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Best You Ever Had

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Your past doesn’t define your present.

That’s a mantra that Colson Crook lives by and for very good reason. The odds were stacked against him from his birth to a single mother in a low-income area of Port Arthur, Texas. He’d succumbed to the odds on more than one occasion, but now he is living the life he is destined to live. Trying to get other people to forget about his past seems to be the problem, especially his family. However, over the years, he’s learned to deal with their negativity. His life is almost complete, except in one area. Love. It had eluded him for years and he’s accepted that. But one fateful night, his eyes land on the woman that could change his relationship status forever.

Sky Jones is a successful teacher that wants to make a difference in the lives of her students. However, dealing with the attitudes of the teenagers she teaches, constantly increases in difficulty and threatens to make her forget her reason for pursuing that career in the first place. Deciding to take a short distance girls’ trip for spring break gives her the reprieve she needs, but it also gives her something else… an undeniable attraction to an older man that she can’t ignore.

Colson and Sky start on a fast-paced trek and feel that despite the warnings of the people closest to them, they want to pursue something meaningful. Will they continue to throw caution to the wind or will one of them decide to take heed to those warnings and dismantle what they’ve built?

183 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 19, 2020

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About the author

Monica Walters

141 books1,003 followers
Starting with poetry, writing has always been a constant in Monica's life. The interest began in her teenage years, being in love for the first time. Her love for writing has only progressed. Song lyrics and poetry led to short stories, then one day in her down time, a short story became a 56k word novel. It has been non-stop since then. Being a wife and mother, has only added to the joys of Monica's life. Attaining a BS in Sociology, helping her better understand people and their behaviors, has only helped her become a better writer, understanding characters and their complex personalities. Romance of all types has been her passion, and she plans to continue honing her skills in that genre.

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5 stars
341 (72%)
4 stars
91 (19%)
3 stars
34 (7%)
2 stars
3 (<1%)
1 star
3 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
Profile Image for Shades N Pages.
1,037 reviews35 followers
June 14, 2020
3.5 ⭐️’s

Colsen re-invented himself after three years of incarceration. While on a business trip in Galveston, he meets and is instantly blown away by High School Math teacher Skye.

I honestly didn’t like Colsen when I first started this book. His thought process(outside of business) was immature . He appeared to be superficial, judgemental and exhibited contradictory behavior. However, I applauded him for rebuilding himself. Plus,his caring and protective nature definitely won me over. The love and care he exhibited for the women in his life was evident in this book. His methods were somewhat unorthodox, but they worked. Skye is a plus size beauty who shows up for everyone else but herself. Meeting Colson challenged her to make decisions to place herself first. They had an instant connection with steamy sex scenes that burned up the pages. Colsen knew what he wanted, went after it and tolerated no games. I really liked these two together. They complimented and supported one another. The relationship developed quickly but I could tell what they felt for each other was genuinely real.

This story had an interesting storyline, interesting supporting characters but my struggle came with one of the themes addressed. Sky’s friend Nikki was assaulted. Even though the assault was horrific, I felt let down because the author neglected to explore the layers of Skye and Nikki’s friendship. Nikki was a toxic friend and she was never held accountable for her actions. Telling Skye she didn’t mention the rape because she was too busy with Colsen was manipulative. These two topics should have been addressed separately and Skye shouldn’t be manipulated for finding happiness. I also felt the story arc of Vals drug addiction was well written. We were able to see a real-life view of the mental and emotional turmoil endured by families as they struggle to encourage their love one to seek help.

Overall, I really enjoyed Colsen and Sky’s story. The fact that it’s an age-gap romance helped too. This story captivated me and I didn’t want to put the book down. I love how Monica writes flawed characters and then allows them to redeem themselves. Both characters deserved a second chance to grow and thrive. In the end love won.
Profile Image for DeNae Sheree.
1,108 reviews20 followers
March 24, 2020
This book is fire.

I had been in a bit of a book slump for the past week and half due to outside stressors. I knew the only author who could fix it was Monica Walters and she just so happened to be dropping a new book.

Best you ever had definitely gets 5 stars. I’m a lover of an age gap and Monica wrote it to perfection. Colston and Sky were perfectly imperfect for each other. I loved everything about this story. How they met, the instant connection and how he loved Sky so much. Monica is the Queen of a well written feel good story. Monica has become one of my top 5 favorite authors.
Profile Image for Kami Holt.
798 reviews56 followers
March 24, 2020
First off, Monica Is A Freak!💦 I had to stop and pause during a couple of those scenes and gets some water ! Whew Chile! I loved this story! One thing I love about Monica's books is that she adds elements of Forgiveness and Change. Colson being able to forgive Val was major and definitely hard. Love is a powerful emotion
Profile Image for Toya  Davis-Stokley.
2,743 reviews117 followers
March 23, 2020
Although this was different from what we are used to from Miss Monica, it was still enjoyable. Colson was a cocky a$$ man, but that is what you loved about him. He was mature, experienced and knew what he wanted. Love had never been on his radar, but one look at Sky, and it was game on! Sky, was a sweet, down to earth school teacher,too shy to approach the sexy man without a little help. Once they made the initial connection, she was a bit hesitant, but something about him made her want to know more. Their relationship grew quickly, and their compatibility was off the charts! I felt for them both as they went through challenges with friends and family. Val needed her a$$ whooped for putting her momma in that position! I was pissed at Sky for letting doubt seep in from her brother and Nikki, when Colson had done nothing but up front, honest, and good to her. But, their love would not be denied. Another good read Miss Lady!
1,482 reviews2 followers
March 23, 2020
Colson makes me want to go out and get me an older man. He had already lived his life he already did everything that he wanted. Colson wanted someone to match his fly I think that him and Sky made a great couple even though she was younger. Sky needed someone like Colson he taught her how to be loved and not to accept anything less than what you deserve. Colson never let his past define him. I did not like it when Sky call herself breaking up with Colson. Colstogon sister Val I have no words for her .Weslyn had some nerve and so did Nicky. But this was so explosive I'm glad that Colson and Sky stayed together.
Profile Image for Melvina Locue Wilson.
39 reviews3 followers
April 17, 2023
Unconditional Love

This book was amazing! When men see the woman that is meant for them, they usually know it on site. This was true for Colson! From the moment he laid eyes on Sky, he knew he wanted her. He wanted to get to know her, date her, love her and marry her. Despite circumstances trying to sabotage their relationship, they made it through and got their happily ever after.
Profile Image for Micaiah.
Author 4 books19 followers
March 25, 2020
I loved Sky and Colton. Colton was a daddy, who knew exactly what he wanted in a woman and what he brought to the table. He learned from the mistakes of his youth and built upon them. Sky had to learn to take a risk in love and she hit the jack pot! At first I was looking at Nikki and Weslan side eyed, but I was glad they got in the right page in the end. Monica Walters it was another great story!
222 reviews1 follower
March 23, 2020
Amazing! I loved it! I'm not really a fan of age gap love but damn I forgot his age several times! A man who knew how to treat his woman and knew how to handle his business! ❤🔥
Profile Image for Mica Robinson.
174 reviews6 followers
March 23, 2020
Colson is definitely book bae material. Successful, aged and not up for any games. He knows what he wants and Sky is who he wants.
265 reviews
March 24, 2020
Through the good, bad & ugly Colson & Sky was able to weather the storm. Colson is book bae'. Monica hits a home run again. 🔥🔥
Profile Image for martha fountain.
845 reviews20 followers
May 19, 2020
This was so grown and sexy! Talk about some challenges but love prevailed. Colson is my new book bae.
Profile Image for Q. Moore.
1,008 reviews42 followers
January 3, 2022
Age is only a number!

Mrs. Walters has done it again this was an excellent read. Colson and Sky's story was quite inspirational. First, I want to say age is nothing but a number. The way Colson is described in this book you knew he was a sexy well kept healthy man. He was described as looking much younger than his years. He also overcame his past and accomplished his dreams to be a successful African American male. He owned multiple businesses and was a provider. Sky was his soulmate and it did not matter her age. She was his rib and she was going to give him the family he always wanted.

This story was quite inspirational in more than one way because Sky pushed through as a teacher to make a difference in a child's life. She did not even have to work but was determined to be an educator. Colson's life was just an inspirational from start to finish. He took care of his mother and his sister. He used his "dirty" money to invest in his future. He did not give up and was living his life in his fifties which is an inspiration to anyone. He says to never give up on your dreams no matter what age.

Yes, I most definitely recommend this book. Download and enjoy!
Profile Image for Jite.
1,375 reviews77 followers
February 14, 2023
3.5 Dark But Sweet Age Gap Romance Stars


At its heart, this was a sweet instalove age gap romance between Colton, a former drug kingpin turned legit business mogul post-incarceration, and Sky, a reserved, high school math teacher who’s fast burning out till she meets him on vacation. In the midst of what could have been a sweet and straightforward romance between Colton and Sky, there is a lot of family and friendship drama and brokenness as no one seems to want to see them together. This had heavy themes of addiction, abuse and sexual assault, so definitely approach with caution if you need to. For me, my favourite part was about the second chances and how anyone can remake their future no matter how low their past. I did find Colton a little sus and while I do not doubt that he and Sky were ultimately in love, I could never be sure if things started because he was just on the look out for a younger woman who could still have his babies as opposed to someone closer to his own age. Overall, it was a compelling story and another wildly dramatic and oh-so-good from my binge of this author’s backlist.
Profile Image for Crystal Luckey.
771 reviews31 followers
March 29, 2020
After meeting at a bar one night Colson and Sky attraction was undeniable. Colson told her he wanted to get to know her more, but Sky was reluctant. After her BFF Nikki pushed her to call him, she finally did and they took off. They clicked and whenever they weren't together they missed each other. Colson made time for Sky, but he also had things in his past he needed to share. Sky wasnt sure they would work because of her age, but after not seeing him for weeks because she felt they needed to slow down, she changed her mind.
This story showed how when you meet the one you supposed to be with, it will move fast. Colson and Sky were so much in love and it showed. They wanted to be each others presence at all time and couldn't get enough. I love a great love story and this was one. I couldn't put this book door and wanted more!!!
Profile Image for Shanelle.
1,536 reviews23 followers
March 26, 2020
COLSON AND SKY ❤

They say age aint nothing but a number and it sure isn't when it comes to Colson and Sky. The sparks fly immediately for these two and didn't stop not one bit as the physical attraction and sexual tension rise to the highest level on the love meter. I loved Colson's character. He had the clean cut image on the outside but tucked away was that bad boy ready to tear ish up if need be. Sky and Colson were perfect for each other because they were straight forward with what they wanted and they weren't going to let anyone stop that. I love how Mrs Walters puts her characters together, you can't help but root for a positive outcome and this is another book that does not disappoint when it comes to love.
Profile Image for Verlana Munn.
2,124 reviews40 followers
April 14, 2023
Don't Count The Silver Hair Out!

Monica, good read. I think Colson is just smooth. My thoughts were he had been through some stuff that made him the man he became. Sky was very mature in some ways , in other ways she had to learn to not care about others judgement of how she lived her life. Nikki and Weslan really had some selfish ways. Nikki went through some tragic event and I get it, but she went about it the wrong way.
Val, had so much drama but finally she's better. Weslan, Nikki , Colson and Sky went through some growing pains and ended up all on the same page. Great Read🤗🤗🤗🤗
Profile Image for JBucky.
488 reviews33 followers
May 20, 2023
👏🏾👏🏾 Monica can write a story about a princess and a frog 🐸 & I’m going to read it lol. I’m a sucker for a good love story & Colson & Sky had the perfect love story to me! The age gap was huge, with him being 51 & her just turning 30 but what the heart wants the heart wants! Colson wasn’t one to be played with either, former drug lord turned businessman the only thing left to do was find someone to share his life with.! That man went through a lot including losing his mother at the hands of his sister, he deserved love no matter the age! I may be a bit biased, but this book was so enjoyable for me!
Profile Image for Cre8tive Dreamz .
1,967 reviews11 followers
January 17, 2025
Colson and Sky, Love Does Not Have Age Requirements

The age gap romance always gives me the feels, but Sky was stressing my nerves out!!!…I love how Colin gave her all things she had to look fwd to!!!…
That man put both his feet down and let it be known that he is too old to be playing the back and forth or worried about what someone else think about him or who decide to love!!!…
I truly loved everything about this story, but loss of momma broke my heart because Val was doing way too much!!!…
Val was truly blessed with forgiving brother because I would have buried her the same day we buried momma!!!…
15 reviews1 follower
September 3, 2020
The BEST I EVER Read this year!!

This was really a good read. I enjoyed Colson and Sky story with the urban feel, wasn't too ghetto, just enough street with a lot of love. Colson knew who he loved and wasnt trying to play games because he lived life and knew what he wanted. Sky made a mistake allowing people to control her love life, wasn't going let age difference stop her. She wanted her own love and happiness and was willing to fight for it. I really enjoy this read. Will most def be adding this author to my list and following on Amazon!!
64 reviews
April 28, 2023
When you know what you want....

Colson had experienced some trials n tribulations in life and gotten to the point where it was time to live... knowing exactly what he was missing he saw that thing in Sky. Sky thought she was in some adult relaxation and fun bumped into her forever. Regardless of what other people think, when it comes to relationships the two people involved is what really matters. Sometimes you have to go against the grain and risk being the winner... Good Read! My kinda love story.
Profile Image for NubianJoí .
2,589 reviews13 followers
July 18, 2024
Port Arthur Connect

3.5 ⭐️’sHmmmm🤔, Sky & Colson’s (Nikki & Weslan too🥴) journey to a HEA was interesting⁉️ More so, “Best You Ever Had” although a good story was inundated with confusing if not unnecessary information that wasn't germane to the central plot. …what was the purpose of fellow teachers Karma, Niecy & Alex on Spring Break with Nikki & Sky? Weslan’s a kingpin/Port Arthur Connect & Nikki (Sky’s best friend) hasn’t divulged her brother is heavy in the game? 🤔 “Best You Ever Had” wasn’t a bad read, the story just wasn’t a cohesive storyline🤷🏾‍♀️.
Profile Image for Mrs Tee Booktique.
977 reviews15 followers
April 1, 2020
Good read, I love when a man takes advantage of his second chance with his life. Colson transitioned being a boss in the drug game to be a successful entrepreneur. He was in a place where he would recognize wife material when he saw her. Sky was not as mature as I expected a 29 year old woman to be. She was too sheltered and passive to have lived the life described for her. Older man young woman is a cool plot and this one delivered.
Profile Image for Karen.
1,000 reviews1 follower
April 23, 2020
Colson Crook was a drug dealer back in the day in Port Arthur, Texas. Colson served his time for his crime. Colson opened legal businesses so he can have a good life. His mom and sister would not allow him to forget his past. Colson laid his eyes on Sky Jones who was a teacher on Spring Break with her friends. Sky also was attracted to Colson but was afraid due to his age. Sky and Colson started a relationship had they had a few people against the relationship. Good read.
1,631 reviews12 followers
May 29, 2020
Loved It

This is little different from my usual style of reading. Loved Colson and Sky. Colson was street smart, whereas Sky had no knowledge of that style of life. Colson was several years older than Sky but the way they loved each other was off the charts. This story dealt with drugs, it also touched on the things people do to get those drugs. This is the second book I have read by this author she is becoming one my favorite authors.
426 reviews2 followers
August 2, 2020
Definitely was!

Colson is the man! I am jealous of Sky getting all that loving from that alpha male! Entertaining read! I was hooked from start to finish. Wes had me looking at him sideways. Can't believe he is all that! Nikki needs a slap trying to blame Sky for what happened to her. Jeremy got what the duck gets and Val got that last chance. Still shock at Weslan!
Happy that Sky ignored the haters and love that man! Age ain't nothing but a number!
Profile Image for *Ebony I*.
1,515 reviews180 followers
August 23, 2020
Age ain't nothing but a number

3.5 stars...Colson was a boss in the streets during his young life. After getting out of prison he turned his life around, but missed out on family and love. At 51 he was ready to settle down. Sky was almost 30 and was looking for stability in a relationship. They had an immediate connection and things were moving fast. Sky and her family disagreed and it caused some issues in their relationship. I was invested in their relationship, but the supporting characters and situations were questionable. The estranged relationship he had with his mom was dragged on and because of the man he was it seemed like it could have been handled better.
148 reviews1 follower
February 7, 2022
The Best to the End

I liked the narrative so much in the story. Love is so unpredictable and who knows when it will happen. Meeting during Spring Break what state as lust turned in to deep feelings, love. The will always he drama but it make the relationship solid in the end. Definitely a good read, would recommend to my girlfriends and reread it myself again, it was that good. Monica Walters has done it again, love her and she never disappoints me!
Profile Image for Jackie Brown.
612 reviews2 followers
September 10, 2022
Mature love!

Wow! I absolutely adored this book! Colson was true OG, but with new purpose! instantly he fell for Sky and she returned that as well. Story moved quickly n didn't have drama drama! Colson knew exactly who he was n what he wanted! Colson didn't play... His sister Val so glad things finally came together, but the cost of her finally getting it together , sadden circumstances. Great read!
736 reviews
April 14, 2023
Vickie J

I don't know where my antennas was at... I thought I had read this book but I guess not. You were right Colson was no joke he came with the big dic. energy and man I loved that, poor Sky bless her heart didn't see it coming. Cole kept it real and let her know he was too old for games. His sister and mom had me going for a while I was like sweet Jesus and Nikki and Westlan I'm glad their secrets were revealed cause I was ready to pop. Great Reading Monica
15 reviews
June 27, 2020
Powerful

This is a love conquers all novel! Everything works out just fine for all parties involved. For a minute I thought the author would leave us void with a tragic cliffhanger, as a lot of writers do when the main characters are trying to walk away from a life of drug dealing, but what a relief to know we have closure.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews