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Sweet #1
Bitter Sweet
Serita Jameson is accustomed to disappointment and hard times. Growing up a ward of the state since the age of three months and having no family, hasn’t been a walk in the park. She endures physical and emotional abuse at the hands of her foster parents, but somehow manages to become a college senior with a double major and hold down a job at the police station as a 9-1-1 dispatcher. However, the last semester of her senior year has brought about some challenges that only the strong can survive. After meeting who she believes is the man of her dreams, Shawn Taylor, can she hold it together with all her issues, to keep him? Shawn Taylor has always been the one to take care of everyone. After the death of his mother and having an absentee father, Shawn is forced into early adulthood at the age of fourteen. His hero mentality, however, pushes him into the wrong lifestyle. Selling drugs for the biggest dealer in Beaumont helps Shawn take care of his elderly grandmother and gets him and his brother Devin through college. Now a struggling photographer and artist, he’s offered a job that could get him out of the game. Will it also cost him his family, his new love with Serita, and most of all, his life?
- GenresSuspense
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 19, 2014
311 people are currently reading
128 people want to read
About the author
Monica Walters
135 books957 followersStarting with poetry, writing has always been a constant in Monica's life. The interest began in her teenage years, being in love for the first time. Her love for writing has only progressed. Song lyrics and poetry led to short stories, then one day in her down time, a short story became a 56k word novel. It has been non-stop since then. Being a wife and mother, has only added to the joys of Monica's life. Attaining a BS in Sociology, helping her better understand people and their behaviors, has only helped her become a better writer, understanding characters and their complex personalities. Romance of all types has been her passion, and she plans to continue honing her skills in that genre.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
April 30, 2023
BAAYYBEEEHH, I haven’t read a Monica Walters book yet that disappointed me! Serita definitely went through a lot in her life. Her life story on top of Shawn’s life story was a phenomenal build to their characters! Once they became a couple, although it was quick, their love was beyond beautiful!
The fact that it’s not only a beautiful love story, but a suspense, had me so on edge! Now you K N O W you didn’t have to do us like that! I didn’t know what the end result would be in Shawn’s situation, but the outcome was very pleasant! Serita got the best surprise in the end as well! I grew to love every character in this book! Monica, girl THANK YOU for not making this a short story ❤️!!!!
The fact that it’s not only a beautiful love story, but a suspense, had me so on edge! Now you K N O W you didn’t have to do us like that! I didn’t know what the end result would be in Shawn’s situation, but the outcome was very pleasant! Serita got the best surprise in the end as well! I grew to love every character in this book! Monica, girl THANK YOU for not making this a short story ❤️!!!!
January 5, 2022
❤️❤️
Serita was dealt a rough hand and I’m very curious to see how things play out and just how messy this story becomes. Shawn seems too perfect for me and I’m waiting patience to see what comes of these couples
Serita was dealt a rough hand and I’m very curious to see how things play out and just how messy this story becomes. Shawn seems too perfect for me and I’m waiting patience to see what comes of these couples
February 27, 2025
Omg I have been seen alot of ppl talking about this series and knew it was time to dive in. And I did and now I can’t read anything else until I finish.
May 1, 2021
I have never read a Monica Walters book that I haven't instantly loved so it pains me to say that I struggled with this one. I see this one was written at least 10 years ago and I started with her most recent work so there has definitely been an amazing evolution.
This was TOO insta lovey, like I just couldn't get over them being soul mates in 2 days. I tried. HARD. There were just too many elements that I had to keep glossing over to try to make it believable. I unfortunately will not continue with this series but will absolutely continue reading Monica.
This was TOO insta lovey, like I just couldn't get over them being soul mates in 2 days. I tried. HARD. There were just too many elements that I had to keep glossing over to try to make it believable. I unfortunately will not continue with this series but will absolutely continue reading Monica.
August 4, 2024
Bittersweet Indeed
I am a new reader to Monica Walters practically. I've read The Berottes 1st then ALL the Henderson's Hood Country. So now I'm on the Sweet Series.
Reading the Hendersons is where I was introduced to Serita, Sonya. Kai AKA Nathaniel. I just had to find their stories!!! Serita Taylor aka Gardner's story made me want to read ALL about her.
Sooo....I will tell you, if you are new to Monica, it's probably best that you read her series/books in the order of release. I am finding that her characters are re-introduced in later works. Monica is an exceptionally talented author. Her books pulls at all my emotions!! I don't always like that. 🥴🥴 But her books are always great reads. They're like comedy/suspense/tear jerkers all in one.
Okkaayy, so on to the review of Bittersweet. Serita grew up with a difficult upbringing. Trauma after trauma that would put a lot of people on their donkeys or in a corner scratching an itch that isn't there. But one day she comes across this fine brother with Blue eyes he sets her heart to peter-pattering, and all of a sudden, they are off to the races!! Their love affair is a sprint! Though Shawn brings his own special drama, his resumé read specifically for the requirements Serita is in need of. He was indeed the man for the job. Reading later works of Monica's, where Serita tells of her shortcomings and experiences, is what makes this book truly BITTERSWEET. Shawn is truly perfect for Serita.
I am a new reader to Monica Walters practically. I've read The Berottes 1st then ALL the Henderson's Hood Country. So now I'm on the Sweet Series.
Reading the Hendersons is where I was introduced to Serita, Sonya. Kai AKA Nathaniel. I just had to find their stories!!! Serita Taylor aka Gardner's story made me want to read ALL about her.
Sooo....I will tell you, if you are new to Monica, it's probably best that you read her series/books in the order of release. I am finding that her characters are re-introduced in later works. Monica is an exceptionally talented author. Her books pulls at all my emotions!! I don't always like that. 🥴🥴 But her books are always great reads. They're like comedy/suspense/tear jerkers all in one.
Okkaayy, so on to the review of Bittersweet. Serita grew up with a difficult upbringing. Trauma after trauma that would put a lot of people on their donkeys or in a corner scratching an itch that isn't there. But one day she comes across this fine brother with Blue eyes he sets her heart to peter-pattering, and all of a sudden, they are off to the races!! Their love affair is a sprint! Though Shawn brings his own special drama, his resumé read specifically for the requirements Serita is in need of. He was indeed the man for the job. Reading later works of Monica's, where Serita tells of her shortcomings and experiences, is what makes this book truly BITTERSWEET. Shawn is truly perfect for Serita.
February 28, 2022
The Rollercoaster ride I'd gladly go on again
Bitter Sweet was definitely a Rollercoaster ride. Nonetheless, I enjoyed reading it. When I first started the book, I thought I knew where the story would go, but I'm glad that I was wrong. It was very unpredictable and entertaining. Serita and Shawn's relationship was filled with obstacles and drama, but their love was enough for them to overcome it all. With everything Serita went through in her life, she deserved the happy ending she got with Shawn and their families. Shawn was definitely a godsend for her , and I'm glad they were able to build a life together. I love that their family became involved in their lives because I believe they needed all of the support they could get. Although they are fictional characters, I'll still be hoping for the success of their relationship and their lives together. I really enjoyed reading this book, and I became emotionally invested in the story. I recommend this book to anyone that loves black romance stories with regular black people living regular black lives. You will enjoy this story as much as I did.
Bitter Sweet was definitely a Rollercoaster ride. Nonetheless, I enjoyed reading it. When I first started the book, I thought I knew where the story would go, but I'm glad that I was wrong. It was very unpredictable and entertaining. Serita and Shawn's relationship was filled with obstacles and drama, but their love was enough for them to overcome it all. With everything Serita went through in her life, she deserved the happy ending she got with Shawn and their families. Shawn was definitely a godsend for her , and I'm glad they were able to build a life together. I love that their family became involved in their lives because I believe they needed all of the support they could get. Although they are fictional characters, I'll still be hoping for the success of their relationship and their lives together. I really enjoyed reading this book, and I became emotionally invested in the story. I recommend this book to anyone that loves black romance stories with regular black people living regular black lives. You will enjoy this story as much as I did.
March 6, 2025
Bitter Sweet
This is my second time reading Bitter Sweet. I read it again in preparation for reading the remaining books in the Sweet Series. I read it the first time because I found this wonderful author, Monica Walters, and wanted to read more of her books!
The main female character was an inspiration in her strength. I appreciated that Serita overcame, over and over again. And I loved that Shawn wasn't ashamed to show his emotions. He had to get over his short fuse to allow himself to learn Serita. He jumped right in, providing her a home, but took some false starts, to fully support her emotionally. There were some unanswered questions with regards to her bio mom's sometimes peculiar ways, that I hope are revealed in later books in the series, as well as "is Sonya related to Serita? Looking forward to the next Sweet Series book !!
This is my second time reading Bitter Sweet. I read it again in preparation for reading the remaining books in the Sweet Series. I read it the first time because I found this wonderful author, Monica Walters, and wanted to read more of her books!
The main female character was an inspiration in her strength. I appreciated that Serita overcame, over and over again. And I loved that Shawn wasn't ashamed to show his emotions. He had to get over his short fuse to allow himself to learn Serita. He jumped right in, providing her a home, but took some false starts, to fully support her emotionally. There were some unanswered questions with regards to her bio mom's sometimes peculiar ways, that I hope are revealed in later books in the series, as well as "is Sonya related to Serita? Looking forward to the next Sweet Series book !!
August 6, 2021
Serita Jameson had a rough life. Serita was found as an infant at the age of three months. Serita became a ward of the state and aged out of the system. Serita endured so much from her foster parents. Serita works at a 9-1-1 dispatcher and attends college with a double major. Serita meets Shawn Taylor, and she believes that he is the man of her dreams. Shawn owns a photography studio, helps take care of his little brother and grandmother. Shawn is in love with Serita, knowing that she has some issues. Shawn is also working for his friend, who is a drug dealer. Shawn is offered to do a job that will provide him enough money to get out the game. Shawn was able to reunite Serita with her biological family for her birthday. Awesome read.
January 28, 2020
Bittersweet alright
I liked Shawn and Serita as a couple, did I think the relationship moved extremely quickly, yes! What started as their first date ended up with the two of them committing to be in a relationship with each other. Immediately following this Serita starts to get harassed by a stalker out of the blue. Because of her troubled past, Shawn is a bit overwhelmed and drama ensues.
This book had a lot going on from a psychopath stalker to a deadly fire, to a serious car crash to an assassin plot 😳 I wish the book would have been more focused on Serita and Shawn falling in love and doing things couples do, like date and get to know each other.
I liked Shawn and Serita as a couple, did I think the relationship moved extremely quickly, yes! What started as their first date ended up with the two of them committing to be in a relationship with each other. Immediately following this Serita starts to get harassed by a stalker out of the blue. Because of her troubled past, Shawn is a bit overwhelmed and drama ensues.
This book had a lot going on from a psychopath stalker to a deadly fire, to a serious car crash to an assassin plot 😳 I wish the book would have been more focused on Serita and Shawn falling in love and doing things couples do, like date and get to know each other.
January 4, 2020
Shawn and Sherita
Sherita head been thru it all - coming from the foster system but doing her thing by just being about to graduate college. Whew, the drama she thought she had left behind suddenly catches up with her again, with the help of an unlikely source. Definitely an interesting read with some eyebrow raising moments. Still have an eyebrow raised wondering about the elusive Sonya that Shawn was once involved with; and also wondering what info Sherita's biological family is keeping from her? Will continue the series to see if those questions get answered.
Sherita head been thru it all - coming from the foster system but doing her thing by just being about to graduate college. Whew, the drama she thought she had left behind suddenly catches up with her again, with the help of an unlikely source. Definitely an interesting read with some eyebrow raising moments. Still have an eyebrow raised wondering about the elusive Sonya that Shawn was once involved with; and also wondering what info Sherita's biological family is keeping from her? Will continue the series to see if those questions get answered.
January 5, 2020
LOVED IT
A really nice read that I enjoyed. An attention grabbing romance story that will surely have you wanting more. Serita and Shawn were truly meanr for each other. Their attraction for one another was undeniable. I loved that they were both goal oriented and were determibed to see the vision for their future come through. Curious to know what the deal is with Serita's mother and her sister. And is there a connection between Shawn's ex Sonya and Serita's family. Overall a great read with a happy ending of family coming together.
A really nice read that I enjoyed. An attention grabbing romance story that will surely have you wanting more. Serita and Shawn were truly meanr for each other. Their attraction for one another was undeniable. I loved that they were both goal oriented and were determibed to see the vision for their future come through. Curious to know what the deal is with Serita's mother and her sister. And is there a connection between Shawn's ex Sonya and Serita's family. Overall a great read with a happy ending of family coming together.
May 26, 2020
You did it again...
I do not like u! LOL I'm loving your style and I am hooked again. I cannot wait to read the next seven books in this series. The characters are so likeable and the romance, suspense, twists and turns had me excited. I can visualize a movie in the making 😀. Just like "Written between the pages", I'm waiting for the screen play. 🙋🖐 I volunteer to read the screen plays.
I do not like u! LOL I'm loving your style and I am hooked again. I cannot wait to read the next seven books in this series. The characters are so likeable and the romance, suspense, twists and turns had me excited. I can visualize a movie in the making 😀. Just like "Written between the pages", I'm waiting for the screen play. 🙋🖐 I volunteer to read the screen plays.
September 18, 2021
Life can make you or break you
Series life had been far from easy from the moment she was found at a Crack house to thr torturous life with he foster dad she had to fake it to make it. When Shawn came her guard was up and he trust level outside of the caseworker that finally gave her some level of a home was low. We fall him love with Shawn as he become her healer, protector and so much more. We learn about family, faith and this book truly deserves a 5
Series life had been far from easy from the moment she was found at a Crack house to thr torturous life with he foster dad she had to fake it to make it. When Shawn came her guard was up and he trust level outside of the caseworker that finally gave her some level of a home was low. We fall him love with Shawn as he become her healer, protector and so much more. We learn about family, faith and this book truly deserves a 5
January 12, 2022
This was my first read from this author. There was a lot going on and I'm not too sure about this Sonya that Shawn kept comparing Serita with. In my opinion I think he's still wishing that Sonya somehow appears because he seems to still have love or be in love with her since she left. Serita also have some issues that she seems to be dealing with that I'm not too sure about. Maybe the next book will provide some answers to unanswered questions.
October 15, 2022
Good book
This was a very good read and im so glad i went back to the beginning leading up to Sonya. Shawn is a sweetheart and i love him. I love the way you portrayed him to be ALL man but sensitive at the same time. Its been a long time since ive read about characters being humanized. He wasnt afraid to feel. If he was hurt, he wasn’t ashamed to show it. How he loved on Serita was everything and i was here for it! Now on to the next book in this series!!!
This was a very good read and im so glad i went back to the beginning leading up to Sonya. Shawn is a sweetheart and i love him. I love the way you portrayed him to be ALL man but sensitive at the same time. Its been a long time since ive read about characters being humanized. He wasnt afraid to feel. If he was hurt, he wasn’t ashamed to show it. How he loved on Serita was everything and i was here for it! Now on to the next book in this series!!!
October 24, 2023
What a story!!!
Now I have to say I learned about Monica Walters from the Berotte series. Once I read that one I had to start here at the very beginning!
Serita & Shawn’s story did not disappoint! This book is so interesting and I could not tell it was her first book! Serita’s story touched me - talking about you never know what someone is going through omg!!! Shawn was perfect for her too! I can’t wait to see what is next! And yes, I bought the whole series!!!
Now I have to say I learned about Monica Walters from the Berotte series. Once I read that one I had to start here at the very beginning!
Serita & Shawn’s story did not disappoint! This book is so interesting and I could not tell it was her first book! Serita’s story touched me - talking about you never know what someone is going through omg!!! Shawn was perfect for her too! I can’t wait to see what is next! And yes, I bought the whole series!!!
May 15, 2024
Great Read
I was not prepared for the drama and action that came with this book!!!…I got a tad bit aggravated with Serita in the beginning with all her emotions, but I continued and glad I did!!!…
I wanna know the person identity that was holding Shawn!!!…I love Devin and Grandma!!!…
I’m ready to see how Serita’s family develops as this series goes on since her death parents went on to have and raise other children!!!…
I was not prepared for the drama and action that came with this book!!!…I got a tad bit aggravated with Serita in the beginning with all her emotions, but I continued and glad I did!!!…
I wanna know the person identity that was holding Shawn!!!…I love Devin and Grandma!!!…
I’m ready to see how Serita’s family develops as this series goes on since her death parents went on to have and raise other children!!!…
January 10, 2020
Bitter Sweet !!
Serita went through so much so early . She pulled at my heart strings so much to see how unloved she felt. What was so sad was the foster homes that she had to go to until she went to her last one. I still want to know who killed them . I like shawn but I want him to fo better .
Serita went through so much so early . She pulled at my heart strings so much to see how unloved she felt. What was so sad was the foster homes that she had to go to until she went to her last one. I still want to know who killed them . I like shawn but I want him to fo better .
January 13, 2020
Great Read
Shawn and Serita fell in love instantly although she had gone through a lot in life and was constantly going through a lot. Shawn wanted to be there for her at all times. Shawn gave Serita something he knew she would love to have, her family. They managed to some other problems, but worked through them. Amazing read.
Shawn and Serita fell in love instantly although she had gone through a lot in life and was constantly going through a lot. Shawn wanted to be there for her at all times. Shawn gave Serita something he knew she would love to have, her family. They managed to some other problems, but worked through them. Amazing read.
March 2, 2020
Great storyline
I read a lot while on shift at the steel mill here in Rose City. What makes this so special to is . I’m from Port Arthur and can relate to the location names and places. It makes me feel like I’m a part of the story. I am happy to know we have a great writer right her in a BMT !!
I read a lot while on shift at the steel mill here in Rose City. What makes this so special to is . I’m from Port Arthur and can relate to the location names and places. It makes me feel like I’m a part of the story. I am happy to know we have a great writer right her in a BMT !!
August 12, 2021
Shawn and Serita are so cute together. Baby girl endure alot of hardships. And here came Shawn ready and willing to save her. I did not expect that from Chris. Goes to show you just can't trust people. And I'm looking at her mom sideways. I'm not to sure about her or Shannon. I could be wrong. On to the next!
February 5, 2024
Family Reunion
Oh wow 😮💨😮🤯‼️”Bitter Sweet (The Sweet Series - Book 1) was an excellent read! Even within a fictional novel, fictitious characters Shawn & Serita’s birthday celebration and their family reunion this is a 🤬 small world 🌎‼️…entirely too many risk, not enough questions and numerous ambiguous (“jobs”) circumstances! Storm ⛈️ clouds ahead🫣🤔
Oh wow 😮💨😮🤯‼️”Bitter Sweet (The Sweet Series - Book 1) was an excellent read! Even within a fictional novel, fictitious characters Shawn & Serita’s birthday celebration and their family reunion this is a 🤬 small world 🌎‼️…entirely too many risk, not enough questions and numerous ambiguous (“jobs”) circumstances! Storm ⛈️ clouds ahead🫣🤔
February 14, 2026
A lot but good
Having read other Ms. Walter’s books, I expect the book to be great. This book did not disappoint. Although this book isn’t real, what Serita went through is common in this crazy world. I’m glad she found a partner who was patient and willing to put in the work to be with her.
Having read other Ms. Walter’s books, I expect the book to be great. This book did not disappoint. Although this book isn’t real, what Serita went through is common in this crazy world. I’m glad she found a partner who was patient and willing to put in the work to be with her.
December 2, 2018
Amazing Story
I really love reading this book. This book was so unlike the typical stereotypical storylines you read. I am glad Shawn and Serita found can other. I am planning to read more of your books.
I really love reading this book. This book was so unlike the typical stereotypical storylines you read. I am glad Shawn and Serita found can other. I am planning to read more of your books.
November 4, 2019
Fantastic Book
I enjoyed reading this book so much! I couldn't put my kindle down! I enjoyed the storyline and the chemistry between Serita and Shawn. This book was so emotional. Monica Walters is becoming one of my favorite authors! Fantastic book
I enjoyed reading this book so much! I couldn't put my kindle down! I enjoyed the storyline and the chemistry between Serita and Shawn. This book was so emotional. Monica Walters is becoming one of my favorite authors! Fantastic book
November 26, 2019
Vett
Serita had been through a lot in her life. Shawn was just what she needed in her life. Who knew Chris was the nephew of the man that had raped her. I didn't see that coming hell I thought Chris was the stalker.
Serita had been through a lot in her life. Shawn was just what she needed in her life. Who knew Chris was the nephew of the man that had raped her. I didn't see that coming hell I thought Chris was the stalker.
November 27, 2019
*****
Serita went through so much growing up and as an adult. When she finally got a chance at true happiness they still tried to take that away from her as well. I am so glad things worked out for Serita & Shawn.
Serita went through so much growing up and as an adult. When she finally got a chance at true happiness they still tried to take that away from her as well. I am so glad things worked out for Serita & Shawn.
November 29, 2019
So good🔥
Captures your attention from page 1. Full of love, passion, mystery, & thrill. I truly couldn't put it down. In fact,I completed it in 24 hours🔥🔥🔥 Can't wait to read Book 2😍
Captures your attention from page 1. Full of love, passion, mystery, & thrill. I truly couldn't put it down. In fact,I completed it in 24 hours🔥🔥🔥 Can't wait to read Book 2😍
December 11, 2019
Not so Bitter, a while lot Sweet
For a first book, this was a nicely crafted story. A few times it seemed like the story started before this book. Shawn and Serita's relationship felt genuine, and the characters meshed well, also the other storyline with the stalker kept me turning pages. A good first book.
For a first book, this was a nicely crafted story. A few times it seemed like the story started before this book. Shawn and Serita's relationship felt genuine, and the characters meshed well, also the other storyline with the stalker kept me turning pages. A good first book.
December 21, 2019
Near heart attack
Well as usual these Texas men taking me there and I don’t want to spoil it for the next reader but this story is a blessing and eye opener. This strong is everything emotionally and will make you really see not all is what it appears. Great work Ms. Walters’
Well as usual these Texas men taking me there and I don’t want to spoil it for the next reader but this story is a blessing and eye opener. This strong is everything emotionally and will make you really see not all is what it appears. Great work Ms. Walters’
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews