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The Intruder

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“Went from being cozy to living crazy. From you don’t know me to waiting baby …”—Brent Faiyaz

There are quite a few dirty deeds Stony Thorns is ashamed of committing, but prying into peoples’ business for a living isn’t one of them. Working as a paparazzi in Silk Hills allows Stony to feed her love for photography and avoid a traditional nine-to-five. Her profession has also acted as a hindrance to her love life, though that hasn’t swayed her career path. All seems well in Stony’s world until she finds herself in a life-changing predicament that challenges her selfish ways. Placed in a bind, Stony uses her resources and goes on a mission to capture an image that’s front-page worthy. Little does she know, the bag she’s attempting to secure may have the potential to blow up in her face.

O’Cyrus Dellinger lives his life without regrets and is willing to fight anybody who has a problem with it. After experiencing hardships as a child, swing first and deal with the consequences later became a morning affirmation he swears by. Though unconventional, O’Cyrus’s aggressive nature has been the driving force to a prosperous boxing career. Unfortunately, his achievements aren’t enough to keep the bullheaded fighter from traveling to the underground regardless of the consequences. That all has the potential to change when a threat to O’Cyrus’s livelihood leaves him less options than he’s used to and at the mercy of someone he considers an enemy.

In most cases, the paparazzi is a celebrity’s worst nightmare. However, when forced to work together, can a trespasser become a lifeline?

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Published March 19, 2024

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Tucora Monique

32 books176 followers

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5 stars
212 (56%)
4 stars
106 (28%)
3 stars
51 (13%)
2 stars
3 (<1%)
1 star
1 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
1,075 reviews8 followers
December 16, 2023
The intruder

I enjoyed this book from beginning to end. O’cyrus and Stony were cute together and their friendship showed promise until someone decided to run their mouth about who Stony really was and I hated how that fractured their connection some. They went from starting to be open with each other to back being super guarded and responding to each other in a way that would hurt the other person first. These two had different childhoods but held some of the same trauma and trust issues, which I think helped them bond in the beginning. I loved that even though O’cyrus was not happy with what he learned about Stony, as much as he wanted to ignore his growing feelings for her, he couldn’t nod it showed in his actions. Stony was moving from a place of trying not to be hurt again once get secret was revealed but I’m glad she finally started to pay more attention to his actions. I do wish they would have had a more open and honest conversation once everything was revealed, but when you’re operating from a place of protecting your heart, you don’t always do the things you should, but even with some discord between these two, they couldn’t stay away from each other and their chemistry and connection couldn’t be ignored. I’m glad they were able to get there happily ever after because they both deserved it.
Profile Image for Nay .
444 reviews
December 19, 2023
I enjoyed reading about Stony and O’Cyrus. However I don’t understand how Stony was dealing with Grant for years but never once thought to look him up to after the fact of what happened. Stony and O’ Cyrus cross paths after both having to take anger management classes. They have an instant bond. Also ole girl who lied on O’Cyrus was never dealt with nor was anything mentioned after the phone call. She should have been sued for defamation. This book is an overall 3.5
Profile Image for Selena Nicole.
241 reviews12 followers
March 25, 2024
3.5⭐️

This was overall a good story but I found myself having questions once finished reading.

Due to its somewhat somber tone I was often waiting for the other shoe to drop. The couple definitely had good moments and I would have liked to see more of those 1:1 interactions (ex dinners, outing) while things were relatively good without the second guessing their decisions.
Profile Image for Lily Kennedy.
211 reviews
October 8, 2025
This book was so good! It was my first time reading any books from this author, and I enjoyed every bit of it.

I was left wanting more. It was so fast paced. Every snarky remark, the vulnerability along with the harshness, everything just meshed so well.

This was a close acquaintance turned semi-enemy turned fake dating turned friend and lover.

Great book!
1,091 reviews1 follower
July 8, 2024
3.5 stars.

I liked this book a lot. I wish it were longer to develop the relationship out more. Stony, the FMC, is a paparazzi. She meets boxing champion O'Cyrus at a meeting and they develop a friendship. He doesn't know she's a pap, which leads to some mistrust once discovered. At this point, I was sure he would kick her to the curb but the book went in a different direction. The author kind of glossed over the Champ would still want her around. It didn't make sense to me because there were thousands of people available for the job. The story evolves into an unexpected relationship of convenience with a twist.

I loved the banter between the couple and wanted more. The relationship seemed to jump again from being rocky to super solid to the epilouge with a HEA. I wish there was more on paper development of their relationship.
Profile Image for Salene Whyte (thee_book_connoisseur_).
419 reviews4 followers
December 21, 2024
The Eshu Gang

Tucora Monique delivers a compelling and sweet romance with The Intruder, a novel that blends the worlds of fame, paparazzi, and unexpected love in a way that feels both exhilarating and heartwarming. The chemistry between the leads, Stony Thorns and O’Cyrus Dellinger, is undeniable and drives this fast-paced story forward.

Stony, a paparazzi who thrives in the chaos of Silk Hills, is a character who is both relatable and frustrating at times. She’s unapologetically selfish, driven by her love for photography and the thrill of the chase, yet her journey is more than just about capturing that perfect shot. Stony’s life takes a turn when a seemingly routine assignment ends up in a predicament that forces her to rethink her priorities. This twist not only challenges her career but also her heart, especially when it leads her to O’Cyrus—a man who couldn’t be more different from her in temperament and outlook.

O’Cyrus, on the other hand, is everything you want in a hero. He’s a boxer with a rough exterior and a past filled with hardship that’s made him wary of trusting others. His aggressive nature and no-nonsense attitude make him an intriguing character, but it’s his vulnerability that emerges as the story unfolds. Watching him soften, especially when it comes to Stony, makes for some truly tender moments.

What makes their romance so engaging is the stark contrast between them. Stony’s initial deception—her motive being tied to her profession—creates a tension that’s palpable. But as she gets to know O’Cyrus, it’s clear that there’s more at play than either of them expected. O’Cyrus, while tough on the outside, proves to be the perfect counterpart to Stony’s guarded heart. His quiet support, especially when Stony is at her most frustrating, shows a depth of character that is both touching and admirable.

The plot, while straightforward, has its ups and downs. The dynamics of their relationship evolve naturally, even if I would’ve liked to see more of their bond develop in the aftermath. A deeper exploration of their future—perhaps seeing Stony meet O’Cyrus’s family or the couple learning to navigate life together—would have added even more depth to their love story. But even without this, the story still packs an emotional punch, especially with the ending that left me with a warm, contented feeling.

Monique’s writing is engaging, with just the right amount of tension, passion, and humor. The side characters, particularly the “Eshu men,” add to the allure, and I’m definitely looking forward to seeing more of them in future books.

Overall, The Intruder is a delightful read. It’s a story about love that transcends first impressions, trust that’s built over time, and the kind of connection that changes you. I can’t wait to see where Tucora Monique takes us next!
Profile Image for Crimson.
610 reviews4 followers
April 27, 2025
Good read

This was a really good read. I'm a firm believer that everything happens for a reason. Y'all just read the damn book.
Profile Image for lexi.
330 reviews5 followers
November 1, 2025
rating: ★★★☆☆
spice check: 🌶︎🌶︎🌶︎🌶︎
⚠️ miscarriage trigger warning.


a good friends-to-lovers story with a bit of emotional depth.
stony, a paparazzi photographer, makes a living off getting the shot — even if it means being in places she shouldn’t. her world collides with o’cyrus, a boxer with a bad-boy reputation and an even worse temper, when she’s tasked with helping him clean up his image. what starts as a contractual, fake-it-for-the-public setup slowly turns into genuine chemistry and unexpected feelings.
their banter was so cute, and watching their friendship bloom into something deeper gave the story a soft balance against both of their tough exteriors. i really liked the dynamic between o’cyrus and his family — it gave his character a layer of heart beneath the chaos.
what left me puzzled was the loose end around the woman who falsely accused cy — it felt like a thread that needed more closure. and since stony’s whole job revolves around digging up information, it surprised me she didn’t do more background checking before everything went left with grant.
still, i loved their connection, the humor, and how tucora blended passion with realism. the spice matched the tone — intense, but not overpowering — and the story wrapped up with just enough emotion to linger.

💭 “i’m not really sure what you think you know, but O’Cyrus isn’t crazy; he’s passionate. if he loves you, he’ll protect you. if he doesn’t, he’ll make you feel like you don’t exist. for some reason, people can’t take that and choose to poke the bear.”
Profile Image for TrueBookJunkie.
640 reviews16 followers
January 4, 2024
“Right. Your scary ass better step into your purpose before you look up twenty years from now and find yourself still trying to find yourself.”

I had to start this review with this quote because babbby it hit me deep and I was only 6% into the book! I knew then that Tucora Monique was gearing up to give me something special.
Stony is my girl and Champ is definitely bae. These two together were explosive. I genuinely loved everything about this book. It was so intriguing to see these two face battle after battle and remain standing.
While reading this book, I felt raw and seen. Kicking off a new year with this type of soul-snatching read was everything. The pain, fear, and lack of trust this couple experienced was turned into understanding, forgiveness, and love. Tucora Monique girrrrl you did your thing with this book!
I’m not sure what else this author has up her sleeve but if this is how she’s coming I need to prepare myself 😆 I took so much from this book with my flaws on full display and all yet I can’t be mad for a second. I laughed, ugly cried, gasped while clutching my pearls and I’m still wanting more!
74 reviews3 followers
September 2, 2024
Loved It!

I had to run it back once I saw on IG that O'Cyrus and Stony had a book and sis when I tell you it was just as good as Say You'll Ride and Take Her to Church. I can't wait until the next release because it's something about these Eshu men.
O'Cyrus was definitely that guy. Just a big old mean teddy bear that needed to be tamed and baby Stony was just the girl for the job but miss girl was too wrapped up in hers but O'Cyrus was just the man to change all that and I love that for both of them. There were moments where Stony frustrated the hell out of me but seeing the way O'Cyrus stood ten toes behind her and still handles her with Grace even after the way she acted sometimes just did it for me. I don't want to spoil anything but that ending just warmed my heart.
Profile Image for Jerrica (Mrsmar10Reads) Martin .
1,660 reviews10 followers
April 22, 2025
O'Cyrus and Stony

Stony was a lil firecracker! She gave just as good as she could get except when it came to The Champ. These two connected immediately, which was rare for them both. Learning what Stony did made O'Cyrus feel some type of way. I didn't think she had a plan...until the pictures were revealed. At least she hadn't shopped them??? That soured their relationship but a mutually beneficial agreement has them orbiting one another too often. These too were a couple that will stick with me for a while. While the chemistry was real, their traumas were so similar that they understood one another in a way most couldn't. Happy Reading Y'all!💋

I need all of the Sons of Eshu books to be labeled as such because I'm hunting through all Tucora's books to find them. I read them all out of order and I may have to spin the block.
Profile Image for NwabiReads.
214 reviews1 follower
March 8, 2025
Cute

This was a good book that started off well. We got well rounded characters, who had amazing chemistry, also this was a story that was kind of different. Who knew being in the paps would find you in such a compromising position you are kind of forced to fake date someone you actually wanted and who wanted you in return. Very cute!

I did however have issues with pacing, it started well yet from the 50% point and everything seemed kind of rushed. Also there was use of a word that is offensive to little people. Lastly the euphemisms used for the Kitty cat threw me off I am still looking forward to the rest of the books.
Profile Image for Monique.
447 reviews20 followers
April 10, 2025
The author did a great job with these characters. They were relatable & enjoyable while also still being incredibly flawed. The story had great pacing as well. I loved their blossoming friendship and hated to see them fall apart before they even got started. However, I enjoyed watching them find their way to each other despite both being somewhat guarded due to their traumas and upbringings. I do wish we saw a little more of how his image was rehabbed because of the arrangement since that was a major plot point. But it was otherwise enjoyable.

A trigger warning would have been nice because it got really sad real fast from out of left fired at the 90% mark😢
438 reviews5 followers
December 29, 2023
those darn paparazzi

This was a good read. Stony and O’Cyrus weren’t as complicated as I thought they’d be. Their chemistry was obvious and it was cute watching their love blossom. Stony may have been a little deceitful in the beginning, but you could tell she felt something for O’Cyrus. He wasn’t as closed off either after meeting g her. However, I would’ve liked to see their relationship grown once the dust settled rather than get that small glimpse at the end. For instance, her meeting his family or them moving in and learning each other more. Still it was worth it.
Profile Image for Rebecca.
68 reviews2 followers
December 16, 2023
Amazing

In my opinion this was really good. Stony and O'Cyrus meet at anger management class. They friendship slowly transforms into more. They agree to a fake dating scheme to help clean up O'Cyrus public image. I enjoyed getting to experience them falling for each other. The author did a good job with the flow of this story. I was hooked from the first chapter. I look forward to finding more work by this author.
Profile Image for Crystal Luckey.
752 reviews31 followers
March 1, 2025
A beauty and a beast...

Stony and O'Cyrus met due to both of their anger issues. What they didn't expect is to fall into a contract that would change their lives forever. I enjoyed seeing these two fight their feelings and fall for each other. I really love how their story was written and couldn't get enough of these two. I glad I'm back in Tucora space, and this book has shown me why I always love her writing. On to the next son of eshu book!!!!
36 reviews
May 17, 2025
Match Made in Heaven!!!!

This was one.of many stories connected to each other. The Sons of Eshu is a good series, the way she connects them is amazing. So far.I. have read most of them,and have not been disappointed. Tucora Monique is a new.author for me. I plan to read everything she wrote. She has become one of my favorites.!!!! So far I have read about most of the ladies in the.series and will.continue to do so!!!!
Profile Image for Mya Mya.
Author 51 books235 followers
December 17, 2023
Beautiful love story 🔥

From the very first page I was hooked. The love, the pain, the passion, and the beauty of O'Cyrus and Stony was present all through these pages. I was on the edge of my seat for a lot of this book because Tucora effortlessly weaved together the good and the bad of both characters. Bravo! 🙌🏾
145 reviews3 followers
December 23, 2023
Wasn’t that much convincing for me the promo and the synopsis caught my attention. You have a grumpy celebrity boxer hero and a paparazzi heroine. I was very intrigued and how their worlds collided super interesting. Then the fake dating both being stubborn a** people I was thoroughly entertained. Im glad they finally got it together and now I want backstory on Kendrick.
Profile Image for Micaiah.
Author 4 books19 followers
January 2, 2024
It’s a winner

I loved OCyrus and Stony. Their quick wit and sarcastic humor was everything I needed. They met in an unconventional way and morphed into something beautiful. Grant was the ultimate loser, I felt Stony’s pain being caught up. So, glad she was able to upgrade in all areas of her life! We all need a Champ in our lives!
Profile Image for Shaunrick McGee.
263 reviews4 followers
January 22, 2024
I liked the story line and the complexities of the characters but the writing lacked smooth transitions. I appreciated characters with different backgrounds and occupations. The male character was able to exude BDE without being a total jackass or a reformed dope boy.

Nonetheless, I would recommend this book.
Profile Image for Goddess’ Smut Library &#x1fa77;.
494 reviews24 followers
July 11, 2025
I really enjoyed the chemistry between the two main characters, and I would like to say that I agree with another review that the ending kind of left you wanting more from the couple, but we did get a lot during the story. The MMC was a gentle giant and the FMC was semi-jaded and pessimistic. I like that they got a happy ending too.
383 reviews1 follower
December 18, 2023
Spice, sweet, sexy, sincere

TM consistently delivers great stories with characters that get you invested with their chemistry, sass, strength, sex appeal and more. O’Cyrus and Stormy delivered and I rooted for them to find their way! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Ayanna First of BourbonStreetBookers.
495 reviews21 followers
December 28, 2023
Beastly

Yassssss!! Loved it! Tucora Monique is an absolutely amazing author who pens Black Love with so much passion and uniqueness. It gives hope to a new face every time! This read was just breathtaking! Highly Recommended! 💚💛💜🥳🎊
394 reviews4 followers
January 30, 2024
Loved it!

Page Turner! This book is well written it flows well. Stony & O'Cyrus both had issues from their childhood that hardened their hearts but they both kept working on themselves and each other until their hearts melted and they fell in love.
827 reviews2 followers
February 6, 2024
trauma

When I first started I didn’t know what to expect but the chemistry between the two kept me coming back until I was hooked. Childhood trauma has a way of impacting us when we least expect it but having someone to love you through is priceless.
262 reviews4 followers
April 25, 2024
This could have been okay

This story had potential, but didn't follow through. Stony irked me all the way through, and the ending was super rushed. I didn't care for this story at all.
143 reviews
May 24, 2024
Intruders to Lovers

I liked Stony’s spicy personality and her & O’Cyrus’s chemistry & banter but in certain parts of the book, it felt like pieces of the plot were missing. Overall, it was a nice read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews

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