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A Worthy Love: Rise & Fall Series, Book 4
Publicly humiliated, Marisa Banks is blindsided by the news that the man she's been dating for months is married.
Being called names she wouldn't wish on anyone in front of a room full of people by her boyfriend's wife is enough to shake her identity to its foundations. In an attempt to rebuild, she makes a few questionable decisions.
Asher Blaine is one of them. He's intelligent and sexy, but the pedestal he's got himself up on is unshakeable. Or so he thinks. Marisa asks for the one thing he can't deny her, even if it's the craziest thing he's ever done.
She wants one night, his best eight hours. And damn if he doesn't deliver. The next morning, her bubble is shattered by his loud mouth, and Marisa retaliates with a stiletto and a remote. The best night of her life is over, and she's more than happy to walk away a free woman.
Asher's job sends him to Marisa's city, and when they cross paths again, it's Asher's turn to make an offer. And just like him, she can't refuse.
Will her worst nightmare and his complicated past ruin what they're building, or can they lean on one another to make it through?
Being called names she wouldn't wish on anyone in front of a room full of people by her boyfriend's wife is enough to shake her identity to its foundations. In an attempt to rebuild, she makes a few questionable decisions.
Asher Blaine is one of them. He's intelligent and sexy, but the pedestal he's got himself up on is unshakeable. Or so he thinks. Marisa asks for the one thing he can't deny her, even if it's the craziest thing he's ever done.
She wants one night, his best eight hours. And damn if he doesn't deliver. The next morning, her bubble is shattered by his loud mouth, and Marisa retaliates with a stiletto and a remote. The best night of her life is over, and she's more than happy to walk away a free woman.
Asher's job sends him to Marisa's city, and when they cross paths again, it's Asher's turn to make an offer. And just like him, she can't refuse.
Will her worst nightmare and his complicated past ruin what they're building, or can they lean on one another to make it through?
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Published April 16, 2024
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A.E. Valdez
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 944 reviews
December 1, 2022
After being submerged in the worlds of Acyn, Kyrell and Asher for the past few days, I literally cannot decide which of these men I loved most so instead let me just say “all aboard” 🚂🤣🤣 🗣️don’t judge me judge ya mammy!!! These men stole my heart!! It’s no secret that when men fall in love they fall HARD and reading the way these men loved on their women gave me all the feels! 🥰🥰
If you’ve been following this crew from the beginning then we know that Asher has always been the certified fxck boy of the group. He had zero interest in settling down with anyone. As his friends around him began to settle down and start families, he realizes he was suddenly the odd man out and reevaluating his priorities. We got a glimpse of Asher and Marisa’s shenanigans during Acyn and Harlow’s bachelor / bachelorette party in Vegas (I won’t spoil it if you haven’t read) and from then it was clear that these two were destined to be together even if they didn’t realize it fully.
Asher is a successful Architectural Engineer and set to take over the family business. A special project brings him to Portland and now he is in close proximity to Marisa. Marisa is a successful business owners and has a yoga studio and smoothie bar. Since what happened in Vegas didn’t stay in Vegas it’s safe to say that these two have a tense reunion. Marisa takes out an ad for a roommate after she decides she wants to upgrade a few thing in her yoga studio and in true Ash fashion, he’s determined to be her roommate and let’s just say things got deep in the deepest way possible. The trauma these two dealt with individually and collectively was bound to create a bond and reading it come to life on these pages was absolutely beautiful! Asher!!!! Who knew this was the real you!! 🥰🥰🥰 Jeez this was such a great story! There were so many layers in these 500 pages! I always question an author when I see that the number of pages in a story in more than 300. Like do we really need this many?! And it never fails….we needed that many pages! 😩🤧
It goes without saying that Reese was trash but man!!! Let me just say he was trash personified, trash squared! The founder of the trash committee!!! 😒🤬
I loved this crew so much I’m not ready to say goodbye! I hope Grayson gets a book so that I can hold on a bit longer! Add these books to your TBR list asap!!
If you’ve been following this crew from the beginning then we know that Asher has always been the certified fxck boy of the group. He had zero interest in settling down with anyone. As his friends around him began to settle down and start families, he realizes he was suddenly the odd man out and reevaluating his priorities. We got a glimpse of Asher and Marisa’s shenanigans during Acyn and Harlow’s bachelor / bachelorette party in Vegas (I won’t spoil it if you haven’t read) and from then it was clear that these two were destined to be together even if they didn’t realize it fully.
Asher is a successful Architectural Engineer and set to take over the family business. A special project brings him to Portland and now he is in close proximity to Marisa. Marisa is a successful business owners and has a yoga studio and smoothie bar. Since what happened in Vegas didn’t stay in Vegas it’s safe to say that these two have a tense reunion. Marisa takes out an ad for a roommate after she decides she wants to upgrade a few thing in her yoga studio and in true Ash fashion, he’s determined to be her roommate and let’s just say things got deep in the deepest way possible. The trauma these two dealt with individually and collectively was bound to create a bond and reading it come to life on these pages was absolutely beautiful! Asher!!!! Who knew this was the real you!! 🥰🥰🥰 Jeez this was such a great story! There were so many layers in these 500 pages! I always question an author when I see that the number of pages in a story in more than 300. Like do we really need this many?! And it never fails….we needed that many pages! 😩🤧
It goes without saying that Reese was trash but man!!! Let me just say he was trash personified, trash squared! The founder of the trash committee!!! 😒🤬
I loved this crew so much I’m not ready to say goodbye! I hope Grayson gets a book so that I can hold on a bit longer! Add these books to your TBR list asap!!
November 10, 2022
when i read all i ever wanted, all i ever needed i thought there’s no way a.e. valdez could write another man that would come close to acyn. then i read colliding with fate and fell in love with kyrell. now he didn’t knock acyn out the top spot but boy did he come close. then walks in ASHER MF BLAINE. i’m sorry ace. you fought a good fight but got dammit, asher is just that guy.
i’m an absolute sucker for a loveable asshole. it’s something that makes me want to hug them…with my hands wrapped around their neck. asher is that and so much more. he did not play when it came to marisa. no matter how flawed she thought she was, he accepted and supported her. i loved him as a side character in the previous books but by the time i got to the end of this book he was hands down my favorite character.
oh and let’s talk about miss marisa banks! i thoroughly enjoyed getting to know her in this book. being the oldest sibling is a thankless jobs sometimes and a lot us (myself included) grow up feeling robbed. we mourn for the things we didn’t get to do because we had to help take care of our siblings. we grieve the loss of the relationship we yearn to have with our parents because they see us as a partner and not their child. we battle with guilt when we finally gain the strength to say no because we decided to set boundaries and put ourselves first. it’s A LOT but i think marisa handled in a way a lot of readers will resonate with.
marisa had this air of hyper independence because she’s never had anyone to lean on. she never had anyone she could be soft with. she fought asher every chance she got until she realized not only could she trust him to catch her when she fell but he would use his last breath to take care of her. the bond between these two had me giggling and kicking my feet all over the place. i can’t wait for you guys to fall in love with this book like i did.
i’m an absolute sucker for a loveable asshole. it’s something that makes me want to hug them…with my hands wrapped around their neck. asher is that and so much more. he did not play when it came to marisa. no matter how flawed she thought she was, he accepted and supported her. i loved him as a side character in the previous books but by the time i got to the end of this book he was hands down my favorite character.
oh and let’s talk about miss marisa banks! i thoroughly enjoyed getting to know her in this book. being the oldest sibling is a thankless jobs sometimes and a lot us (myself included) grow up feeling robbed. we mourn for the things we didn’t get to do because we had to help take care of our siblings. we grieve the loss of the relationship we yearn to have with our parents because they see us as a partner and not their child. we battle with guilt when we finally gain the strength to say no because we decided to set boundaries and put ourselves first. it’s A LOT but i think marisa handled in a way a lot of readers will resonate with.
marisa had this air of hyper independence because she’s never had anyone to lean on. she never had anyone she could be soft with. she fought asher every chance she got until she realized not only could she trust him to catch her when she fell but he would use his last breath to take care of her. the bond between these two had me giggling and kicking my feet all over the place. i can’t wait for you guys to fall in love with this book like i did.
May 18, 2023
This book was absolutely beautiful! 5 billion stars!
I love this friend group!! It’s just so healthy and genuine I think that’s why I cried so much because this is really goodbye 🥹🫶🏾
I loved how relatable Marisa’s character was for me, even though I feel like a lot of people can relate to her. At one point in this story, she and I experienced the same thing, her thoughts and feelings were exactly how I felt. That just goes to show how real & raw A.E. Valdez characters are. In the other books in this series, she comes off as very carefree and spontaneous, but there is so much more layers to her, I just love how her character was written. I’m a Ace girlie, but Asher takes the cake for me. He is the most mature, patient and understanding person. Asher radiates dominant energy, there’s just something so assertive about him you know? Like if he told me to go make him a sandwich at 3AM, I’m going to get up and make him a sandwich, no questions ask. Marisa’s and Asher story was so emotional, there was so much trauma bonding, they really healed each other. I can’t get enough of them!!
I love this friend group!! It’s just so healthy and genuine I think that’s why I cried so much because this is really goodbye 🥹🫶🏾
I loved how relatable Marisa’s character was for me, even though I feel like a lot of people can relate to her. At one point in this story, she and I experienced the same thing, her thoughts and feelings were exactly how I felt. That just goes to show how real & raw A.E. Valdez characters are. In the other books in this series, she comes off as very carefree and spontaneous, but there is so much more layers to her, I just love how her character was written. I’m a Ace girlie, but Asher takes the cake for me. He is the most mature, patient and understanding person. Asher radiates dominant energy, there’s just something so assertive about him you know? Like if he told me to go make him a sandwich at 3AM, I’m going to get up and make him a sandwich, no questions ask. Marisa’s and Asher story was so emotional, there was so much trauma bonding, they really healed each other. I can’t get enough of them!!
February 12, 2023
I wanted to love this because I enjoyed “Colliding with Fate” . But it was a little off for me and the part where she has sex with one guy and then about an hour later has sex with Asher just gave me “ick” vibes. It didn’t feel like a romance just a story of two people having sex.
February 12, 2023
I know Asher is Marisa's man but....he's also my man 🤷🏾♀️ we'll just have to be like SZA on the weekend because we're sister wives now. I loved him so much. Such a well written male character. This book had a lot going for it.
1. Comedy✔️
2. Well written layered main characters ✔️
3. Great banter✔️
4. Characters realizing they have trauma that needs to be worked through and going to therapy. I'm really loving how more and more black romance books are including therapy. It's very much needed and very much appreciated.✔️
5. Great chemistry✔️ I loved how Marisa and Asher's relationship went from being fuckenemies(his words) to roommates, to friends, to best friends to lovers. The transition was well put together and I loved it.✔️
6. Boundaries. Both Marisa and Asher had issues with their parents. I love how they set Boundaries for what they would and wouldn't allow them to do.✔️
7. Adding on to the family unit. Even though their relationship with their parents were a bit rocky. I loved how Marisa and her brother were really close and had a great relationship. I also loved how Asher was very close to his aunt and uncle. They've raised him since he was 12 so it was great seeing their relationship in the book. Also his relationship with his Gigi, Pop and little cousins he refers to as his nieces were cute as well✔️
8. I love how even though they developed a great friendship. They have their mutual friends as well. She has her girlfriends who are all really supportive and protective and he has his guys he's been cool with since childhood. I love this mutual black friendship circle they have going on.✔️
9. The fact that once Asher and Marisa got together and there was no miscommunication trope and unnecessary third act breakup for drama nobody asked for made me want to jump for joy. This is my first read from this author and I love her already for understanding the assignment and not ruining the story with badlywritten BS.✔️
10. Lastly, I really loved the way A.E. handled *the surprise*(no spoilers!!)early in this book. I 100% supported Marisa's decision and thought she made the right choice. I especially loved how Asher stood by her side the entire time. ✔️
The only cons I have is I felt like the Reese issue was dragged out longer than it should've. I was getting tired of him popping up and being mentioned constantly. While I understand he was an integral part of the story it still got old real quick. Also as I always say whenever I read a lengthy book. As good as this novel was I didn't think it needed to be this long. She definitely could've took off a 100 pages. Outside of that, I loved this story of two commitment phobe people scared to love finding their way to each other. 5/5 for me.
