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Don't Play Bout Me: A STANDALONE Urban Fiction Romance
Life has been a relentless storm for Kavalli, each tragedy crashing over her like a wave, leaving her battered and bruised. Just when it seems like the sun might finally peek through the clouds, the unthinkable happens, and her world is shattered once again. Years later, she's learned to make peace with the wreckage of her dreams. Her life may not be what she once imagined, but she clings to the hope that those who’ve wronged her will one day face the consequences of their actions.
Meanwhile, Snoh's future has always been mapped out for him. Raised in a world where duty outweighs passion, he knows love is a luxury few can afford. Even though a fleeting glimpse of a young Kavalli once stole his breath away, Snoh remains resolute in his commitment to marry for obligation, not desire.
Both Kavalli and Snoh have carefully crafted their destinies, but when fate pulls them together in the most unexpected of ways, they find themselves standing at the altar, bound by words neither of them ever saw coming.
Meanwhile, Snoh's future has always been mapped out for him. Raised in a world where duty outweighs passion, he knows love is a luxury few can afford. Even though a fleeting glimpse of a young Kavalli once stole his breath away, Snoh remains resolute in his commitment to marry for obligation, not desire.
Both Kavalli and Snoh have carefully crafted their destinies, but when fate pulls them together in the most unexpected of ways, they find themselves standing at the altar, bound by words neither of them ever saw coming.
417 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 20, 2024
557 people are currently reading
308 people want to read
About the author
Kellz Kimberly
100 books319 followerstext KKP to 22828 for updates on new releases, Sneak Peeks, & so much more.
Kellz Kimberly 24, fell in love with urban fiction after reading 'Baby Girl' by Jihad. The was only the first of many urban fiction novels she fell in love with. Eventually Kellz took her love for reading it and redirected it to a pen & paper. Dropping her first book in 2014 Kellz Kimberly has been building a name for herself ever since. With 27 books under her belt & 9 of them being Amazon Urban Fiction Number One Best Seller, Kellz Kimberly is just getting started.
She is slowly but surly taking the Urban fiction world over by storm. She recently took home the AAMBC BreakOut Author of The Year award, solidifying her as a force to be reckon with. This is only the start for Kellz Kimberly, she is always working and coming with new material to give readers then same feeling she got when she read her first urban fiction book.
Not only is she an author but she is a publisher as well. She works with her authors to help them pursue their dreams and encourages them to tell their story in a form of another story.
At only 24 she has accomplished a lot but she's nowhere near done with her list of goals. For her writing is so much more than just telling a story. It's about being able to have a reader full in love with a set of characters so much that they feel invested in the book. For her that is the greatest feeling of.
The best way to sum up Kellz Kimberly is 'She Writes, She Grinds, She Slays"
Kellz Kimberly 24, fell in love with urban fiction after reading 'Baby Girl' by Jihad. The was only the first of many urban fiction novels she fell in love with. Eventually Kellz took her love for reading it and redirected it to a pen & paper. Dropping her first book in 2014 Kellz Kimberly has been building a name for herself ever since. With 27 books under her belt & 9 of them being Amazon Urban Fiction Number One Best Seller, Kellz Kimberly is just getting started.
She is slowly but surly taking the Urban fiction world over by storm. She recently took home the AAMBC BreakOut Author of The Year award, solidifying her as a force to be reckon with. This is only the start for Kellz Kimberly, she is always working and coming with new material to give readers then same feeling she got when she read her first urban fiction book.
Not only is she an author but she is a publisher as well. She works with her authors to help them pursue their dreams and encourages them to tell their story in a form of another story.
At only 24 she has accomplished a lot but she's nowhere near done with her list of goals. For her writing is so much more than just telling a story. It's about being able to have a reader full in love with a set of characters so much that they feel invested in the book. For her that is the greatest feeling of.
The best way to sum up Kellz Kimberly is 'She Writes, She Grinds, She Slays"
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
August 30, 2025
⭐️⭐️
HEAVY on the unpopular opinion.
This is a new to me author and despite the rating, I would read more of their work.
So the positives:
Initially the story started out strong and interesting. It’s unusual to read about a MMC with a physical flaw. So I found the description of Snoh at the beginning endearing. He was a nerdy, acne faced teenager; who seemed to struggle with talking to Valli.
When the story fast forwarded 5 years, that’s when things started to become annoying. But after the wedding, it became repetitive and 20% more after that I was over Valli.
So now on to the cons:
Valli wasn’t likeable. She was childish af. There was no romance, for at least 80% of the book he was trying to convince her to focus on him. Her and the Jasiah thing didn’t make any sense. She’s caping for a dude who left you for dead when you were being abused. Ma’am! I didn’t get any chemistry between the main characters.
The only likeable couple was Gunner and Dior. Maybe if it was be less repetitive. All the threatening of Jasiah, only to let him continue to try and win back his wife. She continually playing these dumb games. It was annoying af. And 400+ pages of it was too much.
I should’ve DNF, but was hoping it would all make sense at the end. The back and forth did not; nor did I ever felt like they fell in love with each other.
Snoh deserved more.
HEAVY on the unpopular opinion.
This is a new to me author and despite the rating, I would read more of their work.
So the positives:
Initially the story started out strong and interesting. It’s unusual to read about a MMC with a physical flaw. So I found the description of Snoh at the beginning endearing. He was a nerdy, acne faced teenager; who seemed to struggle with talking to Valli.
When the story fast forwarded 5 years, that’s when things started to become annoying. But after the wedding, it became repetitive and 20% more after that I was over Valli.
So now on to the cons:
Valli wasn’t likeable. She was childish af. There was no romance, for at least 80% of the book he was trying to convince her to focus on him. Her and the Jasiah thing didn’t make any sense. She’s caping for a dude who left you for dead when you were being abused. Ma’am! I didn’t get any chemistry between the main characters.
The only likeable couple was Gunner and Dior. Maybe if it was be less repetitive. All the threatening of Jasiah, only to let him continue to try and win back his wife. She continually playing these dumb games. It was annoying af. And 400+ pages of it was too much.
I should’ve DNF, but was hoping it would all make sense at the end. The back and forth did not; nor did I ever felt like they fell in love with each other.
Snoh deserved more.
November 23, 2024
Ok Read
Let me first say that Valli went through alot and I felt very sorry for her. Butttt she definitely got on my nerves for 95% of the book. She wasn't good enough for Snoh. He literally chased her the whole book and she disrespected him at every turn. I felt his love for her but never a connection between the 2 until 76% into the book. Then she went on to do more stupid and disrespectful stuff after that. There were maybe 2 good secks scenes that finally gave me hope. I love this author but this wasn't my favorite.
Let me first say that Valli went through alot and I felt very sorry for her. Butttt she definitely got on my nerves for 95% of the book. She wasn't good enough for Snoh. He literally chased her the whole book and she disrespected him at every turn. I felt his love for her but never a connection between the 2 until 76% into the book. Then she went on to do more stupid and disrespectful stuff after that. There were maybe 2 good secks scenes that finally gave me hope. I love this author but this wasn't my favorite.
November 22, 2024
In the Terzetto “Each family will pass their crown to their first-born son once he turns twenty-five and has taken a wife.” The rules were agreed on; however, on his wedding day, Snoh had a last-minute change of heart that ignited a series of chaotic events. In “Don’t Play Bout Me” Kellz crafted a world where revenge, fated love, secrets, and plotting were at an all-time high. I found myself swiping pages so fast to see how things would turn out, and let’s just say I was not ready!
I appreciated the format of the story. It began with Kavalli having to lay her parents to rest and subsequently moving in with her estranged father, whom she does not know or have a relationship with. Things took another turn when the story fast-forwarded to five years later, and life for Kavalli was not easy. From the beginning, Kavalli had a soft spot in my heart because she battled serious issues at such a young age. I felt awful about the things she endured. On the other side, Snoh had grown into a true menace - a calculated menace who was unhinged but also very intelligent. I loved that man - gone was the acne-filled kid with glasses. Snoh spoke with authority, fell first for his “Valli Baby” and exuded the “touch her and 🩸energy” - I was unraveling. I Stan!!😮💨
The cat and mouse game Snoh and Kavalli played throughout the book had my head on a swivel, but it made the story more enticing. It almost seemed like Kavalli wanted to see how far she could push Snoh, especially with Jasiah. The audacity of Jasiah to think he was ever a choice was laughable. Snoh kept letting Kavalli “think” she had the upper hand. The whole time Snoh was just waiting to tie up all the loose ends and show Kavalli it was always her for him! Whew! This book was a page-turner, and I had the time of my life reading it!
**arc review
I appreciated the format of the story. It began with Kavalli having to lay her parents to rest and subsequently moving in with her estranged father, whom she does not know or have a relationship with. Things took another turn when the story fast-forwarded to five years later, and life for Kavalli was not easy. From the beginning, Kavalli had a soft spot in my heart because she battled serious issues at such a young age. I felt awful about the things she endured. On the other side, Snoh had grown into a true menace - a calculated menace who was unhinged but also very intelligent. I loved that man - gone was the acne-filled kid with glasses. Snoh spoke with authority, fell first for his “Valli Baby” and exuded the “touch her and 🩸energy” - I was unraveling. I Stan!!😮💨
The cat and mouse game Snoh and Kavalli played throughout the book had my head on a swivel, but it made the story more enticing. It almost seemed like Kavalli wanted to see how far she could push Snoh, especially with Jasiah. The audacity of Jasiah to think he was ever a choice was laughable. Snoh kept letting Kavalli “think” she had the upper hand. The whole time Snoh was just waiting to tie up all the loose ends and show Kavalli it was always her for him! Whew! This book was a page-turner, and I had the time of my life reading it!
**arc review
December 9, 2024
Very long for no reason
This was seriously over the top and unrealistic, the characters and their actions or lack there of was beyond ridiculous and unrelatable. I skimmed through and didn't miss a thing.
This was seriously over the top and unrealistic, the characters and their actions or lack there of was beyond ridiculous and unrelatable. I skimmed through and didn't miss a thing.
December 30, 2024
The story was too annoying... both characters were too childish to be adults. See what you think.
January 30, 2026
2.5 ⭐️ Kavalli Jr experienced so much trauma in her life. She was very immature and not likable. Snoh loved her and all but he was still out there doing reckless things.
August 20, 2025
This book was the very definition of a slow burn, and I mean slow. Snoh and Kavalli’s journey was layered with tension, longing, and restraint that made me want to shake them at times, but it also made the payoff worth it once everything finally unfolded.
Now, let me be real for a second, Kavalli tested my patience more than once. Some of her choices had me side-eyeing and frustrated, but I also understood that her pain and trauma shaped how she moved. She wasn’t perfect, and honestly, that made her feel even more real. Snoh, on the other hand, had that quiet steadiness that balanced her out, even when duty tried to stand in the way of what his heart wanted. Their story is messy, emotional, and full of fate’s twists.
Now, let me be real for a second, Kavalli tested my patience more than once. Some of her choices had me side-eyeing and frustrated, but I also understood that her pain and trauma shaped how she moved. She wasn’t perfect, and honestly, that made her feel even more real. Snoh, on the other hand, had that quiet steadiness that balanced her out, even when duty tried to stand in the way of what his heart wanted. Their story is messy, emotional, and full of fate’s twists.
January 21, 2026
This is for sure an unpopular opinion but this was a no for me.
I was excited at the intro like yaasssss I am about to get into some mess. After the wedding scene (which was GOOD….think demons dream) it went downhill
Kavalli was so nasty and rude. Probably one of the most unlikable FMCs I’ve encountered in a long time. I understand that sis had a real tough time, but she was just menacing. I will never understand her loyalty and alliance with Jasiah. He literally left her with the wicked witch and just watched. Eww. She seemed like she was determined to make her hard life even more difficult.
The thing that kept me pushing: Snoh Carrington. I loved him real bad. He deserved so much better than Valli. He spent the entire book chasing her down and trying to convince her to fall for him when he was quite honestly damn near perfect.
For this to be labeled as a romance, we got a sliver of romance at about 80% in. Nothing about their love story was believable, endearing or something I wanted to root for. Snoh’s silly self for sure didn’t play bout her but she played in his face, with his emotions and his life. Kavalli played so much I got played fooling with her lol
I was excited at the intro like yaasssss I am about to get into some mess. After the wedding scene (which was GOOD….think demons dream) it went downhill
Kavalli was so nasty and rude. Probably one of the most unlikable FMCs I’ve encountered in a long time. I understand that sis had a real tough time, but she was just menacing. I will never understand her loyalty and alliance with Jasiah. He literally left her with the wicked witch and just watched. Eww. She seemed like she was determined to make her hard life even more difficult.
The thing that kept me pushing: Snoh Carrington. I loved him real bad. He deserved so much better than Valli. He spent the entire book chasing her down and trying to convince her to fall for him when he was quite honestly damn near perfect.
For this to be labeled as a romance, we got a sliver of romance at about 80% in. Nothing about their love story was believable, endearing or something I wanted to root for. Snoh’s silly self for sure didn’t play bout her but she played in his face, with his emotions and his life. Kavalli played so much I got played fooling with her lol
January 25, 2025
Whew Chile! This was a rollercoaster ride… Valli’s life was anything but a fairytale and she had to endure so much. Life has her jaded but there’s still lemonade to be made from the lemons. Snoh was everything. He didn’t come to play about his Valli baby no matter how stubborn she was and played so many games he always let her know he was with the shits and definitely wasn’t playing about her. This book had so many twist and turns and the angst was top notch… I loved the slow transition that it took for Valli to finally come to terms that she deserved all the love that Snoh was pouring out even though it wrecked my nerves… Overall it was a good read and I can’t wait for what’s next
October 24, 2025
3.5⭐️🌶️ I did not like Kavalli, and I thought she was very immature and annoying. Snoh was one of the best characters, actually; he made the whole damn book. It was very repetitive, and the ending was annoying. If you want something that doesn’t have much substance and is a light read with grammatical errors, this is what you want to read.
November 26, 2024
hmm.
Great plot, my issue with he book is that the couple isn’t even having any romance/intimacy until like past 70% of the book. Very frustrating to read considering the build up.
Great plot, my issue with he book is that the couple isn’t even having any romance/intimacy until like past 70% of the book. Very frustrating to read considering the build up.
April 19, 2025
DNF
Kavalli was rude as hell. Like to everyone. Wasn’t very likable and made me not want to continue reading. DNF.
Kavalli was rude as hell. Like to everyone. Wasn’t very likable and made me not want to continue reading. DNF.
September 10, 2025
✨ Book Review ✨
Slow burn and a marriage of convenience? Yeah… go ‘head and sign me up. From the jump, Don’t Play Bout Me had me hooked with all the emotional weight, hidden truths, and a main character who just could not catch a break. Kavalli “Valli” Amato Jr. was already grieving the loss of her parents, only to discover a letter that flipped her entire world upside down. Turns out, the man she thought was her father… wasn’t. And in the middle of that chaos, she’s told to go live with her biological father—who she knows nothing about.
And just when things finally start to feel like they’re settling… life sucker-punches her again. Valli ends up back in a toxic household with a trifling stepmother (Simone), a creepy-ass stepbrother (Cassian), and a boyfriend (Josiah) who deserved every ounce of what came to him. That girl was suffering. But thank God for Snoh Carrington.
Now that man? Whew. Snoh been in love with Valli since the moment he saw her five years ago, and he was just waiting for the right moment to make his move. He’s got pressure from his own family, responsibilities tied to the Terzetto organization, and a ticking clock on a marriage he never wanted to be in… unless it was with her. So when he found out what was happening to Valli, he said “f*** the plan,” and shut all that mess down. All I’m going to say is “What a wedding, whew 😮💨!”
Snoh is the definition of Don’t Play Bout Me!! He didn’t wait around for permission or try to play it safe—he moved like a man on a mission. And even though Valli took a little time to catch up emotionally, watching their love blossom was so satisfying. Their chemistry felt grown, earned, and real.
As for everybody else? Oh, they got exactly what they had coming. Simone, Cassian, Josiah, Kincaid? Yup. Every last one of them got exactly what was coming. Dragged, exposed, and left with their karma served hot and heavy. 🙃
The pacing was great—it kept me engaged the whole time, and listening to the audiobook while flipping through the physical copy made the experience even better. I truly had a good time with this one. Snoh and Valli’s love felt protective, patient, and passionate. And if that’s your vibe? Go ahead and dive in.
Book: Wolfe and Chosyn
Author: Kellz Kimberly
Genre: Urban Romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🥵🥵
Slow burn and a marriage of convenience? Yeah… go ‘head and sign me up. From the jump, Don’t Play Bout Me had me hooked with all the emotional weight, hidden truths, and a main character who just could not catch a break. Kavalli “Valli” Amato Jr. was already grieving the loss of her parents, only to discover a letter that flipped her entire world upside down. Turns out, the man she thought was her father… wasn’t. And in the middle of that chaos, she’s told to go live with her biological father—who she knows nothing about.
And just when things finally start to feel like they’re settling… life sucker-punches her again. Valli ends up back in a toxic household with a trifling stepmother (Simone), a creepy-ass stepbrother (Cassian), and a boyfriend (Josiah) who deserved every ounce of what came to him. That girl was suffering. But thank God for Snoh Carrington.
Now that man? Whew. Snoh been in love with Valli since the moment he saw her five years ago, and he was just waiting for the right moment to make his move. He’s got pressure from his own family, responsibilities tied to the Terzetto organization, and a ticking clock on a marriage he never wanted to be in… unless it was with her. So when he found out what was happening to Valli, he said “f*** the plan,” and shut all that mess down. All I’m going to say is “What a wedding, whew 😮💨!”
Snoh is the definition of Don’t Play Bout Me!! He didn’t wait around for permission or try to play it safe—he moved like a man on a mission. And even though Valli took a little time to catch up emotionally, watching their love blossom was so satisfying. Their chemistry felt grown, earned, and real.
As for everybody else? Oh, they got exactly what they had coming. Simone, Cassian, Josiah, Kincaid? Yup. Every last one of them got exactly what was coming. Dragged, exposed, and left with their karma served hot and heavy. 🙃
The pacing was great—it kept me engaged the whole time, and listening to the audiobook while flipping through the physical copy made the experience even better. I truly had a good time with this one. Snoh and Valli’s love felt protective, patient, and passionate. And if that’s your vibe? Go ahead and dive in.
Book: Wolfe and Chosyn
Author: Kellz Kimberly
Genre: Urban Romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🥵🥵
January 12, 2026
First let me say this is my first book by this author and I love the writing. That being said I was so frustrated with Kavalli Jr. but I had to keep reminding myself that she is only 21/22 and Snoh is only 25. Age definitely does matter because if these two mofos were older and doing the same nonsense I would’ve DNF’ed this book.
Did I feel for Valli and how she became an orphan? Yes!
Did she have to endure the abuse after her dad died? No!
And that’s where my empathy started and stopped.
The book started off good and kept me engaged but Valli’s actions caused so many problems that could’ve been avoided which left me rolling my eyes and cursing. Overall this was just ok for me.
Did I feel for Valli and how she became an orphan? Yes!
Did she have to endure the abuse after her dad died? No!
And that’s where my empathy started and stopped.
The book started off good and kept me engaged but Valli’s actions caused so many problems that could’ve been avoided which left me rolling my eyes and cursing. Overall this was just ok for me.
January 14, 2026
I rate this book a 4.0 It was well written and detailed oriented. Kavelli and Snoh have been added to my favorite MMC list. Stron presence and stand by morals in the street and at home. FMC was not my personal favorite she was very immature and played games. It didn’t work out in her favor several times. I understood the resistance in the beginning and even half way through but 90% in was just insane.
This book took some twist and turns unexpectedly which will keep you locked in.
This book took some twist and turns unexpectedly which will keep you locked in.
December 7, 2024
Kavalli Was So Immature!!!
This book had so much potential. However, it failed miserably. Both Snoh and Valli was frustrating. They were full of contradictions. Why would Snoh tell the Valli that the marriage didn’t mean anything when he knew that he loved her. Then for Valli to be Kavalli’s daughter, she was nothing like him. Not a shred of good sense. Why would she even entertain someone as her boyfriend that didn’t protect her? Then why did she think it was okay to keep hanging out with her ex and then get mad at Snoh for the same thing. It was just too many kiddie games for me.
This book had so much potential. However, it failed miserably. Both Snoh and Valli was frustrating. They were full of contradictions. Why would Snoh tell the Valli that the marriage didn’t mean anything when he knew that he loved her. Then for Valli to be Kavalli’s daughter, she was nothing like him. Not a shred of good sense. Why would she even entertain someone as her boyfriend that didn’t protect her? Then why did she think it was okay to keep hanging out with her ex and then get mad at Snoh for the same thing. It was just too many kiddie games for me.
November 5, 2025
SOMEWHAT OF A SPOILER. MORE LIKE CLUES.......The title tells you everything you need to know about this story. This was my first read by this author, and let me just say go ahead and add Snoh to our “Unhinged Men” list, baby, because that title fits him from the moment he’s introduced until the very end!
My heart broke so many times for Cavalli in this book. Those five years were rough. Imagine growing up thinking one man was your father, only to find out after our parents death (which is his fault) that he wasn’t your father and that your real father had been kept from you for your protection but being that he is your father is also the reason your alive. You even carried his name without knowing it.
And then to lose him before you could truly know him? Whew. But it’s also a reminder.....always play chess, not checkers. Even in death, her father made sure she was taken care of. That’s legacy.
Now let’s talk betrayal because baby, when they say “keep your enemies close and your friends closer,” this book proves it. In that world, trust is dangerous. You can’t even trust your left hand sometimes. And to know your own father was behind your downfall? How do you hate your own child? I’ll never understand it.
As for Simone, she played her cards wrong. She got caught up in that life, but she was dealt an underhanded hand and it cost her everything.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. The story had depth, the twists kept me hooked, and that ending? Perfect. The two narrators brought these characters to life, especially Laura....she’s got range, baby! There are levels to her delivery.
SIDENOTE (aka “Don’t come for my stars!”):
Just a quick heads-up my ratings are based on whether I’d reread the book or add it to my personal collection, not the quality of the story itself. So here’s how I roll:
5 🤩 = I’m obsessed with everything the storyline, the author, and the narrators! I read it yearly and own ALL the copies: physical, digital, and Audible. I can basically recite this book. It lives in my private library.
4 🌟 = Loved the story, the author, and the narrator (if it’s audio). I’d happily reread it when I need a solid comfort read.
3 ✨ = Enjoyed the story, the author, and definitely the narrators. A great addition to my yearly reading challenge likely to revisit if it’s part of a series I need to refresh.
My heart broke so many times for Cavalli in this book. Those five years were rough. Imagine growing up thinking one man was your father, only to find out after our parents death (which is his fault) that he wasn’t your father and that your real father had been kept from you for your protection but being that he is your father is also the reason your alive. You even carried his name without knowing it.
And then to lose him before you could truly know him? Whew. But it’s also a reminder.....always play chess, not checkers. Even in death, her father made sure she was taken care of. That’s legacy.
Now let’s talk betrayal because baby, when they say “keep your enemies close and your friends closer,” this book proves it. In that world, trust is dangerous. You can’t even trust your left hand sometimes. And to know your own father was behind your downfall? How do you hate your own child? I’ll never understand it.
As for Simone, she played her cards wrong. She got caught up in that life, but she was dealt an underhanded hand and it cost her everything.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. The story had depth, the twists kept me hooked, and that ending? Perfect. The two narrators brought these characters to life, especially Laura....she’s got range, baby! There are levels to her delivery.
SIDENOTE (aka “Don’t come for my stars!”):
Just a quick heads-up my ratings are based on whether I’d reread the book or add it to my personal collection, not the quality of the story itself. So here’s how I roll:
5 🤩 = I’m obsessed with everything the storyline, the author, and the narrators! I read it yearly and own ALL the copies: physical, digital, and Audible. I can basically recite this book. It lives in my private library.
4 🌟 = Loved the story, the author, and the narrator (if it’s audio). I’d happily reread it when I need a solid comfort read.
3 ✨ = Enjoyed the story, the author, and definitely the narrators. A great addition to my yearly reading challenge likely to revisit if it’s part of a series I need to refresh.
July 21, 2025
Let me tell you something...this was my first Kellz Kimberly experience and baby, I was not ready. The drama? Explosive. The tension? Palpable. The heat? Straight-up scorching. Don’t Play Bout Me throws you into a high-stakes world where crowns, power, and loyalty are everything—and betrayal might just be the price of love. From the first chapter, I was hooked and flipping pages like my life depended on it.
The Terzetto's legacy rule, that the first-born son gets the crown once he’s twenty-five and married sets the whole stage. But when Snoh pulls a bold move on his wedding day, all hell breaks loose. What follows is a twisted, addictive ride filled with revenge, passion, and power plays that had me on the edge of my seat. Kellz didn’t just write a love story...she wrote a war.
Kavalli? That girl stole my heart early. Life dealt her a rough hand, and watching her navigate grief, estrangement, and pain had me rooting for her hard. She’s soft, scarred, but not weak and that contrast made her captivating. Five years later, she’s still fighting her demons, but she’s also standing in her power. Then there’s Snoh. Whew. Snoh is that villain you can't help but fall for. Slick, sharp, and dangerous with a mind like a chessboard, he’s plotting every move. He didn’t just evolve; he ascended. And when he claimed “Valli Baby” like she was his religion? I felt that.
Their connection was chaotic in the best way. Volatile, magnetic, and laced with so much push and pull I couldn’t look away. Kavalli knew how to test him, and Snoh? He let her play the game while he quietly held the winning hand the entire time. And don’t even get me started on Jasiah...sigh boy, sit down. You were never in the running!
The chemistry, the tension, the drama? Chef’s kiss. Was it perfect? Nah, a few typos slipped through the cracks but the story hit hard enough that I barely cared. This book gave me that gritty, fiery, “say-it-with-your-chest” kind of love story I didn’t know I needed.
Kellz Kimberly. Sis, you got a new fan. I’ll definitely be back for more. If you love bold characters, ruthless romance, and a ride that’ll leave you breathless, this one’s for you.
The Terzetto's legacy rule, that the first-born son gets the crown once he’s twenty-five and married sets the whole stage. But when Snoh pulls a bold move on his wedding day, all hell breaks loose. What follows is a twisted, addictive ride filled with revenge, passion, and power plays that had me on the edge of my seat. Kellz didn’t just write a love story...she wrote a war.
Kavalli? That girl stole my heart early. Life dealt her a rough hand, and watching her navigate grief, estrangement, and pain had me rooting for her hard. She’s soft, scarred, but not weak and that contrast made her captivating. Five years later, she’s still fighting her demons, but she’s also standing in her power. Then there’s Snoh. Whew. Snoh is that villain you can't help but fall for. Slick, sharp, and dangerous with a mind like a chessboard, he’s plotting every move. He didn’t just evolve; he ascended. And when he claimed “Valli Baby” like she was his religion? I felt that.
Their connection was chaotic in the best way. Volatile, magnetic, and laced with so much push and pull I couldn’t look away. Kavalli knew how to test him, and Snoh? He let her play the game while he quietly held the winning hand the entire time. And don’t even get me started on Jasiah...sigh boy, sit down. You were never in the running!
The chemistry, the tension, the drama? Chef’s kiss. Was it perfect? Nah, a few typos slipped through the cracks but the story hit hard enough that I barely cared. This book gave me that gritty, fiery, “say-it-with-your-chest” kind of love story I didn’t know I needed.
Kellz Kimberly. Sis, you got a new fan. I’ll definitely be back for more. If you love bold characters, ruthless romance, and a ride that’ll leave you breathless, this one’s for you.
November 30, 2024
Damn Valli went through hell with all the loss she endured so early in her life. Just when she thought that life was looking up, more loss and pain came to greet her. I thought Jasiah would be her savior as he claimed to love her so much, but he turned out to be a dud! Just talked a good game and did nothing to protect her. Ughhhh.... 🤬
Enter Mr. Snoh Carrington. I had a feeling when he was first introduced that he would be a force to be reckoned with, and boy was he! Being shown the ropes of the Terzetto ways as a youngin' by his father and Kavalli made him a silent threat, as he was so quiet and unassuming. However, as he grew, he showed everyone he was not the one to be played with. Snoh was in love with Valli since middle school by just looking at a picture of her, unbeknownst to her or her father. Missing his opportunity to get the blessing from her father, he thought he lost his chance. Well..... until fate stepped in.
After finding out about the mistreatment of Valli, Snoh quickly came up with a plan to remove her from that situation, as well as help himself gain his seat within the Terzetto.
Both Snoh and Valli had communication issues that kept them from voicing their feelings. That inability kept them at odds with the petty back and forth. I loved how Snoh was resolute in his feelings, motives, and actions regarding Valli. Was he a bit unhinged with his behavior, yes.
But anything that caused Valli any discomfort he was eliminating. However, Valli's wishy washy ass got on my nerves so damn bad!!! Girl this man is taking people out for you, and showing you at every turn how he is all about you, but your still unsure about how he feels for you???? Huh??? 👀 May I have a C for Clue Pat cause sis needs several! 😤 All that mess she was doing continued to put her in harm's way. I wondered at what point would Snoh say is this chick worth it? 🤷🏾♀️ Valli finally got her ish together, just took her the whole damn book to do so. Enjoyed this.
Enter Mr. Snoh Carrington. I had a feeling when he was first introduced that he would be a force to be reckoned with, and boy was he! Being shown the ropes of the Terzetto ways as a youngin' by his father and Kavalli made him a silent threat, as he was so quiet and unassuming. However, as he grew, he showed everyone he was not the one to be played with. Snoh was in love with Valli since middle school by just looking at a picture of her, unbeknownst to her or her father. Missing his opportunity to get the blessing from her father, he thought he lost his chance. Well..... until fate stepped in.
After finding out about the mistreatment of Valli, Snoh quickly came up with a plan to remove her from that situation, as well as help himself gain his seat within the Terzetto.
Both Snoh and Valli had communication issues that kept them from voicing their feelings. That inability kept them at odds with the petty back and forth. I loved how Snoh was resolute in his feelings, motives, and actions regarding Valli. Was he a bit unhinged with his behavior, yes.
But anything that caused Valli any discomfort he was eliminating. However, Valli's wishy washy ass got on my nerves so damn bad!!! Girl this man is taking people out for you, and showing you at every turn how he is all about you, but your still unsure about how he feels for you???? Huh??? 👀 May I have a C for Clue Pat cause sis needs several! 😤 All that mess she was doing continued to put her in harm's way. I wondered at what point would Snoh say is this chick worth it? 🤷🏾♀️ Valli finally got her ish together, just took her the whole damn book to do so. Enjoyed this.
June 1, 2025
4.5 stars.
Snoh and Kavilli. Snoh had a serious glow up. he changed from a nerdy dude with glasses and bad acne to that dude. he played no games about Kavilli. Kavilli was wishy-washy on my dude and the sh*t almost got her killed. playing games with my boy
kavilli parents were murdered. she went to live with her real daddy. he was rich and head of a crime family. he was murdered and his wife took Kavilli in but treated her like sh*t. her step brother (who was also her uncle) abused her. she went thru hell until Snoh showed up to exact revenge for her father's death.
Snoh and Kavilli. Snoh had a serious glow up. he changed from a nerdy dude with glasses and bad acne to that dude. he played no games about Kavilli. Kavilli was wishy-washy on my dude and the sh*t almost got her killed. playing games with my boy
kavilli parents were murdered. she went to live with her real daddy. he was rich and head of a crime family. he was murdered and his wife took Kavilli in but treated her like sh*t. her step brother (who was also her uncle) abused her. she went thru hell until Snoh showed up to exact revenge for her father's death.
January 12, 2026
This is probably more of a 2.5 star read for me. Especially after having read Capone 1 & 2 by Jahquel J. I think the book had a strong start, but it quickly went downhill for me at the 50% mark. Additionally, I don't usually mind grammar/editing issues, unless it takes away from the story, and in this case it did. And it wasn't because of AAV.
This was supposed to be a Urban Romance about, one person who is taking over a criminal organization and a the daughter of one of the former leaders of that group. What fell short for me was some of the back and forth between Snoh and Kavalli - I didn't feel the connection. Also, Snoh felt a little too trigger happy at times. Also the subplot of someone else trying to take over the organization fell flat.
Snoh repeated himself and confessed his love constantly, so it really bothered me when he did what he did with those two women.
Kavalli - I don't think I ever truly connected with her, at times she made sense and at others she didn't.
I really pushed through this when it probably should have been a DNF, but I just wanted to see it come together and I don't feel that it did.
This was supposed to be a Urban Romance about, one person who is taking over a criminal organization and a the daughter of one of the former leaders of that group. What fell short for me was some of the back and forth between Snoh and Kavalli - I didn't feel the connection. Also, Snoh felt a little too trigger happy at times. Also the subplot of someone else trying to take over the organization fell flat.
Snoh repeated himself and confessed his love constantly, so it really bothered me when he did what he did with those two women.
Kavalli - I don't think I ever truly connected with her, at times she made sense and at others she didn't.
I really pushed through this when it probably should have been a DNF, but I just wanted to see it come together and I don't feel that it did.
December 11, 2024
Yes
I liked this novel. The ending felt a bit rushed, but it was good nonetheless. The backstory was good. The plot twists were decent. Just read the damn book.
I liked this novel. The ending felt a bit rushed, but it was good nonetheless. The backstory was good. The plot twists were decent. Just read the damn book.
January 18, 2026
Urban romance is always a good time as far as I am concerned. This was a forced proximity...enemies to lovers trope and I really enjoyed this book. Our MMC Snoh is now officially one of my new book boyfriends. I loved the storyline and plot but the complexity of the characters was chef's kiss. There was quite a few typos in the book but overall I enjoyed it.
📌 Would I recommend this one? YES
📌Would I read it again? No
📌 Would I recommend this one? YES
📌Would I read it again? No
September 25, 2025
Omg I love this book with every fiber of my being!!!! Kellz did this!!!! Omg I can’t even really give a full review cause I’m still so dreamy and excited and in love lol
December 27, 2025
This book started off good, but after some time it got very repetitive and there were a lot of childish behaviors that weren’t necessary coming from the FMC. The book made it hard to see actual chemistry between the characters because she kept trying to play games. Snoh deserved better.
I was too far along to DNF.
I know this author has great books out and I probably chose one that simply didn’t work for me so I do plan to still try some of her work in the future but with older aged characters.
I was too far along to DNF.
I know this author has great books out and I probably chose one that simply didn’t work for me so I do plan to still try some of her work in the future but with older aged characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 3, 2024
Annoyed
Valli was so damn childish and annoyed me 90% of this book.
Snoh killing people for no reason was weird but he seemed to let Valli ex slide over and over again. I also lost respect for him when he got head from his ex….that was a punk move and then killed her dor disrespecting his wife? Dude you disrespected your own wife!
It was a good read but I felt frustrated the majority of the pages.
Valli was so damn childish and annoyed me 90% of this book.
Snoh killing people for no reason was weird but he seemed to let Valli ex slide over and over again. I also lost respect for him when he got head from his ex….that was a punk move and then killed her dor disrespecting his wife? Dude you disrespected your own wife!
It was a good read but I felt frustrated the majority of the pages.
January 5, 2025
Must Read
There's so much to unpack. Normally you don't see girls named as Juniors but Kavalli found out she was a Junior after the death of her mother and the man she thought was her father. Meeting her father Kavalli Sr had Kavalli Junior confused until she learned about the relationship between her mother and biological father. Kavalli Sr had never stopped loving Kavalli Jr mother. Aubrey was his heart. However being in the type of business he was in. Kavalli was pretty much forced into a arranged marriage with Simone bitter and snake ass. Simone knew Kavalli Sr never loved her and never will. Having Kavalli Jr move into their home has Simone blinded by jealousy and anger. Simone felt her son Cassian deserves the same treatment as Kavalli Jr. However Simone raised Cassian to have b**** tendencies. Kavalli barely had a chance to get to know her father before his death not even twenty for hour's of moving in. Simone was the culprit but yet blamed it on Snoh. Snoh had fallen in love with Kavalli Jr long before meeting her. He was very close to Kavalli Sr being that his father was Kavalli best friend. I knew the moment Kavalli Jr met Jasiah. He wasn't the one for her but they were young. Jasiah set and watched Cassian physically and verbally abuse Kavalli Jr after her father death. Cassian and Simone treated her like s**t and Jasiah didn't do a damn thing but Kavalli Jr was supposed to be his woman. Snoh was sitting back waiting to get revenge for what Simone and Cassian did. While Snoh was set to be go through with his arranged marriage to Asia and to prepare to take over his father part in the organization because he was sick. Snoh changed the game by marrying Kavalli, killing Cassian, and trying to track down Simone. Kincaid was scandalous. It wasn't hard to figure out he really Cassian father but had Kavalli unknowingly raising his own brother before his untimely death. Snoh was very intelligent. A little crazy and unhinged but the amount of work he put in to show Kavalli Jr that he wholeheartedly loved her and will protect her with his life went over her head. Kavalli was used to Jasiah scary ass and any time she got mad at Snoh she ran to Jasiah and had that man thinking he still had a chance. Honestly Jasiah was a snake too. Cassian was supposed to be his best friend but he set him up. If Jasiah was as smart as he thought he was. He wouldn't have been plotting and planning with Simone and Kincaid but in the end. Jasiah, Kincaid, and Simone had to learn the hard way.
There's so much to unpack. Normally you don't see girls named as Juniors but Kavalli found out she was a Junior after the death of her mother and the man she thought was her father. Meeting her father Kavalli Sr had Kavalli Junior confused until she learned about the relationship between her mother and biological father. Kavalli Sr had never stopped loving Kavalli Jr mother. Aubrey was his heart. However being in the type of business he was in. Kavalli was pretty much forced into a arranged marriage with Simone bitter and snake ass. Simone knew Kavalli Sr never loved her and never will. Having Kavalli Jr move into their home has Simone blinded by jealousy and anger. Simone felt her son Cassian deserves the same treatment as Kavalli Jr. However Simone raised Cassian to have b**** tendencies. Kavalli barely had a chance to get to know her father before his death not even twenty for hour's of moving in. Simone was the culprit but yet blamed it on Snoh. Snoh had fallen in love with Kavalli Jr long before meeting her. He was very close to Kavalli Sr being that his father was Kavalli best friend. I knew the moment Kavalli Jr met Jasiah. He wasn't the one for her but they were young. Jasiah set and watched Cassian physically and verbally abuse Kavalli Jr after her father death. Cassian and Simone treated her like s**t and Jasiah didn't do a damn thing but Kavalli Jr was supposed to be his woman. Snoh was sitting back waiting to get revenge for what Simone and Cassian did. While Snoh was set to be go through with his arranged marriage to Asia and to prepare to take over his father part in the organization because he was sick. Snoh changed the game by marrying Kavalli, killing Cassian, and trying to track down Simone. Kincaid was scandalous. It wasn't hard to figure out he really Cassian father but had Kavalli unknowingly raising his own brother before his untimely death. Snoh was very intelligent. A little crazy and unhinged but the amount of work he put in to show Kavalli Jr that he wholeheartedly loved her and will protect her with his life went over her head. Kavalli was used to Jasiah scary ass and any time she got mad at Snoh she ran to Jasiah and had that man thinking he still had a chance. Honestly Jasiah was a snake too. Cassian was supposed to be his best friend but he set him up. If Jasiah was as smart as he thought he was. He wouldn't have been plotting and planning with Simone and Kincaid but in the end. Jasiah, Kincaid, and Simone had to learn the hard way.
July 10, 2025
SHE ATE DOWNNNNNNNNN
Ive been in a reading slump for a while and i almost didn’t read it cause of how long it was but i was like lemme just read. Im so happy I did
Like when I tell you this book ateeeeee. Snoh was hilarious asf like some of the things he would say low key had me dying. He didn’t have to do me dreads like that like I low key felt bad for the man. But other than that 100/10 I loved how he loved Valli. He never tried to hide it BUT like I know he admitted to it and he apologized he still cheated on her twice and idk I ain’t really like that had me pausing for a min that was my only ick about him
Valli…. First of all I love her full name I thought it was so creative. I loved Valli… I loved how she didn’t let him walk over her and she made it known she was also the prize. Couple things I didn’t get… she kept saying Snoh wasn’t being open wifh her (especially when she used that argument about their first date) and how he didn’t say it or show that he loved her.. that puzzled me so much cause I felt up to that point that’s all Snoh did, the amount of times he told her that she was it for him, that he even loved her if I’m not mistaken… him buying the restaurants and other things he didn’t need to do I was like girl how can you say he’s not telling or showing you his feelings.
Why was I low key hoping Luca would magically be cured 💔💔💔💔
Also I loved how we didn’t get a steamy scene until like 70% in I loved the slow (ish) burn. And how even after we got it that’s not all we were reading. I love smut like the next person but I can’t stand when that’s all it becomes.
Ive been in a reading slump for a while and i almost didn’t read it cause of how long it was but i was like lemme just read. Im so happy I did
Like when I tell you this book ateeeeee. Snoh was hilarious asf like some of the things he would say low key had me dying. He didn’t have to do me dreads like that like I low key felt bad for the man. But other than that 100/10 I loved how he loved Valli. He never tried to hide it BUT like I know he admitted to it and he apologized he still cheated on her twice and idk I ain’t really like that had me pausing for a min that was my only ick about him
Valli…. First of all I love her full name I thought it was so creative. I loved Valli… I loved how she didn’t let him walk over her and she made it known she was also the prize. Couple things I didn’t get… she kept saying Snoh wasn’t being open wifh her (especially when she used that argument about their first date) and how he didn’t say it or show that he loved her.. that puzzled me so much cause I felt up to that point that’s all Snoh did, the amount of times he told her that she was it for him, that he even loved her if I’m not mistaken… him buying the restaurants and other things he didn’t need to do I was like girl how can you say he’s not telling or showing you his feelings.
Why was I low key hoping Luca would magically be cured 💔💔💔💔
Also I loved how we didn’t get a steamy scene until like 70% in I loved the slow (ish) burn. And how even after we got it that’s not all we were reading. I love smut like the next person but I can’t stand when that’s all it becomes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2026
Snoh was the full embodiment of the title of this book. He DID NOT PLAY when it came to his Valli baby. Like I don’t think I’ve seen a MMC since Menace (iykyk) that didn’t tolerate anything that could have been seen as potential disrespect towards his wife. Like how about you don’t even breathe too loud in her direction🤣. This book came out of the gate with the mess and drama including a very unsuspecting loss very early on (I’m still sad about it). There were some twists and secrets that came out over time as well. I also loved some of the side characters (Gunner & Dior especially) who were quick to call Snoh & Kavalli to the carpet when needed.
Now, Kavalli was not a likable FMC. She was super immature and childish. And I had to keep telling myself that trauma aside, she also was very young (20/21yo) and I typically don’t read books with MCs that young but this got good reviews so I gladly pushed through. What I will say though is that her relationship with Snoh is a good example of needing to love someone in their love language & not your own. Him: I love you. I killed for you (acts of service). Her: But I need you to tell me WHY you love me. (Words of affirmation). And neither of them being able to understand why the other doesn’t understand their feelings🤣 I do wish we saw more of their romance on page but Kavalli played the whole book so we missed out.
I can see why some have said that it felt repetitive. Because it was in some places because we got povs from some of the lesser characters that I don’t think necessarily needed POVS (Asia, Jasiah especially) but I didn’t hate it. I just understand the criticism that it dragged. I enjoyed this though.
Now, Kavalli was not a likable FMC. She was super immature and childish. And I had to keep telling myself that trauma aside, she also was very young (20/21yo) and I typically don’t read books with MCs that young but this got good reviews so I gladly pushed through. What I will say though is that her relationship with Snoh is a good example of needing to love someone in their love language & not your own. Him: I love you. I killed for you (acts of service). Her: But I need you to tell me WHY you love me. (Words of affirmation). And neither of them being able to understand why the other doesn’t understand their feelings🤣 I do wish we saw more of their romance on page but Kavalli played the whole book so we missed out.
I can see why some have said that it felt repetitive. Because it was in some places because we got povs from some of the lesser characters that I don’t think necessarily needed POVS (Asia, Jasiah especially) but I didn’t hate it. I just understand the criticism that it dragged. I enjoyed this though.
August 31, 2025
Snoh & Kavalli forever ❤️
Kimberly Kellz continues to prove she’s the queen of messy, hood-rich mafia family sagas. Don’t Play Bout Me follows Kavalli Amato (Carrington) as she learns shocking truths about her family and eventually falls into the toxic-sweet, infuriating, and addictive love story with Snoh. From the very first pages after her parents’ funeral, the twists never stop, and just when you think you’ve caught your breath, Kellz spins the story in another direction.
Kavalli and Snoh’s relationship is the highlight. Unconventional, intense, and at times maddening but always clear that she is the one for him. Their love is the kind that makes you clutch your chest one minute and roll your eyes the next, but you can’t look away. It’s that raw “hood love” energy that feels authentic to the world Kellz builds.
This book hit all the high notes: family drama, betrayals, revelations, and a love story that kept me turning the pages. It wasn’t quite the level of my last 5-star read from her, but it was close. A solid 4 stars for the storytelling alone.
The only real drawback? The grammar and editing errors were hard to miss, more noticeable than in her other books. They didn’t stop me from finishing (because the story was too strong), but they did pull me out of the world at times.
Bottom line: If you love Kimberly Kellz’s brand of hood/mafia romance, this one will absolutely deliver.
Kimberly Kellz continues to prove she’s the queen of messy, hood-rich mafia family sagas. Don’t Play Bout Me follows Kavalli Amato (Carrington) as she learns shocking truths about her family and eventually falls into the toxic-sweet, infuriating, and addictive love story with Snoh. From the very first pages after her parents’ funeral, the twists never stop, and just when you think you’ve caught your breath, Kellz spins the story in another direction.
Kavalli and Snoh’s relationship is the highlight. Unconventional, intense, and at times maddening but always clear that she is the one for him. Their love is the kind that makes you clutch your chest one minute and roll your eyes the next, but you can’t look away. It’s that raw “hood love” energy that feels authentic to the world Kellz builds.
This book hit all the high notes: family drama, betrayals, revelations, and a love story that kept me turning the pages. It wasn’t quite the level of my last 5-star read from her, but it was close. A solid 4 stars for the storytelling alone.
The only real drawback? The grammar and editing errors were hard to miss, more noticeable than in her other books. They didn’t stop me from finishing (because the story was too strong), but they did pull me out of the world at times.
Bottom line: If you love Kimberly Kellz’s brand of hood/mafia romance, this one will absolutely deliver.
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