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Secure in the Arms of a Thug
Syre Reign has always been seen as the family screw up. Wherever he goes, his reputation as a hothead with repeated run ins with the law precedes him. From a young age, Delilah Gold has groomed her sons and nephews to take over her online empire. Everyone has a place in the family business, even Syre as the head of security. Now that Delilah is retiring soon, she sets a plan in motion to merge her family dynasty with the infamous Black family through a marriage of convenience.
Royelle Jacobs has spent the past five years in prison thanks to her boyfriend Abel. Now that she’s out of prison, she can’t seem to catch a break. When an old friend offers her a job at the high-profile engagement party of Bishop Reign, Royelle seizes the opportunity. After taking on a job and biting off more than she can chew, Royelle races out of the party and runs into bad boy Syre Reign. Neither of them are interested in staying at the stuffy party and instead run off to Vegas for a night of fun.
After a drunken night in Vegas, Royelle and Syre wake up to more issues than their impromptu wedding ceremony. Somebody has taken out a hit on Syre’s closest family members. Now he must juggle his new wife and finding out who wants to kill his brother. In a bittersweet story of love and loss, Syre and Royelle form an unbreakable bond. Can their unforgettable love story last forever? Find out in Secure in the Arms of a Thug.
Royelle Jacobs has spent the past five years in prison thanks to her boyfriend Abel. Now that she’s out of prison, she can’t seem to catch a break. When an old friend offers her a job at the high-profile engagement party of Bishop Reign, Royelle seizes the opportunity. After taking on a job and biting off more than she can chew, Royelle races out of the party and runs into bad boy Syre Reign. Neither of them are interested in staying at the stuffy party and instead run off to Vegas for a night of fun.
After a drunken night in Vegas, Royelle and Syre wake up to more issues than their impromptu wedding ceremony. Somebody has taken out a hit on Syre’s closest family members. Now he must juggle his new wife and finding out who wants to kill his brother. In a bittersweet story of love and loss, Syre and Royelle form an unbreakable bond. Can their unforgettable love story last forever? Find out in Secure in the Arms of a Thug.
228 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 2, 2024
1047 people are currently reading
375 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
October 23, 2024
Tatum ma’am, you ain’t have to snatch my damn breath like that and say more later! Are you for real? 👀
Royelle got a bum rap from the beginning, between her parents being locked up, her lazy, greedy aunt who only took care of her for the check, and her nothing ass boyfriend. Royelle, I know you were young, but you had some street smarts, why did you let Abel drag you down like that? Ugghh… then that ish that happened after you got out, was straight trash! 😤
Syre the family f up, was living his life causing trouble, until he bumps into a beautiful woman at his brother’s engagement party. They jet off to Vegas, have a wild night, and he wakes up to find out the devastating news about his family. Stepping up to protect his family, and bond with his new wife, is a struggle but he manages. Syre and Royelle quickly bond and become a strong team in a short period of time.
There are some things in this story that seem very suspect to me. Royelle, I know you "knew" Layken, but after seeing how she is living now, you ain't think to ask more questions about how she making her money? Why agree to help when it didn't align with your morals? 👀 Why was Bishop's fiancé okay with not seeing him while he was recuperating? Is she involved in what happened? With security that tight how were foes able to get at Aunt Delilah, and Bishop anyway?
Now, the details that Layken revealed blew my mind! What???? 🤯 Oh, hell! Why did she get Royelle involved like that? How is this going to play out? Will she tell Syre? Then Abel showing up lets more air out of her balloon, and he is showing his ass too! Will she make it out of this mess? Tatum, you wrong as hell for leaving us hanging like this! 🤬 But I gotta know what happens.
Royelle got a bum rap from the beginning, between her parents being locked up, her lazy, greedy aunt who only took care of her for the check, and her nothing ass boyfriend. Royelle, I know you were young, but you had some street smarts, why did you let Abel drag you down like that? Ugghh… then that ish that happened after you got out, was straight trash! 😤
Syre the family f up, was living his life causing trouble, until he bumps into a beautiful woman at his brother’s engagement party. They jet off to Vegas, have a wild night, and he wakes up to find out the devastating news about his family. Stepping up to protect his family, and bond with his new wife, is a struggle but he manages. Syre and Royelle quickly bond and become a strong team in a short period of time.
There are some things in this story that seem very suspect to me. Royelle, I know you "knew" Layken, but after seeing how she is living now, you ain't think to ask more questions about how she making her money? Why agree to help when it didn't align with your morals? 👀 Why was Bishop's fiancé okay with not seeing him while he was recuperating? Is she involved in what happened? With security that tight how were foes able to get at Aunt Delilah, and Bishop anyway?
Now, the details that Layken revealed blew my mind! What???? 🤯 Oh, hell! Why did she get Royelle involved like that? How is this going to play out? Will she tell Syre? Then Abel showing up lets more air out of her balloon, and he is showing his ass too! Will she make it out of this mess? Tatum, you wrong as hell for leaving us hanging like this! 🤬 But I gotta know what happens.
February 18, 2025
I ate this book UP!
I originally wanted to read "Psalm" by Tatum James, but the first page said there were other books before it, so I have to read them in order!
This is fast-paced, good storyline, I enjoyed the characters and their background stories, and I fell in love with Royelle and Syre 🔥❤️
I really fell for their instant love and their flirty, teasing banter. Royelle felt like a down to earth homegirl, and Syre is a King for sure.
🏃♀️ RUNNING 2 START BOOK 2 🏃♀️💨💨💨
I originally wanted to read "Psalm" by Tatum James, but the first page said there were other books before it, so I have to read them in order!
This is fast-paced, good storyline, I enjoyed the characters and their background stories, and I fell in love with Royelle and Syre 🔥❤️
I really fell for their instant love and their flirty, teasing banter. Royelle felt like a down to earth homegirl, and Syre is a King for sure.
🏃♀️ RUNNING 2 START BOOK 2 🏃♀️💨💨💨
October 11, 2024
running to book 2!
4.5✨this was so good; the ending had me shook up! I am a sucker for when the FMC is getting back on her feet and for Royelle, she completed a bid for her man and was hit with the ultimate betrayal once she was released. Syre was just what Elle needed!
4.5✨this was so good; the ending had me shook up! I am a sucker for when the FMC is getting back on her feet and for Royelle, she completed a bid for her man and was hit with the ultimate betrayal once she was released. Syre was just what Elle needed!
November 16, 2024
Secure... this book felt anything but
This was a wild ride.
No one asked the right questions.
Syre never moved like he was a boss.
My girl Elle stayed eating, she had time to make up for.
A lot happened, but also, there were missing parts. Some of it didn't add up.
This was a wild ride.
No one asked the right questions.
Syre never moved like he was a boss.
My girl Elle stayed eating, she had time to make up for.
A lot happened, but also, there were missing parts. Some of it didn't add up.
August 17, 2024
Slow Burn and the Cliffhanger !!!!
So we are introduced to Royelle and Syre in individual storylines until they meet and fly to Vegas.
Royelle in the beginning did some time due to some situations that her boyfriend of the time failed to help her out of. Once home the relationship she thought had would pick up where it left off only to find out something’s him and her family didn’t tell her.
Syre is a hothead, he’s one to act first ask questions later. He’s family’s go to make things shake.
These two meet a party where Syre is instantly smitten by Royelle and they fly to Vegas on a whelm under the influence. Some other stuff is gonna happen that’s gonna stress you. I could keep gonna but what good is that when you need to read the damn book to be shocked like I was!!!! 😂
So we are introduced to Royelle and Syre in individual storylines until they meet and fly to Vegas.
Royelle in the beginning did some time due to some situations that her boyfriend of the time failed to help her out of. Once home the relationship she thought had would pick up where it left off only to find out something’s him and her family didn’t tell her.
Syre is a hothead, he’s one to act first ask questions later. He’s family’s go to make things shake.
These two meet a party where Syre is instantly smitten by Royelle and they fly to Vegas on a whelm under the influence. Some other stuff is gonna happen that’s gonna stress you. I could keep gonna but what good is that when you need to read the damn book to be shocked like I was!!!! 😂
May 5, 2024
Royelle was the definition of a Ryder. Throw Auntie from the nearest train.
Syre really was action first think later type of guy. Wouldn't have taken him as a heart on his sleeve type dude until his birth story was revealed.
Aunt Delilah had a house full and wanted them all to do well.in life
There's a special spot in the pit for Able and Rachel. The Nerve!
Like this ending whoa, will be waiting on Part 2!
Syre really was action first think later type of guy. Wouldn't have taken him as a heart on his sleeve type dude until his birth story was revealed.
Aunt Delilah had a house full and wanted them all to do well.in life
There's a special spot in the pit for Able and Rachel. The Nerve!
Like this ending whoa, will be waiting on Part 2!
May 18, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Whew… page 1 I was all in and this continued until about 85% and then things became meh.
Not so much that I don’t want to read the conclusion. I certainly do. I need everyone to reap what they sowed. I’m curious about who’s behind all of this, it’s certainly not Layken.
I’m interested in how the repair will happen. I have an inkling of who I think the puppet master is, but I have to wait until June 3rd to find out.
Good read.
Whew… page 1 I was all in and this continued until about 85% and then things became meh.
Not so much that I don’t want to read the conclusion. I certainly do. I need everyone to reap what they sowed. I’m curious about who’s behind all of this, it’s certainly not Layken.
I’m interested in how the repair will happen. I have an inkling of who I think the puppet master is, but I have to wait until June 3rd to find out.
Good read.
November 1, 2024
didn’t hold my attention
The storyline and plot was good but it felt like a lot of filler in this book. Pages and pages of thinking where no one was talking. I also felt like the plot could have been written better. The grammar was great, I like the characters I definitely recommend the book, tho it wasn’t for me personally I feel others would really enjoy this series. Happy reading.
The storyline and plot was good but it felt like a lot of filler in this book. Pages and pages of thinking where no one was talking. I also felt like the plot could have been written better. The grammar was great, I like the characters I definitely recommend the book, tho it wasn’t for me personally I feel others would really enjoy this series. Happy reading.
October 20, 2024
You do a bid for your man, thinking he’s your man BUT he’s really just an ain’t shyt niggah. Royelle did 5 years gets out only to realize the people who should have been there were just selfish ssa muthphuckers. Abel deserves to get dragged for being the bih ssa niggah that he is.
Royelle ends up crossing paths with her friend Linc and she tells her how she’s making money and how she can put her on. Well, Royelle goes to help her with a job and while there she meets Syre. They leave the party and end up in Vegas and you know the saying what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. Well a lot comes home from Vegas.
Syre leaves Royelle in Vegas to go back home to a family emergency. There he finds out someone has ordered hits on some of his family members and he’s trying to find out who and what is going on. Royelle comes back and he wants her with him to keep her safe. Fast forward Royelle is living with Syre and Linc is back in town. When Linc finds out just how close Syre and Royelle are, everything hits the fan and it’s all bad.
Only Tatum could give the ending that she gave us. The stress is REAL and I’m so hurt for Royelle. I can only imagine what’s about to go down in book 2. This was a great read. Don’t miss out.
Stamped,
The Urban Fiction Librarian
Royelle ends up crossing paths with her friend Linc and she tells her how she’s making money and how she can put her on. Well, Royelle goes to help her with a job and while there she meets Syre. They leave the party and end up in Vegas and you know the saying what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. Well a lot comes home from Vegas.
Syre leaves Royelle in Vegas to go back home to a family emergency. There he finds out someone has ordered hits on some of his family members and he’s trying to find out who and what is going on. Royelle comes back and he wants her with him to keep her safe. Fast forward Royelle is living with Syre and Linc is back in town. When Linc finds out just how close Syre and Royelle are, everything hits the fan and it’s all bad.
Only Tatum could give the ending that she gave us. The stress is REAL and I’m so hurt for Royelle. I can only imagine what’s about to go down in book 2. This was a great read. Don’t miss out.
Stamped,
The Urban Fiction Librarian
May 30, 2024
Hanging on....
Ms. James, you have done it again. I feel like the man that hangs in the hangman game. I have so many unanswered questions that I want answers to. The first is how is Syre going to handle the truth behind the hit on his family. The second one is whether Royelle and Syre make it through the next storm that will be presented to them. And finally, please tell me that Royelle is going to get a happily ever after ending after the cards of life that have been dealt to her. I have to say I love how quickly Syre became Royelle's provider, protector, and peacekeeper. He made sure that once he took those vows with her he was 100% in it to win it. Royelle has been going through a catastrophic chain of events in her life. Abel and Rachel were dead wrong in what they did to her. I am contemplating that Royelle will get the last laugh. She is going to have a full and happy life as Syre's wife. Syre's love for his aunt/mom and his brothers runs deep. He has his down moments but he loves his family with all of his heart.
Ladies and gents, this is another magnificent masterpiece that will leave you on the edge of your seat literally. I am anxious to read the next installment in this series. Syre is coming hard for Royelle, so I am going to buckle up and enjoy the ride.
Ms. James, you have done it again. I feel like the man that hangs in the hangman game. I have so many unanswered questions that I want answers to. The first is how is Syre going to handle the truth behind the hit on his family. The second one is whether Royelle and Syre make it through the next storm that will be presented to them. And finally, please tell me that Royelle is going to get a happily ever after ending after the cards of life that have been dealt to her. I have to say I love how quickly Syre became Royelle's provider, protector, and peacekeeper. He made sure that once he took those vows with her he was 100% in it to win it. Royelle has been going through a catastrophic chain of events in her life. Abel and Rachel were dead wrong in what they did to her. I am contemplating that Royelle will get the last laugh. She is going to have a full and happy life as Syre's wife. Syre's love for his aunt/mom and his brothers runs deep. He has his down moments but he loves his family with all of his heart.
Ladies and gents, this is another magnificent masterpiece that will leave you on the edge of your seat literally. I am anxious to read the next installment in this series. Syre is coming hard for Royelle, so I am going to buckle up and enjoy the ride.
May 7, 2024
I don’t nooooott like cliff hangers! lol you wrong! I read this book in 2 days. I started connecting the dots soon so I knew Layken was responsible for carrying out the hit but I did not guess Royelle was a culprit too. I kept wondering what her role in it was..I have a good idea of WHO ordered the hit. Like I just feel like I’m right to the T— But uggghhhh when is part two coming?!!! I need to wrap this up!
Side note — I can’t WAIT for Syre to body Abel. I want Rachel to get her L too because she was wrong. My only grievance with this story is how childish Royelle was. I understand it’s hard to trust after you’ve been in a fucked up situation repeatedly but I did get tired of her always snapping at Syre. I love Syre though. He’s misunderstood but he means so well. I definitely relate to him.
HURRY WITH PART TWOOOO!!
Side note — I can’t WAIT for Syre to body Abel. I want Rachel to get her L too because she was wrong. My only grievance with this story is how childish Royelle was. I understand it’s hard to trust after you’ve been in a fucked up situation repeatedly but I did get tired of her always snapping at Syre. I love Syre though. He’s misunderstood but he means so well. I definitely relate to him.
HURRY WITH PART TWOOOO!!
January 3, 2025
WOW
This story kept my attention from beginning to end. Very well written, great storyline and character development. Syre is the character you just can't help but love. He loves his family but also feels like the unwanted sibling. Royelle, just can't catch a break from betrayals to the revelation that her action caused the one man who is putting a smile on her face heartache. Despite the circumstances, Syre and Royelle are good together. After that ending, Abel's days are definitely numbered. Can't wait for what's in store for part 2.
This story kept my attention from beginning to end. Very well written, great storyline and character development. Syre is the character you just can't help but love. He loves his family but also feels like the unwanted sibling. Royelle, just can't catch a break from betrayals to the revelation that her action caused the one man who is putting a smile on her face heartache. Despite the circumstances, Syre and Royelle are good together. After that ending, Abel's days are definitely numbered. Can't wait for what's in store for part 2.
February 1, 2025
Imagine this: you love your man down to your core. Even when you are doing time (yep, a 5-year bid thanks to a run-in with the cops in your mans car), you still see him every other weekend, chat on the phone daily, and he’s even putting money on your books. You truly believe he’s out there doing right by you.
But when you finally get out, the first 24 hours are radio silence. Then, out of the blue, he shows up to pick you up and takes you shopping. That’s when you bump into an old friend who hands you her number, saying hit her up if you ever need help or need to make some extra cash. Things start looking up—until you and your man head to a hotel for some much-needed alone time. You get reacquainted, adult style, and everything seems fine until you wake up and he’s gone. And it keeps happening like clockwork for the next three days.
By the fourth day, housekeeping wakes you up, telling you you need to vacate the room for checkout. At the office, the manager drops the bomb: the credit card (in your cousin’s name, for some weird reason) has been cancelled and reported as fraud. You scramble to collect your things and call your man—but no answer. Finally, you call your homegirl from the mall. And then, out of nowhere, your man calls to confess that he’s been living with your cousin for the past two years and is in love with her. I was ready to fight Able and his silly self—really, how could loneliness drive him to get so close to your own cousin?!
And just when you think that’s all the drama, the story flips into a whole new level when Royelle meets our MMC, Syre. Suddenly, you’re hit with the realization that life is unpredictable—you can plan all you want, but it’ll always throw you a curveball.
This book had all the drama, twists, and unexpected turns that kept me glued to every page. It’s messy, it’s wild, and it’s a reminder that love can be as unpredictable as it is intoxicating. Enjoy the ride!
But when you finally get out, the first 24 hours are radio silence. Then, out of the blue, he shows up to pick you up and takes you shopping. That’s when you bump into an old friend who hands you her number, saying hit her up if you ever need help or need to make some extra cash. Things start looking up—until you and your man head to a hotel for some much-needed alone time. You get reacquainted, adult style, and everything seems fine until you wake up and he’s gone. And it keeps happening like clockwork for the next three days.
By the fourth day, housekeeping wakes you up, telling you you need to vacate the room for checkout. At the office, the manager drops the bomb: the credit card (in your cousin’s name, for some weird reason) has been cancelled and reported as fraud. You scramble to collect your things and call your man—but no answer. Finally, you call your homegirl from the mall. And then, out of nowhere, your man calls to confess that he’s been living with your cousin for the past two years and is in love with her. I was ready to fight Able and his silly self—really, how could loneliness drive him to get so close to your own cousin?!
And just when you think that’s all the drama, the story flips into a whole new level when Royelle meets our MMC, Syre. Suddenly, you’re hit with the realization that life is unpredictable—you can plan all you want, but it’ll always throw you a curveball.
This book had all the drama, twists, and unexpected turns that kept me glued to every page. It’s messy, it’s wild, and it’s a reminder that love can be as unpredictable as it is intoxicating. Enjoy the ride!
May 14, 2024
Syre Syre Syre!!!! He came with BIGGEST BDE!!!! Whew im in love 😂😂 but this book was good aff, and that ending was not what i expected i need book 2 asap!!!’
March 3, 2025
Omg!! I knew that was gonna be the job that Elle had to complete! Book 2 me now!
May 6, 2024
Syre and Elle
Now Mrs. Jones, you are dead wrong for the cliffhanger. I need more ASAP and pray Royelle can keep her secret forever. I love her and Syre’s relationship. She was like the missing puzzle to his life.
Now Abel and Rochelle can go to hell. They are both trifling. Abel is b**** for not taking his charges. Rochelle is a snake to never trust again.
I’m glad she had Lakelyn, but now I’m not sure that friendship was for the best. I hope Elle can get it together and talk to Syre.
Great start to the series. Please don’t make us wait to long. This is a must read!
Now Mrs. Jones, you are dead wrong for the cliffhanger. I need more ASAP and pray Royelle can keep her secret forever. I love her and Syre’s relationship. She was like the missing puzzle to his life.
Now Abel and Rochelle can go to hell. They are both trifling. Abel is b**** for not taking his charges. Rochelle is a snake to never trust again.
I’m glad she had Lakelyn, but now I’m not sure that friendship was for the best. I hope Elle can get it together and talk to Syre.
Great start to the series. Please don’t make us wait to long. This is a must read!
November 22, 2024
whoa whoa whoa
She did what. And she did that?? And the ex is crazy?? Let me get on to part 2 hopefully she comes clean.
She did what. And she did that?? And the ex is crazy?? Let me get on to part 2 hopefully she comes clean.
September 29, 2024
Wrong direction
It was great seeing Syre finding his home. His openness and fully embracing his new role. HOWEVER, as head of security, he made moves that were too foolish to be believed. Leaving when your family was so vulnerable makes no sense. Not doing a background check and giving full access immediately are two amateur mistakes.
The paint brush of Elle being so naive was too unbelievable. Where she grew up should have given her more street knowledge and common sense. In prison for 5 years and no put up on game that her bid belongs to Abel. Abel doesn’t see her the day of her release spoke volumes. Answered Abel’s phone call months after the credit card fraud and betrayal then lying to your husband about it.
Took the money left right after giving the speech about how killing is so wrong. It the actions that speak louder than words. It took Layken to voice the obvious, Girl bye. The conflict would have works better if Elle would have been trying to figure out how to cover up her involvement (what did she play any way, some sort of distraction) deciding if she should protect Layden who was there when no one else was or her husband and new family. Despite my 3 rating, I would recommend the book.
It was great seeing Syre finding his home. His openness and fully embracing his new role. HOWEVER, as head of security, he made moves that were too foolish to be believed. Leaving when your family was so vulnerable makes no sense. Not doing a background check and giving full access immediately are two amateur mistakes.
The paint brush of Elle being so naive was too unbelievable. Where she grew up should have given her more street knowledge and common sense. In prison for 5 years and no put up on game that her bid belongs to Abel. Abel doesn’t see her the day of her release spoke volumes. Answered Abel’s phone call months after the credit card fraud and betrayal then lying to your husband about it.
Took the money left right after giving the speech about how killing is so wrong. It the actions that speak louder than words. It took Layken to voice the obvious, Girl bye. The conflict would have works better if Elle would have been trying to figure out how to cover up her involvement (what did she play any way, some sort of distraction) deciding if she should protect Layden who was there when no one else was or her husband and new family. Despite my 3 rating, I would recommend the book.
March 19, 2025
Premise: After a drunken night in Vegas, Royelle and Syre get married. They met earlier that day at Syre's brothers engagement party but ended up leaving the party early and flew to Vegas on a whim. The next day Syre learns that his Aunt was killed and brother almost killed at the party.
I liked the unique story line. Royelle was down on her luck after just getting out of jail and discovering that her boyfriend and cousin got together while she was in jail. Her ex is an asshole. Syre comes from a rich family with enemies. The way these storylines intersect is interesting. Story ends on a cliffhanger.
I liked the unique story line. Royelle was down on her luck after just getting out of jail and discovering that her boyfriend and cousin got together while she was in jail. Her ex is an asshole. Syre comes from a rich family with enemies. The way these storylines intersect is interesting. Story ends on a cliffhanger.
June 23, 2025
GIRL. Let me tell you about this book…
Secure In The Arms Of A Thug by Tatum James had me in a chokehold from page one. Like… whew, this book came in hot, swerved left, then hit me with a tailspin of emotions I wasn’t ready for.
We meet Royelle fresh outta high school, ridin’ in her man’s box Chevy feelin’ like she’s on top of the world… until the world flips. One trip to the corner store turns into five years behind bars, and guess who didn’t ride for her like she rode for him? That dusty Abel. I ain’t even gon’ hold you—my jaw was on the floor.
Fast forward, Royelle’s back home, tryna piece her life together after betrayal from the two people closest to her. Then her old cellmate Layken slides through like a real one, gives her a place to stay, and puts her on to some fast money. Mind you, Royelle’s still lowkey in survival mode—heart bruised, trust bent up, trying to breathe.
Now baby, this is where Syre Reign struts in and shakes the whole table. He’s the youngest of the Reign Dynasty (yes, it’s givin’ family saga), misunderstood, moody, and FINE. We talkin’ complex, tat-sleeved, emotionally layered hood royalty. That man is a walking heartache and a healing balm all at once. Royelle meets him at an engagement party (not knowing it’s his brother’s) and they vibe so effortlessly, it’s giving “wait… who sent you?”
One spontaneous Vegas trip and a few drinks later, and baybee… they done woke up married. Drunk? Yes. In love? Not yet. But intrigued? Oh absolutely. And when life yanks Syre back home the next morning, Royelle’s left in her feelings with no clue what just happened.
When they link again? CHILE. This man said “Bring yo ass home—we married.” Like WHAT? I wasn’t ready for Syre to be this open. This attentive. This intentional. He don’t play about Royelle and it shows in every scene. From the way he listens to the way he loves. He’s still learning how to show up, but he shows up.
And sis? Royelle tries so hard not to fold. But the way Syre keeps proving her wrong about men? Whew. But just when things start feeling like something real... that past creeps back in. The money-making “job” she took might just ruin everything they’re building. Add in an obsessed ex that won’t let go, and baybee—my heart was in my throat.
By the time I hit that cliffhanger? I was ready to throw my Kindle across the room. And thank GOD book 2 is out because I need answers. Like, will Syre fight for her? Will he forgive her? Will she even make it back to him in one piece??
This story is soft. It’s spicy. It’s vulnerable. It’s dangerous. It’s everything I want in a hood love story with depth. 5/5 stars. I laughed, I gasped, I got butterflies, I got MAD. And now I’m all in with the Reign family and this series. Don’t walk—run to read this.
READ THIS. Trust me.
Secure In The Arms Of A Thug by Tatum James had me in a chokehold from page one. Like… whew, this book came in hot, swerved left, then hit me with a tailspin of emotions I wasn’t ready for.
We meet Royelle fresh outta high school, ridin’ in her man’s box Chevy feelin’ like she’s on top of the world… until the world flips. One trip to the corner store turns into five years behind bars, and guess who didn’t ride for her like she rode for him? That dusty Abel. I ain’t even gon’ hold you—my jaw was on the floor.
Fast forward, Royelle’s back home, tryna piece her life together after betrayal from the two people closest to her. Then her old cellmate Layken slides through like a real one, gives her a place to stay, and puts her on to some fast money. Mind you, Royelle’s still lowkey in survival mode—heart bruised, trust bent up, trying to breathe.
Now baby, this is where Syre Reign struts in and shakes the whole table. He’s the youngest of the Reign Dynasty (yes, it’s givin’ family saga), misunderstood, moody, and FINE. We talkin’ complex, tat-sleeved, emotionally layered hood royalty. That man is a walking heartache and a healing balm all at once. Royelle meets him at an engagement party (not knowing it’s his brother’s) and they vibe so effortlessly, it’s giving “wait… who sent you?”
One spontaneous Vegas trip and a few drinks later, and baybee… they done woke up married. Drunk? Yes. In love? Not yet. But intrigued? Oh absolutely. And when life yanks Syre back home the next morning, Royelle’s left in her feelings with no clue what just happened.
When they link again? CHILE. This man said “Bring yo ass home—we married.” Like WHAT? I wasn’t ready for Syre to be this open. This attentive. This intentional. He don’t play about Royelle and it shows in every scene. From the way he listens to the way he loves. He’s still learning how to show up, but he shows up.
And sis? Royelle tries so hard not to fold. But the way Syre keeps proving her wrong about men? Whew. But just when things start feeling like something real... that past creeps back in. The money-making “job” she took might just ruin everything they’re building. Add in an obsessed ex that won’t let go, and baybee—my heart was in my throat.
By the time I hit that cliffhanger? I was ready to throw my Kindle across the room. And thank GOD book 2 is out because I need answers. Like, will Syre fight for her? Will he forgive her? Will she even make it back to him in one piece??
This story is soft. It’s spicy. It’s vulnerable. It’s dangerous. It’s everything I want in a hood love story with depth. 5/5 stars. I laughed, I gasped, I got butterflies, I got MAD. And now I’m all in with the Reign family and this series. Don’t walk—run to read this.
READ THIS. Trust me.
May 29, 2024
Absolutely🔥 🔥🔥
Now Tatum James I've loved your catalog since "Loved Right by Mr. Wrong", but this one right here got me wanting my own Reign brother. Royelle had it bad since she got stuck with that no good aunt of hers, and when she came home for doing time for her no good boyfriend Abel, to her favorite cousin Rachel playing in her face while knowing that for the past two years she's been stabbing her in the back. So happy she linked back up with one of her cell mates that try to put her own to make her own money after realizing that type of job wasn't for her she was still secure because she got lucky and met her knight Mr. Syre, and she was what he needed to settle himself down changing into the.person his aunt always wanted him to be. Each page had me wanting more but that cliffhanger brought tears to my eyes because of the guilt and confusion she was going through. I need book 2 ASAP please
Now Tatum James I've loved your catalog since "Loved Right by Mr. Wrong", but this one right here got me wanting my own Reign brother. Royelle had it bad since she got stuck with that no good aunt of hers, and when she came home for doing time for her no good boyfriend Abel, to her favorite cousin Rachel playing in her face while knowing that for the past two years she's been stabbing her in the back. So happy she linked back up with one of her cell mates that try to put her own to make her own money after realizing that type of job wasn't for her she was still secure because she got lucky and met her knight Mr. Syre, and she was what he needed to settle himself down changing into the.person his aunt always wanted him to be. Each page had me wanting more but that cliffhanger brought tears to my eyes because of the guilt and confusion she was going through. I need book 2 ASAP please
October 20, 2024
😳😳😳
Wow! That ending was truly unexpected! I can't wait to see how everything unfolds now that Royelle has realized she is the source of Syre's pain. It's such a pivotal moment that shifts the entire dynamic of the story. I really hope Abel faces the consequences of his actions—it's hard to understand why he would resort to such lengths. Overall, this book was an incredible journey from start to finish. Syre is such a complex character; one moment he had me laughing uncontrollably with his wit and the next, I was caught off guard, feeling the weight of his struggles. It’s a testament to the author’s skill in crafting such a rich and engaging narrative!
Wow! That ending was truly unexpected! I can't wait to see how everything unfolds now that Royelle has realized she is the source of Syre's pain. It's such a pivotal moment that shifts the entire dynamic of the story. I really hope Abel faces the consequences of his actions—it's hard to understand why he would resort to such lengths. Overall, this book was an incredible journey from start to finish. Syre is such a complex character; one moment he had me laughing uncontrollably with his wit and the next, I was caught off guard, feeling the weight of his struggles. It’s a testament to the author’s skill in crafting such a rich and engaging narrative!
October 21, 2024
♥️
Not was I was expecting!!! The beginning was used to build the history of the characters but she jumped right into the drama!! The drama built throughout the book and reallllly came to a head in the end! I throughly enjoyed this! Looking forward to reading the next part and checking out more from this author.
Not was I was expecting!!! The beginning was used to build the history of the characters but she jumped right into the drama!! The drama built throughout the book and reallllly came to a head in the end! I throughly enjoyed this! Looking forward to reading the next part and checking out more from this author.
May 6, 2025
Ummm…wow. While I do think they fell in love too quickly, this is going to be WILD. From Abel’s trifling behind, to Elle jumping head first into a life she didn’t understand, to marrying a man she knew nothing about, to finding out she’s one of the people her husband is looking for, to running back into Abel’s trifling behind, now we have to figure out what the hell Abel did to her.
Whew…
Whew…
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 12, 2024
Too much happening but I loved it
Listen here I don’t have time for no cliffhangers Ms.Lady. That darn Royelle just couldn’t catch a darn break. I also felt like Royelle was too naive in some parts of the book. How you gone take a job and don’t really know all the details. I just can’t wait to get to part 2. When Syre find out she was the one that poisoned the Aunt it’s going to be you know what to pay. 5stars for sure
Listen here I don’t have time for no cliffhangers Ms.Lady. That darn Royelle just couldn’t catch a darn break. I also felt like Royelle was too naive in some parts of the book. How you gone take a job and don’t really know all the details. I just can’t wait to get to part 2. When Syre find out she was the one that poisoned the Aunt it’s going to be you know what to pay. 5stars for sure
May 17, 2024
5 stars
Wooosssaaa. I can't wait to read book 2. When it rains, it pours. Poor Royelle, what is she going to do? And Abel is about to meet Mr. Reign SMH. And not in a good way lol. 5 stars for this book. Definitely a must read
Wooosssaaa. I can't wait to read book 2. When it rains, it pours. Poor Royelle, what is she going to do? And Abel is about to meet Mr. Reign SMH. And not in a good way lol. 5 stars for this book. Definitely a must read
May 28, 2024
He’s teaching her to love again
Roy Elle has really found a good man in Syre without even looking. He’s really falling in love with her and knew she was the one from day one and married her and does not play about her but it’s about to get real as a blast from the past tries to come between them
Roy Elle has really found a good man in Syre without even looking. He’s really falling in love with her and knew she was the one from day one and married her and does not play about her but it’s about to get real as a blast from the past tries to come between them
June 7, 2024
This was so good . I really enjoyed this . Syre is my man my man my man . The story was so different. MMC was sexy and funny had me laughing. Tatum James will have you giggling and kicking your feet. 5 star read. Go buy and support.
December 18, 2024
Umm, umm umm smdh! Just when I thought I knew how this thing was going to end...
Syre told Royelle "Any 🥷or 🐕 that thinks it’s wise to fuccs with you is going to have to hide their whole family.”
Now, Able should have heeded the warnings.
Syre told Royelle "Any 🥷or 🐕 that thinks it’s wise to fuccs with you is going to have to hide their whole family.”
Now, Able should have heeded the warnings.
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