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All for Love #1
Pretty Caged Bird
“All that glitters, isn’t gold.”
Amina Coltrain always felt like she was born into the wrong family. The lifestyle of the rich and wealthy isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, at least not for Amina. She would gladly trade in her ball gowns, fancy dinners, and arranged marriage for a pair of sweats, movie nights with her best friend, and a man that she can love at her own free will. But having a mother as controlling as Winnie Coltrain proves that even the simplest of dreams don’t come true without a fight. Will she conform to what is expected of her, or does she fight for her right to live a life she chooses?
Gray Porter is a hometown barber whose main concern in life is taking care of his mother and siblings. After his father dies tragically when he is sixteen, he takes it upon himself to fill his shoes. Years later, his mother is dating, and his siblings are almost grown, leaving Gray to finally live life for himself. When he falls for Amina, his world is turned upside down in more ways than one. Will the woman who became the love of his life be the reason he loses everything?
Amina Coltrain always felt like she was born into the wrong family. The lifestyle of the rich and wealthy isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, at least not for Amina. She would gladly trade in her ball gowns, fancy dinners, and arranged marriage for a pair of sweats, movie nights with her best friend, and a man that she can love at her own free will. But having a mother as controlling as Winnie Coltrain proves that even the simplest of dreams don’t come true without a fight. Will she conform to what is expected of her, or does she fight for her right to live a life she chooses?
Gray Porter is a hometown barber whose main concern in life is taking care of his mother and siblings. After his father dies tragically when he is sixteen, he takes it upon himself to fill his shoes. Years later, his mother is dating, and his siblings are almost grown, leaving Gray to finally live life for himself. When he falls for Amina, his world is turned upside down in more ways than one. Will the woman who became the love of his life be the reason he loses everything?
196 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 12, 2021
307 people are currently reading
514 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Brown
52 books1,837 followersKimberly Brown is a South Carolina born and raised author of contemporary/urban romance. She strives to create stories that readers can visualize in their heads as the pages turn. Writing has been a part of her journey since a young age but really became a focal point during her high school years. With the support of her classmates, she began sharing her love of words with others. In 2019 she took her first step towards becoming a serious writer with self-publishing. August of 2021, she made her BLP debut with “Pretty Caged Bird” and is continuing to grow her catalog. With a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a pending masters in Mental Health Counseling, Kimberly loves to incorporate mental health into her writings as she feels it is not talked about or address enough within the African American community.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews
January 4, 2023
KB!!! Sis these men in your books are everything! Just when I think I have my favorite you go an create a magnificent 6’2 260lb big dxck slangin king named Gray!! From their very first encounter at the club Gray and Amina had me blushing too hard! Amina was a 25 year old that was treated like anything but an adult by her mother. Let me just say this, y’all authors know y’all can’t write some mothers from hell 🥴. Winnie Coltrain was a piece of work!!! Amina lived a very privileged, very sheltered life and her every move was planned out from birth. Her mother wanted her to live a life full of prestige and with an arranged marriage on the horizon Amina knew she had to work up the courage to break free from the shackles of Winnie. With the constant support of her bff Julissa, Amina was finally able to stand up to Winnie and reclaim her time. This unfortunately didn’t come without vindictive consequences. Man that whole scene at Amina’s celebration dinner had me heated! Winnie would’ve had to see me if I was Julissa! The disrespect was loud and wrong! Gray definitely made my book bae list after the way he rode hard for his mom, siblings and Amina. After losing his father and essentially becoming the man of the house he had a period in his life where he was forced to do things he wasn’t proud of to provide for his family. Now that he’s making money the legal way and working hard to carry on the legacy of his father he’s ready to settle down and make his house a home. Amina and Gray gave me all the feels. They were a spicy couple and I love the way Gray reaffirmed Amina and helped her build her confidence. I hope we get more from this couple in Julissa’s book which I’m excited for! Julissa was such a loveable character and I really wanna see her win!
January 30, 2022
I detest reading books out of order. I had no idea Amina and Julissa had their own books until I read someone else's review AFTER I read With Everything In Me. If you're not going to list these books as a series, please consider adding some kind of footnote in the synopsis to let your readers know (especially your new readers) that these books are crossovers and certain books should be read first. Because I read Ross' book first, the reveal about Amina's mama was pretty much ruined for me. There was no element of surprise. But, I digress. I have read some books with horrible mamas but, that damn Winnie Coltrain has officially taken the number one spot. That woman was evil! When I tell y'all she put on an Oscar worthy performance as the villain of this story. Whew chile! I have never wanted to slap the piss out of somebody so bad! The audacity of this woman will blow your mind. Poor Amina! All she wanted to do was assert her independence and make her own decisions regarding her life. As she was a 25 year old grown woman, this should not have been a problem but Winnie would have you think Amina was a 5 year old they way she wanted to control her. My heart just broke for her because of the way her egg doner treated her. When Winnie pulled up on Amina at the club then, had the audacity to put her hands on her, had me ready to take my hoops off and grease my face down with Vaseline. That woman was a f*cking menace! But, thank God for Gray. I loved that he didn't let Winnie's horrific behavior deter him from pursing Amina. Even after that train wreck of a dinner and the shyt she did to Gray didn't stop him from falling in love with Amina. And, the way his mama read Winnie's azz for filth was my favorite part of this book. Yaaaassss Ms. Sheila! If "what you won't do" was a person, it was Ms. Sheila. Julissa is the best friend we all deserve. She was Amina's ride or die and had absolutely no problem telling Winnie to kiss her azz. Pretty Caged Bird was a magnificent read. It's definitely a 5-star book and the only reason I didn't rate it 5-stars is because of the author's consistent incorrect word usage. There are also times when some of the sentences are incomplete and words are missing letters. I implore you to hire an editor and, if by chance you do have one, fire them immediately because they are NOT doing the job you hired them to do. That's just my little two cents. Other than this small complaint, Pretty Caged Bird is definitely a book you want to add to your TBR. It is worthy of all the time you have to give. Kimberly Brown has quickly become a favorite author to read.
August 26, 2024
I enjoyed Amenia's and Grey's story so much. I did feel like this being one of KB's earlier works showed. But I still liked it a lot. KB has become one of my favorites and an auto buy author. Happy reading!
May 27, 2022
I Love This Story
Amina went through a lot with that witch of a mother…I was happy that her father was in her corner and wanted to see her happy…When she met Gray, sparks flew immediately….as a couple they had a lot to endure… fortunately, they had the love and support of other family members and friends and was able to find their HEA.
Amina went through a lot with that witch of a mother…I was happy that her father was in her corner and wanted to see her happy…When she met Gray, sparks flew immediately….as a couple they had a lot to endure… fortunately, they had the love and support of other family members and friends and was able to find their HEA.
April 27, 2022
GREAT READ
This author is new to me and I enjoyed every moment of this book. Amina was definitely a caged bird dying to be freed from the controls of her mother. That woman was relentless and got on my nerve to no end. And the lengths she went to just to hurt Amina was unforgivable. I loved Amina's friendship with Julissa. Julissa was her ride or die. What i loved about Amina was her strong will and determination to get out there and do her own thing. Meeting Gray was all the motivation she needed because the attraction these two had was undeniable. Gray was a good man who has made choices and sacrificed for those he loved. All he needed was someone he could find happiness and build a future with. Amina was his person and he was hers. Overall a great read and the title definitely fit the storyline. Never allow anyone to have control of your life and stop you from seeking goals, finding love and just enjoying your independence. Looking forward to Book 2 with Julissa
This author is new to me and I enjoyed every moment of this book. Amina was definitely a caged bird dying to be freed from the controls of her mother. That woman was relentless and got on my nerve to no end. And the lengths she went to just to hurt Amina was unforgivable. I loved Amina's friendship with Julissa. Julissa was her ride or die. What i loved about Amina was her strong will and determination to get out there and do her own thing. Meeting Gray was all the motivation she needed because the attraction these two had was undeniable. Gray was a good man who has made choices and sacrificed for those he loved. All he needed was someone he could find happiness and build a future with. Amina was his person and he was hers. Overall a great read and the title definitely fit the storyline. Never allow anyone to have control of your life and stop you from seeking goals, finding love and just enjoying your independence. Looking forward to Book 2 with Julissa
March 16, 2022
Amina and Gray
I absolutely loved this story. I found myself chuckling in spots and getting teary eyed in others. Amina’s mom and brother… whew chile! They made my skin crawl. However, despite them, she had an amazing support system. I loved her dad and Julissa!
Gray was the perfect book bae. He was everything! What’s so fascinating to me is that when it was time to leave this review, I didn’t forget anyones names. I usually have an extremely short memory. 😆 But this story was so good until I remember even the sub characters’ names! 🤣
Thank you for an amazingly entertaining story! ❤️
I absolutely loved this story. I found myself chuckling in spots and getting teary eyed in others. Amina’s mom and brother… whew chile! They made my skin crawl. However, despite them, she had an amazing support system. I loved her dad and Julissa!
Gray was the perfect book bae. He was everything! What’s so fascinating to me is that when it was time to leave this review, I didn’t forget anyones names. I usually have an extremely short memory. 😆 But this story was so good until I remember even the sub characters’ names! 🤣
Thank you for an amazingly entertaining story! ❤️
December 6, 2024
This was such a good read. I couldn’t put the book down. I didn’t know I could hate a character so much. Amina’s mother actions were disgusting!!! I’m glad Amina’s dad came to his senses. I loved Amina’s and Grays relationship. I’m glad they got their happy ending!! ❤️ I can’t wait to read about Julissa.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2023
Easily. Easily 4 stars.
Disclaimer - there are a few errors but luckily you'll be too distracted by the big dick chocolate man.
Loved their relationship LOVED sis A. She just did it for me, I actually have no complaints 😂😂😂.
We not gon talk about the big dick slinger, we're not doing that at all💀.
I was giggling too fucking much with this😂😂KB you had a girl kicking her feet putting this read to the side to be able to calm down from all the damn fluff.
The dialogue???? One thing about KB she will serve you dialogue!!! The chemistry with all the characters??? Mncccchhht
Disclaimer - there are a few errors but luckily you'll be too distracted by the big dick chocolate man.
Loved their relationship LOVED sis A. She just did it for me, I actually have no complaints 😂😂😂.
We not gon talk about the big dick slinger, we're not doing that at all💀.
I was giggling too fucking much with this😂😂KB you had a girl kicking her feet putting this read to the side to be able to calm down from all the damn fluff.
The dialogue???? One thing about KB she will serve you dialogue!!! The chemistry with all the characters??? Mncccchhht
April 25, 2024
This book was beautiful. Seeing the struggle on both sides whether it be higher class or lower class was expelled perfectly. I loved how Amina was able to be happy and stand up to her mom. I’m really excited for Julissa story!
February 21, 2025
This book right here, got me out of a reading slump! This book had me screaming, shouting, and then crying my eyes out. This book touches your heart. Please pick up this book and read it. I think I found me a new favorite author!!!
August 24, 2021
Amina Ɛ Gray
First of all, the award for the absolute worst mother ever goes to...Winnie Coltrain. The audacity of that woman. The way she treated Amina was so vile, I hated reading about it. The story was pretty enjoyable, but super predictable. It was like a Tyler Perry movie. (Early to mid 2000 Typer Perry). Winnie reminded me of the mother in Madea's Family Reunion- Lynn Whitfield's character. I loved Amina, she was a fighter. When she decided she's had enough, it was over. Julissa was the perfect friend. I would love to read her story. Gray was something else. Loved him as well. Though it usually takes me about a day or two to read a book, this one took me a while to finish it. Almost a week and it wasn't even that long. First time reading this author's work. Few errors, few misplaced words here and there, but I'd read more from her and those sex scene were outrageous. But, give it a try.
First of all, the award for the absolute worst mother ever goes to...Winnie Coltrain. The audacity of that woman. The way she treated Amina was so vile, I hated reading about it. The story was pretty enjoyable, but super predictable. It was like a Tyler Perry movie. (Early to mid 2000 Typer Perry). Winnie reminded me of the mother in Madea's Family Reunion- Lynn Whitfield's character. I loved Amina, she was a fighter. When she decided she's had enough, it was over. Julissa was the perfect friend. I would love to read her story. Gray was something else. Loved him as well. Though it usually takes me about a day or two to read a book, this one took me a while to finish it. Almost a week and it wasn't even that long. First time reading this author's work. Few errors, few misplaced words here and there, but I'd read more from her and those sex scene were outrageous. But, give it a try.
November 15, 2021
I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings
WOW! That was so good. I wasn't quite sure what all I would get from Amina and Grays story, yet I'm so glad I read this book. This one definitely took me on an emotional rollercoaster.
Amina Coltrain had a good life to anyone looking from the outside in. Yet that mother of hers, Winnie Coltrain, was pure evil; there really aren't many more words or ways to describe her. My heart broke for Amina with each of her mother's antics. Her brother, Jeremiah was the same as his mom and that was a shame as well. It's one thing to try to control your grown child, yet to go to the measures her mother did were shameful. To do what she did to Julissa... disgusting and despicable 🤦🏾♀️. Then, to do what she did to Gray... deplorable. I'm glad Aminas' dad, Edward Coltrain, came to his senses and saw his wife for who she'd become; her other brother Anthony too. I loved how Amina had Gray's front, back and sides. She was a bit clueless at times, yet she stick to her guns and fought for her independence.
Gray Porter was a man after my own heart. The way he went so hard for his family after his dad died when he was just 16 was very admirable of him. He was just becoming a man himself, so he could've just focused on himself, yet he went over and beyond for his mother and 3 younger siblings. I loved that even though he was their brother, they respected him as a father figure. I loved their relationship's and how open and real they could be with Gray, yet still respect and hold certain boundaries with him. Gray didn't like that he had to result to getting money how he did to help his family, yet he saw it as a means to an end and was smart with his money during that time. I really liked that about him. He could've stayed in the game, yet he got out just in time. I loved that he kept his father's barbershop going. Gray was such a fresh gulp of air to read about.
Even though it could've cost him his freedom, I'm glad he handled Chaz the way he did. He could've done so many bad things to him, yet he handled the situation like a man who cares and understands; a man who was once in similar shoes.
I could go on and on, yet I'll just state that this book is a must read. So much was packed in this short read. I'll definitely be reading more about Julissa and Cody because I'm sure it'll be hilarious and just as good as the rest of the books from Kimberly Brown.
Great read. Highly recommend.
WOW! That was so good. I wasn't quite sure what all I would get from Amina and Grays story, yet I'm so glad I read this book. This one definitely took me on an emotional rollercoaster.
Amina Coltrain had a good life to anyone looking from the outside in. Yet that mother of hers, Winnie Coltrain, was pure evil; there really aren't many more words or ways to describe her. My heart broke for Amina with each of her mother's antics. Her brother, Jeremiah was the same as his mom and that was a shame as well. It's one thing to try to control your grown child, yet to go to the measures her mother did were shameful. To do what she did to Julissa... disgusting and despicable 🤦🏾♀️. Then, to do what she did to Gray... deplorable. I'm glad Aminas' dad, Edward Coltrain, came to his senses and saw his wife for who she'd become; her other brother Anthony too. I loved how Amina had Gray's front, back and sides. She was a bit clueless at times, yet she stick to her guns and fought for her independence.
Gray Porter was a man after my own heart. The way he went so hard for his family after his dad died when he was just 16 was very admirable of him. He was just becoming a man himself, so he could've just focused on himself, yet he went over and beyond for his mother and 3 younger siblings. I loved that even though he was their brother, they respected him as a father figure. I loved their relationship's and how open and real they could be with Gray, yet still respect and hold certain boundaries with him. Gray didn't like that he had to result to getting money how he did to help his family, yet he saw it as a means to an end and was smart with his money during that time. I really liked that about him. He could've stayed in the game, yet he got out just in time. I loved that he kept his father's barbershop going. Gray was such a fresh gulp of air to read about.
Even though it could've cost him his freedom, I'm glad he handled Chaz the way he did. He could've done so many bad things to him, yet he handled the situation like a man who cares and understands; a man who was once in similar shoes.
I could go on and on, yet I'll just state that this book is a must read. So much was packed in this short read. I'll definitely be reading more about Julissa and Cody because I'm sure it'll be hilarious and just as good as the rest of the books from Kimberly Brown.
Great read. Highly recommend.
August 15, 2021
Whew child, I need more of this couple💕
Oh-kay Queen Kimberly B done came on the scene and hit a home run with her get first release👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾.
Let's address Winnie aka Amina's egg donor🙄😒. That miserable, scheming bih got the reality check she needed and everything that happened to her she deserved it and them some. Like the levels she went through to manipulate and control her daughter😔😡. I wish they would've let Julissa tag hey ass like she really wanted to. She talked down to everyone else but at the end of the day she was a classless, bitter, miserable bih😒.
Admins daddy got his mind right the moment Amina told him how she really felt. That is the only reason he gets a pass, cause that ninja went toe to toe with everybody behind his baby like a father is supposed to.
Julissa and Ross were definitely friend goals and kept me laughing with their shenanigans.
I was praying that Gray fine sexy ass beat the brakes off Amina brother Jeremiah bih ass one good time. His ol miserable ass was just like his momma😔.
Now Gray was the perfect combination of hood and book smart. To do all he did to ensure his mom and siblings were good. To make sure he was smart about the moves he made, investing to insure they were set for life👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾. He was the best man for Amina and the way he gave her all that But🍆😜💦 Amina finally living for her, speaking up for herself and going after what made her happy made me proud. I honestly believe her egg donor was jealous🤷🏽
She definitely deserved all the happiness that came with her stepping out on faith and choosing herself above everything and everybody else.
Miles was just a bih, with his ol crying to his momma cause he got dumped punk ass Chauncey😒🤣.
Definitely A Must Read!!!
Oh-kay Queen Kimberly B done came on the scene and hit a home run with her get first release👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾.
Let's address Winnie aka Amina's egg donor🙄😒. That miserable, scheming bih got the reality check she needed and everything that happened to her she deserved it and them some. Like the levels she went through to manipulate and control her daughter😔😡. I wish they would've let Julissa tag hey ass like she really wanted to. She talked down to everyone else but at the end of the day she was a classless, bitter, miserable bih😒.
Admins daddy got his mind right the moment Amina told him how she really felt. That is the only reason he gets a pass, cause that ninja went toe to toe with everybody behind his baby like a father is supposed to.
Julissa and Ross were definitely friend goals and kept me laughing with their shenanigans.
I was praying that Gray fine sexy ass beat the brakes off Amina brother Jeremiah bih ass one good time. His ol miserable ass was just like his momma😔.
Now Gray was the perfect combination of hood and book smart. To do all he did to ensure his mom and siblings were good. To make sure he was smart about the moves he made, investing to insure they were set for life👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾. He was the best man for Amina and the way he gave her all that But🍆😜💦 Amina finally living for her, speaking up for herself and going after what made her happy made me proud. I honestly believe her egg donor was jealous🤷🏽
She definitely deserved all the happiness that came with her stepping out on faith and choosing herself above everything and everybody else.
Miles was just a bih, with his ol crying to his momma cause he got dumped punk ass Chauncey😒🤣.
Definitely A Must Read!!!
September 18, 2021
Debut❗
Okay and this review is going to go a little something like this, Ms. Brown you are starting off on your literary journey swinging 🥊. If this is going to be your foundation for what's to come, I am all in. You wrote ✍️ the *beep* out of this book.
Gray and Amina story was not short of the drama, crooks, and curve balls thrown at it. They managed to muster through it all and fall head over heels in love. I loved how shelter Amina was but wasn't at the same time. It was a few things she wasn't an expert on but she was very intelligent and strong enough to have her own mind. She knew what she wanted and what was offered to her wasn't it. I loved how Gray played multiple roles in his family lives from a son to a father figure. He made sure to instill great morals and values in his siblings. I love their story so much, I am low key hoping 🤞 that Julissa's story is birthed from this book. If it is then we can get updates on Gray and Amina.
This is a magnificent read, especially when its a debut. You will be so entertained until you read the whole novel in a few hours. You will be anticipating what is going to happen next. You will also be amazed at how controlling and far Amina's mother go to "try" to get her way. I was astonished how well the dialogue was between all of the characters, it was on point. I most definitely recommend this book, and I am looking forward to Ms. Brown next release.
Okay and this review is going to go a little something like this, Ms. Brown you are starting off on your literary journey swinging 🥊. If this is going to be your foundation for what's to come, I am all in. You wrote ✍️ the *beep* out of this book.
Gray and Amina story was not short of the drama, crooks, and curve balls thrown at it. They managed to muster through it all and fall head over heels in love. I loved how shelter Amina was but wasn't at the same time. It was a few things she wasn't an expert on but she was very intelligent and strong enough to have her own mind. She knew what she wanted and what was offered to her wasn't it. I loved how Gray played multiple roles in his family lives from a son to a father figure. He made sure to instill great morals and values in his siblings. I love their story so much, I am low key hoping 🤞 that Julissa's story is birthed from this book. If it is then we can get updates on Gray and Amina.
This is a magnificent read, especially when its a debut. You will be so entertained until you read the whole novel in a few hours. You will be anticipating what is going to happen next. You will also be amazed at how controlling and far Amina's mother go to "try" to get her way. I was astonished how well the dialogue was between all of the characters, it was on point. I most definitely recommend this book, and I am looking forward to Ms. Brown next release.
October 19, 2021
Awesome Read
Each book I read by this author, gets better and better. I enjoyed everything about this standalone. Enjoyed the storyline and these characters, it was so refreshing and different. The plot was on point and it flowed really well at a steady pace. I loved Gray and Amina, their instant attraction and chemistry was just sparks. Julissa, was definitely a true friend and they had each others back. That so-called mother was so controlling and manipulative but in the end she got exactly what she deserved. I was so glad the pretty caged girl, got her wings and true live. Highly recommend this standalone. Awesome job Kimberly Brown.
Each book I read by this author, gets better and better. I enjoyed everything about this standalone. Enjoyed the storyline and these characters, it was so refreshing and different. The plot was on point and it flowed really well at a steady pace. I loved Gray and Amina, their instant attraction and chemistry was just sparks. Julissa, was definitely a true friend and they had each others back. That so-called mother was so controlling and manipulative but in the end she got exactly what she deserved. I was so glad the pretty caged girl, got her wings and true live. Highly recommend this standalone. Awesome job Kimberly Brown.
January 30, 2022
A Wild Ride
It took a minute for this book to really grab me. Once it did, I couldn’t wait to see what was in store for Gray and Amina. Their love story was really sweet. Both of them were surrounded by a great support system. I really enjoyed their bond with their friends and family. Amina was a little too whiny for me, but I still found her to be likable. Gray was absolutely majestic like only a Black man can be. I adored him. The drama in the book had me on the edge of my seat. I really loved to the way it all turned out. The ending was perfect.
It took a minute for this book to really grab me. Once it did, I couldn’t wait to see what was in store for Gray and Amina. Their love story was really sweet. Both of them were surrounded by a great support system. I really enjoyed their bond with their friends and family. Amina was a little too whiny for me, but I still found her to be likable. Gray was absolutely majestic like only a Black man can be. I adored him. The drama in the book had me on the edge of my seat. I really loved to the way it all turned out. The ending was perfect.
October 1, 2021
Great story
This was such a good story. I love the way that Gray and Amina loved each other. Good lord Amina’s mother was INSANE!! Everyone needs a friend like Julissa, she was such a ride or die friend to Amina. I’m so happy Amina broke free and lived her life for herself and not her family.
This was such a good story. I love the way that Gray and Amina loved each other. Good lord Amina’s mother was INSANE!! Everyone needs a friend like Julissa, she was such a ride or die friend to Amina. I’m so happy Amina broke free and lived her life for herself and not her family.
November 4, 2021
Bird Got Her Wings
Great debut novel. Loved this story. My heart went out to Amina having to live with that crazy mother. Thanks to her bestie, Julissa, (loved her), she met her soulmate, Gray. This is a must read.
Great debut novel. Loved this story. My heart went out to Amina having to live with that crazy mother. Thanks to her bestie, Julissa, (loved her), she met her soulmate, Gray. This is a must read.
August 15, 2021
Great Story!
When I say I LOVED this story!!! That Gray is some kinda man!😍 I liked that while Amina and Gray had instant chemistry, their relationship was really more of a slow burn. They really got to know each other first. He took the time to learn her and woo her. It was beautiful!🥰 I loved Amina's friendship with her bestie Julissa. Having her as a support system was key to Amina shaking off the shackles of her family's heavy demands. I also loved how some of her relationships with her family changed in the end. I really enjoyed this story, I hope Amina gets a story and her own HEA. 5 ⭐️ Stars!
When I say I LOVED this story!!! That Gray is some kinda man!😍 I liked that while Amina and Gray had instant chemistry, their relationship was really more of a slow burn. They really got to know each other first. He took the time to learn her and woo her. It was beautiful!🥰 I loved Amina's friendship with her bestie Julissa. Having her as a support system was key to Amina shaking off the shackles of her family's heavy demands. I also loved how some of her relationships with her family changed in the end. I really enjoyed this story, I hope Amina gets a story and her own HEA. 5 ⭐️ Stars!
September 18, 2022
Review
I loved the book. I hated Amina's mom for the way she treated her as well as her brother. Gray was a great man taking care of his family the way he did.
I loved the book. I hated Amina's mom for the way she treated her as well as her brother. Gray was a great man taking care of his family the way he did.
May 13, 2024
Ok
This was a cute read. That mother was just absolutely horrible. I loved Amina and Gray. I hope my girl Julissa find her happy.
This was a cute read. That mother was just absolutely horrible. I loved Amina and Gray. I hope my girl Julissa find her happy.
August 29, 2021
Free Bird!!
I truly enjoyed this love story between Amina and Gray!! Two people who meet and fall in love, while trying to avoid the pitfalls of meddling outside sources to keep them apart. Gray is so sexy and smart! I loved how he and Amina were written! This was a fantastic and engaging story from the beginning!
I truly enjoyed this love story between Amina and Gray!! Two people who meet and fall in love, while trying to avoid the pitfalls of meddling outside sources to keep them apart. Gray is so sexy and smart! I loved how he and Amina were written! This was a fantastic and engaging story from the beginning!
November 12, 2021
Read this
I enjoyed reading this book, but I would have enjoyed reading it more had I read it first. I didn’t realize that this book, Tame Me and With Everything in Me contained the same group of characters. I decided to read this book after enjoying With Everything in Me and wanting to read about the other characters. My experience would have been enhanced knowing that these books were related and that the timeline coincided. Because I was not aware of this the timeline of this book did not match consistently with when it should have taken place after reading With Everything in Me. To get the most out of the books I suggest starting with this one and then reading Tame Me and finish off reading With Everything in Me to enjoy the timeline of the story for these friends. I still recommend this book but the inconsistencies through me off.
I enjoyed reading this book, but I would have enjoyed reading it more had I read it first. I didn’t realize that this book, Tame Me and With Everything in Me contained the same group of characters. I decided to read this book after enjoying With Everything in Me and wanting to read about the other characters. My experience would have been enhanced knowing that these books were related and that the timeline coincided. Because I was not aware of this the timeline of this book did not match consistently with when it should have taken place after reading With Everything in Me. To get the most out of the books I suggest starting with this one and then reading Tame Me and finish off reading With Everything in Me to enjoy the timeline of the story for these friends. I still recommend this book but the inconsistencies through me off.
March 13, 2022
good
This was good and captivating. Winnie’s control over Amina was A LOT! Demented almost. Gray and Amina were a great couple. The typos were a bit much but the story was good enough for it not distract me as much. Good read.
This was good and captivating. Winnie’s control over Amina was A LOT! Demented almost. Gray and Amina were a great couple. The typos were a bit much but the story was good enough for it not distract me as much. Good read.
April 17, 2022
Fly little bird...
"If I had known that stepping out on my own would have led to this kind of happiness, I would have done it a long time ago. This pretty little caged bird had finally found her wings."
This is actually a reread and I failed to review it the first time around. Amina and Gray are everything and more. They were soul-stirring and hot as hell!
Amina, the youngest Coltraine has always lived in a gilded caged bound by whatever her mother - if you can call her that, Winnie says. Forced into an arrangement for marriage to a sniveling "mama's boy." There's nothing wrong with a son loving his mama because I hope mine will always love me, but running to her when you don't get your way...at your big age:PITIFUL!
Amina realizes she wants to live life on her terms. She wants to work, spend time with her girl Julissa, and be her own woman. Bucking the system leads her to Gray Porter. A whole entire meal that Amina is ready to devour. He's more than eye candy, he's food for her soul! These two complete and fulfill each other in every way that counts, but Winnie...oh Winnie starts all kinds of trouble, not the kind that's a nuisance but the kind that has life altering effects, but the effects of her treachery leave her alone and everyone else FLYING.
Y'all I wanted to slap Winnie. She was hateful, scandalous, and didn't deserve the love Amina had.
If you haven't read this book, do so now and don't forget about Tame Me and With Everything In Me which are connected to these.
"If I had known that stepping out on my own would have led to this kind of happiness, I would have done it a long time ago. This pretty little caged bird had finally found her wings."
This is actually a reread and I failed to review it the first time around. Amina and Gray are everything and more. They were soul-stirring and hot as hell!
Amina, the youngest Coltraine has always lived in a gilded caged bound by whatever her mother - if you can call her that, Winnie says. Forced into an arrangement for marriage to a sniveling "mama's boy." There's nothing wrong with a son loving his mama because I hope mine will always love me, but running to her when you don't get your way...at your big age:PITIFUL!
Amina realizes she wants to live life on her terms. She wants to work, spend time with her girl Julissa, and be her own woman. Bucking the system leads her to Gray Porter. A whole entire meal that Amina is ready to devour. He's more than eye candy, he's food for her soul! These two complete and fulfill each other in every way that counts, but Winnie...oh Winnie starts all kinds of trouble, not the kind that's a nuisance but the kind that has life altering effects, but the effects of her treachery leave her alone and everyone else FLYING.
Y'all I wanted to slap Winnie. She was hateful, scandalous, and didn't deserve the love Amina had.
If you haven't read this book, do so now and don't forget about Tame Me and With Everything In Me which are connected to these.
September 13, 2021
Opposites Attract
I love a good hood romance, but there is nothing remotely ghetto about Amina, or Gray, for that matter. They are just two young Black millennials born on the opposite sides of the tracks, and the one with the silver spoon has the most issues.
Amina was born into wealth and privilege, while Gray had a lower middle-class upbringing. Amina was raised and groomed to marry a man she didn't love. Her mother was a controlling and abusive biyotch who literally treated her daughter like property as opposed to a human being capable of making her own decisions.
Gray was a reformed dope boy who only got in the game to save his family home and his father's barbershop after he died in a tragic car accident. Gray was a hardworking dude who had to grow up fast and be the man his mother and siblings needed. And he did the damn thing!
Amina and Gray meet at a club one night, and it was a wrap after that. Ol boy she was engaged to didn't stand a chance, but Amina's mother refused to let Amina's desire for independence derail her plans for her plans for her daughter. I'm all about respecting elders, but this hoe needed an ass-whipping early and often.
I loved the chemistry between Gray and Amina as well as the supporting players. Julissa needs her own story now 'cause I know sis has one to tell. Good story. Click it up!
I love a good hood romance, but there is nothing remotely ghetto about Amina, or Gray, for that matter. They are just two young Black millennials born on the opposite sides of the tracks, and the one with the silver spoon has the most issues.
Amina was born into wealth and privilege, while Gray had a lower middle-class upbringing. Amina was raised and groomed to marry a man she didn't love. Her mother was a controlling and abusive biyotch who literally treated her daughter like property as opposed to a human being capable of making her own decisions.
Gray was a reformed dope boy who only got in the game to save his family home and his father's barbershop after he died in a tragic car accident. Gray was a hardworking dude who had to grow up fast and be the man his mother and siblings needed. And he did the damn thing!
Amina and Gray meet at a club one night, and it was a wrap after that. Ol boy she was engaged to didn't stand a chance, but Amina's mother refused to let Amina's desire for independence derail her plans for her plans for her daughter. I'm all about respecting elders, but this hoe needed an ass-whipping early and often.
I loved the chemistry between Gray and Amina as well as the supporting players. Julissa needs her own story now 'cause I know sis has one to tell. Good story. Click it up!
August 22, 2021
4.5/5
I really enjoyed this story.
Amina and Gray were from two different worlds. That doesn't stop their connection. After their first encounter, they were both left with a lasting impression. When they were able to reconnect, things took off for them and, they were inseparable.
These two were so cute. Gray was so loving and intentional. Amina was smitten. She also was reclaiming her life one choice at a time.
Everything about them together just flowed.
I was ready to throw hands several times at Ms.Girl. I don't know how someone could be so evil.
The drama wasn't too much, but one or two scenes could have been cut to focus on something else, like Amina's career.
With all of the drama, her career was barely mentioned. I would have liked to know more about her in this new role since she was excited about it. Her career is challenging. Given her background, it was a huge milestone.
The ending felt rushed once the conflict was over.
Overall, I will be adding this book to my 2021 favorites list.
I am excited about Julissa's story.
There were several spelling errors.*
I really enjoyed this story.
Amina and Gray were from two different worlds. That doesn't stop their connection. After their first encounter, they were both left with a lasting impression. When they were able to reconnect, things took off for them and, they were inseparable.
These two were so cute. Gray was so loving and intentional. Amina was smitten. She also was reclaiming her life one choice at a time.
Everything about them together just flowed.
I was ready to throw hands several times at Ms.Girl. I don't know how someone could be so evil.
The drama wasn't too much, but one or two scenes could have been cut to focus on something else, like Amina's career.
With all of the drama, her career was barely mentioned. I would have liked to know more about her in this new role since she was excited about it. Her career is challenging. Given her background, it was a huge milestone.
The ending felt rushed once the conflict was over.
Overall, I will be adding this book to my 2021 favorites list.
I am excited about Julissa's story.
There were several spelling errors.*
August 21, 2021
Wow🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Loved this book. Congrats to the author for such an awesome first book. 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽🥳🥳🥳. I went through my emotions with this one. We felt Amina’s unhappiness, her frustrations and finally her joy. Momma C was a whole piece of work and got off way too easily in my opinion. Jalissa pimp slapping her was cut short too quickly, she deserved more with her rude and disrespectful self. Just plain disrespectful🙄🙄. Gray. What can be said about this man who was a real man? He’s Bae. That’s it. Read it for yourself. Nuff said about him😜😜. It was a good read and I recommend this book for your reading pleasure😜. Congrats to the author for such an awesome debut. Hopefully we’ll see J and Colby???👀 in their own book, but don’t know how that will pan out with her giving in to Ross😩😩. It will not end well and my feelings may be hurt🤣🤣🤷🏽♀️
Loved this book. Congrats to the author for such an awesome first book. 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽🥳🥳🥳. I went through my emotions with this one. We felt Amina’s unhappiness, her frustrations and finally her joy. Momma C was a whole piece of work and got off way too easily in my opinion. Jalissa pimp slapping her was cut short too quickly, she deserved more with her rude and disrespectful self. Just plain disrespectful🙄🙄. Gray. What can be said about this man who was a real man? He’s Bae. That’s it. Read it for yourself. Nuff said about him😜😜. It was a good read and I recommend this book for your reading pleasure😜. Congrats to the author for such an awesome debut. Hopefully we’ll see J and Colby???👀 in their own book, but don’t know how that will pan out with her giving in to Ross😩😩. It will not end well and my feelings may be hurt🤣🤣🤷🏽♀️
November 7, 2021
Eveyone deserves a happy ending. But some to get there they drag themselves out of the muck of being under the thumb of abusive people.
Amina never strayed from her determination to flee her mothers tyrany and she endured the abuse but kept on. Her friends and Gray not giving up on her because of the the drama and bigotry of some of her family members was the pillar she needed.
But that dinner when everything went sideways, gosh. Her mum deserved her punishment. But seeing how a parent can be so hell bend on screwing up her childrens future to have their way, whoa, I stil hate her mum.
I loved the who Amina and Gray are and how theie love trumps all that keeps coming, but the loss too hurts.
Amina never strayed from her determination to flee her mothers tyrany and she endured the abuse but kept on. Her friends and Gray not giving up on her because of the the drama and bigotry of some of her family members was the pillar she needed.
But that dinner when everything went sideways, gosh. Her mum deserved her punishment. But seeing how a parent can be so hell bend on screwing up her childrens future to have their way, whoa, I stil hate her mum.
I loved the who Amina and Gray are and how theie love trumps all that keeps coming, but the loss too hurts.
November 30, 2021
Pretty Wings
Amina was definitely a caged bird, born and bred to be pretty, proper, obedient and secure the bag via an arranged marriage. All of this was at the hands of her mother. Her gilded cage was only opened for her to attend gala’s, dinners, and be with her betrothed. Her mother told her who, what, where, when and why.
Gray was a man who had to grow up and get it how he lived - in the streets. He wasn’t out there to flex and brag and show off what he was bringing in. Nah, he was out there hustling for his fam and his dads barbershop legacy after he was killed. He was wise, not boastful and kept to his plan. He became the man of the house taking care of his moms, his siblings and saved the barbershop where he was also a barber. He was a real man.
Amina needed someone in her corner and a chance encounter made way for her to gain that and more. Her wins were hard fought and not without battle scars. She is free to fly her pretty wings around!
Amina was definitely a caged bird, born and bred to be pretty, proper, obedient and secure the bag via an arranged marriage. All of this was at the hands of her mother. Her gilded cage was only opened for her to attend gala’s, dinners, and be with her betrothed. Her mother told her who, what, where, when and why.
Gray was a man who had to grow up and get it how he lived - in the streets. He wasn’t out there to flex and brag and show off what he was bringing in. Nah, he was out there hustling for his fam and his dads barbershop legacy after he was killed. He was wise, not boastful and kept to his plan. He became the man of the house taking care of his moms, his siblings and saved the barbershop where he was also a barber. He was a real man.
Amina needed someone in her corner and a chance encounter made way for her to gain that and more. Her wins were hard fought and not without battle scars. She is free to fly her pretty wings around!
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