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Say What You Mean: The Cambridge Crew
Desmond Cambridge sits as the co-head of The Jungle, and he is not the one to fumble your chances with. As a man that knows all about a hustle, he expects his to be respected. Being the one to always keep a smile on his face, no one knew what he was going through internally. Well, that is until Xayoni became the only one he could rely on.
Xayoni James knew the definition of sacrifice all too well. Entering society again from doing twelve long years, she realizes the world she left had changed drastically. The only thing she knew was to chase a dollar and that’s exactly what she did. However, the person she loved most never left her thoughts.
The game between cat and mouse somehow became a loving distraction they both needed.
Xayoni James knew the definition of sacrifice all too well. Entering society again from doing twelve long years, she realizes the world she left had changed drastically. The only thing she knew was to chase a dollar and that’s exactly what she did. However, the person she loved most never left her thoughts.
The game between cat and mouse somehow became a loving distraction they both needed.
225 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 15, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
May 25, 2024
🥹
Say What You Mean featured Des and Yoni and their journey to a happily ever after. Yoni was released from prison and came home to new opportunities. A new man was not in her cards, but Des wasted no time staking claim to her. I think the two were physically attracted to each other, but I also telt Yoni was the temale version of Des - both did not take any foolishness. I feel Yoni unintentionally saved Des life during their night of passion. It shook Des and had him scheduling the earliest appointment with his doctor. Without giving much away, I believe that the new development changed Des' outlook on things. He realized Yoni was who he wanted and became a “simp" behind her. Yoni was laser-focused after prison, but it was apparent that she had the same feelings as Des. I loved the theme of "family over everything" and protecting the ones you love. I had to check my feelings about the way Des handled his situation. I understood the "why" behind his actions, but his family would have dropped everything for him. Nonetheless, things unfolded the way they needed, and Des and Yoni reached their end goal.
~3.5 - 4 ⭐️
*arc review
Say What You Mean featured Des and Yoni and their journey to a happily ever after. Yoni was released from prison and came home to new opportunities. A new man was not in her cards, but Des wasted no time staking claim to her. I think the two were physically attracted to each other, but I also telt Yoni was the temale version of Des - both did not take any foolishness. I feel Yoni unintentionally saved Des life during their night of passion. It shook Des and had him scheduling the earliest appointment with his doctor. Without giving much away, I believe that the new development changed Des' outlook on things. He realized Yoni was who he wanted and became a “simp" behind her. Yoni was laser-focused after prison, but it was apparent that she had the same feelings as Des. I loved the theme of "family over everything" and protecting the ones you love. I had to check my feelings about the way Des handled his situation. I understood the "why" behind his actions, but his family would have dropped everything for him. Nonetheless, things unfolded the way they needed, and Des and Yoni reached their end goal.
~3.5 - 4 ⭐️
*arc review
May 24, 2024
I love this toxic Twin! Des is my boo.
We saw Des and Yoni meet each other in Loves Covenant and I couldn’t wait to see how their story was going play out.
Des is our toxic twin and Yoni just did a 12 year bid protecting her baby sister. As we know from Loves Covenant Yoni was Elle’s cell mate and BFF.
Just know when Des saw Yoni it was all she wrote she was gonna be his!
When destiny has a life altering situation I was in shock and even with this happening he was still that DUDE and still that man my girl needed. There was no backing down! Toxic but loving Des and Yoni is just as toxic might I add where meant for each other and I love them!
May 26, 2024
Another good one by C. E.
August 1, 2024
Disappointed in the ending
Sorta just ended, the build up was good but then it just ended. No major conflict or true drama but over all it was good.
Sorta just ended, the build up was good but then it just ended. No major conflict or true drama but over all it was good.
June 5, 2024
Not for me
DNF at 89%
MMC says “You want to dance so fuckin’ bad let’s see you get down all the way to the door.” while shooting at FMC’s feet.
I’m surprised no reviewers made mention of this. It was very reminiscent of what happened to Megan thee Stallion and I did not find it in the least bit amusing.
DNF at 89%
MMC says “You want to dance so fuckin’ bad let’s see you get down all the way to the door.” while shooting at FMC’s feet.
I’m surprised no reviewers made mention of this. It was very reminiscent of what happened to Megan thee Stallion and I did not find it in the least bit amusing.
October 9, 2024
I think I may be a little "toxic" because I definitely enjoyed Des and Yoni's story far more than Tas and Elle. While they clicked from the beginning it was never supposed to be anything serious at least for Yoni despite the chemistry they share. When Des experiences a health crisis Yoni is one of the few people he confidents in for support..They never truly define the relationship aside from Des staking his claim because she was the first woman he allowed in his space since his last relationship which was quite a few years ago, somewhere between his late teens and early 20s. Now I have to give it to him, Des forewarned Yoni...by saying he was quote on quote "toxic" and he didn't mind acting a fool over who or what belonged to him..seems this was also one of the many reasons he never got into serious relationships. Des really stood on business about Yoni and she eventually learns exactly what he means by the term "toxic", and its NOT for the weak...the way Des showed his behind at that club and wasn't supposed to be there...Yoni plays it cool but that don't last long.
Sn: Comfortability is the most overly used word..the author used it so much I could predict when and where it would be inserted throughout the story.
Sn: Comfortability is the most overly used word..the author used it so much I could predict when and where it would be inserted throughout the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2024
When two stubborn people fall for each other always entertaining to watch. Xayoni fresh out after 12years for seeking vengeance for her little sister. Des twin brother of Tas who’s smitten with his (Lil Baby. Ohh what a tangled web we weave. They’re both alike protective, stoic, compassionate and complex. That welcome back party started something Yoni couldn’t finish. Both are fighting a battle that they can’t fight alone, but assume they can. Chef’s kiss on angst I really went in thinking I’m getting a soft core novel. Which is comical to me because she’s never writes that. Now I’m going to get into the fact miscommunication is somewhat their flaw..No matter what though even if they’re a little toxic these two are kismet. Now my only setback is the ending, however Connie didn’t disappoint with this novel. Now next his cousin Reign hopefully.
May 27, 2024
DESSSS!
I thought Tas had my heart from the last book, but I was wrong! Des started not playing about Yoni! I’m glad she thought it was only a one-night stand, lol! I knew it was her sister when Reign said her friend was back in town, but I waited patiently! The moment was sentimental when he got the info about his health, but he still decided to look for the sister, and when that didn’t work, he figured out another way! He wasn’t playing behind Yoni! Her cousin got precisely what she deserved, but I hoped it was in front of her so she could see how he was stepping behind her. Yoni should’ve listened to Elle, but a hard behind always pays, and she did! Des showed her they were locked in, whether it was voluntary or involuntary. LOL! I’m saying too much! Great job Connie!
I thought Tas had my heart from the last book, but I was wrong! Des started not playing about Yoni! I’m glad she thought it was only a one-night stand, lol! I knew it was her sister when Reign said her friend was back in town, but I waited patiently! The moment was sentimental when he got the info about his health, but he still decided to look for the sister, and when that didn’t work, he figured out another way! He wasn’t playing behind Yoni! Her cousin got precisely what she deserved, but I hoped it was in front of her so she could see how he was stepping behind her. Yoni should’ve listened to Elle, but a hard behind always pays, and she did! Des showed her they were locked in, whether it was voluntary or involuntary. LOL! I’m saying too much! Great job Connie!
June 2, 2024
Des Wasn't coming Off Yoni!!
As soon as Yoni answered the sexual attraction was there. Des told Yoni he's toxic. Yoni was looking for her sister since she came home, the thing is she was right there under their nose. Yoni has never had a man to look out for her then Des has. I hate that Des didn't let his family know what he was going through. Nivea really did a job on Des that's why he's wasn't to trusting of women, he used them just as much as they used him. Nivea knew what her father was doing to Xylah. After Yoni told him her story, he knew she wouldn't never fold. They matched each others energy. They are doggy parents. I assume that they will be parents to little humans one day in the future. Isn't that the reason why he saved his sprem?
As soon as Yoni answered the sexual attraction was there. Des told Yoni he's toxic. Yoni was looking for her sister since she came home, the thing is she was right there under their nose. Yoni has never had a man to look out for her then Des has. I hate that Des didn't let his family know what he was going through. Nivea really did a job on Des that's why he's wasn't to trusting of women, he used them just as much as they used him. Nivea knew what her father was doing to Xylah. After Yoni told him her story, he knew she wouldn't never fold. They matched each others energy. They are doggy parents. I assume that they will be parents to little humans one day in the future. Isn't that the reason why he saved his sprem?
March 7, 2025
Des & Yoni, Love Life And Health Scare
I truly enjoyed this book!!!…Elle was an amazing friend and I love how she wanted to make sure her friend was well after she was released!!!…
I was soooo happy that Yoni found her sister & her sister is in a great mental place and she encouraged Yoni to do the same!!!…
Des was a man on a mission and wanted to make sure his family all while trying to get himself to a healthier place mentally and physically!!!…
I love the health scare scene because many struggle with it and suffer in silence or does not want family to give them the look of feeling bad!!!…
I truly enjoyed this book!!!…Elle was an amazing friend and I love how she wanted to make sure her friend was well after she was released!!!…
I was soooo happy that Yoni found her sister & her sister is in a great mental place and she encouraged Yoni to do the same!!!…
Des was a man on a mission and wanted to make sure his family all while trying to get himself to a healthier place mentally and physically!!!…
I love the health scare scene because many struggle with it and suffer in silence or does not want family to give them the look of feeling bad!!!…
July 2, 2026
Yoni has just been released from jail with on goal which is to find her sister. Des is the co-head of the Jungle. He ran things with his brother Tas. He was never looking for love only a good throat or box. Yoni was showed so much love from her best friend/ ex-cell mate Elle. When she touched down, she had money, a condo and a car. What started off as a welcome home kickback turned into a night with Des, she would never forget. surprisingly Des fell first. Yet after their first sexual encounter Des was hit with a major health scare. That did not slow him down on chasing after Yoni and making sure he gave her everything she wanted and needed
September 27, 2026
Des and Yoni
Desmond is the other head of the organization. He is not looking for love but is intrigued by Xayoni when he meets her.
Xayoni is the friend of his sister in law Elle. They became friends when they were locked up together. She is now out and is trying to locate her sister.
On her first night out, she and Des did grown folk stuff. After this session, Des realized something could be wrong with him.
Des learns of his health issues and decides to face it alone. Yoni learns of the issue and steps up with helping him.
There is hiccup when an ex from his past tries to come back into his life.
Desmond is the other head of the organization. He is not looking for love but is intrigued by Xayoni when he meets her.
Xayoni is the friend of his sister in law Elle. They became friends when they were locked up together. She is now out and is trying to locate her sister.
On her first night out, she and Des did grown folk stuff. After this session, Des realized something could be wrong with him.
Des learns of his health issues and decides to face it alone. Yoni learns of the issue and steps up with helping him.
There is hiccup when an ex from his past tries to come back into his life.
November 24, 2024
Des is what I would call the ultimate version of unhinged because why did he cut up in that lounge like that?
Yoni and Des were living lives where they had no room for a relationship, but as usual the OG (up above) always has a different plan. Des has a scare that has him rethinking everything while Yoni is puzzled about her feelings for a man she had no intentions of being with.
I was waiting for Des' story and I can definitely say, Connie did not disappoint. I was rolling my eyes at Yoni after the hospital though because SHE should've known better.
Yoni and Des were living lives where they had no room for a relationship, but as usual the OG (up above) always has a different plan. Des has a scare that has him rethinking everything while Yoni is puzzled about her feelings for a man she had no intentions of being with.
I was waiting for Des' story and I can definitely say, Connie did not disappoint. I was rolling my eyes at Yoni after the hospital though because SHE should've known better.
May 27, 2024
Loved
Bro, I loved this so bad it dont make no sense! Des is funny ah and Xay just complimented the mess out of him. They had me rolling this whole book especially Yoni's tail lol Im sad to see them go but im really happy that we got to read about them. And I freaking knew her sister was gonna be right under their noses I called it last book! Lol 5 stars ofcourse Mrs. Connie. WHO'S NEXT!?
Bro, I loved this so bad it dont make no sense! Des is funny ah and Xay just complimented the mess out of him. They had me rolling this whole book especially Yoni's tail lol Im sad to see them go but im really happy that we got to read about them. And I freaking knew her sister was gonna be right under their noses I called it last book! Lol 5 stars ofcourse Mrs. Connie. WHO'S NEXT!?
July 30, 2024
⭐️
Absolutely not.
I wasn’t feeling either of the MCs. But the MMC was absolute 🗑️. At one moment he shoots at the FMC and in a few sentences later. She’s gloating about him choosing her.
Girl what?! Not for me. That is domestic violence, not romance.
The details just didn’t add up. I didn’t believe Des was as dangerous as he was described.
Not a fan. I think this is the 3rd book by this author and I haven’t enjoyed any. I’m going to tap out on her work.
Absolutely not.
I wasn’t feeling either of the MCs. But the MMC was absolute 🗑️. At one moment he shoots at the FMC and in a few sentences later. She’s gloating about him choosing her.
Girl what?! Not for me. That is domestic violence, not romance.
The details just didn’t add up. I didn’t believe Des was as dangerous as he was described.
Not a fan. I think this is the 3rd book by this author and I haven’t enjoyed any. I’m going to tap out on her work.
March 16, 2025
Des and Yoni
I liked these two!! Yoni had her sticking ans moving phase baby but as soon as Des was not answering she went a mock. That's how they always get you. But loved them because of their genuine nature towards each other. Their was no fake, no stringing along but most of all their was loyalty. And the way they did that cousin just made it all better " You talking to much, drop that hoe." Lol my favorite line.
I liked these two!! Yoni had her sticking ans moving phase baby but as soon as Des was not answering she went a mock. That's how they always get you. But loved them because of their genuine nature towards each other. Their was no fake, no stringing along but most of all their was loyalty. And the way they did that cousin just made it all better " You talking to much, drop that hoe." Lol my favorite line.
June 12, 2024
Say what you mean!
This was another good read from Connie Easton. She just gets better and better. Yoni and Des were made for each other. Even though she tried to deny him, she couldn't help but fall in love. That man played no games about her and we saw that in me than one occasion.
This was another good read from Connie Easton. She just gets better and better. Yoni and Des were made for each other. Even though she tried to deny him, she couldn't help but fall in love. That man played no games about her and we saw that in me than one occasion.
September 11, 2024
That was unexpected
I was not ready for the issue in this book but the main characters and the family really handled it like champs. Yoni in my opinion wasn’t a first pick choice to Des for me, he really needed someone who was for him she just seemed selfish and childish. I did enjoy all of it tho.
I was not ready for the issue in this book but the main characters and the family really handled it like champs. Yoni in my opinion wasn’t a first pick choice to Des for me, he really needed someone who was for him she just seemed selfish and childish. I did enjoy all of it tho.
May 25, 2024
Wheww
Listen, Des almost upset me so bad. That’s my g though lol. This was such a good read!! I love how it was instant for him and he was not letting up!! I just knew you were going to make something shake at the end though 🥺.
Listen, Des almost upset me so bad. That’s my g though lol. This was such a good read!! I love how it was instant for him and he was not letting up!! I just knew you were going to make something shake at the end though 🥺.
May 26, 2024
Transformation
Family is important no matter the situation or circumstances we will cherish moments or memories. As we go forward in life we can stay stagnant or move forward with change growing with each adaption.
Family is important no matter the situation or circumstances we will cherish moments or memories. As we go forward in life we can stay stagnant or move forward with change growing with each adaption.
May 26, 2024
Another Good One
I enjoyed Des & Yoni love story. Des claimed her from day one of her release. I love how she stood by him when he needed love and support thru his treatment. Definitely recommend this book.
I enjoyed Des & Yoni love story. Des claimed her from day one of her release. I love how she stood by him when he needed love and support thru his treatment. Definitely recommend this book.
May 27, 2024
Interesting
Desmond & Xayoni!!! This story kept me on edge for a couple of reasons. This was a good read. Two people who don't "do love " fall in love! Life through challenges and in spite of, these two found love.
Desmond & Xayoni!!! This story kept me on edge for a couple of reasons. This was a good read. Two people who don't "do love " fall in love! Life through challenges and in spite of, these two found love.
May 27, 2024
I usually like her work but
I don't like Yoni at all. She just ain't it for me. I couldn't connect with her at all. I loved Des though. He definitely stood on business. Love the family dynamic. Didn't feel the chemistry at all though.
I don't like Yoni at all. She just ain't it for me. I couldn't connect with her at all. I loved Des though. He definitely stood on business. Love the family dynamic. Didn't feel the chemistry at all though.
May 28, 2024
Elated
I was sad at first when he was diagnosed with colon cancer because my mom was taken from us with it but I’m happy is was caught in time but why not use the sperm that he had frozen to try for a baby.
I was sad at first when he was diagnosed with colon cancer because my mom was taken from us with it but I’m happy is was caught in time but why not use the sperm that he had frozen to try for a baby.
May 28, 2024
meh
Not my favorite of the series or from the Cambridge stories but it was still good. I feel like we could’ve been giving more. Like what happened with the trip? Did yoni stay on parole? What happened to Des’s frozen kids? But still overall it was good.
Not my favorite of the series or from the Cambridge stories but it was still good. I feel like we could’ve been giving more. Like what happened with the trip? Did yoni stay on parole? What happened to Des’s frozen kids? But still overall it was good.
May 29, 2024
Perfect toxicity
Yoni was looking for a lil D but got a whole man out here. Des gave just enough toxic energy not to be a turn off. Their relationship woes were practical. And their journey of love was a great read.
Yoni was looking for a lil D but got a whole man out here. Des gave just enough toxic energy not to be a turn off. Their relationship woes were practical. And their journey of love was a great read.
May 29, 2024
Can we say dramatic comedy?!!!
This book kept me wondering…
One moment it was causing tears, the next I was ready to fight over people who aren’t even real, and the next I was cracking up.
Good read.
This book kept me wondering…
One moment it was causing tears, the next I was ready to fight over people who aren’t even real, and the next I was cracking up.
Good read.
May 31, 2024
Mean what you say
Des has such a aura around him. You don't know if he mean or nice but you just know he doesn't play about the ones he cares about. Why Des never mentioned to Yoni that he had some sperm saved? I was hoping they were able to conceive?
Des has such a aura around him. You don't know if he mean or nice but you just know he doesn't play about the ones he cares about. Why Des never mentioned to Yoni that he had some sperm saved? I was hoping they were able to conceive?
June 21, 2024
what a man
Des was mean as hell. I don’t know how anyone could be around him as mean as he portrayed himself. Yoni was too good to be with him. This one was a lot different than I expected. Even Still good reading.
Happy Reading‼️
Des was mean as hell. I don’t know how anyone could be around him as mean as he portrayed himself. Yoni was too good to be with him. This one was a lot different than I expected. Even Still good reading.
Happy Reading‼️
September 3, 2024
Was a great read!
I found it strange that there was a scene where Des gave his sample to put away in order to have kids later. However this sample was forgotten and he kept saying he could never have kids. Did the author forgot about the sample or what?
I found it strange that there was a scene where Des gave his sample to put away in order to have kids later. However this sample was forgotten and he kept saying he could never have kids. Did the author forgot about the sample or what?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews