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Shine: An Enigma Series Origin Story
A prelude story...
In the heart of 1980s Pittsburgh, as the crack cocaine epidemic ravages the streets, Michael "Shine" Ferrell is a rising player in the city's cutthroat underworld. Hungry for more power, he sets his sights on expanding his empire—only to clash with a ruthless rival who controls the city's darkest corners. But it’s not just the streets that threaten to swallow him whole. A betrayal at home shakes the foundation of the little he holds dear, forcing Shine to navigate deadly alliances and personal ruin as the epidemic spreads like wildfire.
*Does NOT need to be read in order, though reading Smoke, Maestro, and Slick will make for a better reading experience.*
In the suspense-filled world of The Enigma Series characters, everyone has a past. These are their stories.
The Enigma Series is a crime romance/Black Mafia series by Aja set in the heart of Pittsburgh. Visit ajathewriter.com to sign up for her newsletter for more updates.
In the heart of 1980s Pittsburgh, as the crack cocaine epidemic ravages the streets, Michael "Shine" Ferrell is a rising player in the city's cutthroat underworld. Hungry for more power, he sets his sights on expanding his empire—only to clash with a ruthless rival who controls the city's darkest corners. But it’s not just the streets that threaten to swallow him whole. A betrayal at home shakes the foundation of the little he holds dear, forcing Shine to navigate deadly alliances and personal ruin as the epidemic spreads like wildfire.
*Does NOT need to be read in order, though reading Smoke, Maestro, and Slick will make for a better reading experience.*
In the suspense-filled world of The Enigma Series characters, everyone has a past. These are their stories.
The Enigma Series is a crime romance/Black Mafia series by Aja set in the heart of Pittsburgh. Visit ajathewriter.com to sign up for her newsletter for more updates.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2024
About the author
Aja
55 books250 followersWhen it comes to writing passionate Black love that jumps off the page and into readers’ hearts, Aja’s pen is a leader in the game. To date, she’s written and self-published over 30 books that offer an escape into Black love stories that center on sensual, sexy, and erotic experiences. The winner of BRAB's 2020 Beverly Jenkins Author of The Year and 2022 Brenda Jackson Romance of The Year awards uses her life experience and persuasive storytelling talent to construct characters and situations that showcase the best Black love can be and offer. In the pages of her books, you’ll find relatable characters that seduce you with their intense chemistry that Aja seamlessly blends into soul-stirring romances.
The Pittsburgh native is a full-time writer with the mind and patience that allows her to maintain a life of constant study. Life is her biggest teacher. Through self-study and persistent observation of others, Aja finds the human thread that connects us all. That relatability is a recurring tenet of her award-winning books. Time spent reading any of her narratives is underscored by deep feelings of love and connection because love isn’t just her brand; it’s who she is. Black love advocacy is the central theme on every page she writes because Aja believes Black love is shaped and defined by Black people’s many trials and tribulations. Her Black-on-Black characters love the way they do, not because of what they’ve endured, but in spite of it.
Aja doesn’t just write about love; she lives it every day. She’s familiar with the passion, intensity, and sensuality that readers yearn for, and that’s why her books leave a powerful, lasting mark on readers’ minds. To stay updated on the latest reads from her expansive, decorated catalog, join her mailing list:
https://bit.ly/Signup4Aja
The Pittsburgh native is a full-time writer with the mind and patience that allows her to maintain a life of constant study. Life is her biggest teacher. Through self-study and persistent observation of others, Aja finds the human thread that connects us all. That relatability is a recurring tenet of her award-winning books. Time spent reading any of her narratives is underscored by deep feelings of love and connection because love isn’t just her brand; it’s who she is. Black love advocacy is the central theme on every page she writes because Aja believes Black love is shaped and defined by Black people’s many trials and tribulations. Her Black-on-Black characters love the way they do, not because of what they’ve endured, but in spite of it.
Aja doesn’t just write about love; she lives it every day. She’s familiar with the passion, intensity, and sensuality that readers yearn for, and that’s why her books leave a powerful, lasting mark on readers’ minds. To stay updated on the latest reads from her expansive, decorated catalog, join her mailing list:
https://bit.ly/Signup4Aja
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
November 2, 2024
SHINE ON...
First, though I only discovered her less than 6 months ago, when I name my favorite authors, Aja is already at the top of that list...As a 70 year old, white grandmother of 6, from rural Oklahoma... I'm not sure I'm even the demographic for which she intentionally writes...but, to me, that only exhibits her widespread and far-reaching appeal...Her books aren't just good...Good is such a bland word...In my opinion, everything she writes is straight-up freaking awesome ...and SHINE, this origin story to The Enigma Series, is no exception..Although the series doesn't have to be read first... I can't recommend enough that you read the whole series..it's one of my favorites..💜🌼
If you have read this series...we met Shine in SMOKE...he's a friend/associate of Elijah "Smoke" Lewis, Mena's father and Maestro's father in law....and SHINE is the backstory of how Michael became Shine...it's also about the love story between Shine and Tamia... Mena's and Raj's mother...After reading the rest of The Enigma Series...the ending of SHINE was a surprise to me, and I loved it..💜🌼
Since the first time I read SMOKE...actually since I first laid eyes on that gorgeous book cover...(Her book covers are the best)....I've been lowkey obsessed with Aja, Smoke, The Enigma Series and everything else she writes...SHINE is 100% pure Aja...but, in my opinion, it's still something different from everything else she's written and shouldn't be missed...I highly recommend this book, this series and this author..💜🌼
First, though I only discovered her less than 6 months ago, when I name my favorite authors, Aja is already at the top of that list...As a 70 year old, white grandmother of 6, from rural Oklahoma... I'm not sure I'm even the demographic for which she intentionally writes...but, to me, that only exhibits her widespread and far-reaching appeal...Her books aren't just good...Good is such a bland word...In my opinion, everything she writes is straight-up freaking awesome ...and SHINE, this origin story to The Enigma Series, is no exception..Although the series doesn't have to be read first... I can't recommend enough that you read the whole series..it's one of my favorites..💜🌼
If you have read this series...we met Shine in SMOKE...he's a friend/associate of Elijah "Smoke" Lewis, Mena's father and Maestro's father in law....and SHINE is the backstory of how Michael became Shine...it's also about the love story between Shine and Tamia... Mena's and Raj's mother...After reading the rest of The Enigma Series...the ending of SHINE was a surprise to me, and I loved it..💜🌼
Since the first time I read SMOKE...actually since I first laid eyes on that gorgeous book cover...(Her book covers are the best)....I've been lowkey obsessed with Aja, Smoke, The Enigma Series and everything else she writes...SHINE is 100% pure Aja...but, in my opinion, it's still something different from everything else she's written and shouldn't be missed...I highly recommend this book, this series and this author..💜🌼
November 2, 2024
This author continues to evolve in her writing. She remains consistent in her love for her hometown and gave us the vibes that put us there. She did her research providing us with an authentic historical experience through the main character's lens. This story raises the voice of our Black men showing that their lives are not always linear and in some cases it does not need to be. Shine complexities make sense and I love that the author did not make him one dimensional. Instead you find a man that you want to love, empathize, and even dislike at the same time. I appreciate the character development and whew there were parts that made you step back and ponder if there were other outcomes or could we handle it or would we have handled it like Shine. I would love to see this story on a screen somewhere because the grit, the rawness, and the depth were both engaging and made for a rich experience. This story speaks to the heart and soul. When I was done I wanted more. I am glad this author got out of her box and crafted this story. Definitely want more. Well done.
April 7, 2025
Ate
Aja is for the grown folks, and I love it!
"Tomorrow was like a woman. You had to work her over, teasing her, caring for her, talking to her through your actions, all with the hope that when you get back home, she’s ready and willing.
The saying that no one is promised tomorrow reminded me that even when you did all the right things with a woman, you weren’t promised her either. She had choices and she might not choose your dusty ass. But you had to keep doing right by her as long as you wanted her.
So I took care of today so tomorrow might choose me. This is how I’d survived so far. This is how I made my money. So, Marva with her perfect body and pretty lips was a no. Because she for damn sure wasn’t tomorrow. "
Shine was loyal to a fault and all he asked was for that loyalty be reciprocated. His priorities were just screwed up. Did he deserve to get done like he did? I think not! I will let u be the judge 🤷🏾♀️ tho...
“Don’t go eating at Pasquale’s. Ain’t no telling what’s in the meat.”
IYKYK 😉
I said what I said and as always: don't take my word for it. Read the book, form your own opinions, and support your authors! 🫶🏿📖👏🏾
Aja is for the grown folks, and I love it!
"Tomorrow was like a woman. You had to work her over, teasing her, caring for her, talking to her through your actions, all with the hope that when you get back home, she’s ready and willing.
The saying that no one is promised tomorrow reminded me that even when you did all the right things with a woman, you weren’t promised her either. She had choices and she might not choose your dusty ass. But you had to keep doing right by her as long as you wanted her.
So I took care of today so tomorrow might choose me. This is how I’d survived so far. This is how I made my money. So, Marva with her perfect body and pretty lips was a no. Because she for damn sure wasn’t tomorrow. "
Shine was loyal to a fault and all he asked was for that loyalty be reciprocated. His priorities were just screwed up. Did he deserve to get done like he did? I think not! I will let u be the judge 🤷🏾♀️ tho...
“Don’t go eating at Pasquale’s. Ain’t no telling what’s in the meat.”
IYKYK 😉
I said what I said and as always: don't take my word for it. Read the book, form your own opinions, and support your authors! 🫶🏿📖👏🏾
November 7, 2024
Whoa!! Alright, Mr. Shine!! 🔥🔥🔥
Now, this is what is called an Origin Story!! Origin is defined as “The root, start or birth of something.” I’m here to tell you that Mrs. Aja definitely gave us the origin of Michael “Shine” Ferrell. Shine’s upbringing dictated a lot of his adulthood. Shine surprised me, but I was so glad to get to really know him!!
This is another excellent addition to The Enigma Series!! Aja continues to outdo herself with each new story and I am right here with her and for her!! Listen, if you haven’t already read the series, please do yourself a favor and do so! But, I also highly recommend that you read the “Soulmates” series first, then “The Enigma Series,” then “Shine.” That way you get the full understanding and experience of pure magnificence!! I’m just saying!! Trust me! You’ll be glad you did!! Kudos, Aja…Kudos!! 💜🖤💜
Now, this is what is called an Origin Story!! Origin is defined as “The root, start or birth of something.” I’m here to tell you that Mrs. Aja definitely gave us the origin of Michael “Shine” Ferrell. Shine’s upbringing dictated a lot of his adulthood. Shine surprised me, but I was so glad to get to really know him!!
This is another excellent addition to The Enigma Series!! Aja continues to outdo herself with each new story and I am right here with her and for her!! Listen, if you haven’t already read the series, please do yourself a favor and do so! But, I also highly recommend that you read the “Soulmates” series first, then “The Enigma Series,” then “Shine.” That way you get the full understanding and experience of pure magnificence!! I’m just saying!! Trust me! You’ll be glad you did!! Kudos, Aja…Kudos!! 💜🖤💜
February 1, 2025
Deferred..Delayed..Denied..Dejected Dreams
Well done Ms. Aja💐! This book was a great read‼️“Shine: The Enigma Series - The Original Story” was emotional journey into the life of a young corner hustler as he fights for an identity and paternal recognition. Certainly not a HEA moment but rather just a dude happy to still be alive, definitely happier than he’s been considering all the decades of hustling without a definitive opportunities for reconciliation, restoration, relaxation or retirement from the game 😮💨. Nonetheless, Mike’s story provided the context to the Shine person: a disappointed child, became a broken adolescent, created ruthless, withdrawn and complex man. …a reflection of his sperm donor. The irony, three generations of hurt people still hurt people by their deferred, delayed, denied, dejected desires & dreams.
Well done Ms. Aja💐! This book was a great read‼️“Shine: The Enigma Series - The Original Story” was emotional journey into the life of a young corner hustler as he fights for an identity and paternal recognition. Certainly not a HEA moment but rather just a dude happy to still be alive, definitely happier than he’s been considering all the decades of hustling without a definitive opportunities for reconciliation, restoration, relaxation or retirement from the game 😮💨. Nonetheless, Mike’s story provided the context to the Shine person: a disappointed child, became a broken adolescent, created ruthless, withdrawn and complex man. …a reflection of his sperm donor. The irony, three generations of hurt people still hurt people by their deferred, delayed, denied, dejected desires & dreams.
November 8, 2024
Title: Shine
Author: Aja
Publisher: She Loves Words Publishing (November 1, 2024)
Series: The Enigma Series
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Shine" by Aja
My Perception:
"Shine" was indeed a good story about Michael [Mike] 'Shine' Ferrel's life in Pittsburgh. Being brought up by his mom and having no father around, Mike's life was quite interesting regarding what he went through from birth, friendships, business, loved ones, and so much more. But the biggest thing in his life was making "money." After meeting the love of his life[Tamia], will money destroy the love he had endured so much from her? To find out how this author brings it out so well to the readers, you must pick up 'Shine' to see how this beautiful story will end.
Author: Aja
Publisher: She Loves Words Publishing (November 1, 2024)
Series: The Enigma Series
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Shine" by Aja
My Perception:
"Shine" was indeed a good story about Michael [Mike] 'Shine' Ferrel's life in Pittsburgh. Being brought up by his mom and having no father around, Mike's life was quite interesting regarding what he went through from birth, friendships, business, loved ones, and so much more. But the biggest thing in his life was making "money." After meeting the love of his life[Tamia], will money destroy the love he had endured so much from her? To find out how this author brings it out so well to the readers, you must pick up 'Shine' to see how this beautiful story will end.
October 23, 2025
SHINE
I've wanted to know more about Shine since this series started. The author did a great job giving Shine his own book. We get the good, bad, and ugly. He finally meets the girl who captures his heart, and things are good until there became a shift in their relationship. Shine and Tamia had the family and all the money and material things, but they lacked effective communication. Tamia was wrong in her betrayal, and I understand Shine's reaction to it. I love his growth as the years go by and how he was honest with his children about how he was also at fault in why things ended in his relationship with Tamia. I really enjoyed this book.
I've wanted to know more about Shine since this series started. The author did a great job giving Shine his own book. We get the good, bad, and ugly. He finally meets the girl who captures his heart, and things are good until there became a shift in their relationship. Shine and Tamia had the family and all the money and material things, but they lacked effective communication. Tamia was wrong in her betrayal, and I understand Shine's reaction to it. I love his growth as the years go by and how he was honest with his children about how he was also at fault in why things ended in his relationship with Tamia. I really enjoyed this book.
January 14, 2025
This Book was amazing
.As I was reading getting the back store on Shine . The was his father was not in in life and made his mom feel like it was all her fault she got pregnant. But he was married . Tamia really disappointed me . Shaina gave her the work she know what his job was and still tried to make it his fault. You have to read the book to understand a lot that went on with Shine . Thank you Aja this was an amazing read enjoyed from the first page to the last . Kinda enjoyed the last page…lol
.As I was reading getting the back store on Shine . The was his father was not in in life and made his mom feel like it was all her fault she got pregnant. But he was married . Tamia really disappointed me . Shaina gave her the work she know what his job was and still tried to make it his fault. You have to read the book to understand a lot that went on with Shine . Thank you Aja this was an amazing read enjoyed from the first page to the last . Kinda enjoyed the last page…lol
November 17, 2024
I love a good Origin Story! Shine is birthed from the Enigma Series that first gave us Smoke.
Maintaining a Hustlers life at home and keeping your street life in order is hard work. Shine gives us his good bad and ugly. Faces hard truths and quickly develops thick skin in the game. When you have so much money coming in and your family is straight nothing should go wrong right?! Happy life should mean happy Wife. Read to see how Shine and Tamia’s union came to be. Enjoy!
Maintaining a Hustlers life at home and keeping your street life in order is hard work. Shine gives us his good bad and ugly. Faces hard truths and quickly develops thick skin in the game. When you have so much money coming in and your family is straight nothing should go wrong right?! Happy life should mean happy Wife. Read to see how Shine and Tamia’s union came to be. Enjoy!
November 20, 2024
Love Never Dies
Understanding the man Shine truly was you had to know his past. The abandonment from his father and the secrets his mother held close to her chest helped to form him. The love of his life cheating and the betrayal of one of his men crushed him. This story will have you enraptured till the end. When you finish you will love the MAN SHINE is even more!!!! Aja does it again⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐!!! ❤🤗👑
Understanding the man Shine truly was you had to know his past. The abandonment from his father and the secrets his mother held close to her chest helped to form him. The love of his life cheating and the betrayal of one of his men crushed him. This story will have you enraptured till the end. When you finish you will love the MAN SHINE is even more!!!! Aja does it again⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐!!! ❤🤗👑
January 2, 2025
Loved it, ALL of it!
The good, bad and ugly. Shine's story is certainly one to read. He came from very humble beginnings, made a way for himself and his Momma. Then the girl of his dreams came along, unexpected but there she was. They were good together, until they weren't. I ain't mad he did, by his standards, what had to be done. By the time we reach the books end, I was in awe of the maturity of Shine aka Michael Ferrell. Excellent read, highly recommended.
The good, bad and ugly. Shine's story is certainly one to read. He came from very humble beginnings, made a way for himself and his Momma. Then the girl of his dreams came along, unexpected but there she was. They were good together, until they weren't. I ain't mad he did, by his standards, what had to be done. By the time we reach the books end, I was in awe of the maturity of Shine aka Michael Ferrell. Excellent read, highly recommended.
March 29, 2026
This book was not what I thought it was. I really enjoyed the storyline and all that went with it. I love how at the end shine was able to make peace with everything that happened. It was nice to hear the growth in the family. The narrator did a great job in telling this story. It was nice to hear the mention of Smoke and Maestro in this book. I would definitely recommend. thank you, Ms. Aja for sharing your gift.
August 9, 2025
I enjoyed this story. I read the series a while ago. I think was excited when I saw Smoke appear. Then a realized all this happened before Smoke. But I loved Shine. He had it all money, love, and power. Things he wished he and his mother when he was a kid. He was so focused on expanding his empire that he might lose it through a betrayal.
November 5, 2024
Everlasting Love
This was an excellent love lost and found again. Thanks for bringing Smoke and his fine ass back. I love it when OG's school the youngster about life and the game.
Hurt makes you have a different perspective on your life.
This was an excellent love lost and found again. Thanks for bringing Smoke and his fine ass back. I love it when OG's school the youngster about life and the game.
Hurt makes you have a different perspective on your life.
November 6, 2024
Great reac
I loved Shine's story. I like that he tried to do the right things he thought was needed to be successful but in the end he realized all the success Is not everything built on money. I was glad to see Smoke and Eli make appearance. Tamia just wanted love.
I loved Shine's story. I like that he tried to do the right things he thought was needed to be successful but in the end he realized all the success Is not everything built on money. I was glad to see Smoke and Eli make appearance. Tamia just wanted love.
November 30, 2024
Money VS Love
Michael AKA "Shine" believed money was the key to happiness. Warned by his mother, Smoke, A day late and dollars later he see the error of his ways.
Michael AKA "Shine" believed money was the key to happiness. Warned by his mother, Smoke, A day late and dollars later he see the error of his ways.
March 30, 2025
Shine's story is captivating and well told. If you are looking for a traditional HEA this is not that; but that does not take away from the story.
September 23, 2025
❤️
Ooohhh I loved the backstory! I was NOT expecting things to play out the way they did. Thoroughly enjoyed it!
Ooohhh I loved the backstory! I was NOT expecting things to play out the way they did. Thoroughly enjoyed it!
January 31, 2026
Lost vision
When does the thing he felt was most important suddenly have no value or not as much value. He can't change the past however just maybe he can change the future.
When does the thing he felt was most important suddenly have no value or not as much value. He can't change the past however just maybe he can change the future.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews