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In the Heart of a Valentine #5
With Your Permission
It was their first encounter that landed them in newfound territory.
Up and coming wedding planner Bri St. James is in the height of her career. As the CEO of Building Bridges LLC, Bri is driven by determination for success, and each day makes for new opportunities abound. However, while planning the wedding of one of Chicago’s hottest couples, Bri’s focus is shifted when the strum of a nocturnal voice captures her attention. Being an empath has empowered her sense of compassion for others, so she’s not only drawn to him because of his broken heart but also from a fierce attraction that sparks her interest and tap dances on a groove on her heart. Getting involved with someone who’s not open to love may prove to be the most difficult road Bri has ever journeyed, but she’s unable to stop herself from falling into an irresistible tango of love.
World-renowned photographer Raphael Valentine hasn’t been in the public eye since the tragic death of his fiancée four years prior. To date, his time is spent helping his charity of choice—educating the community about the dangers of driving while intoxicated. For him, love is a thing of the past until meeting Bri St. James at his brother’s rehearsal dinner made Raphael question what he’d always believed to be true. There was no explanation for the riot of pulsing sensations that ripped through his core when his eyes met hers. The unquenchable heat that followed stirred his soul, sending his heart on a quest he himself hadn’t agreed to venture on. As a friendship between the two flourishes, and they're cloaked in a dynamic surge of desire, Raphael is met with the ultimate challenge: surrender to a second chance at love or abandon his happily ever after for a lifetime.
Up and coming wedding planner Bri St. James is in the height of her career. As the CEO of Building Bridges LLC, Bri is driven by determination for success, and each day makes for new opportunities abound. However, while planning the wedding of one of Chicago’s hottest couples, Bri’s focus is shifted when the strum of a nocturnal voice captures her attention. Being an empath has empowered her sense of compassion for others, so she’s not only drawn to him because of his broken heart but also from a fierce attraction that sparks her interest and tap dances on a groove on her heart. Getting involved with someone who’s not open to love may prove to be the most difficult road Bri has ever journeyed, but she’s unable to stop herself from falling into an irresistible tango of love.
World-renowned photographer Raphael Valentine hasn’t been in the public eye since the tragic death of his fiancée four years prior. To date, his time is spent helping his charity of choice—educating the community about the dangers of driving while intoxicated. For him, love is a thing of the past until meeting Bri St. James at his brother’s rehearsal dinner made Raphael question what he’d always believed to be true. There was no explanation for the riot of pulsing sensations that ripped through his core when his eyes met hers. The unquenchable heat that followed stirred his soul, sending his heart on a quest he himself hadn’t agreed to venture on. As a friendship between the two flourishes, and they're cloaked in a dynamic surge of desire, Raphael is met with the ultimate challenge: surrender to a second chance at love or abandon his happily ever after for a lifetime.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 9, 2019
702 people are currently reading
400 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Nicole Norris
104 books1,224 followersStephanie Nicole Norris is an author from Tennessee with a humble beginning. After becoming a young adult, her love for romance sparked, leaving her captivated by heroes and heroines alike. With a big imagination and a creative heart, Stephanie penned her first novel in 2010. She went on to write grin-inducing romance and has received multiple literary awards.
As a prolific writer, Stephanie’s catalog continues to grow. Her books can be found at major retailers, including Amazon, and her website, www.stephanienicolenorris.com.
As a prolific writer, Stephanie’s catalog continues to grow. Her books can be found at major retailers, including Amazon, and her website, www.stephanienicolenorris.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 315 reviews
January 30, 2020
Raphael is just LLLLLLLLAAAAAAAAWWWWWWWDDDDDDDD!!!!!!! Damn! Damn! Damn!!!! This Man Made Me Lose My Breath!!!
Raphael and Bri, met at his brother's and her best friend's wedding. Bri was the Wedding Coordinator and Raphael just came out of being missing from the spotlight. As an award winning Photographer, Raphael has been off the grid for years, nobody knew where he was except for his family. Raphael's fiance died in a car crash by a driver who was going the wrong way. Raphael survived but blamed himself and battled with survivor's guilt.
Bri was focused on building her wedding business into the best thing, so she had no time for men who weren't serious and only looking for one thing or pretending that they wanted to be in it for the long run. So when Bri ran into Raphael, she felt his spirit was all over the place and doing what naturally comes to her, she hugged him, really hugged him. It wasn't sexual, it was being that person who can come along to comfort you. Raphael never forgot that and in running into Bri again he wanted to explore it.
Raphael and Bri go on a ride that is both incredible and vulnerable, these two souls who didn't know anything about the other will find out that oftentimes love is not always obvious, and sometimes the road to love will catch even the most astute by surprise.
I think Raphael and Bri's story is my favorite, although I haven't read De'Andre Valentine's story yet (In Pursuit of You (In The Heart of A Valentine Book 6) which I will soon. Their story is just so beautiful.
Well Until My Next Review...Ciao!
Raphael and Bri, met at his brother's and her best friend's wedding. Bri was the Wedding Coordinator and Raphael just came out of being missing from the spotlight. As an award winning Photographer, Raphael has been off the grid for years, nobody knew where he was except for his family. Raphael's fiance died in a car crash by a driver who was going the wrong way. Raphael survived but blamed himself and battled with survivor's guilt.
Bri was focused on building her wedding business into the best thing, so she had no time for men who weren't serious and only looking for one thing or pretending that they wanted to be in it for the long run. So when Bri ran into Raphael, she felt his spirit was all over the place and doing what naturally comes to her, she hugged him, really hugged him. It wasn't sexual, it was being that person who can come along to comfort you. Raphael never forgot that and in running into Bri again he wanted to explore it.
Raphael and Bri go on a ride that is both incredible and vulnerable, these two souls who didn't know anything about the other will find out that oftentimes love is not always obvious, and sometimes the road to love will catch even the most astute by surprise.
I think Raphael and Bri's story is my favorite, although I haven't read De'Andre Valentine's story yet (In Pursuit of You (In The Heart of A Valentine Book 6) which I will soon. Their story is just so beautiful.
Well Until My Next Review...Ciao!
July 15, 2020
This is book 5 of In The Heart of a Valentine series but can be read as a standalone. I picked this one up and read it in a day! It's absolutely sexy and emotional and I fell in love with the author's fast paced writing style. Raphael Valentine is one of a septuplet! He and his brothers are strong, sexy, successful men and this series follows them and the women they fall in love with.
Raphael is a broken hero who lost his fiancee in a car accident and has not been interested in any woman until Bri comes along. I don't know why I love these heroes who have these tragic pasts but I JUST DO! Their vulnerability just makes them so much more sexier. The added bonus of him speaking french in and outside of the bedroom made him even hotter.This book brought the steam with the breaking of head boards to prove it!
Bri and Raphael connect on so many levels- emotionally, sexually and even spiritually. There was so much passion as they both went on a journey of healing as individuals and falling in love with each other. I absolutely loved it!
Raphael is a broken hero who lost his fiancee in a car accident and has not been interested in any woman until Bri comes along. I don't know why I love these heroes who have these tragic pasts but I JUST DO! Their vulnerability just makes them so much more sexier. The added bonus of him speaking french in and outside of the bedroom made him even hotter.This book brought the steam with the breaking of head boards to prove it!
Bri and Raphael connect on so many levels- emotionally, sexually and even spiritually. There was so much passion as they both went on a journey of healing as individuals and falling in love with each other. I absolutely loved it!
March 31, 2022
2.5🌟
isn't not book it is me
isn't not book it is me
April 8, 2022
Did Raphael “Edward Cullen” that headboard?!? Whew Chile! 🥵🤣 Raphael and Bri’s story is definitely one of my top favorites of the Valentine clan. I love it when there is no back and forth chase and they both have no problem admitting what they want in the other person. Raphael was dealing with past trauma and the weight of that guilt associated with the trauma was definitely taking a toll on him. It was such a heartbreaking story. I’m so happy that Bri and Raphael found true love in each other. The story flowed really well and it was enjoyable just like the others. I’m really enjoying all the black love and black excellence on display in these books!
April 21, 2025
“To the reader who is unsure about love. Never give up. All things happen in due time.”
Raphael Valentine & Brittany St. James ❤️🫶🏾🥰🥰!
“This life is temporary, and we should cherish our loved ones every moment we have with them here.”
Raphael Valentine & Brittany St. James ❤️🫶🏾🥰🥰!
“This life is temporary, and we should cherish our loved ones every moment we have with them here.”
April 20, 2023
Love after loss. This was a great story. Happy reading!
February 16, 2019
“Everything happens for a reason. Nothing is coincidental, and every step we take is in the blueprint given to us by the Creator. “– Raphael Valentine
Raphael is my favorite Valentine. Sorry, Hunter.
We met Raphael in Give Me A Reason, and I was immediately intrigued. There was something almost hypnotizing about him that we briefly saw. I instantly wanted to know more and was excited to see that his story was coming out this month.
Raphael is a protective and caring soul with a substantial amount of pain. He lost his fiance four years ago, right before their wedding day, in a car accident. He is still, in a lot of ways, coming to terms with her death and ridding himself of self-imposed guilt. He was devastated after her passing and retreated from the spotlight and cut himself off from the world for a long time. He doesn’t have plans to love again, a part of him doesn’t even think he can. Why does he get to move on and be happy when his fiance doesn’t?
Bri St. James enters Raphael’s life at his brother’s wedding and turns his emotions on its head. She’s an empath, deeply in tune with the feelings of others and Raphael is no exception. She sees the pain and fear simmering beneath his hard exterior and she wants to help; first as a friend but then as much more.
In the grand scheme of things, these two didn’t necessarily have a hard time getting together. While Raphael was understandably hesitant, he didn’t stay that way for long and he acknowledged his feelings for Bri and did what he needed to do to be able to move on with her. Like the previous books in this series, With Your Permission was definitely instalove.
I liked the added tale of Bri’s business woes with her partner and the introduction of a new character on her side of the family that may pop up soo.
With Your Permission is a heartwarming story with sizzling chemistry (SIZZLING!!!) about finding love after loss, moving past tragedy and allowing yourself to live.
Raphael is my favorite Valentine. Sorry, Hunter.
We met Raphael in Give Me A Reason, and I was immediately intrigued. There was something almost hypnotizing about him that we briefly saw. I instantly wanted to know more and was excited to see that his story was coming out this month.
Raphael is a protective and caring soul with a substantial amount of pain. He lost his fiance four years ago, right before their wedding day, in a car accident. He is still, in a lot of ways, coming to terms with her death and ridding himself of self-imposed guilt. He was devastated after her passing and retreated from the spotlight and cut himself off from the world for a long time. He doesn’t have plans to love again, a part of him doesn’t even think he can. Why does he get to move on and be happy when his fiance doesn’t?
Bri St. James enters Raphael’s life at his brother’s wedding and turns his emotions on its head. She’s an empath, deeply in tune with the feelings of others and Raphael is no exception. She sees the pain and fear simmering beneath his hard exterior and she wants to help; first as a friend but then as much more.
In the grand scheme of things, these two didn’t necessarily have a hard time getting together. While Raphael was understandably hesitant, he didn’t stay that way for long and he acknowledged his feelings for Bri and did what he needed to do to be able to move on with her. Like the previous books in this series, With Your Permission was definitely instalove.
I liked the added tale of Bri’s business woes with her partner and the introduction of a new character on her side of the family that may pop up soo.
With Your Permission is a heartwarming story with sizzling chemistry (SIZZLING!!!) about finding love after loss, moving past tragedy and allowing yourself to live.
August 14, 2020
I’ve been on a roll with SNN. This is my first series by her so I skipped book 4 because it was really like a 3.5 that included characters from a previous series. I haven’t read that series and I am funny like that. I have to read that series before I can read number 4. Anyway, this one was 5 of course and it picks up with the next Valentine brother- Raphael.
Listen and listen good. This is not for the faint of heart when it comes to eroticism. For the kind of author that SNN has been in this series (since I can’t judge her past work), this is the raciest one yet. Have I read more erotic? Yes, but when you get into this series and the type of topics SNN takes on, this one was a bit more intense. I don’t go looking for erotic romance. In fact, I only have a few authors that I read in that genre. I don’t add to it because it’s not my thing.
Raphael has a deep story and is dealing with the loss of his fiancé’ but in walks Bre Saint James. She is also dealing with an issue and together they help deliver one another. It’s a pretty intense chemistry. Even though I didn’t feel the “love” until much later in the novel the chemistry they had was blazing. The topic is more substantial than I’ve seen from Norris. She completely writes this differently than the other novels in the series and I like when authors switch it up.
I like that there is more substance to this story, however if I’m being completely honest the one drawback I have is with Bre. Her issue to me seems contrived. How Phillip fit into that was sort of creepy on her part to me, and realistically I would think if Bre was that delusional she would need therapy or something.
It seems like Allison should’ve made a final appearance in this one and also I missed Camilla and the other ladies as well, but their absence was understandable.
I gave this a 5 off the strength of the writer’s growth and her idea to switch up the structure of this one. This is the best one so far. Let’s see what 6 is looking like.
Listen and listen good. This is not for the faint of heart when it comes to eroticism. For the kind of author that SNN has been in this series (since I can’t judge her past work), this is the raciest one yet. Have I read more erotic? Yes, but when you get into this series and the type of topics SNN takes on, this one was a bit more intense. I don’t go looking for erotic romance. In fact, I only have a few authors that I read in that genre. I don’t add to it because it’s not my thing.
Raphael has a deep story and is dealing with the loss of his fiancé’ but in walks Bre Saint James. She is also dealing with an issue and together they help deliver one another. It’s a pretty intense chemistry. Even though I didn’t feel the “love” until much later in the novel the chemistry they had was blazing. The topic is more substantial than I’ve seen from Norris. She completely writes this differently than the other novels in the series and I like when authors switch it up.
I like that there is more substance to this story, however if I’m being completely honest the one drawback I have is with Bre. Her issue to me seems contrived. How Phillip fit into that was sort of creepy on her part to me, and realistically I would think if Bre was that delusional she would need therapy or something.
It seems like Allison should’ve made a final appearance in this one and also I missed Camilla and the other ladies as well, but their absence was understandable.
I gave this a 5 off the strength of the writer’s growth and her idea to switch up the structure of this one. This is the best one so far. Let’s see what 6 is looking like.
October 27, 2023
I think this has been my fav book out of the entire series!!!!! Raphael and Bri’s story was just amazing! The way he broke the headboard though 😂😂! Naw but the way he went to Phillip’s house at 2am and beat his ass 🙌🏽🙌🏽😂😂!
June 23, 2020
This was my first Stephanie Nicole Norris book. I read it for a book talk we're doing in my reader's group in August, and I'm so very happy that I did. Bri and Raphael are absolutely swoon worthy! Both of them! Incredibly strong, resilient people (which I adore), finding their way to each other. And the scene where they break something... I won't spoil it... but oh holy, smokes!
I can't wait to have our book talk.
Valentine men, here I come for the rest of you!
I can't wait to have our book talk.
Valentine men, here I come for the rest of you!
October 28, 2019
Yessss to Raphael
I absolutely loved every word in this book. Bri and Raphael were so cute together, and they overcame so much. Excellent read and I definitely would recommend it.
I absolutely loved every word in this book. Bri and Raphael were so cute together, and they overcame so much. Excellent read and I definitely would recommend it.
February 21, 2022
Love this series!
The Roses are still my favs but I am so loving this series. I think Raphael is my favorite Valentine. The purity of his heart is beautiful. Bri is perfect for him because her heart is just as pure.
The Roses are still my favs but I am so loving this series. I think Raphael is my favorite Valentine. The purity of his heart is beautiful. Bri is perfect for him because her heart is just as pure.
March 20, 2024
4.5⭐️
I think this just might be my favorite book so far. Love after loss is a story I’m gonna eat up every single time!
I think this just might be my favorite book so far. Love after loss is a story I’m gonna eat up every single time!
March 21, 2021
Beautiful By Design (BBD) selected a sequel theme for this book cycle. BBD is reading “In the Heart of a Valentine”, a 9-part series by author Stephanie Nicole Norris. We took an aggressive leap and decided to read both Book 4 and 5 this time. The fourth book in the series titled, Game Changing Christmas received 3.875 out of a 5-star rating by BBD. For the fifth book in the series titled, With Your Permission, received 4.75 out of a 5-star rating. For rating purposes on Goodreads, there will be two separate entries with a duplicative review. If you are on Goodreads, please feel free to read the reviews for Books 1 through 3.
Many thanks to Rewa for being the virtual host and navigating us through our discussions for both books. Kudos for providing probing questions to open up great conversation! While the world is slowly opening back up, BBD is still travelling through the virtual world of book club. And, we want to continue to give thanks to Skype for providing that virtual platform for us to come together. As always, BBD will keep it moving!
Book 4: Game Changing Christmas
This book was well written and a breath of fresh air from the typical pattern of the previous books in the series. It continues to be an overall easy and quick read with some of us finishing the book in one day. We unanimously agreed as short as the book was, it was slightly overwhelming with so many newly added characters to memorize. We can appreciate the intentions of the author introducing the Rose brothers into the storyline. Some of BBD felt this book could have been eliminated because the Rose family was introduced in an earlier book, but others believe if that was done, it would have been confusing to introduce, create the drama, and resolve the years long feud. It was interwoven very well into the story and provided BBD with a small, but intimate taste of what the Rose series contain. It also shed light into why the Valentine and Rose families were feuding for so many years. It is our opinion the underlying message of Book 4 highlights the importance of communication and the result of too much testosterone. A decade of an age-old feud could have been resolved by a simple conversation perhaps. This book also introduced the blossoming relationship between Bri and Raphael which is definitely not the same pattern as the previous books. Because our series is about the Valentine Brothers, I won’t delve into the details about the Rose’s. We could not wait to see what happens between Bri and Raphael in Book 5.
Book 5: With Your Permission
This book was about grief, forgiveness, and closure and took us through all of the stages the character went through to find happiness. This book went outside the norm from Books 1-3. We agreed wholeheartedly this was the best storyline in the series thus far even though we picked Philip to be the target of the drama. The development of the characters and their relationships were really well done. Although, Bri was confident of her worth as a woman in comparison to the wealthy Valentines, she had some work to do regarding her self-love. When it came to life, she had the capability to fix everything for everyone else, but could not fix herself. Hmm…maybe that’s a woman (period!). We are always readily available and giving for everyone in our lives albeit family, friends, work, but rarely stop to take care of self. There was an equal balance between the development of Bri and Raphael’s characters, the plot, and the amazing, thunder-wrenching sex scenes. The author broke up the repetitious pattern of the other books. BBD is back to being fully vested in finishing out the love stories. In one of my reviews, we were hopeful that the author would develop and/or closeout characters mentioned in the books to provide clarity on their relevance to the story as well as their relationship to the Valentines. She succeeded in doing so with Dean by adding a postscript at the end. Thank you!
In a previous review, BBD felt this series could have been one book and just longer in length to cover all the Hearts of the Valentines. Now, I am thinking it would have been a lot to keep up with from the introduction of all the different characters to the different lives each of them had. In doing so would probably make these quick reads a huge feat and not sure how attractive a 400-500 page book would have been to BBD to want to read.
Lastly, there were still some grammatical errors in both books, but did not detract from the story. However, I do want to mention, the mistakes stood out a little more in Book 4. As always, we wanted to disclose this information for transparency. See you soon for Book 6 In Pursuit of You!
Many thanks to Rewa for being the virtual host and navigating us through our discussions for both books. Kudos for providing probing questions to open up great conversation! While the world is slowly opening back up, BBD is still travelling through the virtual world of book club. And, we want to continue to give thanks to Skype for providing that virtual platform for us to come together. As always, BBD will keep it moving!
Book 4: Game Changing Christmas
This book was well written and a breath of fresh air from the typical pattern of the previous books in the series. It continues to be an overall easy and quick read with some of us finishing the book in one day. We unanimously agreed as short as the book was, it was slightly overwhelming with so many newly added characters to memorize. We can appreciate the intentions of the author introducing the Rose brothers into the storyline. Some of BBD felt this book could have been eliminated because the Rose family was introduced in an earlier book, but others believe if that was done, it would have been confusing to introduce, create the drama, and resolve the years long feud. It was interwoven very well into the story and provided BBD with a small, but intimate taste of what the Rose series contain. It also shed light into why the Valentine and Rose families were feuding for so many years. It is our opinion the underlying message of Book 4 highlights the importance of communication and the result of too much testosterone. A decade of an age-old feud could have been resolved by a simple conversation perhaps. This book also introduced the blossoming relationship between Bri and Raphael which is definitely not the same pattern as the previous books. Because our series is about the Valentine Brothers, I won’t delve into the details about the Rose’s. We could not wait to see what happens between Bri and Raphael in Book 5.
Book 5: With Your Permission
This book was about grief, forgiveness, and closure and took us through all of the stages the character went through to find happiness. This book went outside the norm from Books 1-3. We agreed wholeheartedly this was the best storyline in the series thus far even though we picked Philip to be the target of the drama. The development of the characters and their relationships were really well done. Although, Bri was confident of her worth as a woman in comparison to the wealthy Valentines, she had some work to do regarding her self-love. When it came to life, she had the capability to fix everything for everyone else, but could not fix herself. Hmm…maybe that’s a woman (period!). We are always readily available and giving for everyone in our lives albeit family, friends, work, but rarely stop to take care of self. There was an equal balance between the development of Bri and Raphael’s characters, the plot, and the amazing, thunder-wrenching sex scenes. The author broke up the repetitious pattern of the other books. BBD is back to being fully vested in finishing out the love stories. In one of my reviews, we were hopeful that the author would develop and/or closeout characters mentioned in the books to provide clarity on their relevance to the story as well as their relationship to the Valentines. She succeeded in doing so with Dean by adding a postscript at the end. Thank you!
In a previous review, BBD felt this series could have been one book and just longer in length to cover all the Hearts of the Valentines. Now, I am thinking it would have been a lot to keep up with from the introduction of all the different characters to the different lives each of them had. In doing so would probably make these quick reads a huge feat and not sure how attractive a 400-500 page book would have been to BBD to want to read.
Lastly, there were still some grammatical errors in both books, but did not detract from the story. However, I do want to mention, the mistakes stood out a little more in Book 4. As always, we wanted to disclose this information for transparency. See you soon for Book 6 In Pursuit of You!
February 13, 2019
Freed by love!
Wow! Bri and Raphael's story was so emotional! They had an instant attraction that grew into true love! I loved how he was a protector and only wanted the best for her even to the point of thinking he was no good for her because of what happened 4 years before! I loved how she was so giving and caring, only seeing The good in people and willing to forgive their shortcomings! The romance was electrifying, the love making was off the charts. That headboard whew!!! I really enjoyed how he dealt with the IRS situation and Phillip who was clearly warped in the head. I loved the appearance of DeAndre and I anticipate a good story for him in the future along with the rest of the Valentine clan! Dean's story will be lit I'm sure! Stephanie you have brought to life these characters with every story! I feel like I know them personally and I look forward to many more great romance novels in the future from you. You are truly one of my favorite authors and I am glad I stumbled upon you in my Kindle Unlimited library. Thank you!
Wow! Bri and Raphael's story was so emotional! They had an instant attraction that grew into true love! I loved how he was a protector and only wanted the best for her even to the point of thinking he was no good for her because of what happened 4 years before! I loved how she was so giving and caring, only seeing The good in people and willing to forgive their shortcomings! The romance was electrifying, the love making was off the charts. That headboard whew!!! I really enjoyed how he dealt with the IRS situation and Phillip who was clearly warped in the head. I loved the appearance of DeAndre and I anticipate a good story for him in the future along with the rest of the Valentine clan! Dean's story will be lit I'm sure! Stephanie you have brought to life these characters with every story! I feel like I know them personally and I look forward to many more great romance novels in the future from you. You are truly one of my favorite authors and I am glad I stumbled upon you in my Kindle Unlimited library. Thank you!
July 25, 2020
Sweet! Sassy! Suspenseful!
Totally shocked by Phillip's response when Bri demanded full restitution for his financial dishonesty. So glad that Raphael let Phil know what had to happen if Phil wanted to continue to live. Raphael put a well deserved "hurting" on him. lol !!!!
The chemistry, the love, the respect between Bri and Raphael is the type of relationship we all dream of. And their family and friends , Valentine Day celebration was out of this world!
(Would have been 5**** stars if not for the lack of editing errors!)
Totally shocked by Phillip's response when Bri demanded full restitution for his financial dishonesty. So glad that Raphael let Phil know what had to happen if Phil wanted to continue to live. Raphael put a well deserved "hurting" on him. lol !!!!
The chemistry, the love, the respect between Bri and Raphael is the type of relationship we all dream of. And their family and friends , Valentine Day celebration was out of this world!
(Would have been 5**** stars if not for the lack of editing errors!)
August 8, 2020
These Valentine Men are no joke, when they love they love hard. Raphael Valentine is a broken man, who isn’t living he is just existing until he meets Bri St.James, a wedding planner , a good listener and soon to be his missing piece.
I love the fact that even though these are romance story the author is still teaching and showing us awareness to various topics going on in the world. Great job I really enjoyed their story.
I love the fact that even though these are romance story the author is still teaching and showing us awareness to various topics going on in the world. Great job I really enjoyed their story.
July 15, 2024
I just finished the audiobook and I really liked Bri and Raphael. I was happy that Raphael got a second chance at love especially with the loss of his fiancee. I feel like Bri was so good for him and I was rooting from them throughout the book. I hate the fact that Bri ex friend took advantage of her with the business and I love the fact that Raphael was not playing about her. This was such a cute read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2019
Raphael and Bri
These two were probably my favorite couple. Raphael was in such a dark place when he lost his fiancee. Bri had the right temperament to be in his life and help him work through his issues. Her business partner/friend was shady, Bri dropped the ball with him but her heart was in the right place.
These two were probably my favorite couple. Raphael was in such a dark place when he lost his fiancee. Bri had the right temperament to be in his life and help him work through his issues. Her business partner/friend was shady, Bri dropped the ball with him but her heart was in the right place.
February 12, 2019
Fantastic Book
I enjoyed reading this book! Whew I love Raphael and Bri story! Their chemistry was off the charts! I couldn't put my kindle down! I'm going to read it again! Such an awesome book!
I enjoyed reading this book! Whew I love Raphael and Bri story! Their chemistry was off the charts! I couldn't put my kindle down! I'm going to read it again! Such an awesome book!
January 1, 2024
This is my favorite book of the series so far. Raphael NEEDED love. He needed permission (from himself), to completely let go of the burden of guilt he was forcing himself to carry around year after year. I liked how patient Bri was with him. I think the most important part of this story is that Raphael never tried to make Bri his therapist. He sought professional help and didn't rush his healing process. This is a beautiful story.
May 30, 2024
Raphael Valentine's story.. just lovely
I think Raphael and Bri's story is short, sweet, full of smut and a lot of passion. This whole series of love stories has been great. Each brother has his own intriguing story to tell...and I'm here for it.
I think Raphael and Bri's story is short, sweet, full of smut and a lot of passion. This whole series of love stories has been great. Each brother has his own intriguing story to tell...and I'm here for it.
November 27, 2019
With Your Permission
Phil was a jerk. Raphael is such a sweetheart. He deserved all the Love and happiness that Bri bought him. I can't wait to read about her brother
Phil was a jerk. Raphael is such a sweetheart. He deserved all the Love and happiness that Bri bought him. I can't wait to read about her brother
December 27, 2019
OMG! This man is so sexy, and he speaks French! So handsome, so strong, so manly yet so delicate.I believe Raphael is my favorite Valentine of them all!
November 5, 2023
And let my tears falls. This was the most emotional book of the series. Rafael 🔥🔥🔥🔥. Those love scenes, breaking headboards, hot damn😳
April 26, 2024
There is a headboard that does not survive.
February 16, 2019
Another Winner!!!
Every time I think that I have a favorite Valentine brother, you come along and mess up my whole life. Bravo, Stephanie Nicole Norris. You knocked another one out the park. I felt every moment of Bri and Raphael’s journey. I anticipate the next installment.
Every time I think that I have a favorite Valentine brother, you come along and mess up my whole life. Bravo, Stephanie Nicole Norris. You knocked another one out the park. I felt every moment of Bri and Raphael’s journey. I anticipate the next installment.
March 19, 2022
Hands down he is my favorite brother. Raph gave me chills and I fell for him
😭😭😭 Great book! Best brother of the series
😭😭😭 Great book! Best brother of the series
April 20, 2020
I liked this a lot. Again like with the other books in this series, there are small things that make it a little less than perfect. That said, this author writes incredibly charming, droolsome heroes and heroines that are so eminently readable.
The premise of this is that Raphael (one of the Valentine septuplet brothers) lost his fiancée days to his wedding a few years ago. Devastated since then, he’s been closed off until he meets Bri St. James, his brother’s wedding planner, and the comfort she offers him, a stranger, unlocks something in his heart. However, there’s a rival for Bri’s affection and with both Raphael and Bri carrying emotional scars, it brings into question whether they’re healed enough for a successful relationship.
I like this author’s books for the depth they bring seemingly out of left field. Going into this, it seems like Raphael is the only one with healing to do but the author works this so that both characters experience some personal growth. I wish the author had done more with the conflict with Phillip, Bri’s business parter, I feel like that had so much potential and was underutilized. And it also just didn’t seem plausible that Bri would have not prioritized that being a successful businesswoman. However, the issue was resolved acceptably. It just felt like a throwaway. Also weird to me, was the mystery of Bri’s brother’s whereabouts and the fact that only she seemed concerned that he had apparently disappeared and her loving parents were just coolly living their lives blessed and unbothered about their son’s whereabouts. Strange.
Some might say that the books in this series are exceedingly similar and yes that is kind of true however, there are slight nuances that make them different and if you’re a fan of black love and black romance, you might not mind that the books follow a similar prototype, I don’t, personally and even though the brothers and the heroines are all very similar in personality, their stories are all a little bit different. One thing that is similar across all books that I find a little weird is that there’s this weird flex in every book where one character will have a moment to brag about their fitness regimen and how physically fit they are. It’s not offensive, it’s just weird and strangely motivating to me to get more fit. Another weird thing in this book to me, is the French. Raphael is characterized as an American who speaks fluent French but the French in the book, to my hearing is not very correct. Yes, it is entirely possible that he’s speaking a dialect of French that isn’t standard and that I don’t know, but for example it’s odd to me that in bed together being friends and lovers, he’s still vouvoyer-ing her (using the formal form of the pronoun “you” as if she’s the neighbour’s grandmother he met for the first time). Some of it also sounded a bit awkward in tense, phrasing and syntax. And it’s weird to me because it wasn’t necessary to have quite so much French if it wasn’t going to be right. I would have believed he spoke French with the occasional “je t’aime” and “mon amour” or “chérie,” and “bébé” and “mon ange” et whatever else. That said, I loved the idea of it and of Raphael teaching Bri French and that bringing them closer. Still madly into this series and likely to check out the Rose series when I’m done because these books ARE entertaining even with the odd niggles.
The premise of this is that Raphael (one of the Valentine septuplet brothers) lost his fiancée days to his wedding a few years ago. Devastated since then, he’s been closed off until he meets Bri St. James, his brother’s wedding planner, and the comfort she offers him, a stranger, unlocks something in his heart. However, there’s a rival for Bri’s affection and with both Raphael and Bri carrying emotional scars, it brings into question whether they’re healed enough for a successful relationship.
I like this author’s books for the depth they bring seemingly out of left field. Going into this, it seems like Raphael is the only one with healing to do but the author works this so that both characters experience some personal growth. I wish the author had done more with the conflict with Phillip, Bri’s business parter, I feel like that had so much potential and was underutilized. And it also just didn’t seem plausible that Bri would have not prioritized that being a successful businesswoman. However, the issue was resolved acceptably. It just felt like a throwaway. Also weird to me, was the mystery of Bri’s brother’s whereabouts and the fact that only she seemed concerned that he had apparently disappeared and her loving parents were just coolly living their lives blessed and unbothered about their son’s whereabouts. Strange.
Some might say that the books in this series are exceedingly similar and yes that is kind of true however, there are slight nuances that make them different and if you’re a fan of black love and black romance, you might not mind that the books follow a similar prototype, I don’t, personally and even though the brothers and the heroines are all very similar in personality, their stories are all a little bit different. One thing that is similar across all books that I find a little weird is that there’s this weird flex in every book where one character will have a moment to brag about their fitness regimen and how physically fit they are. It’s not offensive, it’s just weird and strangely motivating to me to get more fit. Another weird thing in this book to me, is the French. Raphael is characterized as an American who speaks fluent French but the French in the book, to my hearing is not very correct. Yes, it is entirely possible that he’s speaking a dialect of French that isn’t standard and that I don’t know, but for example it’s odd to me that in bed together being friends and lovers, he’s still vouvoyer-ing her (using the formal form of the pronoun “you” as if she’s the neighbour’s grandmother he met for the first time). Some of it also sounded a bit awkward in tense, phrasing and syntax. And it’s weird to me because it wasn’t necessary to have quite so much French if it wasn’t going to be right. I would have believed he spoke French with the occasional “je t’aime” and “mon amour” or “chérie,” and “bébé” and “mon ange” et whatever else. That said, I loved the idea of it and of Raphael teaching Bri French and that bringing them closer. Still madly into this series and likely to check out the Rose series when I’m done because these books ARE entertaining even with the odd niggles.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 3, 2021
Headboard Breakingly Good!!!
Yooooo, what in the greatness did I just read. Honey, I need a cold shower after that first Steamy love making scene. Other than that, I thought the way Bri St. James was able to be just what Raphael Valentine needed to heal, forgive and move forward, was so beautiful. I wasn't ready for all this book gave, yet I'm so glad I indulged in it. This was great. I am loving this series. On to Book 6.
Yooooo, what in the greatness did I just read. Honey, I need a cold shower after that first Steamy love making scene. Other than that, I thought the way Bri St. James was able to be just what Raphael Valentine needed to heal, forgive and move forward, was so beautiful. I wasn't ready for all this book gave, yet I'm so glad I indulged in it. This was great. I am loving this series. On to Book 6.
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