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Straddling His Soul
Haji Young is finally home after spending twelve years in a cage. He’s on his second strike, meaning the next crime he commits could send him back to jail for the rest of his life. Haji is straight forward, in need of control, and incapable of tolerating disrespect. He’s a bomb, liable to explode at any given moment— until Mei comes to tame the beast.
Mei Moon loves her career as a probation officer, until her high school sweetheart walks into her office. Twelve years have passed since she’s seen him, and the last thing Mei wants is to be around him in any capacity. Because Haji has been labeled a menace to society, Mei knows he won’t be treated fairly by the system, and her old love for him is the only reason she agrees to help him out.
History and chemistry make it hard for these two to maintain a professional relationship but they try their absolute hardest. Finally surrendering, they become prisoners to their passion, risking their freedom and Mei’s career. In order for their relationship to work, they have to work together to keep Haji out of trouble, but enemies, old friends, and even family seek to prove... once the streets have you... they never really let you go.
Please note: This is book one in a standalone series. It does not end in a cliffhanger, and the next book will feature a new couple with updates on this one.
Mei Moon loves her career as a probation officer, until her high school sweetheart walks into her office. Twelve years have passed since she’s seen him, and the last thing Mei wants is to be around him in any capacity. Because Haji has been labeled a menace to society, Mei knows he won’t be treated fairly by the system, and her old love for him is the only reason she agrees to help him out.
History and chemistry make it hard for these two to maintain a professional relationship but they try their absolute hardest. Finally surrendering, they become prisoners to their passion, risking their freedom and Mei’s career. In order for their relationship to work, they have to work together to keep Haji out of trouble, but enemies, old friends, and even family seek to prove... once the streets have you... they never really let you go.
Please note: This is book one in a standalone series. It does not end in a cliffhanger, and the next book will feature a new couple with updates on this one.
144 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 31, 2019
349 people are currently reading
58 people want to read
About the author
B. Love
282 books1,422 followersVoted AAMBC's 2018 Romance author of the year, Master storyteller B. Love is the unparalleled self-love teacher. As the powerhouse for modern-day womanhood, she pens contagious content that encourages readers to internalize admiration and intimacy. She allows her most powerful vessel to guide her stories, wholly.
Since age 12, Love has been spreading self-awareness, care, and appreciation. For over six years, Love has authored over 40 publications centered around heart-piercing, reverence-worthy romance. Her novels not only entertain but challenge the audience to explore love. With a keen eye for passion, desire and dynamism she includes heuristic methods in her beautifully curated accounts of life.
B. Love’s entire persona is spearheaded by her incredible infatuation with the power of love. Contained within each novel, is an edification created for the glorification of self. Her pen bleeds for the souls who need just an inkling of empowerment. Each story is written with the intent to enlighten, engross and enkindle the passion in whoever picks up her book.
Since age 12, Love has been spreading self-awareness, care, and appreciation. For over six years, Love has authored over 40 publications centered around heart-piercing, reverence-worthy romance. Her novels not only entertain but challenge the audience to explore love. With a keen eye for passion, desire and dynamism she includes heuristic methods in her beautifully curated accounts of life.
B. Love’s entire persona is spearheaded by her incredible infatuation with the power of love. Contained within each novel, is an edification created for the glorification of self. Her pen bleeds for the souls who need just an inkling of empowerment. Each story is written with the intent to enlighten, engross and enkindle the passion in whoever picks up her book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
August 4, 2019
Girl this book was everything!!!!! I commend the love and support that everyone was giving Haji when he came out of jail and the support for the straight and narrow. I wish everyone who came out of prison had the chance and opportunity to give back to the community and make a change. Mei was so supportive towards Haji even after 12 years of “abandonment” she wanted him to see his worth. Loved it B well done as usual. Can’t wait for Anastasia and Montana!!!
September 21, 2019
I enjoyed reading Haji and Mei's story as it proved long lasting love can work. I was hoping Haji would separate himself from Seth, but the family connection made it difficult. Strong storyline with realistic characters. Looking forward to reading the next installment
January 5, 2020
An ok story, cute, and entertaining!!!
This was a cute story, a little bit too short but it was so well redistributed that you still felt fulfilled and understood the story very well.
Mei (couldn't know what ethnicity she is) but strong, intelligent and independent woman has everything going for her.
Haji, handsome and strong as well but a little bit too unsecure. Handsome and all around complete package with issues to overcome.
This story was a touchy story for me as it touches a subject extremely dear and close to me, emprisonment, probation, parole violation is a serious subject as much as lgbt and rehabilitation and the way MS. Love touch upon it and educate in such of a short setting was very well researched and explained. Just hoped we knew more as to what happened to Josephina and this Eric that Mei was talking to as well as their lives after. What bothers me in this story was the proclamation or the understanding that Mei didn't have a boyfriend or never had one and that now Haji is back its as if she was holding it down for him? Is that it? At least we know that with all of these characters being presented to us, we know we are in for a treat with several other stories coming out.
This was a cute story, a little bit too short but it was so well redistributed that you still felt fulfilled and understood the story very well.
Mei (couldn't know what ethnicity she is) but strong, intelligent and independent woman has everything going for her.
Haji, handsome and strong as well but a little bit too unsecure. Handsome and all around complete package with issues to overcome.
This story was a touchy story for me as it touches a subject extremely dear and close to me, emprisonment, probation, parole violation is a serious subject as much as lgbt and rehabilitation and the way MS. Love touch upon it and educate in such of a short setting was very well researched and explained. Just hoped we knew more as to what happened to Josephina and this Eric that Mei was talking to as well as their lives after. What bothers me in this story was the proclamation or the understanding that Mei didn't have a boyfriend or never had one and that now Haji is back its as if she was holding it down for him? Is that it? At least we know that with all of these characters being presented to us, we know we are in for a treat with several other stories coming out.
May 30, 2023
The Struggle With Straddle
“Straddling His Soul: The Memphis Hoodlum Standalone was a good read. However, I’m perplexed with the circumstances surrounding Haji’s initial incarceration & his legal representation. He was a young (juvenile) first time offender. …dang, there no mercy AAs even in fiction 🤦🏾♀️‼️Someone should have advocated on his behalf as a juvenile? Consequently, he wouldn’t be faced with the potential of “three strikes” rule. Meanwhile, ideally both Haji & Mei should tell their story from another state if not country. …The judicial system and or retry program isn’t designed for a former felon’s success. Clearly, it’s a constant struggle (for Haji), straddling the dichotomy of two worlds.
“Straddling His Soul: The Memphis Hoodlum Standalone was a good read. However, I’m perplexed with the circumstances surrounding Haji’s initial incarceration & his legal representation. He was a young (juvenile) first time offender. …dang, there no mercy AAs even in fiction 🤦🏾♀️‼️Someone should have advocated on his behalf as a juvenile? Consequently, he wouldn’t be faced with the potential of “three strikes” rule. Meanwhile, ideally both Haji & Mei should tell their story from another state if not country. …The judicial system and or retry program isn’t designed for a former felon’s success. Clearly, it’s a constant struggle (for Haji), straddling the dichotomy of two worlds.
December 28, 2019
Another Headliner!
I'm never disappointed when I choose a book written by B. Love. You give us black love at it's finest...even when it's difficult. Mei and Haji are proof that real love knows no boundaries; time, distance or lack of communication. It is refreshing to see a queen build up her king and he turns right around and does the same for his queen. And we must always remember that we are NOT a product of our environment. As always, thanks Love💙😘
I'm never disappointed when I choose a book written by B. Love. You give us black love at it's finest...even when it's difficult. Mei and Haji are proof that real love knows no boundaries; time, distance or lack of communication. It is refreshing to see a queen build up her king and he turns right around and does the same for his queen. And we must always remember that we are NOT a product of our environment. As always, thanks Love💙😘
April 6, 2020
Bomb book
Can’t say it enough, you bring fire after fire. Love mei and haji love story. Sad that Seth had to almost die for him to see what everyone was trying to get him to see. Can’t wait for Montana book .
Can’t say it enough, you bring fire after fire. Love mei and haji love story. Sad that Seth had to almost die for him to see what everyone was trying to get him to see. Can’t wait for Montana book .
February 19, 2020
Awesome book. Kept me on my toes.
April 1, 2020
Loved Haji and Mei
Loved this read from beginning to end. Haji and Mei love was beautiful. Their love was so deep I felt it in my soul. Great storyline and I loved the characters
Loved this read from beginning to end. Haji and Mei love was beautiful. Their love was so deep I felt it in my soul. Great storyline and I loved the characters
May 3, 2020
Love !
Amazing book ! Nothing like hood love !! Like always one of my favorite authors. She never lets me down !
Amazing book ! Nothing like hood love !! Like always one of my favorite authors. She never lets me down !
November 22, 2022
Straddling His Soul
Never compromising on values, beliefs, morals, and self worth is what propelled Haji and Mei to overcome the many obstacles placed before and to them…
Never compromising on values, beliefs, morals, and self worth is what propelled Haji and Mei to overcome the many obstacles placed before and to them…
February 25, 2023
Whew
This was a tough one to get through. It shows the extreme steps women take to support their men. A good read, but Mei irritated my entire being lol
This was a tough one to get through. It shows the extreme steps women take to support their men. A good read, but Mei irritated my entire being lol
December 5, 2019
Good Love
This was a good old fashioned romance from the beginning to the very end. I loved the fact that the hero of this story came right in and took charge and keep going full steam. I loved that the writer gives us a look at when you have love and someone in your corner,you can win. This was good writing and just an all around enjoyable story.
This was a good old fashioned romance from the beginning to the very end. I loved the fact that the hero of this story came right in and took charge and keep going full steam. I loved that the writer gives us a look at when you have love and someone in your corner,you can win. This was good writing and just an all around enjoyable story.
August 4, 2019
Dope ish, must read
Mei loved Hija for the man he was. But also for the potential that she saw in him she was willing to go to war with him for him ! That's some real love Hija love Mei but felt obligated to be everything for everyone while sacrificing what he needed the most , But baby when he finally saw what he needed to do the rest was history ! The beast we know as B.love gave us another holy hoodlum that had enough swag and gansta to keep us reading and enough love to make us hottt while loving his Boss Chick ! B keep giving us these Dope characters and books and I'll keep reading and supporting ! #readyforthenextbook
Mei loved Hija for the man he was. But also for the potential that she saw in him she was willing to go to war with him for him ! That's some real love Hija love Mei but felt obligated to be everything for everyone while sacrificing what he needed the most , But baby when he finally saw what he needed to do the rest was history ! The beast we know as B.love gave us another holy hoodlum that had enough swag and gansta to keep us reading and enough love to make us hottt while loving his Boss Chick ! B keep giving us these Dope characters and books and I'll keep reading and supporting ! #readyforthenextbook
August 9, 2019
Haji and Mei are soulmates in more ways than one.
This story makes you believe in giving the right one a second chance to love you the right way. Mei and Haji's connection touched my soul in so many ways. They are the ones, along with Montana, to break the generational curse that was upon their families. That scene where they were at that farm because their souls basically sent them there not knowing that the other was there had me in true love dovey mode. I believe that Jose and josefina will try to ruin their happiness still. I love their ambitions and how they pour into each other in multiple ways. I cannot wait for Montana and Anastasia's story!!
This story makes you believe in giving the right one a second chance to love you the right way. Mei and Haji's connection touched my soul in so many ways. They are the ones, along with Montana, to break the generational curse that was upon their families. That scene where they were at that farm because their souls basically sent them there not knowing that the other was there had me in true love dovey mode. I believe that Jose and josefina will try to ruin their happiness still. I love their ambitions and how they pour into each other in multiple ways. I cannot wait for Montana and Anastasia's story!!
August 27, 2019
Mei and Haji
I love these two because of the way the loved each other. You never know how someone will turn out after doing jail time no matter the length but when the live you share is genuine nothing can really change how you feel. Now Haji definitely had the devil and angel on his shoulders but he figured out the importance of putting yourself first. Mei was sweet but savage and I really like that. She knows what needs to be done in order to get the outcome you want. I loved that she loved Haji through his tough time. Thoroughly enjoyed this book but B. never disappoints!!!
I love these two because of the way the loved each other. You never know how someone will turn out after doing jail time no matter the length but when the live you share is genuine nothing can really change how you feel. Now Haji definitely had the devil and angel on his shoulders but he figured out the importance of putting yourself first. Mei was sweet but savage and I really like that. She knows what needs to be done in order to get the outcome you want. I loved that she loved Haji through his tough time. Thoroughly enjoyed this book but B. never disappoints!!!
August 5, 2019
That's love!
The love shared by Mei I and Haji was just as strong 12 years later, as it was in high school when they were separated. As hard as Me I tried to pretend she didn't want Hajj anymore, her heart wouldn't be denied. She used her Love to keep him in the right path, and put of trouble. (Well, as best she could) Haji came full throttle and ready to fight, to get Mei back. The love he had for her was genuine and powerful. Another great one! Looking forward to Montana's story.
The love shared by Mei I and Haji was just as strong 12 years later, as it was in high school when they were separated. As hard as Me I tried to pretend she didn't want Hajj anymore, her heart wouldn't be denied. She used her Love to keep him in the right path, and put of trouble. (Well, as best she could) Haji came full throttle and ready to fight, to get Mei back. The love he had for her was genuine and powerful. Another great one! Looking forward to Montana's story.
August 12, 2019
Mei was BAE lol she was supportive, but didn't take Haji's mess and pushed him to be better than he was. She showed him that he had more life to live and he couldn't just settle for what he use to be
I loved Haji & Mei's interactions with one another.
Haji came back to claim what was his and Mei tried to deny him, but she's not crazy lol
I was glad to see Haji grow TF up tho because baby boy was stressin me and Mei out lol
Loved my boos!
Noooowwww I'm waiting on Tana & Ana !
I loved Haji & Mei's interactions with one another.
Haji came back to claim what was his and Mei tried to deny him, but she's not crazy lol
I was glad to see Haji grow TF up tho because baby boy was stressin me and Mei out lol
Loved my boos!
Noooowwww I'm waiting on Tana & Ana !
Read
August 4, 2019Binded by Love
Hija & Mei truly loved each other. They were bound together even when they were separated.She was willing to chance her livelihood to make sure he was treated fairly. Hija was willing to risk it all for his cousin. Once he realized his cousin didn’t care about himself enough, he decided to let looking out for him go.
Once he decided to put himself and Mei first everything fell into place. He then became the man Mei knew he could be.
Hija & Mei truly loved each other. They were bound together even when they were separated.She was willing to chance her livelihood to make sure he was treated fairly. Hija was willing to risk it all for his cousin. Once he realized his cousin didn’t care about himself enough, he decided to let looking out for him go.
Once he decided to put himself and Mei first everything fell into place. He then became the man Mei knew he could be.
August 8, 2019
Great read
This was a great read and I can't wait to read about Anastasia and Montana. Haji was bae but I hated his he almost let Seth get him into some mess because he wanted to be loyal to family. Unfortunately, this is common in a lot of families. Mei was a God send for Haji because she truly wanted the best for him and wouldn't settle for less. I can't wait to read more from this crew.
This was a great read and I can't wait to read about Anastasia and Montana. Haji was bae but I hated his he almost let Seth get him into some mess because he wanted to be loyal to family. Unfortunately, this is common in a lot of families. Mei was a God send for Haji because she truly wanted the best for him and wouldn't settle for less. I can't wait to read more from this crew.
August 11, 2019
Haji/Mei
It's crazy when you do time and get out and try to do right. All negative thing and people try to pull you back in. Life is more then being in these street. And I happy he had Mei to get him to understand before it was to late. Sometimes you got to hit rock bottom or a near death experience before you get some sense to do right(seth). They both got do over. But sometimes you don't get that lucky. So do right while you can!!
It's crazy when you do time and get out and try to do right. All negative thing and people try to pull you back in. Life is more then being in these street. And I happy he had Mei to get him to understand before it was to late. Sometimes you got to hit rock bottom or a near death experience before you get some sense to do right(seth). They both got do over. But sometimes you don't get that lucky. So do right while you can!!
August 12, 2019
Haji and Mei
I loved them as a couple. I really loved how Mei loved Haji but didn’t allow him to continue making excuses for how he was choosing to live. Then Seth, I have a cousin who continues to blame everyone else but her ass for her problems. When shit hits the fan you know who you are, so true!!! Mei has to allow Haji to come on his own terms; otherwise, he would still be running around with Seth. Looking forward to Montana and Ana story.
I loved them as a couple. I really loved how Mei loved Haji but didn’t allow him to continue making excuses for how he was choosing to live. Then Seth, I have a cousin who continues to blame everyone else but her ass for her problems. When shit hits the fan you know who you are, so true!!! Mei has to allow Haji to come on his own terms; otherwise, he would still be running around with Seth. Looking forward to Montana and Ana story.
October 2, 2019
Mei and Haji
When the book started, I didn’t know how I felt about Mei. But for the first time in a long time, I connected more with the female lead than the male lead. She was so strong, but didn’t mind showing her weakness to the ones she loved. When Haji made that final decision, I was able to breathe a sigh of relief, because he had me just as heartbroken as Mei. As always, this was a well-written, amazing story.
When the book started, I didn’t know how I felt about Mei. But for the first time in a long time, I connected more with the female lead than the male lead. She was so strong, but didn’t mind showing her weakness to the ones she loved. When Haji made that final decision, I was able to breathe a sigh of relief, because he had me just as heartbroken as Mei. As always, this was a well-written, amazing story.
August 3, 2019
Why
Why am I not surprised that this man here had me wanting to know more about him? Had me curious about him? Had me looking for him? B this is all your fault lol. You always do this to me. These men will have you looking for them in the daylight with a flashlight ok! I can’t wait for Tony Montana’s story.
Why am I not surprised that this man here had me wanting to know more about him? Had me curious about him? Had me looking for him? B this is all your fault lol. You always do this to me. These men will have you looking for them in the daylight with a flashlight ok! I can’t wait for Tony Montana’s story.
August 4, 2019
Another great read
Haji and Mei... So glad they got a second chance at love. Life will test you the minute to say you want to change, but when something or someone is important it'll show. Can't wait to see what happens next in their lives. B Love never disappoints. This was a great book.
Haji and Mei... So glad they got a second chance at love. Life will test you the minute to say you want to change, but when something or someone is important it'll show. Can't wait to see what happens next in their lives. B Love never disappoints. This was a great book.
August 5, 2019
Amazing Read
Haji and Mai were definitely meant to be together. She made him work to get her back, but he knew it was worth it. It's bad that it took a near death experience to get Seth to realize the streets were not for him. Can't wait to read about Anastasia and hopefully, Montana!
Haji and Mai were definitely meant to be together. She made him work to get her back, but he knew it was worth it. It's bad that it took a near death experience to get Seth to realize the streets were not for him. Can't wait to read about Anastasia and hopefully, Montana!
August 6, 2019
Love This Book
I love your writing. Haij and Mei had a love that lasted for over 12 years. I love Mei for trying to get Haij to stay in the straight and narrow path. I am glad Haij finally understand that you have to know when to let the things you cannot change go. Very good book. Can't wait for Montana and Anastasia story.
I love your writing. Haij and Mei had a love that lasted for over 12 years. I love Mei for trying to get Haij to stay in the straight and narrow path. I am glad Haij finally understand that you have to know when to let the things you cannot change go. Very good book. Can't wait for Montana and Anastasia story.
August 6, 2019
Love conquer all ❤
What a great read!! Haji needed a woman like Mei because she kept him in line and also gave him the courage and motivation he needed to want and do better for his life. The love they shared was unbreakable and oh so filling, even though they had that 12 year hiatus their love still came out on top. Can't wait to read about Montana and Anastasia
What a great read!! Haji needed a woman like Mei because she kept him in line and also gave him the courage and motivation he needed to want and do better for his life. The love they shared was unbreakable and oh so filling, even though they had that 12 year hiatus their love still came out on top. Can't wait to read about Montana and Anastasia
September 22, 2019
Amazing
I'm happy this turned out the way that it did. I almost gave up on Haji. He was mad annoying with the back and forth. Happy that Mei didn't, not completely anyway. I'm so glad there are a lot of your books that I haven't read yet cuzcim nor interested in Montana's story, I despise male strippers. Anyhow, good story...on to the next.
I'm happy this turned out the way that it did. I almost gave up on Haji. He was mad annoying with the back and forth. Happy that Mei didn't, not completely anyway. I'm so glad there are a lot of your books that I haven't read yet cuzcim nor interested in Montana's story, I despise male strippers. Anyhow, good story...on to the next.
August 7, 2019
Shared Love for Each Other
How much Mei believed in Haji was amazing, she believed in him when he didn’t even believe. This was a great book, loved the storyline and characters. Awesome!
How much Mei believed in Haji was amazing, she believed in him when he didn’t even believe. This was a great book, loved the storyline and characters. Awesome!
August 8, 2019
Thug love at it's finest
Mai and Haji are obviously made for each other. The way they balance and nurture each other's soul, gives me Life! Love and praying for you B. Love. I know the sequel is going. To be just as passionate.
Mai and Haji are obviously made for each other. The way they balance and nurture each other's soul, gives me Life! Love and praying for you B. Love. I know the sequel is going. To be just as passionate.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews