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She Softened Up The Hood In Him #1
The One Who Stole My Heart
Grief is said to be the final act of love. For Sarai Simmons, that act became her reality five years ago, when she lost a man that was her protector, her love, and most of all, her sanctuary. Sarai convinced herself that she wouldn’t be able to love another man again. Now, ready to put her traumatic past behind her, Sarai decides to get a fresh start in Los Angeles, determined to make a name for herself and achieve all her goals. However, her fresh start quickly takes a turn for the worst when, one unexpected night, she is held at gunpoint by LA’s most infamous and finest hood king.Benny Watkins is known for three his power in the streets, his talent as the city’s hottest music producer, and his irresistible looks. He’s a man fazed by nothing and no one. Alongside his uncle, he dominates the streets with an iron fist. Benny is a man that no one likes to mess with because they know how crazy he is. When Benny and Sarai’s worlds collide, he isn’t impressed to find her trespassing on his property. So lifting a Glock to her head wasn’t a problem for him at first... until she captured his soul with only her beautiful eyes.Benny and Sarai’s chemistry is unmatched. Despite his cold, abrasive nature, Sarai finds herself smitten by this handsome stranger. But still convinced that she can never love a man again, she tries to forget about him. However, forgetting him becomes easier said than done when Benny seems to be at every place she turns, and in spite of his personal baggage, Benny seems to want the scarred beauty just as bad. Benny’s never been one for commitment, but could Sarai be the one to finally change his stubborn ways?This is a tale dripping with love, passion, but most of all, secrets. Secrets so powerful they could ruin everything. Could Benny be the one to show Sarai a love like no other, or will Sarai remain convinced that she can never love a man that much again?
234 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2020
About the author
Miss Jenesequa
63 books538 followersMiss Jenesequa’s romance novels are known for their powerful and convincing storylines filled with love, drama, and passion. If you’re eager to explore unique and captivating stories, she’s the indie author for you.
For more information about Jen and her books:
https://www.missjenesequa.com/
For more information about Jen and her books:
https://www.missjenesequa.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
January 8, 2022
Great start…
This was a good read. I don’t really care for the names Rueben aka Benny…or Jaylens nickname. They’re so outdated for someone like Beeny, because he’s definitely Bae!!!
The whole situation with Luana I was happy he got rid of her for some reason I didn’t trust her at all. And now she’s some how fucking on Jaylen, and I don’t like it. He’s being so damn stupid, he has so much at stake and willing to risk it all for Luana a thief. Kenza, she got me good but just like Jenade said don’t trust her and she was absolutely right because she is up to no good. I just hope the guys find out in time. Damn this is a sticky situation Benny is in with Sarai revelation of Montana. I hope his secret doesn’t come back and ruin what they have because I like them together.
This was a good read. I don’t really care for the names Rueben aka Benny…or Jaylens nickname. They’re so outdated for someone like Beeny, because he’s definitely Bae!!!
The whole situation with Luana I was happy he got rid of her for some reason I didn’t trust her at all. And now she’s some how fucking on Jaylen, and I don’t like it. He’s being so damn stupid, he has so much at stake and willing to risk it all for Luana a thief. Kenza, she got me good but just like Jenade said don’t trust her and she was absolutely right because she is up to no good. I just hope the guys find out in time. Damn this is a sticky situation Benny is in with Sarai revelation of Montana. I hope his secret doesn’t come back and ruin what they have because I like them together.
October 27, 2025
I liked it but..
I love books with strong blk men getting money etc. But I am struggling with a few plot issues here. I HATE when they make it seem like all these street smart men are taken down basically by their d*cks. Akeel, Zeus and Benny ... So they so smart and dumb too? Jaylen..... He so gullible he don't check to see how Benny and ol girl fell off so quick? The fact that Sarai can't see how shady Kenzie is, throws me also.
Women's intuition is stronger than that, and we not chasing broads for friendship, especially if she's a hater. She should have checked her for telling her business, not beg for friendship. And a dispensary doesn't do thorough background checks? But I can't wait to read the next book
I love books with strong blk men getting money etc. But I am struggling with a few plot issues here. I HATE when they make it seem like all these street smart men are taken down basically by their d*cks. Akeel, Zeus and Benny ... So they so smart and dumb too? Jaylen..... He so gullible he don't check to see how Benny and ol girl fell off so quick? The fact that Sarai can't see how shady Kenzie is, throws me also.
Women's intuition is stronger than that, and we not chasing broads for friendship, especially if she's a hater. She should have checked her for telling her business, not beg for friendship. And a dispensary doesn't do thorough background checks? But I can't wait to read the next book
October 11, 2020
What a book..
First off , love the book.
I’m all for new love and sudden romance and whatnot. And I like Benny and Sarai together, I really do. Buttttt I feel like you should be upfront and honest with her. Don’t wait to long to reveal the truth and the relationship end up dead.
Now on to kenza and Daren and Cairo, they need to get dealt with immediately, like yesterday. I figured kenza was an opp when she kept bashing Sarai for showing interest in Benny. And Akeel seem like a really sweet guy and you running game on him.
Now the situation with lu and jaylen is iffy. Yeah they started messing with each other AFTER her and Benny was done, over, dead. So I see nothing wrong with them having dealings. Now should you see if he has and issue with y’all being together, yeah . Get the hoefacts from him about ol girl.
First off , love the book.
I’m all for new love and sudden romance and whatnot. And I like Benny and Sarai together, I really do. Buttttt I feel like you should be upfront and honest with her. Don’t wait to long to reveal the truth and the relationship end up dead.
Now on to kenza and Daren and Cairo, they need to get dealt with immediately, like yesterday. I figured kenza was an opp when she kept bashing Sarai for showing interest in Benny. And Akeel seem like a really sweet guy and you running game on him.
Now the situation with lu and jaylen is iffy. Yeah they started messing with each other AFTER her and Benny was done, over, dead. So I see nothing wrong with them having dealings. Now should you see if he has and issue with y’all being together, yeah . Get the hoefacts from him about ol girl.
January 16, 2025
🔥🔥🔥🔥
Sarai is such a warm hearted person and after the two men that she loved dearly now gone she picks up wanting to spread her wings and expand her talent. Now Kenza I knew she was a snake someone that can't be trusted; she basically told Sarai when she got promoted that she was in there, I also think she wanted Benny instead of AK but when they find out what she has done, what he did to Lu was nothing. What Lu is doing with Jaylen is just her trying to sink her claws into someone else who is up coming and rising as well as maybe a hidden agenda trying to get back at Benny can't wait for part 2
Sarai is such a warm hearted person and after the two men that she loved dearly now gone she picks up wanting to spread her wings and expand her talent. Now Kenza I knew she was a snake someone that can't be trusted; she basically told Sarai when she got promoted that she was in there, I also think she wanted Benny instead of AK but when they find out what she has done, what he did to Lu was nothing. What Lu is doing with Jaylen is just her trying to sink her claws into someone else who is up coming and rising as well as maybe a hidden agenda trying to get back at Benny can't wait for part 2
June 11, 2020
Wow! So you just gone leave us hanging like this lol. This book is definitely good but very descriptive which is not necessarily needed. Sarai came to LA to start over but fell in love with Benny. She is feeling him and opening up to him but I wonder what is going to happen when she learns the truth about Montana. Boy when AK finds out Kenza is part of the robbery he gone snap. I knew something was off with her. Jaylen messing with Luana is shocking. She gone steal from him but also cause him and Benny to fall out. I can’t wait to see how everything play out in the next installment.
August 25, 2020
Good book!!!!
Looks like Sarai is gonna end up broken hearted again if she finds out what Benny did,and her friend was right about kenza all alone She a whole snake.....and Jaylen missing with Luana thieving ass I hope she don't mess him around......drama drama drama hopefully every thing works out for everyone and they were out the snakes without being hurt....good book on to part 2 💙
Looks like Sarai is gonna end up broken hearted again if she finds out what Benny did,and her friend was right about kenza all alone She a whole snake.....and Jaylen missing with Luana thieving ass I hope she don't mess him around......drama drama drama hopefully every thing works out for everyone and they were out the snakes without being hurt....good book on to part 2 💙
August 26, 2020
Yes
In a little mixed...I love 💘Benny for Sarai and her relationship with her cousin Jay. The plot I guess I haven't figures out all the angles yet... I figured out Kenza but don't get why? I'm am also not sure what is going with Lu being with Jay or Benny being the killer of Montana...I did enjoy the story of pretty much no drama but then the end was an explosion of WTH....on to book 2
In a little mixed...I love 💘Benny for Sarai and her relationship with her cousin Jay. The plot I guess I haven't figures out all the angles yet... I figured out Kenza but don't get why? I'm am also not sure what is going with Lu being with Jay or Benny being the killer of Montana...I did enjoy the story of pretty much no drama but then the end was an explosion of WTH....on to book 2
March 16, 2025
Thief Of Hearts
Sarai Simmons had suffered tragedy in her short existence. The love of her life had been murdered, and she shut down and mourned him for five years. Finally deciding to do something with her life, she uprooted herself from North Carolina and moved to Los Angeles to fulfill her dream of being a professional nail technician. Shortly after her arrival, she met Benny, who put a gun to her head and stole her heart.
❤️
Sarai Simmons had suffered tragedy in her short existence. The love of her life had been murdered, and she shut down and mourned him for five years. Finally deciding to do something with her life, she uprooted herself from North Carolina and moved to Los Angeles to fulfill her dream of being a professional nail technician. Shortly after her arrival, she met Benny, who put a gun to her head and stole her heart.
❤️
May 14, 2025
it was great until the end i did have a bad feeling about kenza and was right. Why the hell is Jaylen fucking on that whatever her name is i feel like benny would have told him about what happened with her and how she was stealing money from them. I honestly believe that Jaylen wouldn’t be on her because she was with his homie if i’m honest. Also why did it have to be Benny who killed her first love sigh the whole ending has me fucked up 😭
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2020
Great Read
I’m definitely not disappointed. Ms. Jen never disappoint. Her writing is phenomenal and I always enjoy her work. I love the character Benny most in this book because I love a man that takes charge in a relationship even with the little crazy. I can’t wait for book 2 and see how his relationship with Sarai plays out and to see what happens to the fake friends.
I’m definitely not disappointed. Ms. Jen never disappoint. Her writing is phenomenal and I always enjoy her work. I love the character Benny most in this book because I love a man that takes charge in a relationship even with the little crazy. I can’t wait for book 2 and see how his relationship with Sarai plays out and to see what happens to the fake friends.
June 3, 2020
Well that was unexpected
It started off a bit slow, but when it picked up it really picked up. I'm really looking forward to seeing just how Benny tries to get himself out of this one. And, really Jaylen? Come on man, I had higher hopes for you. Like Jenade , I didn't trust Kenza either and I was right. I'm just wondering when Akeel is going to wake up. We shall see.
It started off a bit slow, but when it picked up it really picked up. I'm really looking forward to seeing just how Benny tries to get himself out of this one. And, really Jaylen? Come on man, I had higher hopes for you. Like Jenade , I didn't trust Kenza either and I was right. I'm just wondering when Akeel is going to wake up. We shall see.
June 15, 2020
Never disappoint! Welcome back jen!
Wow! What a tangled web! Another great read from Miss Jen, keep up the good work. I had always like the chemistry between Benny and Sarai. Hope it last. Jaylen needs to get himself out of that situation he’s in and kenza is such a snake I knew something wasn’t right about her. On to part two!
Wow! What a tangled web! Another great read from Miss Jen, keep up the good work. I had always like the chemistry between Benny and Sarai. Hope it last. Jaylen needs to get himself out of that situation he’s in and kenza is such a snake I knew something wasn’t right about her. On to part two!
June 23, 2020
Damn
This book has taken turns that I didn’t expect. Like wtf going on with Lenny? Didn’t peg him as being a snake like he going against the code frfr.Kenza is weird asf I didn’t expect her to be phony especially since she met Lenny first. So is Lenny involved too? Hopefully part 2 explains more
This book has taken turns that I didn’t expect. Like wtf going on with Lenny? Didn’t peg him as being a snake like he going against the code frfr.Kenza is weird asf I didn’t expect her to be phony especially since she met Lenny first. So is Lenny involved too? Hopefully part 2 explains more
July 11, 2020
Great read
Damn such a great start to a new series!!! Kenza ass is a 🐍 ass hoe. Benny really killed Montana that him a aria can overcome that because that death really hurled her. I also get 🐍 vibes from Marshall ass to. I’m not reading part 2 until book 3 drops so I won’t be in my feelings lol
Damn such a great start to a new series!!! Kenza ass is a 🐍 ass hoe. Benny really killed Montana that him a aria can overcome that because that death really hurled her. I also get 🐍 vibes from Marshall ass to. I’m not reading part 2 until book 3 drops so I won’t be in my feelings lol
September 4, 2020
Fire 🔥
Where doin start. This.book was amazing. It has so many twist and turns. Sarah and Benny are goals. I love how their relationship is developing. I just hate she is going to get hurt by fake kenza. Jay is wrong for sleeping with his friend ex. When the big secret comes out. I.can't wait for part two.
Where doin start. This.book was amazing. It has so many twist and turns. Sarah and Benny are goals. I love how their relationship is developing. I just hate she is going to get hurt by fake kenza. Jay is wrong for sleeping with his friend ex. When the big secret comes out. I.can't wait for part two.
September 22, 2020
Cannot wait for the rest...
I really want to thank the author of the book. This was a great read I even enjoyed the language switch along with the translation. The interaction between the cast was on point. I laughed, I cried, i even got offended , lol!! Can't wait to finish this series. The ending of this chapter omg, cannot wait for the secrets to unfold...
I really want to thank the author of the book. This was a great read I even enjoyed the language switch along with the translation. The interaction between the cast was on point. I laughed, I cried, i even got offended , lol!! Can't wait to finish this series. The ending of this chapter omg, cannot wait for the secrets to unfold...
October 26, 2020
So Daren & Kenza huh
The way they playing it off is sickening but oh when they get caught tho... Benny done fell in love with Sarai & he was the one that broke her heart 5 years ago just wow now Jalen messing with Luana but all this mess gonna come to a head & I'm just waiting for it to pop
The way they playing it off is sickening but oh when they get caught tho... Benny done fell in love with Sarai & he was the one that broke her heart 5 years ago just wow now Jalen messing with Luana but all this mess gonna come to a head & I'm just waiting for it to pop
August 24, 2023
Shady Lies
How do you explain this past acts to the person that was affected the moat by your decision!!!...This book was beyond good and I love me some Jaylen and Benny...I hope Rai is able to understand and look pass Benny's past decisions!!!... These 2 clowns set the dispensary up to be robbed!!!...I hope Akail don't fall for her shady tail!!!...
How do you explain this past acts to the person that was affected the moat by your decision!!!...This book was beyond good and I love me some Jaylen and Benny...I hope Rai is able to understand and look pass Benny's past decisions!!!... These 2 clowns set the dispensary up to be robbed!!!...I hope Akail don't fall for her shady tail!!!...
January 11, 2025
Deep Ending
What a shocking turn of events with our star characters.
1. I was hoping that Sarai’s bestie was simply being over protective about Kenya, man was I fooled!
2.Jaylen should’ve never crossed that line.
3. Ruey, Ruey, Ruey….. I hope for the best with he and Sarai
Patiently awaiting my second dose of this book.
What a shocking turn of events with our star characters.
1. I was hoping that Sarai’s bestie was simply being over protective about Kenya, man was I fooled!
2.Jaylen should’ve never crossed that line.
3. Ruey, Ruey, Ruey….. I hope for the best with he and Sarai
Patiently awaiting my second dose of this book.
June 23, 2020
Girl you are back!
Omg! I'm loving this series so fate and I can't wait for part 2! I knew Kenza was a freaking snake, but why is she so mad at Sarai? I love Sarah and Benny together but what's going to happen once the secret about Benny comes out?
Omg! I'm loving this series so fate and I can't wait for part 2! I knew Kenza was a freaking snake, but why is she so mad at Sarai? I love Sarah and Benny together but what's going to happen once the secret about Benny comes out?
June 24, 2020
Heart stopping
This is the first book I read from this author and I must say I was/am pleasantly impressed. If I k ew it was in three parts I would have waited until they were all released but now I’m so into it I have to grab part 2
This is the first book I read from this author and I must say I was/am pleasantly impressed. If I k ew it was in three parts I would have waited until they were all released but now I’m so into it I have to grab part 2
July 3, 2020
Wow
Listen here I did not see that end coming smh and that dam n Kenya ughhh I pray everybody pulls it together before it's too late and Benny and rai I hope can pull thru geesh! You never disappoint huni on to book 2!
Listen here I did not see that end coming smh and that dam n Kenya ughhh I pray everybody pulls it together before it's too late and Benny and rai I hope can pull thru geesh! You never disappoint huni on to book 2!
July 4, 2020
Good story
Benny us a hot head but i think his past and upbringing is the reason he is that way. Sarai has loved and lost and I love them together hopefully this cliff hanger doesn’t pull them apart. I knew It was something about Kenza! Can’t wait to read book 2
Benny us a hot head but i think his past and upbringing is the reason he is that way. Sarai has loved and lost and I love them together hopefully this cliff hanger doesn’t pull them apart. I knew It was something about Kenza! Can’t wait to read book 2
August 15, 2020
Decent first book
Pretty decent read. Although I am not a plan of the pov being used I am enjoying the steoyyline. I knew Kenza was going to be a problem since the pool party. But what I didn't see coming was who Jay has gotten entangled with. Can't wait to see what happens next.
Pretty decent read. Although I am not a plan of the pov being used I am enjoying the steoyyline. I knew Kenza was going to be a problem since the pool party. But what I didn't see coming was who Jay has gotten entangled with. Can't wait to see what happens next.
August 19, 2020
The Softer Side of the Hood
I knew their was a reason I didn’t like Kenya! For Zeus, AK and Benny to be so good about their business how come they can’t figure out Kenza and Daren? Sarai is really a sweetheart. Jaylen better leave Luana alone.
I knew their was a reason I didn’t like Kenya! For Zeus, AK and Benny to be so good about their business how come they can’t figure out Kenza and Daren? Sarai is really a sweetheart. Jaylen better leave Luana alone.
October 20, 2020
Whew
Lisstteennn, whyyyy? Why Kenya? Why Benny!?! What the freak! I actually like her now she gotta go. Sad face. This isn't fare but I also know she better stop doing my boo Rai like that. Tuh
Lisstteennn, whyyyy? Why Kenya? Why Benny!?! What the freak! I actually like her now she gotta go. Sad face. This isn't fare but I also know she better stop doing my boo Rai like that. Tuh
December 2, 2020
Phenomental
I knew Kenza was not to be trusted she was to saved to become a grower I hope Benny and Shair make it A K tried but have in to the devil Kenza she set them ul good can't believe Jalyan sleeping with Launa that was a shocker
I knew Kenza was not to be trusted she was to saved to become a grower I hope Benny and Shair make it A K tried but have in to the devil Kenza she set them ul good can't believe Jalyan sleeping with Launa that was a shocker
March 18, 2021
🤯
I mean the end if book one really got me stuck. This isn’t my first time reading this author but each of her books always leave me stuck.I think I know what’s going to happen and she turn my world upside down. Good read.
I mean the end if book one really got me stuck. This isn’t my first time reading this author but each of her books always leave me stuck.I think I know what’s going to happen and she turn my world upside down. Good read.
March 31, 2021
Neutral
I am kind of disappointed with the story . I wasn’t really into it , it’s slow very slow with not too much of action . The last few chapters are filled with drama , but it’s coming way too late . I am not sure if I will read book 2
I am kind of disappointed with the story . I wasn’t really into it , it’s slow very slow with not too much of action . The last few chapters are filled with drama , but it’s coming way too late . I am not sure if I will read book 2
April 27, 2021
Enjoyable Read
I have really enjoyed the first book in this series. The odds are against Benny and Sarai but I hope they win in the end. There is a lot of treachery in this books. I can’t wait to read book two.
I have really enjoyed the first book in this series. The odds are against Benny and Sarai but I hope they win in the end. There is a lot of treachery in this books. I can’t wait to read book two.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews