a stray person or thing, especially a domestic animal. not in the right place; separated from the group or target.
His mother didn’t want him, so much so that she named him “Him” and dropped him off on his father’s doorstep. Because his father had an affair and cheated on his wife, he wanted nothing to do with the outside son that affair created. Derrick gave Him to his grandparents to raise, and they did until he was sixteen. At that point, he was forced to live with his father, stepmother, and three brothers—one of which made sure he knew he was a stray.
Cordova met Him while being tortured by her cousins at the age of fifteen. He’d gained a reputation in his father’s organization and the streets, earning the nickname Draco. He learned to be loyal, to provide, and protect—to give the things he wished he’d received—and he gave those things to Cordova.
From the first day they met, Draco made it clear he belonged to Cordova and that she belonged to him. Thirteen years later, they finally have the chance to be in a romantic relationship. Her cousins are unyielding when it comes to getting what they want from her, forcing Draco to prove who he is and why he’s Him. Will their street war end the romantic bond between Him and Cordova as soon as it starts, or will they prove all is truly fair in love and war?
Voted AAMBC's 2018 Romance author of the year, Master storyteller B. Love is the unparalleled self-love teacher. As the powerhouse for modern-day womanhood, she pens contagious content that encourages readers to internalize admiration and intimacy. She allows her most powerful vessel to guide her stories, wholly. Since age 12, Love has been spreading self-awareness, care, and appreciation. For over six years, Love has authored over 40 publications centered around heart-piercing, reverence-worthy romance. Her novels not only entertain but challenge the audience to explore love. With a keen eye for passion, desire and dynamism she includes heuristic methods in her beautifully curated accounts of life. B. Love’s entire persona is spearheaded by her incredible infatuation with the power of love. Contained within each novel, is an edification created for the glorification of self. Her pen bleeds for the souls who need just an inkling of empowerment. Each story is written with the intent to enlighten, engross and enkindle the passion in whoever picks up her book.
He was definitely Him and Cordova was a great compliment to him. I enjoyed this book. I just wish there was more "story" if that makes sense. Like I'd have preferred to read about the proposal and wedding than just the 5 years after the fact. and the last name things with the kids through me off a little but all in all it was a cute quick read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
The bond between Him and Cordova was so sweet! I loved the little phrase they would say to each other instead of just saying I love you"—so cute. The bond they developed as kids and kept into their adulthood was a great foundation for love. Him definitely stood ten toes down about her, and I loved it. There's just something about a man that's willing to tear the city up about you.
Cordova and Him, Loving My Neighbor, My Bestfriend
This was such a great read, a very easy read too!!!… It’s something about that childhood friendship that blossoms into a sweet adult love story!!!… Him and Cordova may have lost a lot and struggled with the loneliness with a family, but they definitely had it all together and their story is a beautiful one!!!…
It’s just something about that guy that protects the girl from any and everyone that tries her !!! Him was just that HIM !!! That ninja because from the moment he saw Dova he knew instantly that we’re gonna be stuck together !
The fact that his mommy named him “HIM” and left him on his daddy and wife step straight out the womb is crazyyyyy …
This book shows you that just because you and someone shares the same bloodline don’t mean shit ! It doesn’t mean that they have the right to treat you like nothing !
I love that they held each other down all those years without crossing the line and actually got their happy ending !
30 years for his dad and big bro to get their shit together is crazy !!
I wanted to like this so bad, but it was like reading about children instead of 29 year olds. Because of the childlike interactions btw the characters this didn’t build romantic vibes for me. I DNF this, so I’m not sure if the story ever explained why her cousins didn’t like her. It would seem as though they would’ve been close since their mothers were close sisters. I gave 2 stars for the potential. The MMC seemed like idk I don’t have words for it, but it’s nothing like a grown man that knows what he wants acts. There was no build up to anything. It would just be one day and 5 days later, or 3 days later.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Him was drawn to Cordova from the very beginning. Claimed her in his mind at 16 and built a friendship like no other. He was her protector and she was his peace. Their bond over being outsiders in their own families is what got at my heart strings.
Then the fun stuff happened and bonds were broken and alliances were formed. There was no way out when the pit bull was released. They didn't call him Draco in the streets for nothing. Mess with Cordova and you lose your breath. That simple.
Poor Cordova treated like an outsider as well as Him. Neither family understood that what happened in their lives was not their fault. From the time Draco aka Him met Cordova, he knew they would be together forever. I love how he cared for and protected her. Her cousins, all 4 of them were terrible, Cameron and Brandon got their just karma abd Lily lost out as well for upholding her siblings in their wrong! Great read!
This was a really quick read. Your standard friends to lovers when they’re pretty much already in a relationship without the title lol. Him was, well him lol. He didn’t play with protecting Cordova. Even though this was a quick paced story, we still got to see estranged family dynamics from both Cordova & Him’s family. Plus a nice sprinkle of action and drama but not within the couple.
Quick read but very enjoyable. Him! Stray!very good. Enjoyed this book which seems to be the first installment of a collaborative series of themed standalones called Breeds.
I liked it, but didn’t love it. interesting emotional backstory, but the execution felt rushed. The connection between all of the characters, especially Him and Cordova had potential, yet key moments needed more development to fully land. I wanted more, smoother pacing, and stronger buildup to make the romance and conflict feel earned. Some of the transitions were a bit off.
I’m always a sucker for stories about overlooked people finding someone who truly sees them. Childhood connection, ride-or-die energy, and a love that’s been brewing for years. It’s gritty, emotional, and rooted in loyalty, which is my sweet spot. Watching two people who’ve survived so much finally choose each other is honestly what made this one hit.
I don’t enjoy friends-to-lovers stories where the characters beat around the bush while doing full-on relationship things. These two are clearly in a relationship but refuse to acknowledge it. They spend all their time together, she kissed him, she calls him first for everything, fantasizes about him, yet is still trying to date someone else, then calls to tell him. They never grew out of being teenagers.
They even have a whole relationship mantra they repeat to each other regularly, which makes the denial even more ridiculous. You don’t exchange “forever and always” affirmations and then pretend you’re just friends. Pick a lane.
The dragging and refusal to let the relationship evolve killed my interest.
Also, the author’s notes at the beginning trend needs to stop. It won’t stop readers from speaking their minds. What one person dislikes, another may enjoy. Reviews are subjective, and readers should be allowed to express that freely without being lectured beforehand.
B Love Stray is a powerful, emotionally charged story that captures the beauty and messiness of love, healing, and self-discovery. From the very beginning, the author draws you into a world that feels raw and real, making it impossible not to become invested in the characters and their journeys. The storytelling is smooth and intentional, allowing the emotions to unfold naturally without feeling rushed or forced.
What stood out most to me was how deeply layered the characters are. Their flaws, fears, and desires are written in a way that feels authentic, making their growth incredibly satisfying to witness. The love story isn’t perfect and that’s what makes it so compelling. It explores trust, vulnerability, and what it truly means to open your heart after life has tried to harden it.
The emotional moments hit hard, the romantic scenes are tender and meaningful, and the overall message of healing and choosing love is beautifully woven throughout the story. By the end, I felt connected, fulfilled, and honestly wishing there was more to read. B Love Stray is more than just a romance it’s a reminder that love can find you even when you feel lost.
Highly recommend to anyone who enjoys romance with depth, emotion, and heart. 💫
This book had such an interesting and emotional take—especially with the way the author used animal comparisons, like puppies and dogs, and how his siblings labeled him a “stray.” That metaphor alone hit hard.
It was a really good read. Emotional, endearing, heartbreaking, and unfortunately… relatable. Not the kind of relatable you want to connect with, but the kind that makes you pause because it feels real.
The story touched on so many deep layers—losing parents, being raised in a home full of family yet still feeling like an outsider, rejection from a mother who didn’t want him, and the trauma bonding that eventually turned into something stronger. What started in pain grew into a true love, a real friendship, and a relationship that felt like it was built to last… and it did.
This was my first book by this author, and I was honestly impressed. I’m definitely looking forward to reading more.
♥️♥️♥️ This was a heat filled w/love "Friends To Lovers" read. Admired the friendship "Cordova" and "Him" developed over the years as a result of her bully cousins (male & female), who made her life a living hell. Both Cordova and Him (Draco) came from rocky and loveless backgrounds, and their friendship blossomed after Cordova rescued her from her cousins fighting, chasing, & taunting her one afternoon. She had the meanest and evilest cousins! He stood 10 toes down for Cordova and became her life-long protector and strengthened the deep love they shared for each other.
Yes, his name was actually Him, and you'll have to read the story to get the background for his name and the hate that brewed between he and his dad & one of his brothers.
Loved that he and his father and oldest brother were able to work on and out a father/son and brother/brother authentic family bond.
In the end, love and family won out for "Him" and Cordova. ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
Him and Cordova met as teenagers when he came to her rescue while she was being bullied by her cousins. They became long-term friends after that. Him and Cordova both had bad childhoods in common. Him (Draco) ended up being his family's enforcer, but he continued to protect Cordova as he always did. However, once she decides to date someone else, I loved how he wasn't having it and decided to make his feelings known. I also loved how he courted her and made sure she recognized his intentions. Her cousins were trash, and I was happy when karma hit them in the face. Him's father and brother finally accepting him made a difference in his life. There were emotional aspects in the book as well as drama, revenge and secrets. A great friends to lovers book that you'll enjoy just like I did.
“Who do you love?” I asked, making her giggle. “You.” “And who loves you?” “You.” “That heart my heart?” “Forever and always.” “I love you, boo.” “Mm…” Cordova tossed her arm around my neck, and as our heartbeats synced, she confessed, “I love you, pooh.”
Ms. B. Love, the Prolific Pen Pusher", you always have me smiling whenever I read your books. The characters are always amazing and so down to earth. Their flaws make them beautifully human, and I love that for me as an avid reader.
Him and Cordova are most definitely couple goals! They genuinely love, respect, and care for each other. They constantly check to see if each other is Good. This is a great start to the new year and series. Can't wait to read the next book.
Cordova is raised by her auntvand uncle after losing her parents. Three of the four of theur kids, her cousins don't like her and mistrests her every chance they get.
Him is the product of an affair and after his mom leaves him with his dad, he is raised by his paternal grand parents. His dads wife doesn't like him, so es never really creates a relationship with his dad.
He resuced Cordova when her cousins are bothering her. He was joined to her hips from this day forward.
They both see each other as more thsn a friend, but afraid to ruin their friendship. They discusd it decides on theor next steps together.
However, her cousins still have grown up and now decisions have to be made.
Nobody wanted Him. His mama left after not giving him a proper name, and his Dad's wife couldn't accept him. His grandparents gave him all the love and lessons he needed until the left him too act 16. That's when he officially became The Stray, the spare no one wanted - until Cordova. She fell into his life and made it easy for him to love again. These two were inseparable and did life together as friends for so long that being lovers was the easiest solution. Derrick and Clover coming to their senses was a better late than never situation. Cordova's family...I don't even understand how they came out the way they did when it was evident their mom was an amazing person. Let's see if I can read all the breeds...Happy Reading Y'all!💋
I loved everything about this story had me in my feelings beautiful romantic adventurous on edge love story one of my favorite couple and love story😍😍🥹😭🫶🏽🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾the way he stood ten toes down for her him was definitely book Bae 🤤💞💕her family was a mess treated her like crab every since they were young kids her cousins made it well known she didn't belong their living in their mom house her aunt wow that's true facts how your own people can treat and betrayal you but him and his family were there for her dova 💞💕❣️I love how their relationship started from friendship to lovers soul mate 💕❤️💯I love how they had their saying who do you love? You ....awww💞I didn't want it end!!!! B love did her thing!!! Love her books are the best!!!!
Foremost, why does Draco’s name & his occupation sound familiar. …(hmmm, I have to query my journals for potential recurring character references.🧐💭⁉️). Meanwhile, “Stray (BLP Breed - Standalone Series) - Book 1 of 4 wasn’t the book/storyline I expected. However, “Stray” was urban poetry in motion. … “My Endless Love 💕🥰” (all versions) 🎶: …the good, bad, unfathomable, survival of the fittest, against all odd, loyal to the soil a ride & die couple. Like hood homies, Dova & Draco are ole faithfuls comparable to our fur babies, PB&Js and or classic R&B ….they’re always there, hit the spot & they just get better with time‼️
I liked Cordova & Him’s relationship. I appreciated their loyalty & affections for each other. They were the sweetest. this is my favorite quote: “She won’t want for nothing with me, and she’ll always be safe. I won’t suggest that I’m this… spotless, perfect man, but I’ll be the best man for her.” I feel like it embodies Him’s character & his devotion to his Boo! Cuz we don’t need a perfect, polished man, just one who supports us in the ways we need. Nothing ever stopped Him from protecting her, or showing up for her. I enjoyed the ending. All questions were answered & any conflicts were resolved.
I recommend this to the book babes who enjoy: Friends to Lovers, Great Spice, Found Family, + Just Enough Mess/Drama.
Yasssssssssss HIM was that NINJA. Because the character visual gave me LIFEEEEEEEEEE. I loved how he protected Dova since the beginning without even knowing her first. I also love how Dova knew how and what to do to get HIM to be calm in every situation. All of Dova cousins make me sick and I was really shocked with Lily actions but Dova did right by staying her distance. I was saddened by HIM upbringing but I was also happy the him, Derrick and Clover were able to make amends. Great read
Short friends to lovers story that was pretty good. Him and Cordova met as kids and had pretty similar backgrounds. Him was abandoned by his mother and raised by his paternal grandparents, whereas Cordova was raised by her aunt and uncle. They both didn’t have the best relationship with their relatives, therefore solidifying their friendship. Friendship turned into true love and they both got their happily ever afters. Now my question, what would posses a mom to name her son Him? He needed to grow up without her. SMH!🤦🏾♀️
B..you came through. That is often true that family is not always family. As Him said...you have to make a decision of what you will or will not accept. Let me be honest....I needed/ more wanted Cordova to put hands on Lily & Megan😂😂🤪🤪. They all knew what was happening. The love and relationship Cordova had for her aunt was beautiful. However, enough is enough. Him's father owning his actions were better late than never. Everyone handles situations differently. I loved the way Him and the family handled business. Loved it✨️✨️💕💕♥️
I !I've all of your books and this one was so good, you can pick your nose you can pick your friends but you can't pick your family. Him didn't play about Dova and would take you out about her too.... her cousins were trash and I thought that Lily had her back but I was wrong about that and Clover was a butt head calling him a stray but who saved his life .... Him. Cam and Brandon got what they deserved and Him told Lily.... you better stay in The ATL or you going to get got like your brothers 😂😂🤷🏽♀️🤷🏽♀️
Once again B Love has given us the perfect friends to lovers story. Him was thee man the ultimate protector! He did not play about Cordova. I am glad he was the loyal friend she needed even when she didn’t have family. I am glad Him had Cordova to let him know he is capable of the family he didn’t have when he was younger!! All and all they were each others safe space that bloomed!! Five stars Ms. Love🥰
This was a good start to this new series. I loved the bond between Cordova and Him. They both gave each other belonging when their families treated them badly. I was happy that Him and his father and brother were able to make amends and sad that it couldn’t happen for Cordova but you can’t make people love you and treat you right no matter how much you do the same in return and I was happy that Cordova finally accepted that.