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Love Set Me Free
I was never supposed to love Kydrick, but his arrest changed everything.
Me, Kydrick, and my ex best friend, Janelle, grew up together. We did everything together, until high school changed everything. They became a couple, and I hid the feelings that had always lingered.
It stayed like that for five grueling years, until our freshman year of college. A party changed the course of all our lives. Actually… a girl did. Annie Taylor. One false accusation from her and the dean’s son, and Kydrick’s future was gone in the blink of an eye.
Kydrick is now behind bars for a crime he didn’t commit. And how do I know? Because I was with him when said crime supposedly happened.
Janelle swore she’d stand by him.
She didn’t.
I did.
For twelve years, I fought for his freedom. I screamed the truth from the rooftops and studied law, vowing to get him out. And when that day finally came, the man who came out of those prison walls wasn’t the same. He’s cold. Menacing. He doesn’t know how to let love in. Too many people have abandoned him. Too many people have let him down.
The only thing I can do now is pray the shackles of his past don’t hold him back from true freedom… and true love.
Me, Kydrick, and my ex best friend, Janelle, grew up together. We did everything together, until high school changed everything. They became a couple, and I hid the feelings that had always lingered.
It stayed like that for five grueling years, until our freshman year of college. A party changed the course of all our lives. Actually… a girl did. Annie Taylor. One false accusation from her and the dean’s son, and Kydrick’s future was gone in the blink of an eye.
Kydrick is now behind bars for a crime he didn’t commit. And how do I know? Because I was with him when said crime supposedly happened.
Janelle swore she’d stand by him.
She didn’t.
I did.
For twelve years, I fought for his freedom. I screamed the truth from the rooftops and studied law, vowing to get him out. And when that day finally came, the man who came out of those prison walls wasn’t the same. He’s cold. Menacing. He doesn’t know how to let love in. Too many people have abandoned him. Too many people have let him down.
The only thing I can do now is pray the shackles of his past don’t hold him back from true freedom… and true love.
177 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 20, 2025
209 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
April 29, 2025
This book honestly read like a lowkey horror story for me, I'm sorry, but Paisley was insufferable. Delusional, inconsiderate, and chaotic, to say the least.
We have a man who was wrongfully accused and convicted, serving twelve years for a crime he didn’t commit. Meanwhile, his so-called “best friend” is pressed like a little Black girl’s hair on Easter Sunday. She becomes a lawyer, abandoning her dream of becoming a jewelry designer, all to get him exonerated. And yes, she succeeds. But then, in her marble sized brain, she feels entitled to him now, as if her years-long crush means they’re destined to be together.
Mind you this man just got out of prison. He was sentenced as a college freshman, lost both of his parents while inside, and is clearly traumatized, trying to get reacquainted with the real world. But we’re supposed to believe this is a beautiful, heartwarming tale of long-lost love finally fulfilled? It didn’t land that way for me. Paisley’s expectations were based on a crush she never communicated, and now that he’s free, she expects romance in return?
Yes, it all works out in the end, but let’s be real Kydrick needed therapy, possibly medication, and definitely better friends. Also, what was the point of the boss subplot? If his behavior was so inappropriate, why wasn’t she documenting it? For a lawyer, she was distressingly naive and irrational when it came to this man. That part really didn’t sit well with me.
I appreciate what the author was trying to do with this story, and I know many readers found it romantic and redemptive. But for me, it missed the mark. I say this with all due respect: this book just wasn’t for me.
We have a man who was wrongfully accused and convicted, serving twelve years for a crime he didn’t commit. Meanwhile, his so-called “best friend” is pressed like a little Black girl’s hair on Easter Sunday. She becomes a lawyer, abandoning her dream of becoming a jewelry designer, all to get him exonerated. And yes, she succeeds. But then, in her marble sized brain, she feels entitled to him now, as if her years-long crush means they’re destined to be together.
Mind you this man just got out of prison. He was sentenced as a college freshman, lost both of his parents while inside, and is clearly traumatized, trying to get reacquainted with the real world. But we’re supposed to believe this is a beautiful, heartwarming tale of long-lost love finally fulfilled? It didn’t land that way for me. Paisley’s expectations were based on a crush she never communicated, and now that he’s free, she expects romance in return?
Yes, it all works out in the end, but let’s be real Kydrick needed therapy, possibly medication, and definitely better friends. Also, what was the point of the boss subplot? If his behavior was so inappropriate, why wasn’t she documenting it? For a lawyer, she was distressingly naive and irrational when it came to this man. That part really didn’t sit well with me.
I appreciate what the author was trying to do with this story, and I know many readers found it romantic and redemptive. But for me, it missed the mark. I say this with all due respect: this book just wasn’t for me.
April 28, 2025
Kydrick is MY Guy!!!!
The way I took this read down! First let’s address how the read address issues that still occur today! Falsely accused are still within the system! Some cleared and some are still fighting! The way this read addresses that was chef kiss to me!
Let chat about it! Relationship regardless of type are for a reason, season or life time! Not everyone has the heart, motivation or time to stand by someone that’s down for something they didn’t do! Well that’s what happened in this read between best friends! Still having a friendship with someone since the age of 4 is a long time but the parents/family plays a part. All started with swimming lessons-lol . Most of the time everyone grows apart but not the case for Kydrick & Paisley! It’s started with 3 but ended with only 2.
Janielle: she was part of the trio and one of age and in college she started dating Kydrick until that day everyone life changed! My girl had been bothered from the beginning with the closeness of Kyd and Paisley, however, never spoke up! Like she knows or had a feeling of the way Paisley felt about Kydrick but still moved forward with him! She already felt some way but never communicated about it. Like they say - closed mouth don’t get feed -🤣! However, when he needed her the most, she was not there. Not only that she cheated and turned her back on both of her best friends when they needed her the most! Ole girl had me feeling someway about her at the beginning until she mad it right and finally did what should’ve been done years ago - communicate🫣!
Paisley, the flower of the crew! She was the more emotional one, had her goal and ready to live life. My girl is the definition of a true friend, but she too had me a little upset with her. Like girl, no one will know anything if you don’t speak up! However, my girl rocked hard for Kyd and stood by his side through it all! I mean putting her life on hold and changing her career to law to help him. During this process the bond that she and Janelle had was no long because my girl felt betrayed, but to me it was all lack of communication! When then gears switched between Kyd and Paisley and feelings got involve, things start to shift. When I say Paisley was stubborn, she was just that and when she wants someone or something that’s what she wants! Until she can get it, to her the world ended - lol! Paisley reminds me of myself with putting everyone before herself and if not careful it can bring you down and boy did it get her! What I will say, when she finally was about to regroup and finally see what everyone was telling her and live for self, she was about to regroup and live with self! Oh boy did it all work out for her in the long run.
Kydrick, him just got the short end of the stick by trying to help someone that was in danger! My guy lost 12 years of his life for something he didn’t do! Not only that he lost his father while down- 😢! That had me teary eyed as I can only imagine! What he didn’t lose was one of his best friends - Paisley! This young man told and begged her to live her life and not do the time with him, but babygirl wasn’t having it! The thing love will have you doing - 🥰. Speaking of love! Let me say how I respected Kyd and all he said to Paisley regarding his feelings and her! The way he stood on business behind it was everything to me! Like he needed to get himself together before pursuing anything with her! As hard as it may have been, it had to be done! Not only that being that he dated and loved Janelle, he needed to make sure that was done with before anything could happen! Oh but when it was did, he didn’t and wasn’t letting up off her!
Cyd has yet to disappoint when it comes to her work and look forward toto what’s in store next!
The way I took this read down! First let’s address how the read address issues that still occur today! Falsely accused are still within the system! Some cleared and some are still fighting! The way this read addresses that was chef kiss to me!
Let chat about it! Relationship regardless of type are for a reason, season or life time! Not everyone has the heart, motivation or time to stand by someone that’s down for something they didn’t do! Well that’s what happened in this read between best friends! Still having a friendship with someone since the age of 4 is a long time but the parents/family plays a part. All started with swimming lessons-lol . Most of the time everyone grows apart but not the case for Kydrick & Paisley! It’s started with 3 but ended with only 2.
Janielle: she was part of the trio and one of age and in college she started dating Kydrick until that day everyone life changed! My girl had been bothered from the beginning with the closeness of Kyd and Paisley, however, never spoke up! Like she knows or had a feeling of the way Paisley felt about Kydrick but still moved forward with him! She already felt some way but never communicated about it. Like they say - closed mouth don’t get feed -🤣! However, when he needed her the most, she was not there. Not only that she cheated and turned her back on both of her best friends when they needed her the most! Ole girl had me feeling someway about her at the beginning until she mad it right and finally did what should’ve been done years ago - communicate🫣!
Paisley, the flower of the crew! She was the more emotional one, had her goal and ready to live life. My girl is the definition of a true friend, but she too had me a little upset with her. Like girl, no one will know anything if you don’t speak up! However, my girl rocked hard for Kyd and stood by his side through it all! I mean putting her life on hold and changing her career to law to help him. During this process the bond that she and Janelle had was no long because my girl felt betrayed, but to me it was all lack of communication! When then gears switched between Kyd and Paisley and feelings got involve, things start to shift. When I say Paisley was stubborn, she was just that and when she wants someone or something that’s what she wants! Until she can get it, to her the world ended - lol! Paisley reminds me of myself with putting everyone before herself and if not careful it can bring you down and boy did it get her! What I will say, when she finally was about to regroup and finally see what everyone was telling her and live for self, she was about to regroup and live with self! Oh boy did it all work out for her in the long run.
Kydrick, him just got the short end of the stick by trying to help someone that was in danger! My guy lost 12 years of his life for something he didn’t do! Not only that he lost his father while down- 😢! That had me teary eyed as I can only imagine! What he didn’t lose was one of his best friends - Paisley! This young man told and begged her to live her life and not do the time with him, but babygirl wasn’t having it! The thing love will have you doing - 🥰. Speaking of love! Let me say how I respected Kyd and all he said to Paisley regarding his feelings and her! The way he stood on business behind it was everything to me! Like he needed to get himself together before pursuing anything with her! As hard as it may have been, it had to be done! Not only that being that he dated and loved Janelle, he needed to make sure that was done with before anything could happen! Oh but when it was did, he didn’t and wasn’t letting up off her!
Cyd has yet to disappoint when it comes to her work and look forward toto what’s in store next!
April 30, 2025
Cyn, Cyn, Cyn. Ma’am! You wreck me every time, but I love every minute of it! The way this story moved me I can barely put into words! ❤ Sadly, this ish is still happening everyday ruining lives!💔
Ughh…… 😤🤬
Kydrick, Janelle, and Paisley were the friend trio that did everything together since the toddler days. Until Kydrick and Janelle decided to become a couple in high school, and their vibe shifted. Leaving Paisley on the outside looking in. However, they stayed tight while Paisley kept her feelings for Kyd locked away. Then one party and one accusation changed it all! 💔
It became Paisley’s mission to see justice served and to free Kyd from his wrongful imprisonment. She worked tirelessly to get an appeal and allow him to have his day in court. Over the years, there was a shift in the relationship between Kyd and Paisley. Kyd had always adored her, but seeing her fight so hard for him, changed their dynamic.
Upon Kyd’s release Paisley was of course ecstatic, but also hopeful for what is to come. Now is their time. Paisley was selfless when it came to advocating for Kyd. However, she was selfish when it came to him. She was stubborn and wanted what she wanted, when she wanted. However, she didn’t consider what Kyd needed to do as a man to feel worthy of her. He did not have the opportunity to live alone and just be an adult in the free world. He wanted that, needed that, no matter how much it hurt Paisley to hear it. Their time would come soon. Another beautiful read! 👍🏾👍🏾
Ughh…… 😤🤬
Kydrick, Janelle, and Paisley were the friend trio that did everything together since the toddler days. Until Kydrick and Janelle decided to become a couple in high school, and their vibe shifted. Leaving Paisley on the outside looking in. However, they stayed tight while Paisley kept her feelings for Kyd locked away. Then one party and one accusation changed it all! 💔
It became Paisley’s mission to see justice served and to free Kyd from his wrongful imprisonment. She worked tirelessly to get an appeal and allow him to have his day in court. Over the years, there was a shift in the relationship between Kyd and Paisley. Kyd had always adored her, but seeing her fight so hard for him, changed their dynamic.
Upon Kyd’s release Paisley was of course ecstatic, but also hopeful for what is to come. Now is their time. Paisley was selfless when it came to advocating for Kyd. However, she was selfish when it came to him. She was stubborn and wanted what she wanted, when she wanted. However, she didn’t consider what Kyd needed to do as a man to feel worthy of her. He did not have the opportunity to live alone and just be an adult in the free world. He wanted that, needed that, no matter how much it hurt Paisley to hear it. Their time would come soon. Another beautiful read! 👍🏾👍🏾
June 28, 2025
3rd person, I enjoyed this read took me out of my reading slump. The love, the friendship, the transitions through rough and hard times and growth captivated my attention throughout this book
May 16, 2025
perfection
When I say that this story was sheer perfection, I absolutely mean it. I mean, I had all the fucking feels from start to freaking finish.. Cyn def made me have strong emotions like I felt like my heart was being pulled out of my chest with how much my emotions were running on edge with this couple. I was wishing for the best for them because they have been through so much together… I completely understood where Presley was coming from and dealing with Janelle because I wrote her ass off too after what she did, but for her to come to an understanding of why everything happened and to be mature about it in the end was beautiful. Hydrick that even after experiencing such a devastating start to being a young adult, it was great to see him accomplish the things that he missed out on. This book was just too cute and I will say this, Author is slowly but surely becoming one of my faves
When I say that this story was sheer perfection, I absolutely mean it. I mean, I had all the fucking feels from start to freaking finish.. Cyn def made me have strong emotions like I felt like my heart was being pulled out of my chest with how much my emotions were running on edge with this couple. I was wishing for the best for them because they have been through so much together… I completely understood where Presley was coming from and dealing with Janelle because I wrote her ass off too after what she did, but for her to come to an understanding of why everything happened and to be mature about it in the end was beautiful. Hydrick that even after experiencing such a devastating start to being a young adult, it was great to see him accomplish the things that he missed out on. This book was just too cute and I will say this, Author is slowly but surely becoming one of my faves
November 15, 2025
This story wasn’t working for me at all. There were too many unnecessary plot points that didn’t add anything to the story, and the character choices made everything feel weak. Paisley especially came across silly. She basically put her entire life on hold, switched careers, and revolved everything around Kydrick, yet none of it had any real impact. She wasn’t even the one handling his case, so all that sacrifice felt pointless.
The friendship dynamics didn’t make sense either. If Janelle dated Kydrick first, I expected some actual drama or tension between the friends, but there was nothing there. It felt like a wasted setup. The story kept introducing situations that should’ve mattered but didn’t go anywhere.
Pretty boring overall, and the characters weren’t strong enough to keep me interested. DNF.
The friendship dynamics didn’t make sense either. If Janelle dated Kydrick first, I expected some actual drama or tension between the friends, but there was nothing there. It felt like a wasted setup. The story kept introducing situations that should’ve mattered but didn’t go anywhere.
Pretty boring overall, and the characters weren’t strong enough to keep me interested. DNF.
May 1, 2025
Friends to Lovers!!
Friends to lovers is a favorite trope of mine, and Cyn did a wonderful job with this book. The book's prologue was something that I didn't see coming, and that grabbed my attention from that point on. The way that Paisley fought for her friend, Kydrick, was so amazing. Paisley always had more than friendship feelings for Kydrick, and I was glad that Kydrick realized that Paisley was it for him. The connection that they shared had always been there, but it became more intense once they got together. Their growth, both together and separate, plus their adult conversations helped to make their foundation stronger. This book had a great storyline and characters which made it a awesome read!!
Friends to lovers is a favorite trope of mine, and Cyn did a wonderful job with this book. The book's prologue was something that I didn't see coming, and that grabbed my attention from that point on. The way that Paisley fought for her friend, Kydrick, was so amazing. Paisley always had more than friendship feelings for Kydrick, and I was glad that Kydrick realized that Paisley was it for him. The connection that they shared had always been there, but it became more intense once they got together. Their growth, both together and separate, plus their adult conversations helped to make their foundation stronger. This book had a great storyline and characters which made it a awesome read!!
May 2, 2025
quick yet emotional read
Even though this book is short, the author does a great job of going into enough detail for you to fully feel the plight of the characters. Its an emotional story filled with passion, love and heartache. I will say that Paisley, the FMC, was at times a little frustrating. Yes she was selfless but also selfish in some ways. Unable to see things from others’ point of view. And Kydrick was hardened yet sweet, smart and thoughtful. It was beautiful seeing their ultimate ending. The only thing I would change is I wanted Steven to get some kind of repercussions for his actions. He was disgusting. Anyway - great story!
Even though this book is short, the author does a great job of going into enough detail for you to fully feel the plight of the characters. Its an emotional story filled with passion, love and heartache. I will say that Paisley, the FMC, was at times a little frustrating. Yes she was selfless but also selfish in some ways. Unable to see things from others’ point of view. And Kydrick was hardened yet sweet, smart and thoughtful. It was beautiful seeing their ultimate ending. The only thing I would change is I wanted Steven to get some kind of repercussions for his actions. He was disgusting. Anyway - great story!
June 7, 2025
First Time and I’m here to stay
This was my first reading by the author and I definitely enjoy with this one. Paisley was a real one for holding down Kydrick. I’m so glad he stood his ground on what he was trying to get to as a man. I love that he didn’t allow her feelings or the pressure to do something different change his mind because it helped him be who he needed to be. I kind of wish she would’ve sat down with Janelle and not necessarily rekindle, but spend more time understanding her.
This was my first reading by the author and I definitely enjoy with this one. Paisley was a real one for holding down Kydrick. I’m so glad he stood his ground on what he was trying to get to as a man. I love that he didn’t allow her feelings or the pressure to do something different change his mind because it helped him be who he needed to be. I kind of wish she would’ve sat down with Janelle and not necessarily rekindle, but spend more time understanding her.
August 9, 2025
When you think of a true ride-or-die, you’ve got to mention Paisley’s name. This book had me so emotional. It was absolutely beautiful. I couldn’t help but put myself in Paisley’s shoes, feeling all the emotions and thinking, "please, I just want to be with you… love me!" 😩
I adored Kydrick. After everything he’d been through, he was still such a stand-up guy. What a man—what a man—what a mighty good man!
This was such a beautiful story. A reminder to be patient and not let circumstances sway you from what’s real.
I adored Kydrick. After everything he’d been through, he was still such a stand-up guy. What a man—what a man—what a mighty good man!
This was such a beautiful story. A reminder to be patient and not let circumstances sway you from what’s real.
October 19, 2025
Kyd🫶🏾
This was a great read from beginning to end. This book was definitely a page turner and I didn’t stop until I reached the end. Pooh made me what to punch her in the throat because her she was just thinking about herself and not listening that man. How can you mad at him for getting his ish together before committing to you? Yes you spent forever trying to get him out but he had to find himself again. Sad that he lost so many years due to the white man. Ugh but loved that they got their HEA.
This was a great read from beginning to end. This book was definitely a page turner and I didn’t stop until I reached the end. Pooh made me what to punch her in the throat because her she was just thinking about herself and not listening that man. How can you mad at him for getting his ish together before committing to you? Yes you spent forever trying to get him out but he had to find himself again. Sad that he lost so many years due to the white man. Ugh but loved that they got their HEA.
September 28, 2025
Love The Author Concept of Love
Cyn has done an amazing job with this book. It gives you the ability to capture what a destined love really feels like while reading this book. It’ll make you cry, smile and feel emotions like you’re part of their lives. Great job author looking forward to reading more from you. This was my 2nd book I’ve read and now I’m going to read my next book.
Cyn has done an amazing job with this book. It gives you the ability to capture what a destined love really feels like while reading this book. It’ll make you cry, smile and feel emotions like you’re part of their lives. Great job author looking forward to reading more from you. This was my 2nd book I’ve read and now I’m going to read my next book.
April 28, 2025
So sweet
This was such a sweet read. Kyn and Paisley were destined. Their love spanned decades as friends to lovers. An unfortunate lie tore their dynamics apart, but Paisley stayed the course, changed her life to right the wrongs, and eventually found her hea with the man that always owned her heart. Happy Reading Y'all.💋
This was such a sweet read. Kyn and Paisley were destined. Their love spanned decades as friends to lovers. An unfortunate lie tore their dynamics apart, but Paisley stayed the course, changed her life to right the wrongs, and eventually found her hea with the man that always owned her heart. Happy Reading Y'all.💋
May 3, 2025
Why am I crying tears of happiness?
Cyn, you did it again. You always get straight to the point and take readers on a journey. Loved the story and history of Paisley,Kyd and even Janelle. True friends, true love no matter who it’s with never dies. The best part of your books is how hard these men go to be the one these women deserves.
Thank you
Cyn, you did it again. You always get straight to the point and take readers on a journey. Loved the story and history of Paisley,Kyd and even Janelle. True friends, true love no matter who it’s with never dies. The best part of your books is how hard these men go to be the one these women deserves.
Thank you
April 26, 2025
Emotional
I couldn’t put this book down! Emotions all over the place but for a good reason. The build up of the characters and closure were sure fire! Paisley fought hard for Kyd…if only everyone understood true love.
I couldn’t put this book down! Emotions all over the place but for a good reason. The build up of the characters and closure were sure fire! Paisley fought hard for Kyd…if only everyone understood true love.
August 1, 2025
Wonderful💞💞
If you have not read this you're missing a gem. I experiences so many emotions reading this, anger, hurt, and sadness. It was so real, the author touched on a topic that still occurs today in 2025. For people of color. Kudos to the author👏🏾👏🏾
If you have not read this you're missing a gem. I experiences so many emotions reading this, anger, hurt, and sadness. It was so real, the author touched on a topic that still occurs today in 2025. For people of color. Kudos to the author👏🏾👏🏾
September 28, 2025
All the feels..
The story unfolded well and pulled me in. I turned the pages easily. Their journey was not a straight road, but P was a rider if I ever saw one. So glad she finally found joy within herself.
The story unfolded well and pulled me in. I turned the pages easily. Their journey was not a straight road, but P was a rider if I ever saw one. So glad she finally found joy within herself.
November 4, 2025
I’m in tears!!!!!
This book hit home guurrrlll😭🥹I just love love it had my emotions on lock. Best book ever!!!!! Cyn knew what she was doing its the little details for me the time it too the realism with everything.
This book hit home guurrrlll😭🥹I just love love it had my emotions on lock. Best book ever!!!!! Cyn knew what she was doing its the little details for me the time it too the realism with everything.
January 2, 2026
I loved the way the author handled Kydricks release and how he didn’t come out thinking about a relationship and was mature enough to know him and paisley needed time apart to work on themselves to be stronger partners
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 23, 2025
set me free
The opening scene 🎬 had me glued to the pages. Good read. The love that was meant to be found its way!
The opening scene 🎬 had me glued to the pages. Good read. The love that was meant to be found its way!
May 18, 2025
im crying
im literally laying here at 2:30 am crying. i am in shambles this is so beautiful and i hope i find someone to love and who loves me this fiercely one day
im literally laying here at 2:30 am crying. i am in shambles this is so beautiful and i hope i find someone to love and who loves me this fiercely one day
July 28, 2025
Beautiful 🥺🥺🥺🥺
It was absolutely beautiful 🥺🥺🥺🥺 Kyd did piss me off a couple times but damn I get it and it was definitely beautiful 🥰🥺
It was absolutely beautiful 🥺🥺🥺🥺 Kyd did piss me off a couple times but damn I get it and it was definitely beautiful 🥰🥺
Read
August 14, 2025Cyn got me hooked with the first novella I read, so naturally I fell down the backlist rabbit hole. Another banger.
Note: I no longer rate novellas
Note: I no longer rate novellas
August 23, 2025
Kendrick and Paisley
This friendship has stood the test of time. The trio was really a duo with a forever love and story.
This friendship has stood the test of time. The trio was really a duo with a forever love and story.
October 20, 2025
😍😍😍
Wow. This one really pulled out the emotional rollercoaster ride. U feel the love, betrayal, heartbreak through this book. I love this one.
Wow. This one really pulled out the emotional rollercoaster ride. U feel the love, betrayal, heartbreak through this book. I love this one.
May 30, 2025
Great Read!
I’m happy they were able to forgive Nelle. They were able to get there happily ever after. They got the family they both wanted.
I’m happy they were able to forgive Nelle. They were able to get there happily ever after. They got the family they both wanted.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews