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Chosen By A Certified Crashout: An Unhinged Urban Standalone
Rahdreka Lombardo
Being in love with the same man my entire life has been a blessing wrapped in a curse. Our love shaped me, scarred me, and molded my heart to beat like his. Loving Xyleek Chambers meant a deep level of passion, protection, obsession, and danger all wrapped together tightly. I’ve tried to escape and outgrow him, but some loves just don’t die. They simply wait. And when they come back for you, they come back to collect everything, with or without your permission.
Xyleek Chambers
Being with Drek was never a choice, it was a life sentence that I gladly accepted and intended to serve every day of it. I go hard with everything in my life, to include loving her, and I’ll never apologize for it. Every move I’ve made, every lung I’ve taken air from and every line I’ve crossed was done with her in mind. She can fake like she belongs to someone else all she wants, but Drek is my beginning and end. And whatever it takes to keep her, I’ll do it with a smile on my face.
Being in love with the same man my entire life has been a blessing wrapped in a curse. Our love shaped me, scarred me, and molded my heart to beat like his. Loving Xyleek Chambers meant a deep level of passion, protection, obsession, and danger all wrapped together tightly. I’ve tried to escape and outgrow him, but some loves just don’t die. They simply wait. And when they come back for you, they come back to collect everything, with or without your permission.
Xyleek Chambers
Being with Drek was never a choice, it was a life sentence that I gladly accepted and intended to serve every day of it. I go hard with everything in my life, to include loving her, and I’ll never apologize for it. Every move I’ve made, every lung I’ve taken air from and every line I’ve crossed was done with her in mind. She can fake like she belongs to someone else all she wants, but Drek is my beginning and end. And whatever it takes to keep her, I’ll do it with a smile on my face.
210 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 29, 2025
275 people are currently reading
30 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
January 25, 2026
Not a Fan
I usually like Shari's books and her MMC's, while always unhinged, are typically faithful and do not play about their women. This MC Xyleek though, made me sick and I didn't like him at all. Chance after chance he messed up, cheated, lied, repeat. By almost 40% of the book with the same foolery between him and Drek, I was ready to DNF. I stuck with it but started skimming instead of being fully engaged and sadly the story never got better for me. This storyline was too messy and immature to enjoy as were these characters. Neither had any real redeeming qualities despite the author trying hard to make us see the good in them
I usually like Shari's books and her MMC's, while always unhinged, are typically faithful and do not play about their women. This MC Xyleek though, made me sick and I didn't like him at all. Chance after chance he messed up, cheated, lied, repeat. By almost 40% of the book with the same foolery between him and Drek, I was ready to DNF. I stuck with it but started skimming instead of being fully engaged and sadly the story never got better for me. This storyline was too messy and immature to enjoy as were these characters. Neither had any real redeeming qualities despite the author trying hard to make us see the good in them
February 25, 2026
This book did not do it for me. He really wasn’t a crashout. I feel like all this book did was romanticize a toxic ass relationship. Yes that’s what you get a lot of times in urban fiction. I definitely don’t like the miscommunication trope and the spice was a 1/10 for me.
January 11, 2026
Wow Shari, how did you manage to make me feel sympathy for a cheater because I really dislike cheaters. I mean the cheating happened off page and was more talked about than shown, but Xy did cheat on page at least once despite trying to deny it. He and Drek were already back together, so there’s no way around that.
I do think the story would’ve had more depth if some of Xy and Drek’s relationship issues were actually shown on page instead of summarized. Like Gabraie. She’s introduced as someone he’s supposedly involved with, but we never experience that relationship. The first time we really see her, he’s ending it with her, and then she suddenly turns around and destroys Drek’s business. It was abrupt and out of place because we never got the buildup to justify that level of reaction.
One thing I did love was Drek’s support system. Ken and Rae balanced each other perfectly. Ken was the blunt friend who said what needed to be said, even when she was doing too much. Rae was the opposite, the “if you like it, I love it” friend who let Drek move at her own pace. Drek’s parents were also refreshing. They didn’t give terrible advice or try to control her. They spoke their piece and still respected her as a grown woman who could make her own decisions.
Drek and Xy were soul tied. That was her twin flame, and it was obvious he was never going to fully let her go. And Xy! She agreed to that Bentley in the heat of the moment, not motherhood, stop playing with sis!
Drek was emotionally dependent on Xy. They grew up together, so her identity was tied to him in ways she didn’t even realize until she tried to leave. When your entire sense of self is built alongside one person, separation doesn’t feel freeing, it feels disorienting. That doesn’t make it healthy, but it does make it understandable.
As for Gabraie and her sister, their deaths didn’t land for me at all because they happened off page. If I didn’t experience it as a reader, it didn’t hit emotionally. It was written, not felt, and again lacked depth.
The story had strong concepts and characters, but it needed more showing and less telling, especially when it came to the relationships and consequences.
Nowwww, off topic! Whatsoever do you mean this is your last Urban fiction book?! 😫
I do think the story would’ve had more depth if some of Xy and Drek’s relationship issues were actually shown on page instead of summarized. Like Gabraie. She’s introduced as someone he’s supposedly involved with, but we never experience that relationship. The first time we really see her, he’s ending it with her, and then she suddenly turns around and destroys Drek’s business. It was abrupt and out of place because we never got the buildup to justify that level of reaction.
One thing I did love was Drek’s support system. Ken and Rae balanced each other perfectly. Ken was the blunt friend who said what needed to be said, even when she was doing too much. Rae was the opposite, the “if you like it, I love it” friend who let Drek move at her own pace. Drek’s parents were also refreshing. They didn’t give terrible advice or try to control her. They spoke their piece and still respected her as a grown woman who could make her own decisions.
Drek and Xy were soul tied. That was her twin flame, and it was obvious he was never going to fully let her go. And Xy! She agreed to that Bentley in the heat of the moment, not motherhood, stop playing with sis!
Drek was emotionally dependent on Xy. They grew up together, so her identity was tied to him in ways she didn’t even realize until she tried to leave. When your entire sense of self is built alongside one person, separation doesn’t feel freeing, it feels disorienting. That doesn’t make it healthy, but it does make it understandable.
As for Gabraie and her sister, their deaths didn’t land for me at all because they happened off page. If I didn’t experience it as a reader, it didn’t hit emotionally. It was written, not felt, and again lacked depth.
The story had strong concepts and characters, but it needed more showing and less telling, especially when it came to the relationships and consequences.
Nowwww, off topic! Whatsoever do you mean this is your last Urban fiction book?! 😫
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 4, 2026
Put the oxic in toxic
Xyleek and Rahdreka are made for each other and each other only. No way could I put up with all of the antics that Xyleek committed and excuse it because I him. They both put the oxic in toxic. Their volleyball behavior got on my nerves with the back and forth, so that why I loved Makenna, Jah, and the parents for being truthful with them and holding them accountable. Things work how they are planned but they definitely go through hell and high water to get to their happiness.
The author has brought us wonderful stories in the urban fiction genre, so I'm going to miss her writing. But I wish her all the best as she switches to a new genre and I'm looking forward to reading about new characters drama she will bring. For her last urban fiction story, she certainly went out with a bang.
Xyleek and Rahdreka are made for each other and each other only. No way could I put up with all of the antics that Xyleek committed and excuse it because I him. They both put the oxic in toxic. Their volleyball behavior got on my nerves with the back and forth, so that why I loved Makenna, Jah, and the parents for being truthful with them and holding them accountable. Things work how they are planned but they definitely go through hell and high water to get to their happiness.
The author has brought us wonderful stories in the urban fiction genre, so I'm going to miss her writing. But I wish her all the best as she switches to a new genre and I'm looking forward to reading about new characters drama she will bring. For her last urban fiction story, she certainly went out with a bang.
January 26, 2026
GOOD LUCK BOO!
First things first, Shari I wish you all the luck on your new path in life. You left us with a great book. After reading the book summary, I didn’t fully expect this book to go the way it did. Whew, Xyleek was insanely unhinged. I could NOT/NEVER be Dreka. Regardless of the love, he was insane. And he put her through way too much, even when he was doing good. But you know they say true love conquers all. Baybeeeee when I say I would’ve been in a different country with a different identity. Drek tried, but Xy found her every time. I would’ve had to be out man. In the next breath, I loved Xyleek with his unhinged, chaotic, insane, psychotic self. I loved how much he loved Drek and was in tune with her soul and body. He changed for the better and it made for a great ending.
First things first, Shari I wish you all the luck on your new path in life. You left us with a great book. After reading the book summary, I didn’t fully expect this book to go the way it did. Whew, Xyleek was insanely unhinged. I could NOT/NEVER be Dreka. Regardless of the love, he was insane. And he put her through way too much, even when he was doing good. But you know they say true love conquers all. Baybeeeee when I say I would’ve been in a different country with a different identity. Drek tried, but Xy found her every time. I would’ve had to be out man. In the next breath, I loved Xyleek with his unhinged, chaotic, insane, psychotic self. I loved how much he loved Drek and was in tune with her soul and body. He changed for the better and it made for a great ending.
January 29, 2026
OMG I really love this book
Dreka and Xyleek had a toxic relationship it was a lot painful and distrustful. Rollercoaster ride of emotional baggage and cheating and broken promise. Dreka kept giving Xyleek to many chances and instead of dealing with his cheating she would run and accepting how he treated her. Dreka was strong and independent but she was weak when it came to Xyleek he was all she knew. Dreka finally knew her worth and stop accepting his cheating ways and having accountability for his action. Dreka and Xyleek both grew and mature as a married couple and parents. I love her best friend Ken and Rae they always kept it real with her and told her the truth. I also like that they went to therapy to work on themselves and healing emotional, and spiritual it means a lot. I would appreciate another book are a spin-off book on the other couple
Dreka and Xyleek had a toxic relationship it was a lot painful and distrustful. Rollercoaster ride of emotional baggage and cheating and broken promise. Dreka kept giving Xyleek to many chances and instead of dealing with his cheating she would run and accepting how he treated her. Dreka was strong and independent but she was weak when it came to Xyleek he was all she knew. Dreka finally knew her worth and stop accepting his cheating ways and having accountability for his action. Dreka and Xyleek both grew and mature as a married couple and parents. I love her best friend Ken and Rae they always kept it real with her and told her the truth. I also like that they went to therapy to work on themselves and healing emotional, and spiritual it means a lot. I would appreciate another book are a spin-off book on the other couple
February 23, 2026
Xylene was a HOT MESSSS!!! I loved Dreka but imo she was tooooo forgiving of Leek. They were high school sweethearts & the only person each other ever really loved but idk if I would’ve been able to get past the constant public humiliation. Especially when it got to the point that she had to check herself into a facility in the past from all of the stress she endured in that relationship… idk if that was worth reconciling. BUT must say I enjoyed seeing the character development with Xyleek!! He really did put in the work to make an effort to be a better man for her in every way & I was super proud of him by the end of the book!! I just hate that it wasn’t until she had already went through so much. Overall this was a good read!
January 1, 2026
Good read
The novel explored complex relationship dynamics, revealing the nuanced challenges of trust and forgiveness. While the narrative initially presented uneven treatment of infidelity between characters, the resolution ultimately highlighted the importance of personal growth and reconciliation. The characters' journey toward mutual understanding and redemption provided a satisfying conclusion to their emotional arc, culminating in a heartening resolution that emphasized healing and commitment.
The novel explored complex relationship dynamics, revealing the nuanced challenges of trust and forgiveness. While the narrative initially presented uneven treatment of infidelity between characters, the resolution ultimately highlighted the importance of personal growth and reconciliation. The characters' journey toward mutual understanding and redemption provided a satisfying conclusion to their emotional arc, culminating in a heartening resolution that emphasized healing and commitment.
December 30, 2025
Shari B. What a good read. I so enjoyed Xy and Drek they were on a spinning wheel that had to finally stop or totally derail. When I look at Xy he was just a spoiled kid in a man's body. I was so proud of him. I just loved how his true folk checked him. The village they had was just what I think everyone needs. True Love will make a person step back and finally look into the mirror and face all the things. Can't wait to see what's next 🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗
January 5, 2026
Loved It
I loved everything about this book. Xy was certified for real and didn't play about his Angel unless he was the one doing the playing. Dreka was a pushover or nothing like that she just loved Xyleek until love just wasn't enough. I'm glad he finally came to his senses but his fear of really losing her for good cause him to do some irrational things. Love can make you do some crazy things.💟💟
I loved everything about this book. Xy was certified for real and didn't play about his Angel unless he was the one doing the playing. Dreka was a pushover or nothing like that she just loved Xyleek until love just wasn't enough. I'm glad he finally came to his senses but his fear of really losing her for good cause him to do some irrational things. Love can make you do some crazy things.💟💟
January 8, 2026
Ohhhh this book was almost a DNF because Xy! I’m glad Jaheem set him straight and Xy saw the error of his ways. I did not want him to ruin the book for me. Drek did not play with Xy and I love that. She was ready to find him and whoever was with him on him dumbest hour. I truly enjoyed the epilogue. Nice way to end the story.
February 2, 2026
good read
This book was a good book. Xy didn’t play at all when it came to Drek. The fact that he was not going to allow her to move on with anyone one is sickening. I mean she had a husband and he said nope delete delete delete. That’s funny. He is the definition of unhinged. I’m happy he was able to grow up though.
This book was a good book. Xy didn’t play at all when it came to Drek. The fact that he was not going to allow her to move on with anyone one is sickening. I mean she had a husband and he said nope delete delete delete. That’s funny. He is the definition of unhinged. I’m happy he was able to grow up though.
March 10, 2026
I enjoyed the main characters' love toils but too many of the supporting characters over index on Xy's past transgressions. You can almost skip the last few chapters because it's the same rhetoric, different fonts.
This book definitely captures the toxicity and mind fck a first love can have on you.
This book definitely captures the toxicity and mind fck a first love can have on you.
January 3, 2026
Crashout
Xyleek loved Dreka but he loved her the wrong way. When he finally realized he had to let her make her choice to stay or leave that's when he realized she loves me enough to stay and appreciate him for really seeing her.
Xyleek loved Dreka but he loved her the wrong way. When he finally realized he had to let her make her choice to stay or leave that's when he realized she loves me enough to stay and appreciate him for really seeing her.
January 5, 2026
Keywanna Revell
Xyleek was unhinged frfr but he was
Her kript night for sure
Everytime she tried to run away
He really loved her and she loved him !!!
Running from herself
I recommend this book
Xyleek was unhinged frfr but he was
Her kript night for sure
Everytime she tried to run away
He really loved her and she loved him !!!
Running from herself
I recommend this book
February 15, 2026
so good!
Now this book was super good. I laughed, got a little teary eyed, and smiled. Xy was definitely a crash out and I enjoyed how the story was told from this perspective that mistakes happen but we can fix them. It was real.
Now this book was super good. I laughed, got a little teary eyed, and smiled. Xy was definitely a crash out and I enjoyed how the story was told from this perspective that mistakes happen but we can fix them. It was real.
February 27, 2026
GREAT READ
You really went out with a bang! This was a great read. I love the characters and their growth. I hate that you’re leaving this genre but I understand when I higher power calls, you have to answer for duty. Good luck on your new journey and genre!
You really went out with a bang! This was a great read. I love the characters and their growth. I hate that you’re leaving this genre but I understand when I higher power calls, you have to answer for duty. Good luck on your new journey and genre!
December 31, 2025
Good Read!!
This book was so good! It was good from the beginning to the end. I laughed until I cried! Good read.
This book was so good! It was good from the beginning to the end. I laughed until I cried! Good read.
January 4, 2026
crazy
Xy was seriously missing some of his marbles. I knew it was gabi that vandalized her shop. I’m glad Xy got it together
Xy was seriously missing some of his marbles. I knew it was gabi that vandalized her shop. I’m glad Xy got it together
January 5, 2026
Very good book
Dreka and Xy was 2 crazy people the way they loved each other was insane. Xy was definitely a crash out over Dreka.
Dreka and Xy was 2 crazy people the way they loved each other was insane. Xy was definitely a crash out over Dreka.
January 10, 2026
unhinged
Xy was pretty much crazy from childhood. Dreka was hilarious in her attempt to get away. The opening scene had me instantly entertained and excited to read this story!
Xy was pretty much crazy from childhood. Dreka was hilarious in her attempt to get away. The opening scene had me instantly entertained and excited to read this story!
January 20, 2026
This girl ain’t got a lick of sense
February 13, 2026
Good book
Love this book I have to read more books by this author she showed up and showed. Out. I love a good love story.,
Love this book I have to read more books by this author she showed up and showed. Out. I love a good love story.,
March 5, 2026
very good read
Chaotic just how I like it but very well written I love her books it always speaks to my wild side
Chaotic just how I like it but very well written I love her books it always speaks to my wild side
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews