Nubia Merci and Naazir Goodman were never supposed to be a couple… at least that's what the people close to them believed... Despite the odds, somehow, they’ve formed an enviable courtship. But while they are working diligently to nurture and cultivate their love, those same people in their lives are working even harder to tear them apart. Nubia, an interior decorator, is without a doubt in love. She’s a creative, able to imagine an abundance of possibilities, creating magic with spaces that seem impossible to work with. As imaginative as she is though, never did she imagine falling for a man like Naazir. And now that she has fallen, she has no intentions of letting him go. A series of events will challenge her plans when she's dealt the "mother of all ebbs." Will those events force her to abandon ship? Naazir, a street muralist, is used to things not going his way. Life for him has never been easy, leaving him no choice but to hustle harder than the average brother especially in matters of the heart. He has gone to extraordinary lengths to win the affections of a woman who has revealed to him the bared bones of intimacy. And he has dedicated his heart to earning Nubia’s faith in them as a couple. Will a decision Naazir makes, as innocent as he originally thought it to be, ruin everything he’s worked so hard to build with the love of his life? Products of two different environments, Naazir and Nubia have cemented a bond that is ironclad strong. But is their bond strong enough to anchor them so they can survive the brewing storm that’s approaching? *This book contains sexually explicit content, profanity, and minor angst. If any of the mentioned are of a sensitive nature to you, please feel free to browse Brookelyn Mosley's catalogue of other stories to find the best fit for your reading experience.
Brookelyn wrote her first short story when she was a sophomore in high school. Back then she discovered how using her experience as a teen living in Brooklyn to create romantic shorts was just as exciting to her as retail shopping and going on dates. After starting her first semester of college two years later, Brookelyn’s creative writing became more of a hobby and something to do to escape the stress of midterms and finals. Now in her 30s as a freelance writer, penning short stories and novellas is her everything. While her experience with writing has evolved for the better, her undying love for creating fiction remains unchanged. Brookelyn's focus is on creating contemporary women's fiction with characters based in urban settings. Her stories chronicles the emotional journeys and erotic experiences of women today through her characters and the scenarios they're thrown into.
The motivation behind her brand of writing has a lot to do with what she discovered storytelling provided for her - an escape. Her goal with her work is to create characters and urban worlds that offer a great escape for fiction readers looking for a break from the daily grind of adulting and who prefer to relax with good books and short stories. When she’s not freelancing, doing yoga, or showing her husband and toddler lots of love, she can be found sitting at her computer desk, with her legs folded, and a cup of coffee (or a glass of wine) at arm’s reach as she types or edits her latest short or novella.
In the middle of writing my review, it accidentally got deleted. I don't have the energy to try and remember what I wrote so, here's a quick rundown. Ebb & Flow was a really good book. Nubia and Naazir were the quintessential black love relationship goals we all stride to have. The love these two had for one another was like kindred spirits. I loved the flow of the storyline, and the development of the characters. Between his disrespectful azz mama and his ex who refused to believe their relationship was over, Nubia and Naazir had to fight hard to stay together. But, they got past all the drama (and there was plenty) and was able to get to their much deserved HEA. Ebb & Flow was full of drama with a touch of messiness but, it will thoroughly entertain you. The storyline was simple yet the characters and emotions were complex and mature. Well done Ms. Mosley.
How it started: 🎶 It's like yesterday, I didn't even know your name. Now today, you're always on my mind. I never could have predicted that I feel this way. You're beautiful surprise🎶
How it ended: 🎶 Whatever it is you came to teach me, I am here to learn it cause I believe that we're written in the stars. I don't know the future hopes, but I'm living in the moment. And I'm thankful for the man that you are 🎶
“Your spirit is one I'm shocked God allowed the world to experience in human form and not keep to himself.”
Naazir and Nubia couldn’t have been more different on paper. She was an educated, crystal loving, energy reading, chakra channeling, incense burning, type of woman while Naazir was a hood 🥷 who spoke in broken English and had the odds to be another statistic in the black community stacked against him. Coming from two completely different environments you would think these two would be doomed before they could even start and yet despite everyone telling them they would never last, they chose each other daily and were committed to their success even if no one else was.
Nubia’s client and psychologist told her that "Relationships ebb and flow," and that "The ebb is the less than pretty truth about relationships that people don't like to discuss." Baby Naazir and Nubia’s relationship experienced the mother of all ebbs and I still found myself rooting for these two to win. I shared their pain on a deep level and was determined to share in their triumphs as they worked intentionally to get the ebbs back flowing again.
This story was absolutely everything!!! I had no idea what to expect going into this read but it wasn’t this!! When I saw a fellow bookie’s review I was instantly intrigued and wanted to know their story real bad. I was not prepared to absolutely fall in love with these characters and their story centered on heartbreak and healing! You couldn’t help but to rally behind them when the odds and everyone had the chips stacked against them. These two opposites attracted like magnets and I was sucked in from the very beginning. Every author has that one book in their catalog that completely blows you away and Brooklyn, this one was yours! 5 💫’s
4.25 ⭐️ I will always be here for couples doing the work to stay together. Sometimes the bond is just too strong to be broken by outside forces. I loved this couple but it was Nubia for me. A literal Queen. This was my first read by this author and I can’t wait to read more.
Nubia and Naazir were #couplegoals the girlies on social media rant and rave about. They referred to each other as King and Queen because to each other they were royalty and treated each other as such. Nubia brought out the best in Naazir, ensuring he understood the importance of being whole...loving himself so that he could love her properly. These two were the definitions of souls tied.
However, that didn't exempt them from jealousy and evil from outside forces and bad decisions. Through all of the adversity Queen Nubia shined. Sometimes we get caught up not wanting to be that girl. When outside noise never equates to shii. Following her heart and Naazirs...she allowed herself to be the selfless, gracious, beautifully made woman that she was. Always looking for the best ways to handle situations, regardless of her own emotions. Naazir was lucky to have her, a woman so understanding and that truly knew his heart.
Angie disgusted me. She clearly had some loose screws and I wanted to DRAG her so bad.
This is how you write a complete novella! Excellent book rec!
Nubia and Naazir being two different people from two different worlds fought for their love. And what’s understood don’t need to be explained. Angie you weird hoe God don’t like UGLY. Nubia was too good of a human.
Mrs. Mosley knows how to pen a story! Ebb & Flow was captivating and emotional. I loved everything about Nubia and Nazzir - the tribulations they went through was astounding but t Unbreakable bond could not be broken, as they overcame the many hurdles. Sooo good and healing .💗
4.5 - This was an absolute beautiful novella even with all the messiness. Nubia and Naazir’s relationship was pure black love. As a reader you can feel it coming off the pages. Loved the way Naazir worshipped and looked after his Queen. They uplifted each other as royalty. Nubia I adored her character so much. Baby she is a rare and beautiful gem. Someone like her you go to war for. The way she handled Angie, ol nasty heifer, and Naazir’s mom with grace is something only a beautiful and peaceful soul could do.
I’m glad the author brought a topic to light with what happened between Naazir and Angie because it’s not talked about enough. A lot of men have experienced what women have as well. I wish people understood it’s okay to cut off family. When you’re trying to grow and have better everyone can not experience that with you until they evolve. Nubia and Naazir truly did the work for their special relationship that a lot of us want. After what happened i would need some time or i would have given up completely. God or something would have to give me a change of heart and this is just speaking from a woman that has been hurt one too many times. But hey, if a relationship can bounce back and be better than before I say go for it.
First read by this author via KU and i can’t wait to read more.
This novella was sweet! Nubia was absolutely a QUEEN! 👸🏾 I was amazed with the wording in this story, absolutely swoon-worthy. Both Nubia & Naazir were talking that ish. Anything that could happen, did, and this couple took it in stride every time. I loved this. 🤎
As much as I loved Nubia and Nazzir, I cannot get with what Angie did to him. That was... geez😯🤨.
I like that Nubia was so in tune with her earth. She was a Melanated Queen and Nazzir treated her as such. She helped him become a King, honing his Kingdom with a ferocity that could be honored and respected. I was hoping that even with her sweet self, that Nubia would've stole off on Angie. Not during that tragic moment at their loft, yet before. Maybe if she'd been a bit more 'Don't Come For Me' earlier on, Angie would've stepped back, yet she saw that Nubia wasn't going to approach her like that, so she continued with her shenanigans. It didn't help that Nazzirs' mom was in on the mess too🤦🏾♀️. Just a whole crap show, I tell ya.
Nazzir, while learning to be a King, he still had his down moments. That night that he just let the negativity of Nubia's friends roll off his back, when he could've let loose, was a smile hard moment for sure. The way he always made sure Nubia was stress and thoroughly relaxed her whole body was too😏. Oh, but then he got in his feelings, and the unthinkable happened. I don't blame him for what happened between he and Angie bc she took advantage of him in a very vulnerable moment. What I do blame him for is drinking himself to a point of not being able to defend himself if something were to pop off. He knew how Angie was moving and stayed at his mom's anyway bc he was upset. Either way, Angie didn't win and he finally saw her for the conniving trash she was. Just deplorable. Ughh. I'm glad that he was honest with Nubia about it all. He could've tried to hide it, yet he was upfront and I like that. While what happened could've been the end of his and Nubia's journey, I think it opened his eyes to how he should move going forward.
This was a journey that I hope no one has to take. I love that Love won, yet it was a true fight to get there.
This was my first book of Brookelyn Mosley's, yet I'm already on to the next of hers. I suggest you get into her writings too.
This book! I loved it so much! Black love, a little angst, a nasty ex and a hateful mother in law. The lesson learned from reading this book was that we truly have to make decisions based on what we want the outcome to be. We shouldn’t limit ourselves to thinking we aren’t ever going to put up with this or that and also conform to the standards others believe in. As devastating as this situation was, Nubia could have missed out on her King. I’m glad her job led her to the person who helped her get out of her own way! I liked Nazirre for the most part. He definitely loved him some Nubia. I just feel like his mother needed to be put in her place from jump. Nubia shouldn’t have had to be disrespected in her own home and if she didn’t want to go to his mother’s home for thanksgiving, she shouldn’t have had to. I didn’t like the way he spoke to her. As soon as he saw that his momma hadn’t accommodated him for dinner and had invited his ex, he should have left immediately. Instead, he decided to drink alcohol knowing she was spiteful and no good! But, it all ended up going the way it was supposed to!
This story took me on an emotional ride as Nubia and Naazir fought to stay together despite so many people trying to pull them apart. Their love was tested by a conniving ex, a disrespectful mother, and a lack of support from friends, yet they stood strong.
What stood out the most was the powerful advice Nubia received from her therapist: “The only way out of hurt is to go through it… even the worst moments in life prevent stagnation and promote evolution.” That message resonated deeply and was a reminder that growth often comes through pain.
Nubia and Naazir came from different worlds, but they brought out the best in each other. I appreciated how the story highlighted positivity and growth for Black men in relationships. In the end, love conquered all. This was a quick, heartfelt read that left me believing that when two people are meant to be, nothing can tear them apart.
Title: Ebb & Flow Author: Brookelyn Mosley Publisher: 85 Media LLC Reviewed By: Arlena Dean Rating: Five Review:
"Ebb & Flow" by Brookelyn Mosley
My Rationalization:
I enjoyed this story 'Ebb & Flow' that was about Nubia Merci and Naazir Goodman. With all the 'trails ad tribulations, they went through' truly by the end of the story, the reader will see if they were made for one another. The characters in this story were defined that help gives the reader a good story. The author did an excellent job of making the story seem so very real where we see the 'Products of two different environments, Naazir and Nubia have cemented a bond that is ironclad strong.' Will this be enough to anchor them, and will they be able to survive the brewing storm was coming?' Well, to get the answer, you will have to pick up the good read to see how this author brings it all out so well to the reader.
This was my first read by this author and it won't be my last. I loved the flow of this story, the storyline, the characters and the usage and flow of the dialogue. The love these two had for one another was like kindred spirits. Through choices and circumstances, they let nothing break the undeniable bond that shared. Nubia and Naazir's spirit was everything
This was a good book and very thorough for a novella. I find people with all the Queen and King stuff nauseating 🤮 I could totally understand the friends and family on both sides being annoyed and teasing them. They had love for sure and had to be kindred souls!
This book started out okay. I understand it’s a quick-paced novella but once the baby situation came about, I checked out. I skimmed the rest and took note of the happily ever after ending. Up until then, I enjoyed most of the book. Nubia’s character was painstakingly forgiving and that annoyed me a bit. Naz was cool. Cora was a piece of work and Angie too.
This was my first read by this author, and the cover is what actually caught my eye so I decided to give it a chance and i’m glad I did. This book had a couple of different scenarios that would have had me questioning my union personally, but to read (see) the love and bond between nazir and nubia was beautiful. It actually makes you question how much of the world do we as people allow to spoil something special because we give other opinions so much power over our lives. And this is not say, the scenarios should be accepted but its a question of how deep or strong is your bond/love with someone and if yall can survive a test of not the perfect love story for your fairytale ending? Anyways i don’t want to give anything away and make this too long lol but it was def worth the read, and i look forward to checking out more reads by the author. ❤️
This story was another ride on a rough terrain for the couple. N and N had so many folks trying to pull them apart because they did not understand their energy. I am so happy the naysayers became believers, and N and N had a happily ever after ending.
Title: A Riveting Tale of Love and Resilience in "Ebb and Flow" by Brookelyn Mosley
"Ebb and Flow" by Brookelyn Mosley is a captivating exploration of love, resilience, and the challenges that test the strength of a relationship. Nubia Merci and Naazir Goodman, an unlikely couple according to those around them, navigate the tumultuous waters of love in the face of adversity.
Mosley's storytelling skill shines as she introduces readers to Nubia, an imaginative interior decorator, and Naazir, a street muralist familiar with life's hardships. The characters are richly developed, and their diverse backgrounds add depth to the narrative. The author weaves a compelling story of two individuals defying societal expectations and building a love that transcends their differences.
The core strength of "Ebb and Flow" lies in its portrayal of the challenges that threaten Nubia and Naazir's relationship. Despite their ironclad bond, external forces conspire to tear them apart. The narrative skillfully unfolds as events unfold, testing the couple's commitment to each other. Mosley expertly crafts a story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, wondering if love will conquer all.
Nubia's creative spirit and Naazir's resilience create a dynamic and relatable couple. The author delves into their vulnerabilities, making the characters authentic and compelling. As they face the "mother of all ebbs," readers are taken on an emotional rollercoaster, rooting for the couple's happiness and enduring connection.
The explicit content, profanity, and minor angst mentioned in the story are handled with a careful balance that adds realism to the story without overshadowing its emotional depth. Mosley's narrative explores intimacy with honesty and authenticity, making the characters' journey all the more poignant.
The contrast between Nubia and Naazir's environments adds layers of complexity to their relationship, highlighting the resilience required to navigate societal expectations and external pressures. The brewing storm mentioned in the synopsis becomes a metaphor for the challenges that the couple faces, inviting readers to reflect on the strength of love amidst adversity.
In conclusion, "Ebb and Flow" is a riveting tale that combines passion, resilience, and the transformative power of love. Brookelyn Mosley's masterful storytelling creates a narrative that is both engaging and emotionally resonant. This book is a must-read for those who appreciate love stories with depth, authenticity, and a touch of real-life challenges.
Loved this novella. This story about Nadir and Nubia's relationship the obstacles they faced and how they overcame them They definitely faced some hard ones, judgmental friends, ex who didn't want to let go, infidelity, being pregnant at same time as ex, mother of Nazi doesn't like Ninja to name a few. But we you will get out of the story is how the author is able to give the reader a sense of hope as you realize these two people truly love each other with a love that helps them rise above it all How do they ultimately find their happiness, you need to read the book I love this authors writing she writes real life stories and you can always relate I will definitely continue to read her books Get your copy and sit back and enjoy
When the therapist told Nubia “The only way out of hurt is to go through it. Experience the pain, sort through the questions. Avoid judging yourself if you do something you once said you could never do. Talk to someone if you have to. But remember no matter how hard something is, regardless of how difficult it might be, it is all a part of the rhythm of life. Try not to hate your circumstances too much. Believe it or not, even the worse moments in your life prevent stagnation and promotes the evolution of you." This was soaking to me and I definitely needed to read that!!
I don’t know where to start! This is probably the only story I’ve read (or remember reading) where I felt heartbreak for the person who cheated, I felt instant pain for Nazzir and Nubia...I loved that he told her the truth immediately and didn’t let her find out...I absolutely loved that they didn’t get into a screaming cussing match and called each other names...Nubia was just a gem, so loving and mature in her journey and it was a beautiful testament to her spirit. I’m going to stop here but please readers, if you want pure love and a love that evolves, please click buy and be happy!
Oh my goodness this book was such an amazing read from beginning to end... All the romance and drama included it just left me like WoW!! Nubia and Naazir was definitely something magical. I loved them as an couple as well as individuals because they were so graceful, honest and relatable in who they were even the face of adversary. They even showed tremendous growth throughout the book also which was an amazing bonus. I loved all the hidden gems in this book as well. Once again Brookelyn has blew me completely away.
Nubia and Naazir are the breath of fresh air that I didn't know that I needed. Their love is so pure and authentic, despite the thorn in their side named Cora. Add to that, some judgemental friends and an ex that won't go away.
Despite all of the adversity, therapy and love overpowered. When your soul is synchronized with another, you have no choice but to win!
I definitely have to thank @brookelynmosley, for creating these characters and sharing them with her readers. I highly recommend this 💎💎💎💎💎romance, and look forward to reading more.
We still got a male lead character that was as caring and giving as any male lead that I've encountered when reading a BK story. This was a true test of what a relationship can withstand, and still come out on the other side stronger than before. Naazir and Nubia made it work for them. And despite all the obstacles, they proved that just because something may not seem like the expected outcome, as long as it's right for the two people in the relationship, then that's all that matters!
This was the first book that I’ve read by Brooklyn Mosley and I was quite impressed with her writing. Initially, I didn’t know how the title tied into the story, but it was evident as I kept reading. I loved the relationship between Naazir and Nubia. They came from two different backgrounds but were great for each other. They went through many trials and tribulations that made their love stronger. Great read.
A conniving ex and disrespectful mother had me heated. Add in the lack of support from friends and you'd think this couple wouldn't last. But love conquers all. I was rooting for them from the start and found myself yelling for Naazir to go home when his ex showed up for Thanksgiving. I knew something bad was coming.. and it did times two. The story was simple yet the characters and emotions were complex and mature. This my third Brookelyn Mosely book and for sure won't be my last.
Ms. Mosley did a great job removing the layers of each character. I wanted Nubia to take a harder stance with Nazzir’s mother. She blamed him for the incident at his mother’s house but never acknowledged that she should have been right by his side instead of in her feelings. It was tough as a reader going their journey of growth, sometimes we just want to rush them through the process. I loved the love that these two have for each other. Good book, great job.
I only give out five stars to characters that will love forever in my head. These two will do just that! The sophistication of the storytelling is outstanding. You have to be good at your craft, to deliver real life drama like this without being distasteful. To deliver a cohesive novella is not an easy task. Well done!