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The Hood's Virgin Mary
There’s been some tales of a few Mommy Dearest copycats, but Stella make them all look like loving mothers from a hit TV sitcom. Her get-rich, quick scheme ideas is what powers her to wake up every morning, besides her growing addiction. Everybody who crosses paths with her is a casualty, including her own daughter.
Carmee thinks she has seen the worst of it all, being born to a drug addicted mother—who often forgets to provide the basic necessities needed to assure her survival—like food and water.
One evening, Carmee is jolted from her sleep, only to find her mother, Stella, standing over her ominously. After being knocked back into dreamland, she is awakened with a headache much more severe than her usual, due to lack of nourishment. In a bloody haze, Carmee hears Stella
utters, “Life is about to change for us, and for the better.”
Lying there helplessly, Carmee can only wonder. Will her mother’s wicked deed turn out to be a blessing in disguise or her worst nightmare?
Carmee thinks she has seen the worst of it all, being born to a drug addicted mother—who often forgets to provide the basic necessities needed to assure her survival—like food and water.
One evening, Carmee is jolted from her sleep, only to find her mother, Stella, standing over her ominously. After being knocked back into dreamland, she is awakened with a headache much more severe than her usual, due to lack of nourishment. In a bloody haze, Carmee hears Stella
utters, “Life is about to change for us, and for the better.”
Lying there helplessly, Carmee can only wonder. Will her mother’s wicked deed turn out to be a blessing in disguise or her worst nightmare?
- GenresUrban
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 27, 2022
563 people are currently reading
185 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
November 3, 2022
3.5⭐
This was my first read from this author and while I heard great things about it, the content was a little heavy for me. I understand a lot of "urban" books deal in and with trauma, and while that's not my favorite thing to read, I do understand. However, I like to see an evolution of a story that makes the trauma worth it. This story just layered trauma upon trauma with not nearly enough light for me. It was written pretty well, I followed along perfectly with no confusion, but at no point did I smile or feel any happiness. I'm sure the next installment will be even more drama considering how this book ended and while I would like to see Carmee find some happiness and peace in her life, I think more chaos in the form of her egg donor is coming her way. The best part was the change in Ox, but I honestly didn't understand what made him do a complete 180.
This story was a lot. Again, it was written well just not for me.
This was my first read from this author and while I heard great things about it, the content was a little heavy for me. I understand a lot of "urban" books deal in and with trauma, and while that's not my favorite thing to read, I do understand. However, I like to see an evolution of a story that makes the trauma worth it. This story just layered trauma upon trauma with not nearly enough light for me. It was written pretty well, I followed along perfectly with no confusion, but at no point did I smile or feel any happiness. I'm sure the next installment will be even more drama considering how this book ended and while I would like to see Carmee find some happiness and peace in her life, I think more chaos in the form of her egg donor is coming her way. The best part was the change in Ox, but I honestly didn't understand what made him do a complete 180.
This story was a lot. Again, it was written well just not for me.
May 29, 2022
Unique
This is definitely a different type of story. I wasn’t sure if I’d enjoy it but I was pleasantly surprised. Carmee grew on me and despite his heathen ways I like Ox. I’m glad he changed his mind about baby boy. Baby girl gotta toughen up some though to handle the coming trials she’ll face. Hopefully Ox help her like she helped him a little. Glad she knew not to smoke that laced cigarette. Had me scared for her for a minute. Ready for part 2
This is definitely a different type of story. I wasn’t sure if I’d enjoy it but I was pleasantly surprised. Carmee grew on me and despite his heathen ways I like Ox. I’m glad he changed his mind about baby boy. Baby girl gotta toughen up some though to handle the coming trials she’ll face. Hopefully Ox help her like she helped him a little. Glad she knew not to smoke that laced cigarette. Had me scared for her for a minute. Ready for part 2
June 2, 2022
Jaw dropping
The first page captures your attention right away! Never read an opening scene quite like that. Carmee was dealt such a bad hand and her mother worst book mom ever. Ox was so mean but I knew it would take that one chick to reel him in. Now they in love and a threat is arising! Come on part 2
The first page captures your attention right away! Never read an opening scene quite like that. Carmee was dealt such a bad hand and her mother worst book mom ever. Ox was so mean but I knew it would take that one chick to reel him in. Now they in love and a threat is arising! Come on part 2
May 31, 2022
Shesshhh i couldn’t put this book down
That damn Stella is a mess! I pray Carmee is smart enough to not fall into her trap! She is doing so good right now! She’s been through hell and back!! This book had me on a roller coaster!!! Can’t wait for part 2!!!!
That damn Stella is a mess! I pray Carmee is smart enough to not fall into her trap! She is doing so good right now! She’s been through hell and back!! This book had me on a roller coaster!!! Can’t wait for part 2!!!!
June 3, 2022
😍😍😍😍😍
Hold on if Stella send Ox to jail how do she plan on getting money from him ? ? ? Who is Carmee going to be loyal too ? ? ? Are Kathena and Carmee sisters ? ? ? Will we meet Carmee’s sisters ? ? ?
Hold on if Stella send Ox to jail how do she plan on getting money from him ? ? ? Who is Carmee going to be loyal too ? ? ? Are Kathena and Carmee sisters ? ? ? Will we meet Carmee’s sisters ? ? ?
October 9, 2022
This was a very unique storyline. When I first saw the title, I was trying to figure out how this would come together. And what I did not expect was for my mind to be blown away-I laughed so hard when I finally understood the title. I’ve never read anything quite like this book it definitely captured my attention. I am curious to see how it all comes together. My heart aches for Carmee; Stella deserves all the karma! Good plot, interesting characters with deep rooted feelings/issues.
October 16, 2022
getting good.
Well I cried the first half of this book and laughed the second half of this book. I so hope Stella gets what she deserves. And I CeCe gets what she deserves as well. On to the next one
Well I cried the first half of this book and laughed the second half of this book. I so hope Stella gets what she deserves. And I CeCe gets what she deserves as well. On to the next one
April 2, 2025
I was entertained but I don’t think the intended audience is adults. I didn’t like it.
June 17, 2025
Haven’t read anything like this. Whole book I’m like wth is going on. Heavy subjects. Trigger warning is needed.
May 30, 2022
Stella done signed her death wish
Baby Ox bout to cut up
Rasta can’t catch a break
I hope Cee-Cee testify against Stella
Part 2 is needed
Baby Ox bout to cut up
Rasta can’t catch a break
I hope Cee-Cee testify against Stella
Part 2 is needed
August 9, 2022
Left Much to be Desires
I love Diamond! She’s one of my favorite authors but this series has so much wrong with it!! There is no growth with any of the characters except potentially Flex! I’m more interested in seeing his story develop!! BUT IM SICK OF Camaree and I’m sick of Ox! She’s clearly underage even though it’s considered “normal” in the hood I just can’t do this series!! Like she is too needy and her mindset is just not developing right along with Ox whose immature af!
I love Diamond! She’s one of my favorite authors but this series has so much wrong with it!! There is no growth with any of the characters except potentially Flex! I’m more interested in seeing his story develop!! BUT IM SICK OF Camaree and I’m sick of Ox! She’s clearly underage even though it’s considered “normal” in the hood I just can’t do this series!! Like she is too needy and her mindset is just not developing right along with Ox whose immature af!
June 13, 2022
My heart
Omg! My heart started out heavy as i read this book. I was so sad for Carmee and the way she was forced to live. Her own moma literally raped her with a turkey baster and the poor girl knew no better. Eventho June had her flaws, she was truly heaven sent because without her, that girl wouldve surely died. I was so happ that things unfolded the way they did for her. Ox started off on my bad side but the more time he spent around Carmee, i could literally see him falling in love with her because she was as innocent and pure as a newborn baby. It warmed my heart the more he opened up to her and made her his girlfriend. I cant wait for part to drop because I definitely wanna read more of their story. Its so sweet how 2 tormented souls came together and were learning to love each other.
Omg! My heart started out heavy as i read this book. I was so sad for Carmee and the way she was forced to live. Her own moma literally raped her with a turkey baster and the poor girl knew no better. Eventho June had her flaws, she was truly heaven sent because without her, that girl wouldve surely died. I was so happ that things unfolded the way they did for her. Ox started off on my bad side but the more time he spent around Carmee, i could literally see him falling in love with her because she was as innocent and pure as a newborn baby. It warmed my heart the more he opened up to her and made her his girlfriend. I cant wait for part to drop because I definitely wanna read more of their story. Its so sweet how 2 tormented souls came together and were learning to love each other.
July 4, 2022
Oxxxxxx and carmeeeeeee
Omggggggg babyyyy ox is a hot mess and I love it cause he reminds me of myself just mean but don't want anyone to get close but I knew he was going to fall in lobe with carmee its so fucked up that Stella crust ass did that baby wrong she knows better and deserves to be in jail cutti and Lana trying to be grandparents yesssssss I'm glad he letting her keep the baby cause that baby is going to bring so much joy I'm so ready for part 2 this book was amazing
Omggggggg babyyyy ox is a hot mess and I love it cause he reminds me of myself just mean but don't want anyone to get close but I knew he was going to fall in lobe with carmee its so fucked up that Stella crust ass did that baby wrong she knows better and deserves to be in jail cutti and Lana trying to be grandparents yesssssss I'm glad he letting her keep the baby cause that baby is going to bring so much joy I'm so ready for part 2 this book was amazing
August 12, 2022
OMG!!!
Baby!!! The statement‘aww bless her heart’ definitely applies to CeeCee! I felt so bad for laughing at some of the things she should have already knew, but I blame that on her stupid ahh mama!!! That’s one person I want to be un-alive CAUSE WHY?!?!!
That Ox, baby that’s one little ahh-hole I have a love hate relationship with because I get it but don’t treat CeeCee like that my dude. But he got right.
This is the first book I’ve read from this author and I wasn’t disappointed.
Great job.
Baby!!! The statement‘aww bless her heart’ definitely applies to CeeCee! I felt so bad for laughing at some of the things she should have already knew, but I blame that on her stupid ahh mama!!! That’s one person I want to be un-alive CAUSE WHY?!?!!
That Ox, baby that’s one little ahh-hole I have a love hate relationship with because I get it but don’t treat CeeCee like that my dude. But he got right.
This is the first book I’ve read from this author and I wasn’t disappointed.
Great job.
November 6, 2022
Better than I expected
Warning!! This book should come with plenty of trigger warnings. It took me awhile to get into this book. I put it down SEVERAL times. It's so dark,sad & traumatizing. IF, you can make it past the first several chapters, it does get better. I was actually surprised because it took a different turn extremely QUICK! I'm committed to reading the other books in this series now. Not to give any spoilers, but the main female character is a 16 year old girl. I'm still not over that, even as I am about to read the next book.
Warning!! This book should come with plenty of trigger warnings. It took me awhile to get into this book. I put it down SEVERAL times. It's so dark,sad & traumatizing. IF, you can make it past the first several chapters, it does get better. I was actually surprised because it took a different turn extremely QUICK! I'm committed to reading the other books in this series now. Not to give any spoilers, but the main female character is a 16 year old girl. I'm still not over that, even as I am about to read the next book.
May 30, 2022
wow
This book was insane! I was clutching my pearls damn near the entire book! Stella has got to go! I’ve got to know how this plays out
This book was insane! I was clutching my pearls damn near the entire book! Stella has got to go! I’ve got to know how this plays out
May 31, 2022
Sobbing!!!
My heart went out to Carmee, the way Stella did her was beyond horrible. I wanted so many times to jump in through my phone and whip Stella. Ox, where do I begin. He made me so mad with the way he was treating Carmee, talking to her crazy and mistreating her. But understanding what he went through as a child was why. I want him to give Cutti a chance to be his father. Sweet Lana, she was definitely a God send for Carmee. I'm happy that he did not make her go through with the abortion. Junee was Carmee's angel until her death. Now Stella, you are making trouble once again for your daughter all because you are selfish asf. I hope that Ox doesn't take what Stella is doing out on Carmee. Ready for part 2.
My heart went out to Carmee, the way Stella did her was beyond horrible. I wanted so many times to jump in through my phone and whip Stella. Ox, where do I begin. He made me so mad with the way he was treating Carmee, talking to her crazy and mistreating her. But understanding what he went through as a child was why. I want him to give Cutti a chance to be his father. Sweet Lana, she was definitely a God send for Carmee. I'm happy that he did not make her go through with the abortion. Junee was Carmee's angel until her death. Now Stella, you are making trouble once again for your daughter all because you are selfish asf. I hope that Ox doesn't take what Stella is doing out on Carmee. Ready for part 2.
March 30, 2023
gained a new reader
I love Carmee but hate she had to endure such mess at the hands of her mother. Carmee gives me such a pure soul and optimistic vibe. Ox made me mad trying to kill her light at first but I’m sooo glad she wasn’t easily influenced and kept that happy light within her. Ox acted like they didn’t have somewhat of similar childhood and throwing shade her way every time she didn’t comprehend something irritated me. Once the tough guy persona got pass and he accepted what he was feeling relieved me and now I don’t have to yell at him while I read lol. Stella is up to her shenanigans still though and she needs to get dealt with. Running to number 2!! Btw beautiful flow and emotion behind this. New to me author did not disappoint and did not come to play!!
I love Carmee but hate she had to endure such mess at the hands of her mother. Carmee gives me such a pure soul and optimistic vibe. Ox made me mad trying to kill her light at first but I’m sooo glad she wasn’t easily influenced and kept that happy light within her. Ox acted like they didn’t have somewhat of similar childhood and throwing shade her way every time she didn’t comprehend something irritated me. Once the tough guy persona got pass and he accepted what he was feeling relieved me and now I don’t have to yell at him while I read lol. Stella is up to her shenanigans still though and she needs to get dealt with. Running to number 2!! Btw beautiful flow and emotion behind this. New to me author did not disappoint and did not come to play!!
April 13, 2024
Childhood Trauma
This book had me on an emotional roller coaster!!!…I had to stop reading it because the mistreatment of Carmee really disturbed my spirit!!!…
I was really sad for Carmee to find June the way she did!!!…June had her problems, but she made sure to look out for Carmee!!!…
Stella is a WHOLE HOT MESS out here in these streets!!!…I can’t wait to hear what happens when she realize that Carmee now has a village that is helping her and living her!!!…
I was so angry with Ox because of the way he was treating his father, his stepmom and Carmee, but has his layers peeled back, I understood why he behaved the way he did!!!…He was definitely a tortured soul!!!…
This book was written so beautifully and kept my attn with every page I turned!!!…
This book had me on an emotional roller coaster!!!…I had to stop reading it because the mistreatment of Carmee really disturbed my spirit!!!…
I was really sad for Carmee to find June the way she did!!!…June had her problems, but she made sure to look out for Carmee!!!…
Stella is a WHOLE HOT MESS out here in these streets!!!…I can’t wait to hear what happens when she realize that Carmee now has a village that is helping her and living her!!!…
I was so angry with Ox because of the way he was treating his father, his stepmom and Carmee, but has his layers peeled back, I understood why he behaved the way he did!!!…He was definitely a tortured soul!!!…
This book was written so beautifully and kept my attn with every page I turned!!!…
March 7, 2025
So I definitely judged a book by its cover.. yet again. I was super hesitant to read this book, just because of the cover and the blurb but whew, you are in for a ride.
First off, I felt so bad for Carmee. She was born to a crack addict mother, who kept her hidden due to being scared of having Carmee taken away. Carmee spent the first 15/16 years of her life locked away in a pest infested, no utilities or water, dirty apartment.
I don't want to give anything away (which is super hard with a book like this) but it is a wild ride. If you are easily triggered or sensitive, please look at the trigger warnings (there are several lol).
It does end on a big cliffhanger that will make you want to read the second book so I'm reading that ASAP
First off, I felt so bad for Carmee. She was born to a crack addict mother, who kept her hidden due to being scared of having Carmee taken away. Carmee spent the first 15/16 years of her life locked away in a pest infested, no utilities or water, dirty apartment.
I don't want to give anything away (which is super hard with a book like this) but it is a wild ride. If you are easily triggered or sensitive, please look at the trigger warnings (there are several lol).
It does end on a big cliffhanger that will make you want to read the second book so I'm reading that ASAP
May 31, 2022
WOW
I almost never write a view review but I had too because this book blew my mind. My heart goes out to Carmee and Ox because they were both dealt a bad hand. Stella ass takes the cake on being Mommy dearest, that woman is evil. Poor Cutti all he wants is to love on his son and Lana is such a pure soul. Baby when Cutti peed on that lady grave 😂 I was through!! Poor June! It’s about to get wild in Part 2 and I can’t wait. Like always Ms. Diamond girl you did that!!
I almost never write a view review but I had too because this book blew my mind. My heart goes out to Carmee and Ox because they were both dealt a bad hand. Stella ass takes the cake on being Mommy dearest, that woman is evil. Poor Cutti all he wants is to love on his son and Lana is such a pure soul. Baby when Cutti peed on that lady grave 😂 I was through!! Poor June! It’s about to get wild in Part 2 and I can’t wait. Like always Ms. Diamond girl you did that!!
June 8, 2022
You will not be disappointed with this book!!
Dymond, I almost didn't go to work trying to read this book smh. My heart goes out to Carmee, I can't believe how Stella treated that baby🤦🏾♀️ I'm really hoping that Ox and Carmee will make it. They balance each other out. And really hope Ox and Cutti will finally bond. All i'ma say is that Dymond wrote the heck out of this book and I can't wait for part 2.
Dymond, I almost didn't go to work trying to read this book smh. My heart goes out to Carmee, I can't believe how Stella treated that baby🤦🏾♀️ I'm really hoping that Ox and Carmee will make it. They balance each other out. And really hope Ox and Cutti will finally bond. All i'ma say is that Dymond wrote the heck out of this book and I can't wait for part 2.
June 14, 2022
Abuse
This was a great story. Any story that had me crying real life funeral tears deserves all five star. The way Stella abused her daughter mentally, physically and emotionally wax horrible. Stella loved drugs more than anything including herself. I hope nothing happens to ox him and Farmer need each other. I wish the next part was out already. I can't wIt. Dymons Taylor I highly recommend your book to everyone.
This was a great story. Any story that had me crying real life funeral tears deserves all five star. The way Stella abused her daughter mentally, physically and emotionally wax horrible. Stella loved drugs more than anything including herself. I hope nothing happens to ox him and Farmer need each other. I wish the next part was out already. I can't wIt. Dymons Taylor I highly recommend your book to everyone.
June 21, 2022
Whew
If this aint the most dysfunctional shit I've read. Stella aint shit. I'm pretty sure her childhood was messed up too. But that don't give you the right to make your children suffer from yo actions. The goal in life is to make sure your children got what you didn't get. Making sure they didn't have to learn all of life's lessons the hard way. But Stella had other shit in mind. This bitch need to croak in the most ungodliest way.
If this aint the most dysfunctional shit I've read. Stella aint shit. I'm pretty sure her childhood was messed up too. But that don't give you the right to make your children suffer from yo actions. The goal in life is to make sure your children got what you didn't get. Making sure they didn't have to learn all of life's lessons the hard way. But Stella had other shit in mind. This bitch need to croak in the most ungodliest way.
June 21, 2022
Excellently,strong plot and compelling characters!
Ox and Carmee are alluring characters, I find myself LITERALLY praying for their success and well-being. If you're looking for a boy meets girl recipe allotments ain't it. This book brings forth every emotion you are capable of holding and the love and compassion you wished that someone had shown you. Read it and you'll need part 2 immediately for closure.
Ox and Carmee are alluring characters, I find myself LITERALLY praying for their success and well-being. If you're looking for a boy meets girl recipe allotments ain't it. This book brings forth every emotion you are capable of holding and the love and compassion you wished that someone had shown you. Read it and you'll need part 2 immediately for closure.
July 8, 2022
Yes, yes, and yes!!!
Carmen is such a beautiful soul in spite of all that she has been through. Diamond in a rough I tell you! Ox may have seemed as hard as they come but he knew better that to let her go. I’m about to get in this second installments bc I really hope the stay and grow together! I hope she doesn’t let Stella corrupt or persuade her. I know that is her mama but dang mannnn!!!!!
Carmen is such a beautiful soul in spite of all that she has been through. Diamond in a rough I tell you! Ox may have seemed as hard as they come but he knew better that to let her go. I’m about to get in this second installments bc I really hope the stay and grow together! I hope she doesn’t let Stella corrupt or persuade her. I know that is her mama but dang mannnn!!!!!
July 16, 2022
Great Read
Stella trying to end her life real fast! She can forget it, Carmee will not testify against Ox under no circumstances. Carmee will never testify on Stella's behalf after the way she treated her. Ox and Carmee are doing well together in spite of how they began their journey. He's teaching her things and they're learning to love together. Awesome read! Can't wait to read part two!
Stella trying to end her life real fast! She can forget it, Carmee will not testify against Ox under no circumstances. Carmee will never testify on Stella's behalf after the way she treated her. Ox and Carmee are doing well together in spite of how they began their journey. He's teaching her things and they're learning to love together. Awesome read! Can't wait to read part two!
October 2, 2022
off to a good start
Well I will say one thing ….. be ready!
This book is somewhat of a tsunami sheesh there’s just sooooooooo much and oh if you have a weak stomach for trauma don’t even bother it’s pretty much a lot to try to take in, especially if you’re unaware things like this really happen I. Real-time. Anywho it’s definitely worth ever minute it took me to read, now off to book2 it’s getting gooooood Chile!
Happy reading
Well I will say one thing ….. be ready!
This book is somewhat of a tsunami sheesh there’s just sooooooooo much and oh if you have a weak stomach for trauma don’t even bother it’s pretty much a lot to try to take in, especially if you’re unaware things like this really happen I. Real-time. Anywho it’s definitely worth ever minute it took me to read, now off to book2 it’s getting gooooood Chile!
Happy reading
December 18, 2022
Eyes 👀 and Mouth wide shut!!
Initially, Stella had me so caught up in my feelings just off general principle and common courtesy as a human being. The way the characters were developed was immaculate and very captivating. Major or minor… sometimes some characters storylines will make you want to skip right by depending on the author’s pen. Dymond snapped on all levels, funny asf too! I love this and now I gotta check out the entire catalog!!!
Initially, Stella had me so caught up in my feelings just off general principle and common courtesy as a human being. The way the characters were developed was immaculate and very captivating. Major or minor… sometimes some characters storylines will make you want to skip right by depending on the author’s pen. Dymond snapped on all levels, funny asf too! I love this and now I gotta check out the entire catalog!!!
June 15, 2024
Wow that was a lot to unpack
Carmee deserves better than her egg donor Stella. June tried to help as much as she could, but Stella was a ruthless so and so. Ox has no feelings toward anyone until he lays eyes e on Carmee. Poor Cutting just wants to give Ox the love of a father & he fights tooth and nail. Stella is walking herself into some dangerous territory. I knew Kathena couldn't be trusted
Carmee deserves better than her egg donor Stella. June tried to help as much as she could, but Stella was a ruthless so and so. Ox has no feelings toward anyone until he lays eyes e on Carmee. Poor Cutting just wants to give Ox the love of a father & he fights tooth and nail. Stella is walking herself into some dangerous territory. I knew Kathena couldn't be trusted
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