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Gems & Gents #8

Phire: I'm Just Saying

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Growing up in a family of overachievers isn’t easy for feisty co-ed, Sapphire Lassiter. With eleven older brothers and sisters, they all have opinions on what she should do with her life. Phire, as everyone called her, of course, has other plans. No one promised you rainbows and sunshine. Lawrence Trent Palmer never forgot those words for they molded his life. LT, as he prefers to be called, became a multi-millionaire before the age of thirty. This granted him the means to accomplish his life’s Vengeance. He had a plan until, a fight, a dance and a woman changed it all. After pulling Phire from a confrontation during a political event, captured on camera, LT is warned to stay away by her larger than life brothers. The feel and vision of her in his arms would not allow him to just let go. Feisty, opinionated, and unforgettable, Phire had his mind on marriage, family and a different kind of future. With Phire at his side LT’s plan for vengeance is off, until the past stokes the flame and threatens the life of the woman he would kill—even family—to have—I’m Just Saying.

435 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 25, 2017

54 people are currently reading
59 people want to read

About the author

Iris Bolling

55 books412 followers
Iris Bolling is an award-winning USA Today bestselling author of five series totaling over thirty romantic suspense novels. In addition to writing, she has produced and directed several books to film projects, and scriptwriting projects for other authors.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
Profile Image for Kathy.
292 reviews
January 5, 2018
Great and funny read.

I have been reading Iris Bolling from book one. She has not failed me yet. Iris has written a wonderful book that’s believable and funny. My favorite characters in this one was the senior citizens. Joe,Sally, Mrs.Natalie, Mr.Green and Carrie had me laughing out loud. LT and Sapphire were great together and very believable in the relationship regardless of the age difference. I absolutely loved it and look forward the next book. Congratulations Iris.

#cillasbookmaniacs
Profile Image for Susan.
33 reviews
December 26, 2017
Phire!!!

Wow! what can I say, I have been anticipating this book for a couple of years now, and as usual Iris did not dissapoint! Iris introduced us to Sapphire Lassiter as a 16 yr old young lady who had no problem with saying what everyone was thinking but would never say out loud a couple of years ago, We knew when it was her turn in the Gems and Gents series the man picked for her would have his work cut out for him, and what type of may Iris would create for her. knowing the Lassiter men in her family he would have some pretty big shoes to fill literally & figuratively lol. We get LT Palmer: Smart, Sexy, Rich and not here for Phire and her mouth or the havoc she wreaks on his body, heart and mind. As we watch Phire & LT navigate each other, you cannot help but be in the background cheering them on. Iris knocks this long awaited story out of the park! I didn't want it to end as I don't with all of her stories, and as usual, Iris leaves us with questions (Jade & Blake) awaiting the next installment of the Gems & Gents. Loved it!!! Bravo Iris!!!!
Profile Image for Cherryl.
2,133 reviews1 follower
January 3, 2018
Don't mess with those Lassiter sisters!!

They don't play. I loved the interactions between all of the Lassiter family. They are an example of what a good, loving and supportive family is all about. That was the one thing that LT felt cheated on with the death of his mother at a young age. He immediately felt the love in that family and knew that was what he needed in his life.

I just love the pursuit / non pursuit that Phire and LT did around each other. They were too cute how they both denied how they felt about each other to other people all well knowing they were both dying inside. They were both complicated characters that had situations to figure out. Phire, being the feisty, strong willed and highly opinionated young woman with an old soul, just had to help LT in getting his heart straight, so far as the dealing with the situations surrounding the death of his mother was concerned.

The author wrote a well developed storyline with strong and complicated male and female characters. The drama surrounding the plot was on point and well delivered. The plot twist at the end surrounding LT's mother 's death took me by surprise. I did not see it coming. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It kept my interest from beginning to end.
Profile Image for Bridget.
458 reviews13 followers
January 15, 2019
Phire and Fire

The story of LT and Sapphire was a long time coming, but I'm so glad they finally got their love story! This book touched on the redemptive power of love and not letting the past keep you from your present blessings!
Profile Image for MidnightAce.
189 reviews
December 29, 2017
The long-awaited story of the youngest of the Gem and Gents clan, Sapphire was worth it. We all knew the man worthy to take on this sassy little gem had to be confident, intelligent and able to hold his own. LT has answered the call of duty and the intense passion with LT and Phire, had us anticipating the night that LT makes her a woman.

This read was just in time for the family gathering, which is never a dull moment in Lassiter Land. It was in full affect with the roasting of the new comer LT, family football game, annoucements of new additions and a visit from Mr. President.

In true Iris Bolling fashion no one escapes the story without suspense, deception and murder.
Profile Image for KBeautiful1.
690 reviews67 followers
May 22, 2019
I have been waiting for Sapphire's aka Phire book for a long time, (Yes I know its been out for quite a while now and I downloaded the book when it first dropped) but I wanted to wait before reading it.

Sapphire aka Phire has met her match, in a young man by the name of LT Palmer whom she crossed path's within a previous book. Phire is the youngest of twelve children (Joe and Sally Lassiter), so she has grown up in a family full of love, craziness, protection, and strength but being the youngest often means asserting yourself so you wouldn't get lost in the group. So at times, her mouth leads before anything which in turn gets her into trouble and Phire finds out rather quickly that LT is not the one to play with.

LT Palmer was raised by his grandmother when his mom was murdered, he was only two years old and despite his grandmother losing her only child, Ms. Natalie was determined to raise LT right, she wanted revenge and justice but she didn't want to become bitter because she had a child to raise now. LT grew up super smart like his mother, hot-headed at times, became a self-made millionaire while still in college and wanted to do right by his neighborhood he grew up in. Now that he has thrown his hat in the arena to run for Mayor, there are things that need to be handled. LT knows not everyone is on board for his run at Mayor, he also knows the corruption that lies within and is determined to not only win the race but to clean up and get rid of all corruption.

LT has decided to stop running from Phire, Phire is determined to wear LT down, can these two be together without self-combusting? LT is learning that there is fire, and then there is "PHIRE." Phire is learning that LT is not a boy but a "MAN'S, MAN'S"

I am so glad that we got a chance to see Tucker and Turk (in the prologue, I was wondering how they were both doing). Also, we got to see President J.D. Harrison and learn he is doing extremely well. Plus the rest of the Lassiter brood.

If I say anymore I will spoil the story so I am going to end it here.

Well Until My Next Review...Ciao Bellas!
Profile Image for Beverly.
766 reviews6 followers
January 18, 2023
Phire 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

As much as I Loved Joshua and Adams story, Phire’s story is right up there with them. Baby gurls story for me was a slow burn ( and I mean that in a very good way☺️) being introduced
To LT Palmer and his back story set the tone for a very suspenseful story. One filled with events that touched many different emotions. By the time LT has his first encounter with Ms. Phire Lassiter I just shook my head and said this is going to be a very bumpy road😂😂😂.

If you have read all the preceding books in this series ,you already know that Phire has no filter at all and even less fear. After all she’s the baby gurl of the Lassiter Family. ☺️❤️

This book has a lot going on and like all the books in the series
There are several sub plots that have a major impact on our two main characters lives. I became so wrapped up In The mystery and suspense of it all that I had to chuckle when I realized that the passion and true chemistry between LT and Phire started like a smoldering fire that should not have even started, yet it refused to go out, and before any thing could be done it had turned into a 12 alarm blaze and there was nothing and no one that was going to be able to put those flames out.❤️❤️❤️🔥🔥🔥🔥.

Yes Samuel,Joshua and Adam are up to their usual ☺️ and Let me just say that LT PALMER fit right In with those three take no prisoners Lassiter Brothers. ☺️❤️.

Wonderful read and I’m looking reading more about Phire and LT’s journey together along with the rest of the growing Lassiter Family. Thank you Ms. Iris Bolling for this warm amazing suspense romance.

779 reviews4 followers
May 5, 2022
The Ohio Players must have named their song After Phire!

The sassy mouthed youngest of Joe and Sally Lassiter's twelve children Phire has fallen in love with none other than the new Mayor-elect LT Palmer! Phire has spent her life observing her parents and her siblings loving the men and women they have joined their lives with. As a result, she is able to recognize love when it shows up in the person of LT Palmer who Grant picked to take his place as candidate for Mayor of the city of Richmond. In an effort to give the man of her love closure regarding his mother's death the Communication Major one Sapphire aka Phire Lassiter begin her own investigation that saw her kidnapped, drugged and eventually rescued by her brother Joshua and the man she loves LT! Along the way we were treated to the Lassiter family holiday football game. We saw Princess ZsaZsa whip the behind of Deidre one of their dorm mates for pushing up on James Jr. I love that as smart mouthed, intelligent and outspoken as Phire is, she is also very intuitive where her friends well being is concerned and her compassionate nature sees her reach out to help but she does not push! I tell you that each of these books I am blessed to read just whets my appetite for more, much more!!!!! Great read honestly and lest I forget, there are some hilarious moments in this book that breaks up the tension of all the other goings on. I almost forgot Ruby and Devin now have twins a boy and a girl and Cynthia and Samuel are pregnant again!
Profile Image for Kay Edmondson.
68 reviews2 followers
December 26, 2017
Fiery Hot…I’m Just Saying!!!
I have always been a fan of a storyline in which the main character is the youngest member of the family. Phire’s story is part of Iris Bolling’s Gems&Gents series but, can be read as a standalone. I liked how Ms Bolling incorporated updates of Phire’s siblings and reintroduced some of my favorite character’s from her previous works.
Iris Bolling held my attention from the beginning to the end as she weaved a story full of suspense and passion. I found myself engrossed in the storyline as I read page after page. It was if I was watching each scene play out right before my eyes. Phire has grown into a beautiful young woman and has caught the eye of the ever so sexy LT Palmer. The fiery chemistry between the two will leave you breathless.” Phire I’m just Saying” is one of Iris Bolling’s best works. I look forward to reading more of her work in the near future.
Profile Image for JigsawGirl.
4,073 reviews
December 24, 2023
LT and Phire's story was not my favorite, yet it was still good.

I understood Phire was young, going through a transition and I had no issue with that. I did feel like it was not decided if she was going to be a kid or an adult. I thought that if LT was going to be the mayor, he needed to wait until Phire could be an adult consistently.

I did like Phire and I did like LT. I just wish that if Phire was going to be so reckless that she had the skill set to back it up or she had clued in her brothers enough to back her up.

Something else about this book was a couple of the subplots (I guess that is what they are called) felt unnecessary or unfinished. I have read a number of this author's books and haven't encountered that before.

I had questions. What was the deal with Mint? What was said to Ebony?

I love it when the Lassiter siblings are together. The fun, humor, love and loyalty are front and center. I would give this 3.5 stars.
Profile Image for Linda Epps - Dillon.
256 reviews4 followers
February 22, 2024
I'm Just Saying

Hold on to your hats. Another great read of the Lassiter family!! The story was a great continuation of this family saga. We finally get to see Sapphire "Phire" grow from adolescent to adulthood. I enjoyed watching her and LT's love story unfold. These two were made for each other. Of course, the story had the usual drama, suspense, twists and turns as well the laugh out loud moments. Did not see the twist coming of LT's mother's death. So glad I decided to reread the books in the correct order. The Lassiter family with their many talents and shenanigans is a great family. Now on to my rereads of Mathew, Jade, Luke and the four weddings. While you can read these books as standalones, I'm glad I went back and purchased the ones not read and read them in the order they were written.
Profile Image for Lisa.
1,892 reviews13 followers
January 1, 2018
I'm just saying!!!

This novel was hot from beginning to end! I loved that Phire and LT took their time to get to know one another and grow into one another. It was a slow burn yet not and sensual from the start! He got to know the Lassiters and all that they were which is full of adventure! The love story was so touching and there was drama, suspense, and action! My only complaint is there were some grammatical errors, a pet peeve of mine but even with that, an excellent story. It had to be hot and sassy for Phire! I was glad Turk and Tucker made an appearance as well as Ty Penndleton, Mr Prez, JD along with some of the others from previous novels! I look forward to Made and Blake's story as well as Phire a d IT's future wedding. Great quite captivating read!!!!
23 reviews
January 2, 2018
Worth the wait

Wasn't sure if I was ready for Phire to grow up and have her own love story because she was the youngest. But, as the author pointed out she has youth, but the wisdom of someone with and old soul.

I absolutely love this author, and her writing skills. She has the rare ability to make every page either interesting, informative, suspenseful, funny or endearing.

I am hoping from this book is that we are about to take another journey the likes of the Heart Series that I am still rereading because I love the books, and I need something to read until her next book. Ms. Bolling, you rock.
Can't wait until the next book, and hope that we Get a Running book, as well as Jade's story.
Profile Image for SassyMama.
1,016 reviews4 followers
January 25, 2018
THRILLING albeit a little predictable...Phire despite her age is an old soul...and despite the age difference between LT and Phire...she was able to teach him somethings...LOVE the way he scolded her and like a child yet he still couldn't control the BURNING desire he felt for...they both patiently waited for when the time was right...I was CAUGHT UP once again in the mystery, suspense, and romance...as ALWAYS there's ALWAYS shenanigans and off-the-chart antics with the Lassiter family and their circle of friends/enemies...LOVE the way once a family member claims you...it becomes the whole family's responsibility to protect the new additions! Can't wait for the next Lassiter's journey to love!
164 reviews2 followers
January 1, 2018
Phire Hot

Phire: I'm Just Saying is hot, hot, hot! This book is a page turner from the beginning to the end. Once you pick it up you will not want to put it down. The chemistry betwen LT and Phire is fiery hot and intense. Once they both get out of their own way and let their hearts and love take full course...the real fireworks begin. Get ready to laugh and enjoy the elements of suspense, romance and the power of love Lassiter family style. Don't worry, the gang is all there...pulling out all the stops. You will not be disappointed!
Profile Image for Kelly Murphy.
321 reviews
January 11, 2018
I’m just saying

Phire was soooooooo doggone good!!!! We have watched Sapphire Lassiter grow over the years. I feel like an Auntie, it’s good to see the woman she has grown to be. Her fistiness and tag line throughout the story is so endearing. LT’s attitude in the beginning really worked my nerves. He treated and spoke to Phire like a child when he didn’t even know her. I was so happy to see him change half way through. His complete transformation is what won me with him. Over all it’s an amazing story and great add to the series. I’m looking forward to the next book
Profile Image for Jennifer.
163 reviews7 followers
February 14, 2022
Phire!!!

This is one of my favorite series and Sapphire's book didn't disappoint. Just like her nickname, Phire and LT are 🔥🔥🔥. Phire has come into her own and she's set her sights on LT. He tries to stay away, but he can't. In order for them to have the kind of relationship Phire desires, she uses her family resources and journalist skills to find out about the murder of LT's mother. A lot of twists and turns are revealed and hearts are broken in Phire. It wouldn't be an Iris Bolling book without them.
46 reviews3 followers
December 27, 2017
Worth the wait!!!

This book was awesome (I'm just saying!!!)!!! The chemistry between Phire and LT oh my!!! I loved getting reacquainted with the Lassitters and Ms Natalie oh my goodness!!! You got to read the book!!! I am ready for the next installment!!! Oh yeah that fine JD made an appearance and Turk and Tucker and the rest of them fine specimens!!! Speaking of Cameo he gotta get a book too...I'm just saying...read the book!!!
Profile Image for Tonya.
282 reviews
January 14, 2018
I'm on the fence

This is my first book by this author and I'm on the fence. I didn't know if the author wanted Phire ro be a woman or a kid! Then what made her so different that she stood out as a woman to LT if her family treated her as a kid? I'm sorry she didn't come off as a set vixen to me still saying mommy and daddy ! Loved the suspense and the idea of blacks playing key roles in politics!
1,231 reviews9 followers
January 15, 2018
Excellent read

Excellent read, I couldn't put the book down. I loved the characters and storyline. LT and Sapphire (Phire) are made for each other. I love the Lassiiters. I was happy the author incorporated beloved characters from her other series. I can't wait for stories on the remaining Gems and Gents as well as friends like JC, James Jr and Zsa Zsa. I have read all of Iris Boiling's books and look forward to the next
. installment.

Profile Image for Pamelon.
911 reviews17 followers
May 5, 2018
Worth the wait!!💗

Phire and L. T. are wonderful together. I enjoyed learning about L. T.'s. history and his connection with Turk and Tucker. Sexy and all that tension between them...As always the family was there to help save the day. I love the Gems and Gents series and my peeps from The Heart series. I love Al (Turk) Day...my man! Thank you for combining the characters. Who's next?👏👏👏
202 reviews12 followers
September 9, 2025
Phire: I'm Just Saying!

I Love this family! But Phire, and LT stole the plot! I loved the person Knife was she got her man! As she said she knew what loved looked like! So it was eazy for her to see the love she and LT would have,she accepted nothing less! Hard to put down because there was so many involved and all played a part in the story! Buy the series you will want the entire family involved, the Lassisters and associates and others!
Profile Image for Paula Davis.
98 reviews2 followers
December 27, 2017
Absolutely love this book!

Phire has been my favorite since she was first introduced. "I'm Just Saying!" I had no doubt that this book wouldn't have been on fire...Phire! Poor LT, God bless him, he never knew what he had until hed felt the burn. Sapphire the gem.

Loved catching up with all the families, especially Turk and JD! Wonderfully written as always. Thank you.
Profile Image for Shone.
1,329 reviews28 followers
December 29, 2017
Intrigue At It's Best

From the first blast to the last "I just saying" I was on the edge of my seat with each turn of a page. I laughed, cried, and said a few "oh shirts". The shock factors were on point, each one leaving me saying WOW!! Iris has knocked another one out of the park.
Profile Image for Mrs..
5,905 reviews103 followers
January 6, 2018
Simply Sassy

The eighth installation in the Gems and Gents was fire as I'd expected. Ms. Bolling did not disappoint or leave us hanging. I liked LT from the start. I'm happy he tried and failed to tame Sapphire. She is smart, sexy, and the total Alpha alike Female.. Loved seeing Joshua and Adam. They always bring explosions to each story. Loved it.
Profile Image for Nicole Baker grant.
588 reviews
January 5, 2018
Amazing Read!

I loved reading about Phire: I'm Just Saying. LT Palmer is a true alpha male that knows what he wants and set out to get it. Phire learn that love can be a powerful drug when you meet the man of your dreams. I hope there will be a sequel to Phire: I'm just saying because I want to know how Phire and LT end up. I definitely recommend this book.
Profile Image for Abby G. Amos.
1,249 reviews3 followers
January 21, 2018
Awesome Read!

I so Loved reading this book! Every book written by this author is EXCELLENT!!!!! I love Phire's character, and How she grew up to be a beautiful young woman with an old soul. There was so much laughter, suspense, and love flowing thru this book. I think readers will really enjoy reading this book and I will definitely recommend it to others! Happy reading!
129 reviews4 followers
February 13, 2018
Absolutely Great

I knew that this was going to be one of the funniest, crazy and best in the Gems and Gents series. I cannot wait for Jade,s story. I have had this book in my kindle for months, I always enjoy your books so much that I hold on until I think you will release the next one. Keep the fingers on the keyboard beating out the good stuff.
Profile Image for Elise.
203 reviews5 followers
March 31, 2018
Didn't disappoint

Omg!!!
What can I say. I was not disappointed with this book. I've been waiting for this story and man o man was it good. JT I fell in love with JT in the book of Timothy. Not afraid to let Phire know about hers. And Phire well she is Phire. The both of them together is a nothing to mess with.
Can't wait for her other books.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews

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