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Lassiter Sisters #1
Never
Never say what love can't—or won't—do.
Balloon Artist Gadiya Lassiter never imagined waking up without the love of her life, small-town fire chief Nico Dupree. Then one day, it becomes her tortured reality. Fast-forward two years…he's back and making his intentions to rekindle their flame known. But she vows to never love him again. As determined as she is to keep her heart out of his hands, love seems to have its own agenda.
For Nico, returning home to Mount Pleasance, North Carolina is not without its benefits. The most valuable, Gadiya. He’s determined to reclaim her heart—despite her obvious goal to hate him. But he’s not giving up on her; not again. He’ll just have to convince her the disdain she harbors for him is far less potent than the love he knows she still has for him. And he'll do it one scorching kiss at a time.
As their attraction grows hotter and hotter, will Gadiya be able to escape the flames, or will Nico's fire consume her?
Balloon Artist Gadiya Lassiter never imagined waking up without the love of her life, small-town fire chief Nico Dupree. Then one day, it becomes her tortured reality. Fast-forward two years…he's back and making his intentions to rekindle their flame known. But she vows to never love him again. As determined as she is to keep her heart out of his hands, love seems to have its own agenda.
For Nico, returning home to Mount Pleasance, North Carolina is not without its benefits. The most valuable, Gadiya. He’s determined to reclaim her heart—despite her obvious goal to hate him. But he’s not giving up on her; not again. He’ll just have to convince her the disdain she harbors for him is far less potent than the love he knows she still has for him. And he'll do it one scorching kiss at a time.
As their attraction grows hotter and hotter, will Gadiya be able to escape the flames, or will Nico's fire consume her?
- GenresRomance
173 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 14, 2016
127 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
About the author
Joy Avery
38 books226 followersBy day, Joy Avery works as an engagement manager. By night, the North Carolina native travels to imaginary worlds—creating characters whose romantic journeys invariably end happily ever after.
Since she was a young girl growing up in Garner, Joy knew she wanted to write. Stumbling onto romance novels, she discovered her passion for love stories; instantly, she knew these were the type stories she wanted to pen.
Real characters. Real journeys. Real good love is what you’ll find in a Joy Avery romance.
Joy is a member of Romance Writers of America.
Since she was a young girl growing up in Garner, Joy knew she wanted to write. Stumbling onto romance novels, she discovered her passion for love stories; instantly, she knew these were the type stories she wanted to pen.
Real characters. Real journeys. Real good love is what you’ll find in a Joy Avery romance.
Joy is a member of Romance Writers of America.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
November 19, 2017
Good read!
This was a good quick read! Not too many juicy moments. The author kept me entertained and I like the love that was shown
This was a good quick read! Not too many juicy moments. The author kept me entertained and I like the love that was shown
April 1, 2023
This was a second chance romance. Nico and Gadiya were an interesting couple. I really wanted to like this book. I didn't dislike it, it was kind of meh.
I didn't feel any chemistry between the two mc's. Gadiya's behavior at the beginning of the book was off putting. I had no expectation of her to welcome Nico with open arms. I just dislike people that are rude. Stay away from them rather than be unpleasant. Maybe if I had felt some connection between them, it wouldn't have mattered as much.
Then, the stunt she pulled at the firehouse was ott. Especially after the man went above and beyond to make her event happen. She could have handled that better.
They did eventually end up with their HEA. I wish there had been an epilogue or something more instead of the book ending where it did. It wasn't a bad read.
I did like her sister Rana. I did like Nico. I did like the elderly lady who she taught chair Zumba. I thought Gadiya was irritating. Other than that, this book didn't really stir much emotion in me at all. I would recommend you read it and judge for yourself.
I didn't feel any chemistry between the two mc's. Gadiya's behavior at the beginning of the book was off putting. I had no expectation of her to welcome Nico with open arms. I just dislike people that are rude. Stay away from them rather than be unpleasant. Maybe if I had felt some connection between them, it wouldn't have mattered as much.
Then, the stunt she pulled at the firehouse was ott. Especially after the man went above and beyond to make her event happen. She could have handled that better.
They did eventually end up with their HEA. I wish there had been an epilogue or something more instead of the book ending where it did. It wasn't a bad read.
I did like her sister Rana. I did like Nico. I did like the elderly lady who she taught chair Zumba. I thought Gadiya was irritating. Other than that, this book didn't really stir much emotion in me at all. I would recommend you read it and judge for yourself.
July 4, 2017
My review for Never by Joy Avery
Joy Avery pens the sweetest romance novellas. I really enjoyed this one because from the very first chapter you could see how intense the feelings were between the main characters. You meet Nico Dupree, the handsome new Fire Chief and Gadiya Lassiter, the feisty Zumba instructor.
The way the author orchestrated the events that took place in this story made me feel as if I was this emotional journey with them. I laughed some and I fought back tears as well. It's a sweet love story--one that you're sure to enjoy. It was a novella so it was a quick read which I enjoyed. If you're looking for something that you can enjoy in a short amount of time, this is your story. Very good job. Four stars!!!!
Joy Avery pens the sweetest romance novellas. I really enjoyed this one because from the very first chapter you could see how intense the feelings were between the main characters. You meet Nico Dupree, the handsome new Fire Chief and Gadiya Lassiter, the feisty Zumba instructor.
The way the author orchestrated the events that took place in this story made me feel as if I was this emotional journey with them. I laughed some and I fought back tears as well. It's a sweet love story--one that you're sure to enjoy. It was a novella so it was a quick read which I enjoyed. If you're looking for something that you can enjoy in a short amount of time, this is your story. Very good job. Four stars!!!!
August 12, 2023
Never Say Never
“Never (Lassiter Sisters - Book 1) was a delightful sweet second chance at love romance novella. Brokenhearted, former lovers Nico & Gadiya discover the reality of family tragedies (both individually & collectively), navigate through traumatic memories while considering rekindling the dynamics of friendship and love lost. This book was a great read. More so, I appreciate & applause Ms. Avery’s contributions to the black romance genre & e-book platform with this novella/Lassiter sisters series. The plot/storyline was realistic; The characters were relatable characters; Regular middle-class citizens. …a wonderful couple & beautiful story ! Thank you! 👏🏽👏🏾👏🏿😊☺️‼️ …Prayerfully, books two & three are equally pleasant!
“Never (Lassiter Sisters - Book 1) was a delightful sweet second chance at love romance novella. Brokenhearted, former lovers Nico & Gadiya discover the reality of family tragedies (both individually & collectively), navigate through traumatic memories while considering rekindling the dynamics of friendship and love lost. This book was a great read. More so, I appreciate & applause Ms. Avery’s contributions to the black romance genre & e-book platform with this novella/Lassiter sisters series. The plot/storyline was realistic; The characters were relatable characters; Regular middle-class citizens. …a wonderful couple & beautiful story ! Thank you! 👏🏽👏🏾👏🏿😊☺️‼️ …Prayerfully, books two & three are equally pleasant!
January 29, 2024
Another winner
Second chance romance is usually not my fave but Avery writes it so well weaving a whole new relationship out of the old. Nico is everything and is on a mission to win Gadiya back after all these years. Both of them are still reeling from the deaths of their parents and suicide of Gadiyas brother and Nicos best friend. They have to work to keep all this death and memories from consuming them and keeping them apart. Great quick read and can't wait to read the other sisters stories.
Second chance romance is usually not my fave but Avery writes it so well weaving a whole new relationship out of the old. Nico is everything and is on a mission to win Gadiya back after all these years. Both of them are still reeling from the deaths of their parents and suicide of Gadiyas brother and Nicos best friend. They have to work to keep all this death and memories from consuming them and keeping them apart. Great quick read and can't wait to read the other sisters stories.
November 18, 2016
Another awesome book by Ms Joy Avery. I could not put this book down when I read it yesterday a real page turner. Who wouldn't love a strong, successful, loving, and sexy man in uniform? Never reminds us that when you are truly in love with a person you understand then without words having to be spoken especially when you have been separated for a period of time.
LaToya Murchison
Author of Poetic Expressions
LaToya Murchison
Author of Poetic Expressions
June 26, 2017
Never say Never
I enjoyed reading this story about the first Lassiter sister, Gadiya, and Nico Dupree. Both of them certainly had issues which were successfully revealed and handled. Kudos to author Joy Avery. These serious issues gave substance to the story. That Greenville! What a character! I enjoyed this story, and I recommend it! Looking forward to reading about the next Lassiter sister.
I enjoyed reading this story about the first Lassiter sister, Gadiya, and Nico Dupree. Both of them certainly had issues which were successfully revealed and handled. Kudos to author Joy Avery. These serious issues gave substance to the story. That Greenville! What a character! I enjoyed this story, and I recommend it! Looking forward to reading about the next Lassiter sister.
May 1, 2023
AWWW❤️❤️❤️❤️
This is my first experience with this writer and I wasn’t disappointed I found this to be a sweet second chance love story that had me hoping that Gadiya and Nico would be able to overcome their past hurts and share their truths with each other, I n order to discover that their Love would never die.
I look forward to reading the other stories of the remaining Lassiter Sisters ☺️❤️
This is my first experience with this writer and I wasn’t disappointed I found this to be a sweet second chance love story that had me hoping that Gadiya and Nico would be able to overcome their past hurts and share their truths with each other, I n order to discover that their Love would never die.
I look forward to reading the other stories of the remaining Lassiter Sisters ☺️❤️
February 25, 2024
Never(Lassiter Sisters Book 1)
Joy Avery did it again. She is such an accomplished writer and storyteller. Gadiya and Nico had been a couple. Then tragedy happened and it destroyed their relationship. Nico is back as the new Fire Chief and he wants to reclaim their relationship. Gadiya is not having it because he hurts to her core. Can they both deal with past hurts and fears in order to mend their broken hearts and come back together as one?
Joy Avery did it again. She is such an accomplished writer and storyteller. Gadiya and Nico had been a couple. Then tragedy happened and it destroyed their relationship. Nico is back as the new Fire Chief and he wants to reclaim their relationship. Gadiya is not having it because he hurts to her core. Can they both deal with past hurts and fears in order to mend their broken hearts and come back together as one?
November 18, 2017
Two thumbs up!
Love is fearless. That is how I feel after reading Nico and Gadiya story. I never thought Gadiya would come to her senses when it came to Nico wanting more from their relationship. But fear should never be the factor of taking that next step in a relationship. Enjoyed the outcome.
Love is fearless. That is how I feel after reading Nico and Gadiya story. I never thought Gadiya would come to her senses when it came to Nico wanting more from their relationship. But fear should never be the factor of taking that next step in a relationship. Enjoyed the outcome.
April 6, 2018
This book showed when a man is wrong and mess up he will do it all to show his LOVE to make it right . Nico did all that needed to be done to fix what he messed up . A Man that can show his Love . Joy Avery you did it in this book . If you love romance and want to read a romance get this book you will really enjoy it .
April 23, 2018
This is my first from this author. This was a different read for me and I really enjoyed it. It’s was way different then I thought it would be. I love the way Nico and Gadiya found there selves back together. I loved the ending it was breathtaking to me all the love to get each other. This was a romance book that I can get into.
August 22, 2017
Good story
This was a good romance story. Nick and Gadiya had to stop being afraid and to stop letting fear rule them. Once that happened, they were free to love each other like they were meant to be.
This was a good romance story. Nick and Gadiya had to stop being afraid and to stop letting fear rule them. Once that happened, they were free to love each other like they were meant to be.
November 5, 2018
Love never gives up❤️
I enjoyed reading this love story. I enjoyed the characters and the flow of this book. I thought it was a good love story about lack of communication and being honest about feelings. I enjoyed the man not giving up on love.
I enjoyed reading this love story. I enjoyed the characters and the flow of this book. I thought it was a good love story about lack of communication and being honest about feelings. I enjoyed the man not giving up on love.
May 16, 2022
Summary
This was a nice lighthearted story . The decisions we make in life can cause unnecessary pain. Characters were great. The story was also entertaining. Good outcome for them .
This was a nice lighthearted story . The decisions we make in life can cause unnecessary pain. Characters were great. The story was also entertaining. Good outcome for them .
October 10, 2022
Never
This was a love story about Gadiya and Nico , they had been apart for over two years. Separated due to a misunderstanding, his return was an attempt in correcting their dispute. After much soul searching and confession they endured their happily ever after.
This was a love story about Gadiya and Nico , they had been apart for over two years. Separated due to a misunderstanding, his return was an attempt in correcting their dispute. After much soul searching and confession they endured their happily ever after.
May 8, 2024
Never
Great story where love won out! The conversation between the sisters about their and there relationship is what most people remember about their parents, the good, the bad and the ugly!
Great story where love won out! The conversation between the sisters about their and there relationship is what most people remember about their parents, the good, the bad and the ugly!
June 27, 2017
Great
I like this story. It was a quick story. Glad the couple got their happy ending. Great read. Ready for the next one
I like this story. It was a quick story. Glad the couple got their happy ending. Great read. Ready for the next one
June 29, 2017
Good
This was a good book I can't wait to read book two. Yes I will be reading more from this author.
This was a good book I can't wait to read book two. Yes I will be reading more from this author.
July 12, 2017
Beautiful Book
I give 5 stars to this book.
The story was so real.
I hope there will be a follow up book to Gads and Nico and her sisters.
I give 5 stars to this book.
The story was so real.
I hope there will be a follow up book to Gads and Nico and her sisters.
April 2, 2018
Great book! Joy Avery always bring the heat, literally with her characters & the love they have for each other. Everybody needs a second chance at love, && I’m happy the couple got it!!
April 18, 2019
Loved it
July 30, 2019
This was such a cute and sexy book. Its got drama aplenty, and it was worked out masterfully. Waste no time getting your copy, it will be the highlight of your day.
July 11, 2022
Enjoyable reading
The characters of this delightful book were amazing, the writing had such flow I had to make myself to take breaks and the comeback and read till the end.
The characters of this delightful book were amazing, the writing had such flow I had to make myself to take breaks and the comeback and read till the end.
November 17, 2022
Love Always Wins
My third book penned by this author and I’m so in love totally captivated by her storylines. On to the next one.
My third book penned by this author and I’m so in love totally captivated by her storylines. On to the next one.
November 30, 2022
Love never fails!
Never say what you will or won't do when it come to matter of the heart. True love always win!
Never say what you will or won't do when it come to matter of the heart. True love always win!
January 8, 2023
Never
What a great story about love and happiness. Gadiya and Nico made a good couple. I enjoyed reading their story. It was full of love. Even though there was a bit of trouble.. love prevailed.
Happy reading!
What a great story about love and happiness. Gadiya and Nico made a good couple. I enjoyed reading their story. It was full of love. Even though there was a bit of trouble.. love prevailed.
Happy reading!
July 8, 2023
beautiful
I love how complex these characters are. In such a short time you get so close to them. I can’t wait to visit Mount Pleasance again in the next book!
I love how complex these characters are. In such a short time you get so close to them. I can’t wait to visit Mount Pleasance again in the next book!
June 13, 2024
Never...
The book was good , but there wasn't much closure for different storylines presented. What happened to Ollie? What happened between he and Davena?
The book was good , but there wasn't much closure for different storylines presented. What happened to Ollie? What happened between he and Davena?
March 17, 2017
All's well that ends well!
Very good novel. I really enjoyed it. Nico and Gadiya finding there way back after such a tragic loss was magical. Loved their story. Looking for much more from Joy Avery. Thanks for a great read!
Very good novel. I really enjoyed it. Nico and Gadiya finding there way back after such a tragic loss was magical. Loved their story. Looking for much more from Joy Avery. Thanks for a great read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews