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Heightened Assurance
What happens when you spend more time in the past than the present? You lose sight of the present as well as those in it. Oden West is damaged, carrying around guilt and demons from a past that never quite fit him. He wasn’t aware of that though, not until it was too late and he couldn’t change what happened. All he could do was forge forward, but even that was too much as he deserted the one person who meant the world to him. Now he’s back, putting together the life it only took him seconds to dismantle.
Of course he isn’t looking for love, but in the blink of an eye, in a crowded restaurant, he locks eyes with home. Home is not a person but instead a location inside a woman he’s encountered before.
Jade has seemingly given up on love. Every single time she has given it a chance, she ends up losing. If there was a picture of heartbreak in the dictionary, there would be Jade standing, holding up the deuces. Love has just never been her game, so instead she put her passion into her business, finding it much easier than planning a family she probably wouldn’t get. That is, until the date from hell lands her in the sight of a wounded chef carrying his guilt as an appetizer. Jade has her own baggage though, and despite a couple of brothers who believe they know what’s best for her, she catches quite a few eyes.
Can a chef hell bent on carrying the past finally find his future with a soul so beautiful she’s being stalked? Can he make amends and repair his relationship with the person he loves the most or will stepping into the present be too much for him?
Universe Book 3: Oden’s story.
Of course he isn’t looking for love, but in the blink of an eye, in a crowded restaurant, he locks eyes with home. Home is not a person but instead a location inside a woman he’s encountered before.
Jade has seemingly given up on love. Every single time she has given it a chance, she ends up losing. If there was a picture of heartbreak in the dictionary, there would be Jade standing, holding up the deuces. Love has just never been her game, so instead she put her passion into her business, finding it much easier than planning a family she probably wouldn’t get. That is, until the date from hell lands her in the sight of a wounded chef carrying his guilt as an appetizer. Jade has her own baggage though, and despite a couple of brothers who believe they know what’s best for her, she catches quite a few eyes.
Can a chef hell bent on carrying the past finally find his future with a soul so beautiful she’s being stalked? Can he make amends and repair his relationship with the person he loves the most or will stepping into the present be too much for him?
Universe Book 3: Oden’s story.
219 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 13, 2025
137 people are currently reading
76 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
October 14, 2025
Oden and Jade
Mysterious Chef and Sexy Lumberjack whew, this one pulled me right in! Oden was carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders, drowning in guilt he didn’t even need to carry. I loved how Jade didn’t fold she made him open up and face those emotions. They were so cute together, and the ongoing fussing about Aja and Sebastian had me cracking up. It’s refreshing to read about brothers who are protective but not overbearing. Jade’s brothers trusted her judgment and never came off rude or controlling, even with Oden being a close family friend. I also loved how Aja communicated so well such a grounded little girl. I can’t help but wonder if we’ll ever get a story when she’s older… and if she’ll ever learn the truth about her mom. Jade and Harlem are such beautiful examples for her to grow up around.
Mysterious Chef and Sexy Lumberjack whew, this one pulled me right in! Oden was carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders, drowning in guilt he didn’t even need to carry. I loved how Jade didn’t fold she made him open up and face those emotions. They were so cute together, and the ongoing fussing about Aja and Sebastian had me cracking up. It’s refreshing to read about brothers who are protective but not overbearing. Jade’s brothers trusted her judgment and never came off rude or controlling, even with Oden being a close family friend. I also loved how Aja communicated so well such a grounded little girl. I can’t help but wonder if we’ll ever get a story when she’s older… and if she’ll ever learn the truth about her mom. Jade and Harlem are such beautiful examples for her to grow up around.
January 28, 2026
Interesting
The couples in the stories are almost too toxic and also truly head-shaking interesting. I cannot imagine for one second
being in a relationship with any of these guys. Lol.
The couples in the stories are almost too toxic and also truly head-shaking interesting. I cannot imagine for one second
being in a relationship with any of these guys. Lol.
October 14, 2025
Beautiful journey to love!!!!!!!!!!
Oden and Jade!!!!!! Oden was a broken soul, punishing himself for a past mistake that didn’t deserve his attention. But one night, eye contact with one woman was all he needed to awaken his heart again. The way Jade affirmed him and loved just as much as he wanted to protect her and loved her. It was a beautiful story if you know Oden’s background he deserved every bit of happiness. The twins are back with the comedy especially that darn Reminisce. Another great read by Kennedy B. as always.
Oden and Jade!!!!!! Oden was a broken soul, punishing himself for a past mistake that didn’t deserve his attention. But one night, eye contact with one woman was all he needed to awaken his heart again. The way Jade affirmed him and loved just as much as he wanted to protect her and loved her. It was a beautiful story if you know Oden’s background he deserved every bit of happiness. The twins are back with the comedy especially that darn Reminisce. Another great read by Kennedy B. as always.
October 24, 2025
Listen... I was skeptical at first. But I should know by now that Ms. Kennedy B don't disappoint. My favorite think about her books is she takes on the journey of them falling in love. I love that it doesn't take 400 chapters for them to realize they even like each other.
Anyway Oden....Mr. Quiet but deadly. I understand now why he had to leave Aja. The guilt of accidently hurting someone you love. But it was either kill or be killed....in his own home. Ashley deserved to die. Oden came back stronger and ready to love a real one. The cooking and him feeding her (swoon) was Chef's kiss. lol
Jade was a boss on her own. She worked hard and was open to love. She was so sweet and had to stand her ground with those brothers. Jade loved her some food and found a man that was a gourmet chef.
I loved seeing Kinga, Rennix, Remy and G.
Anyway Oden....Mr. Quiet but deadly. I understand now why he had to leave Aja. The guilt of accidently hurting someone you love. But it was either kill or be killed....in his own home. Ashley deserved to die. Oden came back stronger and ready to love a real one. The cooking and him feeding her (swoon) was Chef's kiss. lol
Jade was a boss on her own. She worked hard and was open to love. She was so sweet and had to stand her ground with those brothers. Jade loved her some food and found a man that was a gourmet chef.
I loved seeing Kinga, Rennix, Remy and G.
October 19, 2025
A redemption arc! Glad Oden got his HEA 🥰
October 16, 2025
(3.5⭐️) I was very interested in reading Oden’s perspective after his disappearing act in Kinga’s book. I will say this book did change my viewpoint of him (in a positive way), though I did wish we were able to dive a bit more into what all he learned about himself from his time away. He and Jade connected instantly and I loved their quick but solid romance. There was no drama between them, he showed up for her when she couldn’t show up for herself, and she helped to release him from some of the guilt he felt. I was worried that her brothers would show off when they found out she was connected to him, but nope, “he treating you good, then we’re good” and I loved that for everyone. I do think the storyline with her …”admirer” was a bit predictable & anticlimactic. I also don’t like books with no epilogues. But I look forward to hopefully more glimpses of them in what I’m assuming will be Reminisce’s book next.
October 29, 2025
A much needed healing…
Oden is still struggling over the loss of his wife. He still replays that day in his head. Trying to come to grips with how he can be a father to his daughter when he blames himself for her growing up motherless.
Until one day he catches the eyes of Jade from across the room and immediately his soul takes rest from the constant anguish he feels.
Jade is a soothing balm. Her voice settles him when all he wants to do is scream. He has no clue if he can offer her anything, but quickly Jade shows him he is worthy of being loved correctly. That his daughter deserves him anyway and that he is the ultimate protector.
A good read.
Oden is still struggling over the loss of his wife. He still replays that day in his head. Trying to come to grips with how he can be a father to his daughter when he blames himself for her growing up motherless.
Until one day he catches the eyes of Jade from across the room and immediately his soul takes rest from the constant anguish he feels.
Jade is a soothing balm. Her voice settles him when all he wants to do is scream. He has no clue if he can offer her anything, but quickly Jade shows him he is worthy of being loved correctly. That his daughter deserves him anyway and that he is the ultimate protector.
A good read.
November 17, 2025
What no law & no order in Oden’s world 🥴🤦🏾♀️⁉️Unless there’s more context to Oden’s story (not already mentioned), and yes he should be tortured, tormented, depressed & a loner🥴‼️A double homicide typically invokes paranoia tendencies …Meanwhile, ”Heighten Assurance” was a mediocre read. More so, the basis was a lie, it was entirely too long, peculiar & fundamentally criminal with a delusional pipe dream to a HEA. Jade 🙄👀, Really, you can’t be that desperate for a man⁉️You are now indefinitely complicit by association to Oden‼️Remember: everything good to ya, ain’t good for ya🤷🏾♀️‼️She’ll learn the hard way.
October 21, 2025
I love their relationships
Every relationship in this book had me smiling. It didn’t matter if it was Odens relationship with Jade or his brothers or even her brothers, I was smiling at every interaction between these characters. All of them had me wishing I had brothers like this. I can’t wait to read Rems story and if they ever tell Indiri that he’s also their brother. Kennedy makes these characters so likable that you feel like you know them or wish you did. I’m looking forward to the next book
Every relationship in this book had me smiling. It didn’t matter if it was Odens relationship with Jade or his brothers or even her brothers, I was smiling at every interaction between these characters. All of them had me wishing I had brothers like this. I can’t wait to read Rems story and if they ever tell Indiri that he’s also their brother. Kennedy makes these characters so likable that you feel like you know them or wish you did. I’m looking forward to the next book
October 25, 2025
Kinga is still the goat.....
When that man unalived that man I cackled.....I can't wait to see more of Wiley and I'm sure we will since Rem and Karim's story is next! Not gonna hold you Jade was lowkey on my nerves with keeping the stalking a secret as if she doesn't have an entire army behind her like ma'am please tell these men so they can unalive him already. ODEN, the wood chopping, wood slanging man you are he's definitely book Bae 😍! As always Kennedy's pen is undefeated, and I cannot wait to see what's next!
When that man unalived that man I cackled.....I can't wait to see more of Wiley and I'm sure we will since Rem and Karim's story is next! Not gonna hold you Jade was lowkey on my nerves with keeping the stalking a secret as if she doesn't have an entire army behind her like ma'am please tell these men so they can unalive him already. ODEN, the wood chopping, wood slanging man you are he's definitely book Bae 😍! As always Kennedy's pen is undefeated, and I cannot wait to see what's next!
October 15, 2025
Heightened Assurance
Oden, what can I say. Fine, protective, a chef, brooding, and sweet. He is laid-back and mildly mannered compared to his brother.
Oden didn't know if he would ever find love or feel whole again. Seeing Jade at his restaurant changed that. She brought him back to life, and he became a better father.
Beautiful story of second chances and learning to love again.
Oden, what can I say. Fine, protective, a chef, brooding, and sweet. He is laid-back and mildly mannered compared to his brother.
Oden didn't know if he would ever find love or feel whole again. Seeing Jade at his restaurant changed that. She brought him back to life, and he became a better father.
Beautiful story of second chances and learning to love again.
December 1, 2025
Love
Jade and Orion were a great couple.
When you find your true love,you can let it go. I was so glad Orion was able to let the hurt go to be a father and live on hos woman.
Jade was too kind. I am glad she had her brothers and man in her life. They were there to know when things weren't right.
It was beautiful how Jade and Orion were loving on Orion daughter. You dont see that always in a relationship
Jade and Orion were a great couple.
When you find your true love,you can let it go. I was so glad Orion was able to let the hurt go to be a father and live on hos woman.
Jade was too kind. I am glad she had her brothers and man in her life. They were there to know when things weren't right.
It was beautiful how Jade and Orion were loving on Orion daughter. You dont see that always in a relationship
February 1, 2026
nice very nice
Omg this sibling standalone is so lit. It always a say u never knew what u had until it’s gone. I’m glad two people with a messed up pass became as one. I’m glad they got her stalker. I’m ready to read the next sibling book. U did good on yet another book and I’m looking forward to reading more of them. Sitting here patting my feet while sipping on Pepsi and eating popcorn while waiting on the next book to read
Omg this sibling standalone is so lit. It always a say u never knew what u had until it’s gone. I’m glad two people with a messed up pass became as one. I’m glad they got her stalker. I’m ready to read the next sibling book. U did good on yet another book and I’m looking forward to reading more of them. Sitting here patting my feet while sipping on Pepsi and eating popcorn while waiting on the next book to read
October 15, 2025
So good!!
I knew Oden’s story would be everything!! I loved how they both were what each other needed. Oden had issues but he stepped majorly for Jade.
While Jade healed and nurtured him back with love.
Aja’s acceptance and love for Jade only added to the cuteness that their story had.
10/10 Highly recommended!!!
I knew Oden’s story would be everything!! I loved how they both were what each other needed. Oden had issues but he stepped majorly for Jade.
While Jade healed and nurtured him back with love.
Aja’s acceptance and love for Jade only added to the cuteness that their story had.
10/10 Highly recommended!!!
January 7, 2026
Oden & Jade
You sure know how to write some MMCs. Kinga was my first book in your universe and I was not disappointed with Oden’s story at all. I felt so bad for him knowing he was going through allllat with ol’ girl before. I’m glad he got his hea for the most part.
Jade was so sweet and yes, a chef bae… I want one too lol
You sure know how to write some MMCs. Kinga was my first book in your universe and I was not disappointed with Oden’s story at all. I felt so bad for him knowing he was going through allllat with ol’ girl before. I’m glad he got his hea for the most part.
Jade was so sweet and yes, a chef bae… I want one too lol
October 14, 2025
🥰🥰🥰
I just over this interconnected world so much! I had already knew when Kinga agreed to ride that his silly self was going to do some off the wall ish lol. Please let Rem have next 😩🥺🙏🏽
I just over this interconnected world so much! I had already knew when Kinga agreed to ride that his silly self was going to do some off the wall ish lol. Please let Rem have next 😩🥺🙏🏽
October 15, 2025
Redemption of Oden!
This book was so well written! I started this book mad at Oden due to the previous books and his choices but I will say he was redeemed in this book. I love the relationship between the two main characters and Jades honesty.
This book was so well written! I started this book mad at Oden due to the previous books and his choices but I will say he was redeemed in this book. I love the relationship between the two main characters and Jades honesty.
November 11, 2025
love the siblings!
My favorite moments were when Jade or Oden were with/talking to their siblings. The cutaways didn’t make sense the way they were done and the situation with Ant was anticlimactic. I was hoping for more confrontation. Overall this was a great read
My favorite moments were when Jade or Oden were with/talking to their siblings. The cutaways didn’t make sense the way they were done and the situation with Ant was anticlimactic. I was hoping for more confrontation. Overall this was a great read
October 15, 2025
Great Story
This was a nice ending to the series for now as you stated. I'm looking forward to what comes next. This story was everything and I loved every part of it.
This was a nice ending to the series for now as you stated. I'm looking forward to what comes next. This story was everything and I loved every part of it.
October 15, 2025
Oden!!!!
Oden is my favorite in the series so far. We met him at his lowest in Kinga’s book, so it was good to finally see him find the love he deserves.
Oden is my favorite in the series so far. We met him at his lowest in Kinga’s book, so it was good to finally see him find the love he deserves.
October 16, 2025
ohhh Oden
I just want to give Oden a hug. Him and Jade were so stinking cute together. Oden may have took over the number one spot
I just want to give Oden a hug. Him and Jade were so stinking cute together. Oden may have took over the number one spot
October 18, 2025
A New Beginning
Why did Kennedy end this book the way that she did. I need a few more chapters because... I did enjoy the new love of Oden and Jade.
Why did Kennedy end this book the way that she did. I need a few more chapters because... I did enjoy the new love of Oden and Jade.
October 20, 2025
3.5, not my favorite from this universe. I liked them for each other but i just didn’t get the feels i wanted. And everything seemed so predictable.
October 20, 2025
ok read
This installment was just ok. However, I’m glad Oden got his HEA. It took me a while to get through this one compared to the other ones
This installment was just ok. However, I’m glad Oden got his HEA. It took me a while to get through this one compared to the other ones
October 22, 2025
Oden & Jade
Omg this was just so ….. EVERYTHING! I loved loved loved this story! I feel like the layers just keep getting deeper and deeper. I wonder who’s next?!
Omg this was just so ….. EVERYTHING! I loved loved loved this story! I feel like the layers just keep getting deeper and deeper. I wonder who’s next?!
October 26, 2025
3.75⭐️
December 10, 2025
If you didn't need assurance
This book was a good read, I like the way Oden stepped up to love and protect Jade, and vice versa!!!
This book was a good read, I like the way Oden stepped up to love and protect Jade, and vice versa!!!
November 17, 2025
The story of Oden and Jade touched me. There is so much in Oden that he struggles with but with Jade it is like he comes into the light. Together they are beautiful together. The sub plot with his daughter and her stalker added depth to the story. Great read.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews