Better Than Okay

Love Always #1

by Jacinta Howard

“Sometimes it’s not whether or not you survive, but HOW you survive. I guess that might be the thing that makes you the person you are... How you survive.”

When Miami music writer Destiny Michaels learned her childhood friend, the always cool and collected Brian Jace, was moving from their hometown of Phoenix to Miami, she wanted to do cartwheels across Ocean Drive.

Brian has always been able to counter Destiny’s annoying tendency to overthink things, and he’s the only person she knows with a love for music that’s as intense as hers. However, when he arrives, she quickly realizes there’s been a major shift in their formally platonic relationship. And no matter how scared she is about taking things to the next level, their feelings only intensify.

But just as she begins to believe that real love can exist outside of sappy romantic comedies, Destiny is forced to question everything she thinks she knows about life, including her new feelings for Brian.

She soon discovers that while we can’t control some things that happen to us, the power of unconditional love, once accepted, can make life better than okay.

Genres: Romance, African American Romance, Contemporary Romance, New Adult, Friends To Lovers

First published May 1, 2014

About the author

Jacinta Howard is an Atlanta-based culture journalist, editor and author with more than a decade of experience across genres of media. Her bylined articles have appeared at Eater, Atlanta magazine, Shondaland, Denver Westword, BET, and Rock The Bells, LL Cool J’s media company, where she served as managing editor. Jacinta’s 2022 article about the chicken wings served at Magic City, Atlanta’s world-famous strip club, was nominated for an American Society of Magazine Editors Award, and her novels have been featured in USA Today, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Book Riot and OkayAfrica. She digs summertime, flip flops, old fashioneds, deep bass lines, good lyrics, goofy jokes, and kind people. She also believes there’s an Andre 3000 lyric to fit any situation. Her happy place is hanging on the beach somewhere with her family, preferably with a good book and a dope playlist.

Reviews

[Carol [Goodreads Addict] · Rating 4 out of 5]

RATING: 4.5 SHINING STARS

Better Than Okay is Jacinta Howard’s debut novel, and what an entry she has made. Don’t you love it when you start a book thinking it’s going to be about one thing and then it completely surprises you and turns out to be completely different? That is exactly what happened for me with this book.



Destiny Michaels is 23 years old and is a music reviewer for UMusic Magazine. After college, she is trying to make it in a very unstable field in Miami Beach, Florida. She lives near her cousin, Dorian. Destiny, Dorian and Brian grew up together, all best friends. Dorian and Brian know Destiny better than anyone else. Brian’s family was very unstable so he lived at Destiny’s house as much as his own growing up. But, they were just best friends. They never crossed “that” line. When Brian announced that he got a new job in Miami and is moving there, she is thrilled. But when he arrives, their friendship has changed. There is something different in his eyes. She felt different too. Her stomach would feel strange and her heart would beat just a little bit faster when he was around.

“He was the best part of her day. That with his crooked grin and thoughtful eyes he’d morphed into the personification of comfort for her. He felt like home.”



Just when Destiny is starting to believe that she might just get her very own fairy tale, her life takes an unthinkable turn. And just like that, everything changes.

“We’re gonna be okay, love.” He murmured. “You just need to trust me.”

Destiny no longer feels like she has anything to give, that she is no longer whole. Will she ever be able to give to Brian what he deserves? For me this book is about the healing strength of love. I fell in love with Destiny right from the start. She is strong and determined and silly and cute. I loved her and Brian together. And after what happened, she did everything right and refused to let it ruin her. But even with the love and support of her friends and family, it is a slow process. And she is forced to question everything. This book is a highlight lover’s dream. I have so many beautiful quotes highlighted and wish I could include them all. I am so thankful to Jacinta Howard for providing me with a copy of her book for an honest review. I loved every page and most definitely look forward to her next book.



“I am, you know…yours,” she breathed softly.”

“Love stays. Love endures. Love covers. Love chooses. Love isn’t weak at all. Love is strength.”

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

An APB Book Perspective Review.....



"Love makes you strong. Love covers your weaknesses. Love fills all of the tiny cracks in you that would be imperceptible to anyone else. Love is there even when you think you don’t want it or need it. Love stays. Love endures. Love covers. Love chooses. Love isn’t weak at all. Love is strength. And if God is love, and love is all of those things, I think that just maybe—well, I KNOW I’ll be okay. Actually… I’ll be better than okay"...... this is my first book by this author and it was AMAZINGLY REFRESHING ...true love in Ink .. don't miss out this is a Great One!!!

[Kendra Lola Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

MAGNIFICENT!! This is by far one of the best books I’ve read all year!!!! It’s gripping, intelligent and swooningly perfect!

***Received from author in exchange for an honest review***

To be honest here, when I first started this book I wasn't really sure what to think. Sure the story sounded interesting but there wasn't that much out there as far as reviews for the book, so I went into reading it with no impression of what to expect and so on.

Now, having finished it, I realize what a horrible fact that this is. THIS BOOK IS MAGNIFICENT!! I’m actually saddened that more people have not read this book. It is shameful that it is not a NYTimes or USAToday Best Seller! I’m not kidding here, this book is wonderful!!! It is most certainly the kind of book I would add to my paperback bookshelf.

The Story:

The synopsis does a great job of giving you an overview of the book, so I won’t go into detail but I will say this…

Sometimes when I’m reading books I try and imagine how plausible the story is. Better Than Okay is one of those books where you can easily imagine it happening to someone. There aren't no million or billionaires to save the day. This is about how real life is and can be. In fact, I don’t think I've ever related to a character so much in my life as I have with Destiny.

The Characters:

Destiny...

Gosh I love that girl. If I could be like any book character I would want to be like her. Yes, there are times I wanted to shake some sense into her, but I understood why she was reacting the way she was. Destiny was never so annoying that I wanted to throw the book across the room. She was smart and chose to proceed with caution in her life. God I respect the hell out of that! She’s so easy to love and with all that she goes through, you can’t help but feel for her or want to hug her. What Destiny undergoes is just... Wow! <3 her!

Brian...

Good golly Brian! <3 Brian. He could possibly be the perfect man if he were real. I’m not kidding here people. He works hard, takes care of his mother, sister and Destiny. ALL WITHOUT COMPLAINING! He’s emotional (not in a bad way) and loves with all his being. I wouldn’t call him alpha but he’s certainly confident and not afraid to express himself or stand up for those he loves. PERFECT! Destiny and Brian had me in an emotional melted mess many times.

Dorian and Raven…

These two make me smile. Separate they are funny and I can't help but laugh when I think about them. When they are together, I can’t help but think… “What is going on with them? Why are they not together? Am I reading too much into them?” I dunno. Nonetheless I love them. They're Destiny's pillars who know just when to give her that kick in the butt when she needs it. :)

As Jacinta Howard’s debut novel she has greatly impressed me. With as well written as it is, I'm shocked it's her first novel. I am a fan and very much look forward to her future works. From Better Than Okay I can already see that she is a talented writer and I can’t wait to see what she has coming out in the near future. GREAT JOB Jacinta! <3

[Delaney Diamond · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, I can’t believe this is Jacinta Howard’s first novel. You ever think you’re going to just check out a book and then get dragged into the story? That’s what happened when I read the sample of Better Than Okay. Stephen King said, “Strive to make the reader forget they’re reading a story,” and she accomplished that. Once I started reading, I was all in.

This follows the friends-to-lovers theme, and I fell in love with this couple. Even though we only had the POV of the heroine, I didn’t feel cheated. The story is about Destiny Michaels and quote “her oldest, best friend,” Brian Jace. We get to see them interact as friends, such as texting each other song lyrics and having to guess the song it’s from. But being best friends is not what Brian wants. He wants more, and slowly Destiny grows to accept her feelings for him, too.

But during the course of the story, an unthinkable tragedy strikes Destiny, and what does Brian do? He hangs in there. Steady as a rock. Seriously, the man has the patience of Job, because it certainly wasn’t easy for Destiny or Brian. I liked the way the author handled the situation, and I like the slow progression of the two of them coming together.

Better Than Okay is romantic, sexy without being tawdry, sweet, and even humorous in some parts (compliments of Destiny’s snark and cousin Dorian). I really, really enjoyed this story, and I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys romance and stories about young love.

[Kizzy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Jacinta's first book and I was honored that she asked me to review her book. I loved it! Her writing is so good and I felt connected to the characters in the book, which is always a plus :)I loved the music aspect of it too. This had like a Brown Sugar feel to it. (Great movie by the way :))

Destiny and Brian have been friends forever. She lives in Miami but finds out he will be moving there too for a job. I love their friendship and the music references. The other characters in the book were great too. Dorian and Raven were awesome.(Can't wait for their book!!)

As Destiny and Brian spend more time together, you can tell that they are starting to have feelings for each other, but something happens that had me shocked. I felt for the both of them and was anxious to see what would happen next.

Brian was a sweetheart and you can see the love he had for Destiny as he is there for here. She made me want to shake her a few times but I understand where she was coming from. Talk about an emotional rollercoaster. I was rooting for those two from the beginning. Will they make it? you have to read it to find out!

I look forward to more from Jacinta :) She's an amazing up and coming author. I will be reading her next book Happiness in Jersey next :)

Do yourself a favor and read this book. You will love it!

[Sophie Sealy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was asked to read and review this book for a Romance site. This is NOT romance. Its is cute, serious, sweet, brilliantly written, realistic BUT not romance.

When I first began reading this book I wanted to put the book down...... for good. It mirror a movie I watched and lacked originality. The longtime friend falling in love with their friend blah blah blah. The plot is always an interesting one to read but it started out so predictable. Then the unpredictable happened. Life happened. Read how Destiny transforms from innocent to victim to victor and how Brian is that one of a kind special guy.

This is my first time reading anything from the writer and she can write. I love discovering writers who can put the unexplainable, unnamable (that's a real word) in words, makes the reader snapped their fingers and say "that's what the is". Good job Jacinta.

[Babbling Chatter Reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am typically not a fan of stories that are written in 3rd person POV but for this book I will make an exception. Destiny and Brian's story was well written and detailed that I was able to easily see, understand, and feel what the characters were going through when their relationship begins to grow into something more.

Just when I thought this story was about another new relationship starting to work itself out a curve ball was thrown in the mix. In turn, a whirlwind of questions comes to play and the constant back and forth of doubts keeps coming up along the way. This is a story of survival and whether the love for each other is worth it.

Overall it was a sweet read and I recommend all to check it out.

[Ciarra Hodges · Rating 5 out of 5]

I tend to be a tough critic, but I really enjoyed this. I found myself very engaged in the story whenever I was reading it. I did not find any pointless moments or dialogue; which, I appreciate so much. Sometimes when trying to make a piece of work relatable, writers will add unnecessary content. "Better Than Ok" is definitely more than just a love story. I love the mystery in the first two chapters. It was establishing, but it did not give away too much. I wondered who Brian was and what he wanted- those questions were answered right on time.

All of your characters were relatable. One who is weird and misunderstood, but so likable. One who everyone looks up to, but doesn't quite have it all together either. One who works hard because that is all he knows how to do. One who is passionate about her work, but still looks forward to getting time off to clear her mind of it. One who no one takes seriously. Mothers who understand the effect they have on their children and the burdens they carry. Random girls who try too hard. The reality of the creative work field and its downfalls. It all came together very nicely.

I absolutely loved the fact that Destiny did not give Loud Girl a name. It said just how unimportant she really is. I loved even more that Destiny is clumsy enough to let it slip out the first time she mentions Black Dress Girl to Brian. As we see her grow, she deliberately calls her Loud Girl and I LOVE that.

Brian and Destiny's relationship seemed all too perfect in the beginning so I was so glad that a bomb was dropped! And it was a bomb! Just like in real life, it came out of nowhere. It was not like any other books or shows that have annoyingly present foreshadowing. I had no idea what was going to happen. The line about "familiar eyes" did it for me! I was immediately intrigued and more interested in the story.

I was probably way too invested because right after I read about the bomb, a friend asked if I wanted to go to the beach. For two seconds I was Destiny and I did not want to do anything but loathe. I reminded myself that nothing happened to me. LOL I cant say that others will respond as dramatically. Since studying the art of getting in touch with a character is my career, I cannot watch a movie or read a book without automatically trying to relate. But that is why I enjoyed Destiny so much. I could empathize with her.

"BlankBlank" Destiny was pissing me off. But that is what I needed her to do for me to stay engaged. She raised questions for me and she made me feel close to her... sort of the way Brian felt. I wanted to take care of her and heal her wounds. She had to realize that she had to want to heal her own wounds for her to feel like just Destiny again.

I was glad that after the bomb, the story was still a love story. You made a statement about said 'bomb', but the story was not consumed with it. There was still so much more to explore. Vanessa (Tricia) was mentioned when she needed to be and it did not turn into a book about psychology- though it was very psychological. I know my run on sentences are probably driving the readers crazy! LOL I am ranting.

I felt so many emotions throughout the story. The emotional journey was well thought out and implemented quite nicely. I laughed so hard so many times. The comic relief was beautiful. The sub plots- beautiful.

I liked the awkwardly flirty relationship between Raven & Dorian. It's like one of those things that everyone goes through, but no one talks about. That was a nice addition to their quatro.

There's so much to be said, but I won't talk your ear off. READ THE BOOK! Then move on to "Happiness In Jersey"- still in love with the male lead from that one!

Jacinta HowardBetter Than OkayBetter Than Okay

[Lustful Literature · Rating 4 out of 5]

**MEGAN'S REVIEW**

*4.5 I Want Brian Stars*

Well well well!!! I must say this was a pleasant, surprising, very lovely 3rd person story.
A story in third person is getting harder and harder to grab me, keep me- make me happy.

Better Than Okay can now be added to the small list of 3rd person that I've enjoyed. I felt like I was with them in the room as Brian and Destiny re-connected. Although, they've had an internet connection, them finally seeing each other as time has past has showed they've grown into adults. Rather good looking ones, at that!

The instant they see each other the old familiar friendly banter began. Flirting and teasing like childhood friends. It made me feel like I was already rooting for them as a couple. They had an easy way about them that didn't seem stressed or forced.

I felt like I was there every time they were together. I felt the goose bumps on my arms and butterflies in my belly.

"It helped me figured out what I really wanted."
"And what was that?"
"Who, Who I wanted."

"I'm not sure what this is, Brian. But it's like, sudden. And new."
"For you,"
"What does that mean?"
"This, it's new for you. Not for me."

I have a major crush on Brian. Time makes people grow. Brian and Destiny have grown into adults and he knows what he wants. He is amazing. He gives her space but doesn't go traipsing off like a little boy who had a toy stolen. He's giving her the opportunity to get used to the idea but BUT BUT BUT...still being himself with her. Which is the nice, smooth, flirty Brian. I love that Brian. I love any Brian. When she wanted him gone he wasn't, he was there. Always there. Always what she needed and deep down wanted. He was her calm and her storm (you know what I mean)

"Destiny, You are so..."
"Tropical Skittle-like?"
"You."

****Major book boyfriend alert****
Totally serious I want a Brian!!

"And so you know, I don't remember what that girl had on at the bar, But I remember you had on a pair of jeans and a black tank top thing and your hair was up with little pieces hanging down and you looked so good when you opened the door I wanted to..."
"You wanted to what?"
"I wanted to show you exactly what I've wanted to do for a long time."

Now this wasn't all love and bunnies even though I don't truly think you know how much I loved Brian but this was about Destiny dealing with things she had no control over. Learning to be and love herself before take the leap. Brian being perfect :) was there for. There were many times Destiny broke my heart. She was dealt a terrible hand but I think how she reacted was real and raw and believable.

"I'm sorry, I want to be better for you... But I think I'm broken now. And I'm breaking you, too."

I really really, (gosh, I could say ten reallys) loved this book!!! Read it and I promise you'll agree!!!

I received a complimentary copy from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Romance Novels in Color · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a sweet and realistic love story, a story of overdue love. Brian Jace is in love with his best friend, Destiny Michaels. He has been secretly in love with her for as long as he can remember.

The story starts off predictably with him making small moves to reveal his true feelings for her and getting her to feel them out as a couple without pushing and scaring her away. Destiny has been burned in the past. She is now guarded, protective of her heart and emotions. Afraid of the unknown. Just when she decides maybe they both can make a go at a relationship together, she’s met with tragedy.

Now the aftermath has to be faced. We begin the journey with Destiny. With her spirit shattered, she learns to cope and we wait to see how she continues to move ahead in spite of. Brian is there, he’s always there, and he’s that force that anyone going through anything needs in their corner. Love is patient, love is kind and so is Brian. Can Destiny allow him in? Can she admit that there isn’t anyone more deserving to be in her life but Brian?

The author is brilliant with describing that white noise: the part of the book where conversation isn’t taking place but you are in tune with the story. She gives the characters dimension; she brings them to life in a unique way. To the outside world, Destiny can appear selfish, but the reader understands and allows her to be. And when Destiny’s heart breaks, the reader’s heart breaks, as well. It is difficult not to cry with and for her. You pray Brian is just a little more patient so that he is present during her breakthrough.

-Reviewed by Sophie

[Danielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Jacinta Howard gave me the opportunity to read her book and afterward honestly report what I think.

And I can say that I'm definitely in love with the book. It's writing and it's plot line were interesting and phenomenal.

It is fundamentally a love story and yet so much more! The book really makes readers reflect on their own vulnerabilities and insecurities with love. Howard also deals with sensitive topics in very compassionate and educated ways (that's what I'll say in order to leave no spoilers!).

I really empathized with all of the main characters. Especially Destiny and Brian. Brian is a saint. The "ideal" guy without being corny or overly hyperbolic. Destiny is very flawed and sometimes you just wanna kick her (or at least gently nudge her) but that's what made her human and so compelling to me as a reader.

I'd love to learn more about Dorian (maybe in a part 2?) but this is a great stand alone book and I'd definitely recommend it! Great job Jacinta! And I'll be looking for your books in stores one day!

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am reviewing this book for the APB Perspective. I have to say that this was outstanding, this book was a guilty pleasure for me I stayed up all night reading until Dawn. I love authors that write so incredibly well that I can't put the book down or shall I say can't put my Kindle down. I loved all of the main characters Destiny reminded me of my own daughter who is about graduate college and start her future. She is so much like her it was is scary!!! I loved the characterization, these character were not weak or shallow and at many points in the book I was feeling what the the characters were feeling. It was an emotional roller coaster I laughed, I cried, I cheered for the characters like they were real people. I know this will be a book that I will re-read many times over. Jacinta Howard has a new life long fan. I highly reccomend this book to all my friends. I rated this book 5 stars I wish I could give it more than five.

[Read Candy Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

Better Than okay is the best young romance novel I’ve read this year (maybe ever). Sometimes writers try a little too hard to make the characters hip. Jacinta must really be this cool in real life. The whole book was so genuine. The characters were realistic and relatable. Destiny and Brian’s relationship was so special. Lately, it seems like every lead male character is crazy handsome and a great big jerk. Brian was like a breath of fresh air. He wasn’t perfect but he was truly good. Destiny was very relatable to me. She is a woman in her mid twenties trying to figure things out. Jacinta’s style is so easy going and smooth. The dialogue and conversations in the story seemed authentic. I loved her musical references all throughout the book.

My only con is that there wasn’t any trigger warning in the description of this book. There is some sexual assault in this book.

Overall, this book was a great read

[Ang · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was magnificent. If I could give it more than 5 stars I would. The author did an amazing job at allowing us as the reader to get a glimpse into the mind and heart of the challenges Destiny faced. Through the words expressed I could feel all of her emotions. When you experience some of the things that Destiny went through, you definitely need an excellent support system. That she had in family and close friends.

I loved Brian. I loved his relationship with Destiny. I loved how he loved her. He was genuine and patient. Truly any woman would want a guy like Brian.

Their journey and triumph together made for a wonderful story. This is what true love is all about.

This book is a must read, you will not be disappointed.

[--karen Green-berry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love Destiny and Brian's story. I really love authors who can write a story that captiivates readers even when it's dealing with tough subjects. This author's first published novel does just that and, even though it is not a story about crazy sex, it is a wonderful story about friendship, overcoming adversity and being triumphant in the end.

The relationship between the primary and secondary characters were silly and fun but the love is always there. I would love to see Dorian and Raven's story whether together or separate stories. it was well written and I am happy Destiny and Brian got their HEA.

[Jennifer Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a great read! I could not put it down. It felt as though I was watching a movie. It was full of description and it made me feel like I was a part of the story. And who would have thought it would end the way that it did...if you like a page turner...this is the perfect book. I give it five stars because it has an excellent story line that is unlike most books, it also is full of detail to make you really picture what is going on. When you read the book you will feel as though you can relate to the main character.

[Tsunami Robinson]

This book is definitely a good read. Music,life,love! What a wonderful combination well put together to keep me turning pages. Chapter by chapter I fell deeper and deeper into the Characters. By the end of the book I felt like they were close friends of mine. This is the kind of story I would love to see a movie made from it. Two thumbs up!

[Nasiruddin Al-Mahi · Rating 5 out of 5]

BRAVA Ms Howard!! What a Great story to debut as an up & coming author!!

Better Than Okay is well...Thankfully better than it's title. A well written 'friends to lovers', love story will get me every time and Blessedly, this unexpected surprise fits my "well written" criteria perfectly, in my opinion.

A really good friend of mine, highly recommended this book to me. So, I picked it up & only could/would put it down when my eyes became too heavy to stand on the toothpicks I used to prop under my eyelids. My friend Deloris, told me that I was going to love Brian and damnit! I fell in love with him "Before the second shooooow" LOL

Anyhoo, Destiny and Brian had this unconsciously magnetic chemistry between them. Even their friendship oozed love. I could feel his unconditional love for her almost immediately. My friend Victoria said it was "AMAZINGLY REFRESHING" & I couldn't agree more. Although there were times when I wanted to donkey kick Destiny in the head...I still greatly empathized with her situation and the unfair circumstances with which she had to deal. All of the secondary characters were great but Raven and Dorian were hilarious, caring, and a wonderful addition to the story line.
HOWEVER I'm putting it out there now...

I desperately need Dorian & Raven's book, in my life, like YESTERDAY!! But I will settle for tomorrow, thanks in advance ;) I have already start to hunt you down & harass...uh...er...contact & gently persuade you (hourly, daily, weekly) for a Clarence Jenkins & Chipmunk story!!


I truly enjoyed BTOk. Ms Howard, you have awesome talent. Please keep up the great work. I look forward to more of your work and of course, Dorian & Raven's story very soon. Thanks for sharing your gift of writing with my love of reading.

~Enjoy

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's hard to believe that this is Jacinta's debut novel. I really really loved Better Than Okay.


Both Brian and Destiny are hands down my favorite book couple thus far.


Destiny and Brian have known each other since they were much younger. Along with Destiny's cousin, who is Brian's best friend. Anyways, on a trip to New Orleans for a work project, Destiny meets up with Brian, who is also their for work purposes. Things between them are just.... different. Brian is giving off vibes that Destiny cant really read.


While catching up Brian lets Destiny know that he'll be moving, because of his job, to the same town Destiny is currently living in. To say Destiny is happy, is an understatement.


As they both get used to each others company again, Destiny starts developing feelings, that she didn't know she had, for Brian.


While she is getting used to the idea of her and Brian being more than friends, a horrible incident happens to Destiny that changes her forever.


She is no longer the person Brian, or anyone for that matter, knew. She's distraught, empty, broken, and full of hate. She was robbed of the most precious thing know to anyone.


Sometimes certain things happen to us as people, that some people just cant recover from. This was that for Destiny.


Even though Destiny knows that she loved Brian, she feels like he deserved more than her brokenness.


Without giving anymore away, I just want to say that Better Than Okay was an amazing read. It was the perfect story of love; discovering it, understanding it, cherishing it, and giving it back in return.


Jacinta, I truly enjoyed your writing, and look forward to reading more from you. You did an amazing job with this 5 star read.


You have gained a forever fan in me!


<3 JMAC

[Deena · Rating 5 out of 5]

After several of my FB friends started raving about this book (as well as Happiness in Jersey), I decided to go ahead and see what all the fuss was about. I have so many books on my Kindle waiting to be read, and I'm typically don't feel the need to read whatever everybody else is, but the buzz about these books was getting pretty big. Friday was a slow day at work, and I wanted to read something 'different', so I took the plunge. When I first started reading and saw how young Destiny was, I was tempted to throw in the towel. I didn't think I would find a story about young people the same age as my kids all that interesting; but I kept on reading, because the author draws you right in, pretty much from Page 1. I liked Destiny and Brian from the very beginning, and could see that Brian was too in love. I was a little anxious, though, because I knew that there was going to be something big to come between them, and assumed it would be the usual thing (another woman, some crazy misunderstanding, Destiny wasn't ready, etc.). When I tell you, that their 'something big' was unexpected, please believe me! I was floored! The author did a wonderful job of taking us through Destiny's recovery. I loved the way her friends and family rallied around her, and the pure disdain she had for both the journal and her counselor, lol. Very well done!

I loved this book. The author is definitely one to watch, IMO. Looking forward to reading more from her.

p.s. Anybody else intrigued by Dorian and Raven? I couldn't figure out if they really liked each other, or just enjoyed flirting. I liked them together, though. I'm thinking they might need a story *hint, hint*

[Meka♥books · Rating 4 out of 5]

My introduction to Jacinta Howard was with Happiness in Jersey and the character Zay quickly became by fantasy book boyfriend. I thought no other book boyfriend could compare to Zay until I met Brian in Better Than Okay which happens to be the author's first novel.

Better Than Okay follows a trio of best friends: Dorian, Destiny, and Brian. Dorian and Destiny are cousins and they've know Brian since elementary school. Dorian and Brian have always been protectors for Destiny- keeping the male population in check and at bay when needed. Brian and Destiny's relationship has always been a comfortable and easy going one but the dynamic changes when Brian develops feelings for Destiny and she realizes she feels the same. Well... the ease of the trio for the most part remains the same until trouble erupts in the relationship making cousin/best friend a referee in their new relationship.

Better Than Okay is a compelling read with swoon worthy male leads. Kudos to Jacinta Howard for establishing strong characters readers can relate to. I loved how supportive/patient Brian was of Destiny after her attack.

Better Than Okay is a book worth checking out. On to book 2, More Than Always.

[Mary Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Destiny is fiercely independent and devoted to the music world. She is working hard to build a career as a writer in a world that no longer wants print materials. Brian is her brother's best friend and she has known him for years. A chance trip to New Orleans where they find themselves at the same time allows Brian to follow his heart and show Destiny that he wants to be more than friends. As this new relationship grows, the unthinkable happens to Destiny and she now has to find a way back to herself. Brian is amazing as the compassionate, patient and devoted boyfriend. He has loved her for years but how long can he keep this up? Will Destiny ever get past her trauma and let him in? Or will he have to find a way to move on without her? I have to be honest, I didn't see this one coming when I started the book (I won't give it away) but WOW, what a compelling story. You feel everything Destiny is going through and struggling to overcome. I may have wanted her to move faster but that's not how life works. Brian is just fabulous. Together their a great pair if Destiny can get past her issues.

[Brynette Turner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book I've read by this author, and I must say that I am once again extremely impressed with the way she creates characters that are real, reactions that are believable, and situations that accurately mimic the circumstances of real life. I love the way Destiny's story proceeds -- every minute from the first few paragraphs to the end show a young woman in transition who is thrown a horrible curve in the middle of finding something beautiful. Now she must spend the rest of her journey learning which will be stronger, fear or love. Oh, this is truly a struggle we all face. I love the fact that, while Brian gives Destiny strength, he is not super-human and has insecurities of his own that , once again, reflect realistic reactions from someone in his situation. This is a beautiful story of people finding out how far they will bend without breaking. Ms. Howard tackles the subject beautifully with incredible skill and sensitivity. She is quickly becoming an author whose books I will never hesitate to purchase because I know they will always give a well-developed story with characters that I can emotionally connect to. Thank you, Ms. Howard.

[Deloris · Rating 5 out of 5]

APB Book Perspective Book Reviews

I was asked to read this book by the author for a review This book right here!! Jacinta Howard is a new author but you would never know that reading "Better Than Okay." I loved this book , I loved the music and Brian and Destiny's friendship. Every time Brian looked at Destiny I felt it, I knew why he moved to the town she was living in before she did because, the way the author wrote him looking at her, I could tell he loved her. But sometimes loving someone is not enough , you have to go deeper, put them first, and be patient , Brian did that . When I read romance novels ,I always believe that if the author makes me fall in love with the male lead , she has done a great job. Well I fell in love with Brian and Dorian, and Raven and Destiny, are women I feel like I would choose for friends. Destiny recovered from a horrific event , with love of friends , family, with music and with Brian. I found myself smiling and in tears reading this book I highly recommend it to anyone who loves to read about love.

[1-Click Addict Support Group · Rating 5 out of 5]

Destiny is starting to live her life; she has a job she likes and friends that have been there for her since the beginning. The only thing missing is love in her life, but she's in no hurry yet.

Brian Jace is Destiny's oldest friend, one that she's always trusted and counted on but lately she's thought a little more about him...

I won't give away what happens in Better Than Okay but it leaves Destiny a shell of herself and in a hole that it seems like she will never be able get out of, even with the help of loved ones.

Speaking from experience, I know how Destiny felt because I experienced that, and I felt alone, unable to love, to be loved or to be helped. I realized that's what I must have looked like when I went through it, yet I'm thankful for all the love and support I had, just like Destiny. And because of those that never gave up on us, we were able to keep on moving and living.

Thank you, Ms. Howard, for a beautiful story of survival, resilience, patience, kindness and endless love. ~ Kara, 5 Emotionally Beautiful stars

[ReGina · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an impressive debut for Jacinta Howard. Initially, I had prepared myself for a one-note story that would occasionally go flat or sharp. However, Better Than Okay takes some unforeseen turns that give layers to this story, creating a true melody. A story about whether friends can become lovers has to manage the things that life throws our way, whether we have the ability to juggle them all or not.

I wonder why this wasn't written in first person, but I was still able to keep up with the protagonist, Destiny, and her emotions pretty well. At first, it was hard to keep straight who all the men were, but that became crystal clear just a few chapters in. Brian has to have the patience of Job; I was looking for him to have enough much sooner. But it all works together and provides a really engaging, entertaining read. I will be looking forward to seeing with Ms. Howard brings us next.

[Wilki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Destiny has been sidekick to her cousin Dorian and his friend, Brian since school days. But they're all grown up now and just maybe being friends with Destiny just isn't enough for Brian anymore. Though hesitant with her heart, Destiny senses a shift too. When the unthinkable happens and Destiny's world is left in shambles, will Brian be her saving grace?


I am in awe of this book. It was very appealing to my emotions and undeniably thought provoking. This storyline left my heart pounding and stomach churning. Like I was right there in each waking moment with the characters. The chemistry between Destiny and Brian was so pure and irresistable. Just utterly sweet and in times of great distress, sooo endearing. I am so happy I took a chance on this author with her 2nd published book, Happiness in Jersey. This read gave a diff feel but tugged my heart strings all the same.

Oh..I took so long to finish it because I was stalling for part 2 (lol)...my next read!!!

[Shay · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

Got a new book boyfriend and a potentially new favorite author! I will be adding a lot of Jacinta Howard books to my TBR!

[Rachel's Willful Thoughts · Rating 3 out of 5]

Destiny Michaels and Brian Jace have been friends forever. A tragedy ultimately forces them to redefine their relationship in Jacinta Howard's Better Than Okay.

While more sweet than sensual, I found that the storyline got better as it progressed. Some readers may have difficulty with the inclusion of a violent act, but the author does an excellent job ensuring that it plays a central role in the story.

Ms. Howard excels in her character development, especially Destiny as she works through a number of challenges. I always like to figure out the connection between a book's title and the content. In this case, the author made a fantastic choice since this story features a renewal of spirit.

I found the book to be a quick read perfect for a weekend.

[Cheryl Henson · Rating 5 out of 5]

APB Book Perspective Book Reviews

This is the first book I have read by Jacinta Howard and I will surely be back for more. This story is not in my usual genre, but I sure did like it. Howard is a wonderful character crafter. This story really gets in deep under the skin and into the souls of the characters. It made me cry more than once.

The themes of this book are: trust in your abilities, trust in others, but above all, trust in the Lord. An amazing story with an amazing purpose. Better than Okay is a page-turner from beginning to the end. And for those who crave romance, the electricity between Brian and Destiny is uplifting.