To All the Thugs I Loved That Didn't Love Me Back

by Jahquel J.

Bless has always held his younger brothers down, even when one catches a drug charge and is sentenced to five years in prison. Bless continued to put his feet to the ground and build their empire in his brother’s absence. Bless had love once upon a time ago, and it was snatched away from him. He didn’t think he would find another like Shai... that is until Ace Saffrino comes waltzing into his life. When a video goes viral of Polite rapping in prison, every record label and manager in New York is beating down his door to sign him. At the visiting table with Bless, he makes his older brother promise to get out the game and use their money for good. Five years later, Polite is out of prison and ready for change. The same streets he used to run; he doesn’t feel the same excitement for. He’s also the co-owner of Raw Records, one of the hottest record labels in New York. Ace Saffrino is a blogger from Brooklyn. She started her celebrity blog, Aced, while pregnant with her daughter. With her daughter and a celebrity tattoo baby father that she’s madly in love with, she has her hands full. Now a few years later, she has millions of followers and is making strides in the blogging community. When Ace gets an invite to attend a listening party for one of Raw Record’s artist, she never expects to run into slick-mouthed Bless Callaghan. Sinclair is a wedding planner, who had plans on becoming a singer. When singing didn’t pay the bills, she followed her parents advice, went to college and fell into her career - literally. When she goes with her best friend, Ace to a listening party, she runs into no other than Polite. When their worlds collide, nothing will ever be the same for Sin. Will Polite help her rediscover that love for music? Or will Sinclair continue to play it safe, like she has all her life?

Genres: Audiobook, African American Romance

270 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 5, 2019

Reviews

[Rein · Rating 4 out of 5]

Real Slow development

Reading Jaquels latest work then going back and starting to read her past work you can tell she developing her writing style AND maybe even brought in a proofreading team. There are way less errors and as mentioned in the book forward she slowed this down to develop the characters.

I’m excited to see what the next books in this series brings.

Polite - just why? I want to like you but you moving funny.
Bless - I rock with you and your foul mouth. I need the dots connected on that PI info.
Ash - Your grown, stay in the bag. You waited in the wings and that’s what happens when you don’t shoot your shot. Taking that step the way you did only allowed him to treat you like he did anyone after Shai.
Ace - super emotional girl, get your grown woman on and stop making excuses and crying all the damn time.
Sin - Damn, you didn’t deserve that. Keep your head up and continue to be about you. Maybe it’s a good thing you were hesitant to sign.
Niko - Wow; I thought I hated you on behalf of Ace but damn now I hate you on behalf of everyone.

[Brittni · Rating 4 out of 5]

The broth in the pot is seasoned but it's simmering for me, hasn't quite reached it's boiling point. 3.5

[Ladii Zig · Rating 5 out of 5]

BANGERRRRRRRRR ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Jahquel you are a freaking GENIUS!!!!! Why I didn't see that coming, mannnnnnn the twist and turns this story taking it's going to take more then 2 books to tell it all. When I say it's a small world it really is, what are the odds that Yero and Niko are the same person. I just know Ashlee pregnant but I don't know how Bless is going to be feeling about that and what's that going to do for Ace and his growing relationship, Polite and his bougie boo not going to work but the damage had been done because he let him and Sin go too far. I'm really curious about Val I want to know more about her and Prayer. Can't wait for the next book great read I really really enjoyed it

[Charmaine Downs · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG! A MUST READ!!!

First I love love live this storyline and all the characters. The emotional turmoil that is revealed with each couple's situation is so whew! One click! It's fire!

[AlexTRBG · Rating 5 out of 5]

I might have to go back and read this whole series 😅🙃

[Meleka · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jah is always gonna leave us with a cliff hanger that has mouths dropping open.

[Greyson · Rating 1 out of 5]

1⭐️ Naveah (heaven spelled backwards), Bless, Sin, Prayer, Polite, Bishop. WHAT THE FUCK ARE THESE NAMES?
Also, MMCs in urban romances don’t HAVE to be misogynistic. They genuinely don’t. “Bless” is a fucking nightmare.
“Sin” is the only MC I like and all the other characters are either flat or boring.
The continuous use of “seed” to describe a child makes me wanna fuggin gag! And the language is repetitive and in need of an editor. Most of the people in this book SUCK. And just be having relationships all willy-nilly. Unprotected sex, and toxicity! Absolutely not.
And to top it all off, the original opening storyline had NOTHING to do with the rest of this book.

[Jaszmin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really dont like when books have the readers following 4 people. I feel like Sinclair and Polite should have had their own book. It was kinda hard to keep up with which pov we were on. With that said LOVED this book Down! That ending....baby let me gone head and get the audiobook for the next one!

[Courtney Allmon-bady · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is messy. I loved every minute of it! The drama was tea!!!🫖

[eBookHill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bless is an asshole. I’m sorry, but that’s really the only way to start this review.

The entire time I was reading…all I could hear in my head was that scene from The Real Housewives of Atlanta when NeNe Leakes says, “Cheers to the girls’ trip.” “Cheers, bitch.” “You better watch those B-words.” Because that’s exactly the energy it was giving 😭

And let’s not even get started on his brother Polite…because he ain’t shit either.

Mrs. Author Lady…respectfully, please turn these men’s lives around.

[DeNitra Tidwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

😳😳😳😳

It started off slow but I expected it because it was discussed at the beginning of the book. Now it’s picking up and I’m ready for part 2. So many things are going through my head

[Moon ee · Rating 2 out of 5]

Blah

It’s hard to believe this book is from jaquel , if it’s not her Delgato or caselli series her books just don’t hit that great. There was contradictory in this book and it dragged. It just wasn’t a good read to me.

[Sherri Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG....OMG...

Jah....Chile so many turns and twist. I'm here for it all. However, I wasn't ready. Bless was about to irritate my soul. But I gave him grace. You never know what a person is dealing with. The brothers are funny yet there for each other. Ashlee made a grave mistake. It sounds great to say you're grown ....but reality will slap you in the face. Ace needs Bless and he needs her. I want to know where Val is. She was cool and a true friend. Sin put your voice out there and make it happen. Now Polite....you on the list. You know you are just pretending with Kam...whatever. Now let me move on to the next👌🏾👌🏾✨️✨️❤️

[Jessica S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I ended up rereading this book. Because it was finally my turn for the audiobook for book 2. So I had to dive back into book one.



So glad I did. I love me some Ace & Bless. And poor Sin can’t catch a BREAK. My girl is going through it. And Ace’s baby daddy WHATTTTT!!!!!! 😱😳

[Danielle Vaughan · Rating 5 out of 5]

oh wow

Listen I’m about to really invest in this author seriously. All of her books got me in a chokehold. Niko-Yero, Vio-Kamaya, Erin and his audacity. WTH. So much drama and this is what I love about this author. I’m about to cancel all of my appointments today.

[Precious Coppadge · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ace is so annoying…….

I like BLESS…

I knew Ashley was pregnant. That weird energy she was giving off is RIDICULOUS

I LIKE VAL.

I like ace & Sin relationship.

Polite low key ANNOYED ME TOO

[Charmy Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I definitely didn't prepare myself enough going into this series. I didn't realize that it was one of four. When I got the end and there was a cliffhanger (I didn't expect anything less) I went to download the next book. I was definitely hit with a surprise that there were three more following this one. Which means I have two more cliffhangers to survive! Thankfully this is a finished series and I don't have to sit on pins and needles to be put out of my misery.

This first book focuses on two brothers (Bless and Polite) and two best friends (Ace and Sin). There are several side characters that are introduced but those four are the MCs of the first book. Of course there is betrayal, drama, situations, lies, and a sprinkling of more to get you wrapped up in the storyline.

I will admit that it took me a little more than I would have liked to grasp the personality of the different characters. I don't mind multiple POVs but for some reason I kept getting them mixed up with who was who and who was supposed to interested in which character. I had to write them down and something memorable about their personality so I could fully enjoy the story. Once I got that down, the situations were making a lot more sense.

I liked the peek into Bless' backstory and giving a hint at how he came to be the person currently in the story. I'm very interested in reading how his character will soften up with the introduction of what he's been missing in his life for so long...someone to love and care about and for him to do the same. I'm a little disappointed in Bless when it came to Ace and Ashlee. I feel like that is going to come back to bite him big time.

In the beginning I really liked Polite but his character came into question once Kamaya's name popped up. Now he's back to square one for me. No matter how much he tries to justify his actions, he's still moving foul. I definitely want to see how he's going to finesse this one to make him look like the victim. Because I have a feeling that's exactly what he's going to do. He's not going to accept full responsibility for his actions and choosing to not be fully transparent with people.

I'm diving straight into the next book because I really want to see how these characters are connected with this cliffhanger.

[Jessica French · Rating 2 out of 5]

Let me just start by saying this wasn’t my favorite series by Jaquel J. It was not a lot going on and some of the added things didn’t feel needed. Like Ace breaking up with Bless for him to heal, girl you could been with that man while he worked through his stuff. Also, she needed healing too, she stayed trying to leave when things didn’t go her way. Or give ultimatums.

Ashley being pregnant was another added thing that could have been left out. The books were also way too short and could have been combined into 2 books instead of 4. Got us out her wasting credits or buying books for this BS. I found myself skipping through these books to get to the point. It took forever to get to the stuff I wanted answers to. I felt played with the entire book and then everything got dumped at the end to get us to read the next book. What a scam.

Okay book 3 started off jumping a little bit. Also, in book 3 I was confused because Kamaya said she called Sin to put a pause on the wedding and in book 3 she was still sending requests to Sin’s staff while she’s in the hospital. I was a little excited to hear more about their Prayer and Val’s story. Giving Kni a chapter in book was a waste of paper and it felt like fluff. Man don’t nobody want to know about him and his ex, get to the point. Also, in this book Ace says Niko has never put his hands on her but in book 2 Niko admitted to slapping Ace once. The discrepancies bothered me it’s like sloppy work. Also, the author spells Ashley’s name differently in book 3, it was Ashlee but now it’s Ashley.

I didn’t like Ace’s attitude with Emani in book 3, she didn’t do anything to you, that was all Niko. She could have been more supportive of her when she came to her, she came off as a jealous ex and that’s not a good look. If you have moved on and are happy, don’t be bitter. She is still getting on my nerves in Book 3, I agree with Sin’s thoughts on her feelings about the Bless situation. Be and that he lied, she’s too quick to throw away a good man but spend years on a no good one. Girl, make it make sense. She irritated me and was getting on my nerves.

[BarbieTheeReader🎀🫦 · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75 stars

"I want everything and then some for you."
"You too pretty to have your face baled up like that. Da fuq wrong with you?"
"Secure your bag, but make sure you take time to breathe too."

Big thanks to Libro f.m. for the ALC. WOW! Okay this is my first read by this author, and best believe, it will not be the last!! I will be finishing this series ASAP. This was soooo good. I loved that it was fast paced, even though some parts felt a tiny bit choppy but that is okay, I still ate this up!!! This gave all the Love & Hip Hop, and Empire vibes that I so desperately needed. This was such a quick listen! The voice narrators did a phenomenal job, omg! They were able to change their voices to fit different characters and different POV's as well and it fit just right! I was captivated with Bless and Polite, they are extremely different characters, but they both are truly in some messy and dramatic situations. I loved that there were a few POV's to get to know each character with how they think (it definitely moved the story along and I liked that form of story telling), and to see their vulnerable side as well. Sinclair and Ace definitely matched Bless and Polite's vibe and vulnerability, I liked their connection with them and truly can't wait to see how things develop over the series, it won't be a simple past that's for sure. ALSO THE ENDING???

[Rise · Rating 4 out of 5]

This feels like it may have been written during Jahquel’s earlier years, because a lot of the characters come across as pretty immature. Ashlee, for example, feels very calculated—like she knows exactly what she’s doing at all times. Her actions don’t come off as accidental; they feel intentional, almost strategic, which makes her a bit hard to trust.

As for “Vio,” I really thought I was going to like his character at first, but my opinion shifted as things started to unfold. I found myself wanting more from his character, especially in terms of how certain dynamics were handled.

Right now, Prayer seems like the most innocent one in the group, though it’s obvious the drama is only just beginning. Bishop “Bless,” on the other hand, is a bit much for me at this point—he’s abrasive, rude, and doesn’t seem to care who he offends, which makes him hard to warm up to.

Overall, the characters feel more aligned with a YA tone, which is the impression I’ve gotten from the story so far. Still, I’ve already started the series, so I’m going to stick it out—I’m invested enough to see how everything unfolds in the end.

3.5 rating

[Marah · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ok, now this one was unexpectedly good!

I was nervous at first because as a new Jahquel J. enthusiast, some of her early books were a bit sketch, but this one…on to book 2 because NICO!!!

….

⭐ 1 Star – Didn’t Like It
• Forced yourself to finish or DNF’d
• Poor writing, confusing, boring, or irritating
• Would not recommend
• Actively disliked it

⭐ ⭐ 2 Stars – It Was Okay / Meh
• Finished it, but barely
• Some good moments, but overall disappointing
• Wouldn’t reread
• Might warn people before recommending

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 3 Stars – Liked It
• Enjoyable enough
• Solid story, but not memorable
• Some flaws (pacing, characters, plot holes)
• Would recommend casually, not enthusiastically

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 4 Stars – Really Liked It
• Engaging, well-written
• Strong characters or plot
• You’d recommend it without hesitation
• Minor issues, but they didn’t ruin the experience

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 5 Stars – Loved It
• Couldn’t put it down
• Emotional impact, memorable
• Would reread or buy a physical copy
• You’re still thinking about it after finishing

[thedailydiva · Rating 3 out of 5]

Though it hurts my heart to give this woman anything less than 5 stars, it’s warranted. This is one of her earlier works and I love the growth she has had.

This book, I’m not a fan of three stories in one. Each brother and their ladies deserve their own stories. This could also be me being greedy. The first few chapters it took a min to figure out who was who.

But as the story unfolded, the authors storytelling came right on through. The drama, the jaw drop moments. Classic Jahquel J! Love to see it. I appreciate seeing the development of her style. She has reached her stride in her most recent series. This one had bumps and grammar/syntax mistakes. But I’m still grateful for them. They’ve forged the beloved author we now have.

Great start to what I’m sure will be a good story. One to the next.

[Stephanie Mclendon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fiyahhhhhhhh!!!!!

Lash at aka Ace and her best friend Sinclair aka Sin are 2bosses that are just still figuring out life with these clown azz dudes that are in their lives, well hitting and leaving. Niko does not care about his daughter but wants his cake and pie too. Bless, Polite and Prayer are cool brothers who all have talent. Ace is hired to follow around the starts and Sin runs her wedding event business. Valarie is one of Ace’s friends from way back but they link up. There are existing baggage these people carry but new friendships are budding and the past is going to catch up with Niko and Ace will not be there to save him!!!

[evette w · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just Really Good

What a way to start a story,right out the gate we are hit with all the action and emotion we can stand. The writer gives us a group of people who are struggling to heal and find themselves. All their lives are intertwined with one another,not only because of the business but also mutual things they have in common. This is an entertaining story about adults trying to navigate life. I love that the writer brings us in the story and kinda of places us in some of the predicaments. This was a very good story and I'm sure the next installment is going to be spectacular.

[Tisha · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️

Leave it to Jahquel to have you gagging at the end.

Polite truly disappointed me, I knew I would be annoyed with what I knew before the actual bombshell.

Ace really worked my nerves, everyone was trying to tell her. And yet, she continued to be a dummy behind Niko. She sounded real stupid encouraging her friend to meet up with Erin. Sometimes it be your own people🤦🏾‍♀️.

Not sure if I’ll finish the whole series, I’m going to need the story to fully progress in book 2. There’s so much more secrets to be revealed.

I have a feeling Ash is about to be an issue, along with her artist she’s developing.

[tanessia ford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yet again

She has done it again. She is clearly not playing around. I’m disappointed in Polite. I’m no longer feeling him at the moment. I can’t get enough of Bless and Ace. Even though he is a whole mess. I’m curious about Val and Prayer and where they can go. Ace was aggravating me because she had a whole real one in her face and was stuck on a f boy! Like girl really. Now part of that twist I saw coming. But that last part bruhhh is you petty for that. Imma need you to come up off of part 2. Sensational job

[Miranda Watkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book here loooorrrdddd the set up for the mess to come. I’ve read sooo many books by Jahquel that I know her formula. Book 1 is an introduction the characters their background & how it relates to the overall plot (typically you won’t know how a particular characters background relates to the plot until the plot twist at the end of book 1). This book did not disappoint. As of now Pilot & Niko is on my hit list. I’m side eyeing Kamaya & Valarie. Ace needs to STAND TF UP!!! Bless is probably my favorite right now.

[TACORA MCCLUNEY · Rating 5 out of 5]

Small World

Damn Yero been around all this time dipping and dodging and now he's bout to get what his snake azz been running from. I would have never guessed that Niko was Yero. Bless really about to Bless him.I feel bad for Sin because all that she shared with Polite and he still didn't tell her he was engaged even when she asked him did he have a girlfriend. I really think Ashley gonna be the one to shake up the drama because I think she's pregnant so Bless might as well stand up and kiss his budding romance with Ace goodbye.💘💘

[Bonnie's Booked Solid · Rating 4 out of 5]

Libby is throwing my holds at me left and right! Slow down!

This was a short read. Overall, it was cool. Bless’ character reminds me of Quasim’s character(not in every aspect). Some men have nerve. The “some men” I’m referring to in this book is Aaron, Nico and Polite.
-Aaron: How you come to your ex-fiancé to ask her to plan you and your new fiancé’s wedding?
-Polite: How you cozying up with one lady while being engaged to someone else?
-Nico: How you questioning your child’s mother when you got a whole chick?

[londonwhimsy · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was ok, but not sure if the story was interesting enough to warrant reading another 3 books.
If you don’t mind an FMC in touch with her emotions, and having a tear or two with a new bae then the story is worth a read.

What I liked: the FMCS were entrepreneurial and weren’t willing to dash their businesses for the MMCs.

What didn’t fit: Neither the FMCs nor the MMCs really hooked me but this is definitely personal preference as I dislike that the FMCs are were pretty emotional and the MMCs weren’t intriguing enough to override some character nuisances for me.