The explosive finale of Jahquel J.’s dramatic and juicy urban romance series To All the Thugs I Loved that Didn’t Love Me Back weaves an emotional tale of love, justice, tough choices, and the unrelenting pursuit of happiness, perfect for fans of Empire.
In the finale, everyone is trying hard to get their piece of happiness. Will Polite figure out who he wants, and what he wants? Will he go through with the wedding? Or will he choose Sinclair and their child, while walking away from Kamaya.
With Bless getting arrested, will he be prosecuted for something he didn’t do? Or did he have something to do with it? Will he and Ace’s relationship remain, or will she allow Niko to squeeze his way back into she and Neveah’s life.
Will Prayer and Valarie finally get it together for their kids? Is Prayer willing to leave his girlfriend behind to become a family man, or will he continue his relationship while coparenting with Valarie?
Everyone wants happiness and their happy ending, but will everyone get that?
Ace was stupid, dramatic and selfish from beginning to end. Most of her problems came from her being an idiot. She was basically obsessed with Niko when he didn't give her that same energy and constantly played in her face, wasn't ever there for their daughter, then later we find out he put his hands on her like he did the other idiot Emani. Bless, Polite and Prayer were F boys with money, nothing was truly likeable about them. I couldn't stand Bless at all, he was so disrespectful at all times, he could say he cared about Ace but his words and actions didn't match, he figured I'm sorry was enough and had the audacity to be mad that she was mad at him for lying, my problem is Ace didn't make him work for it she went from being a doormat for one F boy to looking stupid and being a doormat for an even bigger one. Polite was a wuss, sorry he was, he lead Singer on time and again only to keep lying and going back to his fiancee he supposedly didn't like and she carried his balls in her purse and for what? He had no reason to stay he did because he wanted to, if one didn't want him he always had the other one to fall back on, I will say Sin didn't cave as easy, but she still caved, that he stayed with Kamaya to save Sin business was bs and didn't make sense at all, she couldn't ruin that girls business at all. Prayer was another F boy who lied about being in a whole relationship to his newly found baby mama of his triplets Val. She was better than the other two with just co-parenting at first, but he took did the back and forth. I can't stand the stupid women trope, why must women in these books accept the bare minimum from ain't shit men who never have to really work for forgiveness if they even deserve to be forgiven. Why do these ain't shit men always get away with murder for doing the bare minimum besides buying crap or throwing money at everything smh. I know to pass next time.
This series started out good and strong. The introduction to the characters and their dynamics were clear. Along the way, it was inconsistent. There were also some grammatical errors. Polite and Sin were so toxic and exhausting. Polite did alot of back and forth & still didn’t really make the decision of who he was going to be with. Maya pretty much made it for him and he turned around & kicked it to Sin like he did it. lol Prayer and Val had a great story line that I wish we could’ve gotten more of them. I enjoyed Bless and Ace even with their strife. Overall, it was very realistic and still left me interested enough to want to know the outcome. The end seemed a bit rushed.
This absolutely could have been wrapped up in 2 books. It was very repetitive. I honestly didn't really like Polite or Bless, but I didn't like them more as the series went on. Polite didn't do a damn thing when it came to making the decision about being with Sinclair, she was the one that actually handled everything for him.
This was a good series! This last book tied up all the loose ends! I definitely wasn’t expecting it to end the way it did! Like WOW! Overall this was a good read!
The books was so Exhausting. The whole series of books was nothing but messiness all of them. I tried to give it a chance by reading them all but every book was messiness.
I enjoyed this series and overall I would rate this entire series a 3.5. I can see the evolution of Jahquel J writing after reading this series. Now let’s get into the characters… Val was the only mature character out of everyone despite her keeping the truth from Prayer and choosing to suffer for a year. Prayer was a good guy. The only thing he did was lie about breaking up with the toxic ex girlfriend. Sin and Vio was a hot mess!! There were too many holes in their storyline and I can’t stand Vio making himself look like he had balls to Sin when it was Kamala who broke everything off. Although Ashley got on my nerves, she didn’t deserve that ending. Will and Ace were ok but Ace doing the back and forth and Will lying when Ace asked for the truth got on my nerves.
4/5 only because the ending felt rushed and it definitely could have been one more book. I was so sad that Ashley died from childbirth just when things started to get better. Sin is dumb af for taking Polite back. I’m happy Val got her man and help with those three babies. The series was a 5/5 for sure. Very crazy, messy, and exactly why I love a Jahquel J book. Bless and Ace were a couple I wasn't sure would make it but I love how Bless takes care of Ace and her daughter. I knew Bless was going to kill Ace’s baby daddy and I’m happy he got his revenge!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I’m glad the series was over. This series felt very repetitive - particularly this book. The men were on permanent BS and I’m sure the women only had like 3 brain cells running together. The impromptu wedding at the end 😒
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Wow, I did not expect that ending. I am kinda mad that Ashley died. I wasn’t a big fan of her and she definitely had a terrible attitude, but I don’t think she should have died. But the same time I love how this book portrayed real life. It’s a known fact that many black women die during childbirth. What I don’t understand is, if Ashley had the best doctor how did they not catch anything sooner during her pregnancy? It’s sad because Bless lost 2 baby mothers. Ashley was really annoying throughout the series. I don’t understand how she could be in her feelings about Bless and Ace being together. Bless told her from the beginning that he was not interested in more than sex. But somehow she felt she was entitled to feel a way about Ace? Bless is a good man and I hate that he had to loose another important person in his life.
As far as Sin, I love how Kamaya approached her after finding out about her and Vio. Although Kamaya did her dirt way before. It was nice seeing someone sort of humble Sin, even if it was only for a short period of time. I am really disappointed in her character. In the beginning she was such a strong minded individual, then towards the end, she just gave up on herself. She was okay with being a side piece. I had to tell Siri to play “The Weekend by Sza” while reading her chapter. And I also dislike how. Val or Ace didn’t tell her that what she was doing was not okay. They touched on it a little but at the same time, they dislike Kamaya because of how she came at Sin. At the end of the day Sin and Polite was wrong. And eventually we learned about Kamaya infidelity and everything came full circle. Personally I am not a fan of Polite.
Val and Prayer were my favorite people throughout this series. I was happy he wasn’t upset about Val keeping the triplets from him. He understood why and he did what needed to be done to make sure they were taken care of. Although he had a slip up, I was happy to see them be able to work things out. It was nice reading about Val. I also forgot to mention the love I have for Bless. I love how he took on Neveah as his daughter even when him and Ace weren’t together. We love a black man who steps up for someone else’s seed.
3.25 ⭐️ The ending of this series felt really rushed. The first two books were so good it started going downhill in book 3 with all the messiness and then in this book the way things wrapped up they felt unnecessary all together. So a bit of a letdown for me.
Let me just start by saying this wasn’t my favorite series by Jaquel J. It was not a lot going on and some of the added things didn’t feel needed. Like Ace breaking up with Bless for him to heal, girl you could been with that man while he worked through his stuff. Also, she needed healing too, she stayed trying to leave when things didn’t go her way. Or give ultimatums.
Ashley being pregnant was another added thing that could have been left out. The books were also way too short and could have been combined into 2 books instead of 4. Got us out her wasting credits or buying books for this BS. I found myself skipping through these books to get to the point. It took forever to get to the stuff I wanted answers to. I felt played with the entire book and then everything got dumped at the end to get us to read the next book. What a scam.
Okay book 3 started off jumping a little bit. Also, in book 3 I was confused because Kamaya said she called Sin to put a pause on the wedding and in book 3 she was still sending requests to Sin’s staff while she’s in the hospital. I was a little excited to hear more about their Prayer and Val’s story. Giving Kni a chapter in book was a waste of paper and it felt like fluff. Man don’t nobody want to know about him and his ex, get to the point. Also, in this book Ace says Niko has never put his hands on her but in book 2 Niko admitted to slapping Ace once. The discrepancies bothered me it’s like sloppy work. Also, the author spells Ashley’s name differently in book 3, it was Ashlee but now it’s Ashley.
I didn’t like Ace’s attitude with Emani in book 3, she didn’t do anything to you, that was all Niko. She could have been more supportive of her when she came to her, she came off as a jealous ex and that’s not a good look. If you have moved on and are happy, don’t be bitter. She is still getting on my nerves in Book 3, I agree with Sin’s thoughts on her feelings about the Bless situation. Be and that he lied, she’s too quick to throw away a good man but spend years on a no good one. Girl, make it make sense. She irritated me and was getting on my nerves.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Almost all of the women in the book were pick me’s. I don’t care how much money a guy got a lot of the men in the book were F boys. They lied when it wasn’t even necessary as well bless if it was made that whole relationship would’ve never happened. He lied about a whole baby and lied to her face multiple times. Polite is a confused inconsiderate man, him and Maya should’ve left each other long time ago. Sin should’ve left once she found him in the club the first time and found out he had a fiancé. She should’ve left him alone. I feel she should’ve gave. Kni a chance. But she was holding secrets too, and she wasn’t being straightforward and I don’t think he would want her anyway so that relationship wouldn’t work out because she been with polite and she didn’t tell him and she didn’t think it was a big deal. I couldn’t believe sin was going to settle to be a side chick and not the same night she chose to have a baby with him That was crazy. Ashley she got on my nerves because he told her what it was from the beginning, but I didn’t like what Ashley did because she knew that he started to show interest in Ace now all of a sudden off to all those years she wanna jump on him. Prayer relationship was good he lied but that’s something that could be worked through. The F boy and pick me behavior was at an all-time high in this book, but it was a good read.
First I must say....I went through it. 😂😂.I think the boys responds because momma reaponds like that as well. It never fails..the truth shall set you free. Glad moma was able to share her secret. That created a whirlwind of secrets coming out. They were still there for each other. Now...Now...Sin..finally came through. Speaking and sharing her truths with her mom. Glad they were able to bond. Polite will still get no claps. He took too long. K was a hot mess and got exactly what she needed. Ace finally kinda got it together. Val and Prayer I love. Her mom is toxic and whatever that may be. My MVP goes to Bless. Yes, he was rude and 1/2 kept it a 💯. However, that man had a heart of gold. Didn't see Ashley going out like that. I will still say Ashley wanted Bless and that was her issue. No need to talk about Niko. Glad Nana is getting time and help. Overall, I loved the story for the true issues that Black families face. Therapy is our friend. Shutting down is not the answer. Black women being heard and cared for during childbirth. I loved it. 😂😂😂👍🏾✨️❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This was a cute series. A little repetitive, but good nonetheless.
The bonus was that the voice narrators were from the Menace series so… 🤤
Anyway, happy that everyone got the ending they deserved because Kamaya, count your days!!!
….
⭐ 1 Star – Didn’t Like It • Forced yourself to finish or DNF’d • Poor writing, confusing, boring, or irritating • Would not recommend • Actively disliked it
⭐ ⭐ 2 Stars – It Was Okay / Meh • Finished it, but barely • Some good moments, but overall disappointing • Wouldn’t reread • Might warn people before recommending
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 3 Stars – Liked It • Enjoyable enough • Solid story, but not memorable • Some flaws (pacing, characters, plot holes) • Would recommend casually, not enthusiastically
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 4 Stars – Really Liked It • Engaging, well-written • Strong characters or plot • You’d recommend it without hesitation • Minor issues, but they didn’t ruin the experience
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 5 Stars – Loved It • Couldn’t put it down • Emotional impact, memorable • Would reread or buy a physical copy • You’re still thinking about it after finishing
To All the Thugs I Loved That Didn’t Love Me Back was a solid series overall.
There were definitely moments where I wanted to scream at the characters, but in the end, the love stories for the brothers were sweet.
Bless, in particular—his attitude was understandable given what he went through, but at times it felt a little over the top. I can’t even imagine losing someone you love because of people you consider family… or “workers.”
I do wish we got more of Prayer and Valerie. The way they randomly slept together, then crossed paths again and ended up falling in love—it was wild. It definitely makes you wonder if things like that really happen in real life.
As for Noelle, the middle brother, Polite… I’ll be honest, I could’ve done without his character. For some reason, I just couldn’t connect with him or fully get into his storyline.
All in all, I’d give the series a 3.8/5. It was enjoyable, but I’d love to see more about the mom and the other brother in future installments.
This series captivated my attention from start to finish! Ace and Bless were a dynamic duo, though Ace's constant worry about being second to Shai got a bit tiresome. As for Sin and Polite, they were meant to be together, but Polite's weakness for Kamaya was frustrating. Kamaya, a true antagonist, got exactly what she deserved in the end. Prayer, however, truly stood out. Among the three brothers, he impressed me the most with his maturity and sense of responsibility. He handled his obligations admirably once he got the hang of it. And then there was Yero, or Niko—what a bum! He definitely needed to be dealt with. At times, the chapters felt a bit too verbose, with the author occasionally repeating points from earlier sections, which was a bit annoying. Overall, though, I highly recommend this series and would rate it a solid 9/10.
"When I married her, I knew her butt was hardheaded and independent." "I ain't no boy. I'm trying to be your man." ""Life was short and I wanted to show her how a man like me got down when he was in love."
The final book in this series, was a world wind of emotions, drama, and heightened emotions, I absolutely enjoyed this series with all the messy things it included. Bless, Polite and Prayer are not perfect characters and I am glad their imperfect ways did not stop them from straightening up and becoming better men for the women they love. This story had some sad parts and the way it ended made sense and felt like a good place to stop at.
The “sweet” elements highlight love, hope, and fleeting happiness—those moments that make life feel meaningful and worth holding onto. These passages offer warmth and light, often serving as emotional breathers amid heavier themes. The “sad” portions are poignant and honest, addressing loss, disappointment, and vulnerability without sugarcoating the pain. They invite empathy and reflection, allowing readers to feel seen in their own struggles. The “sour” aspects add depth, exploring resentment, regret, and the hard truths that often accompany growth. Rather than feeling negative, this bitterness feels necessary, grounding the book in realism.
Very good finale even though it was full of broken promises and shattered dreams. Get ready for an ending that I bet you don't see coming. Everything that glitter ain't gold, just ask judge Luke. Who's judge Luke you say, read on to find out how he makes all the pieces fit. Kamaya, honey just take off running cause Sinclair is coming for you. Ace is still hard headed and Val finally got a good job . Bishops money won't heal this heartbreak. Please read this entire series.
Beautiful!! Ash...🕊️ Even though she was gettin on mi nerves, I didn't expect tht outcome! Curve ball! Tht part had mi bout b emotional wit them. Aww...babi royal! Ok bless nw, i thought he was let niko slide. I knew kamaya wasn't all tht clean who would of thought tho lol! Sin ma had the tea lol. Im happi for all involved! Bless and Shay, Val and Prayer too cute! Sin and Polite beautiful their love was pure and unconditional im glad polite finalli came to his senses, they went together well! I loved this series, hate to c it end! As usual Mrs. J! U did tht! 💐
A good read but I don’t think it needed to be 4 parts. However, Bishop gave me the cackle and emotional development I love, bc I love a good cackle in a book he kept me entertained while sometime spissing menoff and stressing me out. Now Ace she stressed me out I wanted to shake her ass sheesh lol and Sin had me wanting to drink for her dumbness. Polite if I were ever to meet you I would say square up you and that heffa lol Val I enjoyed her story she irked me some too but it was well written.
I’m not going to tell the story, you need to read it, but I will say it was very much worth the wait. I do appreciate you Jaquel bcz as you stated in ur forward you too need a break, and as selfish as I want to be I understand and want you to know your greatly appreciated. But PAAAAHHLEEEZZZZZZZZ find it in ur big heart ☺️to give us another series when your off ur hiatus. Ppl just read !!!! Happy reading
MESSSSYYYYYY. I don’t know where to begin with all this dramaaaaaa. Everytime one of the couples was in a good place here comes something else for them to run away from. Also the boys hiding the pregnancies, I cannot. I was sad about the ending and how Ashley died during childbirth, poor Bless having to lose another person in his life. I’m glad there was a happy ending for the couples but holy mind f***.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I just love Bless with his rude azz. Although he's still mean and rude I could see his growth. I'm glad Ace started acting like she had some sense. I like how she took the initiative to be the bigger person and talk to Ashley. That might was what saved her son's life even if she unfortunately lost hers. Kamaya got the Karma that she deserved. I'm glad Prayer and Val going strong with no interference.💌💌
So this series has been a rollercoaster ride. Lots of twist and turns. I really was anticipating the final book to be..I don't know something else. It felt rushed and I would have enjoyed another 20 pages if the ending was more developed. Nevertheless, After reading this and Homies, lovers and friends I see a pattern and development of Jahquel and the direction leading to her new work is spectacular!
After getting dog walked thru the first 3 books, this last book wrapped everything up nice and neat. Kamaya deserved all the karma she received. Polite was working my nerves up until the wedding date. Sin was a side chick but not really, so I didn’t hate her, but she made it hard to root for her too? Bless has the biggest heart and I’m glad Ace was able to match his energy. Val & Prayer, I’d love to see them in future books.