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Thug, Baller, Hitta, Goon

A Baller Has Feelings Too: Stephan & Mariah's Hood Love Story

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Stephan's life was permanently altered after a tragic accident left him in a coma for weeks. Having once been one of the greatest players in professional basketball, Stephan is now putting all of his time into his family's empire. The fast life that comes with wealth quickly bores Stephan, and he began longing for something more. Little does he know, all of his desires will be met once he bumps into the beautiful and alluring Mariah. Mariah Hill is left deeply scarred after losing her only sister. Her sister’s death not only shattered her heart but added more responsibilities to her plate. With her sister gone Mariah now has to care for her newborn nephew, Xavier. Just as she’s picking up the pieces of her life, she runs into someone she never expected to see again- Stephan Smith. Stephan never forgot the beautiful spirit he only knew by voice. They connected from the very moment he laid eyes on her. Stephan is the breath of fresh air Mariah craves and she’s his solace. In each other they find love, but their perfect love story is threatened when someone from his past refuses to let go. Will Stephan be able to have what he has always wanted with Mariah? Or will his past and her present collide, burning everything down?

212 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 8, 2020

167 people are currently reading
141 people want to read

About the author

M. Monique

28 books366 followers

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5 stars
711 (72%)
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202 (20%)
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53 (5%)
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7 (<1%)
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2 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
Profile Image for Rashawnda.
1,391 reviews1,113 followers
June 13, 2022
Baby!!!! This Smith Family is not to be played with!! Jeez!!! M. Monique put her foot in this! Let me first say that Sophia is the real MVP!! Mama is not for play! She keeps everybody in line and is so fly while doing it! Stephan and Mariah had amazing chemistry! I loved how understanding Steph was while she navigated fears and reservations regarding their relationship as a result of past trauma! Steph rode hard af for her and Xavier! Chauncey, his parents, Megan and Lyric were trash omg!!! M. Monique knows how to hit you with some unexpected twists and turns!! 😮🫣. I loved how she wrote the internal thoughts of the women🤣! I’m definitely looking forward to Dallas and Chloe’s story because he’s been smooth yet goon af throughout the series thus far!
Profile Image for Dahyana.
695 reviews85 followers
June 26, 2022
Ya'll, I have a question. Would you ladies have been okay if your man pursued you the way Shaun or Stephan "pursued" their girls? These brothers are something else. They both terrify me and warm my heart at the same time. I thought Stephan was the lesser savage of the two, but he actually really wasn't. All he saw was family and those close to him. These brothers lived by one rule. If you follow this one rule, then you are okay in their book: Don't fůćk with their family and loved ones and their money. 

Stephan was in love with Mariah before he even laid eyes on her.. No one's going to change my mind about that. Mariah tried to stay away, but she couldn't resist. Not for long. Exactly what she feared, happened. She fell for Steph. I wish I could say the betrayal was less in this installment but, it wasn't. Everybody was double crossing everybody. No one can be trusted. Speaking of "no one can be trusted," let's talk about Megan for a second. She was out of her rabbit ašs, pea size mind….that's all I'll say about her. I was not expecting the supporting characters to be this crazy. From Debra Young, to Lyric 🤯🤯.

This book was packed, few errors here and there, but I enjoyed it. Now, I need a break before I continue with this series. Something light and breezy to balance out the savagery.
Profile Image for Annette Williams.
1,191 reviews413 followers
September 29, 2021
Chiiiiiiile, this hood soap opera is getting good! A Baller Has Feelings Too was something else! This book was full of drama, betrayal, and a plot twist I did not see coming. Stephan, Shaun, and the rest of the crew are not to be played with. Everyone knows this but, there are still a handful that try to test their gangster and have to find out the hard way. The story picks up seven months later after Stephan was shot and he’s recovered completely and back on the court shooting hoops. While out and about with Shaun, he runs into the angel with the beautiful voice. His description; not mine. Stephan is instantly smitten with Mariah and pretty much stakes his claim right there in the baby store. Mariah is a little more hesitant to start anything romantic. She’s raising her infant nephew after she loses her sister to domestic violence so, at the moment, she’s leery of men. Stephan is not a man you say no to. He pretty much wore down Mariah’s defenses and bulldozed his way into her and Xavier’s life. Once she stopped fighting her feelings and finally accepted her attraction to Stephan, it was on and poppin’. Their love story was truly sweet. I just loved how Stephan doted on Xavier like he was his son. Hell, the whole Smith family loved them some Xavier. That damn Megan was some kind of crazy. Her crazy was on a whole different level. Now, mind you, when she and Stephan were together, she was cheating on that man left and right. But, the minute he breaks up with her and moves on with Mariah, this heffa turns into a stalking fatal attraction. Keep in mind, Megan started dating Stephan’s teammate when he broke up with her. Girl, bye! Then, all kind of secret tea comes out about her past that we didn’t know about in book one. Whew chile! That Megan was Cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs! I don’t know who I disliked more in this book. Crazy azz Megan, backstabbin’ azz Lyric, or that disrespectful azz Debra. Nah, scratch that. I definitely disliked Lyric’s azz more. She was just so damn disloyal. I wanted that heffa to meet me in the streets. But, that’s okay because they all got what they deserved. I have to give it to the author. She really stepped up with this book. The N-word was not used as excessively and the writing was 100% better. This was the M. Monique I’ve come to love. I never thought I would get caught up in this kind of series but, baby I am hooked! Now, let me slide on over to A Hitta Has Feelings Too so, I can see what Dallas and Chloe are about.
Profile Image for Jaliesa.
183 reviews11 followers
March 31, 2024
This family man!!!! ☺️☺️
Profile Image for Eri.
66 reviews4 followers
December 6, 2024
I thought that Gatah was crazy, Stephan is something else. Matter of fact the whole family is CRAZY and don’t play. LOL Everyone who died definitely deserved it. This was a good & quick read.
Profile Image for Lizzy Clark.
829 reviews29 followers
April 1, 2021
I'll take Stephan fine sexy ass any day😜😍

Yaaasss Queen M Monique!!! The beauty has given us another suspenseful hood love story. Bay-be, that Smith family does not play and ain't got no problem painting the town red until they've taken care of anybody that has threatened their peace.

I loved Stephan & Mariah💕. These two journey to love was not easy. With his psychotic ex still in denial to her sisters in-laws trying to take Xavier from her, wooo child. He was definitely determined to make her his for life, and didn't care what it took to make it happen. The way he loved on her and Xavier #priceless💕

That damn Meghan been irritating my soul since Gata's & Yaya story🙄. I Ain't never wanted a book character killed as bad as I wanted her gone🤷🏽. When that bih attached Mariah with that knife because as she said "she took her man" then stood over her and told her don't worry I got yo baby😡. Det. Frye killing her pissed me off cause I really wanted Mariah to stomp a mud while in her, then shoot her.

It was great catching up with Gata & Yaya crazy selves. Mr. & Mrs. Smith are goals IDGAF! The love, fire and desire they still have for each other, I love it. Stephan definitely kept his promise to protect Mariah & Xavier and body anybody that has ever caused them any harm.

Can't wait to read Dallas & Chloe story💕
Profile Image for Melanin Book Lover.
269 reviews26 followers
April 14, 2022
There was a lot going on in this book

It’s been seven months since Stephan woke up from his coma after being shot, while in his coma he heard the sweetest voice of the nurse humming and praying over him, this voice is what Stephan believed kept him alive the problem is when he woke up the voice was gone. Mariahs life was turned upside down one day when she got the devastating news that her sisters husband killed her then killed himself. Now Mariah is left with a broken heart, questions she will never get answers to, and her sisters newborn to raise as her own.

Whew poor Mariah had such a tough life, sis needed a break from all the trauma and Stephan definitely took a huge load off Mariah’s shoulders. The way Stephan took to Xaviar was too cute, even the family took to Xaviar as if he was apart of the family when they met him. Stephan was definitely aggressive like his twin brother Shaun but it scared Mariah with all the trauma she went through. I loved how Stephan remained himself while also approaching Mariahs concerns with caution to show her that he would never hurt her. I enjoyed all the twists and turns Monique gives us to hold her readers interests. I’m definitely interest in reading more on this Detective Nitalia.
Profile Image for Book junkie&#x1f48b;.
531 reviews17 followers
February 1, 2021
Another 5 ⭐️ read

I’ve been reading the about the Smith Family and have yet to be disappointed. I don’t even know where to begin. Megan was bat💩crazy. Didn’t expect what happened to Mariah sister to be so freakin twisted 😳 Chauncey’s mom was a piece of work. I mean it’s so much😕 I’m glad that Mariah had Stephan and his family. These men are definitely in a league of their own🥰
Profile Image for Tina.
957 reviews156 followers
March 7, 2024
4.5 🥰😍😜☠️🫣

Check Content Warnings

Trope: Black Love, no 3rd act breakup, guy falls 1st, caretaking, large found family

Enjoyment: 4.5 ⭐

Character development: 3.5 ⭐

Emotional: 2.5 ⭐

Sweet: 3⭐

Romance: 3 ⭐

Heat\steam: 2⭐

Intrigue: 4 ⭐

Action: 3⭐️

Violence: 4 ⭐️

Story\plot: 4 ⭐

World Building: 4⭐

Enjoy!!!
Profile Image for Salene Whyte (thee_book_connoisseur_).
418 reviews3 followers
January 4, 2024
Steph + Mariah
M. Monique's 'A Baller Has Feelings Too' unfolds a gripping narrative centered around Stephan, a once-renowned basketball player whose life takes an unexpected turn after a life-altering accident. As he navigates the complexities of his family's empire, the story delves into the emptiness that accompanies wealth and the longing for something more meaningful.

The introduction of Mariah, a character scarred by loss and burdened with unexpected responsibilities, adds a layer of emotional depth to the plot. The author masterfully weaves their connection, portraying a beautiful synergy that transcends past encounters. Stephan becomes the breath of fresh air in Mariah's life, offering solace in the midst of her challenges.

The setting becomes a crucial backdrop, illustrating the stark contrast between the fast-paced, wealthy lifestyle and the genuine, heartfelt connection that develops between Stephan and Mariah. The plot twist, involving someone from Stephan's past, introduces a compelling conflict that tests the resilience of their burgeoning love.

As the story unfolds, the impact of the setting, plot, and twists resonates, creating a narrative that explores themes of love, loss, and the relentless pursuit of happiness. The intricate details of the characters' lives and their evolving relationships are meticulously crafted, drawing readers into a world where passion and past demons collide.

In 'A Baller Has Feelings Too,' M. Monique skillfully blends romance, drama, and suspense, offering readers a profound exploration of human emotions and the enduring power of love in the face of adversity.
918 reviews
April 28, 2021
Woosa these Smith Men is wow I’m feigning. I love me some Stephan and Gatah. Those men as alpha as they come with lots of love to give.

Everyone thinks Gatah is the crazy twin, but they ain’t meet Stephan whose crazier than Gatah. Stephan love him some Mariah and Xavier. The entire Smith Family is awesome and they opened their arms to Mariah and X.

Mariah went through the tragic loss of her sister and became and insta mom. She took care of X like he came out her womb. This is just love.

Megan that girl is a loony bin along with all the traitors and greedy folks. They all get what they deserved.

Mariah had some trust issues due to her upbringing, but she’s working through it. All in all things good with her and Stephan.

Waiting for Dallas story because I know he will have a lot to say. All these men are fiiine.
Profile Image for BetweentheCoversLiterary .
1,511 reviews32 followers
May 12, 2021
Loved it!!

Yass... I love them Smith’s brothers and the whole gang because they were everything. I’m was devastated for what Mariah’s sister had to go through at the hands of someone who was supposed to love her. Lawd this book definitely had a lot of triggers but the subject matter was done tastefully and not overbearing. Mariah and Xavier I wanted to just love and dote on them both I’m glad they had Stephan and his entire family because they deserved all that amazing family bonding and love. I loved this book. Monique is definitely becoming a fast favorite and I can’t wait to experience more of her works
Profile Image for Cris Criss.
460 reviews4 followers
May 16, 2024
Jumping up and down!!!

Let me tell you!!! I’m so excited they got Meghan’s no good h*e ssa!!! I was so angry finishing Gatah and Yaya’s book and this heffa was still out there but MM, GIRL YOU GOT ME GOOD! Baby the way I was screaming and kicking my feet all through this here book. Never a dull moment. The only part I kinda was like (that’s weird) is the spicy scene after Mariah left the hospital. BECAUSE I KNOW SHE WAS HURT TRYING TO GET LAID AND BE STITCHED UP. Like make it make sense. Everything else was on point!!! Five freaking ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️s!!!! Now let me go stalk Dallas and Chloe. Because even though I read this in one day…the night is still young. 😜
Profile Image for Toya  Davis-Stokley.
2,549 reviews99 followers
April 18, 2020
Whew, that was some drama for your aSS! Loved Stephan's bossy, in your face, but lovable attitude. That Smith family was not be messed with, and they loved their people something fierce! Mariah, really went through it with her family issues, and then having to care for Xavier. The way Gatah and Stephan took to that baby, was adorable; just like he was blood. That damn Megan was a pyscho for real, for real! How did no one know she was that off her rocker! Enjoyed the ride with this one, and hope there is more to come; with these couples. Especially Dallas and Chloe! Good job. 👍👍👍
Profile Image for Alexis&#x1f49b;.
181 reviews
April 2, 2024
Awwwwwww🥹😍

So far in the family Stephan is my favorite Then Shaun but I’m sure the order will probably change once I get to the end 😂 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

This was so good 😊 I really enjoyed it…this story wasn’t predictable at all, some parts I can say were a given but still some of the stuff you just like 😮 😮 okayyyyy 😂 😂

I try to do my review without giving away many spoilers because I know how that can be but READ IT 😂 😂 especially if you read Gatah and Yaya story you just gotta read this next


Over all⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for JeaNida Luckie-Weatherall.
2,996 reviews47 followers
April 9, 2021
Great Read

It was so good catching up with these characters and I couldn't put it down. Enjoyed the storyline and these characters. The Smith family, definitely doesn't play about their love ones. Stephan, is exactly what Mariah needed and then some. I loved the way he treated Mariah and Xavier. I'm so glad that Meagan finally got dealt with, but I wanted Mariah to stomp her behind. I'm looking forward to Dallas and Chloe story. Great job M. Monique.
Profile Image for stephanie Chery.
238 reviews9 followers
June 30, 2021
Wow

Gatah is still book bae. On my gosh, he is so funny. Yaya and Gatah's relationship is so sweet and funny. They were made for each other. Now for Stephen and Mariah are cute together. They both had obstacles they had to overcome. I’m happy at the end all the lies and secrets came out, and everyone got what they deserved, and that is KARMA. I want to read about Dallas now 😂!!!!!
Profile Image for Tracy - loves to read .
1,013 reviews
January 12, 2022
all in my feelings

And I thought Gatah was crazy! Stephan had him beat but it was all good. He was dirty and clean, dibbled and dabbled, and above all else discreet when it came to his money. He had a good heart and needed a good chick. Mariah fit the bill. Their connection was unmatched and beautiful. He accepted her and that came with her even a juicy baby! She’d been through hell and deserved love and devotion.
Great read!
867 reviews5 followers
January 19, 2022
Stephan and Mariah

Sooo these make me smile but it's because their connection was unmatched. He knew he loved her while in a coma but needed that time and space to get everything together. I liked that Steph never gave up on Mariah but her feelings were warranted due her past. Mariah wasn't taking any shit and I love how all the ladies can fight lol. Cause baby those ass whooping put on Megan and Lyric were epic. On to Dallas and Chole!@
2,670 reviews23 followers
February 21, 2022
So So Much Feeling!

This has got to be up there as one of the best out of this series so far. I mean every story in the series as just been on point and this one falls right in the same category. The writer lets us know from the gate,that this is going to be one heck of a ride.The pace is steady and the chemistry is just spot,which means the writing is flowing effortlessly. This was just good solid storytelling and on top of that it was enjoyable.
1,273 reviews
October 29, 2022
KR

Even Second Time Around
I really like how Stephan didn't play no games when it came to Mariah & Xavier so sweet how there bond became so strong love poured out for them now they're very happy great ending

All the snakes got dealt with Step Ex's was crazy for real and Young's where do beginning Her husband should have been left now he's Dead because of his wife and Son didn't miss what he had until she was dead and gone ...I'm looking for more from this author
Profile Image for Patrice Latimore.
614 reviews
March 29, 2024
This update on Stephen and Mariah gave what it needed to give. The way the drama and action played out in this book let me know that M. Monique ain’t to be played with. Those Smith brothers and their parents was not for the games when it came to that family. Everybody involved with wrongdoing to them got dealt with in the worst way. I am so invested in this series even though they are all standalones. I can’t wait to read about Dallas.
131 reviews2 followers
March 25, 2021
😜🔥🔥🔥🔥

What can I say? Once again, another hit💃🏽💃🏽. So glad that Megan got her just rewards😉 even though it was too quick😩. Enjoyed seeing the fam again. Loved the HEA.💃🏽💃🏽. I’m all in with this series so you should get it😉. Enjoy👍🏽👍🏽. Thanks Ms. Monique for another one😉. Be blessed🥳🥳
Profile Image for Geri.
1,187 reviews6 followers
November 4, 2021
Sizzling hot but sweet story

Stephen and Mariah both deserved to fall for each other. They were both healing for different reasons and seemed to gravitate to each other as if they were homing devices for each other. Loved the reunion with YaYa and Gatah and I am looking forward to Chloe and Dallas story.
Profile Image for ReadnliftwithShar.
1,854 reviews
December 26, 2021
🔥

This author will make sure there is suspense, hot love making scenes, drama, and a ton of curveballs but it always makes sense in the end. I was so interested in Stephan and Mariah’s story because in a way, Mariah saved Stephen before he even knew she existed. I enjoyed this one!
425 reviews2 followers
January 23, 2022
Hood love!

I never thought Stephan got down like that! He sure loves him some Mariah. Megs had too much coco puffs and went cuckoo!! Girlfriend is crazy! Love the Smith family and the bond they share! How about them Youngs!!! They nuts! If you are a fan of urban romance then you will love this joint.
208 reviews2 followers
March 25, 2022
Whew, I am in love❤

Believable, funny, passionate, and loyal. Even the mama and daddy's are coming through 🤗


Book bae x 6........Gatah, Stephan, DALLAS, Gray, Blu, KINGSTON 😮😍 DIS TOO MUCH! Let me see what Houston's young self is talking about.

Even reading out of order, still gives me life. Now, this is how you write a book and keep us coming back. ❤
Profile Image for Cat E..
Author 3 books64 followers
June 21, 2022
🥰🥰🥰

Awww! Stephan and Mariah were too cute. The way he loved on her and Xavier is everything. She got a King and he got his Angel. It was a lot of shiesty people around. I can’t believe the Young family! That mama was crazy and in the end everyone who had a hand in Stacey downfall got what they deserved.
785 reviews3 followers
September 26, 2022
Mariah bad Stephan

She met him when he was injured in her hospital. She prayed over the stranger as she went about her work as his nurse. He met her again in a store while he was out with his cousin. He loved her unconditionally through her pain! He went to war for her and their son! Great read!
Profile Image for Jackie Brown.
556 reviews2 followers
May 28, 2024
oooh chil 👊🏾👏🏾mane!

Loved it!!! Stephan was a force to be reckoned with n his brother Gatah n Dallas! OMGoodness! They were team family all the way! Megan n her crazy family were evil: the young’s were trifling sadly on some parts but revenge was handled . M. Monique got me hooked fo sho!👊🏾💜
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews

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