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Don't Ever Wonder
“You’re not just my wife. You’re my better half. Know it and believe it when I tell you I love you, Bugg. True shit, so don’t ever wonder otherwise.” – Ellington Shakur.
February 14, 2017, Ellington Shakur took his wife Eartha out to celebrate her favorite holiday. Not even halfway through the evening, an altercation ensues that changes the course of Ellington and Eartha’s lives forever.
Five years after losing her husband to the system, Eartha Shakur is having a tough time basking in the heartwarming feelings everyone around her is experiencing from Cupid’s arrow. When a confrontation at work leads to Eartha quitting her job, the Ohio native has to stop running from herself and embrace the possibility that maybe happily ever after wasn’t meant for her.
Ellington, however, has other ideas for the woman who makes his heart whole. Even behind bars, Ell plans to make this Valentine's Day one that Eartha will never forget in hopes that she still believes in their happily ever after.
February 14, 2017, Ellington Shakur took his wife Eartha out to celebrate her favorite holiday. Not even halfway through the evening, an altercation ensues that changes the course of Ellington and Eartha’s lives forever.
Five years after losing her husband to the system, Eartha Shakur is having a tough time basking in the heartwarming feelings everyone around her is experiencing from Cupid’s arrow. When a confrontation at work leads to Eartha quitting her job, the Ohio native has to stop running from herself and embrace the possibility that maybe happily ever after wasn’t meant for her.
Ellington, however, has other ideas for the woman who makes his heart whole. Even behind bars, Ell plans to make this Valentine's Day one that Eartha will never forget in hopes that she still believes in their happily ever after.
- GenresRomance
74 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 14, 2022
87 people are currently reading
133 people want to read
About the author
Takeah Latimore
3 books22 followersBorn and raised in The Buckeye State, Takeah Latimore’s love for words sprouted when she began reading at age three. By nine-years-old, she was penning short stories, poems, and essays for school competitions. In March of 2020, Takeah independently published her debut urban romance novel “Shortie”.
To date, Takeah has published three books, with more on the horizon. Her literary motto, "It's all Black love between these pages".
When she is not writing, she can be found spending time with her family, binge-watching A Different World, dancing, or reading. You can keep up with this author and her upcoming projects on Instagram & Twitter at takeahlatimore and on Facebook at AuthoressTakeah.
To date, Takeah has published three books, with more on the horizon. Her literary motto, "It's all Black love between these pages".
When she is not writing, she can be found spending time with her family, binge-watching A Different World, dancing, or reading. You can keep up with this author and her upcoming projects on Instagram & Twitter at takeahlatimore and on Facebook at AuthoressTakeah.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
August 7, 2022
This was amazing!
This is about Eartha and Ellington, who met in their senior year of college. Ever since that faithful day, they grew individually and as a unit. Ellington graduated with a BA in business management (me too, aye twin!) and opened his own barbershop, Jazzy’s. Eartha studied political science, but her true love was doing nails. She even had her own little station to develop her craft at Jazzy’s. Talk about black excellence.
However, Ellington got locked up. Ever since, he has been trying to hold Eartha done any way he can. This man is IN LOOVVVEE with his wifey. Eartha has been trying to live without her soul-mirror for the time being.
A great story of healthy black love. I’m just speechless. Takeah did her thing with this one. She gave me so many feels in so little pages. Takeah love, I don’t know how you did it, but you did THAT! She took me on a ride that was beautiful and heartfelt (and emotional because I cried throughout the second half, but all happy tears lol).
Also shout out to Amia the bestie because she deserves equal praise for what she did and also being an advocate for mental health in the black community. Shout out to papa Leroy because he is hilarious and Tandy for helping a sis out at the office.
This is about Eartha and Ellington, who met in their senior year of college. Ever since that faithful day, they grew individually and as a unit. Ellington graduated with a BA in business management (me too, aye twin!) and opened his own barbershop, Jazzy’s. Eartha studied political science, but her true love was doing nails. She even had her own little station to develop her craft at Jazzy’s. Talk about black excellence.
However, Ellington got locked up. Ever since, he has been trying to hold Eartha done any way he can. This man is IN LOOVVVEE with his wifey. Eartha has been trying to live without her soul-mirror for the time being.
A great story of healthy black love. I’m just speechless. Takeah did her thing with this one. She gave me so many feels in so little pages. Takeah love, I don’t know how you did it, but you did THAT! She took me on a ride that was beautiful and heartfelt (and emotional because I cried throughout the second half, but all happy tears lol).
Also shout out to Amia the bestie because she deserves equal praise for what she did and also being an advocate for mental health in the black community. Shout out to papa Leroy because he is hilarious and Tandy for helping a sis out at the office.
January 10, 2023
New Forever Fan
I loved Eartha and Ellington’s story. I loved the way the author didn’t rush to let you know what happened to separate the two and left me to wonder. You learn about Eartha’s struggle with being without Ellington. Through the flashbacks Eartha had you felt just how much Ellington loved Eartha and how he would show her how he felt through words, songs, touch, etc. This was a quick enjoyable read and I look forward to more from the authorin the future.
I loved Eartha and Ellington’s story. I loved the way the author didn’t rush to let you know what happened to separate the two and left me to wonder. You learn about Eartha’s struggle with being without Ellington. Through the flashbacks Eartha had you felt just how much Ellington loved Eartha and how he would show her how he felt through words, songs, touch, etc. This was a quick enjoyable read and I look forward to more from the authorin the future.
February 16, 2022
Yessss 👏🏾 🙌🏽
Ms. Latimore… Ooh, baby. We’ve missed your pen game, hunty. Whew, this short Valentine’s Day romance has left me with all the feels.
My girl Eartha personality was all that and a bag of chips. Straight black girl magic and then… Mr. Elli. Whewwww baby I love me some him. Absolutely beautiful love story.
Spoiler alert 🚨 🚨
I truly thought Elli was dead at the beginning of the story because of how the author penned it. But I learned he was doing time and for very good reason. Guh…did you have me fooled. And when you let his fine, smooth talking a.. out I jumped for joy. I felt their unconditional love on those pages. Bravo, Queen! 🔥🔥👏🏾
Ms. Latimore… Ooh, baby. We’ve missed your pen game, hunty. Whew, this short Valentine’s Day romance has left me with all the feels.
My girl Eartha personality was all that and a bag of chips. Straight black girl magic and then… Mr. Elli. Whewwww baby I love me some him. Absolutely beautiful love story.
Spoiler alert 🚨 🚨
I truly thought Elli was dead at the beginning of the story because of how the author penned it. But I learned he was doing time and for very good reason. Guh…did you have me fooled. And when you let his fine, smooth talking a.. out I jumped for joy. I felt their unconditional love on those pages. Bravo, Queen! 🔥🔥👏🏾
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2024
The Es 🤍🤎
My heart ❤️ This was definitely for the lovers and as a certified lovah girl, I ATE this up. First of all, y’all know Takeah play all day cuz I kept laughing 😂
Second, I felt so much for Ell and Earth, like this story lowkey was showing how Black love prevails over yt privilege because them folks was messing up all in this story and I was glad the Es didn’t take that ish. I mean, they’re the SHAKURS, of course they don’t.
Lastly, I just love, love and Black love at that. I can’t wait to see more in their next story because Ell and Earth are meant to be, they have to stay together!!!!
My heart ❤️ This was definitely for the lovers and as a certified lovah girl, I ATE this up. First of all, y’all know Takeah play all day cuz I kept laughing 😂
Second, I felt so much for Ell and Earth, like this story lowkey was showing how Black love prevails over yt privilege because them folks was messing up all in this story and I was glad the Es didn’t take that ish. I mean, they’re the SHAKURS, of course they don’t.
Lastly, I just love, love and Black love at that. I can’t wait to see more in their next story because Ell and Earth are meant to be, they have to stay together!!!!