1. Comedy✔️
2. Well written layered main characters ✔️
3. Great banter✔️
4. Characters realizing they have trauma that needs to be worked through and going to therapy. I'm really loving how more and more black romance books are including therapy. It's very much needed and very much appreciated.✔️
5. Great chemistry✔️ I loved how Marisa and Asher's relationship went from being fuckenemies(his words) to roommates, to friends, to best friends to lovers. The transition was well put together and I loved it.✔️
6. Boundaries. Both Marisa and Asher had issues with their parents. I love how they set Boundaries for what they would and wouldn't allow them to do.✔️
7. Adding on to the family unit. Even though their relationship with their parents were a bit rocky. I loved how Marisa and her brother were really close and had a great relationship. I also loved how Asher was very close to his aunt and uncle. They've raised him since he was 12 so it was great seeing their relationship in the book. Also his relationship with his Gigi, Pop and little cousins he refers to as his nieces were cute as well✔️
8. I love how even though they developed a great friendship. They have their mutual friends as well. She has her girlfriends who are all really supportive and protective and he has his guys he's been cool with since childhood. I love this mutual black friendship circle they have going on.✔️
9. The fact that once Asher and Marisa got together and there was no miscommunication trope and unnecessary third act breakup for drama nobody asked for made me want to jump for joy. This is my first read from this author and I love her already for understanding the assignment and not ruining the story with badlywritten BS.✔️
10. Lastly, I really loved the way A.E. handled *the surprise*(no spoilers!!)early in this book. I 100% supported Marisa's decision and thought she made the right choice. I especially loved how Asher stood by her side the entire time. ✔️
The only cons I have is I felt like the Reese issue was dragged out longer than it should've. I was getting tired of him popping up and being mentioned constantly. While I understand he was an integral part of the story it still got old real quick. Also as I always say whenever I read a lengthy book. As good as this novel was I didn't think it needed to be this long. She definitely could've took off a 100 pages. Outside of that, I loved this story of two commitment phobe people scared to love finding their way to each other. 5/5 for me.
September 8, 2023
A. E Valdez was in her bag when she wrote this I adored this STORY so much my emotions were on 10 READING this I laughed and cried so hard .I love how BLACK LOVE was REPRESENTED without the TOXICITY , the RAWNESS and REALNESS of this story pulled me in instantly on how realistic it felt to me . The disney princess references , black business owners , the SPICE scences, I like and loved everything about A WORTHY LOVE .Don't get me started on ASHER BLAINE because BABYYYY Listen he can get it anytime anyplace. That was my man through and through I will be PEACH 😛. I went into this blind so I wasn't aware this was series I will be reading the rest .
March 23, 2025
And just when I thought Acyn couldn’t be topped here comes Asher😮💨
This story had a ton of layers and I enjoyed every last one of them. Asher and Marisa were too cute together.😍
I really loved that friendship was the foundation of their relationship after them technically being enemies so to speak.
At first I thought that the spice in this would over power the story and that wasn’t the case. It was balanced decently; however, I will say there was a lot of it🥵 It repeatedly seemed to come as soon as there was some depth being revealed which made it difficult to really get lost in the story. Nevertheless, I may or may not have taken some mental notes for a later date.
😜🌶️😂
I loved this one I’m definitely satisfied with the end of this AMAZING series💜🧘🏾♀️
This story had a ton of layers and I enjoyed every last one of them. Asher and Marisa were too cute together.😍
I really loved that friendship was the foundation of their relationship after them technically being enemies so to speak.
At first I thought that the spice in this would over power the story and that wasn’t the case. It was balanced decently; however, I will say there was a lot of it🥵 It repeatedly seemed to come as soon as there was some depth being revealed which made it difficult to really get lost in the story. Nevertheless, I may or may not have taken some mental notes for a later date.
😜🌶️😂
I loved this one I’m definitely satisfied with the end of this AMAZING series💜🧘🏾♀️
April 18, 2024
This is my favorite book and has been since I read it for the first time in November 2022.
Seriously this book gave me all the nostalgic memories; this is the feeling I had when I first fell in love with reading.
THANK YOU, Amanda, for writing this book!
Okay, now on to the review.
Marissa Banks is reeling from a humiliating horrific break up that has left her completely off kilter. In her attempt to heal herself, she makes a couple of questionable decisions one of those decisions being Asher Blaine. Asher is bold, sexy, confident, intelligent, and is unapologetic about it. He is intrigued by Marissa‘s beauty, and he finds himself wondering, whether there’s more than what meets the eye.
Marissa asked Asher for the one thing he can’t deny her, even if it’s the craziest thing he’s ever done. She wants one night, 8 full hours of his best. And boy does Asher deliver.
Asher quickly burst the bubble of their sexual bliss with his big mouth the next morning, which sends Marissa into a blind rage, and she hits him with a stiletto 😂.
Marissa had a great time with Asher probably the best night of her life but she’s willing to walk away happy and free.
Asher job lands him in Marissa city, and when they cross paths again, it’s Asher the one with the offer this time, and just like Asher, Marissa can’t resist. Will these two get out of their own way and allow love to bring them closer.
ASHER BLAINE!!!! This has my heart! That’s it that’s the review 😂 jk. But seriously this man is unmatched. He is protective, smart, funny, just the right amount of asshole, a go-getter, sensitive, respectful, ain’t broke and is ALL ABOUT MARISSA! This man was literally going through a very heavy situation of his own, but still manage to be everything Marissa needed him to be and not complain once! Homegirl didn’t even have to ask this man to do anything, he just did it!! He seriously couldn’t stay away from her, it’s one of my favorite aspects of the book was Asher’s persistence on being near Marissa. I’m not even sure he was aware of his NEED to be around. This man was learning recipes just so he can cook for her.
As far as Marissa, I feel like I see myself in her so much, I have definitely had periods of time where I felt unworthy of love, especially when you see love all around you, but it’s not happening in your life. It’s easy to feel like you’re unworthy. I’m happy that she didn’t allow that situation with Reese’s pieces to the prevent her from allowing Asher in.
Y’all, I really don’t know what else to say without giving away the whole book, do yourself a favor don’t walk, but run to go read this book. I will be raving about it for the rest of my life.
Book: A Worthy Love
Author: A.E. Valdez
Genre: Romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Seriously this book gave me all the nostalgic memories; this is the feeling I had when I first fell in love with reading.
THANK YOU, Amanda, for writing this book!
Okay, now on to the review.
Marissa Banks is reeling from a humiliating horrific break up that has left her completely off kilter. In her attempt to heal herself, she makes a couple of questionable decisions one of those decisions being Asher Blaine. Asher is bold, sexy, confident, intelligent, and is unapologetic about it. He is intrigued by Marissa‘s beauty, and he finds himself wondering, whether there’s more than what meets the eye.
Marissa asked Asher for the one thing he can’t deny her, even if it’s the craziest thing he’s ever done. She wants one night, 8 full hours of his best. And boy does Asher deliver.
Asher quickly burst the bubble of their sexual bliss with his big mouth the next morning, which sends Marissa into a blind rage, and she hits him with a stiletto 😂.
Marissa had a great time with Asher probably the best night of her life but she’s willing to walk away happy and free.
Asher job lands him in Marissa city, and when they cross paths again, it’s Asher the one with the offer this time, and just like Asher, Marissa can’t resist. Will these two get out of their own way and allow love to bring them closer.
ASHER BLAINE!!!! This has my heart! That’s it that’s the review 😂 jk. But seriously this man is unmatched. He is protective, smart, funny, just the right amount of asshole, a go-getter, sensitive, respectful, ain’t broke and is ALL ABOUT MARISSA! This man was literally going through a very heavy situation of his own, but still manage to be everything Marissa needed him to be and not complain once! Homegirl didn’t even have to ask this man to do anything, he just did it!! He seriously couldn’t stay away from her, it’s one of my favorite aspects of the book was Asher’s persistence on being near Marissa. I’m not even sure he was aware of his NEED to be around. This man was learning recipes just so he can cook for her.
As far as Marissa, I feel like I see myself in her so much, I have definitely had periods of time where I felt unworthy of love, especially when you see love all around you, but it’s not happening in your life. It’s easy to feel like you’re unworthy. I’m happy that she didn’t allow that situation with Reese’s pieces to the prevent her from allowing Asher in.
Y’all, I really don’t know what else to say without giving away the whole book, do yourself a favor don’t walk, but run to go read this book. I will be raving about it for the rest of my life.
Book: A Worthy Love
Author: A.E. Valdez
Genre: Romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
May 1, 2023
I absolutely loved this. Marisa is so strong and such an amazing character. I really loved how we can see her character development. Her and Asher are so cute and deserves everything good.
January 17, 2026
Asher was unapologetic about his love for Marisa and I loved that for her. She deserved to be cared for and loved on. Asher was her friend, her rock, her everything all while dealing with his own life issues.
The audacity that Marisa’s ex and that wife had chile may it never find me.
The audacity that Marisa’s ex and that wife had chile may it never find me.
December 28, 2024
Every single page was magical. The first series where I gave every book 5 stars. I thought AE did her big one with All I’ve Wanted, All I’ve Needed because the way i fell in love with that story blew my socks off. However, every book after got better and better. Like how the hell do you do that ma’am? Talk about almost a 500 page book and not one single word, sentence, or paragraph went to waste. AE has the ability to make you smile from within while reading her books. I don’t know which couple i like the most but i for sure love them all. Risa Belle and Asher’s connection/bond might put them a little over the others.
Asher just like Ace and Kyrell are BDE. When they love you best believe it is with every ounce of them. Asher handled her with so much care and tentativeness that he had me smitten. He spoke affirmations to our girl. That man that man that man. Asher and Risa both have stories from their up bringing that makes one understand why love to them is a touchy topic. Neither should have to go through any of that. On the upside they both made something of themselves and one can say when the right person came they both would know it. Love that they both were successful. AE is going to write some bomb ass friend groups that have amazing careers. Anyways, the banter between them was so damn good to the point how could they not be ment for each other. They accepted one another as they are and that’s beautiful. Proud that we get to see both mcs use their voice to let people in their family know how they’ve hurt them. There’s no growth and moving forward if y’all can’t discuss how you’ve got there in the first place. Asher was big on family. I would love to visit Little Slice of Heaven.
Reese was a piece of work! Straight trash to the 100th power. Then you got thirsty Francesca that can’t take a clue. It was funny to see her get upset when she had no room too. When Asher got ol buddy all the way together outside of the yoga business LOL. Matter of fact the agent part Asher did had me rolling. That man is a true gem. The very end of the book was perfect. Full circle moment.
Highlights:
-“Give me your fucking worst and I’ll give you my best.”
-Them on the horses, him playing in her hair, and the kisses on the head.
-“Would the regret be more bearable than the outcome of the risk?”
-“There’s a difference between what i allow people to see and what i allow them to know.”
-“Risa, you could be with a million other people, and you’ll always think of me.”
-“I was in the dark not realizing I’d need someone to turn on the light.”
-“I don’t want your peace. Give me your chaos.”
-“You can fall apart with me. I’ll keep you safe.”
-THE SPICE IS TOP NOTCH BABY!
Asher just like Ace and Kyrell are BDE. When they love you best believe it is with every ounce of them. Asher handled her with so much care and tentativeness that he had me smitten. He spoke affirmations to our girl. That man that man that man. Asher and Risa both have stories from their up bringing that makes one understand why love to them is a touchy topic. Neither should have to go through any of that. On the upside they both made something of themselves and one can say when the right person came they both would know it. Love that they both were successful. AE is going to write some bomb ass friend groups that have amazing careers. Anyways, the banter between them was so damn good to the point how could they not be ment for each other. They accepted one another as they are and that’s beautiful. Proud that we get to see both mcs use their voice to let people in their family know how they’ve hurt them. There’s no growth and moving forward if y’all can’t discuss how you’ve got there in the first place. Asher was big on family. I would love to visit Little Slice of Heaven.
Reese was a piece of work! Straight trash to the 100th power. Then you got thirsty Francesca that can’t take a clue. It was funny to see her get upset when she had no room too. When Asher got ol buddy all the way together outside of the yoga business LOL. Matter of fact the agent part Asher did had me rolling. That man is a true gem. The very end of the book was perfect. Full circle moment.
Highlights:
-“Give me your fucking worst and I’ll give you my best.”
-Them on the horses, him playing in her hair, and the kisses on the head.
-“Would the regret be more bearable than the outcome of the risk?”
-“There’s a difference between what i allow people to see and what i allow them to know.”
-“Risa, you could be with a million other people, and you’ll always think of me.”
-“I was in the dark not realizing I’d need someone to turn on the light.”
-“I don’t want your peace. Give me your chaos.”
-“You can fall apart with me. I’ll keep you safe.”
-THE SPICE IS TOP NOTCH BABY!
January 24, 2023
Marisa x Asher
This was a long behind book. NGL, between the 500 pages and the slow burn romance, I contemplated DNF this one. Would I have regretted it if I DNF'd this book? Absolutely. I would have hated myself. Slowly, we watched (read) Marisa and Asher fall in love. I don't mean "fall" loosely like we always use it. I mean they fell, tumbled, plummeted deep in love. And honestly, as they were falling in love, I too was falling for Asher. That man 🥰🥰
I don't know which I loved more. The love they developed for one another or the friendship he and Marisa formed.
But in the midst of the love and the friendship, lies immense trauma. From both sides. I loved Marisa. She was portrayed so well. Every action, every emotion, every feeling, every thought, whether it was good or bad, matched all that she went through: A woman who went through a traumatic humiliating breakup amd the aftermath of that breakup. Asher's burden wasn't light either. But I kind of feel like his was overshadowed by Marissa's. But I don’t know what to say about him. That man is indescribable. (You have to read the book to see what I mean).
The author gave us many amazing things in this story. Things like amazing character development, a bit of fairytale and a whole lot of real life.
Y'all, where do men get audacity? Better yet, where does Reese get audacity? That man is sick. Like he's not well. Reese is the sorriest excuse for a man.
But all this to say
👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
The story was absolutely amazing. This author has become one of my faves. You will laugh, you will cry, you'll get angry and you will swoon. Please, read this book.
P.s. I thought Zion was sweet. If I crossed my fingers hard enough, y'all think we'd get a novella update on him and Francesca?
10/5⭐️
This was a long behind book. NGL, between the 500 pages and the slow burn romance, I contemplated DNF this one. Would I have regretted it if I DNF'd this book? Absolutely. I would have hated myself. Slowly, we watched (read) Marisa and Asher fall in love. I don't mean "fall" loosely like we always use it. I mean they fell, tumbled, plummeted deep in love. And honestly, as they were falling in love, I too was falling for Asher. That man 🥰🥰
I don't know which I loved more. The love they developed for one another or the friendship he and Marisa formed.
But in the midst of the love and the friendship, lies immense trauma. From both sides. I loved Marisa. She was portrayed so well. Every action, every emotion, every feeling, every thought, whether it was good or bad, matched all that she went through: A woman who went through a traumatic humiliating breakup amd the aftermath of that breakup. Asher's burden wasn't light either. But I kind of feel like his was overshadowed by Marissa's. But I don’t know what to say about him. That man is indescribable. (You have to read the book to see what I mean).
The author gave us many amazing things in this story. Things like amazing character development, a bit of fairytale and a whole lot of real life.
Y'all, where do men get audacity? Better yet, where does Reese get audacity? That man is sick. Like he's not well. Reese is the sorriest excuse for a man.
But all this to say
👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
The story was absolutely amazing. This author has become one of my faves. You will laugh, you will cry, you'll get angry and you will swoon. Please, read this book.
P.s. I thought Zion was sweet. If I crossed my fingers hard enough, y'all think we'd get a novella update on him and Francesca?
10/5⭐️
August 28, 2024
Omg! Asher! It’s been a minute since I’ve gotten teary eyed over a book. I love that man. This was probably my favorite book of the series. Marisa deserved to know and feel that she is worthy.
November 15, 2022
Gotta Love this Couple
Asher stole my heart from the start. Book two showed his nerdy, manly, quite selfish side. Then, book three delivered the man I suspected lived deep down inside his soul. I hoped the Marisa we met initially would have more dimension to her personality than the initial offering. Her lifestyle wasn't what I preferred but to each its own. Folks are free with love offerings these days, and who am I to judge? I will not be casting stones... Overall, I enjoyed Asher and Risa Belle's relationship. She needed someone she could trust. Reese was not that man.
I would have never guessed the ex was as shady and grimy as we discovered later in the story. Reese was worst than I initially expected. But Asher replaced Reese and his flaws with a solid man Risa could trust to safeguard her heart. Some of the scenes read the same as in the other two books, but I'm sure this will change as the author hones her skills. Overall, this was another very good story. 4.75 stars.
Asher stole my heart from the start. Book two showed his nerdy, manly, quite selfish side. Then, book three delivered the man I suspected lived deep down inside his soul. I hoped the Marisa we met initially would have more dimension to her personality than the initial offering. Her lifestyle wasn't what I preferred but to each its own. Folks are free with love offerings these days, and who am I to judge? I will not be casting stones... Overall, I enjoyed Asher and Risa Belle's relationship. She needed someone she could trust. Reese was not that man.
I would have never guessed the ex was as shady and grimy as we discovered later in the story. Reese was worst than I initially expected. But Asher replaced Reese and his flaws with a solid man Risa could trust to safeguard her heart. Some of the scenes read the same as in the other two books, but I'm sure this will change as the author hones her skills. Overall, this was another very good story. 4.75 stars.
April 6, 2023
This book definitely could have been shorter. I usually LOVE long books and a 500 page book seemed like a good time to me, but bayyybe! This book DRAGS! This definitely should have been a 260ish page book at most.
I will say that I thought that for the most part, the book is well written. It was actually refreshing reading a romance from an author that seemed to actually have a care for their writing.
If you want a messy, drama filled romance, then this book might be up your alley. Just prepare to be bored to tears at the 300 page mark.
I will say that I thought that for the most part, the book is well written. It was actually refreshing reading a romance from an author that seemed to actually have a care for their writing.
If you want a messy, drama filled romance, then this book might be up your alley. Just prepare to be bored to tears at the 300 page mark.
June 20, 2023
Asher and Marisa are everything to me. I read these books out of order by starting with this one and I don’t even care. This book was perfection. I love the friendship these two built. I love how human and real they felt. Asher is one of the sweetest book boyfriends and the bde was so strong with this one ! The banter and the small moments between them made me love the story even more. I LOOOVE that when both of these characters experienced trauma, they didn’t magically get over everything, they went to therapy. I was afraid for a moment about a *surprise* trope that I’m not the biggest fan of, but the way it was handled was perfect and solidified this as one of my new favorite books. I say this a lot, but I genuinely cannot wait to reread this.
May 16, 2024
I cannot recommend the audiobooks of A.E. Valdez's Rise and Falls series enough! The way the narrators bring the characters to life and immerse you in the story is exceptional. It's like being transported to another world entirely. The sound quality is also top-notch, making it an enjoyable and seamless listening experience. If you're a fan of the series or enjoy audiobooks, you won't regret listening to these!
4.5 ⭐️ Series
4.5 ⭐️ Series
May 21, 2023
I’ll be back after I collect my thoughts.
Asher & Marisa. They can’t stand each other and they don’t know why. He’s an asshole and she’s hostile/violent. I gave the book a harsh side eye on the very first page and was sentences away from DNFing. Why you ask? Because she asked him to marry her and I can’t stand that shit in real life or in books. Cause why y’all heffas be proposing to a man🤬.
One night only in Vegas as husband and wife and all that it entails is what’s she’s offering. It’s perfect night for both of them. Then the sun comes up and Asher shows his entire ass. Thier best friends are married so they can’t really avoid each other forever but they keep thier distance afterwards. Until Risa, as he calls her, needs a room mate and he pushes his way into her home.
Even thought they can’t stand each other the way that they fall into an easy rhythm while cohabiting is organic even if the sex may or may not complicate things. He takes care of her,protects her,provides for her. She comforts him, cares for him, and listens to him. Life is hitting hard for both of them and they stand by each other through it all. Nothing comes between them , not Zion , not Franny,. They created a life together with out even realizing it. So once Asher realizes that his heart belongs to Risa Belle he waste no time in claiming her. The best part is that nothing really changes after he does but thier title and the end of that silly bet. They have a romance between them that had been brewing under all that negative energy and violence. The banter between the two is hilarious. The chaos of thier “foreplay” is enticing. They have nasty sex, the good kind. I recommend this book if you like a organic romance that has a happily ever after.
The only question I have is why didn’t we get a real description of Ash and Risa other than they both have curly hair?
Asher & Marisa. They can’t stand each other and they don’t know why. He’s an asshole and she’s hostile/violent. I gave the book a harsh side eye on the very first page and was sentences away from DNFing. Why you ask? Because she asked him to marry her and I can’t stand that shit in real life or in books. Cause why y’all heffas be proposing to a man🤬.
One night only in Vegas as husband and wife and all that it entails is what’s she’s offering. It’s perfect night for both of them. Then the sun comes up and Asher shows his entire ass. Thier best friends are married so they can’t really avoid each other forever but they keep thier distance afterwards. Until Risa, as he calls her, needs a room mate and he pushes his way into her home.
Even thought they can’t stand each other the way that they fall into an easy rhythm while cohabiting is organic even if the sex may or may not complicate things. He takes care of her,protects her,provides for her. She comforts him, cares for him, and listens to him. Life is hitting hard for both of them and they stand by each other through it all. Nothing comes between them , not Zion , not Franny,. They created a life together with out even realizing it. So once Asher realizes that his heart belongs to Risa Belle he waste no time in claiming her. The best part is that nothing really changes after he does but thier title and the end of that silly bet. They have a romance between them that had been brewing under all that negative energy and violence. The banter between the two is hilarious. The chaos of thier “foreplay” is enticing. They have nasty sex, the good kind. I recommend this book if you like a organic romance that has a happily ever after.
The only question I have is why didn’t we get a real description of Ash and Risa other than they both have curly hair?
November 21, 2022
“Again, Risa. Louder,” he grits out. “I’m worthy!” “Don’t you ever forget that shit.”
This book took me by surprise. I love the roller coaster of emotions I experienced in A Worthy Love.
Emotions are giving!!!
I annoy myself because sometimes, like right now, I want more. But most of the time I’m guarding myself out of fear of getting hurt.
It is truly an experience because your heart breaks and mends for Asher and Marisa.
Reading this is alluring. The humorous bantering, quick-witted comeback, hot scenes, and funny-as-hell group conversations made this book undeniably a great read.
This book took me by surprise. I love the roller coaster of emotions I experienced in A Worthy Love.
Emotions are giving!!!
I annoy myself because sometimes, like right now, I want more. But most of the time I’m guarding myself out of fear of getting hurt.
It is truly an experience because your heart breaks and mends for Asher and Marisa.
Reading this is alluring. The humorous bantering, quick-witted comeback, hot scenes, and funny-as-hell group conversations made this book undeniably a great read.
May 2, 2024
🥺
Ah, I loved this book a lot. I did the audiobook and followed along with the ebook. It was really heartwarming. I totally understand Marisa’s character and I loved Asher for her. Their banter, chemistry, and the way they became each other’s safe space was intentional. I laughed quite a few times throughout the book as well, especially the scene when Marisa and Natalie were drinking at the bar - I was hollering literally. 🤣Such a great ending to the rise & fall series.
Ah, I loved this book a lot. I did the audiobook and followed along with the ebook. It was really heartwarming. I totally understand Marisa’s character and I loved Asher for her. Their banter, chemistry, and the way they became each other’s safe space was intentional. I laughed quite a few times throughout the book as well, especially the scene when Marisa and Natalie were drinking at the bar - I was hollering literally. 🤣Such a great ending to the rise & fall series.
December 27, 2024
This started fun, I liked the banter and I didn't mind the side activities Marissa and Asher both had going on while they were doing their own thing. They're both adults and I don't judge. For some reason I liked them better before they got together. Story was wayyyy longer than it needed to be and dragged after this point. Marissa's character seemed different too. I enjoyed it but it didn't need to be anywhere near 500 pages
December 18, 2024
Out of the three books, this one was by far the most enjoyable. Ash is a breath of fresh air. While he may not want commitment, he’s a natural nurturer, always attentive to the small details despite carrying his own tragic and tense past. Marisa is fun, open, and yearning for more in her love life, which is completely understandable. She had to grow up quickly, stepping into the role of provider for her family rather than being able to enjoy her youth as a sister and daughter. Now as an adult, she continues to care for others, but with Ash, she can finally let her guard down. The man she least expected to break through her walls. The man who she once hit in the head with a remote and shared a spontaneous, unforgettable night with becomes the one who changes her life forever. And trust me, it took a lot of work to get there for both of them.
This book is a beautiful mix of laughter, trauma, understanding, healing, and the unexpected way love can bloom.
As for the men, my ranking is: Asher, Acyn, Kyrell.
This book is a beautiful mix of laughter, trauma, understanding, healing, and the unexpected way love can bloom.
As for the men, my ranking is: Asher, Acyn, Kyrell.
September 9, 2024
4.5 🤍 I’m a fan of the entire series!! I’m typically not a fan of “the wild girl” in friend groups lol but I absolutely loved the layers of Marisa’s story. Her character goes through so much! My girl deserves it all! The only reason it’s not 5 stars for me is because I felt like the book was longer than it needed to be.
January 11, 2025
The book featured some great quotes and had plenty of ups and downs to keep the plot moving. However, it felt overly long and dragged in parts, which made it a bit of a challenge to stay engaged. I also felt the author struggled to authentically capture the male voice. That said, the portrayal of healthy love across various relationships was a highlight, and it kept me interested in seeing how things would unfold for the two main characters.
June 21, 2024
i really wanted to love this book and after seeing all the high ratings i was so hyped for it but oof this was not it.
first off, why was this literally 500+ pages on my phone? i feel like so much of it was filler and nothing was really happening. it got to the point where i got so bored that i had to skip everyone's scenes except marisa and asher because i was close to a dnf. it could have been way shorter and better quality but instead it dragged on. i was going to give it a 2/3 star rating but after the long ass ordeal i am sticking with 1 star.
marisa and asher were just.. plain. i was so excited to read about poc characters in a love story because most mainstream books don't include them, which is why i think i practically finished it before deciding i didn't like it. they had some interesting conversations but i just felt like it was so dull. maybe because they got together so fast at the start and then cut each other off and then went back and forth for months, idk.
i did like marisa and asher as separate characters but again their storylines were too repetitive and boring. marisa constantly talked about or visited her yoga studio and asher was literally a robot he said the same things every chapter to the point where it seemed so ingenuine and cringe. asher said wierd cringe things and went overkill a lot of time so i cannot support the man.
i just didn't love the romance at all. and both of them were literally with other people too. the point where i was like absolutely not ✨ was when marisa literally got with zion and then two minutes later she gets with asher and he's cool with it. like PLS DON'T GIVE ME THE ICK.
also plot... where? asher and his mum, marisa and reese, yoga, marisa and her mum were the only plots of the book. even the love story didn't feel like it was developing because it was established so early on and after that was all the relationship building and bonding. it was just genuinely boring as heck and i couldn't bring myself to read it properly.
boring is the best way i can describe it. i hate it because i spent so much time trying to like it and ended up just wishing i dnf'd.
1 star for good quality of writing and some cute scenes. i wanted to read the other couples but now i cba.
first off, why was this literally 500+ pages on my phone? i feel like so much of it was filler and nothing was really happening. it got to the point where i got so bored that i had to skip everyone's scenes except marisa and asher because i was close to a dnf. it could have been way shorter and better quality but instead it dragged on. i was going to give it a 2/3 star rating but after the long ass ordeal i am sticking with 1 star.
marisa and asher were just.. plain. i was so excited to read about poc characters in a love story because most mainstream books don't include them, which is why i think i practically finished it before deciding i didn't like it. they had some interesting conversations but i just felt like it was so dull. maybe because they got together so fast at the start and then cut each other off and then went back and forth for months, idk.
i did like marisa and asher as separate characters but again their storylines were too repetitive and boring. marisa constantly talked about or visited her yoga studio and asher was literally a robot he said the same things every chapter to the point where it seemed so ingenuine and cringe. asher said wierd cringe things and went overkill a lot of time so i cannot support the man.
i just didn't love the romance at all. and both of them were literally with other people too. the point where i was like absolutely not ✨ was when marisa literally got with zion and then two minutes later she gets with asher and he's cool with it. like PLS DON'T GIVE ME THE ICK.
also plot... where? asher and his mum, marisa and reese, yoga, marisa and her mum were the only plots of the book. even the love story didn't feel like it was developing because it was established so early on and after that was all the relationship building and bonding. it was just genuinely boring as heck and i couldn't bring myself to read it properly.
boring is the best way i can describe it. i hate it because i spent so much time trying to like it and ended up just wishing i dnf'd.
1 star for good quality of writing and some cute scenes. i wanted to read the other couples but now i cba.
December 8, 2022
Straight up Swoon Worthy romance
4.5⭐️…..I’m not gonna lie. When I started reading this story, I struggled a bit with the pacing at the beginning. The prologue had me intrigued and the first few chapters were slow. I was thinking that this would end up in the DNF pile but I continued on and I’m soooooo glad I did!!! A Worthy Love was an absolutely amazing read!
It’s definitely a slow burn but it gives you all the feels. The character development was perfection. The progression of their relationship was believable. Asher and Marisa were both equally amazing lead characters. Both similar in so many ways and their banter and wittiness towards each other was everything! This couple was a load of fun! There is nothing like two people that bring fun, humor and a healthy dose sarcasm in a relationship.
This story does deal with some heavy subject matters, so please be aware of trigger warnings.
Bravo to A.E. Valdez for handling topics such as abortion with such care and grace.
Asher is definitely a new book bae of mine. There is nothing like a fine man that can make a lady laugh and also speak life into her *swoon* . I loved how he never judged her decisions and allowed her the space to figure her shit out while also being her soft place to fall.
Marisa was off the chain! She was beauty and brains with a huge sense of humor. She was fierce and successful. I loved her sense of self awareness. She was definitely my female book bae 🤣 She was so solid in her support of Asher.
I’m like obsessed with two characters yall! They both had a healthy dose of trauma and pain that you will learn about but you’d never know that by the way they carried themselves and treated others.
This book was easily a 5 star read, but I took a half star away due to the pacing at times and I also felt like the book could have been condensed a bit. It was a 500 page read but could have been a bit shorter.
Overall superb character development! Amazing storytelling and writing!
I highly highly recommend this book!!
4.5⭐️…..I’m not gonna lie. When I started reading this story, I struggled a bit with the pacing at the beginning. The prologue had me intrigued and the first few chapters were slow. I was thinking that this would end up in the DNF pile but I continued on and I’m soooooo glad I did!!! A Worthy Love was an absolutely amazing read!
It’s definitely a slow burn but it gives you all the feels. The character development was perfection. The progression of their relationship was believable. Asher and Marisa were both equally amazing lead characters. Both similar in so many ways and their banter and wittiness towards each other was everything! This couple was a load of fun! There is nothing like two people that bring fun, humor and a healthy dose sarcasm in a relationship.
This story does deal with some heavy subject matters, so please be aware of trigger warnings.
Bravo to A.E. Valdez for handling topics such as abortion with such care and grace.
Asher is definitely a new book bae of mine. There is nothing like a fine man that can make a lady laugh and also speak life into her *swoon* . I loved how he never judged her decisions and allowed her the space to figure her shit out while also being her soft place to fall.
Marisa was off the chain! She was beauty and brains with a huge sense of humor. She was fierce and successful. I loved her sense of self awareness. She was definitely my female book bae 🤣 She was so solid in her support of Asher.
I’m like obsessed with two characters yall! They both had a healthy dose of trauma and pain that you will learn about but you’d never know that by the way they carried themselves and treated others.
This book was easily a 5 star read, but I took a half star away due to the pacing at times and I also felt like the book could have been condensed a bit. It was a 500 page read but could have been a bit shorter.
Overall superb character development! Amazing storytelling and writing!
I highly highly recommend this book!!
September 23, 2023
unpopular opinion
The beginning of the book was fun and carefree even with their issues outside of their situation… the characters were fun and it was a unique story.. but once they fell for each other it got a bit corny… don’t get me wrong I love love.. and romance.. but to read “I love you” or “I f’n love you” over and over again got a bit repetitive… and some of the scenes were a bit unrealistic.. for me at least.. I know it’s fiction.. but it’s a me thing.. I’ve read other books by this author and loved them and I will continue to read her books.. this one just wasnt for me..
The beginning of the book was fun and carefree even with their issues outside of their situation… the characters were fun and it was a unique story.. but once they fell for each other it got a bit corny… don’t get me wrong I love love.. and romance.. but to read “I love you” or “I f’n love you” over and over again got a bit repetitive… and some of the scenes were a bit unrealistic.. for me at least.. I know it’s fiction.. but it’s a me thing.. I’ve read other books by this author and loved them and I will continue to read her books.. this one just wasnt for me..
June 23, 2023
4.5 starsssss 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
A.E. VALDEZ NEVER MISSES !!!
Marisa & Asher’s story was everything & I want moreeee. The way this man took care of her during her darkest time THATS A BLACK KING RIGHT THERE.
That whole Reese situation just GOMFN because BFFR !! If this book wasn’t already hella long I would have loved to see Asher and his moms relationship blossom more. I love how Valdez shed light on a woman not wanting kids. I FEEL THAT REAL BAD. I hope she continues all these characters in the future atp ACE KYRELL & ASHER alll my man my man my man. 🚂🤭
A.E. VALDEZ NEVER MISSES !!!
Marisa & Asher’s story was everything & I want moreeee. The way this man took care of her during her darkest time THATS A BLACK KING RIGHT THERE.
That whole Reese situation just GOMFN because BFFR !! If this book wasn’t already hella long I would have loved to see Asher and his moms relationship blossom more. I love how Valdez shed light on a woman not wanting kids. I FEEL THAT REAL BAD. I hope she continues all these characters in the future atp ACE KYRELL & ASHER alll my man my man my man. 🚂🤭
July 31, 2023
I loved the banter between Asher and Marissa but their story draggggggggggggggggeeeeeeeeeeddddddd on for too long. It could have been short and sweet, what a missed opportunity.
November 17, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another IG recommended read for the WIN! So going into this completely blind- I didn’t realize until I had begun; this is a part of a series. Oops!
Either way, I had to savor this story, it was so much more than I expected. Honestly, for reasons unknown- I was expecting this to be a surface level read. Maybe with a few “tough issues” glossed over and thats it. Oh how wrong was I?!
The author tackled some serious topics and handled them quite well. It didn’t feel like anything was glossed over or placed in a easy fix basket. The pacing of this story was perfect, making the unfolding of the relationship so realistic.
But those moments when Ash and/ or Risa were dealing with the tougher moments… whew! My heart broke for both of them; the pain was palpable. Which IMO is a testament the author’s pen!
Now I have to go back and start the series at the beginning lol. What a great problem to have😂
Another IG recommended read for the WIN! So going into this completely blind- I didn’t realize until I had begun; this is a part of a series. Oops!
Either way, I had to savor this story, it was so much more than I expected. Honestly, for reasons unknown- I was expecting this to be a surface level read. Maybe with a few “tough issues” glossed over and thats it. Oh how wrong was I?!
The author tackled some serious topics and handled them quite well. It didn’t feel like anything was glossed over or placed in a easy fix basket. The pacing of this story was perfect, making the unfolding of the relationship so realistic.
But those moments when Ash and/ or Risa were dealing with the tougher moments… whew! My heart broke for both of them; the pain was palpable. Which IMO is a testament the author’s pen!
Now I have to go back and start the series at the beginning lol. What a great problem to have😂
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