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Introduction to Love and Self
As young children, the lives of Seven Thomas and Lisa Harris briefly connect after Lisa’s parents unexpectedly abandon her. Their interaction had a profound effect on them both. When Lisa is sent to live with relatives, the two are sure they will never see each other again.
Eighteen years later, Seven often wonders what happened to the girl who lived down the hall. He never forgot her or the objectionable circumstances under which they lived. Lisa, now twenty-six, realizes that she has lived in a cocoon for years, putting her life on hold to care for her grandmother. Upon her grandmother’s death, she has no regrets, only an eagerness to begin anew. Lisa throws herself back into life, but after years of abuse, she shies away from romantic connections.
Fate steps in at the Plaza Hotel in Manhattan, bringing Seven and Lisa face to face with the past—and possibly their future. Seven is still scarred by his childhood—his father’s absence and his mother’s prostitution—and Lisa has never experienced true intimacy. Will they be able to take their lives in a new direction?
Introduction to Love and Self tells the passionate tale of a man and woman who share an indelible connection. Follow them as they embark upon a tantalizing sexual journey, seeking the trust and love that each desperately craves.
244 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 5, 2006
85 people are currently reading
218 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
July 25, 2024
Family Trauma Is Real
Seven & Lisa went through it, they each had a lifetime of past trauma and pain inside them. Lisa’s parents leaving her was the best thing for her, she had an extended family waiting to love and care for her. Seven and his mother Betty had a family too to share love and support, but didn’t realize it until over two decades laters….better late than never. After Seven and Lisa reconnected, the two still had past issues to deal with before they could get to their HEA.
Seven & Lisa went through it, they each had a lifetime of past trauma and pain inside them. Lisa’s parents leaving her was the best thing for her, she had an extended family waiting to love and care for her. Seven and his mother Betty had a family too to share love and support, but didn’t realize it until over two decades laters….better late than never. After Seven and Lisa reconnected, the two still had past issues to deal with before they could get to their HEA.
July 25, 2024
“I’m whole with you, baby.”
Some people write books while others tell a story and give you a full experience that has you time traveling into the world they create! Those that tell a story immerses you in their world to where you feel what the characters feel, see what they see, hear what they hear. You essentially become the characters. Very few authors and I do mean very few can accomplish this but I can confidently say that Joan is one of those authors for me. She is consistent and you know that when you crack open her books or press play on an audio that you are in for a treat. This book was published back in 2016 and it STILL gave BIG JOAN ENERGY!
The way I LOVED LOVED LOED this book!! I mean Joan!! It was so good! It was emotional, it was hopeful, it was LOVE! Deep LOVE! Loud LOVE! Proud LOVE! Fearful LOVE! Redemptive LOVE! Just…..LOVE! 🩵💙🩵💙
Lisa and Seven had brief yet impactful encounter in their younger years. Growing up in the same projects they became privy to each other’s neglect and abuse. They were young however even at their small ages lived FULL traumatic lives. After an unfortunate turn of events they were separated. And even though they went their separate ways, their place in each other’s hearts was solidified.
Many years later these two cross paths again and the connection was instant. Even before the familiarity was confirmed the connection was electric. As they navigate through life and reconnect, they find that their childhood trauma has bled into their adult lives more than they care to admit and it’s threatening everything they are trying to build with each other.
💙 It was the familial bonds for me
🩵 It was Seven and grandpa for me 🥰 like every scene with these two squeezed my heart just a little bit more each time.
💙 It was Christmas Day for me 🥹
🩵 It was Seven “courting” Lisa the old school way for me.
As I approach my last few books in Joan’s catalog it’s a bit bitter sweet because she has quickly skyrocketed to the top of my favs! I will forever support any project she puts out because it’s the only right decision to make. Please do yourselves a favor and indulge in this story! You will not be disappointed.
Some people write books while others tell a story and give you a full experience that has you time traveling into the world they create! Those that tell a story immerses you in their world to where you feel what the characters feel, see what they see, hear what they hear. You essentially become the characters. Very few authors and I do mean very few can accomplish this but I can confidently say that Joan is one of those authors for me. She is consistent and you know that when you crack open her books or press play on an audio that you are in for a treat. This book was published back in 2016 and it STILL gave BIG JOAN ENERGY!
The way I LOVED LOVED LOED this book!! I mean Joan!! It was so good! It was emotional, it was hopeful, it was LOVE! Deep LOVE! Loud LOVE! Proud LOVE! Fearful LOVE! Redemptive LOVE! Just…..LOVE! 🩵💙🩵💙
Lisa and Seven had brief yet impactful encounter in their younger years. Growing up in the same projects they became privy to each other’s neglect and abuse. They were young however even at their small ages lived FULL traumatic lives. After an unfortunate turn of events they were separated. And even though they went their separate ways, their place in each other’s hearts was solidified.
Many years later these two cross paths again and the connection was instant. Even before the familiarity was confirmed the connection was electric. As they navigate through life and reconnect, they find that their childhood trauma has bled into their adult lives more than they care to admit and it’s threatening everything they are trying to build with each other.
💙 It was the familial bonds for me
🩵 It was Seven and grandpa for me 🥰 like every scene with these two squeezed my heart just a little bit more each time.
💙 It was Christmas Day for me 🥹
🩵 It was Seven “courting” Lisa the old school way for me.
As I approach my last few books in Joan’s catalog it’s a bit bitter sweet because she has quickly skyrocketed to the top of my favs! I will forever support any project she puts out because it’s the only right decision to make. Please do yourselves a favor and indulge in this story! You will not be disappointed.
July 26, 2024
This was my first introduction to Joan and I can say this was a good read. I hope to read more from her.
January 1, 2022
A lot to unpack
Knowing that this was the first release by this author, you can see her signature moves. The character development and engaging storyline along with the rawness of reality made this story authentic. It is not your typical romance story as both Seven and Lisa came from traumatic youth that shaped their decisions and movements as adults. Both were broken in their own ways yet found solace, peace, and love in each others arms. When Seven had to face the ugliness of his past in the revealing of his father it almost destroyed the fragile love he had for Lisa. As the title of the book demonstrates, Seven and Lisa had to discover themselves before truly embracing the love that they both deserved. This was a great first offering from this author and confirmation of why she is one of my top favorite authors.
Knowing that this was the first release by this author, you can see her signature moves. The character development and engaging storyline along with the rawness of reality made this story authentic. It is not your typical romance story as both Seven and Lisa came from traumatic youth that shaped their decisions and movements as adults. Both were broken in their own ways yet found solace, peace, and love in each others arms. When Seven had to face the ugliness of his past in the revealing of his father it almost destroyed the fragile love he had for Lisa. As the title of the book demonstrates, Seven and Lisa had to discover themselves before truly embracing the love that they both deserved. This was a great first offering from this author and confirmation of why she is one of my top favorite authors.
April 29, 2023
Deliverance
Life dealt Seven & Lisa a bad had from this horrific cycle of other's poor choices. But they both were delivered and granted grace. Joan describes all the complications so well to give clarity into how it could be this for them. From that clarity, they were freed from everything that tried to steal their joy! Great Read!
Life dealt Seven & Lisa a bad had from this horrific cycle of other's poor choices. But they both were delivered and granted grace. Joan describes all the complications so well to give clarity into how it could be this for them. From that clarity, they were freed from everything that tried to steal their joy! Great Read!
January 7, 2022
OMGOSH!!!
An absolutely beautiful story!! I loved it all!! I cried at the end...just a little!! Great job JV on the books I've read from you so far!!!
An absolutely beautiful story!! I loved it all!! I cried at the end...just a little!! Great job JV on the books I've read from you so far!!!
May 19, 2021
I shouldn't be surprised by the extent of Joan Vassar's ability to write historical fiction and / or contemporary literature in such a way that it is always relevant, engaging, and dynamic. Or maybe I should say I'm more stunned that someone of her caliber has been overlooked by the populous.
Ms. Vassar's ability to write in movie like quality allows the reader to be a voyeur in her character's lives. The reader is able to feel emotionally what the character feels. More times than I can count my heart hurt for the main characters of this story.
A very significant line in the story "it's not how you start out but where you end up." This line resonates to me. The characters were dealt a terrible hand during childhood. Each carried baggage from their childhood. I found it fascinating that the hurt and baggage drew them together but also threaten to kill the relationship. Ultimately as the saying goes you can't truly love someone if you can't first love yourself. This theme was poignant and revealed other characters that were too struggling to find self love.
Ms. Vassar's ability to write in movie like quality allows the reader to be a voyeur in her character's lives. The reader is able to feel emotionally what the character feels. More times than I can count my heart hurt for the main characters of this story.
A very significant line in the story "it's not how you start out but where you end up." This line resonates to me. The characters were dealt a terrible hand during childhood. Each carried baggage from their childhood. I found it fascinating that the hurt and baggage drew them together but also threaten to kill the relationship. Ultimately as the saying goes you can't truly love someone if you can't first love yourself. This theme was poignant and revealed other characters that were too struggling to find self love.
March 22, 2018
Love, love, love, perfect.
This novel was perfect, I stumbled on this novel when I was looking to read the black series AGAIN. I didn't know what to expect because some of my favorite authors who write historical and contemporary novels always fall short on their contemporary work, but not Joan Vassar.
This couple knew each other when they were kids both grew up in tragic circumstances due to the adults in their lives. I loved how it showed their growth, but also the emotional scars that made the growth difficult. I am compulsive when it comes to a great read and I will be thinking about this one for a long time. I have a short re-read list and this will definitely be added!!
This novel was perfect, I stumbled on this novel when I was looking to read the black series AGAIN. I didn't know what to expect because some of my favorite authors who write historical and contemporary novels always fall short on their contemporary work, but not Joan Vassar.
This couple knew each other when they were kids both grew up in tragic circumstances due to the adults in their lives. I loved how it showed their growth, but also the emotional scars that made the growth difficult. I am compulsive when it comes to a great read and I will be thinking about this one for a long time. I have a short re-read list and this will definitely be added!!
September 28, 2018
Interesting
Some things to me were left unanswered. How was he able to go to college? How was he able to start his career? A lot was said about Lisa but not him. I did enjoy the story
Some things to me were left unanswered. How was he able to go to college? How was he able to start his career? A lot was said about Lisa but not him. I did enjoy the story
September 1, 2024
I've heard so much about Joan Vassar books, so when I stumbled upon this one, I thought why not. I was immediately pulled into Seven's experience as he tells us of how he grew up, and the trauma he experienced with Betty. When he meets Lisa, they quickly connect as they understand what it is like growing up neglectful and abusive parents. When they are separated, you wonder what will happen to them and if they will see each other again later in life.
Many years later they do bump into each other, and this is where I am indifferent. I did not feel any chemistry between these two as adults. It was more like a reconnection with someone who was familiar, and who understood their backstory. As they spent more time together, and feelings began to grow, so did insecurities, unhealed trauma, pain, grief, shame, and doubt.
I felt for Seven as he tried to overcome all his demons past and present but was angry with him for treating those around him like ish, when he knew it was wrong to do so. He felt the shame as soon as he f'd up but couldn't stop himself. 😤 I will read another one of Ms. Vassar's books, as I know this one is older. I liked it and all the emotions it brought forth, just didn't love it. 🤷🏾♀️
Many years later they do bump into each other, and this is where I am indifferent. I did not feel any chemistry between these two as adults. It was more like a reconnection with someone who was familiar, and who understood their backstory. As they spent more time together, and feelings began to grow, so did insecurities, unhealed trauma, pain, grief, shame, and doubt.
I felt for Seven as he tried to overcome all his demons past and present but was angry with him for treating those around him like ish, when he knew it was wrong to do so. He felt the shame as soon as he f'd up but couldn't stop himself. 😤 I will read another one of Ms. Vassar's books, as I know this one is older. I liked it and all the emotions it brought forth, just didn't love it. 🤷🏾♀️
October 2, 2021
I enjoyed reading this book. This is the third or fourth book I have read by this author. After I read several books by Ms. Vassar in the Black series, I went looking for another book by this author. I found that either the historical or contemporary period of the novel, it was so relatable to me as a person of African descent. I thought how many people I’ve encountered in my life struggling with past issues that affect personal growth and relationships.
In every book that I have read by the author, I appreciated the cross generational wisdom past down. So often the younger generation is held in the dark because someone is trying to protect and shield them from past hurt. Often the truth is taken to grave and finding one’s self is very difficult. It is my hope that as a people we can continue to learn and pass on this strength to our younger generation to help them to learn to navigate life’s turmoil’s and know there is no shame in seeking therapy and help for emotional struggles.
In every book that I have read by the author, I appreciated the cross generational wisdom past down. So often the younger generation is held in the dark because someone is trying to protect and shield them from past hurt. Often the truth is taken to grave and finding one’s self is very difficult. It is my hope that as a people we can continue to learn and pass on this strength to our younger generation to help them to learn to navigate life’s turmoil’s and know there is no shame in seeking therapy and help for emotional struggles.
July 20, 2023
Breathtaking ❤
When you start crying at page one of a book, you know your life is about to be messed up! There are triggers in this story and a rape that is addressed. The beautiful side of ugly is how the journey of Seven and Lisa started. There was so much pain and redemption in this story.
It is a touchy subject, I know. I surely know that this is not a popular opinion and I've never been in this situation...I think about my friends that I know were the product of rape and my eyes leak at the thought of my life without them. God is the giver of life, period. This is just my opinion.
As a society, we would judge Betty harshly. She was victimized and made what she deemed as the best choice for her. Thank God, she got redemption too.
It took me years to read this book. I now understand why. I look forward to reading other works by this author. Whew, woosah!
When you start crying at page one of a book, you know your life is about to be messed up! There are triggers in this story and a rape that is addressed. The beautiful side of ugly is how the journey of Seven and Lisa started. There was so much pain and redemption in this story.
It is a touchy subject, I know. I surely know that this is not a popular opinion and I've never been in this situation...I think about my friends that I know were the product of rape and my eyes leak at the thought of my life without them. God is the giver of life, period. This is just my opinion.
As a society, we would judge Betty harshly. She was victimized and made what she deemed as the best choice for her. Thank God, she got redemption too.
It took me years to read this book. I now understand why. I look forward to reading other works by this author. Whew, woosah!
December 6, 2020
A fantastic reading experience...very thought provoking
I highly recommend this book; there are many conflicts that are resolved through honest reflection and communication. There is an age of innocence breached by poor adult attitudes and behavior, but Seven and Lisa are victorious and overcome varying obstacles which began when he they reside in the same apartment complex and attend the same elementary school. This author has what I believe is deep appreciation for `first love' experience and longevity; through pain and suffering people can still have healthy, thriving, meaningful relationships.
I highly recommend this book; there are many conflicts that are resolved through honest reflection and communication. There is an age of innocence breached by poor adult attitudes and behavior, but Seven and Lisa are victorious and overcome varying obstacles which began when he they reside in the same apartment complex and attend the same elementary school. This author has what I believe is deep appreciation for `first love' experience and longevity; through pain and suffering people can still have healthy, thriving, meaningful relationships.
March 17, 2021
Wow
This was a beautiful book. I felt all of the emotions many times throughout reading it. I love Joan Vassar and the author she is and the artist she is. The characters were so real and relatable, which I can say is true of the characters she creates, no matter what time period or life situation she paints them in. I learned a lot during this reading experience and I gleaned some powerful wisdom. All unexpected, but welcome. This is a fantastic read and will definitely not disappoint. Well done.
This was a beautiful book. I felt all of the emotions many times throughout reading it. I love Joan Vassar and the author she is and the artist she is. The characters were so real and relatable, which I can say is true of the characters she creates, no matter what time period or life situation she paints them in. I learned a lot during this reading experience and I gleaned some powerful wisdom. All unexpected, but welcome. This is a fantastic read and will definitely not disappoint. Well done.
October 3, 2021
Love
Every time I pick up a Joan Vassar book I'm never disappointed. I fall more in love with this woman creativity and pen game. The character Seven was written with so much vulnerability, compassion, love with no boundaries. My heart went out to both of
them. Her character Lisa was so strong, straightforward. She didn't let her past break her. The sins of our parents are real some of us fight these demons everyday. Thank God for a good support system. A great read pick up.
Every time I pick up a Joan Vassar book I'm never disappointed. I fall more in love with this woman creativity and pen game. The character Seven was written with so much vulnerability, compassion, love with no boundaries. My heart went out to both of
them. Her character Lisa was so strong, straightforward. She didn't let her past break her. The sins of our parents are real some of us fight these demons everyday. Thank God for a good support system. A great read pick up.
November 26, 2021
A cute story.
This was such a cute love story, the author explained the trauma between Seven & his mother thoroughly and gave us much to think about in regards to those type of traumas and the effects on everyone around. I really liked Lisa and was thankful that she did not allow her lack of experience to allow her to be weak and did what she needed to do when the situation no longer served her. Overall, i thought the book was sweet and very in depth.
This was such a cute love story, the author explained the trauma between Seven & his mother thoroughly and gave us much to think about in regards to those type of traumas and the effects on everyone around. I really liked Lisa and was thankful that she did not allow her lack of experience to allow her to be weak and did what she needed to do when the situation no longer served her. Overall, i thought the book was sweet and very in depth.
June 23, 2018
A beautiful Love Story
I live this story. These guys meet when they were young and came back together later in life. They had some deep issues that they should have worked on before they got together. However that did not stop there love. It slowed it down, but did not stop it. I really, really enjoyed. Seven and Lisa deserve each other and the love they had together.
I live this story. These guys meet when they were young and came back together later in life. They had some deep issues that they should have worked on before they got together. However that did not stop there love. It slowed it down, but did not stop it. I really, really enjoyed. Seven and Lisa deserve each other and the love they had together.
March 22, 2020
Had my heart beating!
I don't remember how I came across this book, but glad I did! When I got to a certain point in the book, I just had to stay up until I finished it. I definitely will be checking out more from this author. I am always on the hunt to explore the writings of Black authors in all genres...sci fi, mystery, Black Love and more!
I don't remember how I came across this book, but glad I did! When I got to a certain point in the book, I just had to stay up until I finished it. I definitely will be checking out more from this author. I am always on the hunt to explore the writings of Black authors in all genres...sci fi, mystery, Black Love and more!
November 1, 2021
Lisa and Seven, a love story
This was a love story in every sense of the word - boy meets girl, boy loves girl, boys loses girl, boy finds himself, then boy get girl. I absolutely enjoyed this novel. There are a lot of people who thought they were broken, only to find that their journeys were simply unfinished. I'm happy to have been along for the ride. I highly recommend this beautiful story. Ms. Vassar is an accomplished writer and brilliant storyteller.
This was a love story in every sense of the word - boy meets girl, boy loves girl, boys loses girl, boy finds himself, then boy get girl. I absolutely enjoyed this novel. There are a lot of people who thought they were broken, only to find that their journeys were simply unfinished. I'm happy to have been along for the ride. I highly recommend this beautiful story. Ms. Vassar is an accomplished writer and brilliant storyteller.
July 2, 2018
A little hard to read!
The premise of the book was good, but it was a little hard to read. Steven's reactions didn't make sense, but I guess that's how he learned to deal with his issues growing up.
The premise of the book was good, but it was a little hard to read. Steven's reactions didn't make sense, but I guess that's how he learned to deal with his issues growing up.
July 30, 2018
Great Book!
This was a good book! I can't believe it was written over 12years ago, it felt so current. I hope the author will put out more contemporary adult romance books, because this book was great. I loved Seven and Lisa, and would love an update on their lives now.
This was a good book! I can't believe it was written over 12years ago, it felt so current. I hope the author will put out more contemporary adult romance books, because this book was great. I loved Seven and Lisa, and would love an update on their lives now.
August 7, 2018
Intriguing Story
This was captivating and full of emotions, both sad and happy. What's more the unexpected meeting of the two main characters after so many years is nothing but a miracle.
This was an enjoyable page turner.
This was captivating and full of emotions, both sad and happy. What's more the unexpected meeting of the two main characters after so many years is nothing but a miracle.
This was an enjoyable page turner.
December 9, 2021
Romantic Story
You can literally feel the depth of Lisa and Seven's love from the beginning to the end of the book. Their love for each other overshadowed any obstacles. Great love story that will have you feeling that true love wins every time.
You can literally feel the depth of Lisa and Seven's love from the beginning to the end of the book. Their love for each other overshadowed any obstacles. Great love story that will have you feeling that true love wins every time.
August 8, 2023
Again, emotional warfare
Joan Vassar finds every way to twist the knife in a way that has you begging for more. My heart literally ached for Seven from beginning to end. This book was perfect.
Joan Vassar finds every way to twist the knife in a way that has you begging for more. My heart literally ached for Seven from beginning to end. This book was perfect.
August 27, 2023
She never misses!
Joan Vassar quickly became one of my favorite authors after reading the first in the Black series. I completed it and found this gem shortly afterwards. Amazing story full of love and self discovery. Brava!
Joan Vassar quickly became one of my favorite authors after reading the first in the Black series. I completed it and found this gem shortly afterwards. Amazing story full of love and self discovery. Brava!
May 6, 2025
I am a reader not a writer.
I have read eight of your books ln the last 45 days. l loved each and every one of them. I left 5 stars for each. I will leave 5 stars for this one. I wished that he had bought her an American can.
I will read every book that you write. D. Cooper
I have read eight of your books ln the last 45 days. l loved each and every one of them. I left 5 stars for each. I will leave 5 stars for this one. I wished that he had bought her an American can.
I will read every book that you write. D. Cooper
June 25, 2018
Best romance novel.
I don't usually write reviews but this book is the bomb, I laughed and cried couldn't put the book down till the end.
I don't usually write reviews but this book is the bomb, I laughed and cried couldn't put the book down till the end.
January 29, 2019
Really good
I truly enjoyed the stories. I loved the characters in the book. I would definitely recommend it. I look forward to other books by this author.
I truly enjoyed the stories. I loved the characters in the book. I would definitely recommend it. I look forward to other books by this author.
November 29, 2020
Explores the shell left behind when children are emotionally neglected and left behind by those who should love them the most.
March 22, 2021
Beautiful
This is a beautiful story of love, survival, forgiveness and understanding our emotions. We are all meant to love and to be loved in return
This is a beautiful story of love, survival, forgiveness and understanding our emotions. We are all meant to love and to be loved in return
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews