Happiness In Jersey

The Prototype #1

by Jacinta Howard, Wesleigh Siobhan (Narrator)

The only thing in Jersey Kincaid’s world that she has time for are keeping her grades up so that she doesn’t lose her scholarship to South Texas University, playing the bass in her band, The Prototype, and satisfying her coffee addiction. Oh, and the occasional random hook-up she indulges in to pass the time.

Love? Eh, not so much. Save that crap for a Katherine Heigl or Natalie Portman movie.

Jersey’s seen enough in life (courtesy of her Pops) to realize that undying romance is nothing more than a myth used to sell books and movie tickets. As she knows too well, the only thing inevitable in life is death— love is definitely not promised.

That’s why when Jersey meets Isaiah “Zay” Broussard with his soulful gray eyes, quick wit and easy charm, she’s determined to remain aloof. She doesn't have time to get sidetracked by fleeting fantasies, even if she does feel an unexplainable connection to Zay she’s never experienced before.

But when his interest in her only seems to intensify, despite her attempts to brush him off, she gets to see a side of him and herself she didn’t expect…

Genres: Romance, New Adult, Music, Audiobook, African American Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance

280 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 29, 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 5 out of 5]

Happiness in Jersey by Jacinta Howard is one of those books that your heart just wasn’t prepared for. It just grabs you and doesn’t let go. For me, the tell-tale sign is that when I wake up in the morning, my first thoughts are about the main character in the book, Jersey. I was worried about her. How is she? What’s going to happen next? Yes, in other words, I was obsessed.



Jersey Kinkaid doesn’t believe in love. The only thing inevitable in life is death, she believes. She tries to make people believe she is tough. She is a sophomore at South Texas University on scholarship, works at Aroma coffee shop and plays bass in the band, Prototype. This has nothing to do with the story but it might be that I felt so much for this young girl because my Mom was a bass player during my growing up years. The music they played was quite different, of course, but I can totally understand the workings of a musician’s mind. My Dad was also a musician and my son currently is. Ok, now that that is out of the way, I want to tell you more about Jersey.



Jersey’s growing up years were not good. Her Dad is a drunk and over her lifetime has never shown her any kind of love or support. When things get tough and Jersey can’t stand the pressure inside her chest, she will have random hook-ups with guys for sex. Or turn to music. Music was her solace. But the night Isaiah “Zay” Broussard walked in during a Prototype rehearsal, with his gray sexy eyes, everything changed.

“I turned and looked at him, this guy I’d known for just a few weeks but seemed to innately understand me better than anyone ever had. The way he affected me was so thorough it was starting to overwhelm my hesitation, tear down my carefully constructed walls. I felt naked and exposed, and I was starting to not mind it. Part of me wanted him to know me.”

But Jersey did not believe in love. Feelings would inevitably change and she would end up getting hurt. She is determined not to let him in.

“Nothing good could come of this, of these feelings I was having for him.”

“It’s better to let it go, to let him go now because the truth is, if I don’t protect myself, then nobody else will.”

Zay has had pain in his past as well. He needed this change of location, this fresh start. And the first time he laid eyes on Jersey, he knew he needed her as well. Zay plays guitar and finds a place for himself in their band, Prototype. But as tensions grow between himself and Jersey, it definitely effects the other members. Can he convince Jersey to let down her walls?

“You!” he bellowed, throwing his hands up in frustration. “You’re my problem! You’re my solution! You’re my high; you’re my low! You’re my muse; you’re my pain! It’s you. Everything! Everything I do and think and breathe is you!”



The band, Prototype, is slowly gaining momentum, gaining a following. But at the same time, Jersey is struggling with herself. She is a young woman forced to grow up so much faster than she should have, forced to be independent, not wanting to rely on anyone but herself. My heart ached for her as she was forced to re-examine everything she believed and as I watched as she denied her heart the love being offered. Zay is so patient and loving. Can he convince her that love is worth taking a chance on? I hope you’ll read this wonderful book to find out.

[mina reads™️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

#blackloveathon prompt: simply read a black love story
Readathon vlog: https://youtu.be/m4DqdInKA8E

Sweet angsty college romance about two black musicians with a lot of intense feelings for each other that our narrator Jersey is scared to explore. Jersey and Zay were so cute together. Although Jersey was a great narrator, Zay was the star of the show for me. He was sweet, honest, caring and he made me swoon more than a few times. I loved Jersey’s emotional growth and character development over the course of the story. And of course the found family vibes with the band, Prototype, were amazing!!!!

cw: verbal abuse/ emotional neglect by a parent, attempted sexual assault

[Rashawnda · Rating 3 out of 5]

It took a lot for me to get through this book. Had it not been for me being a Wesleigh fan and listening on Audio I wouldn’t have finished it. Jersey was too much and Zay should’ve dropped her @$$ after she screwed him over the first time. I get she was dealing with trauma but so was Zay. The world does not revolve around you Jersey. Get some therapy and heal so that you don’t hurt people worthy of healthy love. I hope the next book isn’t this stressful.

[Delaney Diamond · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, Jacinta Howard is two for two. I love her writing voice. She’s skilled at sucking you into a story, and after this one I’m looking forward to whatever else she writes. Despite the fact that these are young people, they’re very mature because of their life’s experiences, and I actually enjoyed Happiness in Jersey more than I did her first book – Better Than Okay. I didn’t even think that was possible.

This is another story about young love (Jacinta has me being all cougar-ish, falling in love with these perfect, twenty-something heroes of hers). Jersey plays in a college band, and Zay is related to one of the band members and joins the band, too. These two are perfect together, but it takes some time for Jersey to accept this is the man for her. But have no fear, Zay is persistent!

There’s a cast of secondary characters that I enjoyed and whose stories I want told ASAP, romance, and enough of a painful past to make the reader empathize with the hero and heroine and root for them to come out on top. Kudos for great storytelling!

A+++

[Jerrika Rhone · Rating 3 out of 5]

.............unpopular opinion. The whole Outcast cover band is corny. IJS.

40% DONE: Jersey is painfully unlikeable, trauma and all.

SO IS HER DADDY AND THAT RAGEDY HEFFA HE BROUGHT IN THE HOUSE.
This book was difficult for me, maybe because some topics were triggering. Because of that I was mad for the majority of the read. Still downloaded part 2 tho :)

[Deloris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is blues and love, the song of Zay and Jersey's relationship was like a well written song. The first time Zay lays eyes on Jersey I knew their story would be powerful and I was not disappointed. I was emotionally connected to these characters I cared and rooted for them even when they did not act as I wanted them to. They shared music and I could hear the music as the played on stage. The very first time Zay had a performance I was there too the author showed me and I loved the way he sang . When Jersey and Devin were rocking on their band I was there too and more important I went looking for the songs to be sure what I was hearing. Jersey and Zay have a musical story, a real love you through the pain even when you don't think no one can love you story , and when you finish the last page you will feel like I feel happy because this author wrote a book and it's damn good music.

ILoved it just as much reading it the second time ❤️❤️

[Deja]

I can't settle on a rating for this one just yet, but overall it was okay.

Happiness is Jersey felt like a slice of life story featuring a romance. And while there were some parts that I enjoyed, a large portion of the book left me confused as to what the *point* of the story was. There wasn't one central conflict or purpose that drove the plot, so a lot of time I was left aimlessly reading and waiting for something to happen. I don't mind stories that are more character driven, but since I didn't love our heroine, Jersey, the slow pace got old after a while.

On the other hand, I LOVED the hero, Zay. He was so open and interesting, and so determined to get to know Jersey despite all the guards she had up. His character-type is one that I always love to read about as love interests in romances, so it made up for some of the slower parts.

Also note that there's one instance where the r-word is used pretty off-handedly by the heroine.

I definitely wish I had enjoyed this more. While listening to the audiobook, I was so plugged in at certain moments, but by the end I was forcing myself to get through the epilogue (and I love epilogues!!). The book just wasn't what I expected, and in the end it left me pretty disappointed.

[a.loversbookclub · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 whew this book has me in my feels! jersey girl, i cant even fault you growing up the way you did i wouldn’t know what to so w the love Zay was trying to pour into u either. this isnt a romance at all but their love story and their connection was beautiful- sad, heavy and heartbreaking but so, so real.

[Jite · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gorgeous.

I really enjoyed this music-based new adult romance by this new-to-me author and found it both gorgeous in its discussion of grief and loss and fear and hurt through music and lyrics and in its capacity to capture the emotions of two young hurting people. I usually actively avoid New Adult romances but when I saw someone in Instagram mention this, I knew I wanted to check it out.

The premise of this first book in The Prototype series is that Jersey is a college student and founding member of the up-and-coming band The Prototype who battles a lot of demons inherited from her upbringing. Completely commitment-phobic, she’s completely unprepared for the flutters and sparks that fly when she meets Zay, her bandmate’s friend, who’s newly transferred to her school and in the running to join the band. But despite her desperate (mutual) attraction to Zay and her increasing dependence on their friendship, she shuts down any possibility of a relationship between them, after all relationships are fiction, love is untrustworthy, and death and endings are the only inevitable things.

I thought this was a fantastically-written NA romance in a lot of way. It was somewhat slow burn spicy, but did a good job expressing heavier, complex emotions that come with grief and having parents that have complex mental health issues. This had one of the best explorations of the “why” the protagonists had such love for each other. I loved how realistic this felt, how hard-won the HEA felt without Jersey’s doubts or fears ever feeling repetitive or tedious. I love that Zay went through the full gamut of emotions with Jersey from frustration to anger to worry but it was always rooted in love and support. This never for one moment felt like it dragged even though it was patently a “will they-won’t they” sort of novel about music lovers. My only issue with this is that I think that whilst the healing power of love™️ is a thing, I think in this book some of the characters, Jersey, specifically, could have benefitted from therapy or counseling to help her deal with what she went through in her childhood. I was a little uncomfortable with her resolution and healing being entwined in Zay rather than in herself. There is casual colloquial use of the controversial “r” word (formerly a slur against people with intellectual disabilities) one time, which I’ve seen that some people find very offensive- it fits in the language/syntax of the character’s speech but if this word is triggering for you in anyway, be aware of it. CWs also should be taken for death of a parent, difficult parent-child relationships, grief, alcoholism, depression, suicide, and emotional abuse. I adored the supporting characters and I’m looking forward to their books. I’m definitely invested in this series and highly recommend this book!

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

With Jersey Kinkaid and Isaiah “Zay” Broussard you see love meet and love unfold. Jersey is protective of Jersey, she’s guarded and portrays a “don’t care” attitude. It is what got her this far in life. It is what helped her survive the suicide of her mother and being raised by a “fault Jersey” drunkard as a father. It is what helped her with relationships, which she doesn’t do.

In steps Zay, and he sees her with new eyes. You feel that no one was ever meant to see her that way, no one other than Zay. Then Jersey’s “don’t care” attitude betrays her as she begins to feel Zay, his presence, whether he’s near or far. He occupies her thoughts, whether she’s asleep or awake. She begins to crave him because he provides something never provided to her before, a safe, non-judgmental comfort zone. Although father-and-daughter relationship was tumultuous at best, it is what she grew up with. Acceptance is a small price to pay for the guilt she feels about her mother’s death. However, her dad shows growth, as he decides he needs to move on, which gives her the clue that maybe she needs to move on, too and admit she’s human, that she has feelings and she is deserving of love. Love which is offered patiently and unconditionally…by none other than Zay.

This is my second book by Jacinta Howard and she has solidified her position as a romance writer to be reckoned with, the breakout writer of the year. She not only tells the story, but she makes you feel. She makes you want to crawl under the covers with Jersey and cry with her, she makes you feel vulnerable and yet able to overcome. This book is so beautifully written and it flows at the right pace from beginning to end.

-Reviewed by Sophie

[ReadnliftwithShar · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story so much! I’m a sucker for a college romance story. Brownie points when there’s a MMC that wants and craves love. While the FMC wore me out at times, I empathized with her and her reasoning for being resistant to love. I am looking forward to continuing the series. The writing was good, it had a slower beginning but it picked up and kept me engaged.

[Emaleigh Nichelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Whew, I’m glad that’s finished. It was entirely too long. Jersey was so exhausting. Isaiah was so sure and patient. This is a college romance,if that your jam give it a try.

[Sonia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Angst.

Three stars is being very generous...more like 2 1/2 stars. This author is about angst, angst and more angst. This author did a good job on the H character....a great book boyfriend, the only saving grace in this book. Let's talk about the h. Through 80 percent of the book, I thought the character was boorish, obnoxious, pretentious and so unlikable. Oh, I guess the fact that she was pretty and a talented musician made her behavior acceptable? My bad. All those confrontations with men that she slept with....was she suppose to be better than them? Was her sass supposed to show her superiority or her stupidity? Really? They were dogs and she had sex with them...what does that make her? Oh forget, she was pretty and magnetic. This author did such a poor job in developing this character that I did not like the character nor did I get to understand her dysfunction...when was she going to deal. I understood that she had issues and I wondered how the author was going to resolve then. Oh, I forget, let's do angst, angst and more angst and have her wallow in her problems.

The life changing incident plus the behavior of her father was unacceptable and heart breaking. The author did a poor of explaining the dynamics between the h and her parents. The author failed to provide an avenue for the h to understand herself and her circumstances. The author did not use the friends or a counsellor or a support group to understand the circumstances of her life that would help her accept and deal with her circumstances. The h was in college, at what point does the character begin to understand her circumstances? No, all we get angst, angst and more angst and the author does nothing to improve the perception of the character. However, the H was able to deal with his problems and come out on the other side. Really? Really? The planet that we live in shows that 60 percent of marriages end in a divorce; there are more single people now than at any time of our history a reading romance novels is pure fantasy. How is it that a man can sort out his sh#t; however, a woman can barely cope. Really? Really? I want a great book boyfriend and a great woman character, who is facing many challenges ; however, comes out on the other side . In addition, if she wears super hero underpants, then she needs to step up to the plate, lol.

So at about 92 percent of the book, the author decided to stop stringing her readers along and we have the reckoning. Even that scene was handled so much better by the H, the perfect book boyfriend. Th h finally decided to take responsibility for her life. By the time I get to the HEA, I was done. It was nice; just not satisfying. To each his own and this is not a 5 star read. It is just an angst driven book that I was glad when I got to the end. I am going to have to go and re-read a favorite book of mine to scrub my brain, lol.

[Dédé · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love & Happiness

Happiness in Jersey (The Prototype #1) is about bass player/ second vocalist of the Prototype Jersey Kincaid and guitarist Isaiah “Zay” Broussard. From the opening chapter you know Jersey is a little rough around the edges but it’s expected when you lose your mother as a newborn and your emotionally abusive drunk of a father blames you. She hooks up with dudes trying to feel some kind of pleasure but recently it’s left her feeling empty. Zay is the cousin of her bandmate Travis. The moment Jersey’s eyes meet his, he’s on pursuit. Zay is her sandpaper although he’s experienced loss he’s a bit more optimistic about life and has a loving family. Jersey’s band mates think she has a magnetic aura about her that guys just can’t resist, they warn her away from Zay. Too bad they’ve just voted Zay into the band and their attraction is mutual! Zay tells Jersey he likes her from the very beginning but since she doesn’t date they’ll be friends until she’s ready. Zay and Jersey have an electric chemistry, if they’re in the same room the air is charged. They talk about any and everything. Zay is not afraid to let his feelings be known, which I love 🥰 Ooh and when they play & sing together it’s magic! However Jersey fights it every step of the way, she pulls Zay in and she pushes him away constantly! 🥺 Her father is putting her through it and she takes it out on her roommate Willow and/or Zay. Her father is the king of gaslighting, he treats her terribly and then has the audacity to call her emotionally unstable 😤... It’s no wonder why she often turns her phone off and shuts out the world. Despite being guarded her friendship with her longtime best friend/ band mate Devin is beautiful they’re protective over one another but also call each other out on their bull. I love this chosen family! A rock/soul band made of Black college students 🙌🏽 trust me you need this! 

[Kizzy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another hit from Jacinta!!

I received an ARC for my honest opinion. Three words: I LOVED IT!!

Like her other book, I felt connected to the characters, which I liked. Jersey is in a band with her friends Devin, Travis and Bam. Travis' cousin Isaiah (Zay) comes over while they are practicing and he is instantly drawn to her.(calling her Kitten)..She tried to convince him and everyone else that she was not interested in him, but as time goes on, that changes.

Jersey is a strong young woman and she has some issues all due to her father. what a piece of work he was. I felt bad for her because she felt that she couldn't be loved or was capable of loving someone, but Zay was there letting her know otherwise. He was amazing! We learn something about him too and it breaks your heart to know the hurt he went through.

He joined the band singing and the chemistry between him and Jersey was amazing. A favorite part of mine was him singing Marvin Gaye to Jersey and it was so heartfelt. He was so patient with her and wouldn't take no for an answer. There was a point where I wondered why Jersey acted the way she did (after that beautiful connection they shared)..causing more hurt for the both of them. Do they make their way back to each other? You have to read to find out!!

Let me just say another couple to look out for are Willow and Devin. I loved them too and hope we get their book in the future. I wouldn't mind one for Travis and Bam either ;)

Add this book to your TBR list today! You'll be drawn in from the beginning. Jacinta, awesome job and I can't wait for the next one!

[Ciarra Hodges · Rating 5 out of 5]

So I finished the book. It was great just as I knew it would be! I think I feel I love with Zay a little lol. But seriously, it was great. It was a reminder of the power of love. It took me back too... To a time when possibilities were endless & I thought I was grown lol. So although the target audience is the younger crowd, I'm sure the older crowd would enjoy it as well because it has the power to bring you back to teenage years.

It's very refreshing. It also takes you away from life. When I'm reading, I acknowledge and admire a book that can really create a new reality for me.

I'm a sucker for layers! This book has tons of layers & I think that's the difference between telling a good story and creating a great story.

Last thing! Usually, as readers we tend to go along with what the main character is doing but I was pleased to find that I was able to relate to all of the characters. Although I do relate to Jersey in more ways than one. I really enjoyed the book.

[Whit · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love a book that can make me happy and angry at the same time! Add music, a stage and a rock and roll band, to the recipe, and I'm good to go.

Both Jersey and Zay have huge trust issues because they lost family members; her mother and his brother and sister, in horrible and unexpected ways. As a result, Jersey and Zay turn to the wrong people and things for comfort.

Jersey's mom died when Jersey was NINE WEEKS OLD, and Jersey's gutless, cruel and selfish father blames her. So she loses herself in mindless sex and then wonders why the guys disrespect her. Can Zay rescue Jersey in time and show her what true love really looks like or is it too late?

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an APB Perspective Review.. Well I am finally done... and the notation from the author at the back helped me understand my difficulty initially with the book. With that said. ..I have again fallen in love with Jacinta's writing. HIJ is a layered read. She took us on a journey through the many layers that made Jersey the girl I grew to Love. I was a Zay fan out the gate and Jersey needed a strong Male character to help counter act that NO good SOAB called her dad. The emotional growth was told in real life speed. This book is very indicative of her growth as a writer as it fosteted the amazing skills revealed in Better than okay. Nice job Ms. Howard

[Tina Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deep...

This story was very Intriguing and very Deep. It pulls at the heart and soul. I laughed and I cried because I felt as if I were there living Jersey's life. Character Chemistry was on point as in each Jacinta Howard book I've read. I would love to read more from Jersey, Zay, Devin, Willow, Travis, and Bam. Learning to Trust and Love when you're not used to having either is very difficult and can sometimes cause you to give up on ever obtaining it. This is an absolute must read story that's Deep and Filled with all kinds of Emotions. Don't Sleep on One Clicking this Incredible Read!
T

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

At first I thought that I was too old to read books about college students, but I think that this is a beautifully written story for all ages. It's not just a great love story, it's a story about pain, loss, moving on, not letting your past define you, the therapeutic effect of music, and realizing that love is worth the risk. Loved it! Now if I could only find my own Zay... :)

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a deep and profound love story between Zay and Jersey. I really enjoyed it.

[Lustful Literature · Rating 5 out of 5]

** MEGAN's 5 STAR REVIEW **

This quite possibly be the hardest review I’ve had to write. Why? Well, because my words won’t come close to how awesomely awesome this book is. I’ve highlighted my butt off and I want to add so many quotes or simple lines because I’ll never be able to tell you how I feel when I read it. I will try though.



I just came off a stellar 3-book series and I probably was an idiot to start a book the next day because I thought I’d be in a book hang-over. But, I guess when a book is good like Happiness in Jersey my book hangover will just be extended! I am soooo OKAY with that!



The first sentence I smiled.



The first paragraph I repeated out loud to my husband and we both laughed. And then when she put on her Spider-man undies I knew I would be all about this book!

Jersey- aka “Cookie Monster” is a oreo eating, bass playing, Different World obsessed college student who isn’t looking for her one. She has fun with some but she isn’t interested in love anything. She’s grade driven and constantly worried so she won’t loose her scholarship. I have to admit, I kind of fell for her actually!!! I loved her attitude, her mannerism, her flare. She was quick-witted, snarky and hilarious. She didn’t take crap from anyone.



One of my favorite parts of a romance book is when the two ‘meant to be’ characters meet for the first time. There is something about that first interaction, that first hello, the first smile. When it’s done good I feel the flutter in my tummy. When Jersey and Zay meet- I FELT IT!!!!! I felt myself grinning deep when Jersey locked eyes with “Zay” in the middle of her band’s rehearsal. The entire time she sang and he stared I was so content with what was happening on my kindle.



‘A pair of gray eyes were staring right at me. They belonged to a face I hadn’t seen before and definitely wasn’t expecting. His eyes trained on mine, peering at me like he knew me.’



Isaiah “Zay” Broussard- let’s have a chat about Zay, shall we?! Well first off, I love him. Not only because we share the same last name, but simple because of HIM. He was fun, cute, playful, very genuine, he had the perfect comebacks for Jersey. The exchange between them, for a reader, the best type to read.




“So, it’s Zay as in Isaiah?”

“Yep. So, it’s Jersey as in …New?”

“Are you an as_ as in …hole?”

“You’re cute kitten.”

“Just don’t call me kitten,

“Okay, Kitten, I’ll try.”

Do you know how hard it is to find books with adorably spontaneous connection that makes you feel like you are a teenager lusting over the hot guy in class? Those butterflies twirling around deep down. Your cheeks pinned up in a smile.

“You’re beautiful and adorable. My favorite combination.”

“I guess I should feel special now?”

“You should always feel special, Kitten. You obviously didn’t watch enough Barney growing up.”

“I was more of a Power Ranger’s girl.”

I know in all books there must be some mystery, some hidden plot that at 70% we will drop our jaw in unbelievablity. But I LOVE when there is no mystery when one of the characters can easily admit that he/she likes the other. I find that even cuter than the brooding male keeping his feelings hidden until finally he gives a nice “baby” term of endearment when he finally realizes he likes/loves the girl.


“I like you.”

“I’m thrilled.”

“That almost hurt my feelings.”

“You think you really know me well enough to like me?”

“I asked Travis a lot more than you think.”


Jersey and Zay both have personal issues that they keep to themselves. Zay is a little more open with who he lets in while Jersey keeps the select few she lets in close and when she starts letting her thoughts run wild you slowly see she’s alone in the world besides her ‘family’…her small in number family. But Zay just might be what she needs….. He just has to get in there. Zay being “Zay” does just what she needs and just what I love. He’s there. Around the corner, after her work, at school, at practice. There when she needs. A friend. Some one who she can talk to…open up to.


“I think I fell a little bit in love with you again today, FYI.”

“What happens when you fall all the way in love with me? I’m pretty irresistible”

“You are irresistible, Kitten. Think you can handle it when that happens?”

“Because I think I kind might be halfway there already.”


She’s dealing with, now in our literary world, normal issues but for her and the way it comes across I sympathize with her. She’s off to college, taking care of herself-nothing new there. When her only living family treats her as though she’s a long distant relative. Zay tries and tries and never gives up (another redeeming quality of his) He knows she’s dealing with something heavy and he knows kid gloves are needed but she doesn’t want to let anyone in. But she really can’t help it when it’s Isaiah.


Now, the good stuff right. I’m sure you are shaking your head going- now the good stuff? What was all that ^^ ??!!! That was just a little of the great stuff. People! I can’t quote the entire thing!!


GO BUY IT!!!


5 STARS! FIVE amazing, awesome, butterflies in my stomach, smiling, swoon-tastic STARS!!!

This was just the book I needed after finished a heavy series. It was so very goosebumpy all the way through. I was excited every time Zay was on the page. How can I not give this 5 stars when this is MY kind of book.


“So, can I keep you?”

[Mstcat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this book! Really! So beautifully written and gripping. Review to come...

Here's my full review of Happiness in Jersey

Happiness in Jersey is the opposite of wack. In fact, it's anti-wack! Okay, I'm gonna stop with the "wack" references for now (there are a few very cute scenes where this word comes up - I couldn't help myself!), and I'm going to get to my review. I want to say upfront that I hate YA books. Okay hate might be a tad strong, but they aren't my favorite. That said, I loved Happiness in Jersey! Loved it!

What it is about: Happiness in Jersey is about a young woman named Jersey. Jersey is a sophomore in college, lives on campus, has a perfectly sweet roommate named Willow, and a best friend named Devin. Devin has been Jersey's friend since they were kids. Both Devin and Jersey are members of a band named Prototype, where Jersey plays bass and Devin the drums. She is a girl that doesn't form emotional attachments, particularly with the opposite sex. In her mind death is the only certainty in life, and love is just a fabrication. She has sex, but doesn't date or have boyfriends. Her past is a sad one in which she grew up with an alcoholic father who seemed to blame her for the death of her mother who suffered from postpartum depression and committed suicide when Jersey was just a baby. But then Jersey meets Isaiah, (everybody calls him Zay). Zay is the cousin of one of the band members and he's just moved from New Orleans. It doesn't take long for Zay to become interested in Jersey and she in him. As Jersey gets to Know Zay she discovers he's more than just good looks. He seems to understand her on a level that no one else does. And for a girl like Jersey that is terrifying.

This is such a wonderful book that I find I don't have to go into great depth about what I liked or disliked about it. It was a beautifully written story about falling in love, but it was also about fighting fear and overcoming the sorrow, unhappiness, and loss of the past for the promise of the future. We get fantastic secondary characters who are there for more than just window dressing. Willow, Devin, Trav, and Bam are all fleshed out characters with distinctive personalities. They each have a role in the story and in Jersey's (and Zay's) life. Readers also get a heroine that's far from cookie cutter, and some of the best banter I've read in a long time. There isn't much more that I can say without taking away from the experience of reading Happiness in Jersey. If you are like me you'll laugh, cry a little, get angry and frustrated, and fall a little bit in love with Zay yourself. I so recommend getting this book and taking the journey with Jersey as she discovers her happiness. Happiness in Jersey gets a 5 out of 5 rating from me. As for the author Jacinta Howard? Well, she's got a new fan.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review

Catch more of my reviews at http://romancebetweenthecovers.blogsp...

[EatSleepReadReview · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding that one person in life who makes you a better person is never easy. Love takes time and patience. It also takes two people willing to make it work. But when your soul has been trampled on and beaten down to the point that you don't feel as if you deserve the happiness they can give you, it makes for a tough and rocky relationship, even if you know that relationship can be everything you want it to be. Such is the story of Jersey and Zay.

Emotionally broken and carrying around a ton of baggage, Jersey is a tough character to like in the beginning. Her past is truly heartbreaking and you so badly want to understand and sympathize with her, but at the same time, smack her upside the head for some of her actions. Living with an emotionally and verbally abusive father after losing her mother, hardened her in ways no one should have to be. Mentally she tries to come across tough, but we all know it's those types who are usually hurting the worst and it's only a matter of time until they fall apart.

Zay is perfect in every aspect. I mean, I totally fell in love with him. He's beautiful, talented, flawed, tough and just about the sweetest damn man on earth. Dealing with his own issues, he's been where Jersey's at, so he understand where she's coming from and through that understanding, he commits himself to helping her work through her past. But, please don't take his sweetness and confuse it with being a mushy pushover, because he's anything but. Jealous and opinionated, he has alpha tendencies without being severely dominating. He's patient, kind, but also more than willing to call Jersey out on her actions and feelings. I honestly think he's the most perfect hero that I have ever come across. There is just something about him you can't help but love.

"That wall you have up? I'm patient and curious enough to find out what behind it."

Full of emotions that literally drive this story home, Happiness in Jersey is an outstanding read, which I'd highly recommend. I teetered on the edge of 4 or 5 stars. Four only because it took me a while to get into it. The beginning is a bit slow and as I mentioned, Jersey isn't one that you immediately fall in love with. Five because when it takes off, it drags you in and you won't want to put it down. It's one you'll be thinking about when your away from the story and continue to care for and want to know about the characters even after it comes to an end. For me that is always deserving of a five star read.

Clear and beautiful writing with believable and attention grabbing dialogue, Ms. Howard delivers a heart-wrenching tale of finding that one person in life who makes you whole.

A complimentary copy was received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Beyond the Pages with Eva K · Rating 3 out of 5]

Happiness in Jersey was a deeply emotional book. Not only was it about a couple comIng together, it was also about two individuals learning to forgive themselves and to move on from their troubled pasts.

Jersey, the main character, was a scarred, scared, empty young woman upon first meeting. She was a user who seemed to think running through males was what she deserved. She would not commit to anyone. She only committed to herself, her schooling, and her music. It was obvious that she was searching. She was lost.

Jersey's past was one of abuse, neglect, loneliness, and isolation. She was drowning under the weight of her father's ridicule, as well as haunted by the death of her mother. And therein was the problem.

Zay, Jersey's bandmate, friend, lover, and ultimately her love, was... Well, he was something. He was attracted to Jersey from the get go. He was drawn to her and he had no problem letting her know it. He was direct, mature, patient, passionate, romantic, sensitive, and unreal. Where Jersey was concerned, he was hopelessly fallen. This man loved this woman - his woman - fiercely, despite all her fears and reservations.

I loved how protective Zay was of Jersey. I loved how he tried to shield her. He respected and loved her even when she did not respect or love herself.

I found it interesting how even though Jersey hurt Zay a lot, she was also mindful of his feelings. Of his hurts. Of his loss. The anniversary scene of his siblings death and her mother's birthday was touching. It was noteworthy because it was a major turning point for both of them.

The way these two came together was so explosive for want of a better word. The emotional connection, the physical chemistry, it was all right somehow.

The supporting characters in this book were great. I would certainly read some of their stories. Willow and Devin intrigued me.

This book was not necessarily the easiest read for me. It did not pull me in right away, but as I kept going, I wanted to see Jersey and Zay move past themselves and to make it happen in terms of a relationship. I wanted them to work. I especially wanted to see Jersey get to the place where she would stop seeing herself so negatively or so unworthy and broken.

Lastly, this book had such a sweet ending. I loved that Jersey found a home, a family, and a true partner who loved her unconditionally.

Rating: 3/5
Audience: Adult
Status: Mature (adult situations, sexual content)

A complimentary e-copy of this title was made available for review in exchange for an honest critique. The words I have shared are my own.

[Jeraca · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really liked this book. Originally I got it from Netgalley as an eARC but shortly found out that the book they gave me free was only the first 4 chapters and I gave in and bought the whole book because I needed to know what happened with Zay and Jersey. So yeah, ended up getting scammed it seems like but I liked the novel so it wasn't a total dud.

I liked Jersey. She stuck to what she wanted and didn't let anyone change her mind. She was actually more like a guy than guys were - didn't want commitment or any of the gushy girl stuff.

Zay was awesome. He definitely fought for Jersey and was always putting her in the corner trying to fight her way out. He knew when to push and when to back off. Zay knew they would be together eventually and knew when to pick his battles.

Glad I read this. Wish I would have gotten the whole book for free but I didn't feel like I wasted my time or money when I bought it on Amazon. I think a lot of readers will really enjoy this book.

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

Another Great Read- BRAB Online Book Club

Jersey Kincaid has had a tough childhood, never actually knowing her mother and living with an emotionally abusive father; resulted in some very bad choices. Her saving grace was playing bass in a band with her best friend Devin, while attending college.

Isaiah "Zay" Broussard, was a young man who experienced a very tragic event when he lost his brother and sister in an accident. As part of his healing process, he left New Orleans for a fresh start. The first time he saw Jersey rehearsing with her band, he felt an instant attraction.

The author's great storytelling skill comes into play as she takes her readers on Jersey and Zay's journey towards healing. It is brilliantly written and took me along for the emotional ride. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more of her work in the future.

[Smutty Feminist · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first read by this author and she immediately became a favorite author for me. This story has stuck with me - I feel like Jersey and Zay live in my heart and this whole series lives in my mind rent free. Cannot say enough about how moving, trauma-informed, and healing Howard's writing is! Gorgeous and poetic! And Wesleigh Siobhan -- she is EVERYTHING. Love, love, LOVE this story, series, and narration!

[L. Boogie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read another book by Jacinta and really enjoyed it. Really like the way she writes, with that being said, Jersey was so annoying to me, not all of the time but quite often. I understand her childhood issues and all however there were times I just wanted to grab her and shake her. Nonetheless I will still read book two and hope I enjoy Kennedy so much more

[reneeNaDaCherry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Happiness In Jersey (The Prototype Book 1)

This novel is about Zay Broussard and Jersey Kincaid's life and 💘 story. I read these books in the opposite order and it worked for me. It's all 💘 though, right?