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I Thought I Knew
The tragedy of losing his father at an impressionable age led to mistakes that caused Kai Mathis to become indebted to a powerful and dangerous man. As he got older, his punishment turned into a reward and being at the top of a deadly criminal empire was enough for Kai… until Harper.Kai is ready to move toward forever with the love of his life, Harper Jean, but feels that he can’t do so with the secret of his double life looming over him. He is ready to leave his life of crime behind him, but Kai’s decision to sever ties from the organization backfires and puts Harper’s life in danger.Harper Jean has never known how great love can be until she met Kai Mathis. After many failed relationships, she is with a man that she can love and trust freely. She has a secret of her own but is unable to reveal it due to a quick grim turn of events that has her and Kai on the run for their lives.While fighting to stay alive, their relationship is tested, and their secrets are revealed making them question if their love can prevail or if they truly knew each other at all.
152 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 31, 2021
96 people are currently reading
144 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
May 20, 2022
I Thought I Knew was a sexy and drama filled page turner. Unbeknownst to most people, Kai is living a double life. During the day he’s a respected businessman but, at night, he’s one of the biggest narcotics distributors in Florida. After 14 years in the game, he starts making moves to go legit for the love of his life. That’s going to be easier said than done if Cooley has anything to say about it. He’s been grooming Kai since he was 16 years old to take over his empire. When Kai informs him he’s getting out of the game, Cooley isn’t happy and takes drastic measures to tighten his hold on Kai. Harper has no clue about Kai’s double life. She’s been living in blissful ignorance for the last year and a half until Kai’s secret is revealed. This book takes us on an action-packed journey as we witness the lengths Kai is willing to go through to protect his woman and his future. I Thought I Knew was good read. It was fast paced, sexy, funny, and I loved every minute of it.
October 2, 2022
Kai x Harper
This was such a good read. Immediately, Immediately I was hooked. Kai was a savage, but we didn't know much of a savage he actually really was…neither did Harper. All he wanted to do was do right by his lady. But here comes his past decisions, trying to get in the way of that. Lucky for Kai, he was well equipped. If you're looking for action, love, laughs then get into this.
2nd book by this author and I really like her style
4.7 ⭐️
This was such a good read. Immediately, Immediately I was hooked. Kai was a savage, but we didn't know much of a savage he actually really was…neither did Harper. All he wanted to do was do right by his lady. But here comes his past decisions, trying to get in the way of that. Lucky for Kai, he was well equipped. If you're looking for action, love, laughs then get into this.
2nd book by this author and I really like her style
4.7 ⭐️
May 19, 2024
🥹
I liked this one a lot, super fast paced but also easy to read. Kai should have known getting out of his former life wouldn’t have come easy for him, lol.
I liked this one a lot, super fast paced but also easy to read. Kai should have known getting out of his former life wouldn’t have come easy for him, lol.
May 22, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is my first read from this author. And it was much more than I expected.
There was a lot more action than I was expecting.
Maybe I’ll check out Desmond’s story.
This is my first read from this author. And it was much more than I expected.
There was a lot more action than I was expecting.
Maybe I’ll check out Desmond’s story.
July 28, 2022
< intense>I thought I knew too.
I thought I knew how this story would go, and boy was I ever so wrong! Lol, this was my first book by this author, and I promise you this is just the beginning. The story was a romantic suspense with a twist. You will enjoy this one; give it a try.
I thought I knew how this story would go, and boy was I ever so wrong! Lol, this was my first book by this author, and I promise you this is just the beginning. The story was a romantic suspense with a twist. You will enjoy this one; give it a try.
September 9, 2021
So good! I really enjoyed this book. It’s a quick drama filled and sexy read that will have you laughing and wondering what’s next. I loved how it flowed and the chemistry between Kai and Harper. I can’t wait for Leila and Desmend’s story. Highly recommend this book.
September 19, 2021
This was my first reading of this author and I enjoyed her writing style. I loved the way the book started with the action and giving a sample of each character and the way that the author developed and introduced me to the different layers of each character throughout gave the book levels of depth and had me intrigued to know the conclusion. This book had love,betrayal,suspense and that gritty urban feel. I loved Kai and Harper’s story and the growth of their relationship.
September 1, 2021
This book was a true page turner for me. I was trying to take my time reading this but every time I closed the book I came right back to read more. This story wasn’t predictable or lack substance it had depth and by the end I was very satisfied with what I read. It was well written and the way the characters connected and how it ended I thought was brilliant. Job well done!
August 31, 2021
A must read
Chassilyn has done it again. Cute story that's pulled me in from the beginning . Just went I thought I knew what was about to happen she said aht aht and switched it up on me. I really enjoyed this read.
Chassilyn has done it again. Cute story that's pulled me in from the beginning . Just went I thought I knew what was about to happen she said aht aht and switched it up on me. I really enjoyed this read.
September 26, 2024
Meh. This was action packed but also kind of boring. The hero has hidden his past as a high ranking “distributor of street drugs” from his girlfriend (may have been his fiancee?). She has no idea until the consequences of him trying to leave the lifestyle result in them being on the run until the dust settles and he comes up with a game plan.
Not to mention she’s pregnant so they have to deal with that.
It was just ok.
Not to mention she’s pregnant so they have to deal with that.
It was just ok.
September 2, 2021
“Yes Please”
What can I say that don’t give this book away? Chassilyn’s growth as a writer is shown in this book. You feel like you’re right there with Harper and Kai. The pettiness and the jokes were hilarious.
“I Thought I Knew” held different meanings, both Harper and Kai held secrets from each and at the end what they thought they knew about each, really wasn’t.
I’ll be adding this one to my read again list.
Great job Chassilyn, I’m looking forward to more of your work.
What can I say that don’t give this book away? Chassilyn’s growth as a writer is shown in this book. You feel like you’re right there with Harper and Kai. The pettiness and the jokes were hilarious.
“I Thought I Knew” held different meanings, both Harper and Kai held secrets from each and at the end what they thought they knew about each, really wasn’t.
I’ll be adding this one to my read again list.
Great job Chassilyn, I’m looking forward to more of your work.
September 3, 2021
Action packed, sexy and sweet story
This story had the drama, action, betrayal, surprise revelations, sexy times and romance. Whew! CH packed a lot into less than 150 pages and gave a great read. I loved this couple and how they were able to navigate the waters of secrets and betrayal. Great job CH! (And looking forward to seeing if something comes of Des and Leila)
This story had the drama, action, betrayal, surprise revelations, sexy times and romance. Whew! CH packed a lot into less than 150 pages and gave a great read. I loved this couple and how they were able to navigate the waters of secrets and betrayal. Great job CH! (And looking forward to seeing if something comes of Des and Leila)
September 11, 2021
so good!!
Kai was wild for not being upfront with Harper, but in the end their love pulled them through! I had a deep appreciation for Kai’s laser focus when it came to his lady. He was so sure that what ever he needed to do to keep his good thang…he’d do it.
Kai was wild for not being upfront with Harper, but in the end their love pulled them through! I had a deep appreciation for Kai’s laser focus when it came to his lady. He was so sure that what ever he needed to do to keep his good thang…he’d do it.
October 23, 2021
loved this story!
This was a very good story. Kai my Kai 🥰 I loved the plot and how this book ended. I was a nervous wreck yet so intrigued. The sex scenes weren’t anything to play with either. Chileee from beginning to the end I wanted more and more. GET INTO THIS BOOK‼️
This was a very good story. Kai my Kai 🥰 I loved the plot and how this book ended. I was a nervous wreck yet so intrigued. The sex scenes weren’t anything to play with either. Chileee from beginning to the end I wanted more and more. GET INTO THIS BOOK‼️
January 21, 2022
excellent read
This book was great. It had dram, suspense and love. I’m glad that Kai & Harper made it on the other side stronger than ever. My first read by this author but not my last.
This book was great. It had dram, suspense and love. I’m glad that Kai & Harper made it on the other side stronger than ever. My first read by this author but not my last.
April 13, 2023
3.5 rounded up. I love that it started out with bullets flying lol. The sexual chemistry was there FOR SURE and watching Kai open up to Harper was beautiful.
September 12, 2021
A great read
This story takes off quickly and doesn’t slow down. A true page turner. The chemistry between the two regardless of their situation doesn’t falter and that’s what makes Kai bae. Love this story🤍
This story takes off quickly and doesn’t slow down. A true page turner. The chemistry between the two regardless of their situation doesn’t falter and that’s what makes Kai bae. Love this story🤍
December 20, 2023
Kai + Harper
"I Thought I Knew" by Chassilyn Hamilton delves into the complex and riveting tale of Kai Mathis, whose turbulent past intertwines with a dangerous criminal underworld. The narrative unfolds with the promise of love between Kai and Harper, only to be disrupted by Kai's attempt to break free from his criminal ties, leading to unexpected peril.
Hamilton skillfully weaves themes of love, trust, and the consequences of one's choices. The tragedy that shapes Kai adds depth to his character, and as he strives for redemption, readers are taken on a rollercoaster of emotions. The dynamic between Kai and Harper is explored against the backdrop of danger, making their love story both compelling and suspenseful.
The plot's twists and turns keep readers on the edge, while the characters confront their secrets under life-threatening circumstances. The author expertly navigates the complexities of relationships under duress, prompting readers to ponder whether love can withstand the trials revealed in the story.
"I Thought I Knew" is a gripping narrative that explores the fragility of trust and the resilience of love amid the shadows of a criminal empire. Hamilton's storytelling prowess shines through, offering a thrilling and thought-provoking experience for readers.
"I Thought I Knew" by Chassilyn Hamilton delves into the complex and riveting tale of Kai Mathis, whose turbulent past intertwines with a dangerous criminal underworld. The narrative unfolds with the promise of love between Kai and Harper, only to be disrupted by Kai's attempt to break free from his criminal ties, leading to unexpected peril.
Hamilton skillfully weaves themes of love, trust, and the consequences of one's choices. The tragedy that shapes Kai adds depth to his character, and as he strives for redemption, readers are taken on a rollercoaster of emotions. The dynamic between Kai and Harper is explored against the backdrop of danger, making their love story both compelling and suspenseful.
The plot's twists and turns keep readers on the edge, while the characters confront their secrets under life-threatening circumstances. The author expertly navigates the complexities of relationships under duress, prompting readers to ponder whether love can withstand the trials revealed in the story.
"I Thought I Knew" is a gripping narrative that explores the fragility of trust and the resilience of love amid the shadows of a criminal empire. Hamilton's storytelling prowess shines through, offering a thrilling and thought-provoking experience for readers.
May 16, 2022
4.5 stars
Chassilyn is quickly bulldozing her way to becoming a one-click author for me. I’m so upset that I didn’t read this book in order. I felt it would’ve hit different. This is such an intriguing story. Kai is a modern day Dr. Jekyll and Hyde. In the day he is a legit businessman, but at night he runs the streets. He met Harper and knew it was time to leave that part of this life behind. He makes moves to accomplish that and finds out the heard way that it’s not easy to leave the streets behind. Kai and Harper have an easy relationship.It’s obvious they love each other and it’s just what Harper needs after kissing too many frogs yet after finding out about Kai’s dark side, she is questioning the relationship. The author did her thing with this book. This book is short but it didn’t lack in drama, suspense nor action. This book takes us on a journey as we witness Harper become acquainted with both sides the man she loves. It also shows the lengths a man will take to protect his future. I loved every second of it and I highly recommend reading.
Chassilyn is quickly bulldozing her way to becoming a one-click author for me. I’m so upset that I didn’t read this book in order. I felt it would’ve hit different. This is such an intriguing story. Kai is a modern day Dr. Jekyll and Hyde. In the day he is a legit businessman, but at night he runs the streets. He met Harper and knew it was time to leave that part of this life behind. He makes moves to accomplish that and finds out the heard way that it’s not easy to leave the streets behind. Kai and Harper have an easy relationship.It’s obvious they love each other and it’s just what Harper needs after kissing too many frogs yet after finding out about Kai’s dark side, she is questioning the relationship. The author did her thing with this book. This book is short but it didn’t lack in drama, suspense nor action. This book takes us on a journey as we witness Harper become acquainted with both sides the man she loves. It also shows the lengths a man will take to protect his future. I loved every second of it and I highly recommend reading.
April 28, 2022
Very Good
This is my first time reading a book by this author. This book was really good. Kai was leading a double life. He has his woman Harper. Kai was trying to leave the game and go legit. The guy who groomed him Cooley was trying to let him leave. The things that came out in this book a surprise. Kai was doing everything to protect Harper. Love the ending. Can't wait to read Desmond story.
This is my first time reading a book by this author. This book was really good. Kai was leading a double life. He has his woman Harper. Kai was trying to leave the game and go legit. The guy who groomed him Cooley was trying to let him leave. The things that came out in this book a surprise. Kai was doing everything to protect Harper. Love the ending. Can't wait to read Desmond story.
August 29, 2025
Kai and Harper
This was my first read from this author. I really enjoyed it. The action and drama was definitely a good way to keep me interested. Harper living a soft girl life until she found out about her man’s secret causes them to be on the run. Little do her man know she had a few secrets of her own. Looking forward to getting into Desmond story. Overall a great read and I would recommend.
This was my first read from this author. I really enjoyed it. The action and drama was definitely a good way to keep me interested. Harper living a soft girl life until she found out about her man’s secret causes them to be on the run. Little do her man know she had a few secrets of her own. Looking forward to getting into Desmond story. Overall a great read and I would recommend.
September 14, 2021
Great Short Story 💙
This book gave everything that it was suppose to give. All of the twist and turns of it, made it that much better. I started out thinking I knew what was going on and surprisingly was wrong lol but I love that. I love when there's more to the story than your average story line. The way Kai loves on Harper 😩 Is beautiful. I can't wait for book 2!
This book gave everything that it was suppose to give. All of the twist and turns of it, made it that much better. I started out thinking I knew what was going on and surprisingly was wrong lol but I love that. I love when there's more to the story than your average story line. The way Kai loves on Harper 😩 Is beautiful. I can't wait for book 2!
September 25, 2021
Spicy thriller
This was way deeper than I thought it would be. I love the plot and how gritty it was. I really liked that it ended differently than I thought. It made me mad in the middle but in the end Kai proved to be the best protector a man could be. Anybody can change you just need motivation some times and this was definitely motivating! Can hardly wait for desmonds fate
This was way deeper than I thought it would be. I love the plot and how gritty it was. I really liked that it ended differently than I thought. It made me mad in the middle but in the end Kai proved to be the best protector a man could be. Anybody can change you just need motivation some times and this was definitely motivating! Can hardly wait for desmonds fate
January 22, 2022
Sooo Good 👍🏾
I believe this is my first time reading this author's book it won't be my last. I was surprised it wasn't what I thought it was. I thought Kai and Harper were just an average couple in love 😯. I enjoyed the twists and turns this book took. Looking forward to reading more books from your catalog 🥰.
I believe this is my first time reading this author's book it won't be my last. I was surprised it wasn't what I thought it was. I thought Kai and Harper were just an average couple in love 😯. I enjoyed the twists and turns this book took. Looking forward to reading more books from your catalog 🥰.
October 15, 2023
She ain't know....
But she quickly found out! Kai & Harper's story was a test of true love that kept me wanting more. I enjoyed the sweet moments as well as the realness of I Thought I Knew. However, I do wish we could've gotten more of their love story before the drama popped off, so maybe a prequel & sequel in the future?...
Happy Reading!!
But she quickly found out! Kai & Harper's story was a test of true love that kept me wanting more. I enjoyed the sweet moments as well as the realness of I Thought I Knew. However, I do wish we could've gotten more of their love story before the drama popped off, so maybe a prequel & sequel in the future?...
Happy Reading!!
November 26, 2021
Wow
I loved this ride! Twists and turns every which way you looked. Loved the way the the characters were developed. Because of this, I had no way to figure out the ending. Glad I picked this one up. I truly enjoyed!
I loved this ride! Twists and turns every which way you looked. Loved the way the the characters were developed. Because of this, I had no way to figure out the ending. Glad I picked this one up. I truly enjoyed!
December 13, 2021
Good read
I was pleasantly surprised by this new to me author. Initially I was disappointed we didn’t get to see the characters meet but the story hit the ground running. Very hot with humor and action. Loved it and the writing style.
I was pleasantly surprised by this new to me author. Initially I was disappointed we didn’t get to see the characters meet but the story hit the ground running. Very hot with humor and action. Loved it and the writing style.
February 2, 2022
:::4.5 stars:::
🌶🌶🌶🌶
🎶"All I need in this life of sin is me and my girlfriend. Down to ride 'til the very end, is me and my boyfriend." 🎶 Love this Bonnie and Clyde inspired story. Kai was bae for sure. He did make some missteps but his love for his woman more than made up for it. This was my first read by this author and she did an excellent job showcasing black love. The pacing and action in the story was on point.
🌶🌶🌶🌶
🎶"All I need in this life of sin is me and my girlfriend. Down to ride 'til the very end, is me and my boyfriend." 🎶 Love this Bonnie and Clyde inspired story. Kai was bae for sure. He did make some missteps but his love for his woman more than made up for it. This was my first read by this author and she did an excellent job showcasing black love. The pacing and action in the story was on point.
February 18, 2022
great!!!
This was definitely a great read. The way Kai protected his lady & his self from that crazy man but overall I enjoyed this book definitely was some life lessons in here that were very relatable.
This was definitely a great read. The way Kai protected his lady & his self from that crazy man but overall I enjoyed this book definitely was some life lessons in here that were very relatable.
April 26, 2022
Wow
First but not the last novel from this author! I don't even remember when I purchased this book but I know that it has been awhile. Kai and Harper's story was so good. I recommend this read.
First but not the last novel from this author! I don't even remember when I purchased this book but I know that it has been awhile. Kai and Harper's story was so good. I recommend this read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews