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St. Louis Cyclones #3
PERSONAL
The bad boy of the NBA and the princess of the McClain Kingdom—a love story.
He’s handsome, talented, and troubled. Known as the bad boy of the NBA, Armand Daniels is both a liability and an asset to any team he’s a member of due to his hair-trigger temper. He’s no stranger to instability, but this latest trade may be what forces him onto the path of true change.
Ella McClain is her daddy’s princess, the daughter of a beauty icon, and a successful model in her own right. However, she’s tired of the spotlight and all that comes with it. Although cherished and protected by her family, she is overcoming deep issues when she crosses paths with Armand.
They are an unlikely pair who share a combustible chemistry and an inextinguishable passion, but do they have what it takes to build an enduring love?
For the best reading experience, Let Me Love You and Let Me Hold You by Alexandria House should be read before reading PERSONAL.
He’s handsome, talented, and troubled. Known as the bad boy of the NBA, Armand Daniels is both a liability and an asset to any team he’s a member of due to his hair-trigger temper. He’s no stranger to instability, but this latest trade may be what forces him onto the path of true change.
Ella McClain is her daddy’s princess, the daughter of a beauty icon, and a successful model in her own right. However, she’s tired of the spotlight and all that comes with it. Although cherished and protected by her family, she is overcoming deep issues when she crosses paths with Armand.
They are an unlikely pair who share a combustible chemistry and an inextinguishable passion, but do they have what it takes to build an enduring love?
For the best reading experience, Let Me Love You and Let Me Hold You by Alexandria House should be read before reading PERSONAL.
221 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 31, 2022
107 people are currently reading
894 people want to read
About the author
Alexandria House
44 books4,069 followersAbout the author
A true southern girl, Alexandria House has an affinity for a good banana pudding, Neo Soul music, and tall black men in suits. When this music-loving fashionista is not shopping, she's writing steamy stories about real black love.
Verve Romance: @msalexhouse
Instagram: @msalexhouse
TikTok: @msalexhouse
Facebook: Alexandria House
A true southern girl, Alexandria House has an affinity for a good banana pudding, Neo Soul music, and tall black men in suits. When this music-loving fashionista is not shopping, she's writing steamy stories about real black love.
Verve Romance: @msalexhouse
Instagram: @msalexhouse
TikTok: @msalexhouse
Facebook: Alexandria House
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 327 reviews
April 18, 2022
**SPOILERS**
Whew chile! Ella is all grown up and I was NOT ready! I was so over the moon when Alexandria House announced an Ella and Armand hook-up and PERSONAL did not disappoint. Armand is still angry and difficult to work with. Because of his recent antics, he finds himself being traded yet again but, this time, he’s being shipped off to his step daddy's team. To say Armand is not a happy camper is an understatement. Ella is recovering from the trauma she endured in her last relationship, so she moved to St. Louis to be closer to family as part of her healing process. Ella and Armand’s pairing is questionable but, it works. They’re both flawed and complicated individuals who are sometimes misunderstood by their family and friends. Armand has been so angry and volatile most of his life and he refused to go to therapy. When the Cyclones made it a condition of his contact, and he had no choice, we finally learn what’s going on with Armand. I was so happy for him because, he honestly didn’t understand his own behavior. Ella was so secretive and held a lot in. No one really knew about the abuse she went through with her ex. Not even her family. Hell, other than Big South, I don’t think anyone else even knew she went to rehab. Between dealing with guilt and the rabid fans of her ex, Ella is also dealing with her relationship (or lack thereof) with her mama. She’s never forgiven Esther Reese for the shenanigans she pulled with Big South and Jo. The fact that Esther refuses to acknowledge her behavior and won't apologize doesn’t help. When Ella learns the identity of her real father, all bets are off and she cuts Esther off. With all the shyt they had going on in their personal lives, Ella and Armand managed to gravitate to one another. Their chemistry was explosive and their attraction was palpable. I loved the dynamics between Ella and Armand because, they really complemented and balanced each other. I knew the McClain clan was not going to be happy with their union. Big South almost lost his shyt but, Ella shut that down real quick. If “That’s my man and I’ma stick beside him” was a person, it would definitely be Ella McClain. She rode hard for Boogie. I really enjoyed PERSONAL. Ella and Armand showed up and showed out with an unapologetic display of black love and I was absolutely here for it. Well done Ms. House!
Whew chile! Ella is all grown up and I was NOT ready! I was so over the moon when Alexandria House announced an Ella and Armand hook-up and PERSONAL did not disappoint. Armand is still angry and difficult to work with. Because of his recent antics, he finds himself being traded yet again but, this time, he’s being shipped off to his step daddy's team. To say Armand is not a happy camper is an understatement. Ella is recovering from the trauma she endured in her last relationship, so she moved to St. Louis to be closer to family as part of her healing process. Ella and Armand’s pairing is questionable but, it works. They’re both flawed and complicated individuals who are sometimes misunderstood by their family and friends. Armand has been so angry and volatile most of his life and he refused to go to therapy. When the Cyclones made it a condition of his contact, and he had no choice, we finally learn what’s going on with Armand. I was so happy for him because, he honestly didn’t understand his own behavior. Ella was so secretive and held a lot in. No one really knew about the abuse she went through with her ex. Not even her family. Hell, other than Big South, I don’t think anyone else even knew she went to rehab. Between dealing with guilt and the rabid fans of her ex, Ella is also dealing with her relationship (or lack thereof) with her mama. She’s never forgiven Esther Reese for the shenanigans she pulled with Big South and Jo. The fact that Esther refuses to acknowledge her behavior and won't apologize doesn’t help. When Ella learns the identity of her real father, all bets are off and she cuts Esther off. With all the shyt they had going on in their personal lives, Ella and Armand managed to gravitate to one another. Their chemistry was explosive and their attraction was palpable. I loved the dynamics between Ella and Armand because, they really complemented and balanced each other. I knew the McClain clan was not going to be happy with their union. Big South almost lost his shyt but, Ella shut that down real quick. If “That’s my man and I’ma stick beside him” was a person, it would definitely be Ella McClain. She rode hard for Boogie. I really enjoyed PERSONAL. Ella and Armand showed up and showed out with an unapologetic display of black love and I was absolutely here for it. Well done Ms. House!
May 1, 2023
LISTENNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN!!!!!!
I mean Damn Armand and Ella, who knew I needed these two in my life. Their lives tragic but a beautiful union was born.
Those of you who have read Kim and Leland's story is where we first meet Armand. Angry, violent just full of turbulence. Now present day, Armand is being traded from his former team (yet again), to the Cyclones (his step father's) team and in true fashion exploded, destroying everything in his path.
Ella is still reeling from her past relationship with a rapper who is now dead. Depressed, recovering and trying to get her life back on track, she is now living in St. Louis. Now living on her own, Ella is hoping that this will be what kick starts her life again.
Armand and Ella, two storms raging on the opposite ends, have now collided but what should have created a mega storm, actually causes them to quiet each other and blossom into a beautiful story of love, healing, and forgiveness.
Author Alexandria House takes us on a ride dealing with mental health, therapy, BDSM and Family. It truly was awesome to read.
And one of my all time favorite characters makes a short appearance "Unc aka Chester Lee" who always gives advice, mispronounces words and throws down on the grill LOL!! I just love that man.
Well Until My Next Review...Ciao!
I mean Damn Armand and Ella, who knew I needed these two in my life. Their lives tragic but a beautiful union was born.
Those of you who have read Kim and Leland's story is where we first meet Armand. Angry, violent just full of turbulence. Now present day, Armand is being traded from his former team (yet again), to the Cyclones (his step father's) team and in true fashion exploded, destroying everything in his path.
Ella is still reeling from her past relationship with a rapper who is now dead. Depressed, recovering and trying to get her life back on track, she is now living in St. Louis. Now living on her own, Ella is hoping that this will be what kick starts her life again.
Armand and Ella, two storms raging on the opposite ends, have now collided but what should have created a mega storm, actually causes them to quiet each other and blossom into a beautiful story of love, healing, and forgiveness.
Author Alexandria House takes us on a ride dealing with mental health, therapy, BDSM and Family. It truly was awesome to read.
And one of my all time favorite characters makes a short appearance "Unc aka Chester Lee" who always gives advice, mispronounces words and throws down on the grill LOL!! I just love that man.
Well Until My Next Review...Ciao!
August 5, 2022
This was another well written masterpiece by A. House....This was something different and Armand & Ella made it crystal clear that they loved one another and there wasn't anything or anyone that would get involved or stop them. This couple worked through a lot of issues and I was extremely pleased to see that. I enjoyed some other family issues being revealed and resolved. Now, for me I just need an occasional update on How Ella & Armand are doing.... Wesleigh & Jakobi will both be phenomenal voicing these characters. 08/04…So Wesleigh & Jakobi voiced these characters and Killed it..no surprise.
May 22, 2023
My goodness, not little Ella. Not Big South little girl. Well, she’s not little anymore. Ella grown now. Like grown grown. At first, I didn't think I was going to like Personal. But boy, was I wrong. This story was executed so well, so beautifully and so intricately done. Armand was just angry. He just couldn’t control his temper, and because of that, he ended up being traded to the Cyclones. He now plays on the same teams as his step daddy, who is only 7 years older than him. (This is a whole other thing. Gotta read Let Me Hold You.) Armand did not take the news well. But Armand will soon find out that moving to St. Louis would be the best thing for him. There, he met Ella. On the outside, Ella seems to be doing great and thriving. She’s in Paris Fashion Week, gracing the covers of magazines, traveling the world, and she gets to work with famous designer Claude DuMont. But, once you get to know Ella, you’ll realize she’s just a broken girl, masking her pain from the world…hell from her family too. Especially the pain from her last relationship. Once she met Armand, you could feel the sense of peace they must’ve felt. They were exactly what the other needed. Their attraction, their chemistry, the sex, it was so healing for them both. A. House did a fantastic job with this story.
Loved this series.
4.7⭐️
Loved this series.
4.7⭐️
April 2, 2022
Alex House had me soooo excited for this release! When she announced that this story would be centered around Ella McClain and Armand Daniels I was shook! I started this story not knowing what to expect! I definitely was not expecting this!
It’s been years since we’ve read about Ella and she is all grown up! Armand is still as troubled as he was back in Let Me Hold You! Both of these characters were extremely complex and their pairing was shocking. What had me shook was the Dom/Sub relationship that these two formed. I did not see that coming! The way they initially formed their relationship had me captivated! It was unexpected and extremely sexy. 🔥🔥🥵🥵 But I will say once the shock of their relationship wore off, I felt a bit let down.
Outside of their Dom/sub relationship, I felt that they lacked real genuine chemistry. The relationship felt forced in a way. Their relationship lacked depth. I also felt robbed of Ella’s back story. We learned that she faced some tough times through her relationship with a popular rapper and her mental health. I would have liked to see all of that play out on the pages. I also felt that not enough care was brought to Armand’s mental health issues. We saw that he agreed to work with a therapist but why weren’t we in on those sessions? I felt that the BDSM was a “quick fix” for Armand. I really would have liked for him to have a REAL in depth conversation with his mother as well.
I believe these two deserved a lot more than 187 pages! I wanted more! ❤️
Enough of my complaining! 😂
I did enjoy the strong family dynamics that Alex House always brings us. The unconditional love and undying support is always a joy to read. I loved how we saw that Armand was able to redeem himself in a way that made him likable.
I enjoyed reading the other characters that we have grown to love over Alex’s catalog! Big South is still bae! Jo is still a sweetheart! Leland and Kim are a match made in heaven. Ester is still….Ester 😂
Ella as a Dom was definitely sexy and an exciting way to switch things up! I loved both of their vulnerability and support of one another. I loved that these broken souls were showing up and being there for each other even if it was in an unconventional way. They both were lonely but found solace in each other.
As always the writing was on point! Alex House has a gift and I look forward to what’s to come!
Overall this was a good read! I recommend it!
It’s been years since we’ve read about Ella and she is all grown up! Armand is still as troubled as he was back in Let Me Hold You! Both of these characters were extremely complex and their pairing was shocking. What had me shook was the Dom/Sub relationship that these two formed. I did not see that coming! The way they initially formed their relationship had me captivated! It was unexpected and extremely sexy. 🔥🔥🥵🥵 But I will say once the shock of their relationship wore off, I felt a bit let down.
Outside of their Dom/sub relationship, I felt that they lacked real genuine chemistry. The relationship felt forced in a way. Their relationship lacked depth. I also felt robbed of Ella’s back story. We learned that she faced some tough times through her relationship with a popular rapper and her mental health. I would have liked to see all of that play out on the pages. I also felt that not enough care was brought to Armand’s mental health issues. We saw that he agreed to work with a therapist but why weren’t we in on those sessions? I felt that the BDSM was a “quick fix” for Armand. I really would have liked for him to have a REAL in depth conversation with his mother as well.
I believe these two deserved a lot more than 187 pages! I wanted more! ❤️
Enough of my complaining! 😂
I did enjoy the strong family dynamics that Alex House always brings us. The unconditional love and undying support is always a joy to read. I loved how we saw that Armand was able to redeem himself in a way that made him likable.
I enjoyed reading the other characters that we have grown to love over Alex’s catalog! Big South is still bae! Jo is still a sweetheart! Leland and Kim are a match made in heaven. Ester is still….Ester 😂
Ella as a Dom was definitely sexy and an exciting way to switch things up! I loved both of their vulnerability and support of one another. I loved that these broken souls were showing up and being there for each other even if it was in an unconventional way. They both were lonely but found solace in each other.
As always the writing was on point! Alex House has a gift and I look forward to what’s to come!
Overall this was a good read! I recommend it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 23, 2022
Personal is a exceptionally written story but l did have my issues. So I'll bump this up to a 3.25
Likes:
*I liked the conversations around men especially Black men not seeking therapy. The stigma behind it is archaic. Seeking help for unresolved trauma is not weak.
Armand needed it bad but he constantly refused. It took his agent threatening him for him to get help. How this man didn't understand that he needed therapy was not a surprise even a blind person knew Armand needed it like we need water.
*I liked the conversations around how the public views celebrity relationships. And how (the public) at times places its own romantic expectations on what it thinks a relationship should be on complete strangers. Ella's relationship with a now dead rapper had the elements of the whole Lauren London/Nipsey thing. Crazy ass fans holding you to some sort of dreamy ass expectation is weird and that mess needs to stop. Also to add, this is one of the may reasons why Black women tend stay quiet during abuse because of what the public/family/friends thinks of the partner they were/are with. On one was not a good person...period. But the fact that Ella had to stay quiet about her abuse from him because of his god like status as a lived and then unlived person was wild. I wish the community as a whole gave Black women more space to air out their grievances AND the grace to leave abuse without gaslighting.
*The sense of family in this story was good. I have always enjoyed that about Alex House books. The Mclains are the type of Black family I love to see on page. Shit ain't perfect and yeah bish we gonna fight at times. But we riding for a muthatrucka when they come at us wrong. Ella's relationship with her Father was beautiful to see on page. It was sad she felt she couldn't tell him about her abuse but I think old dude would have seriously dug that mans ass up and buried him again. I didn't have a issue with her and her Mother because sometimes depending of the foul, you have to put your parent on pause temporary or permanent. And Ella's mom stayed with the disrespect
Didn't Likes:
*Let's start with Armand and his mom. That situation rubbed me the wrong way because I truly felt like he was blaming her for the abuse that happened to her and I needed him to full stop. Yes, I understood he was angry about it. The experience of seeing a parent abused at a young age would f**k anyone up but why did he hold that anger towards her? And this ninja didn't want therapy?! Please. I would have loved to see a conversation on page between him and his mother, it just felt unresolved between them. 'I' wanted him to be more passionate in his apology to his mom and towards her and he wasn't (imo).
*Armand's therapy: Like I said above, I'm glad we saw him FINALLY get therapy but "I" wish we got more detailed conversations on page especially in regards to his relationship with his mother.
*The BDSM...sigh. I don't know if I liked it for this couple. Armand was imo too angry and Ella was depressed. I know this is a fictional story but it just didn't go together. I felt like he only went into it with her because he wanted to "f**k" her. And Ella coming from a abusive relationship to fall so fast...listen I did not see it and I did not see her with Armand. That dude was too explosive. Yes people change and yada BUT the time frame was too short and quick. Also, for both of them. BDSM read as a solvent to their trauma and NOT as a IN ADDITION to therapy. Would have also liked to seen Ella's therapy on page. Dealing with what she was dealing with in regards to on ones fans, remembering the abuse. It needed more of a deep dive. She was spiraling down.
Finally. There is things to like about Personal...there are. BUT my dislikes outweighed my likes. If I'm being honest, I did not see these two as a couple by the end of the story. Too much anger, trauma, etc. And the ending...too neatly wrapped up. Too much felt incomplete. The ending rushed. IDK, maybe Alex House will give us some sort of follow up to their story where we will get more background on both Armand and Ella. I know they are in previous stories but still.
**cw/tw: mentions of physical abuse, suicide, depression, extreme anger.
Likes:
*I liked the conversations around men especially Black men not seeking therapy. The stigma behind it is archaic. Seeking help for unresolved trauma is not weak.
Armand needed it bad but he constantly refused. It took his agent threatening him for him to get help. How this man didn't understand that he needed therapy was not a surprise even a blind person knew Armand needed it like we need water.
*I liked the conversations around how the public views celebrity relationships. And how (the public) at times places its own romantic expectations on what it thinks a relationship should be on complete strangers. Ella's relationship with a now dead rapper had the elements of the whole Lauren London/Nipsey thing. Crazy ass fans holding you to some sort of dreamy ass expectation is weird and that mess needs to stop. Also to add, this is one of the may reasons why Black women tend stay quiet during abuse because of what the public/family/friends thinks of the partner they were/are with. On one was not a good person...period. But the fact that Ella had to stay quiet about her abuse from him because of his god like status as a lived and then unlived person was wild. I wish the community as a whole gave Black women more space to air out their grievances AND the grace to leave abuse without gaslighting.
*The sense of family in this story was good. I have always enjoyed that about Alex House books. The Mclains are the type of Black family I love to see on page. Shit ain't perfect and yeah bish we gonna fight at times. But we riding for a muthatrucka when they come at us wrong. Ella's relationship with her Father was beautiful to see on page. It was sad she felt she couldn't tell him about her abuse but I think old dude would have seriously dug that mans ass up and buried him again. I didn't have a issue with her and her Mother because sometimes depending of the foul, you have to put your parent on pause temporary or permanent. And Ella's mom stayed with the disrespect
Didn't Likes:
*Let's start with Armand and his mom. That situation rubbed me the wrong way because I truly felt like he was blaming her for the abuse that happened to her and I needed him to full stop. Yes, I understood he was angry about it. The experience of seeing a parent abused at a young age would f**k anyone up but why did he hold that anger towards her? And this ninja didn't want therapy?! Please. I would have loved to see a conversation on page between him and his mother, it just felt unresolved between them. 'I' wanted him to be more passionate in his apology to his mom and towards her and he wasn't (imo).
*Armand's therapy: Like I said above, I'm glad we saw him FINALLY get therapy but "I" wish we got more detailed conversations on page especially in regards to his relationship with his mother.
*The BDSM...sigh. I don't know if I liked it for this couple. Armand was imo too angry and Ella was depressed. I know this is a fictional story but it just didn't go together. I felt like he only went into it with her because he wanted to "f**k" her. And Ella coming from a abusive relationship to fall so fast...listen I did not see it and I did not see her with Armand. That dude was too explosive. Yes people change and yada BUT the time frame was too short and quick. Also, for both of them. BDSM read as a solvent to their trauma and NOT as a IN ADDITION to therapy. Would have also liked to seen Ella's therapy on page. Dealing with what she was dealing with in regards to on ones fans, remembering the abuse. It needed more of a deep dive. She was spiraling down.
Finally. There is things to like about Personal...there are. BUT my dislikes outweighed my likes. If I'm being honest, I did not see these two as a couple by the end of the story. Too much anger, trauma, etc. And the ending...too neatly wrapped up. Too much felt incomplete. The ending rushed. IDK, maybe Alex House will give us some sort of follow up to their story where we will get more background on both Armand and Ella. I know they are in previous stories but still.
**cw/tw: mentions of physical abuse, suicide, depression, extreme anger.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 4, 2024
Ella was grown grown and I'm not sure if I was ready. 😫😫😫😫
August 28, 2022
Miss Ella McClain has grown up!!!! Sis!!!! Ok den!!! I’ve been a fan of the McClain family from day one so I knew I would love Ella and Armand’s story! I’ve been patiently waiting for Jakobi and Wesleigh to bless my ears and they did not disappoint. I loved the way Ella and Armand bonded with each other. She was a true healing for him and neither of them let anything stand in the way of being with each other! Ugh I just love them! 🥰🥰🥰
May 31, 2024
You can't read a House book and not love it. She just has the ability to spit out gripping love stories with flawed individuals, and this book is no different.
We get up close and personal with “bad boy” NBA star, Armand Daniels, and the “privileged and protected” daughter of rapper Big South, Ella McClain.
Armand Daniels is a handsome and talented NBA star with a reputation for being irrational, explosive, and unstable. He is seen as a liability and an asset and has been traded a few times because of his temper and attitude. He is recently traded to the Cyclones, causing him to question himself and think about change.
Elle McClain, daughter of the most famous rapper in the world and a beauty icon, she’s been pampered, privileged, and protected her entire life. She’s a successful model, faces with personal conflict and challenges, and she wishes to slow down and pull back from the limelight.
Armand and Ella cross paths, and their attraction is combustible and their passion limitless. They are an unlikely pair, but their chemistry is undeniable. Developing a unique relationship, passion turns to love.
Both carrying past pain and current issues, they are faced with the need to re-evaluate their life and make changes, starting with loving and caring for each other.
Ms. House does it again. Familiar and flawed characters, navigating life’s conflict and past trauma while experiencing love. She gives you multilayered and complicated individuals you relate with and feel compassion for. Her plots are also relatable, and the added twists and turns lend to a gripping story.
Libby listen 🎶
We get up close and personal with “bad boy” NBA star, Armand Daniels, and the “privileged and protected” daughter of rapper Big South, Ella McClain.
Armand Daniels is a handsome and talented NBA star with a reputation for being irrational, explosive, and unstable. He is seen as a liability and an asset and has been traded a few times because of his temper and attitude. He is recently traded to the Cyclones, causing him to question himself and think about change.
Elle McClain, daughter of the most famous rapper in the world and a beauty icon, she’s been pampered, privileged, and protected her entire life. She’s a successful model, faces with personal conflict and challenges, and she wishes to slow down and pull back from the limelight.
Armand and Ella cross paths, and their attraction is combustible and their passion limitless. They are an unlikely pair, but their chemistry is undeniable. Developing a unique relationship, passion turns to love.
Both carrying past pain and current issues, they are faced with the need to re-evaluate their life and make changes, starting with loving and caring for each other.
Ms. House does it again. Familiar and flawed characters, navigating life’s conflict and past trauma while experiencing love. She gives you multilayered and complicated individuals you relate with and feel compassion for. Her plots are also relatable, and the added twists and turns lend to a gripping story.
Libby listen 🎶
July 1, 2022
I just couldn’t get over Armand being one of his mother’s abusers as established in Leland’s book in the McClain series. It also felt like he blamed his mom for getting abused I understand seeing a parent get abused will fuck with any child but I just can’t get over it especially with his half ass apology to his mum and just like most mums she forgives him because that’s her baby but I think that should’ve been handled better and even his relationships with his siblings needs to be worked on.
As for Ella, I felt like her relationship with someone as combustible as Armand after the abuse she suffered in the hands of her ex was off balanced. She needed someone emotionally strong that can lift her up & help with her depression not someone with as much emotional baggage as Armand has. And the use of BDSM felt like a buffer to these two individuals problems, like they both need a lot more therapy especially Armand as a person who has spent 15+ years filled with rage & violence wouldn’t just be cured because of some paddling or flogging. And to add a baby into that? NAH 2 ⭐️’s because I got to see that Big south and Jo have added twins to their family & that little Leland is now 8yrs old 💕
As for Ella, I felt like her relationship with someone as combustible as Armand after the abuse she suffered in the hands of her ex was off balanced. She needed someone emotionally strong that can lift her up & help with her depression not someone with as much emotional baggage as Armand has. And the use of BDSM felt like a buffer to these two individuals problems, like they both need a lot more therapy especially Armand as a person who has spent 15+ years filled with rage & violence wouldn’t just be cured because of some paddling or flogging. And to add a baby into that? NAH 2 ⭐️’s because I got to see that Big south and Jo have added twins to their family & that little Leland is now 8yrs old 💕
May 9, 2023
I was so torn about reading this book once I realized who the MMC was, but I’m glad I stuck it out! This was my favorite of the series❤️
April 19, 2022
4.5 Stars Review to come soon. Potential to change once this fully sits with me!
April 24, 2023
Unexpected Love
Well damn!!!!!!! I don't think I was ready for this story like at all. They left me speechless.
Big South's sweet Ella is all grown up now. We find her healing from an abusive relationship with a famous rapper that didn't end well. Ella is now a model in her own right, but is seeking peace away from her home town. Baby girl refuses to be powerless again and demands everything she wants when it comes to relationships.
Armand Daniels the infamous bad boy of the NBA, is the son of Kim who married Leland (Ella's uncle) in "Let Me Hold You." Leland was a teammate of Armand's and the way he showed his as$ about their relationship was not something anyone would forget. Armand was forced to grow up too soon having to constantly fight off the man that harmed his mother. While she was a good mother she was attracted to men that abused her. This left him with a lot of anger that he hadn't handled well for years until he met Ella.
Listen when I tell you I was not ready for Ella's role in their relationship. Honey I was not 😯. Ella was the initiator of BDSM between her and Armand. It honestly tells you how much of a chokehold she had this man in because he was naturally combative, but not with Ella. With Ella he was a different man..he was calm, caring, and submissive. He did his best to think about actions because he was still a protector at heart, but now he understood the impact of those actions. Between Ella and his therapist he was able to positively experience a real love with Ella. These two were explosive in the bedroom, and so sweet and caring outside of it. While they may have seemed like an unexpected pairing, they were perfect for each other.
When I tell you this story was goodt!! It was the perfect sports romance, because it covered mental health, the impacts of abusive relationships, depression, overcoming suicide of a loved one, estranged parental relationships, and BDSM and the benefits. I mean if you are an expert and sports romance just say that Ms. House!!
P.s. The sir part took me all the way out. Like I'm just wow.
Well damn!!!!!!! I don't think I was ready for this story like at all. They left me speechless.
Big South's sweet Ella is all grown up now. We find her healing from an abusive relationship with a famous rapper that didn't end well. Ella is now a model in her own right, but is seeking peace away from her home town. Baby girl refuses to be powerless again and demands everything she wants when it comes to relationships.
Armand Daniels the infamous bad boy of the NBA, is the son of Kim who married Leland (Ella's uncle) in "Let Me Hold You." Leland was a teammate of Armand's and the way he showed his as$ about their relationship was not something anyone would forget. Armand was forced to grow up too soon having to constantly fight off the man that harmed his mother. While she was a good mother she was attracted to men that abused her. This left him with a lot of anger that he hadn't handled well for years until he met Ella.
Listen when I tell you I was not ready for Ella's role in their relationship. Honey I was not 😯. Ella was the initiator of BDSM between her and Armand. It honestly tells you how much of a chokehold she had this man in because he was naturally combative, but not with Ella. With Ella he was a different man..he was calm, caring, and submissive. He did his best to think about actions because he was still a protector at heart, but now he understood the impact of those actions. Between Ella and his therapist he was able to positively experience a real love with Ella. These two were explosive in the bedroom, and so sweet and caring outside of it. While they may have seemed like an unexpected pairing, they were perfect for each other.
When I tell you this story was goodt!! It was the perfect sports romance, because it covered mental health, the impacts of abusive relationships, depression, overcoming suicide of a loved one, estranged parental relationships, and BDSM and the benefits. I mean if you are an expert and sports romance just say that Ms. House!!
P.s. The sir part took me all the way out. Like I'm just wow.
February 22, 2023
For best reading experience, Let Me Love You and Let Me Hold You should be read prior to reading Personal. Ella, the heroine, is the daughter of Big South from Let Me Love You. Armand is the son of the heroine from Let Me Hold You.
Personal is the final book in the St. Louis Cyclones series, and it has been a ride! Ella and Armand are familiar characters who surprisingly ended up being perfect for each other. Armand, an NBA player, has a history of being volatile, angry and quick to explode. His latest behavior has landed him being traded to the St. Louis Cyclones team, much to his chagrin since his mom's husband (Leland McClain) is on the team as well. Meanwhile, Ella has recently moved to the area for a change of scenery and to be closer to her uncle and his family. She has some trauma in her past that she's still working to overcome, but has made strides over the last few years with therapy and...other coping skills. These two meet during dinner at Armand's mom's house, where the chemistry between them is evident. However, their relationship is not at all what Armand was expecting from little Ella McClain.
I was pleasantly surprised to find that Ella and Armand's romance was a beautiful example of how BDSM/kink can be used for healing purposes. Ella has her reasons for wanting to be in control. Meanwhile Armand discovers that being submissive and learning to view pain in a different manner is beneficial to him in a way he never dreamed of. Of course, their BDSM relationship did not take away from the work that Armand had to do through weekly therapy sessions. The mental health rep was impeccable here because intermittent explosive disorder is more common than I thought. Given how Armand acted in Let Me Hold You, I loved getting to know his character more. He was absolutely redeemed in this book and you could feel the shift in him as the book went on.
I loved everything about Ella and Armand together! EVERYTHING. I'm so sad this series is over, but the McClain family and the St. Louis Cyclones series has been a great reading experience!
TROPES: black romance/BIPOC/OWN voices; no 3rd act breakup; basketball hero; famous hero/heroine; rich hero/heroine; BDSM as healing/domme-sub relationship; mental health rep; love after heartbreak; great family/friend group
TRIGGER WARNINGS: mentions of domestic abuse; death of a parent; mentions of drug abuse
Personal is the final book in the St. Louis Cyclones series, and it has been a ride! Ella and Armand are familiar characters who surprisingly ended up being perfect for each other. Armand, an NBA player, has a history of being volatile, angry and quick to explode. His latest behavior has landed him being traded to the St. Louis Cyclones team, much to his chagrin since his mom's husband (Leland McClain) is on the team as well. Meanwhile, Ella has recently moved to the area for a change of scenery and to be closer to her uncle and his family. She has some trauma in her past that she's still working to overcome, but has made strides over the last few years with therapy and...other coping skills. These two meet during dinner at Armand's mom's house, where the chemistry between them is evident. However, their relationship is not at all what Armand was expecting from little Ella McClain.
I was pleasantly surprised to find that Ella and Armand's romance was a beautiful example of how BDSM/kink can be used for healing purposes. Ella has her reasons for wanting to be in control. Meanwhile Armand discovers that being submissive and learning to view pain in a different manner is beneficial to him in a way he never dreamed of. Of course, their BDSM relationship did not take away from the work that Armand had to do through weekly therapy sessions. The mental health rep was impeccable here because intermittent explosive disorder is more common than I thought. Given how Armand acted in Let Me Hold You, I loved getting to know his character more. He was absolutely redeemed in this book and you could feel the shift in him as the book went on.
I loved everything about Ella and Armand together! EVERYTHING. I'm so sad this series is over, but the McClain family and the St. Louis Cyclones series has been a great reading experience!
TROPES: black romance/BIPOC/OWN voices; no 3rd act breakup; basketball hero; famous hero/heroine; rich hero/heroine; BDSM as healing/domme-sub relationship; mental health rep; love after heartbreak; great family/friend group
TRIGGER WARNINGS: mentions of domestic abuse; death of a parent; mentions of drug abuse
February 25, 2024
Honey I was not expecting this at all but Armand & Ella’s story was so good.
Wesleigh & Jakobi are top tier 🔥
Wesleigh & Jakobi are top tier 🔥
March 28, 2022
When AH announced this book, I was nervous and didn’t know what to expect. But like all others, Alexandria gave us what we didn’t see coming and I love it! Without giving it away, I was thrown off by Ella’s request of Armand but quickly understood the purpose of it. It was nice to see Armand be vulnerable because he was not likable when we met him in Leland and Kim’s story. It’s always a pleasure hearing from the McClains. I hope to see more from them.
March 21, 2023
This was the second DNF of this series. I inhaled the McClain Brothers books (except for the last one that was a challenge)…this was odd in so many ways. 8years have passed since Armand put his mother in the hospital (I’m calling it what it was) and he’s still acting like a child. There is no chemistry between Ella and Armand. I feel nothing, not tugging on heartstrings nada! Also that is not how you introduce someone to BDSM in the slightest and is honestly icky af. The whole things felt rushed but also not considering I DNFd at 41% and it’s like I missed nothing but an very angry man who has not grown in 8years and a woman who we’ve basically had to have trauma dumped because she had to be the MC for continuity purposes. The attraction wasn’t believable I would rather read another 100 pages of Neil saying Grand Rising than finish this book
May 2, 2024
Idk why but I didn’t enjoy this one and I’m so mad because this will be the first ever 3 star review I give Alexandria House 😭 I honestly couldn’t get into the “sir” stuff. At one point it seems he just only said that in a sentence. Outside of the sir stuff the story was cute and I love how they progressed together but that damn sir thing was too overwhelming for me
September 16, 2024
wait TEAAAAA
January 14, 2023
3.5 stars for Boogie and Ella
I liked Armand and I loved that I learned about Intermittent explosive disorder. I didn't like how he behaved with his mom in Leland's book Let Me Hold You. This book allowed Armand a chance to figure out why he was flying into rages with everyone and begin the process of healing from his trauma. Now he meets Ella, Big South's daughter, who is also dealing with the fallout of her last relationship as well as the abuse she suffered at the boyfriend's hands.
It was like the second generation of the McClains finding love. I loved how the author weaved the characters we have grown to love with the new kids.
I just didn't buy the relationship dynamic with Ella and Armand. There wasn't enough set up to build trust for that. Armand and his rage issues acquiesced a little too fast and easy especially. I also didn't get the sense of true alpha dominance from Ella. I definitely regret listening to the book because the narrator Wesleigh Siobhan didn't pull it an assertive, commanding and dominant presence at all. Especially when couple with Jakobi Diem, it just didn't ring authentic to me.
I did enjoy their devotion and loyalty to each other and think they were good for each other. Bonus for me was Unc calling Boogie, Booger. He always manages to add levity to all situations. A good love story in this series.
I liked Armand and I loved that I learned about Intermittent explosive disorder. I didn't like how he behaved with his mom in Leland's book Let Me Hold You. This book allowed Armand a chance to figure out why he was flying into rages with everyone and begin the process of healing from his trauma. Now he meets Ella, Big South's daughter, who is also dealing with the fallout of her last relationship as well as the abuse she suffered at the boyfriend's hands.
It was like the second generation of the McClains finding love. I loved how the author weaved the characters we have grown to love with the new kids.
I just didn't buy the relationship dynamic with Ella and Armand. There wasn't enough set up to build trust for that. Armand and his rage issues acquiesced a little too fast and easy especially. I also didn't get the sense of true alpha dominance from Ella. I definitely regret listening to the book because the narrator Wesleigh Siobhan didn't pull it an assertive, commanding and dominant presence at all. Especially when couple with Jakobi Diem, it just didn't ring authentic to me.
I did enjoy their devotion and loyalty to each other and think they were good for each other. Bonus for me was Unc calling Boogie, Booger. He always manages to add levity to all situations. A good love story in this series.
April 3, 2022
Whew!!!!!!!
I am thoroughly convinced that this author is a lover of Black men, unadulterated Black love because whew the way she loves on her Black male leads by uncovering their vulnerabilities and their truth while covering them in love is worthy of acknowledgement. (I know that was a long sentence but you get my point). Armand's traumatic past set an explosive present but the perfect collision with Ella who also suffered a traumatic past was a necessary kismet. Oftentimes people would caution such pairing but their coupling was crucial on their journey to self discovery and healing. I loved how they did not fight their feelings for each other and that they were not playing any games. Of course Leland was going to trip but no matter how her family felt, Ella stood by her man. Appreciate Unc Chester appearance because I needed that comic relief because this was so emotional. Another great read!
I am thoroughly convinced that this author is a lover of Black men, unadulterated Black love because whew the way she loves on her Black male leads by uncovering their vulnerabilities and their truth while covering them in love is worthy of acknowledgement. (I know that was a long sentence but you get my point). Armand's traumatic past set an explosive present but the perfect collision with Ella who also suffered a traumatic past was a necessary kismet. Oftentimes people would caution such pairing but their coupling was crucial on their journey to self discovery and healing. I loved how they did not fight their feelings for each other and that they were not playing any games. Of course Leland was going to trip but no matter how her family felt, Ella stood by her man. Appreciate Unc Chester appearance because I needed that comic relief because this was so emotional. Another great read!
December 21, 2023
I Need a Drink!
Wow! This book was so intense. I forgot about Armand’s character from Let Me Hold You. Once I realized who he was, I was even more excited to read his story. I saw early reviews complaining about his explosive temper. I found him to be endearing and lovable. It took me some time to warm up to Ella in this book. Their love for each other was so beautiful. It didn’t bother me to see her trying to heal a broken man, because he reciprocated that healing for her brokenness. The BDSM element was a surprise that I didn’t think I’d enjoy. I ended up loving it! Their intimacy was mouthwatering. Like always, I was ecstatic to get a cameo from Big South. He will always be my personal favorite. I loved this book from beginning to end. This series is everything!
Wow! This book was so intense. I forgot about Armand’s character from Let Me Hold You. Once I realized who he was, I was even more excited to read his story. I saw early reviews complaining about his explosive temper. I found him to be endearing and lovable. It took me some time to warm up to Ella in this book. Their love for each other was so beautiful. It didn’t bother me to see her trying to heal a broken man, because he reciprocated that healing for her brokenness. The BDSM element was a surprise that I didn’t think I’d enjoy. I ended up loving it! Their intimacy was mouthwatering. Like always, I was ecstatic to get a cameo from Big South. He will always be my personal favorite. I loved this book from beginning to end. This series is everything!
July 3, 2023
I didn’t think I would like Armand with Ella but I was so wrong! I was also not ready for what their relationship dynamics were either. Who knew Ella was such a boss? I love how they both healed hurts and overcame brokenness together. It was ugly and beautiful at the same time.
And Uncle Lee Chester was only in the book briefly but enough to have me laughing uncontrollably. Ashtray? Armor All? I was weak!
And Uncle Lee Chester was only in the book briefly but enough to have me laughing uncontrollably. Ashtray? Armor All? I was weak!
October 16, 2023
If I was wearing some pearls, I'd be clutching them. This book was 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥.
September 2, 2022
I didnt want it to end! I think all the readers had to get use to Ella being 23 and grown! Lol because “SIR”.. whewww child! Mz House hit this out the park! I will always love a McClain family book! Keep them coming!
April 25, 2024
Audiobook & eBook
This is the relationship that I didn't know I needed and wanted to read! I love the development of the characters!
This is the relationship that I didn't know I needed and wanted to read! I love the development of the characters!
March 26, 2022
Alexandria House can write no wrong when it comes to my favorite family the Mcclains! I’m trying to figure out how I can Marry in! I’m so serious! Ella is not a baby anymore and Armand is the definition of a bad boy! Ella got him to tame it down some and I loved seeing their journey. I also loved all the cameos per usual! Alexandria knows she can write some crossover greatness!
November 6, 2025
Sir 🤭
Just finished my re-read and this book gets better and better every single time!! Forever one of my favorites. I love how it shows that sometimes it just takes one unexpected person to completely change the trajectory of your life. Ella and Armand got down, and I loved every single minute of it!
Just finished my re-read and this book gets better and better every single time!! Forever one of my favorites. I love how it shows that sometimes it just takes one unexpected person to completely change the trajectory of your life. Ella and Armand got down, and I loved every single minute of it!
July 9, 2024
This book wasn’t for me. I’m not a big fan of bdsm and especially in this case with the man as the sub. Him calling her Sir threw me off. Why couldn’t she be ma’am or something? It wasn’t a horrible book but not for me.
March 9, 2023
DNF - ugh. I did not like this one at all. He was a submissive and that is not my jam. I like a different type of man. Then he called her Sir. I was done. No thanks!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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