What do you think?
Rate this book
The 19th Hole
Zaire Cooks knows the game.
The eighteen holes that made him a star, and the quiet rules that were never written for someone like him. He’s sharp, rooted, and too damn visible for a league that only wants his swing, not his voice. When the headlines get loud and the pressure turns political, a colleague tells him about this magical place where golfers go to refocus themselves. Juniper Falls.
Meadow Green is running out of room to breathe.
Her family’s land is on the brink of foreclosure, her mama’s health is slipping, and every unpaid notice feels like another clock ticking. She grew up on the green. Dirt under her nails, expectations on her back, carrying a legacy that never cared if she was tired. Being the only daughter taught her how to hold things together, even when they’re falling apart.
What starts as friction across the fairway turns into something neither of them planned.
Golf ends after eighteen holes.
But Zaire and Meadow are about to learn what waits after the scorecard runs out.
The eighteen holes that made him a star, and the quiet rules that were never written for someone like him. He’s sharp, rooted, and too damn visible for a league that only wants his swing, not his voice. When the headlines get loud and the pressure turns political, a colleague tells him about this magical place where golfers go to refocus themselves. Juniper Falls.
Meadow Green is running out of room to breathe.
Her family’s land is on the brink of foreclosure, her mama’s health is slipping, and every unpaid notice feels like another clock ticking. She grew up on the green. Dirt under her nails, expectations on her back, carrying a legacy that never cared if she was tired. Being the only daughter taught her how to hold things together, even when they’re falling apart.
What starts as friction across the fairway turns into something neither of them planned.
Golf ends after eighteen holes.
But Zaire and Meadow are about to learn what waits after the scorecard runs out.
496 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 8, 2026
325 people are currently reading
218 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
January 13, 2026
4.5 ⭐️I love when authors give us sports romance outside the norm. Love the creative but most importantly the black love. I enjoyed this one. The characters and to story telling. Zaire and how he didn’t play about Meadow and just loved her out loud. Meadow took a minute to receive and accept the love, but what’s love without alittle doubt. It was interesting to see the prospecting of a black golfer.
January 9, 2026
Zaire - My Man, My Man!
I expect nothing less than stellar from Evelyn. Who knew I needed a black golf player who is 100% secure and authentic in himself at all times! But here we are, loving another fictional character. The 19th Hole was different but in the best way. It is healing; it speaks to those who are carrying everything by themselves, feeling burned out, and suffering in silence. There is light at the end of the tunnel.. ❤️
I loved that Evelyn shined awareness on caregiver burnout, racism in the sports industry and how challenging it can be to just breathe when you wear so many hats. I also thought speaking on the corporate vultures who constantly want to “take” things that don’t belong to them, in this case Meadow’s family was at risk of losing their property, and it made me sick because that happens so often. Speaking of Meadow, I saw so much of myself in her story - I’m so happy she allowed Zaire to love her. The story is layered with complex characters, thought provoking, and life changing gems. At times it was heavy but the healing and all black, everything was heavier! I loved this story so much! Another banger from Ev!🥰
I expect nothing less than stellar from Evelyn. Who knew I needed a black golf player who is 100% secure and authentic in himself at all times! But here we are, loving another fictional character. The 19th Hole was different but in the best way. It is healing; it speaks to those who are carrying everything by themselves, feeling burned out, and suffering in silence. There is light at the end of the tunnel.. ❤️
I loved that Evelyn shined awareness on caregiver burnout, racism in the sports industry and how challenging it can be to just breathe when you wear so many hats. I also thought speaking on the corporate vultures who constantly want to “take” things that don’t belong to them, in this case Meadow’s family was at risk of losing their property, and it made me sick because that happens so often. Speaking of Meadow, I saw so much of myself in her story - I’m so happy she allowed Zaire to love her. The story is layered with complex characters, thought provoking, and life changing gems. At times it was heavy but the healing and all black, everything was heavier! I loved this story so much! Another banger from Ev!🥰
January 8, 2026
ARC Review
5⭐️
Evelyn gave us a Cinderella-meets-Charming spin about two people carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders, yet somehow finding solace in each other. The FMC is used to cooking, cleaning, and making something out of without complaint. The MMC, on the other hand, just needed peace. A safe place. Somewhere he could exist as the man he is without pressure or expectation. Together, they were exactly what the other needed.
Y’all… this book was sooooo good. Evelyn delivered a perfect sports romance wrapped in a hood Cinderella retelling, and I DEVOURED it. It had me feeling all the emotions as two people carrying the weight of the world found solace in each other. He was all for her, she was all for him, and their connection was everything!!
Highly Recommend 🌶️🌶️🌶️
5⭐️
Evelyn gave us a Cinderella-meets-Charming spin about two people carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders, yet somehow finding solace in each other. The FMC is used to cooking, cleaning, and making something out of without complaint. The MMC, on the other hand, just needed peace. A safe place. Somewhere he could exist as the man he is without pressure or expectation. Together, they were exactly what the other needed.
Y’all… this book was sooooo good. Evelyn delivered a perfect sports romance wrapped in a hood Cinderella retelling, and I DEVOURED it. It had me feeling all the emotions as two people carrying the weight of the world found solace in each other. He was all for her, she was all for him, and their connection was everything!!
Highly Recommend 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Read
January 20, 2026This book was soft, it was Love, it was black boy and black girl wins.
It has been a long time since I have had this many highlights on a book. They way that Zair spoke like and love into meadow even when he was there for his own self-reflection. They way that her quick tongue became his peace. I loved every minute of it. This was easily a 5 star, and I wasn't even 20% into yet. I love how every scene played out. How it touched on the battles with dementia. How as black men and women we have to continuously prove ourselves or shrink ourselves to fit a narrative. I love how there was a push to be unapologetically black and authentically yourself.
It has been a long time since I have had this many highlights on a book. They way that Zair spoke like and love into meadow even when he was there for his own self-reflection. They way that her quick tongue became his peace. I loved every minute of it. This was easily a 5 star, and I wasn't even 20% into yet. I love how every scene played out. How it touched on the battles with dementia. How as black men and women we have to continuously prove ourselves or shrink ourselves to fit a narrative. I love how there was a push to be unapologetically black and authentically yourself.
January 18, 2026
An insta-love but slow burn at the same dang time, lol.
I enjoyed this story so much. This was my first sports romance, and I did not expect it to come from a hood golfer? YES MAAAAM!!!! A great story of the woes of trying to be the golden child or the only child or the strong child. A story I didn't realize I needed to read. It spoke of the fatigue of being the strong one, the fatigue of having to save your tears for the shower or the rain so no one knows when you're crying, the fatigue of fighting off love because you don't know if you have the energy to give it back properly.
Not only that, the story spoke of the racism in the golf world. And how much of an impact it can make on someone to have to constantly be beat down when you're just trying to do the one thing you're passionate about, the one thing that helps you feel comfortable and free.
Idk. I might just need a crip walking golfer in my life now chile.
Story lost stars because of the amount of editing/spelling errors in the book. It distracted me quite a bit from the story with having to reread lines a few times to understand what the author was trying to say. Also, at some points the story felt a tiny little bit repetitive. Despite the errors, the story was still amazing. Easily a 4.5-5 star book if it went through another round of editing.
I enjoyed this story so much. This was my first sports romance, and I did not expect it to come from a hood golfer? YES MAAAAM!!!! A great story of the woes of trying to be the golden child or the only child or the strong child. A story I didn't realize I needed to read. It spoke of the fatigue of being the strong one, the fatigue of having to save your tears for the shower or the rain so no one knows when you're crying, the fatigue of fighting off love because you don't know if you have the energy to give it back properly.
Not only that, the story spoke of the racism in the golf world. And how much of an impact it can make on someone to have to constantly be beat down when you're just trying to do the one thing you're passionate about, the one thing that helps you feel comfortable and free.
Idk. I might just need a crip walking golfer in my life now chile.
Story lost stars because of the amount of editing/spelling errors in the book. It distracted me quite a bit from the story with having to reread lines a few times to understand what the author was trying to say. Also, at some points the story felt a tiny little bit repetitive. Despite the errors, the story was still amazing. Easily a 4.5-5 star book if it went through another round of editing.
January 15, 2026
Under the crushing weight of life and racism in sports, survival becomes a daily fight—forcing two guarded souls into an uneasy companionship where control, buried family secrets, and vulnerable truths threaten everything they’re trying to protect, including love and loyalty.
This story embodies the often-unseen struggles of Black men navigating spaces not built for them—specifically the world of professional golf. When Zaire meets Meadow, she ignites something within him he didn’t even realize was missing. In return, he becomes the one person she allows herself to truly open up to in ways she never has before. Life may have brought them together, but love, choice, and loyalty are what keeps them standing side by side through it all.
This story embodies the often-unseen struggles of Black men navigating spaces not built for them—specifically the world of professional golf. When Zaire meets Meadow, she ignites something within him he didn’t even realize was missing. In return, he becomes the one person she allows herself to truly open up to in ways she never has before. Life may have brought them together, but love, choice, and loyalty are what keeps them standing side by side through it all.
January 8, 2026
The 19th Hole where Game Ends and Life Starts !
Maybe I’m a sucker for the HEA or Black Romance idk and idc but Author Evelyn got it with this one. She started off the new year right dropping this gem. I enjoyed this story and love of Zaire and Meadow two young black adults with the world on their shoulders, the pressure of life, and pressure of society in being black. Monalea song “Diary of an OG” really fits the cake of Meadow Rain aka our “Marai”. Sis had life responsibilities weighing her heavy of being the oldest, only child and a black woman at that. Then you got Zaire aka “Prince Charming” who has the pressure of being successful as the only black man of his age in a league full of people who hate his skin color and wanna see him fail and be what they assume him and his people to be. Coming from the hood of L.A. and holding them on his back as well. He dealt with the very unfair but recognizable tale of being a black man and having power that many wish to see him not have and envy. Zaire and Meadow had the pressure cooker of weight ready to explode but when together and meeting it becomes a released breath of fresh air long overdue. Both learning how to let go and lean on each other from the pain blossomed into something so beautiful and meaningful ! The supporting characters made this book even more of a gem from meadows best friend to Zaire’s momma; the whole crew was such a treat. Author Evelyn delivered and fed me full with appreciation and joy of her story telling. 🤎
Maybe I’m a sucker for the HEA or Black Romance idk and idc but Author Evelyn got it with this one. She started off the new year right dropping this gem. I enjoyed this story and love of Zaire and Meadow two young black adults with the world on their shoulders, the pressure of life, and pressure of society in being black. Monalea song “Diary of an OG” really fits the cake of Meadow Rain aka our “Marai”. Sis had life responsibilities weighing her heavy of being the oldest, only child and a black woman at that. Then you got Zaire aka “Prince Charming” who has the pressure of being successful as the only black man of his age in a league full of people who hate his skin color and wanna see him fail and be what they assume him and his people to be. Coming from the hood of L.A. and holding them on his back as well. He dealt with the very unfair but recognizable tale of being a black man and having power that many wish to see him not have and envy. Zaire and Meadow had the pressure cooker of weight ready to explode but when together and meeting it becomes a released breath of fresh air long overdue. Both learning how to let go and lean on each other from the pain blossomed into something so beautiful and meaningful ! The supporting characters made this book even more of a gem from meadows best friend to Zaire’s momma; the whole crew was such a treat. Author Evelyn delivered and fed me full with appreciation and joy of her story telling. 🤎
January 9, 2026
⛳️🏌🏿♂️💙
Sports romance and a slow burn… Two tropes that I’m not a fan of, but chile 🥵 I was locked in.
This crip golfer by the name of Zaire had me swooning 🥰. He was fione, intentional and oozed grown man energy. I was ready to take my ass to LA myself and find me a him cuh 😂.
I loved me some Meadow. She’s the type of FMC I’ll always root for. I resonated with her so deeply because she carried so much on her shoulders and still tried to pour into others. That kind of strength doesn’t get talked about enough. My good sis deserved it all because she carried it all 🤏🏾.
This wasn’t a rush you through romance. It was steady, layered, and full of feeling. This did exactly what it was supposed to do. The chemistry built naturally, the tension stayed tensioning, and when it finally hit, it was worth the wait. This book was soft, sexy, and emotionally satisfying without trying too hard.
Sports romance and a slow burn… Two tropes that I’m not a fan of, but chile 🥵 I was locked in.
This crip golfer by the name of Zaire had me swooning 🥰. He was fione, intentional and oozed grown man energy. I was ready to take my ass to LA myself and find me a him cuh 😂.
I loved me some Meadow. She’s the type of FMC I’ll always root for. I resonated with her so deeply because she carried so much on her shoulders and still tried to pour into others. That kind of strength doesn’t get talked about enough. My good sis deserved it all because she carried it all 🤏🏾.
This wasn’t a rush you through romance. It was steady, layered, and full of feeling. This did exactly what it was supposed to do. The chemistry built naturally, the tension stayed tensioning, and when it finally hit, it was worth the wait. This book was soft, sexy, and emotionally satisfying without trying too hard.
January 14, 2026
The book was good and i loved the emotional elements but at times it did feel like it was dragging on or a bit redundant. Like I get it both of you guys are carrying heavy stuff but do you have to say it every few sentences? Also meadow girl every single person in this story told you to let that man love you and you still let fear stop you up until the last minute. Even your mom!! Now I'm not from the west coast so maybe I shouldn't comment on this but did Zaire really need to say " Cuh" that much? Despite that i did enjoy the story and was happy to be on this beautiful Journey with marai and her northstar. I enjoy Evelyn Latrice's writing. This is my second book by her and I'm excited to dive into her other books
January 17, 2026
I'm sure this will go in my list of favorite books of the year! I absolutely LOVE everything about The 19th Hole, from the characters to the storyline! There were so many gems that were dropped in this book that spoke to me!
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves a good sports romance! Zaire was a golfer, and although it was a major part of the storyline there is so much more that you will absolutely LOVE about this book! You will love all of the characters and storylines!
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves a good sports romance! Zaire was a golfer, and although it was a major part of the storyline there is so much more that you will absolutely LOVE about this book! You will love all of the characters and storylines!
January 15, 2026
Oh.. my.. goodness.. THIS BOOK!!
I don’t even have the words for how OUTSTANDING this book was. Evelyn Latrice is a PHENOMENAL author. My goodness! What a celebration of Blackness. What a light on Blackness. What a LOVE for Blackness.
This story was more than a romance. It hit me so deeply. What the Black woman often carries… the Black man too but they finally gets their breath. Meadow and Zaire were the utmost deserving people.
This is one that will sit with me for a long time. Well done Ms. Latrice.
I don’t even have the words for how OUTSTANDING this book was. Evelyn Latrice is a PHENOMENAL author. My goodness! What a celebration of Blackness. What a light on Blackness. What a LOVE for Blackness.
This story was more than a romance. It hit me so deeply. What the Black woman often carries… the Black man too but they finally gets their breath. Meadow and Zaire were the utmost deserving people.
This is one that will sit with me for a long time. Well done Ms. Latrice.
January 9, 2026
19th
Masterful! A story writhin a story! The imagery made me feel as if I was in the story seeing things happen in real time. I loved Meadows personality. Zaire & Meadow were salve to each others wounds!
Masterful! A story writhin a story! The imagery made me feel as if I was in the story seeing things happen in real time. I loved Meadows personality. Zaire & Meadow were salve to each others wounds!
January 11, 2026
The 19th Hole is for the lover girls. If you love Black, vulnerable, intentional, ghetto love. Love that feels safe. Love that chooses you when you can barely choose yourself. Love you never knew you needed. Definitely go read that black ass love story. You won’t be disappointed.
January 11, 2026
Toooooo good!!! 4.75⭐️
January 11, 2026
The freakin 19th hole!!! This book was so wholesome. I loved it. I love all of her books though so let’s be honest, it’s so so so good. Cinderella meets Prince Charming 👑
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2026
Marai & North Star
Ev, really has a way of getting to me. I love that stories aren’t super “urban” in a way of guns and bullets. But great black stories of triumph and success. I appreciate the dedication to learning whatever character you’re describing. Whether it’s tech or golf. This takes the writing to a new level. I don’t even know what book is my favorite at this point.
Ev, really has a way of getting to me. I love that stories aren’t super “urban” in a way of guns and bullets. But great black stories of triumph and success. I appreciate the dedication to learning whatever character you’re describing. Whether it’s tech or golf. This takes the writing to a new level. I don’t even know what book is my favorite at this point.
January 17, 2026
The 19th Hole
I am at a loss for words in a great way but have so many words and feelings at the same time after reading this absolutely beautiful story! I loved everything I have read so far by Ms Evelyn Latrice, however this one hit so much different and deeper than I was expecting. The essence of black love, black joy, black trauma, and just the black experience pulsed so much throughout this story. I connected so much with both Meadow and Zaire’s experiences. Meadow carrying the family weight and really the trauma and duty that she didn’t ask for but was immediately placed on her because essentially there was nobody else to do it because of the fragility of her parents, was so heart breaking. Meadow held so much on her shoulders for everyone else and she truly deserved to have so much poured back into her so she could breathe too and essentially live life. Magnolia having memory loss and bouncing back from reality and feeling lost, touched me. My grandfather experienced these same things with his dementia battle for some years before he passed. Experiencing your loved one dealign with dementia and or Alzheimers is really rough. I loved loved loved how Zaire affirmed, loved, and just poured so much love and power into Meadow. My heart broke for Zaire dealing with the guilt of his farther being locked up because of him shooting an intruder at 5 years old. My god that is an unimaginable weight to carry and tortuous on the mental. His father wasn’t perfect, especially from living that street life. Him protecting his son the way that he did by taking that charge, was other worldly commendable. I also connected deeply with Zaire with him standing in his beautiful blackness while being in these predominately white spaces that he earned and deserved to be in, in the golf world and any and everywhere else. I went to a PWI for college in undergrad and even my work environment, and knew that exact feeling he had. I was so happy he stayed rooted in who he was and did not try to assimilate into what the white media wanted him to be to. “Our depth is not too much. Our light does not need permission to shine. we belong in every room we walk into. Our dreams deserve space. (Teyana Taylor)”
I am at a loss for words in a great way but have so many words and feelings at the same time after reading this absolutely beautiful story! I loved everything I have read so far by Ms Evelyn Latrice, however this one hit so much different and deeper than I was expecting. The essence of black love, black joy, black trauma, and just the black experience pulsed so much throughout this story. I connected so much with both Meadow and Zaire’s experiences. Meadow carrying the family weight and really the trauma and duty that she didn’t ask for but was immediately placed on her because essentially there was nobody else to do it because of the fragility of her parents, was so heart breaking. Meadow held so much on her shoulders for everyone else and she truly deserved to have so much poured back into her so she could breathe too and essentially live life. Magnolia having memory loss and bouncing back from reality and feeling lost, touched me. My grandfather experienced these same things with his dementia battle for some years before he passed. Experiencing your loved one dealign with dementia and or Alzheimers is really rough. I loved loved loved how Zaire affirmed, loved, and just poured so much love and power into Meadow. My heart broke for Zaire dealing with the guilt of his farther being locked up because of him shooting an intruder at 5 years old. My god that is an unimaginable weight to carry and tortuous on the mental. His father wasn’t perfect, especially from living that street life. Him protecting his son the way that he did by taking that charge, was other worldly commendable. I also connected deeply with Zaire with him standing in his beautiful blackness while being in these predominately white spaces that he earned and deserved to be in, in the golf world and any and everywhere else. I went to a PWI for college in undergrad and even my work environment, and knew that exact feeling he had. I was so happy he stayed rooted in who he was and did not try to assimilate into what the white media wanted him to be to. “Our depth is not too much. Our light does not need permission to shine. we belong in every room we walk into. Our dreams deserve space. (Teyana Taylor)”
January 20, 2026
Marai + Northstar = an amazing Black love story.
This is one Blackity Black Black love story. It’s of course the love of a Black man for a Black woman. That love is reflected in Ray & Magnolia, Tia & Blain, Antwon & Lesha and of course, Zaire & Meadow - the MMC & FMC.
Then there’s the love based upon friendship Tia & Meadow. The love Ray & Zaire had for golf. Parental love. The other theme in the book is legacy. How Black folks have to hold on with everything to maintain what they have and to pass the legacy on to their children.
Finally this is a book about an unapologetic Black man playing golf. Believe me he’s no Tiger Woods! Zaire is hugely talented and is a champion in a white man’s sport. But instead of blending in or selling parts of his soul, he comes to the game as a full Black man brought by a single Black woman from the hood. Experiencing all of the slights, taunts and disrespect that white people give Black people when they don’t believe you belong in their spaces.
This book is all about the spiritualism, the mystical magic of living as Black person in a white world. How Faith and family mold and shape you. How you stand tall even when the weight of the world is on your shoulders. And especially how the love of your person is a safe haven from all those worries.
This book also made me proud as a Black person. I was thrilled that Zaire showed up as his true authentic self. That he didn’t shrink to become who the golfing industry thought he should be. That Zaire loved his Black mama and wanted to give the world to his Black woman. That he even honored his father while acknowledging his mistakes.
I read this because a few Black Bookstagrammers I follow were reading or recommending it. It was everything and enveloped me, reminding me of why my people are so special. The perfect read for MLK Day weekend. Borrowed this from Kindle Unlimited.
This is one Blackity Black Black love story. It’s of course the love of a Black man for a Black woman. That love is reflected in Ray & Magnolia, Tia & Blain, Antwon & Lesha and of course, Zaire & Meadow - the MMC & FMC.
Then there’s the love based upon friendship Tia & Meadow. The love Ray & Zaire had for golf. Parental love. The other theme in the book is legacy. How Black folks have to hold on with everything to maintain what they have and to pass the legacy on to their children.
Finally this is a book about an unapologetic Black man playing golf. Believe me he’s no Tiger Woods! Zaire is hugely talented and is a champion in a white man’s sport. But instead of blending in or selling parts of his soul, he comes to the game as a full Black man brought by a single Black woman from the hood. Experiencing all of the slights, taunts and disrespect that white people give Black people when they don’t believe you belong in their spaces.
This book is all about the spiritualism, the mystical magic of living as Black person in a white world. How Faith and family mold and shape you. How you stand tall even when the weight of the world is on your shoulders. And especially how the love of your person is a safe haven from all those worries.
This book also made me proud as a Black person. I was thrilled that Zaire showed up as his true authentic self. That he didn’t shrink to become who the golfing industry thought he should be. That Zaire loved his Black mama and wanted to give the world to his Black woman. That he even honored his father while acknowledging his mistakes.
I read this because a few Black Bookstagrammers I follow were reading or recommending it. It was everything and enveloped me, reminding me of why my people are so special. The perfect read for MLK Day weekend. Borrowed this from Kindle Unlimited.
January 14, 2026
The story of the Only Child
When I think about this story, I’m reminded of the song Cinderella from The Cheetah Girls. Meadow reminds me of the woman in that song because, Meadow is a strong female lead who doesn’t want to depend on anyone to save her. Zaire, our male lead, is a black pro golfer who’s different from the accepted Tiger Woods. He embodies the real black experience and faces pressure in the whitewashed golf industry to shrink himself. Evelyn Latrice does a wonderful job of bringing life to black women, men, boys, and girls, and their journey to love is really about trusting yourself to be soft for someone who’s showing up for you, as well as no longer shrinking yourself. I absolutely love Meadow and Zaire’s relationship. I highly recommend that readers take their time with this story because it delves into the ebs and flows of someone who has been a caregiver for their aging parents and one who carries the burden of a community all of his shoulders. You’re that example of someone who made it out and now you’re on a platform where you can’t fail. I think that even though for me, I’m not a pro golfer or an only child I can resonate so much with both our characters. Now, this book is also quite spicy, and I certainly love that for me. This story is layered with family, faith and community as well too. Legacy Legacy Legacy.
When I think about this story, I’m reminded of the song Cinderella from The Cheetah Girls. Meadow reminds me of the woman in that song because, Meadow is a strong female lead who doesn’t want to depend on anyone to save her. Zaire, our male lead, is a black pro golfer who’s different from the accepted Tiger Woods. He embodies the real black experience and faces pressure in the whitewashed golf industry to shrink himself. Evelyn Latrice does a wonderful job of bringing life to black women, men, boys, and girls, and their journey to love is really about trusting yourself to be soft for someone who’s showing up for you, as well as no longer shrinking yourself. I absolutely love Meadow and Zaire’s relationship. I highly recommend that readers take their time with this story because it delves into the ebs and flows of someone who has been a caregiver for their aging parents and one who carries the burden of a community all of his shoulders. You’re that example of someone who made it out and now you’re on a platform where you can’t fail. I think that even though for me, I’m not a pro golfer or an only child I can resonate so much with both our characters. Now, this book is also quite spicy, and I certainly love that for me. This story is layered with family, faith and community as well too. Legacy Legacy Legacy.
January 11, 2026
love on the Green 🥰
I love a good sports romance but golf wasn’t on my bingo card. Growing up, my dad was a sportsman, and he’d watch it all, including golf.
I enjoyed watching sports with my dad but I hated watching golf I thought it was boring. Now look at Evelyn Latrice, who has penned “The 19th Hole” and I have fallen in love with a pro golfer who let his blue flag fly.
Zaire Cooks, belongs on the green but he’s up against people who look at him like he doesn’t belong in their world. When a mishap happens, he makes headlines and sports commentators talk about him like he’s not listening. He gets a call that’s just what he needs to breathe and reset.
Evelyn Latrice takes us on a journey to Juniper Falls and she paints this place so vividly that you can’t help but feel like you're there. Juniper Falls is where we meet Meadow Green and my girl carrying a lot, until Zaire “Mr. Handle That” indeed handles business and not play about his Marai.
This story was so good and beautifully written. This was to be expected though because Evelyn's pen speaks for itself. So, if you are a reader and you believe in love this is the one for you. 💕
I love a good sports romance but golf wasn’t on my bingo card. Growing up, my dad was a sportsman, and he’d watch it all, including golf.
I enjoyed watching sports with my dad but I hated watching golf I thought it was boring. Now look at Evelyn Latrice, who has penned “The 19th Hole” and I have fallen in love with a pro golfer who let his blue flag fly.
Zaire Cooks, belongs on the green but he’s up against people who look at him like he doesn’t belong in their world. When a mishap happens, he makes headlines and sports commentators talk about him like he’s not listening. He gets a call that’s just what he needs to breathe and reset.
Evelyn Latrice takes us on a journey to Juniper Falls and she paints this place so vividly that you can’t help but feel like you're there. Juniper Falls is where we meet Meadow Green and my girl carrying a lot, until Zaire “Mr. Handle That” indeed handles business and not play about his Marai.
This story was so good and beautifully written. This was to be expected though because Evelyn's pen speaks for itself. So, if you are a reader and you believe in love this is the one for you. 💕
January 11, 2026
1000/10 most definitely recommend!!!!!!!!!
This book, I can’t even describe how I’m feeling right now. I don’t normally leave typed reviews, the most I do is leave stars, but after finishing this book I couldn’t just leave without saying something. I’m not new to the Evelyn Latrice universe I’ve read all of her books, but I can say this was my most favorite book by her. The story line, the plot, the characters, the emotion, the tears, the love, the heartache, the love of the game, the friendships, is something that literally made this book. This was one of the best books on kindle I’ve read and I’ve read a whole lot of them. I don’t think I’ve ever cried this much reading a book and I’m not even mad about it because they weren’t angry tears, they were happy tears, sad tears and excited tears, for just being able to watch Zaire and Meadow experience that type of Black Love that they deserved. Their growth and love really shaped this book from the beginning to the end. And I thank you Evelyn Latrice for once again giving me something to read and enjoy, and for setting the standard high for me this New Year. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book, I can’t even describe how I’m feeling right now. I don’t normally leave typed reviews, the most I do is leave stars, but after finishing this book I couldn’t just leave without saying something. I’m not new to the Evelyn Latrice universe I’ve read all of her books, but I can say this was my most favorite book by her. The story line, the plot, the characters, the emotion, the tears, the love, the heartache, the love of the game, the friendships, is something that literally made this book. This was one of the best books on kindle I’ve read and I’ve read a whole lot of them. I don’t think I’ve ever cried this much reading a book and I’m not even mad about it because they weren’t angry tears, they were happy tears, sad tears and excited tears, for just being able to watch Zaire and Meadow experience that type of Black Love that they deserved. Their growth and love really shaped this book from the beginning to the end. And I thank you Evelyn Latrice for once again giving me something to read and enjoy, and for setting the standard high for me this New Year. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 12, 2026
ARC Review
“The 19th Hole” x @evelynlatrice
I sat with this one for a few and took it in doses. Parts of Meadow was me and I her, and for some of you she maybe part of you as well. Women, especially black women take on the weight of the world and pour from empty cups. Meadow was the Friend, Voice of reason, Teacher, The Pilot (crop dusting), The daughter and the caretaker.
In the 19th Hole find out what it means to live in a beautiful prison for Meadow and in a dark prison full of pain, secrets and the weight of the world for Zaire. Will the 19th hole become their quiet and safe place to share together when they need to silence the disappointment, disapprovals, and their own mental demons?
For Zaire, young, black and cripping, let’s face it he is a master of many and golf is his game. But how can you focus when the world is too loud and the weight of the past and the hood is weighing you down? How can you be everything for everyone but yourself?
Will the 🔑 to set them free from their own prison be love or will they sabotage their freedom?
“The 19th Hole” x @evelynlatrice
I sat with this one for a few and took it in doses. Parts of Meadow was me and I her, and for some of you she maybe part of you as well. Women, especially black women take on the weight of the world and pour from empty cups. Meadow was the Friend, Voice of reason, Teacher, The Pilot (crop dusting), The daughter and the caretaker.
In the 19th Hole find out what it means to live in a beautiful prison for Meadow and in a dark prison full of pain, secrets and the weight of the world for Zaire. Will the 19th hole become their quiet and safe place to share together when they need to silence the disappointment, disapprovals, and their own mental demons?
For Zaire, young, black and cripping, let’s face it he is a master of many and golf is his game. But how can you focus when the world is too loud and the weight of the past and the hood is weighing you down? How can you be everything for everyone but yourself?
Will the 🔑 to set them free from their own prison be love or will they sabotage their freedom?
January 11, 2026
Did it really have to end!
If you’ve read an Evelyn Latrice work then you already know how this went.
Heavy. Seen. Worthy. Taking up space. Revelation. Revitalizing. Deserving. Black as H311. Victory. Healing.
These are a few words that come to mind after reaching the end and as with anything I’ve read by the author, it requires some reflection on my behalf. The way the words she’s penned flow out to demonstrate healing, growth and a number of other things associated with the Black experience, always leaves me grappling with the need for more and straddling the line of being grateful the work even exists.
Some may see it as just another fiction book/story/title but I see it as a story told that reminds us of all we endure being Black in this world and your best bet is to stand tall on that ish, head held high and pressing forward. Make them respect you and say your name, while remaining true to your most authentic Black self. Where do we go from here!!!
If you’ve read an Evelyn Latrice work then you already know how this went.
Heavy. Seen. Worthy. Taking up space. Revelation. Revitalizing. Deserving. Black as H311. Victory. Healing.
These are a few words that come to mind after reaching the end and as with anything I’ve read by the author, it requires some reflection on my behalf. The way the words she’s penned flow out to demonstrate healing, growth and a number of other things associated with the Black experience, always leaves me grappling with the need for more and straddling the line of being grateful the work even exists.
Some may see it as just another fiction book/story/title but I see it as a story told that reminds us of all we endure being Black in this world and your best bet is to stand tall on that ish, head held high and pressing forward. Make them respect you and say your name, while remaining true to your most authentic Black self. Where do we go from here!!!
January 9, 2026
Loved It 🤍
When it comes to storytelling, Evelyn Latrice never misses…The 19th Hole is no exception. This book felt personal to me for several reasons. The gems sprinkled throughout the story were powerful, relatable, and beautifully written.
Both the main male and female characters are navigating life while holding their breath. Carrying the weight of responsibility, pain, and expectations on their shoulders. They’re surviving, not truly living, until they find one another. Through their connection, they finally learn how to breathe again.
Love didn’t magically erase their problems, but it gave them space to rest, heal, and be seen. The 19th Hole is a beautiful reminder that sometimes love isn’t about saving someone, it’s about finally having a place to exhale.
Read the book! 🤍
When it comes to storytelling, Evelyn Latrice never misses…The 19th Hole is no exception. This book felt personal to me for several reasons. The gems sprinkled throughout the story were powerful, relatable, and beautifully written.
Both the main male and female characters are navigating life while holding their breath. Carrying the weight of responsibility, pain, and expectations on their shoulders. They’re surviving, not truly living, until they find one another. Through their connection, they finally learn how to breathe again.
Love didn’t magically erase their problems, but it gave them space to rest, heal, and be seen. The 19th Hole is a beautiful reminder that sometimes love isn’t about saving someone, it’s about finally having a place to exhale.
Read the book! 🤍
January 10, 2026
This is storytelling! BLACK storytelling 💙💙💙💙💙
We live in a world where our Blackness isn’t appreciated unless it’s beneficial to them. We live in a world where our love isn’t good enough to find each other. Where fairytale love is only accepted by someone who doesn’t look like us. This is a true love story where inherited pain, loss, and success meet each other and it’s all black yall. Evelyn Latrice, ma’am, this was GOOD!!!!!!
This was a story that will forever resonate with me. The characters FELT real, their struggles felt REAL and the challenges of being unapologetically them in more ways than one even FELT REAL. Zaire and Meadow I love them downnnnnn💙 So you need to read it, and read it again, and again and again. I need my physical copy as soon as it’s available 💙💙💙
We live in a world where our Blackness isn’t appreciated unless it’s beneficial to them. We live in a world where our love isn’t good enough to find each other. Where fairytale love is only accepted by someone who doesn’t look like us. This is a true love story where inherited pain, loss, and success meet each other and it’s all black yall. Evelyn Latrice, ma’am, this was GOOD!!!!!!
This was a story that will forever resonate with me. The characters FELT real, their struggles felt REAL and the challenges of being unapologetically them in more ways than one even FELT REAL. Zaire and Meadow I love them downnnnnn💙 So you need to read it, and read it again, and again and again. I need my physical copy as soon as it’s available 💙💙💙
January 10, 2026
Black Cinderella Luv Story
This book was so beautifully written . I feel so seen , I resonated with Meadow’s character so much as an oldest girl myself who is hyper independent . Zaire is my mannn . I loved the awareness this book brought about real life Black Struggles , I loved all the blackness in this book . Truthfully I loved everything about this book . I don’t know nothing about gold but baby I was locked innnn !!!This book was everything to me and it definitely will stick with me . No notes at allll , this truly was a Black Cinderella Love story and not in a Disney way but in a deeper way that a Woman from Memphis is able to resonate . Thank you Ms.Evelyn for writing this book the way you did !! 👏🏾👏🏾🤎🤎🤎🤎
This book was so beautifully written . I feel so seen , I resonated with Meadow’s character so much as an oldest girl myself who is hyper independent . Zaire is my mannn . I loved the awareness this book brought about real life Black Struggles , I loved all the blackness in this book . Truthfully I loved everything about this book . I don’t know nothing about gold but baby I was locked innnn !!!This book was everything to me and it definitely will stick with me . No notes at allll , this truly was a Black Cinderella Love story and not in a Disney way but in a deeper way that a Woman from Memphis is able to resonate . Thank you Ms.Evelyn for writing this book the way you did !! 👏🏾👏🏾🤎🤎🤎🤎
January 19, 2026
This was a great book and so unapologetically black. Little black boy from LA with a dad locked up and a mom working hard to keep her son’s dreams alive. That little boy grew up to compete in spaces they never wanted to see him in and they made sure he knew. He lost his way a lil but was guiding right back with the help of people who looked just like him. Fmc is the typical strong black woman carrying the world on her shoulders. Duty to family, their land and their legacy. She was independent for so long that she fought to hold onto it. Zaire brought her into her soft girl era. He built with her and for her. There’s so much I can say about this book, but I really enjoyed this. I had all the feels. Evelyn Latrice is that girl.
January 12, 2026
Whew this read was a breath of fresh air. Evelyn is the spokesperson for all little black girls and black boys of the world. The way she tells a story and make all feel seen and heard.
Zaire is the man of all men. He is intentional, caring, and downright sexy. I love how humble he is. Going from a city background to the country and he never acted as if he was better than anyone. His eagerness to offer a helping hand and reaffirm his woman was so beautiful. He is starting my top MMC's for the year.
I love Meadow‼️ She was a mirror to myself. Smart mouth, rough exterior but, craving a softness that terrifies her to her core. The fear is gutwrenching after so many disappointments. Finding a safe place in Zaire allowed her to be her true self without the extra. I loved this book so much. Definitely a five-star read ‼️
Zaire is the man of all men. He is intentional, caring, and downright sexy. I love how humble he is. Going from a city background to the country and he never acted as if he was better than anyone. His eagerness to offer a helping hand and reaffirm his woman was so beautiful. He is starting my top MMC's for the year.
I love Meadow‼️ She was a mirror to myself. Smart mouth, rough exterior but, craving a softness that terrifies her to her core. The fear is gutwrenching after so many disappointments. Finding a safe place in Zaire allowed her to be her true self without the extra. I loved this book so much. Definitely a five-star read ‼️
January 11, 2026
Marai & Her Northstar
This is my first Evelyn Latrice book and now I have to go back and read everything by her. I couldn’t put it down. This book was more than a love story. It was a love letter to Black women on how to shift the weight of the world from their shoulders. This is love without parameters. This is legacy, life lines, and lessons wrapped in one. I broke. I cried. I was restored….and something in me healed along with Meadow & Zaire. This book felt like falling in love for the first time. Staying on the phone until you both fell asleep. Something do unexpected but deserved.
This is my first Evelyn Latrice book and now I have to go back and read everything by her. I couldn’t put it down. This book was more than a love story. It was a love letter to Black women on how to shift the weight of the world from their shoulders. This is love without parameters. This is legacy, life lines, and lessons wrapped in one. I broke. I cried. I was restored….and something in me healed along with Meadow & Zaire. This book felt like falling in love for the first time. Staying on the phone until you both fell asleep. Something do unexpected but deserved.
January 12, 2026
A Hole-in-One Love Story ⛳💙
The MFC Meadow worked my nerves for about 50% of this book 😩. I get that she feels like she has the weight of the world on her shoulders, but girl… fix the attitude. Sometimes she was doing way too much.
But BABY Zaire? Zaire, Zaire, Zaire… whew. I loved that man. He was patient, fine, and exactly what this story needed. He balanced Meadow out and honestly kept me turning the pages.
Even when Meadow had me side-eyeing her, the story stayed engaging, emotional, and real. Evelyn Latrice knows how to write messy, flawed characters you still get attached to.
Overall, this was a great book—frustrating in the best way and totally worth the read.
The MFC Meadow worked my nerves for about 50% of this book 😩. I get that she feels like she has the weight of the world on her shoulders, but girl… fix the attitude. Sometimes she was doing way too much.
But BABY Zaire? Zaire, Zaire, Zaire… whew. I loved that man. He was patient, fine, and exactly what this story needed. He balanced Meadow out and honestly kept me turning the pages.
Even when Meadow had me side-eyeing her, the story stayed engaging, emotional, and real. Evelyn Latrice knows how to write messy, flawed characters you still get attached to.
Overall, this was a great book—frustrating in the best way and totally worth the read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews