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PANTHER
Bound by duty, led by love.... Brooks, Thompson, Johnson, and Harrison, four of the most common names in the United States. Yet, these young men, at the beginning of their bridge to manhood, are anything but ordinary. They are also the cream of the crop of men who make up the Next Generation Series. And so, it begins...
The journey into manhood for four friends, James, Elliott, Calvin, and JC is not what one would expect. As sons of the leaders of the United States, their lives are under a microscope, surrounded by secret service. When they decide to take a journey around the world, the experience alters their lives in ways none of them expected. For James Avery Brooks Jr., he discovers a persona that leads to his code name PANTHER.
James has come to a crossroads. He is about to graduate from college and enter law school and still contemplating his career. Should he step into his father's shoes and choose politics, or find his own passion? James would probably go the safest route. However, Panther would take the path of protecting people by any means necessary.
Princess ZsaZsa Ashro was brought to the United States for safety after she was kidnapped in her country of Emure. Yet, her love for the people of Emure has not diminished. On the contrary, her desire to improve the lives of women in her country is paramount in her mind.
The moment their eyes meet, James knows ZsaZsa is the woman for him. He was captivated by her exotic beauty, but it is her mind and dedication to her country and its people that had him captured. Whatever he must endure to have her as his own, he was willing to do, even if it meant challenging a king for her hand in marriage.
It all comes down to country, family and love.
389 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 25, 2024
About the author
Iris Bolling
51 books420 followersIris Bolling is an award-winning USA Today bestselling author of five series totaling over thirty romantic suspense novels. In addition to writing, she has produced and directed several books to film projects, and scriptwriting projects for other authors.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
July 29, 2024
It’s finally here! The next generation in the ever-expanding Iris Bolling Universe has arrived and believe me her fans are ready for it! Panther, James Avery Brooks, Jr, the son of the Chief of Staff of the United States, is more than ready to make his mark in the world as a future leader. He’s not alone by any means. Elliott Thompson (son of Brian Thompson who heads the personal protection detail for the President of the United States), Calvin Johnson, Jr. (son of Calvin Johnson, Sr., the Attorney General of the United States) and JC Harrison (son of the President of the United States) are the fearsome foursome who have been “friends for life” since they were in elementary school.
Now that you know the main players, let’s get back to James Jr, aka Panther. In his journey to manhood, defender of justice, and a rising star, James meets the love of his life, Princess Zsa Zsa Adannaya Ashro of Emure, a country in Africa. She is Phire’s college roommate. Need I say more. Zsa Zsa and James are instantly attracted to each other, but they each have goals to accomplish before making a final commitment. Zsa Zsa’s goals include going back to her homeland and helping to improve the life of the citizens, especially the women who are considered property. James is committed to helping African Americans better their life by acquiring and maintaining home ownership in order to generate generational wealth for their families. Lofty goals indeed for two young people who are independently wealthy but have a heart for the people.
Things get very dicey for both James and Zsa Zsa. There are forces at work that do not appreciate their efforts. Zsa Zsa’s fight is with certain family members, and James is up against unscrupulous land grabbers. These attacks call for James to utilize his training by the best, Joshua & crew, and his loyal brothers to battle against foes at home and those abroad. It’s the fight on African soil for me! That scene when Zsa Zsa’s brother is raising his hand to hit her is lit! Talk about the Panther striking! You’ve got to read it for yourself.
I highly recommend PANTHER for your reading pleasure. This next generation is educated, trained, wealthy, and ready! If you are unfamiliar with the I.B. Universe, then you are missing out on some great stories.
Now that you know the main players, let’s get back to James Jr, aka Panther. In his journey to manhood, defender of justice, and a rising star, James meets the love of his life, Princess Zsa Zsa Adannaya Ashro of Emure, a country in Africa. She is Phire’s college roommate. Need I say more. Zsa Zsa and James are instantly attracted to each other, but they each have goals to accomplish before making a final commitment. Zsa Zsa’s goals include going back to her homeland and helping to improve the life of the citizens, especially the women who are considered property. James is committed to helping African Americans better their life by acquiring and maintaining home ownership in order to generate generational wealth for their families. Lofty goals indeed for two young people who are independently wealthy but have a heart for the people.
Things get very dicey for both James and Zsa Zsa. There are forces at work that do not appreciate their efforts. Zsa Zsa’s fight is with certain family members, and James is up against unscrupulous land grabbers. These attacks call for James to utilize his training by the best, Joshua & crew, and his loyal brothers to battle against foes at home and those abroad. It’s the fight on African soil for me! That scene when Zsa Zsa’s brother is raising his hand to hit her is lit! Talk about the Panther striking! You’ve got to read it for yourself.
I highly recommend PANTHER for your reading pleasure. This next generation is educated, trained, wealthy, and ready! If you are unfamiliar with the I.B. Universe, then you are missing out on some great stories.
August 21, 2025
This is my second read of Panther (in anticipation of Jaguar's release).
They say blood is thicker than water, but between JC Harrison, Elliott Thompson, Calvin Johnson Jr, and James Brooks Jr. the bond 0f brotherly love and deep abiding friendship is a beautiful thing to see. Like their fathers, this next generation is following in their footsteps of loyalty and trust. It was wonderful seeing them grow up and mature in the heart series and here we are seeing them as young men coming into their own. The story itself was great, full of intrigue and action as only Iris Bolling can deliver. Princess ZsaZsa has always been one of my favorite female Iris Bolling characters even since Joshua Lassiter rescued her after her kidnapping. I think she is the perfect match for James, Jr.
I am so excited about the Next Generation series. Next up Jaguar.
Comment
They say blood is thicker than water, but between JC Harrison, Elliott Thompson, Calvin Johnson Jr, and James Brooks Jr. the bond 0f brotherly love and deep abiding friendship is a beautiful thing to see. Like their fathers, this next generation is following in their footsteps of loyalty and trust. It was wonderful seeing them grow up and mature in the heart series and here we are seeing them as young men coming into their own. The story itself was great, full of intrigue and action as only Iris Bolling can deliver. Princess ZsaZsa has always been one of my favorite female Iris Bolling characters even since Joshua Lassiter rescued her after her kidnapping. I think she is the perfect match for James, Jr.
I am so excited about the Next Generation series. Next up Jaguar.
Comment
August 7, 2024
I NEEDED THIS BOOK RIGHT NOW
Reading this book and all prior have left me yearning for the next one.
Zsazsa and James Jr. made me smile, laugh, cry and believe that true love exists.
The love, loyalty and patience James Jr. bestowed upon the woman he loved was amazing. And the way she endeared him was absolutely phenomenal.
It was great to read of the once children of the cabinet coming into their own adulthood and embracing it. I loved how their fathers/uncles were there for them and showed that there was nothing they wouldn't do to make sure that they were safe.
Can't wait to read the next one. You never cease to amaze me with your writings. Thank Ms. Bolling, great job. Please keep the great reads coming.
Reading this book and all prior have left me yearning for the next one.
Zsazsa and James Jr. made me smile, laugh, cry and believe that true love exists.
The love, loyalty and patience James Jr. bestowed upon the woman he loved was amazing. And the way she endeared him was absolutely phenomenal.
It was great to read of the once children of the cabinet coming into their own adulthood and embracing it. I loved how their fathers/uncles were there for them and showed that there was nothing they wouldn't do to make sure that they were safe.
Can't wait to read the next one. You never cease to amaze me with your writings. Thank Ms. Bolling, great job. Please keep the great reads coming.
October 15, 2024
OMG! Ms Bolling, book 1, "Panther" of "The Next Generation" series was amazing. I admired the deep love, respect, and devotion of James Jr. towards Princess ZsaZsa. In this day and age, it was refreshing to see a couple committed to wait until married or at least engaged before becoming intimate. In addition, these four boys have truly grown into men that their families can be proud of and their enemies should fear. Instead of just blowing smoke or paying lip service, they are committed to improving the lives of others, in a tangible way. The unshakable bond and loyalty between these youngmen blew me away. I can't wait to read Elliott's (Jaguar) story.
August 5, 2024
What you won’t do for love
This is my first Iris Bolling book. It definitely did not disappoint. As a #boymom of two, I felt pride at the positive depiction of these 4 educated and well balanced friends.
Honestly, this book has all the makings of a great TV series….strong family roots & connections, deep bonds of friendship, soulmate kind of love, intelligent black women, cultural immersion, evolution, and a man willing to sacrifices it all for his princess. Lawdamercy this was a great read!!!
This is my first Iris Bolling book. It definitely did not disappoint. As a #boymom of two, I felt pride at the positive depiction of these 4 educated and well balanced friends.
Honestly, this book has all the makings of a great TV series….strong family roots & connections, deep bonds of friendship, soulmate kind of love, intelligent black women, cultural immersion, evolution, and a man willing to sacrifices it all for his princess. Lawdamercy this was a great read!!!
August 29, 2024
I can't believe these babies are all grown up and doing their thang!! Iris Bolling once again never disappoints with her story lines of romance, thrills, international incidents and everything in between. I enjoyed the start of this series The Next Generation and it looks like Elliott's story may be next. The only thing for me was that the romance storyline of James Jr. and Princess Zsa Zsa dragged a bit, and it was almost a quarter into the book where things finally took off! Other that LOVED it!
July 28, 2024
The Second Generation
Good story. Especially intriguing is the B-More project and the alliances with the countries in Africa. My only complaint is why can't the authors like, Ms Bolling, let the heroine's initial stance to remain celibate until they are married abide? Why can't one of the plot twists be the couple's fight to actually remain celibate? Do we always have to give in?
Good story. Especially intriguing is the B-More project and the alliances with the countries in Africa. My only complaint is why can't the authors like, Ms Bolling, let the heroine's initial stance to remain celibate until they are married abide? Why can't one of the plot twists be the couple's fight to actually remain celibate? Do we always have to give in?
July 30, 2024
Awesome job!
What a great read! I enjoyed reading this book! James Jr is the bombdiggity! Just Awesome! He has really grown in Bolling's books! I loved how open ZsaZsa was. Her outbursts were hilarious to me. I loved the chemistry between James an ZsaZsa! Instant attraction not only physically, but to the minds. I can't wait to read the next book in the series! I definitely recommend this book to every reader! I do believe all will enjoy it! Happy reading!
What a great read! I enjoyed reading this book! James Jr is the bombdiggity! Just Awesome! He has really grown in Bolling's books! I loved how open ZsaZsa was. Her outbursts were hilarious to me. I loved the chemistry between James an ZsaZsa! Instant attraction not only physically, but to the minds. I can't wait to read the next book in the series! I definitely recommend this book to every reader! I do believe all will enjoy it! Happy reading!
August 4, 2024
A winner
I can’t not believe the children are grown and having the time of their lives. James Jr. always said Princess Zsa Zsa was going to be his. Now he with his other friends are a force to be reckoned with. This story will take you on a ride you do not want to miss. A new group of missionaries are around and Panther was the first one to stake his claim.I can wait for the next story.
I can’t not believe the children are grown and having the time of their lives. James Jr. always said Princess Zsa Zsa was going to be his. Now he with his other friends are a force to be reckoned with. This story will take you on a ride you do not want to miss. A new group of missionaries are around and Panther was the first one to stake his claim.I can wait for the next story.
October 17, 2024
Good read
Good read, I liked the characters and storyline. James Jr’s story was a little slow for me, because it repeated some of the timeline and situations of previous books. James Jr and ZsaZsa’s romance was sweet. The coming of age of the next generation (James Jr. Elliot, Calvin and JC), and their growth as men with strong personalities and beliefs. There was a lot going on in the book, with some action at the end. I look forward to the next installment.
Good read, I liked the characters and storyline. James Jr’s story was a little slow for me, because it repeated some of the timeline and situations of previous books. James Jr and ZsaZsa’s romance was sweet. The coming of age of the next generation (James Jr. Elliot, Calvin and JC), and their growth as men with strong personalities and beliefs. There was a lot going on in the book, with some action at the end. I look forward to the next installment.
January 21, 2026
Panther
I Loved this story! I loved this author writing! I am so happy that she is bringing in characters from her other books, because I hate when her books end! I am up late at night reading, because I hate putting them down! Now, what's next? I love these young generation of Proud following in their fathers footsteps but making their own way! Not afraid of making their way! All strong young men! Make sure you start with Panther!
I Loved this story! I loved this author writing! I am so happy that she is bringing in characters from her other books, because I hate when her books end! I am up late at night reading, because I hate putting them down! Now, what's next? I love these young generation of Proud following in their fathers footsteps but making their own way! Not afraid of making their way! All strong young men! Make sure you start with Panther!
July 6, 2024
Always
They say blood is thicker than water, but between J C, Elliott, Calvin Jr., and James Jr. the bond is brotherly love and a deep abiding friendship. All characters touched in a special way. My favorite character was ZasZas. There were a few shockers, a lot of laughter, and a few memorable scenes. I am so excited about the Next Generation series.
They say blood is thicker than water, but between J C, Elliott, Calvin Jr., and James Jr. the bond is brotherly love and a deep abiding friendship. All characters touched in a special way. My favorite character was ZasZas. There were a few shockers, a lot of laughter, and a few memorable scenes. I am so excited about the Next Generation series.
July 28, 2024
Great Great
Iris Bolling never fails to deliver. I have been waiting on this story of James jr and ZsaZsa, and it didn’t disappoint. Action, Love , celibacy , and friendship. There love was tested over and over again. I wasn’t sure if they would end up together in the end. I kept hoping this wouldn’t be another Joshua and Akande ending.
Great job
Iris Bolling never fails to deliver. I have been waiting on this story of James jr and ZsaZsa, and it didn’t disappoint. Action, Love , celibacy , and friendship. There love was tested over and over again. I wasn’t sure if they would end up together in the end. I kept hoping this wouldn’t be another Joshua and Akande ending.
Great job
August 7, 2024
James Jr. and Zsa Zsa
This another extraordinary, romantic, dangerous, and powerful story. This is author is serious about her writing business. The characters come to life in your mind and make you want to read the book again. I’ve gotten to the point that I can read some other books again also, especially Joshua’s book. I can’t wait for Elliott’s story.
This another extraordinary, romantic, dangerous, and powerful story. This is author is serious about her writing business. The characters come to life in your mind and make you want to read the book again. I’ve gotten to the point that I can read some other books again also, especially Joshua’s book. I can’t wait for Elliott’s story.
September 13, 2024
MsLady
Five stars call Ms Bolling. You always hold my attention with your books. This one was no different. I cannot wait to read all the books that you going write about the next generation. They are as exciting and enthusiastic as once before I love your writing style and I love the way you pull in what’s happening today in today world. God bless.
Five stars call Ms Bolling. You always hold my attention with your books. This one was no different. I cannot wait to read all the books that you going write about the next generation. They are as exciting and enthusiastic as once before I love your writing style and I love the way you pull in what’s happening today in today world. God bless.
August 3, 2024
The saga continues
This first installment of the next generation did not disappoint. James Jr. was everything. I knew going back to Emure would bring Teddi and Akende back. The appearance of my man, Joshua, was just enough to wet my appetite. Can't wait to see what happens next.
This first installment of the next generation did not disappoint. James Jr. was everything. I knew going back to Emure would bring Teddi and Akende back. The appearance of my man, Joshua, was just enough to wet my appetite. Can't wait to see what happens next.
August 3, 2024
Panther
Ms Bolling has truly outdone herself again!! I could not stop reading this book. Great storyline, great characters and the series just gets better and better. Ready for the next one.
Ms Bolling has truly outdone herself again!! I could not stop reading this book. Great storyline, great characters and the series just gets better and better. Ready for the next one.
August 12, 2024
BRAVO
The next generation is a hit. This book was detailed crossed over other stories to define this one. It has me anticipating the next installment and wanting to read all these series over again.
Bravo!!!!!
The next generation is a hit. This book was detailed crossed over other stories to define this one. It has me anticipating the next installment and wanting to read all these series over again.
Bravo!!!!!
August 18, 2024
Spell bonding
I could not put the book down. It was so very intriguing as always. I wish you have never left us down, or disappointed. thank you for sharing your gift with us in words
I could not put the book down. It was so very intriguing as always. I wish you have never left us down, or disappointed. thank you for sharing your gift with us in words
September 3, 2024
off to a great start
This story is definitely a great beginning for the next generation. This glimpse into what’s in store for us readers is enough to have wanting more before we’d even finished this story. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
This story is definitely a great beginning for the next generation. This glimpse into what’s in store for us readers is enough to have wanting more before we’d even finished this story. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
September 9, 2024
So happy to see the next generation of the Heart Series. This series is Ms Boiling at her best. James Jr and Zsa Zsa’s story was a great start to the Heart kids stories. Their story really picked up towards the end. A solid 4.5!
October 6, 2024
Family is everthing
This is a story of family sticking together. Not just the Brooks family sticking together. Panther and his friends were family , Zsa Zsa and her brothers and even Joshua and Teddi. I love this book!
This is a story of family sticking together. Not just the Brooks family sticking together. Panther and his friends were family , Zsa Zsa and her brothers and even Joshua and Teddi. I love this book!
March 7, 2025
Great way to start next generation.
You will enjoy this book. When you read it you will want to go back and read all of her books. It will explain how they are all so close and all that they have been through.
You will enjoy this book. When you read it you will want to go back and read all of her books. It will explain how they are all so close and all that they have been through.
July 16, 2024
James Brooks Jr. No other words are necessary. Great book!
July 24, 2024
Loved reading about James Jr and Zsa Zsa's journey. The flow was great and of course there funny moments
July 26, 2024
I wasn’t disappointed
I can’t wait for the next one. This book kept my attention from the beginning to the end. Good read
I can’t wait for the next one. This book kept my attention from the beginning to the end. Good read
August 8, 2024
panther
Love this can not wait for the next book. Iris bolling is on fire with tube series 100% fantastic read.
Love this can not wait for the next book. Iris bolling is on fire with tube series 100% fantastic read.
August 9, 2024
Worth the wait
This book for the next generation was so worth the wait. I can't wait for the next book to drop. I already love the series that is to come
This book for the next generation was so worth the wait. I can't wait for the next book to drop. I already love the series that is to come
August 26, 2024
Really loved reading the next generation first book, can't wait for the others
October 4, 2024
awesome
Love seeing the guys all grown up. Loved the fact that James let nothing stand in his way of true love.
Love seeing the guys all grown up. Loved the fact that James let nothing stand in his way of true love.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews