What do you think?
Rate this book
Shooting for his Heart
For the past year, Evonne “Vonnie” Ross has been living with the man she thought she would spend the rest of her life with. As she likes to tell her friends, he checks all of her boxes. Her man is handsome, successful, and takes pride in being a provider. When Vonnie’s skilled hand at makeup gains her the opportunity to work on a movie set, her relationship starts to falter. William doesn’t want Vonnie working at all, let alone leaving town to work on a movie set. Once she’s given an ultimatum, Vonnie finds out just how fragile her relationship with William actually is.
Marshawn Sheppard, a renowned horror movie director, is tasked with the challenge of shooting a dystopian fantasy film. Never one to back down from a challenge, Marshawn agrees to make the move. Unbeknownst to him, the real challenge will come in the form of a beautiful makeup and wardrobe designer with red hair. Vonnie’s infectious laughter and sparkling personality intrigues and captivates Marshawn from the start. Everyone knowns Marshawn doesn’t mix business and pleasure. For Vonnie, he just might make an exception.
Marshawn Sheppard, a renowned horror movie director, is tasked with the challenge of shooting a dystopian fantasy film. Never one to back down from a challenge, Marshawn agrees to make the move. Unbeknownst to him, the real challenge will come in the form of a beautiful makeup and wardrobe designer with red hair. Vonnie’s infectious laughter and sparkling personality intrigues and captivates Marshawn from the start. Everyone knowns Marshawn doesn’t mix business and pleasure. For Vonnie, he just might make an exception.
130 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 30, 2025
102 people are currently reading
53 people want to read
About the author
Tatum James
64 books553 followersTatum James is a passionate author of romance, urban fiction, and women’s fiction. Since publishing her debut novella Identical Sins in 2018, she has written more than 30 titles—each one known for its unique storylines, unpredictable twists, and vivid characters. A true storyteller at heart, Tatum loves painting pictures with words, weaving emotion, tension, and passion into every page.
A South Georgia native from the small town of Abbeville, Tatum grew up surrounded by the quiet of the rural South—a place where imagination had room to run wild. That early creativity now fuels her writing, often infused with her love of storytelling and music. These twin passions frequently shape the themes and rhythm of her books.
Outside of writing, Tatum has worked as a dedicated nurse for over a decade. Her compassion and life experience shine through in the depth of her characters and the realism of her stories.
A South Georgia native from the small town of Abbeville, Tatum grew up surrounded by the quiet of the rural South—a place where imagination had room to run wild. That early creativity now fuels her writing, often infused with her love of storytelling and music. These twin passions frequently shape the themes and rhythm of her books.
Outside of writing, Tatum has worked as a dedicated nurse for over a decade. Her compassion and life experience shine through in the depth of her characters and the realism of her stories.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
October 11, 2025
Just needed the loose ends tied up...
Ms. Tatum, I'm so glad that Vonnie finally got to tell her story. She needed to be loved properly by the right man. William was not her person. He was a hater when she needed a supporter. When God sets up the breakthrough you have been longing for, he makes sure he does it big. Marshawn served a dual purpose in her life. He was the man that she needed to fuel and water her career dreams. He was also the lover who made her feel unconditional love and attention. I feel like it's more to their story, or at least I could have read a few more chapters. I would have loved to know where Marcia was located. Was she in a rehab, prison, or just living completely separate from her family? Marshawn did what any good man or brother would do that is step in for his nephews. They deserved stability and a "parent" in their lives. Marshawn was the father figure while Marshae was the mother figure. The two together made the best mother/father and sister/brother duo. Vonnie was just an addition to the mix.
This is a good read, I just needed a little more to tie up the loose ends. There was just enough melodrama from Marshawn's ex, Clarissa. She was a pain in the tush. Then it was Gia that was the best coworker slash friend that Vonnie could ever meet. So I highly suggest this book. Grab your copy today.
Ms. Tatum, I'm so glad that Vonnie finally got to tell her story. She needed to be loved properly by the right man. William was not her person. He was a hater when she needed a supporter. When God sets up the breakthrough you have been longing for, he makes sure he does it big. Marshawn served a dual purpose in her life. He was the man that she needed to fuel and water her career dreams. He was also the lover who made her feel unconditional love and attention. I feel like it's more to their story, or at least I could have read a few more chapters. I would have loved to know where Marcia was located. Was she in a rehab, prison, or just living completely separate from her family? Marshawn did what any good man or brother would do that is step in for his nephews. They deserved stability and a "parent" in their lives. Marshawn was the father figure while Marshae was the mother figure. The two together made the best mother/father and sister/brother duo. Vonnie was just an addition to the mix.
This is a good read, I just needed a little more to tie up the loose ends. There was just enough melodrama from Marshawn's ex, Clarissa. She was a pain in the tush. Then it was Gia that was the best coworker slash friend that Vonnie could ever meet. So I highly suggest this book. Grab your copy today.
October 7, 2025
Nice
For some reason the cover pictures did not fit for Marshawn and Vonnie. She was so sassy and mouthy cutness, and Marshawn was not this guy in my head. He was bossy, kind of mean, suppose to be handsome, and extremely standoffish. With that said, the story was a read good. I liked the premise, and the storyline was well executed. I don't really have any complaints.
For some reason the cover pictures did not fit for Marshawn and Vonnie. She was so sassy and mouthy cutness, and Marshawn was not this guy in my head. He was bossy, kind of mean, suppose to be handsome, and extremely standoffish. With that said, the story was a read good. I liked the premise, and the storyline was well executed. I don't really have any complaints.
December 15, 2025
✅✅✅
All I have to say is what one man won’t do another one will. I’m so happy Vonnie followed her heart and chased her dreams
All I have to say is what one man won’t do another one will. I’m so happy Vonnie followed her heart and chased her dreams
October 16, 2025
Just Like That
Marshawn was a whole sexy mess. He was so used to being in charge and rude to everyone because it worked. This movie is stressing him because his ex Clarissa with her pompous self is working on another film he’s directing. Her very presence irks his soul which causes him to have attitudes unknowingly and non purposely towards others. But attitude and all, he can’t fight what Vonnie does to him and he doesn’t know how to handle it. Marshawn’s focus has only been on his career and family. Sister and two nephews in his custody. He’s not looking for a relationship after his divorce, and most definitely he’s not mixing work with pleasure. He has no chance against the beautiful and vivacious Vonnie.
Vonnie herself has a boyfriend that does not support her career, that he refers to as her little makeup thing. He doesn’t want her to work so she could be dependent upon him. After several insults and attempts to guilt her into staying home as he’s a man and has needs, so she can’t get mad at him handling that with whoever, Vonnie packs and heads to New Orleans to seize the great opportunity afforded her.
Once arriving, of course the mean Marshawn has a not at all positive encounter with Vonnie which puts him in a bad light with her.
Clarissa is being her.natural, pompous and disrespectful self but gets put in her place . Don’t understand why she was never dealt with!
During the week’s break from filming,both Vonnie and Marshawn stay behind and find themselves touring NOLA with him as the guide. They actually enjoy each other’s presence and the desires can no longer be held at bay. At this point it’s up and all about them. They were perfect together. Each knowing how to encourage and support each other. Great story development.
Marshawn was a whole sexy mess. He was so used to being in charge and rude to everyone because it worked. This movie is stressing him because his ex Clarissa with her pompous self is working on another film he’s directing. Her very presence irks his soul which causes him to have attitudes unknowingly and non purposely towards others. But attitude and all, he can’t fight what Vonnie does to him and he doesn’t know how to handle it. Marshawn’s focus has only been on his career and family. Sister and two nephews in his custody. He’s not looking for a relationship after his divorce, and most definitely he’s not mixing work with pleasure. He has no chance against the beautiful and vivacious Vonnie.
Vonnie herself has a boyfriend that does not support her career, that he refers to as her little makeup thing. He doesn’t want her to work so she could be dependent upon him. After several insults and attempts to guilt her into staying home as he’s a man and has needs, so she can’t get mad at him handling that with whoever, Vonnie packs and heads to New Orleans to seize the great opportunity afforded her.
Once arriving, of course the mean Marshawn has a not at all positive encounter with Vonnie which puts him in a bad light with her.
Clarissa is being her.natural, pompous and disrespectful self but gets put in her place . Don’t understand why she was never dealt with!
During the week’s break from filming,both Vonnie and Marshawn stay behind and find themselves touring NOLA with him as the guide. They actually enjoy each other’s presence and the desires can no longer be held at bay. At this point it’s up and all about them. They were perfect together. Each knowing how to encourage and support each other. Great story development.
January 30, 2026
This was a cutesy workplace grumpy/ sunshine of sorts. Of course, he falls first but the nature of relationships in his world means that he is hesitant to risk at this potential happiness, especially if it could affect her future work opportunities.
Marshawn already survived a very public and tumultuous marriage to an actress when he was way too young to understand her manipulations. He decided from then on that as a director, he would no longer have relationships with other people in the movie industry that he was working with. He adopted a whole asshole vibe on set just to make himself seem as unattractive and unapproachable as possible.
But here comes Evonne like a tornado blowing all of his rules out the window. Not only does she challenge his creative process and production demands constructively, but he is awed by her own creativity and is secretly ecstatic with how her vision for wardrobe and makeup blends with his.
Their banter is funny and flirtatious and watching them getting to know each other intimately will have you giggling. Shoutout to the side characters that also brought humour and necessary perspective - Marshawn's nephews Evan and Nick, his sister Marshae and of course Evonne's partner in creativity Gia.
Marshawn already survived a very public and tumultuous marriage to an actress when he was way too young to understand her manipulations. He decided from then on that as a director, he would no longer have relationships with other people in the movie industry that he was working with. He adopted a whole asshole vibe on set just to make himself seem as unattractive and unapproachable as possible.
But here comes Evonne like a tornado blowing all of his rules out the window. Not only does she challenge his creative process and production demands constructively, but he is awed by her own creativity and is secretly ecstatic with how her vision for wardrobe and makeup blends with his.
Their banter is funny and flirtatious and watching them getting to know each other intimately will have you giggling. Shoutout to the side characters that also brought humour and necessary perspective - Marshawn's nephews Evan and Nick, his sister Marshae and of course Evonne's partner in creativity Gia.
October 15, 2025
Marshawn and Vonnie!!
Vonnie was living with her boyfriend, William, when a great career opportunity came up. Since William did not support her career, he gave her ultimatum. I'm glad that Vonnie didn't let that trifling man stop her from taking a chance on bettering her career. It led to her finding the right man for her in Marshawn. Marshawn and Vonnie first meeting was fraught with tension since he had a certain way of working. However, Marshawn found himself unable to stay from Vonnie. I loved the vibe between Marshawn and Vonnie. Both of them had slick mouths that I enjoyed and had me cracking up. 😂😂 The friendship that developed between Vonnie and Gia was another highlight of the book. They worked well together, and Gia was a cheerleader for Marshawn and Vonnie's relationship. This was a really good book that I recommend you read too!!
Vonnie was living with her boyfriend, William, when a great career opportunity came up. Since William did not support her career, he gave her ultimatum. I'm glad that Vonnie didn't let that trifling man stop her from taking a chance on bettering her career. It led to her finding the right man for her in Marshawn. Marshawn and Vonnie first meeting was fraught with tension since he had a certain way of working. However, Marshawn found himself unable to stay from Vonnie. I loved the vibe between Marshawn and Vonnie. Both of them had slick mouths that I enjoyed and had me cracking up. 😂😂 The friendship that developed between Vonnie and Gia was another highlight of the book. They worked well together, and Gia was a cheerleader for Marshawn and Vonnie's relationship. This was a really good book that I recommend you read too!!
November 4, 2025
She did it again!!
What can I say about Shooting for his Heart?!?!? I absolutely loved everything about this book. It reminded me of the love I want for myself one day.
Evonne had a man in her life that took care of her but he didn’t support her dreams and that’s what she truly wanted. Then she got the job offer that changed everything! She meet her favorite director, who fell in love with her at first sight but past hurt had him fighting his feelings at first. Then they started spending time together and the rest is history.
If you have read any of Tatum’s catalog you know she can tell a story, so if you haven’t read this story yet you definitely need to add it to your TBR!!
What can I say about Shooting for his Heart?!?!? I absolutely loved everything about this book. It reminded me of the love I want for myself one day.
Evonne had a man in her life that took care of her but he didn’t support her dreams and that’s what she truly wanted. Then she got the job offer that changed everything! She meet her favorite director, who fell in love with her at first sight but past hurt had him fighting his feelings at first. Then they started spending time together and the rest is history.
If you have read any of Tatum’s catalog you know she can tell a story, so if you haven’t read this story yet you definitely need to add it to your TBR!!
October 5, 2025
Vonnie dreams came true
I’m glad Vonnie worked that wedding and linked up with Gia. That led her to see her man’s true colors, get the job of her dream and find the man who really supported and loved her. She gets to travel the world why doing what she loves with the man she loves. Marshawn was a difficult movie producer who thought he didn’t have time to settle down. He was so busy with his job and taking care of his two nephews. His ex-wife dimmed his light when it came to love until he ran into Ms Vonnie. I enjoyed this quick read. This story has me ready to go back and visit New Orleans lol.
I’m glad Vonnie worked that wedding and linked up with Gia. That led her to see her man’s true colors, get the job of her dream and find the man who really supported and loved her. She gets to travel the world why doing what she loves with the man she loves. Marshawn was a difficult movie producer who thought he didn’t have time to settle down. He was so busy with his job and taking care of his two nephews. His ex-wife dimmed his light when it came to love until he ran into Ms Vonnie. I enjoyed this quick read. This story has me ready to go back and visit New Orleans lol.
October 6, 2025
I’ve never finished a book so fast… and got upset about it
Firstly, William had to go. That ma was trash. Filth. Unsupportive and possessive. Marshawn was smitten the second his eyes landed on Vonnie. Same goes for Evonne. They needed each other like we need air to breathe. I need you to be a good girl for me and take this d… listen! I melted. Yes zaddy. Talk. To. Meeeeee! I really hope these characters dont end with this book. I need a follow up. The proposal, the wedding, them finally having kids of their own. I need it all. Pleaseeee!
Firstly, William had to go. That ma was trash. Filth. Unsupportive and possessive. Marshawn was smitten the second his eyes landed on Vonnie. Same goes for Evonne. They needed each other like we need air to breathe. I need you to be a good girl for me and take this d… listen! I melted. Yes zaddy. Talk. To. Meeeeee! I really hope these characters dont end with this book. I need a follow up. The proposal, the wedding, them finally having kids of their own. I need it all. Pleaseeee!
December 9, 2025
Although the ending seemed rushed, this was a very good book. We went from them spending a week together having fun and hooking up in secret for a couple of nights to all of a sudden him confessing his love on a microphone in front of a room full of people and I’m just not 100% sure how we got there honestly. I feel like the story was very surface-level, we never got too deep into either of the main characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 17, 2025
Talk about an upgrade!!
This was a very good read. Two professionals meeting and falling in love naturally. When someone shows you who they are do not doubt it. The ex was meant to be just that an ex, her ability to walk away to chase her dreams was everything. The doors opened from there because she stayed true to herself and allowed someone to live her for who she was. Thank you, I would love a followup or even stories from other characters.
This was a very good read. Two professionals meeting and falling in love naturally. When someone shows you who they are do not doubt it. The ex was meant to be just that an ex, her ability to walk away to chase her dreams was everything. The doors opened from there because she stayed true to herself and allowed someone to live her for who she was. Thank you, I would love a followup or even stories from other characters.
February 11, 2026
Evonne and Marshawn
TJ be on it with all the feels. This was a great match. I am sure Shawn and Vonnie will pop back up in the next series or so to let us know how things went in Africa and if we have twins or triplets conceived in the motherland. It was awesome to see Vonnie be the one to help Shawn remember that he was still capable of being love and that it’s okay to be Honest and vulnerable together! Xexy short and beautiful. Dance 💃 like no one can see ya!!!!! Love our TJ
TJ be on it with all the feels. This was a great match. I am sure Shawn and Vonnie will pop back up in the next series or so to let us know how things went in Africa and if we have twins or triplets conceived in the motherland. It was awesome to see Vonnie be the one to help Shawn remember that he was still capable of being love and that it’s okay to be Honest and vulnerable together! Xexy short and beautiful. Dance 💃 like no one can see ya!!!!! Love our TJ
October 2, 2025
Shooting for his Heart
So cute. Ms. Tatum never misses. Her characters are so well-written and familiar.
Shawn and Vonnie were so good together. I love a good love-hate relationship because they are always passionate in and out of the bedroom. And even though neither was looking for love, they found it in each other.
Super cute story!!
So cute. Ms. Tatum never misses. Her characters are so well-written and familiar.
Shawn and Vonnie were so good together. I love a good love-hate relationship because they are always passionate in and out of the bedroom. And even though neither was looking for love, they found it in each other.
Super cute story!!
October 9, 2025
A Page Turner
I loved this book from the very first word!! Tatum James is such an amazing author. Of course, this book is another great read added to the collection of her great books. This story was so magically written. Page by page I was all in, and couldn’t stop reading; even to be a responsible adult, Lol. If I could give this book a million stars I would!
I loved this book from the very first word!! Tatum James is such an amazing author. Of course, this book is another great read added to the collection of her great books. This story was so magically written. Page by page I was all in, and couldn’t stop reading; even to be a responsible adult, Lol. If I could give this book a million stars I would!
October 12, 2025
Awesome Read
Vonnie definitely deserved better than William. No man should ever treat a woman as if she's less than his equal. She levelled up. She accepted a job and succeeded at it! She also landed the boss! William lost out! Vonnie is a boss is every sense! Marshawn recognized that, and couldn't let go. Their chemistry was undeniable. Awesome read!
Vonnie definitely deserved better than William. No man should ever treat a woman as if she's less than his equal. She levelled up. She accepted a job and succeeded at it! She also landed the boss! William lost out! Vonnie is a boss is every sense! Marshawn recognized that, and couldn't let go. Their chemistry was undeniable. Awesome read!
October 23, 2025
Oh so good, just wish it was a longer read
Aww, I loved this story! Vonnie was a joy! I loved her independence, how she wasn’t ever afraid of speaking her mind, and of course, her sense of humor. Marshawn was a hard shell on the outside, but a softie in the middle (at least he was for Vonnie). Vonnie knew just how to keep him on his toes.
Aww, I loved this story! Vonnie was a joy! I loved her independence, how she wasn’t ever afraid of speaking her mind, and of course, her sense of humor. Marshawn was a hard shell on the outside, but a softie in the middle (at least he was for Vonnie). Vonnie knew just how to keep him on his toes.
November 3, 2025
Better than expected!!
I'm not sure what I expected going in but I knew it would be good because Tatum James always create masterpieces. This ended up being even better than I could have imagined. The way it fell together was everything and then some!! Continue to create amazing work!!
I'm not sure what I expected going in but I knew it would be good because Tatum James always create masterpieces. This ended up being even better than I could have imagined. The way it fell together was everything and then some!! Continue to create amazing work!!
October 2, 2025
Cute
This was a very cute love story! I swear I don’t know how you pack so much into these books but you do it every single time Miss Tatum James! Anytime I see you name listed I know it’s gonna be a great read!
This was a very cute love story! I swear I don’t know how you pack so much into these books but you do it every single time Miss Tatum James! Anytime I see you name listed I know it’s gonna be a great read!
October 3, 2025
Cute
Thank you Evonne. I am so happy you believed in yourself and took that chance. Never let a man disrespect your passion or you. You your peace in your opportunity and a man that valued you.
Thank you Evonne. I am so happy you believed in yourself and took that chance. Never let a man disrespect your passion or you. You your peace in your opportunity and a man that valued you.
October 4, 2025
Too cute
Vonnie was a character. She had me cracking up. She definitely didn’t hold back. It was so cute though and how she handled MarShawn and broke him down was everything.
Love it.
Vonnie was a character. She had me cracking up. She definitely didn’t hold back. It was so cute though and how she handled MarShawn and broke him down was everything.
Love it.
October 12, 2025
Enjoyed
I enjoyed reading this well written story. With likeable, interesting characters. A storyline that is sweet, a little crazy, and with plenty of laughs. This author delivered a five star read and I definitely enjoy her writing style.
I enjoyed reading this well written story. With likeable, interesting characters. A storyline that is sweet, a little crazy, and with plenty of laughs. This author delivered a five star read and I definitely enjoy her writing style.
October 12, 2025
vonnie
When one door closes another door opens. Vonnie thought she was in love until she realized she wasnt! A new opportunity opened the doors for the world to see her talents and her heart to find that forever love! A great read!
When one door closes another door opens. Vonnie thought she was in love until she realized she wasnt! A new opportunity opened the doors for the world to see her talents and her heart to find that forever love! A great read!
October 18, 2025
Assholes Want Love Too
This was such a great love story. I like that fact that Marshawn took custody of his 2 nephews. His love for Vonnie was evident from the very beginning.
Thanks for keeping it real for us. I hope you continue with this story.
This was such a great love story. I like that fact that Marshawn took custody of his 2 nephews. His love for Vonnie was evident from the very beginning.
Thanks for keeping it real for us. I hope you continue with this story.
October 22, 2025
Flow Was Great!!
Okay Vonnie was a little team too much at times but it worked for Shawn..What I appreciated majorly is not dimming her light for William…A blind man could see her mundane future with him…I love an epilogue and I would have liked a little more….
Okay Vonnie was a little team too much at times but it worked for Shawn..What I appreciated majorly is not dimming her light for William…A blind man could see her mundane future with him…I love an epilogue and I would have liked a little more….
October 6, 2025
Vonnie + Shawn … this story was swoon worthy and had me saying awwwww
October 7, 2025
very cute
I loved Vonnie and Shawn. They supported each other without knowing each other. I like that it was no drama too
I loved Vonnie and Shawn. They supported each other without knowing each other. I like that it was no drama too
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews