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Still
Sometimes, a single moment is the start of forever.
Everett
Legacy is carved into my bloodline, centuries deep.
Power, wealth, duty—none of it feels like a choice.
Now I wear the crown of LEVMARK, the empire my family built, and I’m tasked with creating what my mother once dreamed of—a fine jewelry line that will outlast us all.
But the designer I need is the one woman I should keep at a distance.
The woman I’ve already saved once, though she never knew my name.
River
Design is the language of my soul.
Metal, fire, and vision—I bend them into beauty, creating pieces that whisper of who I am and who I want to become.
But in this industry, ambition comes at a cost.
Blacklisted. Betrayed. Still, I rise.
And now my dream collides with him—the man who could shatter my defenses, or set everything I’ve built ablaze.
This is our story.
One night.
One secret.
One love.
A story forged in fire and etched in steel.
"Still" is a billionaire, contemporary Black romance.
Everett
Legacy is carved into my bloodline, centuries deep.
Power, wealth, duty—none of it feels like a choice.
Now I wear the crown of LEVMARK, the empire my family built, and I’m tasked with creating what my mother once dreamed of—a fine jewelry line that will outlast us all.
But the designer I need is the one woman I should keep at a distance.
The woman I’ve already saved once, though she never knew my name.
River
Design is the language of my soul.
Metal, fire, and vision—I bend them into beauty, creating pieces that whisper of who I am and who I want to become.
But in this industry, ambition comes at a cost.
Blacklisted. Betrayed. Still, I rise.
And now my dream collides with him—the man who could shatter my defenses, or set everything I’ve built ablaze.
This is our story.
One night.
One secret.
One love.
A story forged in fire and etched in steel.
"Still" is a billionaire, contemporary Black romance.
- GenresRomance
350 pages, Hardcover
Published March 16, 2026
16 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
About the author
Rita A. Gordon
14 books44 followersRita Gordon writes bold, beautiful love stories where Black women shine, passion runs deep, and happily-ever-afters are non-negotiable. A former corporate baddie turned globe-trotting storyteller, she serves up contemporary Black and interracial romances infused with luxury, culture, and emotional heat. From billionaire temptation to forced-proximity sparks to hard-won second chances, Rita’s books deliver swoon-worthy romance with the richness of real life.
When she’s not penning page-turning HEAs, Rita is sketching intricate florals for her coloring books, chasing new passport stamps, and giving back to her community. Her stories celebrate high-achieving women, irresistible chemistry, and love that feels like forever.
To learn more about the author, visit ritaagordon.com
This author page was created by and is monitored by the author, Rita A. Gordon.
my website.
When she’s not penning page-turning HEAs, Rita is sketching intricate florals for her coloring books, chasing new passport stamps, and giving back to her community. Her stories celebrate high-achieving women, irresistible chemistry, and love that feels like forever.
To learn more about the author, visit ritaagordon.com
This author page was created by and is monitored by the author, Rita A. Gordon.
my website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Did Not Finish
March 17, 2026I DNF’d Still at 59%.
Overall, I enjoyed the concept of this book. There are elements of a Black woman making it in a field you don’t see a lot of us in and being swept off her feet by a Black man with money and eyes for only her. There is family drama, family trauma, and business politics. All things I love reading about!
Unfortunately, as much as I really wanted to love the execution of this book, it fell short for me. The dialogue was stilted and unnatural, River and Everett were both really unlikable at times in a way that became unbalanced with the moments I did like them, and the plot was just really slow-moving and not super engaging. There is a lot of minutiae around the luxury jewelry brand they work at, but Everett’s glitzy billionaire lifestyle feels flat at best. The love story is supposed to feel long-standing and star-crossed, but ultimately doesn’t feel solid enough to have rested so much of the story on. I’m a reader who is in the middle about a lack of communication causing conflict in romance novels, but I also feel like the conflicts presented here were so easy to get past for adults who communicate in even the most marginal ways. For a large chunk of the book River is going through things with her family that Everett has no idea about, just to shed some light on how little they communicated about some of the most mundane things.
I think this book could be really enjoyable for someone who loves a slow-moving novel they can stay in for a while. It’s low stakes and a relatively easy breezy read because there’s not a lot of drama (outside of very specific areas) and the characters seem like they stay together once they get together—again, I did not finish so please don’t quote me.
Thank you to Good Girls PR and the author for the ARC!
Overall, I enjoyed the concept of this book. There are elements of a Black woman making it in a field you don’t see a lot of us in and being swept off her feet by a Black man with money and eyes for only her. There is family drama, family trauma, and business politics. All things I love reading about!
Unfortunately, as much as I really wanted to love the execution of this book, it fell short for me. The dialogue was stilted and unnatural, River and Everett were both really unlikable at times in a way that became unbalanced with the moments I did like them, and the plot was just really slow-moving and not super engaging. There is a lot of minutiae around the luxury jewelry brand they work at, but Everett’s glitzy billionaire lifestyle feels flat at best. The love story is supposed to feel long-standing and star-crossed, but ultimately doesn’t feel solid enough to have rested so much of the story on. I’m a reader who is in the middle about a lack of communication causing conflict in romance novels, but I also feel like the conflicts presented here were so easy to get past for adults who communicate in even the most marginal ways. For a large chunk of the book River is going through things with her family that Everett has no idea about, just to shed some light on how little they communicated about some of the most mundane things.
I think this book could be really enjoyable for someone who loves a slow-moving novel they can stay in for a while. It’s low stakes and a relatively easy breezy read because there’s not a lot of drama (outside of very specific areas) and the characters seem like they stay together once they get together—again, I did not finish so please don’t quote me.
Thank you to Good Girls PR and the author for the ARC!
March 18, 2026
“You’re not just beautiful, River. You’re… whole. Finished. Perfect in a way that doesn’t ask for more.”
Wow. Black love at its finest.
Seeing black wealth with such strong values and patience and trust… was beautiful.
I loved how Everett showed his loved, quietly, in the background and through acts of service. Love doesn’t need to be loud or obnoxious to be felt.
River was so strong and after the battles she faced deserved a strong man to treat her well.
I related so much to River and wanting someone to show up for me and was so happy that she got that happy ending she deserved.
So many good quotes and definitely a solid read.
Book Rating: 4/5
Spice Rating: 3/5
Wow. Black love at its finest.
Seeing black wealth with such strong values and patience and trust… was beautiful.
I loved how Everett showed his loved, quietly, in the background and through acts of service. Love doesn’t need to be loud or obnoxious to be felt.
River was so strong and after the battles she faced deserved a strong man to treat her well.
I related so much to River and wanting someone to show up for me and was so happy that she got that happy ending she deserved.
So many good quotes and definitely a solid read.
Book Rating: 4/5
Spice Rating: 3/5
April 27, 2026
This beautiful slow burn introduced readers to River, Everett and the world of jewelry design. From the minute she bumped into her boss at LEVMARK, River was drawn to Everett and tried her best to avoid him. Food deliveries, meeting after meeting, floral arrangements on top of floral arrangements, and precious stone after precious stone…proved that impossible. Everett enjoyed watching her in her element, while exposing her to the benefits of his billionaire status. However, he’s holding a secret that may alter the future of their business and personal relationship.
This is my introduction to the @rgordonshaw catalog, but it definitely won’t be the last. I found myself rooting for these two people, and crying more times than I’m willing to admit. I learned about little about the jewelry making business, as I prayed for this type of love to find me. My favorite character was Everett and Elise, because she knew what he brother needed, even when he didn’t. This book easily slid its way onto my Best Read of 2026.
This is my introduction to the @rgordonshaw catalog, but it definitely won’t be the last. I found myself rooting for these two people, and crying more times than I’m willing to admit. I learned about little about the jewelry making business, as I prayed for this type of love to find me. My favorite character was Everett and Elise, because she knew what he brother needed, even when he didn’t. This book easily slid its way onto my Best Read of 2026.
March 22, 2026
Loved the FMMC & MMC! The plot was great and I loved that the our MMC held space, love, and growth for our FMMC. I gave it three stars as it was very much slow burn and the I really felt parts of the plot and story line wasn’t progressing quickly, but rather very slow and steady. I love a fast paced with mild slow burn. Found family in this work romance was great!
Thank you for the ARC Good Girls PR!
Thank you for the ARC Good Girls PR!
April 2, 2026
This is my first
The book is the first by this author. I liked the story, and the author is quite descriptive in her writing. I did not always feel the soul stirring connection the author describes. Everett was an anomaly for me, mostly. River was unnerving at times in the way she processed things in her life. I took longer to read the story as pauses helped to fortify the storyline. Overall. the story was good. 3.75 stars..
The book is the first by this author. I liked the story, and the author is quite descriptive in her writing. I did not always feel the soul stirring connection the author describes. Everett was an anomaly for me, mostly. River was unnerving at times in the way she processed things in her life. I took longer to read the story as pauses helped to fortify the storyline. Overall. the story was good. 3.75 stars..
March 7, 2026
Okay first off I want to say this is the book for someone. That someone is not me but that’s because I like a little more action in my plot. This is for the people that love a quiet love with main characters that are there for each other through the rough patch’s while they work to grow their relationship in the confines of the upper echelon of society. Personally it just wasn’t totally my vibe and I wish there was more action in the plot OR more tension between the two main characters.
April 15, 2026
ARC Review
I really wanted to like this book, but found myself skim reading the majority of it. There was A LOT of business talk and inner monologues that I completely skipped because I would get lost in the weeds. I understand that some of it was needed for plot but much of it could have been left out.
I do love the billionaire boyfriend and jewelry designer theme. I’m reading more jewelry designers in romance and it’s new and exciting. I liked the point of legacy for Everett’s family after the passing of his mom.
The characters were lovable. The plot interesting. For someone in the business world this might hit, but for me it made it hard to get through. The spice was good but I prefer more dialogue during the scenes to spice it up.
I really wanted to like this book, but found myself skim reading the majority of it. There was A LOT of business talk and inner monologues that I completely skipped because I would get lost in the weeds. I understand that some of it was needed for plot but much of it could have been left out.
I do love the billionaire boyfriend and jewelry designer theme. I’m reading more jewelry designers in romance and it’s new and exciting. I liked the point of legacy for Everett’s family after the passing of his mom.
The characters were lovable. The plot interesting. For someone in the business world this might hit, but for me it made it hard to get through. The spice was good but I prefer more dialogue during the scenes to spice it up.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Babes… this one had me in my feelings.
Still is one of those romances that feels quiet at first but then suddenly hits you with all the yearning, devotion, and emotional depth you didn’t see coming.
River is an incredibly easy heroine to root for. She’s a jewelry designer whose creativity is everything to her, but the industry hasn’t exactly been kind. After a betrayal she’s still fighting for her place and refusing to let anyone dull her shine. Watching her rebuild her career and step back into her talent was honestly inspiring.
Then there’s Everett.
And let me tell you… this man has been BAD for River for a decade.
Everett carries the weight of a massive legacy on his shoulders as the head of a powerful luxury empire, but underneath the wealth and influence is a man who never forgot the woman he once saved.
When their paths collide again years later, the tension between them is immediate and undeniable.
What I loved most about their relationship is how much attention they give each other. The way Everett supports River’s creativity, the way River pushes Everett to be more than just the man bound to his family’s expectations. Their connection feels thoughtful and mature rather than rushed.
And the backdrop of luxury jewelry design was such a unique element for a romance. The descriptions of shaping metal, fire, and gemstones into something meaningful mirrored their relationship perfectly. Two people taking the broken pieces of their pasts and forging something beautiful together.
One of the most emotional moments for me was near the end when River delivers her speech and everything finally comes full circle. The way she walks in with Everett’s father on her arm absolutely wrecked me in the best way. It was one of those moments where you can feel how much growth and love led to that exact second.
This story is romantic, emotional, and full of quiet intensity. If you love romances with deep yearning, powerful Black love, and characters who truly see and support each other, this one will absolutely hit.
Still is one of those romances that feels quiet at first but then suddenly hits you with all the yearning, devotion, and emotional depth you didn’t see coming.
River is an incredibly easy heroine to root for. She’s a jewelry designer whose creativity is everything to her, but the industry hasn’t exactly been kind. After a betrayal she’s still fighting for her place and refusing to let anyone dull her shine. Watching her rebuild her career and step back into her talent was honestly inspiring.
Then there’s Everett.
And let me tell you… this man has been BAD for River for a decade.
Everett carries the weight of a massive legacy on his shoulders as the head of a powerful luxury empire, but underneath the wealth and influence is a man who never forgot the woman he once saved.
When their paths collide again years later, the tension between them is immediate and undeniable.
What I loved most about their relationship is how much attention they give each other. The way Everett supports River’s creativity, the way River pushes Everett to be more than just the man bound to his family’s expectations. Their connection feels thoughtful and mature rather than rushed.
And the backdrop of luxury jewelry design was such a unique element for a romance. The descriptions of shaping metal, fire, and gemstones into something meaningful mirrored their relationship perfectly. Two people taking the broken pieces of their pasts and forging something beautiful together.
One of the most emotional moments for me was near the end when River delivers her speech and everything finally comes full circle. The way she walks in with Everett’s father on her arm absolutely wrecked me in the best way. It was one of those moments where you can feel how much growth and love led to that exact second.
This story is romantic, emotional, and full of quiet intensity. If you love romances with deep yearning, powerful Black love, and characters who truly see and support each other, this one will absolutely hit.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Tropes: Age-Gap, Second Chance, Workplace Romance, Love/Attraction at First Sight, He falls first, Years of Yearning
I always enjoy books by this author! Rita A. Gordon gives her readers an elegantly crafted book in her latest work, Still. The characters are richly drawn, and the action is in turn languid, passionate and deliberate. From humble beginnings and career shattering setbacks River has honed her craft as a premier jewelry designer. From old money and even older expectations, after one meeting Everett has quietly surveilled River’s path, keeping a careful eye on her progress as she makes magic using stones and precious metals. Everett is all but smothered by his responsibilities as the newly crowned head of LEVMARK, the very name proclaiming luxury and excess. However, with all of his gifts of pedigree and status, his one-time encounter with River is just as important as his heritage. These two amazing people come together in a work environment and their hidden commonalities and attraction shines through. Will they be able to form a secure and lasting connection or will secrets and class differences make that dream impossible?
Conclusion:
The tension and angst in this book are absolutely palpable. Everett has spent years pining while River spent those same years working hard and standing up for herself as a woman and an artist. Their reintegration into each other’s lives appeared to be more akin to fate than happenstance. I enjoyed the unselfishness of their love as they allowed the other to take what they needed to be whole. They were both “beautifully broken” but became one together. Final words, Ms. Gordon is creating a stellar catalogue of readable stories. In Still, she features a magnetic couple with sizzling chemistry and an enviable devotion. I look forward to the next story by Ms. Gordon.
I received this eARC of Still from Rita Gordon and Good Girls PR (opinions are all my own).
https://theretiredreader.com/f/still-...
I always enjoy books by this author! Rita A. Gordon gives her readers an elegantly crafted book in her latest work, Still. The characters are richly drawn, and the action is in turn languid, passionate and deliberate. From humble beginnings and career shattering setbacks River has honed her craft as a premier jewelry designer. From old money and even older expectations, after one meeting Everett has quietly surveilled River’s path, keeping a careful eye on her progress as she makes magic using stones and precious metals. Everett is all but smothered by his responsibilities as the newly crowned head of LEVMARK, the very name proclaiming luxury and excess. However, with all of his gifts of pedigree and status, his one-time encounter with River is just as important as his heritage. These two amazing people come together in a work environment and their hidden commonalities and attraction shines through. Will they be able to form a secure and lasting connection or will secrets and class differences make that dream impossible?
Conclusion:
The tension and angst in this book are absolutely palpable. Everett has spent years pining while River spent those same years working hard and standing up for herself as a woman and an artist. Their reintegration into each other’s lives appeared to be more akin to fate than happenstance. I enjoyed the unselfishness of their love as they allowed the other to take what they needed to be whole. They were both “beautifully broken” but became one together. Final words, Ms. Gordon is creating a stellar catalogue of readable stories. In Still, she features a magnetic couple with sizzling chemistry and an enviable devotion. I look forward to the next story by Ms. Gordon.
I received this eARC of Still from Rita Gordon and Good Girls PR (opinions are all my own).
https://theretiredreader.com/f/still-...
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Still by Rita A. Gordon is a beautifully written contemporary romance that blends ambition, vulnerability, and undeniable chemistry. The story pulls you into a world of power, creativity, and emotional healing while exploring what happens when two people from very different struggles collide at exactly the right moment.
River is such a compelling heroine. Her passion for jewelry design shines through every page and you can feel how deeply her craft means to her. After facing betrayal and being blacklisted, her determination to rise again is inspiring. She refuses to let the industry break her, and that strength makes it easy to root for her from the beginning.
Everett brings an entirely different kind of pressure into the story. As the head of a powerful legacy built over generations, the weight of family expectations sits heavily on his shoulders. I loved how layered his character felt. Beneath the power and wealth is a man who is thoughtful, protective, and drawn to River in a way he cannot ignore.
The dynamic between Everett and River is where the story really shines. Their connection feels intense but also thoughtful, built on admiration for each other’s talents and resilience. Watching their relationship unfold as they navigate ambition, secrets, and vulnerability kept me invested the whole way through.
The world of fine jewelry design also adds such a unique backdrop to the romance. The descriptions of creativity, craftsmanship, and turning raw materials into something beautiful mirror the emotional journey the characters go through.
Still is a heartfelt story about perseverance, love, and the courage to trust someone with your dreams. It is emotional, romantic, and full of powerful moments that linger long after the final page.
Still by Rita A. Gordon is a beautifully written contemporary romance that blends ambition, vulnerability, and undeniable chemistry. The story pulls you into a world of power, creativity, and emotional healing while exploring what happens when two people from very different struggles collide at exactly the right moment.
River is such a compelling heroine. Her passion for jewelry design shines through every page and you can feel how deeply her craft means to her. After facing betrayal and being blacklisted, her determination to rise again is inspiring. She refuses to let the industry break her, and that strength makes it easy to root for her from the beginning.
Everett brings an entirely different kind of pressure into the story. As the head of a powerful legacy built over generations, the weight of family expectations sits heavily on his shoulders. I loved how layered his character felt. Beneath the power and wealth is a man who is thoughtful, protective, and drawn to River in a way he cannot ignore.
The dynamic between Everett and River is where the story really shines. Their connection feels intense but also thoughtful, built on admiration for each other’s talents and resilience. Watching their relationship unfold as they navigate ambition, secrets, and vulnerability kept me invested the whole way through.
The world of fine jewelry design also adds such a unique backdrop to the romance. The descriptions of creativity, craftsmanship, and turning raw materials into something beautiful mirror the emotional journey the characters go through.
Still is a heartfelt story about perseverance, love, and the courage to trust someone with your dreams. It is emotional, romantic, and full of powerful moments that linger long after the final page.
Review of advance copy received from Author
He's been down bad for her for a decade. She's at the top of her creative game... but now she's his employee (they get over that part quickly and in a way that makes sense). He's got secrets. She's got family stuff. It's a bit of a slow burn. They pay attention to each other in the best ways. Both of their love languages are touch and gift-giving (and also acts of service) - ok, they're mature and gorgeous and work through the bs and I loved them.
This is one of those books where the world-building (luxurious, elite society, San Fran - London) settles the reader perfectly into context. There is so much tension and yearning in the first part of the book that their connection makes so much sense (if you love "love at first sight," you're going to adore this one). Partners stepping back to allow their partner to grow / knowing that until a person really knows themselves, it'll be difficult to be the right partner/settled in your own sense of self... ::Chef's kiss:: - it's very right person/wrong time (so if you love those storylines, you will love this one too!). The friend-family group is so tight-knit too, that you really get a sense of the side characters throughout, and I can't wait for their books too (um, hello Ethan and Josh).
If you like Brittanee Nicole's Langfield brothers, I have a feeling you'll love the Titans!
10/10 will read Rita Gordon again and again. I literally devoured this book in 48 hours.
*grateful for an eARC of Still from Rita Gordon and Good Girls PR (opinions are all my own)
This is one of those books where the world-building (luxurious, elite society, San Fran - London) settles the reader perfectly into context. There is so much tension and yearning in the first part of the book that their connection makes so much sense (if you love "love at first sight," you're going to adore this one). Partners stepping back to allow their partner to grow / knowing that until a person really knows themselves, it'll be difficult to be the right partner/settled in your own sense of self... ::Chef's kiss:: - it's very right person/wrong time (so if you love those storylines, you will love this one too!). The friend-family group is so tight-knit too, that you really get a sense of the side characters throughout, and I can't wait for their books too (um, hello Ethan and Josh).
If you like Brittanee Nicole's Langfield brothers, I have a feeling you'll love the Titans!
10/10 will read Rita Gordon again and again. I literally devoured this book in 48 hours.
*grateful for an eARC of Still from Rita Gordon and Good Girls PR (opinions are all my own)
March 18, 2026
River Stevens is the kind of character that hits a little too close to home—in the best way. A jewelry maker trying to prove she belongs in rooms that were never meant for her, she carries that quiet, aching imposter syndrome that makes every success feel fragile. From $19 dresses to high-stakes spaces, her journey feels raw, relatable, and real.
Enter Everett Whitman: powerful, controlled, and convinced that distance equals protection. He knows River is exactly who he needs… but instead of pulling her closer, he keeps her just out of reach—thinking he’s shielding her from the darker corners of his world.
The tension? Incredible. The forced proximity trope delivers everything—stolen glances, unspoken feelings, And when they can’t avoid each other anymore? The chemistry absolutely simmers.
But this isn’t just romance—it’s layered with secrets, power dynamics, and the kind of revelations that shift everything. When the truth finally comes out, River is left questioning not just Everett, but herself and everything she fought for.
It’s emotional, a little messy, and full of tension that keeps you turning pages. If you love strong-but-vulnerable heroines, broody protectors, and relationships that blur the line between love and control… this one is for you.
Enter Everett Whitman: powerful, controlled, and convinced that distance equals protection. He knows River is exactly who he needs… but instead of pulling her closer, he keeps her just out of reach—thinking he’s shielding her from the darker corners of his world.
The tension? Incredible. The forced proximity trope delivers everything—stolen glances, unspoken feelings, And when they can’t avoid each other anymore? The chemistry absolutely simmers.
But this isn’t just romance—it’s layered with secrets, power dynamics, and the kind of revelations that shift everything. When the truth finally comes out, River is left questioning not just Everett, but herself and everything she fought for.
It’s emotional, a little messy, and full of tension that keeps you turning pages. If you love strong-but-vulnerable heroines, broody protectors, and relationships that blur the line between love and control… this one is for you.
March 20, 2026
I received this ARC from Good Girls PR for an honest review.
I read Still by Rita A. Gordon, and overall, it landed right in the middle for me.
This is a softer, more mellow romance with a slow-burn pace. While I can appreciate that style, I personally prefer stories with more tension and emotional or plot-driven momentum. For much of the book, the relationship development felt steady but lacked the kind of depth or conflict that keeps me fully engaged.
The family subplot for the FMC didn’t add much to the overall stakes, and at times, her characterization felt a bit younger than her age, which made it harder for me to fully connect. The MMC was likable, but neither main character stood out in a particularly memorable way for me.
Around the midpoint, the physical relationship becomes more prominent, which may appeal to readers looking for a more sensual romance. However, I would have liked to see more balance between emotional development and plot progression.
That said, I can absolutely see the audience for this book. If you enjoy low-drama, character-focused romances with a gentle tone and steady pacing, this may be a great fit for you—even if it wasn’t quite for me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5)
I read Still by Rita A. Gordon, and overall, it landed right in the middle for me.
This is a softer, more mellow romance with a slow-burn pace. While I can appreciate that style, I personally prefer stories with more tension and emotional or plot-driven momentum. For much of the book, the relationship development felt steady but lacked the kind of depth or conflict that keeps me fully engaged.
The family subplot for the FMC didn’t add much to the overall stakes, and at times, her characterization felt a bit younger than her age, which made it harder for me to fully connect. The MMC was likable, but neither main character stood out in a particularly memorable way for me.
Around the midpoint, the physical relationship becomes more prominent, which may appeal to readers looking for a more sensual romance. However, I would have liked to see more balance between emotional development and plot progression.
That said, I can absolutely see the audience for this book. If you enjoy low-drama, character-focused romances with a gentle tone and steady pacing, this may be a great fit for you—even if it wasn’t quite for me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5)
March 26, 2026
The concept of this novel had everything I’m drawn to. A Black woman thriving in an underrepresented space, a successful Black man fully invested in her and only her. Plus, add family drama and secrets? Yessss. And there were definitely moments that delivered all of that.
I loved seeing Black wealth portrayed with strong values like patience, trust, and quiet strength. Everett’s love—shown through steady actions rather than grand gestures—really stood out. And River’s journey was powerful. She went through so much, and seeing her get the love she deserved felt rewarding.
But the pacing was a bit slow, in my opinion—it took me longer than expected to finish. While I appreciated the detail in the luxury jewelry world, it sometimes dragged for me.
Overall, a solid read with moments I truly enjoyed. If nothing else, Chapter 43 made me swoon. The way Everett described his love for River was swoon-worthy—I could feel his heartache. His adoration was already clear, but that chapter made the angst of the story feel completely worth it.
I loved seeing Black wealth portrayed with strong values like patience, trust, and quiet strength. Everett’s love—shown through steady actions rather than grand gestures—really stood out. And River’s journey was powerful. She went through so much, and seeing her get the love she deserved felt rewarding.
But the pacing was a bit slow, in my opinion—it took me longer than expected to finish. While I appreciated the detail in the luxury jewelry world, it sometimes dragged for me.
Overall, a solid read with moments I truly enjoyed. If nothing else, Chapter 43 made me swoon. The way Everett described his love for River was swoon-worthy—I could feel his heartache. His adoration was already clear, but that chapter made the angst of the story feel completely worth it.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
THE ROMANCE!!! Geeze this book gave me all the feels!!! It’s been a while since I’ve read a book that had this beautiful old school romantic feel! Like that 90’s kinda love. When River asked Everett if she needed her purse and he responded “Not with me.” I literally lol and said “Oooooweee RIVER girl you in trouble!!🤭” The banter!!The longing !! The love !! I really enjoyed reading this! I also loved how Everett allowed River to build herself. The way he protected and reassured her.. Everett what a man!! He couldn’t do no wrong in my book honestly. I was praying River forgave him like she was mad for no reason (she definitely wasn’t.. I’m just Team Everett). Again I can’t get over how romantic this story is like I’ve NEVER experienced love at 1st sight or just knowing but the way it’s written in her has me ready to experience it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was one of those quiet slow burn love stories that I absolutely loved. The older I get the more I enjoy more emotionally driven books. I feel like this book will not be for everyone, BUT i really loved it a lot.
I really loved the the MMC ! Everett is all the things I love - the stoic, quiet, leader in the boardroom and bedroom, type book husbands. His confidence and steadfastness made me swoon!! The FMC had some big reactions to things, where I felt like she was reacting like a teenager/early twenties. I also loved the billionaire trope and him inviting River into his world, without compromising her autonomy and growth as a jewelry artist.
I just feel like this is a tender palatte cleanser of a read that I thoroughly enjoyed! This is my first read by this author and I cannot wait to pick up something else! :)
I really loved the the MMC ! Everett is all the things I love - the stoic, quiet, leader in the boardroom and bedroom, type book husbands. His confidence and steadfastness made me swoon!! The FMC had some big reactions to things, where I felt like she was reacting like a teenager/early twenties. I also loved the billionaire trope and him inviting River into his world, without compromising her autonomy and growth as a jewelry artist.
I just feel like this is a tender palatte cleanser of a read that I thoroughly enjoyed! This is my first read by this author and I cannot wait to pick up something else! :)
Review of advance copy received from Author
Let’s just add Everett to my list of book boyfriends! I enjoyed the pace of this story. This story felt like a warm hug. I loved how patient Everett was with River. He has such a quiet confidence that I adore! The way he allowed river to pursue her dreams, even though she may have wanted things to play out differently at that time. His decision was the best thing for her. He allowed her to be the woman she wanted to be, se was able to go after her dreams and accomplish so much. I love how the relationship flowed. This was a really good slow burn that shows us, anything worth having is worth waiting for. This story is a reminder that not everything needs to move how we want it to move sometimes things just need to flow and it all makes sense in the end.
March 16, 2026
Close proximity
Billionaire
He falls first
Age gap
Workplace romance
He falls first
River and Everett
A well written story with characters that more than one dimensional. They both had so much to offer.
Rita is a jewelry designer. She didn’t let obstacles get in her way. She fought hard to overcome some professional hurdles. A strong determine woman.
Everett is the head of a family legacy. It comes with family and privileges and pressures. Once you get to know him you find a good man. He patient and protective of his relationship with River.
The backdrop of luxury and the jewelry business was well done. The slow burn relationship added a bit of tension. Overall a very enjoyable love story.
Billionaire
He falls first
Age gap
Workplace romance
He falls first
River and Everett
A well written story with characters that more than one dimensional. They both had so much to offer.
Rita is a jewelry designer. She didn’t let obstacles get in her way. She fought hard to overcome some professional hurdles. A strong determine woman.
Everett is the head of a family legacy. It comes with family and privileges and pressures. Once you get to know him you find a good man. He patient and protective of his relationship with River.
The backdrop of luxury and the jewelry business was well done. The slow burn relationship added a bit of tension. Overall a very enjoyable love story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm excited for you to read Still.
It's a story that resonates with me for personal reasons, and I hope you enjoy the characters as much as I did writing them.
Here's a summary.
Sometimes, a single moment is the start of forever.
Ten years ago, Everett Whitmark saved a woman he never forgot. She never saw his face, but she felt him.
Now she's leading the jewelry house meant to honor his late mother, and the truth he's hiding may cost him the love he's waited a decade to claim.
Themes:
🖤Secrets & lies
🖤Billionaire romance
🖤Close proximity / Workplace
🖤He falls first
Still is available on March 16.
It's a story that resonates with me for personal reasons, and I hope you enjoy the characters as much as I did writing them.
Here's a summary.
Sometimes, a single moment is the start of forever.
Ten years ago, Everett Whitmark saved a woman he never forgot. She never saw his face, but she felt him.
Now she's leading the jewelry house meant to honor his late mother, and the truth he's hiding may cost him the love he's waited a decade to claim.
Themes:
🖤Secrets & lies
🖤Billionaire romance
🖤Close proximity / Workplace
🖤He falls first
Still is available on March 16.
March 15, 2026
Still by Rita A. Gordon launches the City of Titans series and also happens to be my first time reading this author. As someone who enjoys a good billionaire romance, I was excited to dive into Everett and River’s story—and I ended up really enjoying the journey. Set against the world of fine jewelry and generational wealth, the story blends romance with themes of ambition, resilience, and trusting the right person with your heart.
River is a jewelry designer with serious talent and determination, and after being betrayed and pushed out of the industry, watching her fight to rebuild her career made her incredibly easy to root for.
Everett carries the weight of family legacy and power, but what I appreciated most about him was how supportive he was of River’s ambitions. He never tried to dim her light—if anything, he wanted to see her shine. And let’s talk about dedication for a second… that man waited ten years for her. TEN. YEARS. Team Everett over here!
Overall, this was a romantic slow-burn that left me curious about where the City of Titans series will go next. Add this one to your TBR.
River is a jewelry designer with serious talent and determination, and after being betrayed and pushed out of the industry, watching her fight to rebuild her career made her incredibly easy to root for.
Everett carries the weight of family legacy and power, but what I appreciated most about him was how supportive he was of River’s ambitions. He never tried to dim her light—if anything, he wanted to see her shine. And let’s talk about dedication for a second… that man waited ten years for her. TEN. YEARS. Team Everett over here!
Overall, this was a romantic slow-burn that left me curious about where the City of Titans series will go next. Add this one to your TBR.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review
Release date - March 16th
Still is book 1 of the City Of Titans series.
I do enjoy a billionaire romance trope and I enjoyed getting to know Everett and River. Their connection was deeply rooted in being allowed time and space to become their own individual people before joining and becoming a unit, a couple.
This was a slow burn romance. I enjoyed moments in this story, and I loved the short chapters. I loved the entry into a world of power and prestige that was showcased through attention to detail, the love of family and support of personal passions.
If you enjoy a slow burn romance, then this might be for you.
Release date - March 16th
Still is book 1 of the City Of Titans series.
I do enjoy a billionaire romance trope and I enjoyed getting to know Everett and River. Their connection was deeply rooted in being allowed time and space to become their own individual people before joining and becoming a unit, a couple.
This was a slow burn romance. I enjoyed moments in this story, and I loved the short chapters. I loved the entry into a world of power and prestige that was showcased through attention to detail, the love of family and support of personal passions.
If you enjoy a slow burn romance, then this might be for you.
March 30, 2026
Still is a second chance romance that blends emotional growth with personal discovery.
The reunion between River and Everett after ten years added an interesting layer of tension, especially with the unexpected workplace connection. Their dynamic felt grounded and realistic, making their story easy to stay invested in.
River’s role as a jewelry designer in a luxury space stood out and added a unique perspective to the story.
The book also included personal and family revelations that brought additional depth and kept the story engaging.
Overall, this was a solid and well-balanced read with both emotional and romantic elements.
⭐️ 4/5 | 🔥 4/5 | 🌶️ 4/5 | 💧 4/5
The reunion between River and Everett after ten years added an interesting layer of tension, especially with the unexpected workplace connection. Their dynamic felt grounded and realistic, making their story easy to stay invested in.
River’s role as a jewelry designer in a luxury space stood out and added a unique perspective to the story.
The book also included personal and family revelations that brought additional depth and kept the story engaging.
Overall, this was a solid and well-balanced read with both emotional and romantic elements.
⭐️ 4/5 | 🔥 4/5 | 🌶️ 4/5 | 💧 4/5
Review of advance copy
We love to see Black women being loved, and he was DOWN BAD.
She was so loved and taken care of 😭😭😭😭
Everett, the man that HE IS. Y’all, he hands down has to be one of my favorites!
It was fun living in the world of the uber wealthy, whose issues were so far different from my own.
I also really liked the structure of the novel; the quotes around love really set the stage.
This was a good palate cleanser; it’d be even better if the third-act break-up didn’t happen, or maybe as big as it was made to be. My girl was OVERREACTING
She was so loved and taken care of 😭😭😭😭
Everett, the man that HE IS. Y’all, he hands down has to be one of my favorites!
It was fun living in the world of the uber wealthy, whose issues were so far different from my own.
I also really liked the structure of the novel; the quotes around love really set the stage.
This was a good palate cleanser; it’d be even better if the third-act break-up didn’t happen, or maybe as big as it was made to be. My girl was OVERREACTING
March 22, 2026
For me, Gordon has done it again with this soft and beautiful love story. I loved how intentional Everett was and how he pined and yearned for her for a decade. River was powerful and stepped into her self and role flawlessly. Gordon’s writing is clear and concise but is mature without it being too wordy or stream of consciousness heavy. The dialogue was pleasant to read and kept me entertained throughout. This book was ease and comfort with a bit of drama mixed in. I stayed up past my bedtime and finished this within three hours. It was absolutely worth the loss of sleep and I would do it again!
April 13, 2026
Still was such a sweet story with a refreshing focus.
I absolutely loved the jewelry designer theme, especially seeing a Black woman represented in that space—it felt special and not something we see often.
This is a billionaire, slow-burn romance, with tender, beautiful moments, and the pacing really allows the relationship to unfold in a soft, meaningful way.
Overall, a gentle, heartfelt romance that shines in its simplicity and representation.
I received this from Good Girls PR in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely loved the jewelry designer theme, especially seeing a Black woman represented in that space—it felt special and not something we see often.
This is a billionaire, slow-burn romance, with tender, beautiful moments, and the pacing really allows the relationship to unfold in a soft, meaningful way.
Overall, a gentle, heartfelt romance that shines in its simplicity and representation.
I received this from Good Girls PR in exchange for an honest review.
March 17, 2026
River and Everett were destined.
This story of waiting for love and allowing it to come to you was beautiful. The writing style is a little choppy, but the story was delightful and the spice was perfect without being overdone. I love seeing a woman loved correctly and Everett was not playing about River. A chance meeting and a decade of hiding in the wings, b and finally they can be together.
I’m not a huge fan of the titans and that way of life. But I get get the way it ties in here.
This story of waiting for love and allowing it to come to you was beautiful. The writing style is a little choppy, but the story was delightful and the spice was perfect without being overdone. I love seeing a woman loved correctly and Everett was not playing about River. A chance meeting and a decade of hiding in the wings, b and finally they can be together.
I’m not a huge fan of the titans and that way of life. But I get get the way it ties in here.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
This was a really sweet story, and a quiet kind of love story. While this maybe the vibe for certain readers, I definitely wanted more throughout the story. I needed a little bit more action and a little less insta-love vibes. Everett and River had a lot of beautiful moments together and I loved seeing them figure things out, I just needed more at some points.
April 5, 2026
this book felt like a Sade Song a Quiet storm brewing and I was here for each moment. you can tell how much they loved one another and I love a book that has a black woman being treated like the queen she is. I love the yearning the doting the way I felt like I was getting confessed to. yeah gimme dat!
thank you Good Girl PR for the e-Arc
thank you Good Girl PR for the e-Arc
April 15, 2026
Rita A. Gordon writes beautifully and is exceptionally skilled in describing things with which I personally have zeroooo familiarity. Additionally, there were moments when the inner monologues gave me butterflies. My only gripe is that there was sometimes..too much description? It all got a bit redundant in the end. I skimmed over the final 100 pages. I enjoyed it nonetheless!
March 31, 2026
loved it!
Ms. Rita had me hooked from the first chapter!! I absolutely loved River and Everett’s love story! I wanted them both to win and get the love that they rightly deserved and they did just that. Highly recommend
Ms. Rita had me hooked from the first chapter!! I absolutely loved River and Everett’s love story! I wanted them both to win and get the love that they rightly deserved and they did just that. Highly recommend
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