August 9, 2022
“These five minutes will not matter in five hours. I have all the tools I need to rise above emotion and create a wonderful day. I am capable of peace. I am capable of control. I am capable.”
“You know why I say whatever whenever Earth? It’s because just a couple of decades ago a Black woman speaking her mind was fucking illegal. Our feelings, our thoughts, our voices didn’t matter…to anyone. I don’t take my voice for granted because it is essential. And you, my sister from another mister need to find a voice of your own as well. If not for you then do it for the ancestors.”
“Black women aren’t allowed to show vulnerability in too many arenas. Never ever apologize or feel bad for being human in this space. You can always count on me to be a safe space for you, fam.”
I want a love like Eartha and Ell. I want a black man to go all out for me. To keep a smile on my face and I would be more than happy to do the same for him!!
“You know why I say whatever whenever Earth? It’s because just a couple of decades ago a Black woman speaking her mind was fucking illegal. Our feelings, our thoughts, our voices didn’t matter…to anyone. I don’t take my voice for granted because it is essential. And you, my sister from another mister need to find a voice of your own as well. If not for you then do it for the ancestors.”
“Black women aren’t allowed to show vulnerability in too many arenas. Never ever apologize or feel bad for being human in this space. You can always count on me to be a safe space for you, fam.”
I want a love like Eartha and Ell. I want a black man to go all out for me. To keep a smile on my face and I would be more than happy to do the same for him!!
September 7, 2022
Love on hold
I really enjoyed Eartha and Ellington. This was such a sweet short read. The majority of the book Eartha is extremely sad because Valentine's day which was once her favorite holiday, was a constant reminder of the day she lost the love of her life.
Now usually in real life, I'm not tolerating waiting on a man ever, but Ellington was the mf exception. When I tell you he was it!!! I understood why she was off kilter, being without him for so long. When a man loves you that deeply, his intentions are clear, and his goal in life is to ensure you are happy it makes you feel invincible.
The way everything came together was just beautiful. This book is so relatable it feels like you are reading about a cousin with the slang an authentic characters.
I really wanted to understand how they were able to continue to live such a lavish life without Ell being present. Other than that and the alexa, siri confusion I really enjoyed this read.
I really enjoyed Eartha and Ellington. This was such a sweet short read. The majority of the book Eartha is extremely sad because Valentine's day which was once her favorite holiday, was a constant reminder of the day she lost the love of her life.
Now usually in real life, I'm not tolerating waiting on a man ever, but Ellington was the mf exception. When I tell you he was it!!! I understood why she was off kilter, being without him for so long. When a man loves you that deeply, his intentions are clear, and his goal in life is to ensure you are happy it makes you feel invincible.
The way everything came together was just beautiful. This book is so relatable it feels like you are reading about a cousin with the slang an authentic characters.
I really wanted to understand how they were able to continue to live such a lavish life without Ell being present. Other than that and the alexa, siri confusion I really enjoyed this read.
February 11, 2024
This was a short, sweet, and spicy read. Usually, I'm not a fan of women waiting around for a man, but in this case, it made total sense for Eartha and Ellington. These two loved each other for real and earned every minute of each other's loyalty! Ellington was a man of his words with consistent actions to match. I loved that for Earth. The spice scene in the book was definitely hitting all the right notes! I would happily read more books by this author.
August 11, 2022
Well written loving story
Extremely well written short story. The love Ellington and Eartha shared for each other was felt through the entire story. The ending was like a fairytale.
Extremely well written short story. The love Ellington and Eartha shared for each other was felt through the entire story. The ending was like a fairytale.
February 16, 2022
must read!
This has got to be the best book I have read in a while! The details and the story plot is perfectly written and honestly it’s everything you need. This love story fits the story of so many and it’s nice seeing it brought to life
This has got to be the best book I have read in a while! The details and the story plot is perfectly written and honestly it’s everything you need. This love story fits the story of so many and it’s nice seeing it brought to life
July 27, 2022
great read
Wow the love Ell and Eartha had for each other was one of a kind. This story was so good
Wow the love Ell and Eartha had for each other was one of a kind. This story was so good
March 15, 2022
Brown Girl Book Geek Review 📚
Y’all know those moments as black folks where we come across something and our response is “dang, we all really lived the same life”? Consistently sprinkled throughout this short read, I had those moments and they were a cultural treat. I enjoyed the pieces of me and my loved ones I saw in this story. And to top it off, we were given Ellington Tyree Shakur. A man whose love knew no limits. He was a treat all by himself. There were a few things, well really one aspect of the story in general, that caused me to give a side eye. However, it was a personal preference thing and I never hold my opinions of that nature against the story or the author. Sorry not sorry, no spoilers from me lol. I’m definitely down for a book discussion with those who’ve read this gem. So grab your copy and get to reading! This was a good one.
Y’all know those moments as black folks where we come across something and our response is “dang, we all really lived the same life”? Consistently sprinkled throughout this short read, I had those moments and they were a cultural treat. I enjoyed the pieces of me and my loved ones I saw in this story. And to top it off, we were given Ellington Tyree Shakur. A man whose love knew no limits. He was a treat all by himself. There were a few things, well really one aspect of the story in general, that caused me to give a side eye. However, it was a personal preference thing and I never hold my opinions of that nature against the story or the author. Sorry not sorry, no spoilers from me lol. I’m definitely down for a book discussion with those who’ve read this gem. So grab your copy and get to reading! This was a good one.
February 17, 2023
Don’t Ever Wonder is a story about love on SO many different levels. The sisterhood between Eartha and Mia was GOALS! Mia was holding her girlfriend DOWN through her toughest days, and you could tell that had the roles been reversed, Eartha should have done the same. Then there was the love between Eartha’s parents and their combined love for their daughter. They made sure to rally behind her! And last but not least there was Eartha and Ellington! The circumstances surrounding them were not perfect but the love between them WAS! Ell was a real one and Eartha held it down! There were so many sweet moments that had me smiling. Overall I enjoyed it! The story was short, but it was so full! There was humor and a plot line that had me like “well wtf!” I definitely will be reading more from this talented author ❤️
July 6, 2022
Wow! This short read really took me out! I felt sadness, then I laughed, was gutted, then smiled and cheered! Eartha stayed lit, and anybody could get it! They way she handled those “Karen’s” at her workplace, was epic! She was just trying to maintain, while missing the love of her life Ellington! One could feel the love that Ell had for Earth, although he wasn’t physically present. It made me wonder, what in the hell happened to him? It took us a minute to find out, and maaaannnnn….. whew! No wonder Eartha is so heartbroken!💔 But the way that Ellington made sure to let Eartha know, and show her that she still meant the world to him, made me swoon! That ending…….. I felt like crying and jumping for joy with Eartha! ❤ Great read from a young new author! 👍👍👍
June 17, 2023
Ehhh, I enjoyed the premise behind this book, but it was too long in my opinion for a novella simply because it had a lot of unnecessary fluff & a lot of things that didn't make sense. Eartha drives a Jaguar & lives in a "mini mansion" but works as a paralegal & had other meaningless jobs instead of focusing on her passion due to the circumstances with her husband ? As well as the whole reason Ellington ended up in the situation he did. Like y'all went to a five star restaurant & of all things, that's what happened ? That made absolutely no sense to me. It was a lot about this book that I was just like hmm, okay. I did truly enjoy the whole hangup about what happened to Ellington, it kept me on my toes. & I also loved how Ellington loved on Eartha.
This was my first read by this author & I will try another book from her catalogue.
This was my first read by this author & I will try another book from her catalogue.
February 23, 2022
And if you don't know then I'll say it...this book is ASTOUNDING!
Oh wow, oh wow, oh wow! This story is excellent; let's start there! Eartha is a firecracker. I felt like I was rooting for my bestie through it all. (Plus those Karen takedown scenes? YES!!!) Babbyyy, this book had me laughing, crying, and swooning. The warmth and intimacy between Eartha and Ellington is so surreal. These characters loved with such intention, and passion. And the heat, heat, heat—I'm talking the highest of the high sweltering Black Love! Brava, Ms. Latimore, on your staggering sophomore release. You've surpassed all expectations!
Oh wow, oh wow, oh wow! This story is excellent; let's start there! Eartha is a firecracker. I felt like I was rooting for my bestie through it all. (Plus those Karen takedown scenes? YES!!!) Babbyyy, this book had me laughing, crying, and swooning. The warmth and intimacy between Eartha and Ellington is so surreal. These characters loved with such intention, and passion. And the heat, heat, heat—I'm talking the highest of the high sweltering Black Love! Brava, Ms. Latimore, on your staggering sophomore release. You've surpassed all expectations!
September 11, 2022
A good second book
I always give new authors a chance to catch their groove. The story was the first book I've read by this author. I only noticed minimal issues. The story was short, yet there was enough to grasp the plot.. Ellington and Eartha were married and separated on Valentine's Day, so Eartha was not a fan of the day about love. The experience in this story shines a spotlight on the fact that humans can be evil. Also, there is the fact that an abiding and enduring love can overcome any obstacle. The story was very nice. Eartha and Ellington were relationship goals personified.
I always give new authors a chance to catch their groove. The story was the first book I've read by this author. I only noticed minimal issues. The story was short, yet there was enough to grasp the plot.. Ellington and Eartha were married and separated on Valentine's Day, so Eartha was not a fan of the day about love. The experience in this story shines a spotlight on the fact that humans can be evil. Also, there is the fact that an abiding and enduring love can overcome any obstacle. The story was very nice. Eartha and Ellington were relationship goals personified.
March 24, 2022
Enjoyed the quick read🔥🖤❤️👏🏽
This was a quick erotica novella. The story was well written. The flow was okay. The take off was slow for me but it only picked up at a fast speed🍷. There were some hidden jewels in this story. If you know you know 😉! I really enjoyed the solo ❤️ car scene it was absolute 🔥👏🏽. I hadn’t read one like that ever before. It was very well written. Definitely a good job! And the make up time was 💥 as well. I would recommend this short 🖤🖤❤️❤️read!
This was a quick erotica novella. The story was well written. The flow was okay. The take off was slow for me but it only picked up at a fast speed🍷. There were some hidden jewels in this story. If you know you know 😉! I really enjoyed the solo ❤️ car scene it was absolute 🔥👏🏽. I hadn’t read one like that ever before. It was very well written. Definitely a good job! And the make up time was 💥 as well. I would recommend this short 🖤🖤❤️❤️read!
January 29, 2024
Earth and Ell 👩🏾❤️💋👨🏾♥️🥰💌
Ellington and Eartha was so in love with one another and so in tune. Earth struggled with Ell being away. She blamed herself but Ell on the other hand would do anything to make sure his wife is good. He was a protector. It gave unconditional love. Black Love is so beautiful. This was a bit emotional but well written. A short valentine’s day read. I highly recommend getting into this.
Ellington and Eartha was so in love with one another and so in tune. Earth struggled with Ell being away. She blamed herself but Ell on the other hand would do anything to make sure his wife is good. He was a protector. It gave unconditional love. Black Love is so beautiful. This was a bit emotional but well written. A short valentine’s day read. I highly recommend getting into this.
February 13, 2025
Blown away by how much I enjoyed this one.... I laughed, I swooned, I gasped and I was ready to ride on H&D staff. This certainly did pack a punch in only 76 pages! That's how you write a story.
Takeah did a damn good job of keeping the intrigue on what transpired in the past while keeping me engaged with the present. Thank goodness there is a follow up to this story!
Can't wait to read 'And We Still' next!
Takeah did a damn good job of keeping the intrigue on what transpired in the past while keeping me engaged with the present. Thank goodness there is a follow up to this story!
Can't wait to read 'And We Still' next!
August 19, 2023
So unexpected!
This was a short, sweet and highly unexpected storyline. Definitely something different. The love between Ellington and Eartha was disgustingly beautiful! And Ellington was the definition of you can making the inevitable happen despite the circumstances. The way he showed up for her in the final chapter has ME tearing up! I would love to see their comeback story!
This was a short, sweet and highly unexpected storyline. Definitely something different. The love between Ellington and Eartha was disgustingly beautiful! And Ellington was the definition of you can making the inevitable happen despite the circumstances. The way he showed up for her in the final chapter has ME tearing up! I would love to see their comeback story!
June 8, 2025
Short and sweet
Short, sweet, and straight to the point. I didn't realize this was a short story when I picked it up, but it took me on a fun little roller-coaster. I had so many questions about Eartha and her husband love, and the book answered it all in short about time. I was rooting for them, and the end was a sweet surprise.
Short, sweet, and straight to the point. I didn't realize this was a short story when I picked it up, but it took me on a fun little roller-coaster. I had so many questions about Eartha and her husband love, and the book answered it all in short about time. I was rooting for them, and the end was a sweet surprise.
August 12, 2022
loved it!
This was a super cute read! I expected it to be full of trauma due to the description but it had a surprising twist! The love story was adorable. I love to see Black love flourish and Black women getting happy endings after the struggle ❤️🫶🏽
This was a super cute read! I expected it to be full of trauma due to the description but it had a surprising twist! The love story was adorable. I love to see Black love flourish and Black women getting happy endings after the struggle ❤️🫶🏽
October 10, 2022
I love Black love
This book is SOOO good, from the small gems about living life as a Black woman to the Habari Mama to the ultimate demonstration of a black man loving a Black woman.
This book is SOOO good, from the small gems about living life as a Black woman to the Habari Mama to the ultimate demonstration of a black man loving a Black woman.
October 15, 2022
Short and sweet....
I don't normally read short stories (don't know how I missed that it is) but this was an enjoyable book. Glad Eartha finally got her husband back and they could be happy again.
I don't normally read short stories (don't know how I missed that it is) but this was an enjoyable book. Glad Eartha finally got her husband back and they could be happy again.
December 4, 2022
my heart
Most of the book was spent with my heart in my throat, sad and waiting to see how the rest of Eartha’s day would go. Author Takeah did not disappoint with the direction she took the book and how it ended!! Well written, funny as hell as well. Enjoyed it.
Most of the book was spent with my heart in my throat, sad and waiting to see how the rest of Eartha’s day would go. Author Takeah did not disappoint with the direction she took the book and how it ended!! Well written, funny as hell as well. Enjoyed it.
January 1, 2023
Short and Sweet
If you are looking for a short and quick read you have come to the right place. I loved the fact that the book kept me guessing and I wasn't expecting the ending at all!
If you are looking for a short and quick read you have come to the right place. I loved the fact that the book kept me guessing and I wasn't expecting the ending at all!
December 7, 2023
For the lovers
I absolutely loved this beautiful story. It was indeed a story for the lovers. Eartha and Ellington have my heart forever!! I can't wait to read more projects from this author.
I absolutely loved this beautiful story. It was indeed a story for the lovers. Eartha and Ellington have my heart forever!! I can't wait to read more projects from this author.
March 21, 2024
Now I'm wondering....
....why isn't this a full book? Or series? It's been years since I read a book in its entirety in one day so this little win makes me proud of myself and I enjoyed it. Win win.
....why isn't this a full book? Or series? It's been years since I read a book in its entirety in one day so this little win makes me proud of myself and I enjoyed it. Win win.
July 20, 2022
short but good
I really liked this book by Takeah Latimore. it was short but very romantic. I would definitely read more books by her.
I really liked this book by Takeah Latimore. it was short but very romantic. I would definitely read more books by her.
July 24, 2022
great!
I really and truly enjoyed this love story! His friends, her friends, work friends always make life more enjoyable. Eartha and Ellington are definitely #relationshipgoals!
I really and truly enjoyed this love story! His friends, her friends, work friends always make life more enjoyable. Eartha and Ellington are definitely #relationshipgoals!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews