How Can I Be Down?

by Brenda Hampton

As he struggles to control his drug empire and keep his cutthroat girlfriend in check, Kiley Jacoby Abrams has the next several months cut out for him. If that’s not enough, he’s got more setbacks than one man can an arrogant and troublesome brother, a sneaky playa-hating friend, another friend who turns to him for everything, and a woman who only claims to have his back.

Kiley’s life is full of secrets from the past, and for as long as he can remember, he’s been running from a life of crime. Moving from Los Angeles to St. Louis doesn’t allow him the change his heart desires, and Kiley soon realizes that trouble is his middle name. His fight to turn his life around doesn’t last for long. When a new love interests comes knocking at his door, she offers Kiley a life of stability—or possibly a new journey that may lead him straight to the devil’s lonely hell.

221 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 12, 2003

About the author

Hampton is a native St. Louis, with a gift and passion for writing. She maintained journals for several years, but it wasn’t until she read Terry McMillan’s Disappearing Acts that she considered taking her writing adventures to another level.



In 2002, Hampton completed her memoir, along with two fiction novels: Two's Enough Three's a Crowd and How Can I Be Down? The following year, she completed thrilling sequels to both novels and additional bestselling novels followed thereafter.



Hampton is known for bringing the heat to readers, and her literary career is filled with many accomplishments. She is an Essence Magazine Bestselling Author, she was named a Favorite Female Fiction writer in Upscale Magazine by O.O.S.A., she is a 2009 African American Literary Award Nominee for her mystery novel, The Dirty Truth, and was awarded Best Female Writer by Infini Promoters. Her dedication to her career lead to a multi-book deal through Urban/Kensington Books in New York City, a publishing house that she refers to as her literary home.



In addition to writing, and having an entrepreneur spirit, Hampton manages her own insurance business where she works as an Insurance Broker for many customers throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area. She is also the founder of VOICES Books & Publishing, VOICES Books on Wheels and VOICES Magazine. VOICES is the place where every voice can be heard, and Hampton uses her publishing company to assist writers through the POD process. Her goal has been to work with motivated writers who deserve a chance in this very challenging book industry. She’s been referred to as the “go to person” by many aspiring writers, and works as a literary representative for some of the most talented, upcoming and established authors today. Including, National Bestselling author, Keisha Ervin (Urban Books/Kensington), 2007’s Best Male Writer, Darrin Lowery (Urban Books/Kensington), OASIS (Strebor/Simon & Schuster), Silhouettes (Urban Books/Kensington), Curtis Alcutt (Strebor/Simon & Schuster) and E.V. Adams (Strebor/Simon & Schuster), Tia Hines (Urban/Kensington) and Kaya Henderson (Urban/Kensington).





Hampton's latest releases are: Don't Even Go There, Full Figured 1, The Dirty Truth and Book 6 of the Naughty Series. Naughty includes Hampton’s most loveable, desired, and outrageous character, Jaylin Rogers. Readers can’t get enough of this “bad boy” and his continued drama goes on in Naughty No More. Other novels include: Two Wrongs Don’t Make a Right, SLICK, How Can I Be Down?, No Justice No Peace, a Girls from Da Hood collaboration with Brenda Hampton, Keisha Ervin and Ed McNair, and Who or What is in that Closet?!, a children's chapter book that Hampton wrote with her son, Aaron Littlejohn.

Reviews

[K2 · Rating 3 out of 5]

A little boring and kinda flat

[Kellee · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book started off great!! And then, it went downhill really fast for me. I was initially impressed to read a book by Brenda Hampton that dealt with drugs and thugs. I've read the entire Naughty series and know she's a great writer. I could tell her writing has progressed a lot over the years after writing this book. It went downhill when I started asking myself questions about a lot of things as to why the main character did some of the things he did. Then the book just dragged on and on. It became way too long for me. I was annoyed. I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone, but I would def recommend the Naughty series.



*****BELOW ARE SPOILER ALERTS*****

1. If Kiley was supposed to be described as such a private person, I didn't understand how he was telling random chicks his personal business.

2. It was hard for me to believe that he would turn down sex with Candi so much with no real reason other than he didn't want to be bothered. He never mentioned anything about not liking her aggressiveness and actually found her extremely attractive so him turning it down all the time initially was unbelievable.

3. Why are 3/4 grown men who are supposed to have so much money living together?

4. I'm tired of hearing Jaylin's name mentioned in every book. It was only mentioned once but it in no way tied into the Naughty series so why was he even mentioned.

5. For someone who is supposed to be running a drug business but pretty much at the top, there was NEVER any mention of illegal dealings. If you are trying to describe him as a drug dealer, wouldn't this at least be mentioned a couple of times?

[Queen Rosalind · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brenda Hampton hadn't failed me yet! Loving this author to pieces! She knows how to bring everything together in one novel. Don't want to spoil the delicious pages of this book but I found myself absorbed within it like the ink on its pages.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was really a trip. The shenanigans of these guys really had my laughing quite a bit, and rooting for them to keep their life and lifestyle going. Kiley seemed like he had it all together, and had things under control, but women were ultimately his down fall. Kareem he was something else, I was sad to see him turn out the way he did. Behind Kiley, Quincy was the most level headed of the group. The way he went out was the wackness, but you couldn't help but be proud of him for taking one for the team. I have to say I saw the outcome with Candi coming a mile away. As smart as Kiley was he was so stupid to have walked right into that trap. This book really had it all, a good story line, hot sex scenes, and a great bond between the characters. I can't wait to read the sequel.

[Cherise Fisher · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was awful. I really enjoy the writings of Brenda Hampton but this one did not make the list. The story line just did not have substance and I thought the characters were corny.

[lene Ade · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was hilarious. Very entertaining novel.

[Tamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honor Thy Father, Love Thy Brothers.......

Whew! Amazing! "How Can I Be Down?" is one that needs to be in your library. Ms. Hampton has put her thang down with this one! Kiley Abrams is 'the man' that has no shame in his game. Be it in the bed, in the kitchen, on the wall, down the hall, he is definitely 'bout it' 'bout it.' He is the ultimate player in that you will love him for his courage, his love and concern for all around him, his business mind, and unequivocably HIS Unique Finesse! He has no problem wearing all types of hats from being 'thy brother's keeper', continuing 'thy father's legacy', stepping up to being 'thy super dad' and lastly 'thy luscious, lustful lover man!' Ain't no half stepping, no side stepping, nothing but doing that damn thang to the utmost! If you're smart, don't sleep, get your copy today!

[Belinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brenda Hampton is the best. I just finished How Can I be Down and it was the bomb. The characters were awesome. They had mad love for each other except Donovan, the snake. I fell bad for Quincy & Kiley. These brothers had "mad love" for each other. If only Kiley had followed his first mind abt Candi. She was a cop. The ending saddened me. Such a good book!!

[Linda Strickland · Rating 5 out of 5]

The ending was a shocker!

[Kierah Flowers · Rating 4 out of 5]

"How Can I Be Down" by Brenda Hampton, it is a very interesting book and I like it. The main characters are Kiley, Jada, Donovan, Kareem and Quincy. This book gives a good overview of real life situations and it is very descriptive so it makes it seem realistic. Kiley and Jada are having relationship problems and Donovan is one reason why. Kareem and Quincy live with all of them so basically they witness all this drama but they have their own issues with each other.

Out of everyone in the book "How Can I Be Down" I think Kiley is my favorite. I like him the most because he reminds me of myself a little, he is very observant of the people he surrounds himself with. Also he is a helper he has a big heart, he let all of them stay in his home out of the kindness of his heart. He makes mistakes he's human but through it all he still maintains his composure. I do feel like he observed everyone so much except his own girl Jada!

If I could change something it would be how Jada found out Kiley had a baby. Kiley's child is 3 years old and he's been with Jada for more than 3 years and never told her. I feel like he should of just told her from the beginning its not like they were together when it happened, they were on a break. Throughout the book Jada would wonder where Kiley was going on the weekends. Maybe that’s why she went and had sex with Donovan.

Overall I think this book is amazing, it tells a good lesson about it doesn’t matter how long you’ve known a person it doesn't mean they are down for you. In the ending Donovan ended up dying because Kiley killed him for sleeping with his girl. There is lots of drama in "How Can I Be Down" but, I would encourage others to read it, it's a big eye opener. I would recommend you pay attention really good because it can get confusing. A person who might be interested in books with lots of drama and twists might want to read this book.

[Iona Sawyer · Rating 3 out of 5]

So much held back

Kiley seemed more like an individual who is wet behind the ears. The story had its moments when I was on edge but overall it was Like a tv drama rated PG with so much held back. The last 3 chapters is what really put funk into the story.

[Iona Sawyer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kiley seemed more like an individual who is wet behind the ears. The story had its moments when I was on edge but overall it was Like a tv drama rated PG with so much held back. The last 3 chapters is what really put funk into the story.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg this book has me in tears. I just felt so bad for kiley. He was on the run slowly but surely they told you but kiley was private. But his brother Kareem and Quincy was basically on the run from LA. But this book was very interesting

[Coco Nelson · Rating 2 out of 5]

Listening to this and the narrator has an amazing voice. He's actually saving the book. Jada is nerve wracking and for a drug dealer main character this reads more like a Bromance book. Well paid grown men living together and have healthy sex lives, The main character lies so much and hides people he supposedly loves, he's supposed to be a good guy and you do like him but he also seems like a push over. He's hella confused so far.

[Ta · Rating 2 out of 5]

Blah blah blah

[Candace]

This story really drew me in!no just stumbled upon this book and I'm so glad I did,!

[Kira Bryant · Rating 4 out of 5]

SMH, Jay-Z and R. wrote a song about it

[Melissa · Rating 2 out of 5]

I've read other books by Brenda Hampton. I didn't dislike any of them.
I guess there's first time for everything. The premise is fine.
Kiley, his brother Kareem, brother (but not by blood) Quincy. Quincy is White. It's brought up quite a few times. So it's worth a mention. Then there's Donovan.
Jada is Kylie's live girlfriend. All these people live together.
Kylie talks about his fathers death. How Donovan first moved out to St. Louis and the the rest followed.
They supposedly have a drug operation. But not one page mentions anything about it. Other than money in a safe.
Jada breaks Kylie's wrist, gives him another injury that requires stitches. Along with telling the police about said operation. But he still considers getting back together with her?
For someone that is "private" with his brothers... He spills incriminating info to a woman he barely knows? A woman he got weird bad vibes from? OK.
He was using a pager?
This book lacked cohesion. It also didn't seem plausible sometimes. It was the same scenario over and over again.

[Wilki · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kiley has followed in his father's footsteps and become a leader in his on right within the drug game. As his past endeavours have paid off, he along with his brother, Kareem and his boys live a life of leisure ..and pleasure as they indulge in their female companions. But though all seems well, Kiley just can't seem to shake his past. Eventually getting comfortable causes what he was looking over his shoulder for..to come knocking on his door.


This was an enjoyable read. The characters were enganging as well as their interactions. The plot wasn't as fast-paced; I felt more of Kiley's past in LA and his involvement in the drug game could have been included. Most of the plot centered around one setting. I assume more will be revealed in part 2. Nonetheless I enjoyed it.

[Angelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

"How Can I Be Down?" is one that needs to be in your library. Kiley Abrams is 'the man' that has no shame in his game. Be it in the bed, in the kitchen, on the wall..... he is definitely the man...... He is the ultimate player, baller and shot caller and with that you will love him for his courage, his love and concern for all around him, his business mind, but his love for women will be his ultimate down fall.....Don't know why he couldn't see it but I guess the saying is true when it comes to which part some men think with even if they have money, fame and fortune.....I know this is an old one but it was just released on the Kindle and if you haven't read it please give it a try.....

[Nicole Hughes · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book was good but a little predictable. You had four grown men still acting like children in the drug game, getting high, no responsibility, and running women. The guys just did not appear intellectual at all. No one conducted any business but everyone had money. I knew the women they allowed in their lives would be their downfall. I also knew Candi was shady, I just could not figure out if she was working for Donovan or the police. All the women were of low standard and you could tell because none of them required or expected anything from the men they were dating. Overall decent book but very predictable.

[Cathy Warner · Rating 4 out of 5]

My first time reading a Brenda Hampton book (in 2 days) and I must say I enjoyed it. It was a very easy read. The story line was easy to follow and the characters were hilarious. Thugs with a sense of humor. Just because you live the hard life on the outside doesn’t mean that you don’t have the same feelings as the rest of us on the inside. Kiley Abrams, a street dude with a good heart. The sad thing is, when you share your feelings and allow people close to your heart, you get caught up....Great Book! I’m staring on the next one right now!

[Ms.Toni · Rating 4 out of 5]

How Can I Be Down?

How Can I Be Down? tells the story of a young man, Kiley Abrams, as he leaves his life of crime behind in L.A. to join one of his partners in St. Louis. With him he takes his brother, Kareem, and best friend, Quincy. They're looking for a new start, but will their past catch up them?

Great book! Been a fan of Ms. Hampton since reading "Two's Enough, Three's A Crowd." Looking forward to reading more of her work. Keep reppin the LOU.

[Ms.Toni · Rating 4 out of 5]

How Can I Be Down?

How Can I Be Down? tells the story of a young man, Kiley Abrams, as he leaves his life of crime behind in L.A. to join one of his partners in St. Louis. With him he takes his brother, Kareem, and best friend, Quincy. They're looking for a new start, but will their past catch up them?

Great book! Been a fan of Ms. Hampton since reading "Two's Enough, Three's A Crowd." Looking forward to reading more of her work. Keep reppin the LOU.

[Erica L · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting book. Although it was written about a man supposedly by a man, I could tell it was a woman writing it even though Brenda Hampton did a good job at it. and I LOVED the fact that she told a full and complete satisfying story, IN ONE NOVEL! Not all of that "to be continued" crap. Kiley though, talked too damn much to too may damn people. He was so whipped! UGH!

[Princess Brittney Aurelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me an emotional wreck!! Oh my...I was literally trying to hold back tears while reading this. I won't give anything away, but all I have to say is, READ THIS, if you haven't already. I am a huge fan of Brenda Hamptons books and series! ❤️

[Teaguem2005 · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book was pretty good but I kind of predicted one of the crucial character's occupation.

[LaShawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is also a good one!!

[Felisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book, I knew something was up with that Candie Chic. Well onto the sequal!!!!!

[Tracey Sims · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a ok read. I couldn't stop reading the last couple of chapters