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Stand on That

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Lavani Oakford has plans to enjoy her summer before locking in for fall. At twenty, she's doing okay for herself, but she knows there's more to life, and she has some important decisions to make. When the handsome Darius Artis eases his way into her life, she doesn't have dreams of fairytales and happily ever afters until he shows her that he's not like most. Darius dots every I and crosses every T, but there is no such thing as perfect. He warned her early on not to let the outside noise bother her, but Lavani soon learns that's easier said than done. A whirlwind romance turns into a serious relationship and that serious relationship causes a series of events to unfold that will forever change Vani.

Darius is mature for his age. He knows what he wants, and he's focused. He's a man of few words and would rather lead with actions. One of the most frustrating things he could ever encounter was choosing someone repeatedly. Loving them in a way he never loved anyone and having them act as if he's not being truthful. Love is complicated, and it can make people act out of character. One thing Vani and Darius learn the hard way is however you're acting, the way you're treating a person, when it's all said and done, you have to stand on it.

235 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 4, 2026

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Natisha Raynor

316 books978 followers

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5 stars
483 (64%)
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70 (9%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
30 reviews
September 17, 2026
Standing on it

We all make irrational decisions but it's up to us to learn from them. Darius fell in love (Vani) at first sight but he made some irrational decisions. The decisions he made was not knowing how to separate street life and living his life separate but he tried.
Profile Image for Tyler.
365 reviews1 follower
September 26, 2026
4.5⭐️

darius and lavani weren’t looking to settle down but when they came into each others life they realized that they were waiting for the right person to make them want that and that was each other. darius and lavani were truly the ones for each other. they brought each other peace, were a real team, matched each others freak and crazy, showed each other what real love is.

darius had pissed me off cause he had overly played like he could’ve been gave bree the money to pay off the car and he didn’t have to touch her face while talking to her. where lavani went wrong is she should’ve heard darius out and talked to him instead of being petty and leaving cause that caused her to make a dumb ass decision costing her to sit down for 3 years. but i love how darius took care of everything for her once she got out and he made it know he wanted his woman back, him telling her “i ain’t trying to hear none of that shit you talking about i’m giving you a week..make sure you don’t get nobody hurt” had me crying he wasn’t playing no games with her.

darius and play about lavani and lavani ain’t play about darius either. the proposal, the surprise wedding and him doing physical that to walk again was so cute.

whew bree pissed me off. i hate how her and darius brushed past her sexually assaulting and taking advantage of him when he was drunk one night because she’d known that not only did he not want her, want a child with her, he wouldn’t have touched her if he was sober, hell even after she told him she was pregnant he begged her to get an abortion but she wouldn’t hoping that he’d finally choose her. i get darius letting it go because he loves his daughter more than anything but the way it happened wasn’t right and i wish he told lavani how they ended up having a baby because i know she would’ve beat bree ass again. that drunk driving accident really put things in perspective for bree and i was glad she was finally able to get over her desperation for darius, apologize to lavani and burry the hatchet with her because at the end of the day they were going to be in each others lives forever.
Profile Image for She Reads What She Wants.
533 reviews25 followers
September 6, 2026
I really enjoyed this story forreal! Now, did I spend a good portion of this book rolling my eyes at BOTH the MMC and FMC depending on who was getting on my nerves at the moment? Absolutely. 😂 But at the same time, I was invested in watching Lavani and Darius navigate that young street love and all the decisions, mistakes, jealousy, and growing up that came along with it. Lavani made the decisions she thought were right at the time, while Darius was really trying to step up to the plate and show her that he was all about HER. But baby, that lil jealous streak of Vani's got her in trouble a few different times. Then my girl got DEEP in her feelings and made one of the biggest mistakes she possibly could, and there was no easy way to undo what had already been done. After Vani had to put on those big-girl panties and sit down for three years, I really didn't know what things were going to look like for these two. She was still holding on to the hurt she felt Darius caused her, but that man was NOT letting up off her. He was doing everything he could to prove that his love for her never left and trying to get Vani to remember that before all the hurt and mistakes, there were some really good times between them too.

But chile, then LIFE came through and completely flipped the script. Vani had to show up in ways she wasn't prepared for, and Darius had to humble himself more than he ever had before. Suddenly, these two had bigger things to deal with than old arguments and hurt feelings. They really had to knuckle up and figure out whether that spark that had kept them in each other's hearts all those years was still strong enough to build something on. Stand on That gave me young love, mistakes, consequences, hurt, growth, and two people trying to figure out if everything they'd been through had destroyed what they had or if there was still something worth fighting for. I fussed at BOTH of them, so don't ask me to pick a side. 😂
Do Lavani and Darius finally get it together? Baby, you're gonna have to go ahead and read Stand on That and find out for yourself! 👀📚💜
Profile Image for BookishhTori.
742 reviews4 followers
October 17, 2026
I Came for the Romance, Stayed for the Growth!

Baby, this wasn’t just a love story… this was a whole lesson in love, growth, communication, and standing on the decisions you make! 😮‍💨❤️ And Darius? Whew, that man definitely showed what it looks like when somebody is intentional about loving you!

The storyline flowed naturally and never felt rushed. It honestly felt like I was watching a movie play out because the situations were so realistic and relatable to everyday life.

Now Vani, sis! 😩 Sometimes you gotta put that anger to the side and USE YOUR WORDS! Her letting her emotions take over instead of communicating really set off a domino effect of bad decisions.

I ain’t even gonna lie, I was lowkey holding my breath because Darius had a plan, but we all know life doesn’t always play out the way we expect. One thing about Darius, though, he was intentional about loving Vani. He didn’t just talk about his love, he SHOWED it through his actions, and I respected that!

They both had plenty of moments where they had to stand in their decisions and everything that came with them. But through all the ups, downs, and lessons, love continued to prevail.

Overall, this was a really good read with an even better ending! I loved that the story wasn’t just about falling in love, but also about growth, accountability, and learning how to love somebody the right way. ❤️📚
September 16, 2026
Lavani is going on a date with Darius, a man known for his street credibility and having plenty of pretty women around him. From the jump, Lavani had her doubts because of everything she’d heard about him in the streets. She’d already been burned in the love department and wasn’t trying to go through that again.

Whew! 😮‍💨 This book took me on a lil’ ride!
The FC had me frustrated for a good portion of the story. 😩 She let being young, insecure, naive, and jealous take over when it came to her relationship with Darius. There were definitely moments where I wanted to shake her and tell her to stand on what she had! 😂

Now, I have to applaud Darius because, while he definitely wasn’t perfect, he stayed faithful to Lavani throughout their relationship. 👏🏽
And the irony? The ONE thing Lavani was worried about ended up happening to her. 😩 Talk about a full-circle moment!

I was glad to see that they both eventually got it together and figured things out in the end. ❤️

Overall, this was a relationship filled with insecurities, jealousy, lessons, and growth. It definitely had me feeling some type of way while reading!
Profile Image for Arabia Raye.
280 reviews8 followers
September 19, 2026
okay

This story was just okay for me. At times it was a bit too repetitive and it took a while for me to get into it. Vani constantly mentioning how high she was or the women Darius usually dates and how she may not measure up, got old real quick. I was like “oh my gosh we get it already!”

At some point I was not rooting for this couple. Vani was valid in her feelings when it came to Darius and the women he dealt with. If Vani carried on the way he did with those women he would get upset. In fact he blocked her from even speaking to other men. That car payment situation could’ve been ended but he let it continue . Him stashing at a woman’s house when Vani knew nothing about it was also not what you do in a relationship. From vani’s pov , you telling her she has nothing to worry about then sharing something with that same person you told her not worry about while she was away was a violation. I was hoping when Vani came home she would heal and explore someone else for a little while. Darius got on my nerves. It was always his way or no way. That decision vani made to stay quiet was dumb and it cost her.

I couldn’t stand Bree. She was pathetic. Hailey and Azarius was an interesting addition to the story.

1 review
September 22, 2026
I loved this book!!

I don't usually leave reviews, but I had to for this book. It had just the right amount of everything, a little classy based, a little ghetto, a little hood. All elements of an urban novel without being over the top. Usually when I read these type of books midway through the book. I'm upset because someone is either too ghetto two hood are the excessive cussing turns me off, but I can honestly say I read this book cover the cover and I love it. It wasn't your usual spin on drug dealer, girlfriend story. The fact that she went to jail instead of him didn't really see that coming.
Profile Image for Monique McKinney .
444 reviews5 followers
September 6, 2026
Awww so special

I love the book. Darius and Voni went through so much. You never know how much insecure you may have until I show your ugly head. They both had their ups and downs but made it through it all. I was horrible how a woman didn't know how to walk away even if a man didn't want you. It took an accident for Bree to wake up.
Darius grew and learned that Voni was the love of his life. He made some mistakes but learned from them. I am glad it worked out.
I would recommend this book.
409 reviews2 followers
September 6, 2026
Darius Stood on Big Business

Darius and Lavani had a world wind love story! Things moved fast after Darius shot his shot and Vani caught it! I enjoyed this quick paced love story. Vani was a real one, she ain’t fold like most men would. She wasn’t afraid to throw them hands either lol. That saying distance makes the heart grow fonder is true. Years later and Darius still yearned for my girl. I was so mad that Bree was Diamond’s mother. She was so delulu until almost the end. Glad things worked out for everyone. I would love to read up on Lo and Hailey.
Profile Image for Verlana Munn.
2,195 reviews39 followers
September 8, 2026
Natisha, as always you gave us a good read. Vani made my head turn around though. She really let emotions that weren't even real to cost her more than she knew she would lose.
Can I say thank you for Darius . He was the man, he took his responsibilities seriously. To say he showed love in so many ways was soʻ good to see such a stand up guy . The supporting characters were a hot mess. But they were loyal and trustworthy.
It was good that Vani got a second chance and she learned what was important and what should've been left alone. Good read 🤗🤗🤗🤨🤨🤨
25 reviews
September 11, 2026
okay lani & Darius

I loved this book ssssooooooo much. Normally I run from a slow burn but honey Natasha Raynor eats down EVERY TIME!!!! Their love story was good, realistic and didn’t feel forced at all. Lani was very childish but wanted to convince herself she was grown. Even with her childish behavior she stood on her actions.

Darius had his flaws too. But I knew he was rocking tough with lani from the beginning.


I’m glad Dymand was a girl and lani accepted her. I feel like if she had been a boy this story would’ve had a totally different outcome.
Profile Image for Rein.
299 reviews4 followers
September 15, 2026
An Experience ..

It was refreshing reading this! This was a well written, drawn out love story. I went on a journey with this couple and while it wasn't perfect and at times I really wanted to yell at Vani; this was pure storytelling.

The main characters well fleshed out, for the most part mature and showed even more growth throughout. The supporting characters were there when needed but mainly it was just the two. The situations they found themselves in were realistic but melo, if that makes sense.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Profile Image for Shei Polk.
180 reviews
September 10, 2026
read it

Natisha “never misses’ Raynor has done it again.

I was skeptical about Darius at the beginning he had all the makings to choose to be a no good man.

I was pleasantly surprised that he remained loyal but still caused heartbreak. A man will change for the woman he wants couldn’t be more true reading this.

Vani made a split decision being greedy that cost her so much.

This was a great read
Profile Image for Lashanda.
25 reviews
October 4, 2026
So Much Potential

I loved the premise of the book and the story line was good. However, the writing fell flat for me. There were things that I wished were revealed instead of just told. Plus I would have liked for the introduction to Vani and Darius to have been prior to their first date.

There were a lot of little things that could have been changed but overall it was an alright read that didn’t take long to complete.
613 reviews
October 13, 2026
Stand on That

Once again, Natisha Raynor has written a wonderful love story! This novel was beautifully written and took me on an emotional journey. It made me smile, and it made me cry. I truly enjoyed every moment of it! I will definitely be reading more of her novels. If you’re looking for a great love story, pick up this book and give it a read. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
74 reviews
September 5, 2026
Five star read

This author never ceases to amaze me. Just when you thought you had this book figured out, something else happened. It kept me on the edge f my seat. A lot of lessons were learned from both of the main characters. Read this book in one sitting after a full work day! Can’t wait for the next read from this author
68 reviews
September 5, 2026
omg

Ending this book with the biggest smile on my face . My girl really can do no wrong with the pen ! All I can say is run and read because she put her big toe in this one lol. The growth at the end with not even just the main characters. Another 5 star book that I will be purchasing a physical copy !!
19 reviews
September 7, 2026
Lavani and Darius

This was a ride or die story for real. Lavani getting locked up for three years and Darius getting shot. I thought the story was going to end badly for them. I was glad it was a happily ever after. Thank you for this story because it reminded me life is too short and we need to make the most of our life on this earth.
231 reviews6 followers
September 18, 2026
A worthwhile, fast-paced read

First, the reality presented in this book may not align with your own—but that's part of its appeal. Darius and Vani were authentically themselves, never putting on a facade, even with each other. The unexpected turns throughout kept me genuinely engaged. I'd recommend diving in and enjoying the ride.
223 reviews3 followers
September 21, 2026
Vani is Heroine of this story

Vani stood on business. Stayed accountable and honest. She loved hard but never became anyone’s punching bag. She made the story pop. Darius was perfect for the main character. His mistakes made me question if he could be ever be forgiven. So glad he got put on his butt so he could reduce some of his arrogance. Great plot, storyline and romance.
2,203 reviews14 followers
September 25, 2026
Good read!

I actually enjoyed this book, but felt that there was a lot of repetition in it. Darius and Vani both got on my nerves at times, but Bree was delusional as heck. One thing for sure was that Vani definitely stood on business. She and Darius loved each other through the many obstacles that they endured.
Profile Image for Alana.
15 reviews
October 6, 2026
DNF. The synopsis describes Darius as a mature young man. Ain’t nothing mature about riding around making plays with the girl you trying to be serious with and damn sure you ain’t letting her drive you! I didn’t like that. & I could tell he would be possessive while not having his shit in check. Nothing mature about that!
Profile Image for Tarsha G.
1,342 reviews
September 9, 2026
WHEH

Stand on It had me feeling ALL the emotions! What starts as a seemingly beautiful love story quickly reminds you that love isn’t always simple, and sometimes the hardest lessons come from the people we choose, trust, and love the most.
Profile Image for Judith Sims.
979 reviews10 followers
September 11, 2026
Love, love, loved it!!!

Oh how I loved this one. I knew she couldn't just leave him alone!!! He missed her while she was in jail and Bree tricked him!!! That woman was insane, and so was Mya an Mario!!! Loved the ending!!!
1,360 reviews10 followers
September 11, 2026
Loved It

Stand on that. When someone is for you, that's just it. They are for you. Darius was serious about Lavani! They had their upd and downs, but their love for one another wouldn't allow them to cut off one another! I loved the ending, and I hope to see more of them!
Profile Image for Tooblessed.
326 reviews
September 19, 2026
Loved It!

I enjoyed reading and Darius' story. It is well written with great characters as well as character growth. Of course there is always drama and chaos. They had me yelling at my Kindle a few times. lol Thank you, Natisha Raynor, for another great read.
Profile Image for Bianca.
1,112 reviews6 followers
September 25, 2026
unexpected

You know what? The twists and turns in this book were very unexpected. The things that happened to Vani and Darius were so surprising. There were some tears shed and how mush drama could’ve been avoided if Vani wasn’t so insecure about her age
221 reviews
September 28, 2026
Surprised

This book was such a surprise from start to finish. I did not expect any of the things that occurred to happen. The gradual growth of both characters was well displayed throughout the book.
Profile Image for Shan J.
309 reviews
October 19, 2026
Great storyline, but the repetitive narrative every chapter slowed things down and made it longer than it needed to be. Glad Darius and Lavani made it work in the end, but man... that dope boy lifestyle always brings extra drama into the mix! 📚✨
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews