beach because it does put you in that state of mind. 3 stars, easy to follow, sweet and fun.

[Tiffany Clark · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the first novel I've read by Lauren Lacey and I truly enjoyed it. I didn't realize it was part of a series and I kind of wished I read the first two before this one, but it can also be read as a standalone. Vivian and Kade have such a wonderful love story. I appreciate that it's not the typical fall in love story. They both had demons and mistakes in their past that they had to confront with one another to truly come together as one. I'll admit I am a sucker for a love story, but even with the hardships it felt a little too perfect for me. Overall I enjoyed the read and I'll definitely be checking out the stories of the other two brothers.

[Diane Rembert · Rating 5 out of 5]

After the loss of her husband, Vivian St. Claire's life consist of raising her children, PTA meetings and planning social events in the Atlanta area. When her sister/girlfriend gets married on Black Summer Island, she reconnects with her first love, Kade Kingston, a single dad that is considered the Black sheep of the family. After several coffee dates, they decide to make it official and travel back to the island where it all began, for another family celebration.

What happens next, is nothing short of magical!

The Black Summer Island series by @thelaurenlacey is the perfect read for the season. These characters will stay with you long after you've finished reading.

[A Joseph · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review

I read all three books this weekend and Lauren definitely did her thing! I cried, I laughed, I gasped, and I screamed. The Forever She Deserves was AMAZING! Vivian and Kade went through so much to ultimately get right back to where they started with so much more growth. Vivian's backstory and even Kade's shows how strong they are and ultimately it all boiled down to being "home." Home isn't a place to these two, it's the person with whom they find peace within. Black Summer Island seems to just have something about it where one can find love and create new beginnings.

[Janice · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love a good love story!!

This book was a testament to the intricacies of life!! Vivian & Kade were meant to be together yet life separated them (moreso their parents). However, when a person is for you, even if it’s not at the time you want them, they are for you!! This story proved that if it’s meant to be, it will be!! I cried because I love that after all the hurt and pain they both went through, they got their happily ever after!! Also, I don’t wanna forget Malcolm - he was a stand up guy forreal!