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Ruby's #2

Dinner at Sam's

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Vanessa Jackson is just trying to get her life together, not pick up a new man... and certainly not her divorce attorney. Life would be so much easier if she could divorce her ex, but Warren Jackson isn't ready to let go of the dancer he 'rescued' from a previous life.

The youngest of four brothers at Kincaid Family law, Gibson is the rebel. He's never going to do what Sylvia "The Silver Shark" wants him to do. His career might implode before he has the chance to open his dream law firm, but come hell or high water, he's going to get his newest client divorced so she can start a new life... with him.

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Published October 1, 2020

78 people are currently reading
203 people want to read

About the author

D.L. White

23 books394 followers
DL White writes romance novels that celebrate Black love across multiple series, including the Ruby's Novels, Black Diamond Bay collection, and Potter Lake Small Town Romance. Her fifteen-plus titles offer rich, nuanced relationships that center Black characters. Through The Books by DL White Bookcast, she shares her current reads and writing updates. An Atlanta-based author and Executive Administrative Assistant, White finds inspiration from lakeshores to white sand beaches. When she's not writing, you'll find her chasing the perfect Sunday brunch or enjoying a great cup of coffee.

Browse, read, and buy her work at BooksByDLWhite.com.

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5 stars
127 (44%)
4 stars
110 (38%)
3 stars
40 (14%)
2 stars
3 (1%)
1 star
4 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
Profile Image for Dahyana.
695 reviews87 followers
July 28, 2023
This started a bit slow for me, but I’m glad I pushed through cause I enjoyed Vanessa and Gibson. Gibson was sexy, educated, and definitely a beast in the bedroom with Vanessa. Vanessa and Warren’s marriage fell apart, and she needs a divorce. Gibson took on her case, and eventually, the lines got crossed, and these two started a thing. I was a little annoyed with Vanessa with the way she was “dealing” with Warren and how she stood in her own way while Gibson was representing her. But the story was really cute nonetheless. Gibson was so good to Vanessa and her kids. I wished I had more of them with the kids together. This read was real, it was cute and sexy and I enjoyed it. 
4.7⭐️
Profile Image for Annette Williams.
1,195 reviews418 followers
April 1, 2021
It was a little shaky there for a minute with Dinner at Sam's. When I first started listen to this book, I was pretty bored with it. But, it eventually picked up and I could start to actually get into it. Vanessa and Gibson got on my nerves. I just didn't understand why she didn't want anything from Warren's shady azz. They were together for 12 years and married for 8 years so, she more than earned her fair share of his money. But, she was insistent on wanting child support only from him. I rolled my eyes and called her all kinds of stupid throughout this entire book. Gibson wants to be a champion for the little people but, he acts like it doesn't understand it takes money to be a champion for poor folks. I completely understand why Sylvia rode his azz the way she did about his billable hours because, he wasn't bringing in any real money into their law firm. But, as much as these two worked my last nerve, I loved them as a couple. Theirs was an innocent kind of love. Gibson didn't judge Vanessa because she use to be a stripper which, is something she worried about when they finally started dating. Matter of fact, he was kind of here for it when he found out. I went into Dinner at Sam's expecting not to like it but, it turned out to be a pretty good read. The storyline moves at a pace that doesn't necessarily keep you entertained but, it keeps you interested in what's going to happen next. And, the sex scenes were a lot spicier than I was expecting. Whew chile! They definitely had me clutchin' my pearls. I'd recommend you add this book to your TBR.
Profile Image for Monica **can't read fast enough**.
1,033 reviews372 followers
February 21, 2019
Two in a row from D.L. White that I really enjoyed. If you are looking for a romance with a couple that you will root for, Gibson and Vanessa will do it for you. If you need a break from the bad boy trope and want a good guy to prevail, Dinner at Sam's is the one to pick up. Gibson is the kind of good man you would want for yourself and wish for your best girlfriend to find.

I've listened to both of these as audio books and thoroughly enjoyed them, but I believe that I am going to order physical copies. I enjoyed them that much!

Where you can find me:
•(♥).•*Monlatable Book Reviews*•.(♥)•
Twitter: @MonlatReader
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Facebook: Monica Reeds
Goodreads Group: The Black Bookcase
Profile Image for D.L. White.
Author 23 books394 followers
Read
August 11, 2020
I am the author of this novel. I hope you LOVED it and that you'll tell a friend! Don't forget to drop a good word!
Profile Image for Rellim.
1,676 reviews43 followers
March 22, 2022
This is the second book in D.L. White’s Ruby’s series. While you don’t have to listen to Brunch at Ruby’s first, they’re definitely better experienced in order.

Gibson! I loved him and thought he was exactly what Vanessa needed after everything she’s gone through with her ex. Single parent trope is one of my favs, though the kids weren’t heavily featured here. While there was a little angst between Gibson and Vanessa, most of the tension in the story came from Vanessa’s ex and Gibson’s family.

My favorite part of White’s writing is how relatable her characters are. These are everyday people dealing with typical situations. It’s honest and raw and then wrapped up in finding love at the same time. Love it.

Narration:
Sharell Palmer’s performance is terrific. She gives the characters unique voices and enhances the personalities from White’s writing. So easy to get wrapped up in this world.
Profile Image for 'The Book Queen'.
6,009 reviews111 followers
May 2, 2017
Dinner was Delish!!!

True to this authors mode of operandi; she wrote a nice compelling story about loving someone and being true to one's self.. Gibson Kincaid was part of an elite family of litigators and high powered movers and shakers. He was not a conformist. In fact, he refused to pander to the high dollar clients his mother and brother's coveted. Gibson chose to work for regular clients who could not afford the firms fee in a million years. This is how he met Vanessa Jackson. After running into him... sparks flying ,sweaty palms and pounding hearts, Gibson became her divorce attorney against his families wishes, his mother especially. Their love story covered the back and forth with Vanessa's husband who refused to divorce her, and all the troubles that eventually led to Gibson and Vanessa forming a sweet bond. A little drama was dredged up over Vanessa's previous occupation. Never fear, in the end all was forgiven and love prevailed.... Another sweet read...
6 reviews1 follower
June 9, 2017
Let me say I really enjoyed this story. I read Brunch at Ruby’s about two summers ago and loved the characters and storyline. I have to admit and DL White is one of my favorite 5 authors, so I had to follow up with Dinner at Sam’s. OMG…. This story was so refreshing. Gibson was a part of an elite family of attorneys but, he was not arrogant but humble and charming. He wants to help others and that’s how meets Vanessa. He becomes her divorce attorney and a friendship that leads to a passionate romance relationship begins. A series of events causes Vanessa to break things off with Gibson. But he swoops in like a Superman (with the “S” on his chest) and saves Vanessa from her awful ex-husband. The reader knows the HEA is coming but how it happens is how this author works her magic that makes this book a great read.
Profile Image for Deloris.
970 reviews42 followers
July 6, 2019
I really enjoyed this book, I enjoyed Vanessa and Gibson’s realistic love story . Gibbons is super !He’s a super lawyer and super lover man, I know, I wanted to be Vanessa every time he touched her . I live the chemistry when Vanessa and Gibson were in each other’s presence. The secondary characters enriched the story line , by making me laugh, or just think about the words they said. What I wanted more of? maybe more of the romance of Vanessa and Gibson, but I’m just being greedy. If you pick up this book, you’re going to enjoy it , and if you listen to the audio version , you’ll enjoy Sharell Palmer’s narration.
Profile Image for Layeshia.
379 reviews
October 22, 2018
Once again DL White tells a story of a beautiful strong black women. Doing what she asked to do to get by not making any excuses. While meeting a strong smart sexy successful black man. Also he can lay that pipe very well!! Enjoy 😊
Profile Image for Ebony Essence.
537 reviews24 followers
March 20, 2025
Now this book i liked very much.

I listened on audio via hoopla. The audio wasn’t bad. Just wish there was a male narrator.

I liked the writing and the pace in this book very much. The plot/storyline was good. Vanessa came a long way from her past. Got with someone she throught she knew and made a career change. Only for things to be flipped upside down. No matter what, she did what she had to for those girls and the life she worked towards. Yes she got on my nerves at time and it was predictable that Gibson would find out. She just wanted to start this chapter in her life asap.

Now GIBSON 🥵 was the star of the book to me. I loved everything about his character. From the way he got on his mother’s nerves, loved helping people in need, wore his heart on his sleeve, and a sexy farmer. The fact he seemed to fall first is so cute. Their spice was so good by the way. Yeah i want me a Gibson.

Lastly, i loved the families in this book. Vanessa has some really good people in her corner. Even the older lady from the club. Gibson’s bond with his brothers is beautiful. That mother could learn a thing or two from her son. A solid and enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Tami Reed.
237 reviews6 followers
May 28, 2022
Rounded up from 2.5. I was really looking forward to this book since I Loved Ruby's (5 Star). This was so flat, boring, and predictable for me. I didn't think the follow to what I considered to be a REALLY great girlfriend book would be a romance novel. I felt like I was hoodwinked. Dunno if there's a 3rd book coming out, but I'm not sure I'd want to read it.

Vanessa is looking for a divorce attorney and can't afford the high priced Ms. Sylvia. Enter the lawyer of lost causes to save the day...stop me if you've heard it before.
Profile Image for Tina.
128 reviews5 followers
July 5, 2017
Another excellent book from D.L. White!

Vanessa Jackson is the likeable and relatable heroine. Gibson is the perfect man except that his harpy mother is enough to scare anyone off. If you loved Brunch at Ruby's, you'll love this one too. (And you'll squeal at the little cameos by Maxine, everyone's favorite HBIC from Ruby's!)

Also, the sex ratchets up a notch in this book. I was blushing while I read it.
Profile Image for Marbea Logan.
1,302 reviews17 followers
August 9, 2021
It's nothing like reading a black writers novel who writes relatable meaningful stories. I can't wait to read the next installment about the characters of Decatur Georgia!!
Profile Image for LaToya Brooks.
2,976 reviews1 follower
May 3, 2017
Ok

It was ok. I loved the relationship that Gibson and Vanessa had. I'm glad he didn't look down on her when he found out her secret. Nothing really that jumped out on me but it was a good story nonetheless
2,670 reviews23 followers
May 22, 2017
Very Good

This was such a good romance,the writer gives us two characters that not only are relatable but also likable.The story moves at a pace that not keeps you entertained but it keeps you interested in what is going to happen next.I love that you are getting just enough drama to think to yourself well here it comes!I love the fact that the writer doesn't fall into the trap but gives you a story that been well thought out and with characters that have been fleshed out.Overall this so very enjoyable and a whole lot of fun.
Profile Image for Deirdre Davis.
530 reviews6 followers
May 6, 2017
Dinner at Sam's

The more stories I read by DL White the better it gets in my reading world! Gibson & Vanessa had to work thru a few things to get to trust and companionship. Loved Uncle & Auntie! Wanted more to happen to ole Warren but it doesn't change how much I enjoyed reading this book!
2,390 reviews3 followers
May 8, 2017
Awww, loved this book!

Gibson and Vanessa were both dealing with pain and found strength in each other! Gibson was strong and sexy, and Vanessa was coming into town as a strong woman and mother. They found love in each other! Loved this book! Looking forward to the next Ruby's book!
194 reviews
May 7, 2017
Loved it!

I wanted to spend more and more time in Vanessa and Gibson's lives. Vanessa from Brunch at Ruby's was a great character to follow and you won't be disappointed reading this, because DL crafts an interesting story for her.
Profile Image for Teresa Mcmillian.
448 reviews11 followers
May 8, 2017
Great read

I really the follow up to Brunch At Ruby's. I enjoyed the characters and I was reading at every available moment I had. I was so happy to read that we get more in the future.
Profile Image for Latoya.
52 reviews
May 14, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was a very easy read. It made me want to have some of those famous lemon pepper wings. And find that aromatherapy shower thing.
2,204 reviews3 followers
March 3, 2018
Another good Ruby's Book

If you've read "Brunch at Ruby's" with Maxine, Debra, and Renee then you will immediately be able to pick up where the 1st book left off. If not, you really won't be able to follow the characters and storyline very well.

Vanessa a successful high end real estate agent, recently found out that her husband was leading a double life. He had another woman on the side that he lived with, travels with, and left her for. He hasn't paid the mortgage on their house for the past 6 months and it went into foreclosure, the only reason she found out was due to his latest "business trip" Vanessa got the mail that he usually insists on getting. He maxed out all of her credit cards and emptied out their bank accounts. She's lucky that she opened one that he never knew about when she started making good money in real estate.

He met Vanessa when she was rebelling and was pole dancing. He fed her a bunch of lies and told her that he wanted to marry her. They broke up off and on for over a year. When she was done for good because of his controlling ways, she found out that she was pregnant. They got married and he started he became even worse. He started "traveling" for extended periods of time and when she saw pictures of him on a woman's Facebook page traveling and dining out she was furious.

Maxine referrers her to the best divorce attorney in Atlanta who owes her a big favor. Apparently, Sylvia Kincaid cares more about the bottom line then her loyalty to people. She basically throws Vanessa out of her office when she realizes that Vanessa only wants a divorce and child support for her 2 girls--nothing else; also Vanessa can't afford her $20,000 fee. Humiliated, she can't get out of that office fast enough, and runs right into Sylvia's son, Gibson, causing the contents of her purse to fly everywhere.

Gibson hates working for his Mother. His 3 brothers do so happily and bill their wealthy clients without a second thought; pleasing their Mother in the process. Gibson has a soft spot for people who can't afford the firm's services, much to his Mom's disapproval, so he bills them a different fee than the normal $400. She made a deal with him when he graduated law school, he would work for the family firm for 4 years and she would give him the seed money to get his own firm off the ground. When his final 6 months rolls around, his Mother goes back on her word because he takes on Vanessa's case AFTER she tells him not to.

The problem is they start to develop feelings for one another. When her bitter ex sees her announcement in the newspaper, because she doesn't know where he lives, he shows up at her Uncle's restaurant and causes a scene by hurting her in front of Gibson, threatening to NEVER sign and release her from their marriage.

What Gibson can't figure out is that her ex is filing a lot motions, which is costing him hours with his attorney. Yet the man claims that he's so broke that he can't pay child support? When he runs this by Vanessa, telling her that he wants to look into his situation; she goes nuts on him and breaks up with him. He thinks that she knows what is really going on, so he hires an investigator to only look into him. But the truth is that she is so afraid that he will find out about her past stripping. His father is a judge, his mother is a very well known attorney, she's afraid that they will make him stop seeing her, telling him that he can do much better.

But when her ex is the one to tell her secret to try to scare Gibson off, he's disappointed in her for not trusting him with the truth.

A MUST read!!
112 reviews2 followers
October 29, 2017
Even Better...than the first one!

Dinner At Sam's: A Ruby Novel was even better than the first one. Gibson and Vanessa first hooked up in a very sweet and romantic way.

Throughout the novel, I kept encouraging this couple to go forth, though I realized the hurdles they faced. They were two great characters.

I enjoyed the family interaction on both sides; Gibson's legal eagles and Vanessa's loving aunt and uncle who raised her.

White has a talent for creating characters in her novels that you can easily get attached to because they are real, like the people in our lives.

The storyline was well-paced so the reader was able to move through the story with ease...

I liked the setting in a local African American watering hole... and my mouth waters for some of Sam's lemon pepper wings!

Overall; I enjoyed this novel and I recommend Dinner At Sam's to those who enjoy a sweet love story with plenty of sexual sizzle.

Hoping for a third installment in the Ruby series.



Profile Image for Celeste .
582 reviews6 followers
August 26, 2019
Gibson and Vanessa. When the shit hits the fan

My second book by DL White, and I must say she has a way with solid character and plot development. The story of Vanessa and Gibson is a story one can get into because you're not only rooting for Vanessa but Gibson as well. The road to self actualization can be tough but with determination it's possible.

The aspect I loved even more with this story is Sonja. She is that voice that Vanessa and others needed. Solid advice without malicious intent.

With Gibson you respect his decision to support the underserved and law as more of a means to make money.

Vanessa you just wanted her to win. Despite her past and for the sake of her girls. Plus her Uncle and Aunt were truly the foundation to pull it all together.
50 reviews
August 13, 2022
I enjoyed the book and am adding this one written by D.L.White to her list of good reads! Her books are enjoyable, positive theme's with Black Women as main characters, showing the world they are capable of being and doing anything.

Somewhere in your forward you write, "how writing is a lonely profession." Well keep writing, so we can give you roses and accolades while you are still amongst us. I have become an avid reader and purchaser of your books. So Keep Writing them, give us some laught's, moments of sister love, glimpse of the ambivalences we face daily with keep our head above water and the reminders we are "truly capable of doing and being whomever we choose to be.

Best Wishes and Blessing to you and your craft.
Profile Image for Jessica Terry.
Author 38 books40 followers
May 31, 2020
This was definitely a book that I couldn't put down after a certain point. I absolutely LOVED the rapport between Vanessa and Gibson...Gibson and his brothers...even Gibson and his mother, Sylvia. There were several points where I actually laughed and re-read. I'd be super interested to read another story involving these characters.
There were some minor editing issues, but this was one of the rare times I didn't really care about that. The writing and the story were strong enough to where it didn't detract from the overall experience.

This was my second read by this author (I think) and it certainly won't be the last.
Profile Image for Brandis Pruitt.
68 reviews4 followers
April 29, 2021
Once again, Ms. White didn’t disappoint. This book had me ready to pack and move to a smaller town where good friends meet at the bookstore, Ruby’s Soul Food Cafe, and of course Sam’s! I absolutely love her ability to show the how one soul can bring the best out of another one. The dynamic between friends is also another strong strength this author possess. I loved meeting Gibson and Vanessa! I watched them both mature right in front of my eyes.

This book was comfort, growth, success, healing and love wrapped in one. Enjoy! Oh read the first book in the sequel before this one! You could read it alone but it was fun already knowing about the other characters that peaked in this story.
Profile Image for Lorinda Cockrell.
108 reviews2 followers
February 6, 2019
Hot and Steamy

I choose 5 stars because it had a great storyline and the love story was believable. Vanessa's story is about a self made woman. Who married a self absorbed idiot. She needs some help and Gibson Kincaid shows up with an S on his chest. This tall thick drink of water has her desiring more than his attorney skills. Gibson is thinking the same thing about her. There are obstacles that they have to overcome and not just in relationship, but in life. Read and find out if you moved you in all the right ways.
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