What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet. -William Shakespeare Wilhelmina Briggs is a nobody. But Billy Briggs, the professional name she goes by, is a formidable opponent in the sports management world. As part of B and B Sports Management, she’s kept the line between business and pleasure from being crossed. Until a blond bombshell in Berlutis captures her attention and refuses to let go. And causes her to wonder if the potential hit to her professional reputation is worth the risk. Don’t judge a book by its cover because looks can be deceiving – Lester Fuller and Edwin Rolfe Jacoby Murdoch might look like the typical All-American man, but he’s not. After enduring a childhood few would have survived, he made his way to the pinnacle of his career. Having little knowledge of what unconditional love is, it’s not on his radar. Until he needs the allusive Billy Briggs and his partner to take his career to new heights. And he learns that he is a she and he can’t deny the attraction. No matter how much she tries to keep it professional. But fate sets out trials, and as Jacoby’s history is revealed he reaches new heights before his own arrogance and privilege threatens his relationships. While Jacoby is learning about the new parts of himself and his past, will it prevent him from securing the only woman he wants for his future?
This book is 800 pages & I read every single one of them because this author’s pen would not let me go. I’m so attached to the Orphans & their happily ever afters.
This is Black love story but it’s also about healing and self-discovery. There were suspenseful moments that had me on the edge of my seat. I wanted Mina to be protected and respected because she was a boss in her own right. It was great to see her progress with expressing herself & setting boundaries. I really don’t know where to start with Coby—he is so deserving of love & joy and his Mina.
If you read this book I recommend reading the whole series, the books are intertwined.
I've read this book countless times, and with each reread, I like it more and more. Initially, I read this one only because it was advised to read before The Catcher's Rye (Desperados book 1). So I decided why not. The characters and story are well written. It all has standard Dandridge style. There are good points and questions around race and even gender that's all incorporated into the romance.
#MysteriousGoldenRetrieverMMC So some wasn't my particular cup of tea, with the flow of some of the discussions and romance pacing, but knowing Jacoby's big reveal gave context to certain scenes that helped me comfortably read. Jacoby had a rough upbringing, which further adds to his complexity as a character. Dandridge effortlessly adds layers so we see his conflicts and sad traumatic past come to life. Through the pain, his motto, but also a call to his loneliness, yearning, and longing, which are mostly internal. But when the truth of his hertiage and DNA pops out, it all beautifully bridges into a whole slew of interesting conflicts but extends their journey.
The biggest gripe is the romance was a slow burn. Coby was a timid but strong MMC, well drawn character. I like quiet MMCs. As a me issue, the language of his differences and convos around his presented race is not my usual norm enjoyment, but Dandridge just kills it with her writing.
#strongFMC Billy, aka Mina, also has a lot of strong layers that make her character fully flushed out. For me, the constant, internal battle "but he's a white boy" mixed with "but he's a client and I must stay professional they cant catch me slipping" which added to her internal conflict dealing with masochism and being respected as a Black woman professional was the biggest hurdle. A lot of dialogue and 'splaining moments alongside the trepid approach to the romance due to professionalism dragged the pacing.
Another bummer, by the time we have our breakthrough, the romance was such a slow burn, so I wasn't as quenched by the relief their pairing, especially since they ran into some more roadblocks.
#MastiffinMaloniks #BossBae Billy is a nice FMC. She's strong but approachable. She's also knowledgeable in her craft and how she handles business. A few insecurities, but that makes her more real. None of that is a knock to her, but I cringed at the naming his dick Paul (get it...whitey white dude name) and etc. Those types of moments made me gloss over the "fun," kicking it humor moments she supplied. The author does banter so well.
#FoundFamily As a series hopper (I will pick and choose books to read according to my mood and tropes, not necessarily the order), after reading this story, I don’t personally feel I had to complete this to read The Catcher's Rye. Just with how I process narratives, it would have probably increased my comfortablity with Asylum if I flipped the order, but that's really personal. I think if I read The Catcher's Rye first and then went back to this one, the romance pacing wouldn't have felt as dragged as much.
Overall: The author is a great writer. Coby & Mina are considered a cornerstone couple. They have a very melodramatic love journey, but that's purely a personal problem and nothing against the beautiful writing. I kept reading because the external storyline with Bryan, Kelly, and Rookie kept me dialed in. Also wanted to see just how Jacoby would accepr love. Monroe had the best use of the miscommunication trope I've ever seen. It made sense for the characters, it fit for the overarching conflict, and it pushed the characters.
After reading the first orphan series I was looking forward to this book. And then I found out that the hero was not black (or is he, that’s something you will have to read to find out). Not that I’m against interracial books, but I love to read about black love.
But getting back to the story, i must say that I really did enjoy it and would definitely recommend this book. The author has really pulled me in such a way that I am looking forward to one clicking all of her upcoming releases.
Billy and Jacoby were such a contrast but similar. It was an unconventional flow to build the relationship between the two. That slow build made for maximum connection with these two characters. Heavy topics handled, with a keen bird's eye view into what it means to strike a balance as a professional black woman in America. How it feels to be orphaned and question your worth. This is just two themes covered in this well crafted love story. I enjoyed it and will be reading book 1 and 3.
My goodness! The story had so many complexities and levels, I was on the edge of my seat for most of this tale. Jacoby was unbelievable, and Mins was the image of grace. I still think Bryan has more issues than we saw in this story. Nice story....
When I say that this book has me all of my feelings! This book is a slow burn but not slow paced with the development of multiple storylines. The journey before during and after Jacoby and Wilhelmina get together is sweet and fiery! Jacoby knows who he wants as his woman and his reaction to his Mina will have you clutching your imaginary pearls and holding your breath. Wilhelmina is that chick, that boss… Who wants to be seen, heard, respected and loved. She definitely makes Jacoby work and he has no issues working to get her. What I love most about the story is not don’t need the journey to find that one, it’s also the interwoven storylines regarding racism, sexism, colorism and child abuse, just to name a few. The underlying story line that has run from the beginning of book one into this book, concerns the protection of black women by black men. I love the conversations between the sexes…between the friends…that sheds light on how complex each POV can be for any one event. I adore it book one and didn’t I think that book 2 could match it. But lo and behold, yeah I adored this one too for different reasons in a different way. Jacoby is officially in my top 20 book days. Jacoby and Wilhelmina have officially become one of my favorite couples. I can’t wait to to read more about the secondary characters and get updates. Great read.
4.5⭐️ I loved Billy and Jacoby. Jacoby? Definition of a man. They suited each other perfectly. Billy was stubborn sometimes but I loved her. I loved how the book explored the “strong black woman” theme that we go through in society. Also loved how it spoke about Jacoby’s complexion. I loved Jacoby so much😭 loved how he made his intentions known and waited for Billy (for the most part😂) Jacoby don’t play about Billy. Ever! I liked that Billy could be softer around Jacoby. What a great read!
Murda and Billy definitely drove home the old saying like”don’t judge a book by its cover “ and “looks can be deceiving”. This book is long, but soooo good. I was happy to see their journey and to get a glimpse at Ev and Nick. The only disappointing point for me was Bryan. He needed to be held accountable for his treatment of Billy. He was a little remorseful but I would have ended my friendship with him, especially since there was no redemption. That’s just my opinion. I’d definitely recommend this book and I’m looking forward to reading the next in this series.
I’m becoming a really big fan of the author. Love the chemistry humor and messages in her books. Some parts of this story were super frustrating, but overall I recommend. Ready for what’s next!
Another good story in The Orphan series. I could not put this book down. Jacoby was all that and then some. He and Nina went thru some ups and downs but they made it through the storm. It was also nice to catch up with the rest of the gang. This is a very good book you will not be disappointed.
There's so much I can say and so many feelings that I have about this book. The top one being I f****** love this book. When I tell you I did not expect What I was given but in the best way possible. Jacoby and Nina I like the couple it worked for me they were both too very strong-minded individu also Hurt and insecure people. I really liked howDandridge Monroe Shined a light on how black women go through there everyday lives. This book had me in my feelings and it had me bought the pop off at some instances. But I loved the found family aspect. I will say I don't like Bryan's a** and at this point I really just don't even care to hear him out. I can't wait to jump into the next book to see what actually happens toTrash people that are literally the trash of the garbage of the low of the low worse than a flea people. Honestly I would have been okay with some unalivings.
The second book from the Orphan series from Dandridge Monroe. We meet Wilamenia (Billy) and Jacoby. My white chocolate he was the sweetest soul. You have a strong FMC who has conquered everything on her own a successful career, loving friends but something was always missing and something from her past had troubled her as well. Our MMC was always labeled as a “white” in society but he always related with his Melanie’s brothers and sisters . We first hear his name in Fortunate but never knew what happened to him. As we follow these two in this story a lot is brought to life but we also are left with more questions which I’m sure we will learn as the series goes on. I loved watching these two fall in love and opening up to each other and being each others rock I can’t wait to see what else is prevailed as their story progresses and I hope my white chocolate finds his family.
Just wow!!! First of, Ev did redeem herself to in this book. But Jacoby, OMG. The levels of emotions i went thru while reading this one. When i say my heart cried for him. I think this was the saddest book ive ever read in my life. I didnt overlook the fact of how Nick bossed up. But now Bryan, wheeewwww chile he grated ever fiber of my nerves just like Ev did in the first book. I was really hoping that when it was all said and done, Billy branched off and started her own company. Because if his raggly a** would’ve listened in the first place, she wouldn’t have went thru that bs with Ladson. But he was too greedy for money and it costed her. Im finna dive off into Deception now 😁
This story is very intriguing and intricate, touching on many issues especially for Black women. I love the chemistry between Jacoby and Mina and how he claims her very early. I love the family slash friends that they have surrounded themselves with. However, I can't stand Bryan and I not sure how their partnership will work. I love Rye and Ev because they don't mince words. Mina and Coby are definitely what each other needs to overcome their past and to conquer their presence. They find home in each other.
I love reading about boss chicks and their navigation through the world. Billy was identifiable, and her plight was relatable. Jacoby tugged at your heart strings, and man's you want to reach out and hug him. The author did an excellent job of developing these characters. The pacing was just right, and I was able to connect with secondary characters just as much.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes sports romance stories or stories with a strong female character. I personally like the stories within the story; so many things happening, complex, just like real life. Though the focus was on building love between Jacoby/Gray and Mina/Billy, I appreciated the updates on Nick and Evie from book one of this series, as well as the introduction of new characters. Happy Reading!
This second installment had all the makings of a beautiful yet troublesome love story. As soon as they put their pride aside they were able to love out loud. I loved this story I laughed, got angry and was got the shock of my life with the twist and turns in this story. Dandridge is one of the most underrated writers of our time. Her pen is immaculate and for this to be her second book she had me immersed in her universe. I am a forever fan.
Well that was a twist I was not expecting with Coby being a brotha however the abandonment issues and feeling unworthy is something that anyone can resonant with. I can also understand why Mina felt like she had to hide behind her partner in a male dominant field. It's sad that this happens to many women who defy the norms. Overall great story
For him at least! Man, Coby loves him some Mina!!!! This installment of the orphan series was just as good as the first!! I love the way the characters engage and that we get updates from others. The way she intertwines her series is everything!! Coby and Mina were a dope couple and I was happy to see their journey play out. Must read.
I had to read this book before I dove into another on of DM’s books in the Desperado series and I must stay that it was pretty good. A bit long and some things included in the story but not necessary and others left out that were necessary. The book really got interesting in the end.
This was a well written very long addition to the series. I guess the length was necessary though. Surprisingly there is still so much to be explained. I’m gonna try to finish this series. I need so answers.
I'm really enjoying this series and this Author! Jacoby and Mina were a slow that turned into a raging fire! The characters had their demons but we're still striving to be the best...great story!
All I can really say is wow!! This book was AMAZING!!!! It tugged at my heart strings! Had me ready to go to war! And simply kept me on my toes!!! I CANNOT WAIT TO READ THE NEXT BOOK!!
I loved this book so much . The story was so compelling and I had a good time . Them unpacking their respective childhood traumas was really beautiful to see . I also appreciated the different conversations about racial dynamics within their relationship.
Excellent book. This book dealt with all the modern day issues. Race,discrimination, abuse of a child,discrediting women. Jocoby and Billy were made to love each other. Thanks for making such a great story.
Billy was a bad a** agent. She got the job done. Jacoby fell for her before he even knew who she was. I don't like Bryan. He was wrong for what he did. I love seeing Billy and Jacoby fall in love. Very good book.
Jacoby and Mina was pure it was not easy.Jacoby never gave up on making sure that Mina felt loved and protected. This book shows you what happens when you let your guard down and let love in.
Billy almost got on my last nerve ! I hate Bryan ! I hate the secretary trick too ! Jacoby is bae and I don’t even like light skin men lol. I’ve owned this series for quite some time and I’m just now getting around to reading it… I need my ass whooped for waiting so long.