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Hearts at War
Jabari lost the love of his life centuries ago. He knew he would never find someone who could equal what he had with her. Then he met Aisha, a feisty rogue werecat, and she had pulled at his dead heart in ways he never dreamed. Not willing to take that risk again, he walked away from her and their shared feelings.
Sixteen years later, Jabari has been asked to help Aisha with a mysterious problem. It’s his duty as a son of Hasan, ruler of the werecats, to take care of the werecats in his father’s stead.
That includes helping Aisha, no matter how much she might hate him.
Jabari has no intention of falling back into her bed or letting her into his heart. He’s intrigued by the mystery she’s presented, but that doesn’t mean he’ll go see her without a battle plan.
They don’t call him the General for nothing.
Aisha made two mistakes sixteen years ago. She fell in love with a man that didn’t return the sentiment, then she didn’t tell him she was pregnant with his child after he left. Not only had her heart been broken, but she had to consider who the father was as well.
Jabari, son of Hasan, or as most knew him: the General.
It was fear, not anger or heartbreak, that kept her from reaching out sooner. She had feared that she would lose her son to the political machine that was Jabari’s family, the ruling family of the werecats. Feared that her son would lose his chance to choose his own destiny. She had wanted to spare him from that until he was old enough to understand.
She never expected out of control magic, and now she'll have to answer for her mistakes if she wants to help her son. The only thing she has to lose is her child.
Aisha has no intention of losing her son to that family and their expectations without a fight.
She’ll even go to war with the General if she has to.
Sixteen years later, Jabari has been asked to help Aisha with a mysterious problem. It’s his duty as a son of Hasan, ruler of the werecats, to take care of the werecats in his father’s stead.
That includes helping Aisha, no matter how much she might hate him.
Jabari has no intention of falling back into her bed or letting her into his heart. He’s intrigued by the mystery she’s presented, but that doesn’t mean he’ll go see her without a battle plan.
They don’t call him the General for nothing.
Aisha made two mistakes sixteen years ago. She fell in love with a man that didn’t return the sentiment, then she didn’t tell him she was pregnant with his child after he left. Not only had her heart been broken, but she had to consider who the father was as well.
Jabari, son of Hasan, or as most knew him: the General.
It was fear, not anger or heartbreak, that kept her from reaching out sooner. She had feared that she would lose her son to the political machine that was Jabari’s family, the ruling family of the werecats. Feared that her son would lose his chance to choose his own destiny. She had wanted to spare him from that until he was old enough to understand.
She never expected out of control magic, and now she'll have to answer for her mistakes if she wants to help her son. The only thing she has to lose is her child.
Aisha has no intention of losing her son to that family and their expectations without a fight.
She’ll even go to war with the General if she has to.
331 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 16, 2022
205 people are currently reading
228 people want to read
About the author
K.N. Banet
36 books720 followersAuthor of the Jacky Leon series, Kaliya Sahni series, and Everly Abbott series, along with standalones that belong in the same world as all of them!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 140 reviews
January 21, 2022
Man, I really loved this.
Aisha is such a great character. She's had such a rough life, but her heart is beautiful, and she's a fierce and loyal defender of the people she loves. She's the kind of mother that everyone deserves, and at so many moments in this book my heart just fucking broke for her. I'm so glad that she gets Jabari (once he stopped being a douche) as her mate - someone who will defend her with the same ferocity that she defends those who are hers. She deserves that so much.
Jabari was a dick in the beginning ... but as it unfolded, I understood why and my heart broke for him too. His life is all responsibility, and everyone takes him for granted. I can't believe that he was so close to suicide and no one even realized. I'm not going to say he didn't take things too far with Aisha - he did - but man, what he's been through. And he's been through it all nearly alone.
Makalo was lovely, and the glimpses of the overall world and the family of Hasan ... I ate it all up. Sheesh, that family is so dysfunctional. But the video call, and the epic slapdown...Aisha was a fucking goddess there. I feel like this was a moment of sea change with that family, and I'm curious at how this will impact them. I think Hasan heard her, because he does love his children, but is he even capable of change? I think more importantly, his children heard her, and are looking at themselves and each other in a new way. I feel like this is going to matter, like it is going to impact how things go forward from here. I've had huge hopes for Jacky's relationship with them each throughout her series - they can seriously piss me right the fuck off, but then they show these moments of incredible heart. I want them to work things out, to be a family. I want it. Even if that happens because Hasan is pushed out of the position of authority and into the role of just being a father and grandfather...honestly, that might be the best thing for him. Just getting to be family, and setting aside the rest of it. Let his children take over. They're ready.
So anyway, yeah, I loved it. Utterly. And will happily gorge myself on anything else involving these characters... and hopefully stories with other characters from this family. They are hurting so much. I want them to really become a family - not just to the outside world, but to each other. Right now, they hurt each other more than they help, unless it is against an outside force. That has to change.
Will definitely re-read this repeatedly.
Aisha is such a great character. She's had such a rough life, but her heart is beautiful, and she's a fierce and loyal defender of the people she loves. She's the kind of mother that everyone deserves, and at so many moments in this book my heart just fucking broke for her. I'm so glad that she gets Jabari (once he stopped being a douche) as her mate - someone who will defend her with the same ferocity that she defends those who are hers. She deserves that so much.
Jabari was a dick in the beginning ... but as it unfolded, I understood why and my heart broke for him too. His life is all responsibility, and everyone takes him for granted. I can't believe that he was so close to suicide and no one even realized. I'm not going to say he didn't take things too far with Aisha - he did - but man, what he's been through. And he's been through it all nearly alone.
Makalo was lovely, and the glimpses of the overall world and the family of Hasan ... I ate it all up. Sheesh, that family is so dysfunctional. But the video call, and the epic slapdown...Aisha was a fucking goddess there. I feel like this was a moment of sea change with that family, and I'm curious at how this will impact them. I think Hasan heard her, because he does love his children, but is he even capable of change? I think more importantly, his children heard her, and are looking at themselves and each other in a new way. I feel like this is going to matter, like it is going to impact how things go forward from here. I've had huge hopes for Jacky's relationship with them each throughout her series - they can seriously piss me right the fuck off, but then they show these moments of incredible heart. I want them to work things out, to be a family. I want it. Even if that happens because Hasan is pushed out of the position of authority and into the role of just being a father and grandfather...honestly, that might be the best thing for him. Just getting to be family, and setting aside the rest of it. Let his children take over. They're ready.
So anyway, yeah, I loved it. Utterly. And will happily gorge myself on anything else involving these characters... and hopefully stories with other characters from this family. They are hurting so much. I want them to really become a family - not just to the outside world, but to each other. Right now, they hurt each other more than they help, unless it is against an outside force. That has to change.
Will definitely re-read this repeatedly.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 18, 2022
3.5/5.0
Loved delving into the elusive Jabari and his story! This specific book’s focus is much more on the romance than other books in the Banet universe, however. I didn’t mind that at all and understand, if a character only gets one book, it’s pretty impossible to tell their story, fall in love and attain a believable HEA unless the time is spent. And, that aspect of the book is done superbly. Aisha is the perfect counter-point to Jabari’s closed, cold personality. Her passion and devotion to her son, her kindness and humanity to others are exactly what his character needs.
This book didn’t seem as tightly written as the main series books, however. I never could figure out why Jabari was SO set on not accepting Aisha. Yes, the whole “mate bond” thing but not to even consider loving someone after THOUSANDS of years? Plus, the action/suspense aspect, even though a secondary plot thread, wasn’t fleshed out enough to really be believable. Readers would definitely have to have read previous books to understand what was going on with the witches etc. I would also have loved to have seen more of the interactions with the family after the revelations was made. Yeah, yeah… SO much to shove into one story!
My favorite part of the entire book, however, was that AMAZING verbal smack-down Aisha gave Hasan. Priceless!!!
Loved delving into the elusive Jabari and his story! This specific book’s focus is much more on the romance than other books in the Banet universe, however. I didn’t mind that at all and understand, if a character only gets one book, it’s pretty impossible to tell their story, fall in love and attain a believable HEA unless the time is spent. And, that aspect of the book is done superbly. Aisha is the perfect counter-point to Jabari’s closed, cold personality. Her passion and devotion to her son, her kindness and humanity to others are exactly what his character needs.
This book didn’t seem as tightly written as the main series books, however. I never could figure out why Jabari was SO set on not accepting Aisha. Yes, the whole “mate bond” thing but not to even consider loving someone after THOUSANDS of years? Plus, the action/suspense aspect, even though a secondary plot thread, wasn’t fleshed out enough to really be believable. Readers would definitely have to have read previous books to understand what was going on with the witches etc. I would also have loved to have seen more of the interactions with the family after the revelations was made. Yeah, yeah… SO much to shove into one story!
My favorite part of the entire book, however, was that AMAZING verbal smack-down Aisha gave Hasan. Priceless!!!
January 18, 2022
My Thoughts on Hearts at War
Confession.... I love everything about this Universe - and I have read every single installment. It doesn't matter if I am reading about Jacky and her ill-advised romance with Heath, or Kalia and the heritage she finally topped running from - or any of the other vibrant characters in this world, I just love it. And this one is no exception. Jabari, who is one of Jacky's werecat siblings, steps up and takes the lead, shining a light on yet another aspect of this sprawling, and powerful, family.
Jabari, Son of Hasan, also known as 'The General', is a fierce Werecat, loyal to his family and the image that his Father has carefully crafted throughout the ages. He knows his job, what he is supposed to do, and how the world should see him. Yet despite appearances, Jabari is a fractured man, a living embodiment of the issues in Hasan's family - issues that become even more clear-cut in this installment. With the addition of a few new characters, Aisha and Makalo, the depth of this story and the intrigue woven between narratives take on new layers and complications - expanding even as the family becomes more 'real'.
I adored this story. When I first met Jabari during one of Jacky's adventures, I didn't like him at all - but that was probably the point. He has grown on me, and he cements my fondness for his curt soul here, where he takes front and center. Yet despite my newfound love for Jabari, it's his counterpart, Aisha, that really steals the show. That woman is a fierce, proud MOTHER, who truly exemplifies everything that a mother is supposed to be. She pulls no punches and lays it all out there with brutal honesty and a clear heart that, quite literally, made me cheer. I hope I see her in future books, along with Makalo, and everything he represents for this changing family.
While this is a great addition to an astounding, and ever-growing, world, it is a stand-alone adventure that can be read without previous knowledge, though the lack of such may make certain things a bit confusing.
Perspective:
Third Person, Multiple POV
Ending Type:
HEA
Rating:
R, Adult
Romantic Dynamic:
M/F
Character Age Range:
Adult
My Final Verdict on Hearts at War
A great addition to this complex world. The Children of Hasan are each unique and special in their own ways - shining a spotlight on yet another one of the siblings only increases the appeal of this series. Rich, romantic, and surprisingly wise, this is a great read perfect for fans of The Tribunal Archives, or for Urban Fantasy Fans everywhere.
Confession.... I love everything about this Universe - and I have read every single installment. It doesn't matter if I am reading about Jacky and her ill-advised romance with Heath, or Kalia and the heritage she finally topped running from - or any of the other vibrant characters in this world, I just love it. And this one is no exception. Jabari, who is one of Jacky's werecat siblings, steps up and takes the lead, shining a light on yet another aspect of this sprawling, and powerful, family.
Jabari, Son of Hasan, also known as 'The General', is a fierce Werecat, loyal to his family and the image that his Father has carefully crafted throughout the ages. He knows his job, what he is supposed to do, and how the world should see him. Yet despite appearances, Jabari is a fractured man, a living embodiment of the issues in Hasan's family - issues that become even more clear-cut in this installment. With the addition of a few new characters, Aisha and Makalo, the depth of this story and the intrigue woven between narratives take on new layers and complications - expanding even as the family becomes more 'real'.
I adored this story. When I first met Jabari during one of Jacky's adventures, I didn't like him at all - but that was probably the point. He has grown on me, and he cements my fondness for his curt soul here, where he takes front and center. Yet despite my newfound love for Jabari, it's his counterpart, Aisha, that really steals the show. That woman is a fierce, proud MOTHER, who truly exemplifies everything that a mother is supposed to be. She pulls no punches and lays it all out there with brutal honesty and a clear heart that, quite literally, made me cheer. I hope I see her in future books, along with Makalo, and everything he represents for this changing family.
While this is a great addition to an astounding, and ever-growing, world, it is a stand-alone adventure that can be read without previous knowledge, though the lack of such may make certain things a bit confusing.
Perspective:
Third Person, Multiple POV
Ending Type:
HEA
Rating:
R, Adult
Romantic Dynamic:
M/F
Character Age Range:
Adult
My Final Verdict on Hearts at War
A great addition to this complex world. The Children of Hasan are each unique and special in their own ways - shining a spotlight on yet another one of the siblings only increases the appeal of this series. Rich, romantic, and surprisingly wise, this is a great read perfect for fans of The Tribunal Archives, or for Urban Fantasy Fans everywhere.
January 14, 2022
Well this was just pretty damn near perfect!
Banet is the Queen. Everything she writes is enthralling and I absolutely loved this book.
Technically, this could be a stand alone romance, but it's so heavily tied I to the Tribunal Series, particularly Jacky's books, that I would highly recommend reading the previous ones first, as there are lots of references to these books and many of the characters make an appearance.
Jabari, Jack's enigmatic older aibling, is the focus of the book, along with Aisha, the woman who's heart he broke 16 years ago, as he was so damaged as an individual he walked away from a true chance of happiness. Unbeknownst to him (her and her) at the time, she was pregnant with his baby.
16 years later, Aisha has raised her son alone on her isolated territory, terrified that if anyone knew of her son's existence they would either kill him or kidnap him, due to his connection to Jabari and his family - the ruling Were Cat family.
However, Makalo starts displaying magic, which he has inherited from Jabari's family, and Aisha knows she's going to have to ask for help.
When Jabari arrives and discovers a 15 year old son he never knew about, could can imagine the angst and drama!
Honestly, there was nothing not to love in this book. Banet really focuses of Aisha's role as a mother and spent a lot of time focusing on her relationship with Makalo and the care in which she has raised him. With UF so often snarky, leather wearing, valid 19 year olds, it was amazing to read about a mother. Makalo is an absolute sweetie, too.
Jabari and Aisha have such good chemistry and an instant reconnection, even though everything is very complicated. I adored the way their relationship progressed throughout the book. It felt very realistic.
For long time readers of the Jacky Leon series, there is a scene near the end that made me want to give Aisha a standing ovation. Let's just say she lays one hell of a smack-down at Hassan's feet, and that bastard has had it coming a long time. I loved it so much!
I'm summary, Banet is truly one of the best in this genre and you absolutely just read everything she's ever written, including this. But start with the Jacky Leon series!
Banet is the Queen. Everything she writes is enthralling and I absolutely loved this book.
Technically, this could be a stand alone romance, but it's so heavily tied I to the Tribunal Series, particularly Jacky's books, that I would highly recommend reading the previous ones first, as there are lots of references to these books and many of the characters make an appearance.
Jabari, Jack's enigmatic older aibling, is the focus of the book, along with Aisha, the woman who's heart he broke 16 years ago, as he was so damaged as an individual he walked away from a true chance of happiness. Unbeknownst to him (her and her) at the time, she was pregnant with his baby.
16 years later, Aisha has raised her son alone on her isolated territory, terrified that if anyone knew of her son's existence they would either kill him or kidnap him, due to his connection to Jabari and his family - the ruling Were Cat family.
However, Makalo starts displaying magic, which he has inherited from Jabari's family, and Aisha knows she's going to have to ask for help.
When Jabari arrives and discovers a 15 year old son he never knew about, could can imagine the angst and drama!
Honestly, there was nothing not to love in this book. Banet really focuses of Aisha's role as a mother and spent a lot of time focusing on her relationship with Makalo and the care in which she has raised him. With UF so often snarky, leather wearing, valid 19 year olds, it was amazing to read about a mother. Makalo is an absolute sweetie, too.
Jabari and Aisha have such good chemistry and an instant reconnection, even though everything is very complicated. I adored the way their relationship progressed throughout the book. It felt very realistic.
For long time readers of the Jacky Leon series, there is a scene near the end that made me want to give Aisha a standing ovation. Let's just say she lays one hell of a smack-down at Hassan's feet, and that bastard has had it coming a long time. I loved it so much!
I'm summary, Banet is truly one of the best in this genre and you absolutely just read everything she's ever written, including this. But start with the Jacky Leon series!
June 27, 2022
2.5
This is the third book I’ve started by this author (all set in the same world) and, what can I say except “not good enough and not particularly bad”?
They never engaged me and convinced me to keep reading and after book 3 I must admit this author isn’t for me.
Hearts at war isn’t UF, it’s a PNR but weak to the point of being watery. There’s nothing strong in this book, whether we are talking about love or about cruelty. We are lead to believe he shattered her heart, but I don’t really see. Yes, if you love and aren’t loved back it’s bad, cruel? No. He simply left you. There was nothing cruel about it. Nothing world shattering. Not even the sex :P
There’s a hint of a plot, but really nothing happens. It’s almost boring :D
Yes it’s a PNR, but if you get rid of the word were or witch (and a few details) it could be your run of the mill harmony.
This is the third book I’ve started by this author (all set in the same world) and, what can I say except “not good enough and not particularly bad”?
They never engaged me and convinced me to keep reading and after book 3 I must admit this author isn’t for me.
Hearts at war isn’t UF, it’s a PNR but weak to the point of being watery. There’s nothing strong in this book, whether we are talking about love or about cruelty. We are lead to believe he shattered her heart, but I don’t really see. Yes, if you love and aren’t loved back it’s bad, cruel? No. He simply left you. There was nothing cruel about it. Nothing world shattering. Not even the sex :P
There’s a hint of a plot, but really nothing happens. It’s almost boring :D
Yes it’s a PNR, but if you get rid of the word were or witch (and a few details) it could be your run of the mill harmony.
January 16, 2022
I LOVED this book. It was really great. It was a lot more on the heavy emotions, not a lot of action/adventure but also heavier on the spice than for the Urban Fantasy books in this world (I think it was maybe a 3.5/5 for spice level, but it was the perfect about for this story). This book is a one-off FM romance set in a larger world. You can absolutely read this as a stand-alone but I will ALWAYS recommend reading ALL the other series/books/stories set in this world. There is some cross over but I think it just enhances the story, you can get by without it.
I was a little nervous about going into this book because so far I have not liked Jabari that much. But I figured he was only 50% of the MF couple and I would probably love Aisha and hopefully this would redeem Jabari a little.
I really enjoyed Aisha. She was an amazing mother and I highlighted many of the "mum says..." for later reference. I think maybe her giving up her entire life for 25 years is a little too far but honestly, she is an immortal cat, she is going to live forever, what is 25 years in three thousand?
I also enjoyed reading a POC storey set somewhere other than the US. I also wanted to know EVERYTHING that they were cooking and eating, but I know that would have probably been a lot of unnecessary details. We got a few choice tidbits and now I want more.
I'm still not 100% decided on Jabari after this book, he definitely is in neutral territory for me but it was really enjoyable to see his pov and side of things. He is willing to admit when he was wrong and he definitely has some TrAuMa, but I think that is a key element in all of K.N. Banet's books. To be honest I think it seems more and more that everyone has some degree of childhood trauma and that’s what really helps us relate to these amazing characters with intense feelings and depth and interesting qualities.
This book was a clear winner for me and it was a great story. I have HIGH HOPES to hear from them in crossing over with Jacky in the future. I CANNOT WAIT for the next Jacky book to hear about her plotting and hopefully, they all become family friends.
One thing I did take away from this book is that all Hasan's kiddos seem to have ISSUES and maybe we will hear about them all in future stories? Or maybe Jacky will find out for us?
(I received an ARC)
I was a little nervous about going into this book because so far I have not liked Jabari that much. But I figured he was only 50% of the MF couple and I would probably love Aisha and hopefully this would redeem Jabari a little.
I really enjoyed Aisha. She was an amazing mother and I highlighted many of the "mum says..." for later reference. I think maybe her giving up her entire life for 25 years is a little too far but honestly, she is an immortal cat, she is going to live forever, what is 25 years in three thousand?
I also enjoyed reading a POC storey set somewhere other than the US. I also wanted to know EVERYTHING that they were cooking and eating, but I know that would have probably been a lot of unnecessary details. We got a few choice tidbits and now I want more.
I'm still not 100% decided on Jabari after this book, he definitely is in neutral territory for me but it was really enjoyable to see his pov and side of things. He is willing to admit when he was wrong and he definitely has some TrAuMa, but I think that is a key element in all of K.N. Banet's books. To be honest I think it seems more and more that everyone has some degree of childhood trauma and that’s what really helps us relate to these amazing characters with intense feelings and depth and interesting qualities.
This book was a clear winner for me and it was a great story. I have HIGH HOPES to hear from them in crossing over with Jacky in the future. I CANNOT WAIT for the next Jacky book to hear about her plotting and hopefully, they all become family friends.
One thing I did take away from this book is that all Hasan's kiddos seem to have ISSUES and maybe we will hear about them all in future stories? Or maybe Jacky will find out for us?
(I received an ARC)
January 19, 2022
I received an ARC of this book, but I loved it so much I bought it too. I do that to support writers I really love because the best way for me to return the gift of their life's work is to buy the book, too.
I ADORED THIS BOOK. Fair warning - it isn't as physically as action-packed as most of her novels, but the emotional war taking place in this book is as exciting an gratifying as ANY book, from any author, that contains the "good guy defeats the bad guy" trope. I am still struggling to put into words how much this book affected me and made me really look at my own personal relationships, past and present, with family and "loved" ones.
Aisha, a were-cat, received the best "present" ever from her relationship 15 years ago with Hasan's son, Jabari - her mature, caring, son Makalo. Unfortunately, she also suffered the kind of heartbreak only someone who has truly loved can suffer when Jabari left her those many years ago, before she realized she was pregnant. Jabar, at the time, didn't tell her that he left because he felt he couldn't offer her what she deserved - a true mate, as he already had his thousands of years ago. Aisha loved Jabari, but loves Makalo more, and did not want him growing up in the craziness and control of Hasan, Jabari, and the rest of the circus that is this family. She actually hoped to delay telling him that Jabari was his father until Makalo was ready to leave home, but that choice was taken away when Makalo suddenly developed witch/warlock powers when he turned 15. Knowing how uncontrolled magic can lead to bad consequences, Aisha contacts Juri, who is one of the two "known" were-cat witches, to help. Juri, a new mom, couldn't leave but decided to send - you guessed it - Jabari - who Aisha must now tell her Makalo about Jabari and vice-versa, unplanned and unprepared. Sparks fly, as you can imagine, in every way and in every direction - literally and figuratively.
I won't tell more of the storyline, because I don't like to do that, but let me say that this mama-werecat is armed with the kind of love and conviction of purpose that only a mom can have. Her selflessness and dedication to Makalo is inspiring and beautiful, and the love that re-grows between a much-more-mature Aisha and Jabari, and Jabari and Makalo, is a testament to her personal integrity. It is impossible for me to describe how brilliantly Banet described the emotions, thoughts, and feelings of and between these characters. Not to give the most incredibly powerful scene away, but Aisha's pure heart allows her to stand up to everyone, and I mean EVERYONE, who calls her decisions about Makalo's upbringing into question. She even shames those whose arrogance put them, long ago, far past any shame about their lives and their life choices. It is MAGNIFICENT in a way no physical "bad-guy" defeat can ever compare.
RUN TO GET THIS BOOK! This book flayed my heart and soul, and I am still thinking about it on a regular basis, even after reading other books and work and all of the things for which life's demands require your attention. I highlighted so many quotes that this book looks like one of my college textbooks after my highlighters did their "thing".
I ADORED THIS BOOK. Fair warning - it isn't as physically as action-packed as most of her novels, but the emotional war taking place in this book is as exciting an gratifying as ANY book, from any author, that contains the "good guy defeats the bad guy" trope. I am still struggling to put into words how much this book affected me and made me really look at my own personal relationships, past and present, with family and "loved" ones.
Aisha, a were-cat, received the best "present" ever from her relationship 15 years ago with Hasan's son, Jabari - her mature, caring, son Makalo. Unfortunately, she also suffered the kind of heartbreak only someone who has truly loved can suffer when Jabari left her those many years ago, before she realized she was pregnant. Jabar, at the time, didn't tell her that he left because he felt he couldn't offer her what she deserved - a true mate, as he already had his thousands of years ago. Aisha loved Jabari, but loves Makalo more, and did not want him growing up in the craziness and control of Hasan, Jabari, and the rest of the circus that is this family. She actually hoped to delay telling him that Jabari was his father until Makalo was ready to leave home, but that choice was taken away when Makalo suddenly developed witch/warlock powers when he turned 15. Knowing how uncontrolled magic can lead to bad consequences, Aisha contacts Juri, who is one of the two "known" were-cat witches, to help. Juri, a new mom, couldn't leave but decided to send - you guessed it - Jabari - who Aisha must now tell her Makalo about Jabari and vice-versa, unplanned and unprepared. Sparks fly, as you can imagine, in every way and in every direction - literally and figuratively.
I won't tell more of the storyline, because I don't like to do that, but let me say that this mama-werecat is armed with the kind of love and conviction of purpose that only a mom can have. Her selflessness and dedication to Makalo is inspiring and beautiful, and the love that re-grows between a much-more-mature Aisha and Jabari, and Jabari and Makalo, is a testament to her personal integrity. It is impossible for me to describe how brilliantly Banet described the emotions, thoughts, and feelings of and between these characters. Not to give the most incredibly powerful scene away, but Aisha's pure heart allows her to stand up to everyone, and I mean EVERYONE, who calls her decisions about Makalo's upbringing into question. She even shames those whose arrogance put them, long ago, far past any shame about their lives and their life choices. It is MAGNIFICENT in a way no physical "bad-guy" defeat can ever compare.
RUN TO GET THIS BOOK! This book flayed my heart and soul, and I am still thinking about it on a regular basis, even after reading other books and work and all of the things for which life's demands require your attention. I highlighted so many quotes that this book looks like one of my college textbooks after my highlighters did their "thing".
January 21, 2022
I like that with this book we get to know more of Jacky's siblings more. Jabari has always come off as stoic, so seeing him as a real person was interesting. I honestly didn't expect to like him with how he was at the start of this one. From ripping out Aisha's heart, to how he reacted when he was face to face with her again...he was a major asshole!!
I did feel bad that Aisha hadn't told him about Makalo, but he was stone cold when he dropped her. Then later when Aisha explained why she didn't contact Jabari, it made perfect sense. Makalo was so great, level headed, fun, a regular boy, nothing he would have been allowed to be in different circumstances. I really liked that Jabari realized that. It was fun to see the 3 of them learn to exists together. I really wasn't sure about Jabari and Aisha starting a relationship up again, I felt like she would get the shaft again and she didn't deserve that.
I thought Jabari's plan to introduce Makalo and Aisha was a good one. It's too bad that it went to shit fast! I absolutely loved how Aisha stood up for herself, for her son and really put Hasan in his place, while pointing out to all the siblings how the come off. It was some hard truths that they all needed to hear. I really thought that would be the end of things, but no, that was just the beginning of the drama/trauma that happened. I was glad that certain people showed up to save the day, that what happened to Aisha ended up being nothing, that Makalo realized how he'd been played and it wasn't his fault and most of all that Zuri's man is indestructible. All of that made for the last bit to be so great, loved how the people that were shown were happy, that they were having fun and that the family is healing itself.
I did feel bad that Aisha hadn't told him about Makalo, but he was stone cold when he dropped her. Then later when Aisha explained why she didn't contact Jabari, it made perfect sense. Makalo was so great, level headed, fun, a regular boy, nothing he would have been allowed to be in different circumstances. I really liked that Jabari realized that. It was fun to see the 3 of them learn to exists together. I really wasn't sure about Jabari and Aisha starting a relationship up again, I felt like she would get the shaft again and she didn't deserve that.
I thought Jabari's plan to introduce Makalo and Aisha was a good one. It's too bad that it went to shit fast! I absolutely loved how Aisha stood up for herself, for her son and really put Hasan in his place, while pointing out to all the siblings how the come off. It was some hard truths that they all needed to hear. I really thought that would be the end of things, but no, that was just the beginning of the drama/trauma that happened. I was glad that certain people showed up to save the day, that what happened to Aisha ended up being nothing, that Makalo realized how he'd been played and it wasn't his fault and most of all that Zuri's man is indestructible. All of that made for the last bit to be so great, loved how the people that were shown were happy, that they were having fun and that the family is healing itself.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2022
Mixed feelings about this one. 3.5 to 3.75. I found myself really not interested during the whole middle of the story. It only got interesting there at the end which also was a bit rushed.
Aisha, spurned by Jabari since he knew he could never "mate" with her, learns she is pregnant. Deciding to raise the boy on her own, she has it all well in hand until one day his magic comes out. Jabari is of course furious when he finds out he has had a son for 15 years but soon realizes that Aisha was right in keeping him hidden. I hope they have more kids :) as I like them as a couple.
The middle drags as they do chores, home schooling and wild mommy daddy sex. After she takes his "deal". Interesting that he could commit for a decade now when that is all Aisha wanted back when he broke her heart...
It was a little far fetched how Aisha stands up to Hasan but it was totally true. It was a good glimpse into Jacky's world and everyone's pain on the call with the Family. They are all crazy town.
We have a small amount of drama at the end with witches wanting to harvest their son's new power and we see Grandma and Uncle make an appearance. A little convenient how it all played out but it did tie it up in a neat bow.
Aisha, spurned by Jabari since he knew he could never "mate" with her, learns she is pregnant. Deciding to raise the boy on her own, she has it all well in hand until one day his magic comes out. Jabari is of course furious when he finds out he has had a son for 15 years but soon realizes that Aisha was right in keeping him hidden. I hope they have more kids :) as I like them as a couple.
The middle drags as they do chores, home schooling and wild mommy daddy sex. After she takes his "deal". Interesting that he could commit for a decade now when that is all Aisha wanted back when he broke her heart...
It was a little far fetched how Aisha stands up to Hasan but it was totally true. It was a good glimpse into Jacky's world and everyone's pain on the call with the Family. They are all crazy town.
We have a small amount of drama at the end with witches wanting to harvest their son's new power and we see Grandma and Uncle make an appearance. A little convenient how it all played out but it did tie it up in a neat bow.
January 18, 2022
This full length standalone in Jacky and Kaliya’s work gives you a glimpse into the hardened, cold Jabari. It will leave you defensive, angry, sad, mortified, and supremely content. This was the story I wasn’t even realizing we needed but I loved learning more about Jabari, as well as seeing more of Hasan’s family dynamics. Between Zuri’s short story and getting bits and pieces of the other siblings through Jacky’s book… I am dying for more history on all of them. Especially Mischa!! Thank you again KN Banet for creating a story that will live forever!
November 30, 2022
This book sucked
I usually love this authors books but this one was so incredibly dull and just plain bad that I didn't even get half way through. Jabari was an unbelievable
asshole with no redeeming qualities. She should stick with Jackie leon and leave the rest of Jackie's annoying family alone.
I usually love this authors books but this one was so incredibly dull and just plain bad that I didn't even get half way through. Jabari was an unbelievable
asshole with no redeeming qualities. She should stick with Jackie leon and leave the rest of Jackie's annoying family alone.
January 19, 2022
Proust
I can only assume that when I have taken a much longer break from the author’s writing, this book will land better. As it is, I am thoroughly done with the Jacky Leon series that has been going nowhere for 8 full books and another 6 of the same AU featuring Kaliya and the weresnakes. Consequently, this book reads like a bit of a bore.
Generally, I liked that it was set in Mozambique, but other than that it was a fairly uninspiring retread of the hidden-pregnancy romance novel trope. The fmc spent the first 1/3 of the book crying out of self-pity regarding the decisions she made for herself - decisions that seriously harmed Makalos and Jabari. Other than the crying, there simply wasn’t much character to the character. She used to be a model and now she is a stay-at-home mom. The author tried to sell that Jabari and Aisha had some great love between them, but it had been synthesised down to a single chapter of prologue that was focused more on sex than emotion and given that Jabari and Aisha are immortal, the year they spent together was the equivalent of two strangers meeting on vacation and having a brief weekend affair before returning to their established lives. It simply didn’t have any kind of emotional resonance.
As for the Makalos is a werecat with magic-thing, it’s hard to get excited about another slow-walked introduction of a topic that the author has been eliding for 15 books. To put it in context, In Search of Lost Time by Marcel Proust is a faster read than this series, which seems to have no point to it.
I can only assume that when I have taken a much longer break from the author’s writing, this book will land better. As it is, I am thoroughly done with the Jacky Leon series that has been going nowhere for 8 full books and another 6 of the same AU featuring Kaliya and the weresnakes. Consequently, this book reads like a bit of a bore.
Generally, I liked that it was set in Mozambique, but other than that it was a fairly uninspiring retread of the hidden-pregnancy romance novel trope. The fmc spent the first 1/3 of the book crying out of self-pity regarding the decisions she made for herself - decisions that seriously harmed Makalos and Jabari. Other than the crying, there simply wasn’t much character to the character. She used to be a model and now she is a stay-at-home mom. The author tried to sell that Jabari and Aisha had some great love between them, but it had been synthesised down to a single chapter of prologue that was focused more on sex than emotion and given that Jabari and Aisha are immortal, the year they spent together was the equivalent of two strangers meeting on vacation and having a brief weekend affair before returning to their established lives. It simply didn’t have any kind of emotional resonance.
As for the Makalos is a werecat with magic-thing, it’s hard to get excited about another slow-walked introduction of a topic that the author has been eliding for 15 books. To put it in context, In Search of Lost Time by Marcel Proust is a faster read than this series, which seems to have no point to it.
January 17, 2022
I received an advanced copy of this book for an honest review. This book is fantastic!! I would have given it a 4-1/2 if I could of. The book as a whole deserves a 5 star; the only reason for my slight negative, is because of the graphic sex. Some people love that in a romance book; I unfortunately do NOT. I feel everyone knows what is going on and I do not need or enjoy a blow-by-blow detail account.
Now that we are past the small negative let me tell you I am so very thrilled that this author has brough us a character (Aisha) who is a woman of tremendous growth. She is, well good. She is someone I want to know and want to be. She does not just drop in as this perfect character. She is a fun-loving sweet character at the beginning of the book by the end, wow. Bringing a child into her dangerous world changes her priorities. This author has done a brilliant job with her. Jabari he also grows and wants to be better because of her and her love of their son. This story is about The General (Jabari) and why he is who he is and how he got there. The entire werecat ruling family is evolving into a true family and also showing the cracks that happen when too much pressure is added and not enough understanding. I absolutely love this series. I cannot wait to find out more of each of these werecats and how they will evolve to become the people I think they are meant to be. K.N. Banet has and continues to deliver books that I want to revisit time and again, I cannot wait for the next installment.
Now that we are past the small negative let me tell you I am so very thrilled that this author has brough us a character (Aisha) who is a woman of tremendous growth. She is, well good. She is someone I want to know and want to be. She does not just drop in as this perfect character. She is a fun-loving sweet character at the beginning of the book by the end, wow. Bringing a child into her dangerous world changes her priorities. This author has done a brilliant job with her. Jabari he also grows and wants to be better because of her and her love of their son. This story is about The General (Jabari) and why he is who he is and how he got there. The entire werecat ruling family is evolving into a true family and also showing the cracks that happen when too much pressure is added and not enough understanding. I absolutely love this series. I cannot wait to find out more of each of these werecats and how they will evolve to become the people I think they are meant to be. K.N. Banet has and continues to deliver books that I want to revisit time and again, I cannot wait for the next installment.
January 15, 2022
***An ARC copy of this book was sent to me in exchange for an honest review***
This novel is absolutely heart wrenching. The book is set through the alternating POVs of the 3 main character this tale revolves around: Aisha, Jabari, and Makalo, 3 werecats. The plot of this book centers around the consequences of Aisha's decision to keep Makalo hidden from his fathers family, even though she genuinely believes that it was in his best interests. Aisha has no choice but to call in Jabari after Makalo's magic comes into fruition.
Lets start with the character we are most familiar with as he has been a somewhat reoccurring character in the Jacky Leon Novels; Jabari son of Hasan, the General. I've had a love/hate relationship with this character ever since we met him in JL 2: Family and Honor. Maybe because the way I have seen him is so similar to the relationship I have with my own older brother. I think it is so easy to forget that the majority of how we see him is through the already colored perspective of his youngest sister Jacky. This book will rip those glasses off and smash them to smithereens. Is he an a** through a good portion of the book? ABSOLUTELY. Was some of it for a very good reason? Definitely. We finally get some of the context that we've been missing for so long, and that really rounded out his character for me. We finally get to see him (and several others) blossom into the people they could become.
Moving on to out female lead for this book, Aisha daughter of Wekesa. Let me say, Aisha is the mother I always wish I had. The way she raises and protects her son is by far the best mother-child relationship I have ever had the pleasure to read. She's a strong, fierce, vulnerable woman who could've chosen to be petty but instead believes in being a better person for her son. She again and again choses to be the mother and woman who only wants the best for her son despite (or maybe because) past trauma. It is clear to see all the times it would've been so easy for her to be a resentful, petty person, but she does her best to rise beyond it and chose the higher path, even when it paints her in a less than favorable light to those around her. She has made many choices and understands that though they may not have been right for everyone, they were right for Makalo. She refuses to back down when it comes to those choices and the wellbeing of her son and its hard to NOT respect her for her backbone.
****Very Slight spoiler warning:****
And now, Makalo. Precious, mature, innocent Makalo is the 15 year old son of Aisha and Jabari. He's mature beyond his age and wants to protect his mother. He tries so hard to be the son his mother needs and is often beyond mature for his age. He has one major age appropriate outburst, then for the rest of the book he does his best to reel in his anger and face conflicts with wisdom well beyond his years. There's so many times he steps in to protect his mothers feelings and honor, even when he is so angry with her himself. I don't feel ANY review could really paint an adequate picture of this boy and his relationship with his parents.
And oh, towards the end. I absolutely LOVE the way Aisha handles Hasan and the family! Something I've been hoping for AGES some one would do. By far one of my favorite parts of the book. As soon as it becomes available, I will order the paperback version of this book. Trust me. Read the book. If you're a fan of the Jacky Leon books, this one is a sure in.
This novel is absolutely heart wrenching. The book is set through the alternating POVs of the 3 main character this tale revolves around: Aisha, Jabari, and Makalo, 3 werecats. The plot of this book centers around the consequences of Aisha's decision to keep Makalo hidden from his fathers family, even though she genuinely believes that it was in his best interests. Aisha has no choice but to call in Jabari after Makalo's magic comes into fruition.
Lets start with the character we are most familiar with as he has been a somewhat reoccurring character in the Jacky Leon Novels; Jabari son of Hasan, the General. I've had a love/hate relationship with this character ever since we met him in JL 2: Family and Honor. Maybe because the way I have seen him is so similar to the relationship I have with my own older brother. I think it is so easy to forget that the majority of how we see him is through the already colored perspective of his youngest sister Jacky. This book will rip those glasses off and smash them to smithereens. Is he an a** through a good portion of the book? ABSOLUTELY. Was some of it for a very good reason? Definitely. We finally get some of the context that we've been missing for so long, and that really rounded out his character for me. We finally get to see him (and several others) blossom into the people they could become.
Moving on to out female lead for this book, Aisha daughter of Wekesa. Let me say, Aisha is the mother I always wish I had. The way she raises and protects her son is by far the best mother-child relationship I have ever had the pleasure to read. She's a strong, fierce, vulnerable woman who could've chosen to be petty but instead believes in being a better person for her son. She again and again choses to be the mother and woman who only wants the best for her son despite (or maybe because) past trauma. It is clear to see all the times it would've been so easy for her to be a resentful, petty person, but she does her best to rise beyond it and chose the higher path, even when it paints her in a less than favorable light to those around her. She has made many choices and understands that though they may not have been right for everyone, they were right for Makalo. She refuses to back down when it comes to those choices and the wellbeing of her son and its hard to NOT respect her for her backbone.
****Very Slight spoiler warning:****
And now, Makalo. Precious, mature, innocent Makalo is the 15 year old son of Aisha and Jabari. He's mature beyond his age and wants to protect his mother. He tries so hard to be the son his mother needs and is often beyond mature for his age. He has one major age appropriate outburst, then for the rest of the book he does his best to reel in his anger and face conflicts with wisdom well beyond his years. There's so many times he steps in to protect his mothers feelings and honor, even when he is so angry with her himself. I don't feel ANY review could really paint an adequate picture of this boy and his relationship with his parents.
And oh, towards the end. I absolutely LOVE the way Aisha handles Hasan and the family! Something I've been hoping for AGES some one would do. By far one of my favorite parts of the book. As soon as it becomes available, I will order the paperback version of this book. Trust me. Read the book. If you're a fan of the Jacky Leon books, this one is a sure in.
January 24, 2022
3.5 stars
February 6, 2022
I loved it! Fantastic series! Aisha is going to do great things for this family of misfits. She's right and they know it. I enjoyed getting to know Jabari better, I mean REALLY enjoyed it! I can't wait to see next how the two teenagers get along, I hadn't thought of that till it was mentioned near the end.
February 11, 2022
This was a bit back and forth for me on a rating. This is an author I typically enjoy, in a world I typically enjoy. There were also highlights to this book that deserve more than 3 stars, but I am rating the book overall. And just because the main character is so wonderful in so many ways, that doesn't overshadow the literal deus ex-machina that happens or the very unsatisfactory feel to one of the last scenes in the book. You dwell on the emotional happiness of others so much in this book, and the literal happiness of the MCs son so overwhelmingly much in this book (not that I am bothered by that, but the mixed messaging gets me), then something horrible happens to him, and we skip over his emotional responses and soothing for a scene that isn't even about him as the finish to the story?
This thing had wonderful moments, truly. And MC being added to this family and world seems great. But this family (Hasan's family, I mean) also somehow became pathetic in this book. Subira wasn't pathetic, but I feel like in some ways, the author forced the character to be someone other than who she had been previously which also jarred. My one real spoiler is on that:
If all of Hasan's children are unhappy because they have used by him to be what HE needed over the years, and they have never been put first, and Subira is their mother, her saying that if Makalo's parents both died SHE would take care of him and put him first because Hasan obviously wouldn't, it still feels like a lie. If she could have seen clearly enough to do that, wouldn't she have done it for her own children? Because she obviously didn't.
Upon further reflection, Subira just gets worse. The reveal that she knew about the traumatic events that had Jubari depressed and suicidal for literally thousands of years and did nothing to help him flat out says she and Hasan were both The. Worst. Parents. Not just Hasan. No reason to think she even *could* be better for someone else's child than she was for her own.
This thing had wonderful moments, truly. And MC being added to this family and world seems great. But this family (Hasan's family, I mean) also somehow became pathetic in this book. Subira wasn't pathetic, but I feel like in some ways, the author forced the character to be someone other than who she had been previously which also jarred. My one real spoiler is on that:
If all of Hasan's children are unhappy because they have used by him to be what HE needed over the years, and they have never been put first, and Subira is their mother, her saying that if Makalo's parents both died SHE would take care of him and put him first because Hasan obviously wouldn't, it still feels like a lie. If she could have seen clearly enough to do that, wouldn't she have done it for her own children? Because she obviously didn't.
Upon further reflection, Subira just gets worse. The reveal that she knew about the traumatic events that had Jubari depressed and suicidal for literally thousands of years and did nothing to help him flat out says she and Hasan were both The. Worst. Parents. Not just Hasan. No reason to think she even *could* be better for someone else's child than she was for her own.
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May 26, 2024“Every series or standalone novel is written so it can be read alone.” That’s what is said about the books in the Tribunal Archives world but this is a lie especially with this novella and the newer books in each series, and has caused me heartache a time or two so be warned!
Anywho, the author warned about the explicit s*x scenes, I thought to myself “nah, how explicit can she really get?” Coz we have seen what she usually writes…….well, I kinda ate my words. There were several scenes, several good Lord that alone was 😯 and the rest well, all I can say is Jabari’s intensity transfers to all aspects of his life, he is very thorough **cough cough**
All that aside, I unfortunately didn’t get the same feel as usual with books in this world until about 90% but we were warned, still, that this was a romance novel 😏 so can’t really complain.
I gotta say this though, I wish Aisha had made Jabari grovel some more but that’s not the type of person she is, too nice that’s Aisha. But man does she pack a “punch” hehehe loved loved that dressing down she gave to Hassan and Mischa. Mehn, that means reading Rogue Alpha is going to be painful 😣
Thank you Ms K.N. Banet
Anywho, the author warned about the explicit s*x scenes, I thought to myself “nah, how explicit can she really get?” Coz we have seen what she usually writes…….well, I kinda ate my words. There were several scenes, several good Lord that alone was 😯 and the rest well, all I can say is Jabari’s intensity transfers to all aspects of his life, he is very thorough **cough cough**
All that aside, I unfortunately didn’t get the same feel as usual with books in this world until about 90% but we were warned, still, that this was a romance novel 😏 so can’t really complain.
I gotta say this though, I wish Aisha had made Jabari grovel some more but that’s not the type of person she is, too nice that’s Aisha. But man does she pack a “punch” hehehe loved loved that dressing down she gave to Hassan and Mischa. Mehn, that means reading Rogue Alpha is going to be painful 😣
Thank you Ms K.N. Banet
March 6, 2022
The story was fine, but the sex scenes were really boring and didn't add to the plot... yawn... maybe an extra star without these
June 3, 2022
3.75
Jabari, son of Hassan, finally got a little time to shine and be himself. His responsibilities bring him to the home of an old romance, whom he ran from sixteen years prior. When he left, he left Aisha with a broken heart, but unbeknownst to them, also a child. Aisha made the decision fifteen years prior to remove herself from her old life and sequester herself and her son so that he might grow up happy and safe from Jabari and his family's enemies. When Jabari discovers all this, Aisha and Jabari both have a bit of a reckoning. It's also a bit tumultuous for Makalo, as he is just meeting his father and learning of his high-ranking identity. Not to mention, his magic is just emerging, which is the whole reason that Jabari is learning about his son: Aisha has no idea how to help Makalo learn to control and use his magic. The two parents being back in close proximity is a bit of a powder-keg of emotions, whilst trying to sooth Makalo as well.
I've found that there is something about this author's writing style that I must greatly enjoy, that I got this book read in two days. I can see the gaping issues with the plot, but they didn't overwhelm the story for me and ruin my enjoyment. I can't say why that is. Aisha and Jabari have only fallen in love while they sequester themselves from the rest of the world. They may have a good foundation, but they don't know each other as beings outside their relationship. Aisha seems to nearly despise the part of Jabari that is "the Warrior", but that is who he'll have to be in political situations, so will their relationship fail when someone threatens the family? The next time Jabari has to show aggression to prevent a potential threat could show Aisha that he's not just the man she fell for. They intend to the keep sequestering themselves for a decade, so I suppose they have time to ease into things, but I would've liked and believed their devotion to one another more if they had been put through more realistic obstacles.
I also struggled with Makalo as being such a well-adjusted character. I believe the possibility, but not based on the evidence presented in the book. The book waxed on for much too long at times, about Jabari and Aisha's feelings, but never really laid a great foundation for Makalo (at least in my eyes). He seems to have some social skills that are unfounded. He hasn't left the territory, ever. He could very likely get to a good point when meeting strangers, but his first few lines of dialogue ought to be a less graceful. There wasn't any evidence that in all of Makalo's studies, did he ever really interact with someone besides his mother. In real life, those people don't tend to be well adjusted, socially. Perhaps he interacted with people on the internet, but that was never really discussed. All in all, this made Makalo feel more like a plot device than a real being in this world.
Jabari, son of Hassan, finally got a little time to shine and be himself. His responsibilities bring him to the home of an old romance, whom he ran from sixteen years prior. When he left, he left Aisha with a broken heart, but unbeknownst to them, also a child. Aisha made the decision fifteen years prior to remove herself from her old life and sequester herself and her son so that he might grow up happy and safe from Jabari and his family's enemies. When Jabari discovers all this, Aisha and Jabari both have a bit of a reckoning. It's also a bit tumultuous for Makalo, as he is just meeting his father and learning of his high-ranking identity. Not to mention, his magic is just emerging, which is the whole reason that Jabari is learning about his son: Aisha has no idea how to help Makalo learn to control and use his magic. The two parents being back in close proximity is a bit of a powder-keg of emotions, whilst trying to sooth Makalo as well.
I've found that there is something about this author's writing style that I must greatly enjoy, that I got this book read in two days. I can see the gaping issues with the plot, but they didn't overwhelm the story for me and ruin my enjoyment. I can't say why that is. Aisha and Jabari have only fallen in love while they sequester themselves from the rest of the world. They may have a good foundation, but they don't know each other as beings outside their relationship. Aisha seems to nearly despise the part of Jabari that is "the Warrior", but that is who he'll have to be in political situations, so will their relationship fail when someone threatens the family? The next time Jabari has to show aggression to prevent a potential threat could show Aisha that he's not just the man she fell for. They intend to the keep sequestering themselves for a decade, so I suppose they have time to ease into things, but I would've liked and believed their devotion to one another more if they had been put through more realistic obstacles.
I also struggled with Makalo as being such a well-adjusted character. I believe the possibility, but not based on the evidence presented in the book. The book waxed on for much too long at times, about Jabari and Aisha's feelings, but never really laid a great foundation for Makalo (at least in my eyes). He seems to have some social skills that are unfounded. He hasn't left the territory, ever. He could very likely get to a good point when meeting strangers, but his first few lines of dialogue ought to be a less graceful. There wasn't any evidence that in all of Makalo's studies, did he ever really interact with someone besides his mother. In real life, those people don't tend to be well adjusted, socially. Perhaps he interacted with people on the internet, but that was never really discussed. All in all, this made Makalo feel more like a plot device than a real being in this world.
January 25, 2022
Hearts at War is a first standalone novel in the world Tribunal Archives and tells a story of an ancient werecat Jabari, son of Hasan, who just like his twin sister, Zuri, is also a warlock, but keeps this side of his heritage private. Some time before his youngest sibling joined werecat ruling family, Jabari had been in the relationship with another werecat named Aisha. Their ‘fling’ ended rather badly and the two hasn’t seen each other since then. But all these years Aisha’s been keeping secret from not only Jabari but from everyone – her son, Makalo. Their peaceful fifteen years together came to an abrupt halt when young werecat’s magical abilities manifest and Aisha knows that she’ll need an outside help. Thus, the fateful reunion takes places that none of the parties involved could prepare for.
This novel is a first-class emotional ride with emphasis on emotional and since most of it focuses on interpersonal relations between main characters, it can be called a supernatural family drama. Blurb itself promised big feelings and emotions and book delivers. Oh yes, it does. It’s a story of difficult choices and consequences that not everyone is ready to live with.
But Aisha can. This new addition to the werecat world is a phenomenal character I would love to read about again. Such a strong and principled heroine is a real gem. Once a party girl with no territory of her own is now an independent, responsible and a loving mother of even more precious teenage werecat. Aisha is undoubtedly the star of this novel but she shines most brightly in her relations with her growing son, Makalo, who’s equally sensitive, lovely and strong person. It’s so rare to see this kind of healthy, loving familial relationship that’s full of trust and is build on such a strong and good foundations. Sure, Aisha and Makalo make mistakes but they talk through every problem and difficult emotion to avoid miscommunication.
Aisha’s relationships with others is another story but she tries, really tries. Or doesn’t, but then her motives are usually clear and concerns valid. The ones we see in this book are also very convincingly portrayed. Apart from Makalo, her main focus in this book is naturally Jabari, who’s not very happy about the fact, that suddenly he has an almost grownup son and has to deal with this surprising revelation. Aisha and Jabari do hurt each not once, not twice, but they learn to talk to each other and their ironically slow-burn romance is also great arc on its own. Jabari’s a difficult and complicated man with even more difficult and complicated past. Being the part of the very dysfunctional werecat family doesn’t help either. What’s best in this novel is that Jabari can finally can heal his deep wounds and see his closest family from a different and much needed perspective of an outsider. I really loved the fact that we get to know him so much better and also can’t wait to see more of the Hasan’s children in their own respective stories.
ARC in exchange for the honest review.
This novel is a first-class emotional ride with emphasis on emotional and since most of it focuses on interpersonal relations between main characters, it can be called a supernatural family drama. Blurb itself promised big feelings and emotions and book delivers. Oh yes, it does. It’s a story of difficult choices and consequences that not everyone is ready to live with.
But Aisha can. This new addition to the werecat world is a phenomenal character I would love to read about again. Such a strong and principled heroine is a real gem. Once a party girl with no territory of her own is now an independent, responsible and a loving mother of even more precious teenage werecat. Aisha is undoubtedly the star of this novel but she shines most brightly in her relations with her growing son, Makalo, who’s equally sensitive, lovely and strong person. It’s so rare to see this kind of healthy, loving familial relationship that’s full of trust and is build on such a strong and good foundations. Sure, Aisha and Makalo make mistakes but they talk through every problem and difficult emotion to avoid miscommunication.
Aisha’s relationships with others is another story but she tries, really tries. Or doesn’t, but then her motives are usually clear and concerns valid. The ones we see in this book are also very convincingly portrayed. Apart from Makalo, her main focus in this book is naturally Jabari, who’s not very happy about the fact, that suddenly he has an almost grownup son and has to deal with this surprising revelation. Aisha and Jabari do hurt each not once, not twice, but they learn to talk to each other and their ironically slow-burn romance is also great arc on its own. Jabari’s a difficult and complicated man with even more difficult and complicated past. Being the part of the very dysfunctional werecat family doesn’t help either. What’s best in this novel is that Jabari can finally can heal his deep wounds and see his closest family from a different and much needed perspective of an outsider. I really loved the fact that we get to know him so much better and also can’t wait to see more of the Hasan’s children in their own respective stories.
ARC in exchange for the honest review.
June 27, 2024
Very disappointing this novella.
K.N. Banet has created such an incredible world & two phenomenal series, Jacky Leon & Everly Abbott. I have read both series to date & that was why I read this novella, because things in this novella was mentioned in the Jacky Leon series. I was looking forward to Jabari finding love & mating, but I did not enjoy this as all. This was an total and utter failure in my opinion & am going to go forward pretending this does not exist.
Jabari is an ancient Werecat & Witch. We have gotten to know him through the Jacky Leon series & I have found him utterly fascinating. But this novella let him down in a big way. This novella's version of Jabari is completely different to the one we know in the Jacky Leon series, its like he has a complete personality change and for the worse. He is bitter, has anger management problems, cruel, boring & no real personality at all. All we get of him is anger lash outs & him becoming a sex fiend. It was a total let down.
Aisha is an utterly worthless character. This book for her was, she loves her son, she raised her son to be happy & I kept everything a secret. She had ZERO personality what so ever. No likes or dislikes, no hobbies, no job, no friends & just nothing. Her only act in this book, is teaching her son, boss everyone around & sex fiend, that's it. Just like Jabari, both characters were worthless and might as well not have even been in the book.
Makalo was a bit more interesting, because he was actually a character. We got his likes, dislikes, favorites & his personality shone through. He was not a perfect character but he was the only one we really got.
The only thing I liked about this novella, was that we got to see a bit of Subira & the siblings in the end, including Kushim, who I utterly adore. I also liked it answered the questions that were brought up in the Jacky Leon series about this novella. Other than that, it was terrible & I DO NOT recommend that anyone read this. You can go about reading the Jacky Leon series without this novella.
K.N. Banet has created such an incredible world & two phenomenal series, Jacky Leon & Everly Abbott. I have read both series to date & that was why I read this novella, because things in this novella was mentioned in the Jacky Leon series. I was looking forward to Jabari finding love & mating, but I did not enjoy this as all. This was an total and utter failure in my opinion & am going to go forward pretending this does not exist.
Jabari is an ancient Werecat & Witch. We have gotten to know him through the Jacky Leon series & I have found him utterly fascinating. But this novella let him down in a big way. This novella's version of Jabari is completely different to the one we know in the Jacky Leon series, its like he has a complete personality change and for the worse. He is bitter, has anger management problems, cruel, boring & no real personality at all. All we get of him is anger lash outs & him becoming a sex fiend. It was a total let down.
Aisha is an utterly worthless character. This book for her was, she loves her son, she raised her son to be happy & I kept everything a secret. She had ZERO personality what so ever. No likes or dislikes, no hobbies, no job, no friends & just nothing. Her only act in this book, is teaching her son, boss everyone around & sex fiend, that's it. Just like Jabari, both characters were worthless and might as well not have even been in the book.
Makalo was a bit more interesting, because he was actually a character. We got his likes, dislikes, favorites & his personality shone through. He was not a perfect character but he was the only one we really got.
The only thing I liked about this novella, was that we got to see a bit of Subira & the siblings in the end, including Kushim, who I utterly adore. I also liked it answered the questions that were brought up in the Jacky Leon series about this novella. Other than that, it was terrible & I DO NOT recommend that anyone read this. You can go about reading the Jacky Leon series without this novella.
January 23, 2022
“I want you, I need you, but there ain’t no way I’m ever gonna love you.” (Meatloaf wrote this song with Jabari in mind)
Jabari lost his mate centuries ago, rendering him unable to love again. He knew he would never find someone who could equal what he had with her. Then he met Aisha.
I have been fascinated with Jabari, “The General,” since first reading of him in the series. While he had a very harsh and stoic demeanor, there were flashes of compassion that was intriguing: Now we understand the reason. Unfortunately for Aisha, after a long passionate time together, Jabari breaks her heart by ending the relationship. Though not before he fathered her child.
Fast forward past an unexpected pregnancy, Jabari’s loyalty to ensuring the survival of the Were-cat family, and we learn Jabari has passed more than were-cat genes to his child, and it will take almost all the magic the family has to save him.
Banet created the perfect mother in Aisha; strong, intelligent, and loving, yet strict while instilling important life lesson in her son.
Seeing the sparks and emotions both characters endure as they try to see past the obstacles to a HEA was very enjoyable. Aisha is just what the were-cat family needs to see past the hurt and judgment that they pass on each other. No one, not even Hasan can quell her spirit.
I cannot wait to read of the future hurdles and triumphs of the Tribunal Archives, “cause I would do anything for love….”
Jabari lost his mate centuries ago, rendering him unable to love again. He knew he would never find someone who could equal what he had with her. Then he met Aisha.
I have been fascinated with Jabari, “The General,” since first reading of him in the series. While he had a very harsh and stoic demeanor, there were flashes of compassion that was intriguing: Now we understand the reason. Unfortunately for Aisha, after a long passionate time together, Jabari breaks her heart by ending the relationship. Though not before he fathered her child.
Fast forward past an unexpected pregnancy, Jabari’s loyalty to ensuring the survival of the Were-cat family, and we learn Jabari has passed more than were-cat genes to his child, and it will take almost all the magic the family has to save him.
Banet created the perfect mother in Aisha; strong, intelligent, and loving, yet strict while instilling important life lesson in her son.
Seeing the sparks and emotions both characters endure as they try to see past the obstacles to a HEA was very enjoyable. Aisha is just what the were-cat family needs to see past the hurt and judgment that they pass on each other. No one, not even Hasan can quell her spirit.
I cannot wait to read of the future hurdles and triumphs of the Tribunal Archives, “cause I would do anything for love….”
February 6, 2022
Soooo....
This just became one of my favorites in this universe. I adore Jacky, but some of her books are just hard to get through because I am moody reader and also, I hate reading about hardships. I mean, hardships are needed in a book, I know that. But jeezzz, poor Jacky can get hit hard and for a long portion of the book and that's just...well, pues me apendejo toda! Asi soy, llorona🤣
Anyway, this book.
I loved the honesty in every freaking page, even while those thoughts or shared words were brutal. Hasta antipaticas. But is part of the reason I liked it, seems real.
Aisha, (like dear Jacky) is written in a way that make it impossible to dislike her. You admire her and root for her.
Makalo is a dream, such a sweet and brave boy. *y ya me imagino como sera la vaina con la nena de Heath 😬🤣🤣🤣)
Jabari...dude...I knew, I KNEW you were worth it!
Hasan and the rest. So many feelings! I am mad at some, disappointed at others. In love or close to that, with the rest.
Oh and was it me or did it had some inconsistencies? Nothing that threw me out but while re reading Jacky's books...yeah.
Ohhh and the last quarter of the book? Made me cry almost non stop. I'm actually writing this with a stuffy nose🤣
So yeah, loved it. My emotions were all over the place, from laughter to ugly crying with some scenes.
All it needed to be even more beautiful? I wanted to meet Aisha's dad.
*sigh*
This just became one of my favorites in this universe. I adore Jacky, but some of her books are just hard to get through because I am moody reader and also, I hate reading about hardships. I mean, hardships are needed in a book, I know that. But jeezzz, poor Jacky can get hit hard and for a long portion of the book and that's just...well, pues me apendejo toda! Asi soy, llorona🤣
Anyway, this book.
I loved the honesty in every freaking page, even while those thoughts or shared words were brutal. Hasta antipaticas. But is part of the reason I liked it, seems real.
Aisha, (like dear Jacky) is written in a way that make it impossible to dislike her. You admire her and root for her.
Makalo is a dream, such a sweet and brave boy. *y ya me imagino como sera la vaina con la nena de Heath 😬🤣🤣🤣)
Jabari...dude...I knew, I KNEW you were worth it!
Hasan and the rest. So many feelings! I am mad at some, disappointed at others. In love or close to that, with the rest.
Oh and was it me or did it had some inconsistencies? Nothing that threw me out but while re reading Jacky's books...yeah.
Ohhh and the last quarter of the book? Made me cry almost non stop. I'm actually writing this with a stuffy nose🤣
So yeah, loved it. My emotions were all over the place, from laughter to ugly crying with some scenes.
All it needed to be even more beautiful? I wanted to meet Aisha's dad.
*sigh*
January 7, 2026
(FYI I tend to only review one book per series, unless I want to change my scoring by 0.50 or more of a star. -- I tend not to read reviews until after I read a book, so I go in with an open mind.)
Thought I posted a review for this ages ago.
Set in the same world as the Jacky Leon books, in which Jabari is a character, I don't think you need to have read them before, but I'm not posting this after just reading the book to be able to recall if my knowing him from Jacky's books helped understand this one. Sorry.
First time read the author's work?: No
Will you be reading more?: Yes
Would you recommend?: Yes
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
Thought I posted a review for this ages ago.
Set in the same world as the Jacky Leon books, in which Jabari is a character, I don't think you need to have read them before, but I'm not posting this after just reading the book to be able to recall if my knowing him from Jacky's books helped understand this one. Sorry.
First time read the author's work?: No
Will you be reading more?: Yes
Would you recommend?: Yes
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
January 17, 2022
So much love for this. Jabari and Aisha's story is a fully stand alone novel. You do NOT need to have read any other Tribunal World books to follow along, although the glimpses you get into Jabari's family from this one will surely have you running down the other series if you have not already.
Aisha is such an amazing woman and werecat. When she finds herself in a position of choosing what is best for her son, she does it, come hell or war with the strongest werecat family in the world. I love how she raised her son and never once doubted the sacrifice. I could go on, but really, you've got to read this and get to know her for yourself!
Jabari has been a lot of fans favorite since he stopped being such an ass to Jackie. But... he was still a stiff, stubborn ass in a lot of ways. Aisha and Makalo are just the 2 stubborn werecats he needs to pull him out of his depressed, obstinate frame of mind and give him new meaning. For thousands of years Jabari has been the General. Aisha and Makalo teach him he can be more.
I look forward to more glimpses of these 3, although this one is a standalone, I have no doubt we'll get to see more of them in future Tribunal stories, and I cannot wait!
Aisha is such an amazing woman and werecat. When she finds herself in a position of choosing what is best for her son, she does it, come hell or war with the strongest werecat family in the world. I love how she raised her son and never once doubted the sacrifice. I could go on, but really, you've got to read this and get to know her for yourself!
Jabari has been a lot of fans favorite since he stopped being such an ass to Jackie. But... he was still a stiff, stubborn ass in a lot of ways. Aisha and Makalo are just the 2 stubborn werecats he needs to pull him out of his depressed, obstinate frame of mind and give him new meaning. For thousands of years Jabari has been the General. Aisha and Makalo teach him he can be more.
I look forward to more glimpses of these 3, although this one is a standalone, I have no doubt we'll get to see more of them in future Tribunal stories, and I cannot wait!
January 21, 2022
Tugs at the heart string
I am truly going to miss reading abt Aisha, Makalo and Jabari and hope they are sprinkled in a story or two. K.N. Banet never misses!! When I tell you this book had me crying more than once. I think If you are an older sibling who gives your all to your younger sibling or just a person used to giving more, this will pull at you. It must be an amazing thing to have someone fight for you when you are the one always ready for battle.
Anyhoo back to this storyline. Aisha is a strong, confident woman who falls in love with a man unable and unwilling to do the same. And he shatters her heart but leaves her something more precious.
You learn so much abt what makes Jabari tick and all he has gone through to become the strong silent guy we know. You also see all the reasons why Aisha caught his eye initially. Jabari has to learn to bend, compromise and just live a little.
The family has to face some hard truths and there is bit of a twist and some surprises at the end. It's abt family and all the joys and pitfalls that come with it. Beautiful story and a must read. I hope we get more standalones on others in the family. This even peaked my interest in Mischa. I can't wait till the next book and sad I finished this in a day.
I am truly going to miss reading abt Aisha, Makalo and Jabari and hope they are sprinkled in a story or two. K.N. Banet never misses!! When I tell you this book had me crying more than once. I think If you are an older sibling who gives your all to your younger sibling or just a person used to giving more, this will pull at you. It must be an amazing thing to have someone fight for you when you are the one always ready for battle.
Anyhoo back to this storyline. Aisha is a strong, confident woman who falls in love with a man unable and unwilling to do the same. And he shatters her heart but leaves her something more precious.
You learn so much abt what makes Jabari tick and all he has gone through to become the strong silent guy we know. You also see all the reasons why Aisha caught his eye initially. Jabari has to learn to bend, compromise and just live a little.
The family has to face some hard truths and there is bit of a twist and some surprises at the end. It's abt family and all the joys and pitfalls that come with it. Beautiful story and a must read. I hope we get more standalones on others in the family. This even peaked my interest in Mischa. I can't wait till the next book and sad I finished this in a day.
July 27, 2022
A good addition to fill out some of the side characters of the Jacky Leon series. Jabari has been pretty much just a shadow figure known as the general. Here you see him falling in love, making mistakes and see some of the past that has shaped him. Aisha is a good match for him. At first, she seemed like she was just a rogue who liked to sample what the world was like. A free spirit is a great thing but she didn't seem like she had the strength of will to stand up to him. That changed when she was fighting for her son. She would go up against any one, including Hasan, the leader of the werecats, to protect him and prevent her son from becoming just one more pawn in the political power to secure power for the werecats. She also had no problem calling Hasan on his own blind spots about how unhappy some of his children were and how their own infighting which he only saw as some snipping was being very detrimental and could destroy them from the inside.
This can be read alone but there is a lot of context that you miss about the world and some the characters mentioned in the book if you have not read anything in the Tribunal Archives world.
This can be read alone but there is a lot of context that you miss about the world and some the characters mentioned in the book if you have not read anything in the Tribunal Archives world.
October 10, 2025
Maybe a 3.5? While I enjoyed seeing more of Jabari and Aisha, I just wasn't that drawn into the story. The plot drug for me - especially in the middle - and the action and eventual "I'm going to own this and win" attitudes came at the very end of the book. It's basically a lovers to enemies (sort of) to lovers romance with a couple of questionable HUGE decisions in the mix. Rationale for those decisions - when finally shared - made sense but getting there was a journey for certain. I liked many of the parenting comments from Aisha (too bad most didn't work with her relationships) but had problems believing Malalo was so wonderfully perfect when they had been so totally isolated. I have to admit though, Aisha's verbal dialogue to the family - mostly Hassan - was pretty priceless!
The author warns of triggers for both depression/suicide and graphic sex. With the warnings, I just can't see knocking down a rating - skim over it or don't read it. IMHO
Overall, a decent add to the Jacky Leon series. This is a standalone, but Jacky's story is referenced repeatedly and is helpful in a few areas for background info. I do plan to continue with Jacky's series.
The author warns of triggers for both depression/suicide and graphic sex. With the warnings, I just can't see knocking down a rating - skim over it or don't read it. IMHO
Overall, a decent add to the Jacky Leon series. This is a standalone, but Jacky's story is referenced repeatedly and is helpful in a few areas for background info. I do plan to continue with Jacky's series.
January 17, 2022
This book was PHENOMENAL!
This book takes place after Rogue Alpha in the Jacky Leon series. Hearts at War is a much deeper look into Jabari's life. (Jackie's oldest werecat sibling) The secrets that are revealed to him, and by him are PHENOMENAL!
This novel is another example of Kristen Banet's amazing talent. I just fell in love with Aisha, and Makalo. I was on the fence with Jabari until this book. I thought he was just another ancient stuck in his old ways, and in the past, and in a way he was, but by the end of this novel he seemed to be a different person. More healed, and happy, along with more hope for the future. Not only with his little family, but with his siblings too.
My only downside was I am really starting to hate the witches in this universe. It doesn't matter which series you're reading every encounter with them is hostile, and life threatening. Who knows what Kristen will have in store for us next, but I can barely wait.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy (ARC) of this book.
This book takes place after Rogue Alpha in the Jacky Leon series. Hearts at War is a much deeper look into Jabari's life. (Jackie's oldest werecat sibling) The secrets that are revealed to him, and by him are PHENOMENAL!
This novel is another example of Kristen Banet's amazing talent. I just fell in love with Aisha, and Makalo. I was on the fence with Jabari until this book. I thought he was just another ancient stuck in his old ways, and in the past, and in a way he was, but by the end of this novel he seemed to be a different person. More healed, and happy, along with more hope for the future. Not only with his little family, but with his siblings too.
My only downside was I am really starting to hate the witches in this universe. It doesn't matter which series you're reading every encounter with them is hostile, and life threatening. Who knows what Kristen will have in store for us next, but I can barely wait.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy (ARC) of this book.
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