Prime: The Banks Empire

by N'Dia Rae

A single mother with a past she can't outrun.
A dangerous man who was never supposed to care.
A love that could destroy them both.

Zahara's only goal is survival. Keep her head down. Protect her son. Stay invisible. But when violence crashes into her carefully rebuilt life, she learns the hard way that survival sometimes looks like a monster in the doorway—one with blue eyes, bloody knuckles, and a vow on his lips.

Prime Banks. Quiet. Lethal. Controlled. And the last man she should ever trust.

But Prime doesn't give her a choice.

He breaks into her apartment with a message from her past. Inserts himself into her life. Protects her son like he's his own. And then he makes one thing

"You're mine to protect. Whether you want me or not."

Zahara needs distance. Prime gives her obsession. She needs safety. He gives her power. She needs to keep her secrets buried. Prime? He's the one man capable of digging them up.

The deeper they fall, the more dangerous their world becomes—crime family politics, old enemies, and the shadows of both their pasts closing in.

And when the truth Zahara's been hiding finally comes out… Prime may become the very threat she feared most—or the only man able to save her.

An explosive, addictive, high-heat urban romantic suspense that will leave you breathless from page one.

Genres: Romance, Urban, Fiction, Crime

394 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 9, 2025

Reviews

[Dominique Love · Rating 3 out of 5]

My thoughts

Ms. Rae, I truly enjoyed the book and story. I don’t think I’ve ever read anything like this before, and 92% comple and I can’t understand for the life of me why Z just couldn’t tell him her secret. That shit really got on my nerves hard. I enjoyed the story tho

[Jahda · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️ wait that twist at the end got me interested in the next book. However idk how I feel about “Zahara” and Prime.

[Slick · Rating 3 out of 5]

eh…

I don’t like cliffhangers first off, but secondly, this book was unnecessarily dragged out. All the excessive monologue thoughts of “they will rue the day” or continuous harping about her secrets just annoyed me. And then….forcing a breakup??? Over panties? Girl really? That man had hid covered two bodies for you and you really up here questioning him??? She PMO. Also I’m a Scorpio so his personality doesn’t necessarily aligns with our traits 100%. We are complicated but we definitely not being vulnerable first. Loyalty off the rip when we’re in love? Yes. Idk, he was a little soft for my liking as a Scorpio. He more so gave Pisces. Also I can’t stand when a character harps on how they know something excessively only to then shuffle their mind ignoring….well obviously if it’s nagging at you DO something. The only reason why it gets a 3/5 is bc of the smut scene. Definitely at the penthouse.

[Renada Boddie · Rating 4 out of 5]

ZAHARA Please!!!!!

Zahara made some of the dumbest decisions.
The lack of communication she had throughout this entire book was frustrating. Prime has all the patience in the world, but she still worked his nerves.

[TheReaderVert · Rating 3 out of 5]

Secrets and lies

I thought this was similar to the King Family Saga, which had a different book focused on a different brother. That's my fault for not checking more into this story.

The book was ok. With secrets, misdirection, mistaken identity, and single mom tropes it had a lot going on but pacing felt off. Getting to the end and realizing it's going to be a continued series that slow pace made a little bit of sense. However, personally, I struggled with rooting for them as a couple or with the intimacy scenes with the FMC withholding large chucks of info. On top of that she would get mad about him and certain situations knowing she's lying to his face about something serious. I don't personally care to read "I love you" when the secret trope is afoot.

The child wasn't horrible and it was nice seeing a young Black boy interested in the arts. Prime is a good character but for a lot of the book it felt like he wasn't really "doing" much. Like he wasn't given a chance to truly shine or love up to hype. However again, realizing this will be a continued series explained why that was so.

All in all, I might not end up back for part 2. There are some strings I'm interested in but the set up for their romance feels faulty and I was over the secrets.

[Trinity]

This was literally a movie , a tubi one , but a movie nonetheless.

I really enjoyed this book and the drama , the writing was very good to me. It wasn’t corny or cringe it was decently paced.

I enjoyed reading Zahara at first, she wasn’t a pushover or too soft . As the story went on I could tell how it was gonna go. To me I felt as though she prioritized Prime more than her son. I mean she saw he was struggling and would just let him tell her to leave it alone…

Speaking of the son , idk how many 12 year olds walking around speaking like that , it would’ve been more believable if he was 15 .

I enjoyed prime real bad, he was great at communication, a provider and for the most part did what he thought was right. But my goodness was he obsessed with Rashid or whatever his name was. It’s so obvious that man is using him and he just too delulu to see it.

The plot twist was clockable to me but it was still fun to read. I mean it’s pretty much hinted at that zahara is hiding a huge secret , I just wish she went about it better , it felt lousy.

Idk if I’m gonna read the next book , the ending felt eh to me. She randomly leaves him and says she can’t trust him after he done buried a body , got her own cooking spot , looked after her kid and constantly put her AND her son first??? Girllll talk about irritated . I’m glad Prime peeped she was on some weird stuff because girl what.

He does allll of that and she believes he won’t be able to handle whatever she got going on that’s top secret? LMAO be serious.

I’m a firm believer that her son did that because she was not prioritizing him lmaooo she was focused on them bills and that mannn. She would see her son black eye and let him play the piano all day like girl what.

Overall a decent fun read ! Great writing.

[Donnesha · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sigh… A unsolved mystery 🙄

Sigh… I really wanted to like this book more, but everyone managed to piss me off for all 374 pages. There were so many unanswered questions and storylines that it became frustrating rather than intriguing.

Prime and his mother, Vivica, for example—he mentions no longer being used by her, and then that entire plotline just disappears. Rashid and his secrets, along with his supposed “sons,” are introduced but never explored, leaving me unsure of where any of that is supposed to lead. And for the life of me, I don’t understand how we go through the entire book without ever knowing why Zahara is running. Or even a slight clue as to why. On top of that, she keeps texting her twin, yet we never see a single response or get any clarity there either. Her sister shows up at her job and then nothing after that…

This book truly had potential, but the excessive mystery felt unnecessary after a while. I understand this is meant to be a buildup for book two, but if book one gives us almost nothing, why would readers feel motivated to continue the series?

At this point, I’m unsure if I’ll continue reading. I may wait to see how many books are planned before committing. Conclusion: read something else until the series is complete, because the cliffhanger was just annoying… 🙄

[Clairminza · Rating 2 out of 5]

Redundant monologue and dialogue. The plot dragged on with no real set up for what I’m assuming is the overarching mystery here. I saw the “secret” coming a mile away, anyone that’s perceptive enough won’t be shocked either. The reveals were underwhelming and anticlimactic and I feel some of the conflicts thrown in here don’t support the story but I also can’t tell you what the plot really is outside the romance

[Bryant G. · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book started off a little slow…almost to the point where I was close to DNFing it. And then it all started hitting me at once, grabbing my full attention and really got me going!! So many of things, so much going on, and so many storylines that I MUST follow up with!! Getting the next book RIGHT NOW, to continue this!!! Fell in love with a few characters, and was hatin’ on others I think! Not trying to be spoiler, but I’m guessing that things ain’t what they seem to be! Anyway, only gave it 4 stars because of the slow beginning…not being cruel, but that part did bug me a bit!! Otherwise, stay tuned, because stuff is getting good!!!

[OnceUponAStorybook · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a wild ride I was not expecting.

Prime has BDE and I was loving every second of it. The way he treated Zahara and her kid was amazing. I loved how he was helping Zahara’s kid learn how to fight so he can stand up to his bullies .

I was shook by the ending was not expecting that plot twist.

[Ayanna First of BourbonStreetBookers · Rating 5 out of 5]

☕️ Whewwww Chileeee

Secret after Secret! But none betta than this.... Sisters, twins, wannabes, lies, drama, crime... it's all here! But family is key! I can't believe I gotta wait... 😭😭😭😩 How dare youuuu! 😂🤣 💚💛💜

[Jimette J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

COULD NOT STOP READING

Prime…the man
His brothers….the other men
Storyline…hot
Family….drama
Whew! So good and ready for the next installment! Mad it’s not one book. Carry on

[Asia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am officially hooked!! Where is part 2?

[Karen M · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so good. I will definitely be reading the whole series.

[Brownskinnedreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love that this is more Mystery/Thriller style Urban Fiction. The story follows Prime and Zahara. Prime is finally stepping away from his criminal background and is looking to settle down. Zahara has been running since she was 16. When Prime shows up to her house as a favor to his old mentor, he gets more than he bargains for.

I love that this book had me guessing and predicting the outcome. I'm glad Book 2 was already out because I started it immediately.

[Kenya Lou⚖️ · Rating 2 out of 5]

I understand you have to string the reader along but I’m really getting tired of the wait to end of the book to drop the secret . There’s a way to wrap a book up and still leave the reader wanting to read more .

[WanDa Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW! Im so anticipating part two! The cliffhanger was the bomb! Prime is another fyne azz Book Bae that you wush you had! I feel so bad for Yusef! So sad he has to go thru this horrible ordeal so young! I don't wanna say no more, because I don't like spoilers! But that secret Zahara had was mind blowing! I can't wait to see how this major issue is gonna be handled!!

[Jackie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dragged and dragged some more

This book just didn’t do it for me. The story dragged and dragged some more. I didn’t connect with Prime or Zahara. Way too many things going on that hasn’t even fully touched on the main storyline, about Zahara’s secret. Not sure I will even read part 2 at this point.

[Alexandria Woods · Rating 4 out of 5]

*****Spoilers*****

This book needs some help with consistency, but despite the issues I still thought it was a great book. I guessed a few of the revelations before they were confirmed by the author, one of which was that Zahara, whose real name is Zainab, was pretending to be her twin sister and that Yusef was her nephew and not her son. The other thing I guessed was that Yusef's friend was the one who was beating him up and bullying him.

When the book opens, we learn that Zahara/Zainab is a single mom living in a small apartment with her son Yusef. They're struggling to make it paycheck to paycheck while Zahara/Zanaib, who didn't graduate from high school works as a waitress at a diner. She doesn't have other prospects because she also doesn't have a GED and it's hinted at repeatedly that she's running from something in her past.

Prime is into criminal things and had done time in prison after murdering his bully when he was 13. Seven years of jail and teachings from his mentor Rashid kept him from unraveling and Prime feels like he owes Rashid who he feels is like a father to him. Prime's mother is the mayor of D.C. and essentially throws him under the bus for political clout, showing she's tough in crime by ensuring Prime is charged as an adult. Never mind that she told him to fight back or else she'd do him worse at home. Needless to say, their relationship isn't the best so when she blackmails him into getting dirt on her husband to keep Rashid out of jail, Prime only agrees to help so that he can keep his mentor free from jail.

Prime and Zahara/Zainab meet because Rashid asks Prime for a favor. The favor is to get Zahara take Yusef to see Rashid's nephew Meech in jail, and to ensure Zahara and Yusef attend Meech's parole hearing and ensure Zahara testifies on Meech's behalf so that Meech gets out. An additional complexity is that Meech is Yusef's father. Prime is nothing if not able to handle his business and is able to convince Zahara to do those 2 things. For the first, Zahara waits in the car during the jail visit when Meech sees his son for the first time after 10 years. The second, Zahara testifies at the parole hearing, but after doing so, Meech realizes that she's really Zainab and NOT his baby momma Zahara. The book then ends.

While Prime is ensuring that Zahara/Zainab is doing the two things Rashid asked him to have her complete, Prime is getting in deep with Zahara/Zainab and Yusef. She and Prime get to the love yous by the end of the book. Throughout, he buys Zahara/Zainab and Yusef much needed groceries, he helps her clean up a body, and helps them conceal that Yusef murdered his supposed best friend who was also his bully. Prime also bought her an industrial kitchen so that Zahara/Zainab could start getting her bakery business off the ground and got her a contract for her baked goods at a big time mayoral catering event. All the while, Zahara/Zainab knew she had this secret. The only thing left is to see how it plays out in the next book.

Without reciting them all, one consistency issue I noticed included a time when Zahara/Zanaib is supposed to be riding on a bus but the book says shortly after that she has her hands on a steering wheel. Another was when Zahara/Zanaib was supposedly in the middle of baking when she just leaves the kitchen with Prime. Nothing is said about the stuff she was making, particularly since she was using the diner after hours and was supposed to clean up before the opening crew got there in the morning. There are more instances but those were a few.

There's really no indication as to why Prime needed to be involved to get dirt on his mom's husband, particularity since his mom is the mayor and I'd figure her reach is good enough for someone to tip off the paparazzi to get cheating photos and to hire someone to dig into his finances. I couldn't understand how someone who is a baker and prepare food for a living, had a whole several hours sexcapade with Prime, at times in the kitchen she's actively using to make her baked goods. Unsanitary and serious baker didn't connect for me when it came to those scenes.

In any case, despite all of the issues, the story was still really good and could've easily been 5 stars for me if not for the things I mention above.

[Leelo · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 ⭐️ ‘s. This was an easy read, which I overall enjoyed.

This book was very repetitive and redundant. Not enough research went into this book with the murders and covering tracks. There were a lot of unanswered questions and missing details. This part of the story was sloppy to me.

Zahara was not an attentive mother. She didn’t have any food in the house but sugary breakfast foods. Her son regularly gets beat up and robbed. She talks to the school and principal, makes a lot of threats, but doesn’t actually follow through with making things better for him. Her son starts to shut down and carries a heavy load of what’s going on at school, but she does not try to get through to him or help him. She just lets him be alone and play his piano. She gives him $800 for music camp, knowing he gets beat up and robbed regularly. She could have taken the money to the school, or walking him to school. She has days off. She doesn’t try to teach him to defend himself. When Prime offers to teach him boxing, she doesn’t want to allow him to learn to defend himself. She says she doesn’t know Prime, yet she sends her son into the prison with him, which he is a stranger, while she sits on the car. She prioritizes Prime more than her son. Prime is open and honest with her, yet she keeps holding a secret that isn’t that huge. I guessed the secret very early on. Zahara blows up at Prime for something small that could have been easily resolved. Mmc showed fmc that she could trust him over and over again.

There was not enough conveyed to the reader why Prime chose Zahara as “the one”. Nothing about her was that special. She was a mediocre heroine and a lackluster mother that put everything else ahead of her son. She chose to be bullied and sexually harassed by her boss instead of finding better employment. She had many options available to her.

There were a lot of tropes going on in this book. Lots of drama but no resolution or explanation. No plot. I could go on and on about Prime’s character and his relationship with his siblings and mother. Prime in the beginning of the book is very different than the end of the book. It was not character development but more like the author lost track of his personality, traits, values, and background while she was writing all the other unnecessary drama (like the unnecessary murders).

I do not think I will continue this series. Book 2 & 3 are a little over 400 pages each. This series could be told in less than 1200 pages, with no cliffhangers.

[Bookzamillionpt2cuzilost · Rating 3.5 out of 5]

⭐ 3.5/5 Stars — Prime: The Banks Empire by N’Dia Rae

FIRST OF ALL!!! Can we talk about how Goodreads FINALLY gave us half stars?! 😂👏🏽 Because THANK YOU! Now I can rate these books how I actually want to instead of rounding up and then having to explain myself in the review! 😩

Now, on to this book…

I gave it 3.5 stars for the storyline and the storyline ALONE! That’s it. That’s the review. 😂 Just kidding, y’all know I have more to say.

The plot was GOOD! Like, genuinely good. The story had everything it needed to be a five-star read. BUTTTT… the writing is where we started losing stars.

Listen, I have nothing against authors using AI to assist with writing. Do your thing! But I do think a little more originality and a little less AI-style dramatics would have taken this book from decent to AMAZING.

Because WHY does every single chapter have to feel like we’re on an emotional roller coaster?! 😭 Everybody’s breathing is hitching, somebody’s jaw is tightening, the tension is thick enough to cut with a knife, and every little interaction feels like it’s supposed to be the most earth-shattering moment in literary history. MA’AM, CAN WE JUST HAVE A NORMAL CONVERSATION?! 😂

And don’t even get me started on using 47 words to say something that could’ve been said in 10! Saying the SAME thing three different ways back-to-back doesn’t make it more profound! Sometimes it works. But when it happens over and over and OVER again, it becomes exhausting.

