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The Strength Of Love
Life is about choices. Jamal Andrews has been the strength his family needs to survive the blows life has thrown their way. Love and dating are not on his agenda. Getting his family back on track is his priority until he meets Deja Pearson. Deja shows Jamal that he’s so busy pouring into others that he has nothing left for himself. Will Deja be the one who pours love, strength, and peace into his life? Together, will they find the Strength of Love?
- GenresContemporary
221 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 26, 2022
140 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
November 13, 2023
Deja x Jamal
This was a really good book. It had lots of love and just enough family drama that made the book so real, so relatable and a lot more enjoyable. Jamal is one of three siblings. He’s educated, he’s loyal, he’s sexy, he’s funny, and he's a Que 🐶👅
He also has baggages…not his own, but his family’s. With an emotionally and mentally unavailable sister, Jamal became the legal guardian to her son, his nephew, while she heals. He also became his sister's keeper in the way he loved and cared for her.
When he met Deja, (Bowlegged) Jamal knew she was going to be his. He pursued her in the most beautiful way and gained her trust and heart. But with the world on his shoulders, like his toxic mother, his irresponsible, yet hilarious little brother Jace and his too grown and too smart for his age nephew, Nash, it was hard for Jamal to navigate his new found love with Deja. But with Deja’s kind and beautiful heart, she became his peace. Their love was beautiful. I loved the dialogue, I love the family dynamic and the laughter in this story.
End felt a bit rushed, but overall, great read!
Because this book was riddled with errors, it honestly deserves a 2.5-3ish stars, but because I enjoyed the storyline, I will award it 4 stars..😑
This was a really good book. It had lots of love and just enough family drama that made the book so real, so relatable and a lot more enjoyable. Jamal is one of three siblings. He’s educated, he’s loyal, he’s sexy, he’s funny, and he's a Que 🐶👅
He also has baggages…not his own, but his family’s. With an emotionally and mentally unavailable sister, Jamal became the legal guardian to her son, his nephew, while she heals. He also became his sister's keeper in the way he loved and cared for her.
When he met Deja, (Bowlegged) Jamal knew she was going to be his. He pursued her in the most beautiful way and gained her trust and heart. But with the world on his shoulders, like his toxic mother, his irresponsible, yet hilarious little brother Jace and his too grown and too smart for his age nephew, Nash, it was hard for Jamal to navigate his new found love with Deja. But with Deja’s kind and beautiful heart, she became his peace. Their love was beautiful. I loved the dialogue, I love the family dynamic and the laughter in this story.
End felt a bit rushed, but overall, great read!
Because this book was riddled with errors, it honestly deserves a 2.5-3ish stars, but because I enjoyed the storyline, I will award it 4 stars..😑
January 3, 2023
I really enjoyed this story….the family dynamic was great…I love Gram & Jace, they were funny as hell….I love the development of Jamal & Deja’s love story…the problem is this story was inundated with errors….errors on top of errors, which really took from the story for me and resulted in the lower rating.
November 21, 2024
Awww this was cute
I truly enjoyed this story. Jamal & Deja were so cute and spicy. It was nice to see their relationship and love grow. The banter and the nicknames were sweet. Honey, Jace was too funny and absolutely loved the back and forth between his grandma and their nephew. The funny moments were good and helped bring some lightness to the heavy parts of the book.
Now the drama especially with that mom is the prime example of someone being upset that they didn’t get the help they needed. Someone who feels they didn’t have the same support her kids give each other. She was so disgusting and towards the end i like how the daughter handled coming back in the family. Also the author bringing attention to depression was good. Jamal played his part and really carried his family.
A story about family, love and growth.
I truly enjoyed this story. Jamal & Deja were so cute and spicy. It was nice to see their relationship and love grow. The banter and the nicknames were sweet. Honey, Jace was too funny and absolutely loved the back and forth between his grandma and their nephew. The funny moments were good and helped bring some lightness to the heavy parts of the book.
Now the drama especially with that mom is the prime example of someone being upset that they didn’t get the help they needed. Someone who feels they didn’t have the same support her kids give each other. She was so disgusting and towards the end i like how the daughter handled coming back in the family. Also the author bringing attention to depression was good. Jamal played his part and really carried his family.
A story about family, love and growth.
July 19, 2022
It's All.Good!!
This wasnot.only a really fun,sexy and sweet story, it was just refreshing to see a couple be real and up front with what they wanted. The writer doesn't waste time with unnecessary drama or just plain stupid things. This was good writing and storytelling, there are also some laugh out loud moments, that you are just going to love.This was and is a very good choice for book club.I.hope to.see Jace and Camille in a story and JarrIca also. Oh and I think we have some unfinished business with best friends.
This wasnot.only a really fun,sexy and sweet story, it was just refreshing to see a couple be real and up front with what they wanted. The writer doesn't waste time with unnecessary drama or just plain stupid things. This was good writing and storytelling, there are also some laugh out loud moments, that you are just going to love.This was and is a very good choice for book club.I.hope to.see Jace and Camille in a story and JarrIca also. Oh and I think we have some unfinished business with best friends.
August 6, 2022
Family dynamics front and center
The title of this book appropriately fits the story. There was so much family dynamics and it began with a tragic loss that caused huge impacts. No one was untouched or unaffected. In the midst of the family dynamics was a blossoming love pairing of Jamal and Deja (Bowlegged Jamal and Dimples). Their story was beautiful. I enjoy this read and look forward to reading more from this author.
The title of this book appropriately fits the story. There was so much family dynamics and it began with a tragic loss that caused huge impacts. No one was untouched or unaffected. In the midst of the family dynamics was a blossoming love pairing of Jamal and Deja (Bowlegged Jamal and Dimples). Their story was beautiful. I enjoy this read and look forward to reading more from this author.
June 30, 2022
A nice book abt family issues that get resolved
I finished! Let me just say that I loved the family dynamic embedded within these pages. There were parts that I laughed out loud, shook my head, felt pain and joy. The friendly insults included lines that I plan on using on people so be ready. This book was so refreshing and I can’t wait to read more from this author.
I finished! Let me just say that I loved the family dynamic embedded within these pages. There were parts that I laughed out loud, shook my head, felt pain and joy. The friendly insults included lines that I plan on using on people so be ready. This book was so refreshing and I can’t wait to read more from this author.
July 1, 2022
Great Story!
I loved Jamal and his family dynamics and how he was managing to keep his family intact after suffering thru a tragedy. Deja definitely worked my nerves with her reckless mouth! But the love and attraction was always there!
Great Job with the storyline and plots. I can see a book 2 coming out of this!👍🏾
I loved Jamal and his family dynamics and how he was managing to keep his family intact after suffering thru a tragedy. Deja definitely worked my nerves with her reckless mouth! But the love and attraction was always there!
Great Job with the storyline and plots. I can see a book 2 coming out of this!👍🏾
June 30, 2022
I absolutely loved this book. From the family dynamic to the friendships, it was all really relatable. Jamal was my kind of guy. A standup family man that was willing to go the extra mile for his family.
Really really enjoyed this debut novel from Joslyn Marks. Excited for what's to come.
Really really enjoyed this debut novel from Joslyn Marks. Excited for what's to come.
August 11, 2022
Great read…
This was good, the ending felt a little rushed and like something was missing but that doesn’t take away that this book so the dynamics of a family working out obstacles that hit your family. Nash stole the whole show and Jace and his simple self was next. I would have liked to see what happened to Jamals friend Kevin, also a little about Uncle Slim. Their mom was a different story and I am glad his sister got the help she needed and was about to say her piece to her family!
Bow legged Jamal and Dimples Deja 🤣🤣🤣 were so cute together, and boy did put her foot in her mouth a lot and Jamal was a little uptight with some things. I would like to know how Kevin and the ex-friend got contacted and how that transpired because after he Resturant interaction in the beginning we didn’t hear about her anymore!
This was my first book from this author and I really enjoyed this introduction!
This was good, the ending felt a little rushed and like something was missing but that doesn’t take away that this book so the dynamics of a family working out obstacles that hit your family. Nash stole the whole show and Jace and his simple self was next. I would have liked to see what happened to Jamals friend Kevin, also a little about Uncle Slim. Their mom was a different story and I am glad his sister got the help she needed and was about to say her piece to her family!
Bow legged Jamal and Dimples Deja 🤣🤣🤣 were so cute together, and boy did put her foot in her mouth a lot and Jamal was a little uptight with some things. I would like to know how Kevin and the ex-friend got contacted and how that transpired because after he Resturant interaction in the beginning we didn’t hear about her anymore!
This was my first book from this author and I really enjoyed this introduction!
November 6, 2022
Good read!
This was the first book that I’ve read by Joslyn Marks and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I’m looking forward to reading more books from her. The main characters in this book were Jamal and Deja. They both came into their relationship with plenty of baggage from their past, but was able to conquer fears that they each had and was able to embark on a lovely relationship. Jamal felt like he had to take care of every problem that his family had and Deja was there to take care of him. I absolutely loved Jace and Nash. The book also focused on grief, depression and guilt. Grief is not on a timeline, but Jerrica couldn’t get over her loss, so she took steps to better herself. Their family’s support help her to began her healing. The book was well written, flowed well and kept my attention.
This was the first book that I’ve read by Joslyn Marks and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I’m looking forward to reading more books from her. The main characters in this book were Jamal and Deja. They both came into their relationship with plenty of baggage from their past, but was able to conquer fears that they each had and was able to embark on a lovely relationship. Jamal felt like he had to take care of every problem that his family had and Deja was there to take care of him. I absolutely loved Jace and Nash. The book also focused on grief, depression and guilt. Grief is not on a timeline, but Jerrica couldn’t get over her loss, so she took steps to better herself. Their family’s support help her to began her healing. The book was well written, flowed well and kept my attention.
December 3, 2023
I liked it
I liked the story of Jamal and Deja how they met and came together and fell in love. That was actually kinda perfect. The only thing that would have made this story better was if the story explained both of their families dynamic a little better. In the beginning the author mentioned Deja wanting to lay eyes on her parents, but later in the stony made it seen as if she didn’t deal with them because they were too religious. And Jamal’s momma, I don’t even know what to make of her and her attitude or behavior and there was really no clarity of why she was like that or why his dad allowed it. They kinda just brush it under the rug. Overall the story was nice just a few unanswered questions.
I liked the story of Jamal and Deja how they met and came together and fell in love. That was actually kinda perfect. The only thing that would have made this story better was if the story explained both of their families dynamic a little better. In the beginning the author mentioned Deja wanting to lay eyes on her parents, but later in the stony made it seen as if she didn’t deal with them because they were too religious. And Jamal’s momma, I don’t even know what to make of her and her attitude or behavior and there was really no clarity of why she was like that or why his dad allowed it. They kinda just brush it under the rug. Overall the story was nice just a few unanswered questions.
July 10, 2022
A good story
This was a good debut, but my goodness. There was a lot of pointless words in this book. There was a lot that irritated me but nothing detracted me from finishing. Keep working your craft and congratulations!
Jamal was instantly drawn to Deja and their chemistry was there. The story sometimes got lost in the tangled web of all the other characters. There was just a lot going on. Some of the troubles/scenes could've gotten a gloss over instead of 5 of 6 pages. We get it.
This was a good debut, but my goodness. There was a lot of pointless words in this book. There was a lot that irritated me but nothing detracted me from finishing. Keep working your craft and congratulations!
Jamal was instantly drawn to Deja and their chemistry was there. The story sometimes got lost in the tangled web of all the other characters. There was just a lot going on. Some of the troubles/scenes could've gotten a gloss over instead of 5 of 6 pages. We get it.
July 11, 2022
Great debut!
Jamal was the depiction of the glue that holds the family together. He loves on his family but also firmly gets them together when need be. All in all it was a cute love story of a woman being the strength for a man that was trying to hold up his family. There were a few side plots that were given recognition in the book but not developed, and I wish they were to get a better understanding of the characters were and how it transitions into or affects who they are. Nonetheless, it was still a good debut.
Jamal was the depiction of the glue that holds the family together. He loves on his family but also firmly gets them together when need be. All in all it was a cute love story of a woman being the strength for a man that was trying to hold up his family. There were a few side plots that were given recognition in the book but not developed, and I wish they were to get a better understanding of the characters were and how it transitions into or affects who they are. Nonetheless, it was still a good debut.
July 16, 2022
job well done
This was an awesome read Jamal and Deja had a-lot thrown at them in the beginning but they worked through it especially her slick mouth…..now jerrica has every right to grieve but her mother wanted to control the process and be manipulative so yes she had every right to be mad and unapologetic her mother needed to a 5 seats and a pill……..now Nash and Jace those two were comedic relief loving Camille and jace I know there is a story there and can’t wait for it…..I need some closure on Kevin and Stacey both were jealous haters
This was an awesome read Jamal and Deja had a-lot thrown at them in the beginning but they worked through it especially her slick mouth…..now jerrica has every right to grieve but her mother wanted to control the process and be manipulative so yes she had every right to be mad and unapologetic her mother needed to a 5 seats and a pill……..now Nash and Jace those two were comedic relief loving Camille and jace I know there is a story there and can’t wait for it…..I need some closure on Kevin and Stacey both were jealous haters
July 21, 2022
Beautiful Story of Love
This story of finding love in healing for family and new love in relationship was truly a joy! Whoever said a child can't teach them anything, has never met 10 year old Nash. Lol Losing a love makes room for something new, but it definitely makes you appreciate the journey and support when it's authentic. Jamal was definitely strong for everybody. Great debut Jos! 🎉🎊
This story of finding love in healing for family and new love in relationship was truly a joy! Whoever said a child can't teach them anything, has never met 10 year old Nash. Lol Losing a love makes room for something new, but it definitely makes you appreciate the journey and support when it's authentic. Jamal was definitely strong for everybody. Great debut Jos! 🎉🎊
July 24, 2022
Lovely read!
This book has all of the elements I enjoy when I am in the mood for something light. Love,laughter, drama, conflict, things that make you reflect and can relate to. There were a few cliffhangers that I am hoping will be addressed in a book 2, like how did the Uncle handle Mark? What happens with the Jade and Camille not so secret love affair? Has Jerrica met someone? Can't wait for the follow-up😃
This book has all of the elements I enjoy when I am in the mood for something light. Love,laughter, drama, conflict, things that make you reflect and can relate to. There were a few cliffhangers that I am hoping will be addressed in a book 2, like how did the Uncle handle Mark? What happens with the Jade and Camille not so secret love affair? Has Jerrica met someone? Can't wait for the follow-up😃
July 17, 2022
Love really can conquer all
From cover to cover I loved every bit of it. From Jamal being a man’s man to Deja knowing when to lead and follow. The themes of love, forgiveness and family were handled with great care. Great job Joslyn. I know this is the first of many more and I look forward to supporting.
From cover to cover I loved every bit of it. From Jamal being a man’s man to Deja knowing when to lead and follow. The themes of love, forgiveness and family were handled with great care. Great job Joslyn. I know this is the first of many more and I look forward to supporting.
July 19, 2022
Enjoyed It So Much
First time reading from this author, and definitely won’t be the last time. I loved the storyline, characters, and the topics that’s were discussed during the story was handled so well. It was realistic and so authentic. Great love story. I’m hoping to read more about Jace.
First time reading from this author, and definitely won’t be the last time. I loved the storyline, characters, and the topics that’s were discussed during the story was handled so well. It was realistic and so authentic. Great love story. I’m hoping to read more about Jace.
July 27, 2022
Entertaining Debut. Jamal was a dream and the family dynamics relatable. Overall, I enjoyed the story but it left me with a lot of unanswered questions and there was no indication that there would be a sequel to continue the story. More care should have been taken with editing, extra words in sentences and misspellings.
August 16, 2022
enjoyable
This is my first read by this author and I enjoyed it. The story was was relatable and real life. Had me realizing I’m the Jamal to my siblings 🥲. I hope we get to see more of Jace and Camille and Jerrica as she continues on her healing journey. I would’ve liked to know what happened to Kevin as well.
This is my first read by this author and I enjoyed it. The story was was relatable and real life. Had me realizing I’m the Jamal to my siblings 🥲. I hope we get to see more of Jace and Camille and Jerrica as she continues on her healing journey. I would’ve liked to know what happened to Kevin as well.
October 26, 2022
An interesting read
Deja and Jamal definitely had a few odds stacked against them as they were getting to know each other. A few things that struck me as odd were Jamal’s mom and her attitude towards Jerrica and how vested Kevin was in exposing Deja to Jamal. Overall, this was a good read although the author did tend to retell several aspects of the story multiple times.
Deja and Jamal definitely had a few odds stacked against them as they were getting to know each other. A few things that struck me as odd were Jamal’s mom and her attitude towards Jerrica and how vested Kevin was in exposing Deja to Jamal. Overall, this was a good read although the author did tend to retell several aspects of the story multiple times.
April 5, 2024
Refreshing, entertaining w/ just enough spice❣️
The balance of all things that pull me in were definitely present in this book! I laughed at a few scenes, became angry at others and even related to a few lolol The sibling bonds, parenting moments & challenges with elders were so honest in good as well as challenging times. I’m enjoying their world & excited to read book 2!
The balance of all things that pull me in were definitely present in this book! I laughed at a few scenes, became angry at others and even related to a few lolol The sibling bonds, parenting moments & challenges with elders were so honest in good as well as challenging times. I’m enjoying their world & excited to read book 2!
June 3, 2024
The strength of love heals
I absolutely loved everything about this book. I just wanted to point out I did not like Stacy the friend, I loved Camille the other friend because she always had the FMC’s back!! Now let’s talk about Jamal I loved everything about him!!! Just read the book you will not be disappointed.
I absolutely loved everything about this book. I just wanted to point out I did not like Stacy the friend, I loved Camille the other friend because she always had the FMC’s back!! Now let’s talk about Jamal I loved everything about him!!! Just read the book you will not be disappointed.
July 2, 2022
Awesome read
A very well put together book that hit all the great points of a loving friendship and relationship. Mal made her see him in a different way with the love he has for his family.
A very well put together book that hit all the great points of a loving friendship and relationship. Mal made her see him in a different way with the love he has for his family.
July 5, 2022
Awesome Debut!!
The Strength of Love was a great story! Jamal’s strength oozed off of the pages. His love for his family and Camille is unmatched. Can’t wait to read the stories of some of other memorable characters in the book!
The Strength of Love was a great story! Jamal’s strength oozed off of the pages. His love for his family and Camille is unmatched. Can’t wait to read the stories of some of other memorable characters in the book!
July 13, 2022
Ok Jos....I see you
Wow....first book huh? This was a really good read. I wanted more though... Like the whole deal with Kevin and even that ole hating was fake friend of Deja. I'm hoping to get more books Jos...but bravo Chic!
Wow....first book huh? This was a really good read. I wanted more though... Like the whole deal with Kevin and even that ole hating was fake friend of Deja. I'm hoping to get more books Jos...but bravo Chic!
July 14, 2022
The Strength of Love
I throughly enjoyed this book. I’m glad Jerrica received the help she needed. I like this book because family is extremely important to me also. The fact Deja was able to be his peace and support him meant a lot.
I throughly enjoyed this book. I’m glad Jerrica received the help she needed. I like this book because family is extremely important to me also. The fact Deja was able to be his peace and support him meant a lot.
July 21, 2022
A family affair
I enjoyed reading this story about Deja and Jamal. This story involves family, attraction, support and drama. I enjoyed the funny scenes as well as the love scenes. It was a great read.
I enjoyed reading this story about Deja and Jamal. This story involves family, attraction, support and drama. I enjoyed the funny scenes as well as the love scenes. It was a great read.
July 23, 2022
a true romance filled with mystery
It was an enjoyable read, the storyline was intriguing and captivating. I was always a sucker for a happy ending and this did not disappoint. True love prevailed and fate stepped in and intervened to allow these two souls to reunite.
It was an enjoyable read, the storyline was intriguing and captivating. I was always a sucker for a happy ending and this did not disappoint. True love prevailed and fate stepped in and intervened to allow these two souls to reunite.
October 16, 2022
Enjoyed
I liked this story. Jamal and Deja had great chemistry from the start but Deja kept putting her foot in her mouth. Jamal was very family oriented and I loved that about him.
Jace and Nash provided some good entertainment.
I would recommend this book.
I liked this story. Jamal and Deja had great chemistry from the start but Deja kept putting her foot in her mouth. Jamal was very family oriented and I loved that about him.
Jace and Nash provided some good entertainment.
I would recommend this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews