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Soulmates #2

Deep in My Soul

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He kinda looked like Ross, he even smiled like him. My mind didn't want him. It shouldn't have. Not after Ross.

But he smelled good and he talked to me in a way that felt good, deep down in my soul.

He wasn't Ross.

Zena Lewis believed in fairy tales as a little girl. She carried those fantasies of a knight in shining armor loving her until eternity, until her ugly separation and divorce from her ex. These days, a man would have to be lucky to get her to smile back at him, let alone give up her number.

Until Rafael Dupré.

Rafael was different.

164 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 11, 2020

161 people are currently reading
191 people want to read

About the author

Aja

55 books241 followers
When it comes to writing passionate Black love that jumps off the page and into readers’ hearts, Aja’s pen is a leader in the game. To date, she’s written and self-published over 30 books that offer an escape into Black love stories that center on sensual, sexy, and erotic experiences. The winner of BRAB's 2020 Beverly Jenkins Author of The Year and 2022 Brenda Jackson Romance of The Year awards uses her life experience and persuasive storytelling talent to construct characters and situations that showcase the best Black love can be and offer. In the pages of her books, you’ll find relatable characters that seduce you with their intense chemistry that Aja seamlessly blends into soul-stirring romances.

The Pittsburgh native is a full-time writer with the mind and patience that allows her to maintain a life of constant study. Life is her biggest teacher. Through self-study and persistent observation of others, Aja finds the human thread that connects us all. That relatability is a recurring tenet of her award-winning books. Time spent reading any of her narratives is underscored by deep feelings of love and connection because love isn’t just her brand; it’s who she is. Black love advocacy is the central theme on every page she writes because Aja believes Black love is shaped and defined by Black people’s many trials and tribulations. Her Black-on-Black characters love the way they do, not because of what they’ve endured, but in spite of it.

Aja doesn’t just write about love; she lives it every day. She’s familiar with the passion, intensity, and sensuality that readers yearn for, and that’s why her books leave a powerful, lasting mark on readers’ minds. To stay updated on the latest reads from her expansive, decorated catalog, join her mailing list:

https://bit.ly/Signup4Aja

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5 stars
288 (54%)
4 stars
156 (29%)
3 stars
72 (13%)
2 stars
9 (1%)
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2 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
Profile Image for Kameel.
1,059 reviews290 followers
December 31, 2021
This really would have been a cute story…..my problem was with the narrator Shari Peele and that damn incessant swallowing during her narration. She really got on my last nerve and I had to stop this short audiobook a few times to collect myself. The story is about the older sister Zena who really wanted to find true love again, but was hesitant because of a cheating, baby making ex-husband. On a business trip, she meets Rafael (the owner of a car service her agency uses)….Sparks fly immediately and the couple decide to pursue a long distance relationship…..Really would be an awesome story with another narrator…the downside is there’s 2 more stories left in this series with the same narrator.
Profile Image for KBeautiful1.
690 reviews67 followers
June 27, 2021
I finished this book a while ago but have been unable to get on Goodreads because life happens.

I absolutely loveeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeedddd Zena and Raphael's story. Now you want to talk about chemistry, they had it, you want to talk about a man knowing that this was the woman for him although she at first tried to put up her barriers but Raphael Dupree was having none of it.

Zena was married right after she graduated High School and a baby on the way. She never got a chance to experience life the way a teenager would, entering into college. Ross her ex-husband and the father of her only child, was good-looking, a sweet talker, and a devastating smile. But Ross made it a horrible habit of cheating on Zena and damn nearly destroying her (mentally, emotionally and spiritually) through and after their divorce. She was determined to rebuild her life which she did and was not looking for another relationship.

And here comes Raphael Dupree, Zena had no idea that her very world was about to be turned upside down from a chance meeting in New Orleans that involved her job. My, My, My!!! I love Zola's story but Zena's story was phenomenal and a definite reread for sure.

I look forward to reading the last 2 books of the Soulmate Series by Aja.

Well Until My Next Review...Ciao!
Profile Image for Crystal Luckey.
749 reviews31 followers
June 10, 2020
The heart wants what the heart wants. Zena wasnt looking for love, but wasnt sure if it would work since her first love didn't. Rafael was a man who loved women, but he was ready to settle down. On an overnight trip, Zena and Rafael met and it was love at first sight. After that steamy night, they couldn't forget about each other and Rafael made it clear, she was who he wanted.
This book had so much love in it, I was hear for it. Two people who wanted to be loved met and fell in love. They were so in tune with each other and they both knew what they wanted and what it took to make their relationship work. I didnt want Zena and Rafe story to end. Aja did an excellent job with their story and I want to see what's next for them. Thank you for this story, it was needed!!!
Profile Image for Arlena.
3,480 reviews1 follower
June 22, 2020
Title: Deep In My Soul
Author: Aja
Publisher: She Loves Words Publishing
Series: Soulmates Book 2
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:

"Deep In My Soul" by Aja

My Speculation:

The heart knows what the heart wants as it was for Zena and Rafael, who were made for each other from their first meeting. We find Rafael knew that Zena was indeed what he wanted. With Zena having had a fail marriage, we see her somewhat afraid, but one thing for sure, she was falling for Rafael, and he was nothing like her first husband. One thing about this story they both wanted to be loved, and it was interesting seeing if they will get there HEA.
Profile Image for Kari Hansen.
12.2k reviews91 followers
June 15, 2020
When Zena married her husband, she found out that rather than her Prince Charming he was a frog in disguise. She has created a new life for her and her daughter and wasn’t looking for love or a relationship, but fate had other ideas.

From their first meeting Rafael knew that Zena was special and that one night would not be enough but convincing Zena would be the biggest challenge of all.

This is a story about two people who are destined to be together as Zena finally achieves the happiness that she deserves.
781 reviews7 followers
November 19, 2020
How Deep?

"Deep In My Soul" was a sweet tale about inevitability, about when you meet the one who is meant for you, no matter the circumstance, no matter the length of time, your eyes lock, and you know you have found the one! LOVED Zena and Rafael's story!
Profile Image for ShayBooks.
801 reviews17 followers
September 16, 2022
Deep in my soul is the second book in the Soulmate Series in this book we learn more about Zena Lewis and her journey for finding love .

I am really enjoying this series and it is hot , steamy and to the point.
Profile Image for Laronda.
965 reviews5 followers
November 9, 2021
Enjoyed Zena's story

This story was smoking from the start. Rafael's relationship with his family made him all the more attractive. Liked the uniqueness of their journey.
Profile Image for Toya (thereadingchemist).
1,390 reviews188 followers
July 18, 2022
Rafael is the perfect smooth talking cinnamon roll that is perfect for Zena especially after Ross. I just love Aja’s writing and pairings!
Profile Image for ReadnliftwithShar.
1,854 reviews
June 17, 2020
Soulmates ❤️

Very good work, the title was so fitting. Soulmates were exactly what Zena and Rafael were for each other. It almost seemed like a love at first sight story but not as cheesy, lol. I loved the chemistry that the two characters had, nothing seemed forced or unrealistic. The author did a great job mixing in the creole French aspect to the book, I can tell she did her due diligence on the topic. The characters were super relatable and down to earth. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience that this book offered. Good work and I am looking forward to Zoe’s story. ❤️
Profile Image for Mrs..
5,989 reviews106 followers
June 28, 2020
Deeper

The second story allowed readers a deeper look into visions and older African traditions. Love found a warm place to nest. Zina was the true love to Rafael.
Profile Image for Dédé.
304 reviews32 followers
September 25, 2021
Deep in My Soul (Soulmates #2) by Aja is about medical salesperson Zena Lewis and car service owner Rafael Dupré. Zena has to fly into New Orleans for a last minute business presentation. It is fate that Rafael’s employee is M.I.A and he has to step in and chauffeur Zena around. From the moment they meet the chemistry is there. Zena’s been hurt before and although she loves love she’s only hoping for one night of passion. And Baybeee does Rafael give it to HER! Unfortunately,for her she doesn’t get to steal Rafael’s heart and run away. Lord, Rafael is 🤤 The way he chases after Zena is everything! When he switches between Creole and French. He’s also so patient with Zena but it doesn’t stop him from being a man of action. I also love the relationship he built with Zoe Zena’s daughter. Zena’s daughter Zoe is a godsend, the way she supports and encourages her mom is beautiful. I also love that Zoe be telling these grown people about themselves, respectfully! Zoe fully embraces her gifts and we come to Zena do the same. Rafael’s family is amazing, the conversations he has with his mother and grandmother show they raised an amazing man. The love between Zena and Rafael is easy to fall into, their connection is indescribable. They just have it! They’re truly soulmates, it was written in the stars. I can’t wait to read Zoe’s story.
P.s. These covers are gorgeous! I am obsessed 😍 I had to get them for my bookshelf!
P.s.s. Le sexe est très très chaud 🔥
 
 
Profile Image for Angela .
98 reviews
February 18, 2022
This book is #2 in the Soulmate series. I will begin by saying I like this one better than the first book in the series. There is so much I enjoyed about this book. Zena is the oldest sister to Zola, she also has a daughter, Zoe from her previous marriage, a marriage that went completely wrong. Zora is not series about anyone, but she has hope.

When Zena gets stuck having to take a business trip for her job to meet with some clients and the driver that picks her up at the airport is more then she anticipated. Rafael is the owner of a transportation service company, but when one of his drivers is not available to pick up Zena, he shows up. These two met on a whim, without any expectations of what would happen next. Due to professionalism, they both try and keep their desires for each other quiet, but things escalate between the two. I love the connection between Zena and Rafael; how they met and how their relationship developed. I love the vibe of New Orleans and Rafael speaking French to Zena. I give this book a 5 out of 5 stars rating. Enjoyed!

My Vision of Characters:
• Janelle Monae as Zena
• Hunter Rockwell, model as Rafael
Profile Image for Cassandra Haywood.
326 reviews
June 15, 2020
The title of this book had me feeling the love of someone so deep you just know when you first laid eyes on that person there is a connection like no other you have experienced before. This is how Zena and Raphael felt when they first met.
Zena Lewis was on a business trip to Louisiana and Raphael was her transportation driver. She was not looking for love after going through a bad marriage and divorce. Raphael Dupre was not looking to settle down because of him being the CEO family transportation business and not meeting a woman who could make him want love, marriage and children.
My attention was held from the beginning until the end.
I highly recommend this book to read especially if you love romance, steamy sex and a man who can make you feel like you are his and he is yours. I look forward to reading more books by this author .
Cassandra H.

I received an ARC for review and this review is of my own honest opinion.
Profile Image for Tracy - loves to read .
1,013 reviews
August 27, 2023
open your eye

Letting past hurt block your blessing is what Zena was doing. So afraid to be loved and give love in return, afraid that the same level she loves wouldn’t be reciprocated, not wanting to repeat past mistakes, not being fully open to love and letting the past go. Zenas ex husband did her dirty and she still harbored pain, bitterness and resentment from it. She didn’t trust men but she knew she wanted to experience the love that was meant for her. God could work with that.
Rafe was a good looking man who’s had his share of women. He knew how to wield his attributes to get who he wanted. Lately he’d been wondering when he’d meet the one for him and have a great love like his grandparents.
A chance encounter and it was an instant connection.
I was glad that she opened her eye which opened her heart and freed it from all that was blocking it to see the man that was deep in her soul and her souls gift.
Great read!
Profile Image for Toya  Davis-Stokley.
2,548 reviews99 followers
June 17, 2020
Yes! Just when you are not looking for love, nor want it; it finds you. Zena, recently divorced, goes on a trip for work in New Orleans. Her driver, is a man who looks so much like her ex-husband, but then again he doesn't. She is immediately drawn to him, although she doesn't want to be. Rafael, a good family man, who is looking to settle down, meets Zena accidentally when one of his drivers doesn't show up. Rafael knew she was it! The chemistry and passion that they had could almost be felt through the pages. When their eyes met, as well as the hidden glances at each other, the love was potent and instant! I enjoyed the wisdom and the clear visions that Zoe had. That girl been here before! Cannot wait to read her story as well. Great job!
Profile Image for Vondetta Carter.
830 reviews8 followers
June 24, 2020
Zena was the older of two sisters. Her sister has a lover but Zena and her daughter are unsure of who he is. Zena wants love because her marriage to her daughter's dad ended in divorce. Her trust in men lacked much because her ex had been a liar and had children outside of their marriage.
Rapahel was a player but he had finally reached his place of knowing he needed to find his other half. He had come from a line of handsome men who had no problem entertaining ladies in the NO.
Life for these two people changed forever when Zena's boss sent her the NO to handle a business meeting. Ross became the driver to pick her up when his employee bailed.
Her senses went into overdrive when she noticed how he noticed her. His senses went into high gear when he spied her gorgeous legs.
Will these two acknowledge the heat as a passing thing or will fate lead them to each of their forever loves?
Great read..can't wait for part 3 in this series..
Profile Image for Q. Moore.
961 reviews38 followers
January 3, 2022
Powerful

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I have been anticipating iut for awhile now. It was definitely worth the wait. Zena and Rafael's story was just deep. Their connection was like a moth to a flame. It was their gifts that each shared that was scary but good. They both can communicate and see each other miles apart when they used their gift. I loved the connections all the women have and how it seems to be passed down each generation. I am hoping by the third book it some babies on the horizon for Khalil and Zola as well as Zena and Rafael.

Download, relax, and enjoy but make sure to read the first book so you can stay connected.
Profile Image for Geri Evans.
664 reviews
June 19, 2020
Deep In My Soul, I Knew!! 🔥🔥

Man, I thought Zola and Khalil had that Soulmates love tied up, but, no, Zena and Raphael really showed up and showed out!! This kind of love is not to be taken lightly, and both Zena and Raphael jumped onboard and paddled the heck towards it together!! The chemistry between them was electric! All I can say is that if you haven’t started reading this series, you are truly missing out!! I highly recommend this book and series!! Kudos, Aja!! You Did That!! 💜💜
Profile Image for Kathy.
297 reviews
February 20, 2023
This was the second book in the Soulmates series by Aja and again I enjoyed it. Zena is Zola’s older sister who was a single mom that had a bad marriage. She meets a handsome New Orleans born Rafael and instant attraction. I enjoyed that the attraction and interest was shared by both and they didn’t let anything stop them from acting upon it. That’s what grown people do. It’s another short sweet story and I enjoyed it. I listened to it and again I love the narrators Shari Peele and Leon Nixon. I think you’ll like it.





#cillasbookmaniacs
Profile Image for Brenda  Larnell.
442 reviews25 followers
June 13, 2020
Who doesn’t want a love like Zena and Rafael? Their connection was off-the-chart HOT! Not only was this story HOT, but it was also DEEP. Aja captured that New Orleans mystical vibe through her characters. It’s a Third Eye thing, and you must read the story to really understand that. I loved this story, and that once in a lifetime love that Zena and Rafael brought to the story. Those Z women are something else. I highly recommend DEEP IN MY SOUL for your reading pleasure. It’s a great read!
169 reviews
June 17, 2020
Another Winner

Zena & Rafael's story was just as riveting as She's Got Soul was. Their love was electric. Zena had to learn how to trust in love again after a divorce. Rafael knew how to love her and give her the space she thought she needed. He knew she was his HEART from the first time their eyes connected. I know Zoe's story is going to be just as powerful. I can't wait for Zora's story!!!! Well written and told!!!!!
1,412 reviews12 followers
June 18, 2020
Drama free!

Wow, it was so refreshing to have a drama free love story. Without all of the drama clouding my senses, I was able to really focus on the love that Zena and Rafael found with each other. Their love was pure, organic and sizzling. When Rafael told Zina, “I wanted you, so I came for you,” I screamed. Go Rafael, claim your woman. I’m looking forward to reading Zoe’s story.
Profile Image for CaroMommie.
668 reviews8 followers
June 19, 2020
I loved this story so much, it hit home in so many ways 🙂. I was particularly taken with the gifts that the family possess and how well written and attention to detail it received.

Zena is so relatable in her recovery from her previous relationship and life, she is me and I am her.

Rafe is a true hero 🙂. He was written so well and real and I just Stan! The both of them together is relationship goals.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it was worth all my time 🙂.
Profile Image for L.S. Bergman.
Author 37 books30 followers
June 24, 2020
Loved this latest installment in the Series! Zena and Rafael's connection was surreal. Soulmates with one hell of a psychic interdependence. Their connection was sexy and destined. Having endured some serious relationship pain with her previous partner Ross, the author developed a sweet HEA for Zena. Raf was the right man at the right time, laying down fresh tracks with a woman and a spiritual connection deserving of his love. Great job!
Profile Image for Felicia Brown.
326 reviews18 followers
July 7, 2020
Travel for your soulmate

I enjoyed Rafael & Zena story. I’m glad that she let love come into her life . God will do it . When you think no one is for you God will send him . And I love that Zoe love to cook . This book have showed me a lot and I enjoyed it from beginning to end . Please grab your favorite drink and enjoy this LOVE STORY ,that will touch you as soon you start reading it . Thank you Aja
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews

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