I found myself doing something I hate doing when reading… SKIPPING TO THE GOOD PARTS! 😩 And that’s usually a sign that the writing is getting in the way of the story.

Now, is this the worst book I’ve read that felt AI-assisted? Absolutely NOT! Not even close. And I can’t say for certain how it was written, but it definitely had those repetitive, overly dramatic patterns that I’ve come to associate with AI-assisted writing.

The storyline really did carry this book, and I enjoyed it enough to give it credit where credit is due. I just wish the execution had matched the potential.

So 3.5 stars it is! ⭐⭐⭐½

And thank goodness for these new half-star ratings because before, I would’ve had to give this book four stars and then write a whole paragraph explaining why it was actually a 3.5. 😂

Look at Goodreads making my reviewing life easier! 😬📚

[Naturallywoo · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

I’ve returned to the King Family drama series, however its the Banks' side of the family saga that got me twisted.

Prime: The Banks Empire i finished late last night as I swiped to the last page I eagerly race toward Prime II to find out what happens next.

The series—part of the N’Dia Rae universe—delves into the intense drama and trauma that Black families face, both inside and outside the home. Yusef’s journey is especially poignant; I’m praying he finds peace and balance despite childhood’s rapid passage. He’s a good kid who deserves better than becoming a statistic, even though, at this point in the story, he is one.

The twin sisters carry the weight of growing up too fast to survive and cope with death—especially when grief falls on a 9-year-old who must witness and endure so much. The choice to protect a nephew and take over their sister identity, whom they’ve lost, feel understandable given the circumstances. I’m rooting for Zahara/Zainab and their dream SweetZin to achieve success, convinced that the past trauma won’t stop her because Prime’s unwavering love and dedication—to protect Yusef and her—are powerful and convincing.

Prime himself is a compelling figure: a man who has endured his own trauma and emerged stronger, yet still radiates love, loyalty, discipline, respect, and strength. His declarations feel trustworthy, and you’re drawn to believe him when he speaks.

I’ll admit my early reviews of the author weren’t kind, but she pressed on, and her writing has steadily improved. The way she unfolds the plot—rich with detailed scenery and a taut, edge-of-your-seat atmosphere—is impressive. You’ve converted me into a fan, and I’m excited to see how the story concludes and what other corners of your catalog I’ll explore. Fellow readers, if you start from where I did, persevere through the journey; it only gets more engaging.

Overall rating: 3.5 stars.

[Yvonne Daniels · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh This is Absolutely Fantastic

OMG! What a explosive story!!! I am absolutely floored. The characters are so real and this book has so many surprises, Prentice aka ( Prime) and Zahara has so much chemistry its like instant attraction. I am totally glued to these pages, I wasn't prepared for a love story like this one so filled with drama, revenge, intrigue and twists and turns, Prime is handsome and is a totally control man that's been in prison but learn and used the lessons taught to him which some may think this makes him cold blooded but when the right woman comes along he wants to protect, take care and love her. Zahara is a single mom that's beautiful with a young son and a lot of secrets, Yusef’s her son twelve years of life has been hard, there's so many secrets he has carried that would make a man three times his age stumble but he has a lot strength for someone who is so young.This is an enthralling tale of love, loyalty, and danger that kept me hooked from start to finish, the story has its on style with a dangerous backdrop, it explores what it truly means to love but unable to trust at least at the beginning, all while navigating a world filled with power plays and high-stakes tension. The story masterfully balances intense drama with tender moments, but creating something that's both gritty and deeply emotional. These characters are complex, their connections are raw and heartfelt, while making their journey all the more captivating and intriguing, but please you must not mind a cliffhanger with a twist of intrigue, its a start of a must-read that will leave you longing for more I just have to say I really enjoyed every moment of this book, which I highly recommend and I'm extremely excited about the next book in this series HAPPY READING!!

[Diamond D · Rating 4 out of 5]

🖤💸 “This Cliffhanger Has Me in a CHOKEHOLD” 💸🖤

I really enjoyed this book and I’m giving it a solid 4.5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ First things first: this is book one in a trilogy, and trust me… that cliffhanger?? 😮‍💨 Yeah, I’m already emotionally preparing myself for the next book.

What I loved most about Prime is that he moved in the shadows. He stayed low-profile, stacked his money quietly, and handled his demons on his own instead of taking them out on everybody around him. 🖤 He wasn’t out searching for love either, which made the romance feel more natural when Zahara came into the picture because of a favor he owed.

And can we talk about Zahara Ali for a second? 🌹 First of all, her NAME alone is gorgeous. I really liked her energy in this story, especially paired against someone like Prime who lives by loyalty above everything else. His loyalty to Rashad is what ultimately connects him to Zahara, and that dynamic kept me invested the entire time.

Now listen… I’m usually not an enemies-to-lovers girl 👀 but I actually think this author handled the trope really well. They didn’t like each other, sure, but it never felt unnecessarily cruel or toxic just for drama. Prime wasn’t out trying to hurt her “just because,” and I appreciated that balance.

Also, I saw people complaining about the repeated dialogue and the drawn-out spicy scenes, and honestly? I didn’t mind either one. 🤷🏽‍♀️ The repeated dialogue emphasized important moments, and as for the spice… some of us LIKE long scenes okay?? 😭🔥 I thought they were good.

And for the people confused about why Prime’s billionaire grandmother couldn’t get him out of jail… reading is fundamental, babes 📚😂 It was explained through his mother’s situation if you’re actually paying attention.

[Jamie Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me locked in from start to finish. The storyline was engaging, the pacing was solid, and there was always something happening that kept me turning the page. I didn’t feel like anything was thrown in just for chaos. It all tied together well, and I stayed invested the entire time. Zainab (Zahara) definitely tested my patience. She had moments where I was like girl… stand up. But I will give her credit because she pulled it together and redeemed herself towards the end, even though she almost fumbled something good by letting outside interference get in her head.
Farah got on my nerves BAD. Her behavior didn’t feel justified at all. Prime was honest and upfront with her from the beginning, so the obsession and the move she made later on just felt like unnecessary sabotage. It didn’t come from a place of confusion, it came from entitlement. Speaking of Prime… he showed up consistently. I can appreciate a male lead who is clear about what he wants and doesn’t play games. Now Prime’s mama? Yeah… she’s a whole issue. Her behavior throughout the book was frustrating, and I’m going to leave it at that. I also noticed a few characters introduced that didn’t get much development, so I’m assuming this is setting things up for the rest of the series. Overall, this was a really strong read. I was entertained, invested, and immediately ready to jump into the next book to see how everything plays out.

[She Reads What She Wants · Rating 4 out of 5]

So after I finished Cannon, Kindle Unlimited slid this one across my screen like it knew me… and honestly? The cover alone had me clicking download. I mean, have you SEEN him? I’m just saying. 😌

But let’s talk about Prime.

This man entered the story with nothing but pent-up energy. Quiet. Calculated. Moving in the shadows, stackin money, and keepin his demons tucked away where nobody could see them. He wasn’t looking for distractions. He wasn’t looking for love. He was focused.

Until one “simple” favor for the man who raised him shifts his entire life. And when I say that one decision ripples out across three books? Baby. Buckle up.

And then there’s Zahara Ali.

Single mother. Hard-working. Carrying secrets. Pain sitting heavy behind her eyes. She wasn’t some random fling she was layered. And watching Prime slowly shift as he got pulled into her orbit? That part had me locked in.

I was completely invested in how they moved, how they learned each other, how they tried to balance attraction with all the baggage they both carried.

But that ending?

That ENTIRE ending took me out. I had no choice but to sprint to Book 2 because I absolutely needed to see how Prime was going to handle this new development. No sleep. No hesitation. Just straight into the next one.

If you like powerful men and plot twists that leave you staring at the wall for a minute? Yeah… start this series. 🔥📚

[Devyn Pannell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Eh. I want to go ahead and warn for spoilers as I do not feel it is necessary for me to block them out. Read at your own risk.

DOES EVERYONE IN THIS BOOK HAVE MURDER ON THEIR MIND? I MEAN C'MON, WHAT EXACTLY IS HAPPENING HERE? Everyone knows urban fiction is the fuel that keeps me going BUT this? THIS book is exactly what I've been harping on since I started this.
Urban fiction with waaaaay too much meat and unnecessary scenes that go off the deep end. When there is too much happening the writer loses control. I felt like she lost control.

Tell me that you ended every chapter hinting a cliff hanger without really telling me. The idea of this huge secret loomed over the readers head for far too long.

Also this went from slow burn to highly accelerated in the matter of one chapter. Prime and "Zahara" did not exhibit much chemistry in my opinion and the spicy scenes were cringe. I thought I'd NEVER say that. It's always apparent when a writer doesn't really know when to fit the scene into the story.

Let's talk positive, I LOVE READING ABOUT SINGLE MOMS. It gets me going and "Zahara" loved Yusef down. The parallel time lines between Prime and Yusef were beautifully written as well.

In conclusion, too much meat caused the demise of the romance plot. 3 stars. For Yusef.

[Kyla Hurns · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing! Honestly, I love N'dia Rae and this was such a good and unique trope. Prime was the definition of a true man, and I honestly loved that they started off hating each other but we could feel the tension from the beginning. I honestly feel like I should've seen the twist coming because there were def signs (but maybe I am just gullible). But I can't remember the last time a plot twist/cliff hanger had me that shook, literally screamed out loud.

Prime's backstory framed up with the son's story was beautiful and honestly one of my favorite parts of the book. Now Prim's momma is actually insane, and I did find it weird that the brothers wanted him to work with her so bad knowing the messed-up stuff that she put him through, didn't make sense to me.

Zahara, while I loved her, she definitely pissed me off because she wouldn't just tell that damn secret, especially the way it set up the reveal. It didn't make sense to me that she wouldn't say ANYTHING before going to court just didn't line up to me. I also didn't expect a cliff hanger but very curious on where everyone will end up especially the son after what happened with him and his friend. Overall, I really enjoyed it and can't wait to see what happens in book 2!


Hitman X Single Mom

[Pillar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oooh, Im tired and sick....

Ok, let me just say #1. I dont want none of those Cinnamon rolls that came out of the "Grits" kitchen after the 2nd batch. When you read it, you will know exactly why I said what I said. It's borderline giving Arianna Grande donut licking. That batch needs to be trashed. 🤣 Anyhoo, this is Cannon's brother, okayyyyyy!!!! Them Kings and Banks brothers Geezus!!! Ok, so this is not in any order. Larry got what he got. Vivica is a piece of work and trash of a mother. "Serenity," spoiled lil sis gurl shut up all the crying over that trash husband. But Zahara was the pain in my ass. Omg! She got on my fucking nerves and I knew something was off cause she kept texting her sister and her sister never responded but the pieces of the puzzle came together at the hearing. "Prime" all that he went through and carried on his shoulders her took down his walls for you, and wanted nobody but you. Sahara' ass was too damn stubborn, and Yusef that baby is carrying the weight of the world with secrets and the grief. This book was very, very good. I can't wait to find out what the hell is going on with her and the sister and the secrets she holds in part 2.

[Champella Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Closed the Book Side Eyeing My Screen

This book had me hooked from page one. The tension, the danger, the slow burn, all of it was done so well. Zahara is a strong, layered character who is just trying to survive and protect her son, and Prime is intense, controlled, and dangerous in a way that keeps you on edge. Their connection is messy, passionate, and full of emotional pull. I loved how protective he was, especially when it came to her son. That part really got me.

The drama was nonstop. Just when you think things might calm down, something else explodes. The secrets, the past, the crime family energy, and the constant feeling that something bad is coming made this impossible to put down. I found myself holding my breath through several scenes.

The ending left me staring at my screen like “that’s it?” in the best and worst way. I need answers. I need closure. I need part two immediately because the suspense is unreal.

If you love high heat urban romance with danger, obsession, emotional depth, and drama that keeps you turning pages, this book is definitely for you. I am locked in and ready for whatever comes next.