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Rich, Humble, And Heartless: A South Side Love Story
“When I leave, act like I’m dead because I’ll never mess with any of you again. Y'all no longer have a momma.”
From the rage that littered her eyes to the fists balled at her sides, it was obvious that I’d hit a nerve. I knew it. What I’d done was intentional, but I was unprepared for what was to come afterward. This wasn’t a chick off the streets who had no ties to me. No, the woman in front of me was supposed to be my mother. However, she never acted like it. Her responsibilities were mine. I’d learned that long ago. But that wasn’t the way things were supposed to be. I needed her to be a mother, needed her to teach me, needed her to care. But I would never get either one of those things, and I was fine with that.
At sixteen-years-old, I, Akira Alexander, am left to fend for my siblings and me all on my own. And although I think I know everything, I don’t know a thing, but I’m determined to make sure we never go without. Young and naïve, those are two words that describe me to the fullest. Being that I’m motherless, I have no one to tell me right from wrong or give me the game, so I have to learn through trial and error. And boy, do I have a story to tell. In my world, money is the answer to all my prayers, but I soon learn that not all gifts or saviors come from God. Sometimes the devil comes in the form of a man to offer you a world of riches, and a lifetime of pain.
Who looks after the little black girl who’s lost and all on her own with responsibilities piled high to the sky? Who is going to love her? Who will teach her all that she needs to know? Who defends her? Who cherishes her and teaches her how to love? Will those closest to her forgive when she makes mistakes, or will she lose them for the sake of that old mighty dollar?
From the rage that littered her eyes to the fists balled at her sides, it was obvious that I’d hit a nerve. I knew it. What I’d done was intentional, but I was unprepared for what was to come afterward. This wasn’t a chick off the streets who had no ties to me. No, the woman in front of me was supposed to be my mother. However, she never acted like it. Her responsibilities were mine. I’d learned that long ago. But that wasn’t the way things were supposed to be. I needed her to be a mother, needed her to teach me, needed her to care. But I would never get either one of those things, and I was fine with that.
At sixteen-years-old, I, Akira Alexander, am left to fend for my siblings and me all on my own. And although I think I know everything, I don’t know a thing, but I’m determined to make sure we never go without. Young and naïve, those are two words that describe me to the fullest. Being that I’m motherless, I have no one to tell me right from wrong or give me the game, so I have to learn through trial and error. And boy, do I have a story to tell. In my world, money is the answer to all my prayers, but I soon learn that not all gifts or saviors come from God. Sometimes the devil comes in the form of a man to offer you a world of riches, and a lifetime of pain.
Who looks after the little black girl who’s lost and all on her own with responsibilities piled high to the sky? Who is going to love her? Who will teach her all that she needs to know? Who defends her? Who cherishes her and teaches her how to love? Will those closest to her forgive when she makes mistakes, or will she lose them for the sake of that old mighty dollar?
439 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 15, 2019
336 people are currently reading
56 people want to read
About the author
Mesha Mesh
85 books349 followersMesha Mesh, a Dallas native, made her writing debut in 2015 with "His Truth Your Nightmare" and has since penned several bestsellers, including "Banging My Billionaire Boss" and "The Don's Virgin Possession." UBAWA recognized her as one of the Top 100 Authors, and she was honored with a literary award from AAMBC and The Gem.
In 2017, Mesha became CEO of Allure Me Publications (now Mesha Mesh Presents), where she not only publishes her own works but also champions talented authors from around the world. Her love for books has taken her on many adventures, and there is more to come. Follow her on social media for more.
In 2017, Mesha became CEO of Allure Me Publications (now Mesha Mesh Presents), where she not only publishes her own works but also champions talented authors from around the world. Her love for books has taken her on many adventures, and there is more to come. Follow her on social media for more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
June 22, 2019
This sample was full of action and drama as Akira's life was definitely a roller coaster ride. Tyshell was beyond trifling. Najee was a true friend and honestly loved Akira, despite her actions. In the beginning, I thought Gadi was sincere but as I read on, I begin to loathe him. The ending was shocking and scary and has me so ready to read what happens next
June 18, 2019
YOU SOOOOOO WRONG!!!
You dead wrong for that Mesha, how you just leave us hanging like that!!!!!! And pray to God you take forever to drop the finale😫😫😫😫😫😫😫😫😫😫😫😫😫
You dead wrong for that Mesha, how you just leave us hanging like that!!!!!! And pray to God you take forever to drop the finale😫😫😫😫😫😫😫😫😫😫😫😫😫
September 18, 2019
Great Read
I expected nothing less MESHA MESH you did that one of the best reads this year the characters and story line worked real well together this story make the statement true LOVE IS A DANGEROUS GAME
I'm happy that most involved had a happy ending and I'm also wondering if Mesha could've did a spin off with her brother and sister all in all GREAT JOB looking for to the next book
I expected nothing less MESHA MESH you did that one of the best reads this year the characters and story line worked real well together this story make the statement true LOVE IS A DANGEROUS GAME
I'm happy that most involved had a happy ending and I'm also wondering if Mesha could've did a spin off with her brother and sister all in all GREAT JOB looking for to the next book
September 18, 2019
A captivating must read!
Rich Humble and Heartless takes off very fast. One click for this awesome page Turner, heart touching and humbling live story. You don't want to miss it. One click!
Rich Humble and Heartless takes off very fast. One click for this awesome page Turner, heart touching and humbling live story. You don't want to miss it. One click!
July 15, 2019
Rich humble and heartless a south side love story
Wow this is and amazing book great writing and even more amazing characters very creative and a little creepy and challenging craziness at all times it’s a winner in my book
Wow this is and amazing book great writing and even more amazing characters very creative and a little creepy and challenging craziness at all times it’s a winner in my book
June 18, 2019
Loved it
Man I can’t wait for part two to find out what happens you never disappoint this was another banger I absolutely loved this book
Man I can’t wait for part two to find out what happens you never disappoint this was another banger I absolutely loved this book
December 18, 2021
Dramatic
Buy ooh boy, this book was something else. From The beginning to The end it was drama. Tyshell was The worst kind of momma like she really walked out ooh her children. Poor Akira went through a lot just to help her family. I feel like Najee should have tried harder to keep her away from Gadi. Now that man was on a different level of crazy. Like how you hurt an innocent child just cause you learn the truth. I would have like to heard more of Nautica's and Vedo story. I kind of felt sorry for Kia cause sis was just borrowing najee. Like sis had to be a fool or just plan blind about Najee and Akira. I'm glad they finally got it together and stop playing
Buy ooh boy, this book was something else. From The beginning to The end it was drama. Tyshell was The worst kind of momma like she really walked out ooh her children. Poor Akira went through a lot just to help her family. I feel like Najee should have tried harder to keep her away from Gadi. Now that man was on a different level of crazy. Like how you hurt an innocent child just cause you learn the truth. I would have like to heard more of Nautica's and Vedo story. I kind of felt sorry for Kia cause sis was just borrowing najee. Like sis had to be a fool or just plan blind about Najee and Akira. I'm glad they finally got it together and stop playing
October 26, 2020
Unexpectedly violent
What could have been an interesting story was instead full of victim blaming, statutory r*pe, grooming, abuse, domestic violence, repetition and did I mention an extreme amount of victim blaming?
What could have been an interesting story was instead full of victim blaming, statutory r*pe, grooming, abuse, domestic violence, repetition and did I mention an extreme amount of victim blaming?
January 25, 2021
Tru love
I'm am so happy that she got her happy ending. I'm sad that she had to endure so much pain and heartache. she was kinda stupid tho. Ain't no way I would have stayed, he would have been a dead man.
I'm am so happy that she got her happy ending. I'm sad that she had to endure so much pain and heartache. she was kinda stupid tho. Ain't no way I would have stayed, he would have been a dead man.
February 28, 2021
Whew
Babyyyyyyy I’m so in love with this story! This was an awesome read I could not put it down! I’m a sucker for love so yeah this book was everything plus some! Awesome job Queen now on to the next story
Babyyyyyyy I’m so in love with this story! This was an awesome read I could not put it down! I’m a sucker for love so yeah this book was everything plus some! Awesome job Queen now on to the next story
May 7, 2022
love is blind
I enjoyed great read in the end everything works out time heal all wounds it just takes time and gadi was luni for real lol
I enjoyed great read in the end everything works out time heal all wounds it just takes time and gadi was luni for real lol
August 23, 2023
great
It was good with a lot of twist! Kept you at the edge of your seat. Waiting for part 2 to see what happens.
It was good with a lot of twist! Kept you at the edge of your seat. Waiting for part 2 to see what happens.
November 1, 2023
Good read need part 2 ASAP..
January 16, 2024
Akira
The Lead female was dumb. It didn’t make sense. How did you become so weak. Staying with a abusive partner is crazy especially when children are involved
The Lead female was dumb. It didn’t make sense. How did you become so weak. Staying with a abusive partner is crazy especially when children are involved
February 14, 2020
REALLY! WOW!!
I was loving this book up until the ending! While I do realize this was about love however, Akira did not deserve Najees love! While he was in love, love with her she was in love, love with money! All love stories doesn't have a happy ending and the girl doesn't always get the guy or vice versa. I absolutely hated the ending!!
I was loving this book up until the ending! While I do realize this was about love however, Akira did not deserve Najees love! While he was in love, love with her she was in love, love with money! All love stories doesn't have a happy ending and the girl doesn't always get the guy or vice versa. I absolutely hated the ending!!
October 16, 2019
2 Broken People
This story had me torn, Akira while young and naive. Adopted the mindset, of chasing a man with money. Following the ideals of her mother, by all accounts.
Who wasn’t even following her own advice🤨 Only for Akira to end up in the hands of a wealthy predator.
And this is where the majority of the story. Dealt with, until the big release. At some points in the story, I could tell Akira had seriously been broken down. And at one point was dealing with some post PTSD symptoms along with depression.
While, I had mixed feelings for Najee. The relationship with Kia was refreshing. I loved how she handled the situation, with the utmost class. That alone had me lowkey rooting for her. While at times, I felt sorry for Akira. I found it ironic she took the abuse for stability. However, when Tyshell beat her up in the beginning.
She quickly threw her mother out. I wished that the story would of focused on Tyshell and her kids relationship possibly mending. Also, Nautica’s potential romance. Oftentimes I found this book to be repetitive🤨 There were alot of typos, which at one point. Najee called Naija the wrong name at the hospital. And, so did Nautica when speaking to Akira. when they were going to the club.
Typos and inconsistencies are very distracting and at this point of the game. A rookie mistake, please invest in a better editor.
Overall quick read, but not compelling
This story had me torn, Akira while young and naive. Adopted the mindset, of chasing a man with money. Following the ideals of her mother, by all accounts.
Who wasn’t even following her own advice🤨 Only for Akira to end up in the hands of a wealthy predator.
And this is where the majority of the story. Dealt with, until the big release. At some points in the story, I could tell Akira had seriously been broken down. And at one point was dealing with some post PTSD symptoms along with depression.
While, I had mixed feelings for Najee. The relationship with Kia was refreshing. I loved how she handled the situation, with the utmost class. That alone had me lowkey rooting for her. While at times, I felt sorry for Akira. I found it ironic she took the abuse for stability. However, when Tyshell beat her up in the beginning.
She quickly threw her mother out. I wished that the story would of focused on Tyshell and her kids relationship possibly mending. Also, Nautica’s potential romance. Oftentimes I found this book to be repetitive🤨 There were alot of typos, which at one point. Najee called Naija the wrong name at the hospital. And, so did Nautica when speaking to Akira. when they were going to the club.
Typos and inconsistencies are very distracting and at this point of the game. A rookie mistake, please invest in a better editor.
Overall quick read, but not compelling
January 13, 2020
Great read
With a crazy ex a young girl trying to find a way out of the slums and a best friend who lived her this book took me on a emotional ride where domestic violence was concerned. Gadi for what was coming to him . I'm glad Kia s step to the side to let najee be with akira. I couldn't put the kindle down
With a crazy ex a young girl trying to find a way out of the slums and a best friend who lived her this book took me on a emotional ride where domestic violence was concerned. Gadi for what was coming to him . I'm glad Kia s step to the side to let najee be with akira. I couldn't put the kindle down
January 13, 2020
You maybe triggered!
Really enjoyed this story! It was not predictable but it does need a warning. Lots of issues that may trigger some readers. I love how Akira bosses up in the end. She had me worried that she wouldn’t get it together. I would definitely recommend this book to others.
Really enjoyed this story! It was not predictable but it does need a warning. Lots of issues that may trigger some readers. I love how Akira bosses up in the end. She had me worried that she wouldn’t get it together. I would definitely recommend this book to others.
December 2, 2019
Mesh!
Girl you know you have made your way to being one of my favs! Girl! I still can’t stand Akira though! 🤣🤣 Good Lord Najee was down for her since day one! He had every right to be mad at her! I love how he always had her back no matter what though. He truly did love her and had she just stuck by his side then she would’ve clearly seen that! Gadi went out too easy man after all he did but I’m glad the parents came together in the end. This story was so beautifully written. I love the passion, the metaphors, and how you touched on mental illness. Girl you are the bomb with a pen! I throughly enjoyed this read!
Girl you know you have made your way to being one of my favs! Girl! I still can’t stand Akira though! 🤣🤣 Good Lord Najee was down for her since day one! He had every right to be mad at her! I love how he always had her back no matter what though. He truly did love her and had she just stuck by his side then she would’ve clearly seen that! Gadi went out too easy man after all he did but I’m glad the parents came together in the end. This story was so beautifully written. I love the passion, the metaphors, and how you touched on mental illness. Girl you are the bomb with a pen! I throughly enjoyed this read!
January 8, 2020
Great story
I wish there was a part two. I loved Akira & Najee’s story. I would love to see a part two or more of this couple in the future. Also what ever happened with Vedo and Nautica? I was longing to read more on them. The ending seems as if it was rushed. But overall I loved this story.
I wish there was a part two. I loved Akira & Najee’s story. I would love to see a part two or more of this couple in the future. Also what ever happened with Vedo and Nautica? I was longing to read more on them. The ending seems as if it was rushed. But overall I loved this story.
January 9, 2020
WOW!! First time I hated the main female character.
Had to remember Akira's age and circumstances, but I was #Team Named and his love and loyalty.
Emotions ran a little different reading this story. Had no sympathy for Akira and she didn't deserve
the ending she received!!
Had to remember Akira's age and circumstances, but I was #Team Named and his love and loyalty.
Emotions ran a little different reading this story. Had no sympathy for Akira and she didn't deserve
the ending she received!!
June 22, 2019
OMG
Girlllll. This book had me like takin breaks at work and hiding in the bathroom reading. I could not get enough. Your mind is dope was fuck! Did is off the chain. I'm so glad Names eat that ass in the Gucci store. I am like in edge and will be waiting impatiently for number 2. You have a brilliant mind and I love how it works. Whirlpool is all I can say. Myyyy gawd!
Girlllll. This book had me like takin breaks at work and hiding in the bathroom reading. I could not get enough. Your mind is dope was fuck! Did is off the chain. I'm so glad Names eat that ass in the Gucci store. I am like in edge and will be waiting impatiently for number 2. You have a brilliant mind and I love how it works. Whirlpool is all I can say. Myyyy gawd!
October 22, 2019
OMGee I'm in shock
I didn't see 👀any of this coming. This book got me in my feelings. I'm mad I have to wait for the next book. For everyone who reads I highly recommend this author. You won't regret it. This is by far my favorite, although my heart literally stopped beating. I need you to rush book 2 please.
I didn't see 👀any of this coming. This book got me in my feelings. I'm mad I have to wait for the next book. For everyone who reads I highly recommend this author. You won't regret it. This is by far my favorite, although my heart literally stopped beating. I need you to rush book 2 please.
September 26, 2019
So good!!
Mesh you did your thing with this book!! Akira fit on my last nerve and that caused her to go through some much. I was hoping that Vedo and Nautica really got together, I think we need a story for them. I kinda felt bad for Kia but I wanted Akira and Najee together. Gadi deserved everything he received.
Mesh you did your thing with this book!! Akira fit on my last nerve and that caused her to go through some much. I was hoping that Vedo and Nautica really got together, I think we need a story for them. I kinda felt bad for Kia but I wanted Akira and Najee together. Gadi deserved everything he received.
June 28, 2019
Wowerz!!!
This book had me on edge! This is my first read from this author and she has won me over! Akira is so stupid!! I tried to like her, but she really need to boss up! Najee is such a good dude and at first I was wanting him with Akira, but she don’t deserve him! Wow!!! I just need more! This sample... it has me wanting more!!
This book had me on edge! This is my first read from this author and she has won me over! Akira is so stupid!! I tried to like her, but she really need to boss up! Najee is such a good dude and at first I was wanting him with Akira, but she don’t deserve him! Wow!!! I just need more! This sample... it has me wanting more!!
September 22, 2019
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
This book definitely exceeded my expectations. Although I wanted to smack Akira so many times during this story I sympathized with her. She made some mistakes but she loved her family. Najee stole my heart from the beginning. He was so loyal and ready to do anything for Akira & her family.
This book definitely exceeded my expectations. Although I wanted to smack Akira so many times during this story I sympathized with her. She made some mistakes but she loved her family. Najee stole my heart from the beginning. He was so loyal and ready to do anything for Akira & her family.
September 28, 2019
This book is everything!!!!!
I love everything about this book. I was good from begging to end I hope they unfit as momma get what’s she deserves. And that sorry ass excuse of a man that likes young girls and can’t keep his hands to himself. I’m looking forward to part 2 can’t walt
I love everything about this book. I was good from begging to end I hope they unfit as momma get what’s she deserves. And that sorry ass excuse of a man that likes young girls and can’t keep his hands to himself. I’m looking forward to part 2 can’t walt
June 19, 2019
My gawd!!!
Let me just start this by saying I was in love with Najee before the first period dried on his first line. I don’t know what to feel it’s just so much to take in. I am so glad that I read it.
Let me just start this by saying I was in love with Najee before the first period dried on his first line. I don’t know what to feel it’s just so much to take in. I am so glad that I read it.
June 19, 2019
👍👍👍👍👍
First thing first Akira's mother needs to be beat down. Akira was in a bad situation when she met Gadi. I thought he was gone be good for her but nope. He was the devil. I understood why Akira stayed with him but man I would have killed him and went with my true love Najee.
First thing first Akira's mother needs to be beat down. Akira was in a bad situation when she met Gadi. I thought he was gone be good for her but nope. He was the devil. I understood why Akira stayed with him but man I would have killed him and went with my true love Najee.
June 22, 2019
What happens next
I love how Najee love her even though she is in love with that clown I hope he don't her and that baby cause Najee gonna snap if he hurt his daughter but I can't wait to find out what happens next
I love how Najee love her even though she is in love with that clown I hope he don't her and that baby cause Najee gonna snap if he hurt his daughter but I can't wait to find out what happens next
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews