Dexter Dent, Junior, affectionately called DJ by everyone who knows him, has been ready to abandon the single life for a while now. His adolescent and entire adult life has always been about making sure his mother and brother were taken care of. Now that his mom is happy and living her life with his new stepfather, Sheldon Berotte, he’s ready to find that same happiness that only a woman can bring and that all his bonus siblings seem to have already found. That process proves to be tedious trying to find a diamond in a cesspool, but DJ is up for the challenge.
Single mother of two and divorcée, Shavozz Simpson, is still reeling from the effects of her now defunct marriage. She constantly blames herself for choosing the wrong man and not listening to warnings from those close to her. The next man will have to suffer through rigorous testing, because she refuses to be stubbornly naïve and fall for another man like her ex-husband. It doesn’t help that her friend instigates chaos by bringing drama and allegations to her doorstep at every turn.
DJ is smitten the day he lays eyes on Shavozz, but he realizes the conquest isn’t going to be as easy as he originally perceived. Shavozz knows in her heart that DJ is the man for her after a short while and that possibility causes fear to infiltrate her mind, sabotaging the mere idea that a man could care so much for her. Can she release her past failures in relationships so she can be free to love DJ, or will she allow them to cripple even the possibility? Will DJ’s love be able to weather the storm in hopes of seeing a rainbow?
Starting with poetry, writing has always been a constant in Monica's life. The interest began in her teenage years, being in love for the first time. Her love for writing has only progressed. Song lyrics and poetry led to short stories, then one day in her down time, a short story became a 56k word novel. It has been non-stop since then. Being a wife and mother, has only added to the joys of Monica's life. Attaining a BS in Sociology, helping her better understand people and their behaviors, has only helped her become a better writer, understanding characters and their complex personalities. Romance of all types has been her passion, and she plans to continue honing her skills in that genre.
This family, this family!!! We are 7 books in and well acquainted with this clan. I feel like part of the family at this point. We’ve experienced the HEA’s for the Berotte brothers and sister and now the Dent men are up next. DJ and Chad are responsible for this amazing blended family and it’s because of them that Sheldon and Anissa got together to begin with! DJ and Chad are ace boon coons so you already know what type of time they were on back in the day. Much like Chad, DJ is now in his 30’s and looking to to put his heaux days behind him. It’s been a while since he’s had an intimate relationship and he’s looking for a life long love to build with. After catching his eye at the neighborhood food spot, he knew that Shavozz was his endgame. The problem is, she’s fresh out of a divorce with two boys that are her number one priority. Shavozz is looking to take this time to rediscover herself and love is the LAST thing on her mind. As if her beauty isn’t enough, DJ is captivated by the similarities between Shavozz’ story and his mother and for that he want nothing more than to be everything for her. We Stan a man that takes pride in providing for his woman but I mean can we expect anything less with Zaddy Berotte as an example 🥰🥰
Shavozz didn’t stress me out as much as I assumed she would. In fact it was DJ that stressed me out more. He was a bit overbearing with his love. He meant well and I know his motives were pure but like someone told him in the book (can’t remember who) 6 months is not enough time to prove consistency and after the number her ex-headache did on her, Shavozz was well within her rights to remain guarded and protect her heart.
These Berotte/ Dent men are aggressive with their love. They meet one day and be ready to marry the next 🤧
I knew Talisha was a dirty bxtch!!! I smelled the disloyalty from day 1! With her uglass *in my DJ voice* 🤣🤣
Y’all know I love books with kids (yes I plan to say this on every review) so Mariena with her barking is always the absolute cutest! I also loved Tray! He was everything and I expect to see him in a 10 years later story Monica *hint hint*
This stripper is giving Jamal a run for his money and I can’t wait for this story. The mystery behind this woman has me highly intrigued!
I know there was warning about the back and forth between DJ and Shavozz but I wasn’t prepared for this still! Shavozz was going through it with trust issues from her ex husband and DJ only wanted to reassure her he was always the best option. My girl Shavozz kept trying to fight it but with the risk of losing it all I’m glad she came around in the end! I love how some of the brothers are Que dawgs and others Greek organizations! Makes the read more fun and again with this book highlighting the secondary characters it has me ready to continue on to book 8 where I know Jamel is about to cause hell lol. Also intrigued by Rondo and if he will be in book 8? Hmm this was great and want to finish but it is one of my favorites of this series for sure!
I see you DJ! Known as Chad's best friend, a fellow bruh and his mother's protector; we got to see DJ the man. I enjoyed learning of how he and Chad met, and the brotherhood they build over the years. Both, growing up with the absence of a parent, they understood the other more than most. DJ, was a natural protector, as he was forced to do so with his mother. So, he was beyond ready to find love and put his protective nature to work, on his own woman. Seeing Shavozz while out grabbing food, stopped him in his tracks! He had to talk to her, get to know her, as she was that beautiful. Shavozz, jaded after just going through a divorce, is not interested in men period! However, DJ was smooth, and handsome, so she allowed him to put his number in her phone. They got along well, and were feeling each other. But, Shavozz was still keeping DJ at arm's length, due to her past trauma with men. NOW, Shavozz must have taken a chapter out of Brittney's book, with that stubborn ish! Cause sis, really? Why even call this man and get to know him, if you still in yo feelings, and not ready? Did he not tell you to call him when you were ready? But, you forge ahead and allow this man to form feelings for you, then get an attitude when he tells you what he wants! Ughhh..... 😠 I thought DJ was as patient as he could be, while allowing Shavozz to navigate her new life. That damn Talisha was trash! How is that you girl, and you do some ish like that? Ole hatin' ass! I wonder what Ali did to handle that situation? Speaking of Ali, he is really peaking my interest now. Like what is up with him, and all that he is into? Cannot wait for his story! Jamel! Really? A stripper? He is going to have his world rocked! He is already so enamored with this woman, whom he has never even spoken to! Who is she? Oh, and this Yolanda thing! Bruh really? 😂 She is going to be a problem, and then you have your mother to deal with! Maaan, his story is going to be epic! When Shavozz finally got out of her own way, she could see how good of a man DJ is, and allowed him all the way in! The Berotte family and all that are associated with them are the ish! Great job Miss Monica! 👍👍👍
First off, I LOVE this family and the extensions of it. I loved DJs story. He was so sweet and patient. I loved the mentions of Louisiana!! I’m looking forward to the next book!
In this book we dive more into DJ, Annisa's (Mr. Berotte's wife) oldest son. I liked DJ because at this stage in his life he was laid-back and chill. I mean besides him being a loud as$ Que Dawg. He worked and doted on his woman. He dedicated most of his energy into showing Shavozz that he was the man for her and her boys. After he got out of his feelings he stayed the course and made sure he showed up for her and the boy's whenever they needed him to.
Shavozz was a newly divorced single mom that seemed to be out of her element when it came to a real man. She was just waiting for the other shoe to drop, because all of the men in her life before DJ were lying cheaters. Unfortunately she let those past situations spill into her relationship with DJ. Once she made the decision to trust him, things progressed quickly.
Her boy's especially Trayveon quickly recognized DJ's genuineness. They had a sweet little relationship and I would have preferred reading about the time they spent together, like experiencing alongside them instead of being told about the experiences.
Oh and I forgot to mention they were nasty together lol. Talking bout they were with the ish.
That said this was another solid book about the Berotte clan. She could take them to the next level by focusing more on the main couple and allowing us to experience them a little deeper. I am definitely intrigued to learn more about Jermel.
Dexter and Shavozz 👌🏾! I must say though, Shavozz wore me low down to the ground in the beginning! I’m glad that at the end she came around though. I loved how the Berotte family is so welcoming and loving, the way the accepted Shavozz, Trayveon, & Dalen was beautiful. Still my favorite family ❤️
Shavozz, huntiiiii you know you got on my last nerve!!! 😂 That man was ready, willing and able from day one. I loved ❤️ that he knew what he wanted from the beginning. DJ was definitely bae, although the whole strip club scene erkked me. I knew Shalisha was a trashy 🗑 a** hater😡. Elvis, REALLY??!!😡 I won’t even give you any time!!!
At any rate, it’s always a pleasure to spend time with the Berotte’s and DJ was no different!!! Great job at crafting an amazing series that is realist (for the most part😂😂) and relatable. 👍🏽👍🏽👏🏽👏🏽
You know I just knew Dexter and Shavozz would both get on my nerves but actually I understood both sides. Like you're used to reading about the woman wanting to move at a faster pace, not always the men. Dexter knew from jump that Shavozz was the woman for him, but since she was so hurt from a no good man from her past it made her scared to give into real love. I am glad that her brother told her the truth about not being able to see real love if you never saw it growing up. That is something that a lot of women and men struggle with (me in general). I just kept screaming Shavozz girl get out your way, I don't like like DJ was pressuring her he was just trying to make his intentions clear and I loved it I wish more men would do the same and avoid woman doing the guessing game. Now that ex-husband i feel like he got off easy and should have gotten more lol. Now that friend Talisha or as DL callshe uglass, I really wanted to feel bad about Ali playing with her but the way she came for DL after he sent her a nice gesture I was like “yeah you deserved it” lol especially after you find out about how she helped the fboy i was like IKYL.. Monica Walters I just love all these books in this series. It's like it gets better and better with each book.The family dynamics are amazing and you never want the book to end but knowing that another one is coming makes the wait worth it.
I really enjoyed this story. There was no denying the chemistry between DJ and Shavozz especially the sexual chemistry. DJ was determined to show Shavozz he was the man for her and would provide and protect her at all cost. Shavozz was a little annoying at times listening to her no good friend and pushing DJ away. Glad she finally came to her senses and gave DJ a chance. I loved his interaction with her sons and how easily they accepted him. And as always those Sunday dinners with the Berotte clan are worth it in every book of this series. You never know what encouraging words of wisdom Sheldon is going to give or what new addition will be arriving soon. Great job by the author for keeping readers invested in this series. Looking forward to Jamel's story.
Don't Fight the Feeling (The Berotte Family Book 7)
This is Shavozz Simpson and Dexter (DJ) Dent Jr's story which leads to their HEA. Not without some struggles regarding trust and accepting real loving relationships. That's what you get while becoming a part of the Berotte family. Author Monica Walters, keep writing great stories that are relatable in life. And we'll keep reading.
Love isn’t always easy. It’s worth fighting for when you’re with the one you love. I thought Shavozz was going to give me a run for my money if she didn’t get with my boy immediately😩🤣. I can see why she was on the fence when getting into a new relationship. Love takes time. If it’s meant to be it will be. I’m so grateful they both put up a fight. Love always win. ❤️
DJ reminded me of Isaiah throughout this series, but when he called ole girl ugly I saw why he and crazy Chad were so tight. He had no shame. I loved Tray's first meeting with DJ and hope to see him grow. I got where Shavozz was coming from but she was about to work a nerve. Its good to see when she makes up her mind, she is in and she ain't got no problem handling her ish, aka ole girl. 😆😋😚
He my favorite so far! The chemistry and caring and sexy and just a great vibe, It just keep getting better & better!! I'm glad Sha opened herself to love!!
Yasssss Dj! It took a special someone to deal with Vozz! Because baby she was stressful! A person past can keep them from having a happy future. But when you love someone you fight for what you love. Outstanding love
This book was everything! Shavozz was standing in her own way. She started to get on my nerves but she finally came to her senses. DJ was something else! I didn’t know he was a freak like that.
Now we get to the love story of DJ... He is one of the addition Berotte kids... Yet he is so much like the rest of the Berotte's... He is a good man but his journey to find the right love and keep her was a journey... DJ was single for so long... He just could not find the right woman... Then when he found her he had no idea how much work he would have to put in to keep her... He thought that just because they were together all the time that it was established that they were dating... Only to realize that he is dating a grown woman and he needed to say what he wanted and could not just assume... Shavozz was a beautiful divorced mother of 2 boys... She is an amazing mother and doing all she can to take care of these kids by herself because their father Elvis was a lost cause... She meets a great man but does not know how to put her past relationship behind her... While DJ is doing all that he can to show her that he is the man for her... She keeps fighting him as to why things wont work... It doesn't help that she has a good friend that is always in her ear as well... Always hatin... Vozz is not really giving DJ the full chance that he has proven time and time again that he deserves... But when a scary moment happens with Shavozz with one of her sons... Things start to quickly change... DJ really starts to show up and show out on the type of man that he is... Shavozz wants to put her guard down but with everything going on right now with her ex and her finances being stretched super thin... She just can't... Because to her all men are like her ex... Shavozz sons both take a quick liking to DJ and now Elvis is kind of in his feelings... We thought he was no good before... Wait until you see what he is doing now... But here comes DJ to the rescue... But not before Shavozz pushes him away for the last time... But since DJ is a man of his word... He still makes sure that Shavozz and her boys are good... Shavozz kept trying to hold it all together by herself since she pushed DJ away for the last time... But with time moving on she is slowly realizing how important DJ has become in her and her kids lives... She felt so overwhelmed and did not know what to do... So she turns to her brother and he puts her in her place... Now Vozz has to figure out a way to get DJ back hoping it is not to late... DJ has been in his feelings since losing Vozz but he just keeps pushing and trying to figure out life... But the moment that Vozz calls... DJ is right there making sure her and the boys are good... Only for Elvis to do this... Now it is a good thing that Vozz came to her senses because there is no telling how she would have been able to handle all of this on her own... But wait there is a little twist on how Elvis was able to pull this off... Shavozz older son is super smart and he was able to make sure that him and his little brother were good and that they were able to make it home safely... With all that went on and how DJ and his family stepped up to the plate when Vozz and her boys needed them most... Really solidified what Vozz already knew but kept fighting... She needed DJ in her life and she deserved the love that he was giving her and her boys... It was a lot of work to get them to where they needed to be... But to DJ Shavozz and her boys were worth every bit of it... Shavozz was finally able to see what was good for her and what snakes that she had surrounded herself with... Now she can really be happy with her man and her kids... They may still have some things to work on but together they will be okay... Now onto Jamel and see if he can find love with the woman that has him obsessed...
I didn’t love this as much as the other books in the series, but this author writes eminently readable books so I was of course hooked and won’t rate it poorly. My main issue was that unlike the rest of the Berotte books, where I cared about the characters, here it was a struggle. DJ was fine if a little immature for someone who talked a lot about his maturity from a young age. He loved Shavozz in a very specific way and perhaps pushed her too hard to be a version of herself she wasn’t yet ready to be and he wasn’t particularly constructive in suggesting how she could heal. I never felt like they were ready for the pace of their relationship and even in the end, I had my doubts. But it was doubtless that he was gone for Shavozz and that he loved her hard. As for Shavozz, she was kind of difficult- she said didn’t want a relationship but she made demands that made it seem she wanted a serious relationship. So, it was very much like 💩 or get off the pot, and stop wasting your time and DJ’s. In the end, it seemed that she was only there for the spice and to be looked after. I just didn’t buy their relationship.
What made this better was the secondary relationships. Especially catching up with the main Berottes from previous books. I was ready to knock Shy upside the head for putting Brittany through the emotional wringer and it says a lot that I was more interested in that side drama than I was on the main story. And I think to an extent, it’s that humanity that was missing from this book. Yes things were happening around DJ and Vozz but I don’t feel like we really got to know them well as people. What’s DJ’s dream- he is burned out by his job but what would he rather be doing? As for Vozz, what does she really want, what’s her goal, what makes her happy? The characters weren’t really interested to me and it felt like despite their drama, we only got to know them on the most surfacey level.
I still plan to continue with this series because I’m invested now but I’m not a huge fan of the upcoming honorary Berotte’s although I’m intrigued by what Ali’s and Seneca’s love stories will be. As for Jamel, Arrow, Rondo etc, I really am not sold on them. There doesn’t seem much to them apart from running through women and kind of being in violence… I don’t feel like there’s been as much story to them as there was for earlier Berottes but maybe that will change in their books. I’ll have to read them to find out.
I have honestly been DYING to read their story since Chad book. Especially after DJ THOUGHT Shavozz was his woman 😂 & she let it be known you have to state your intentions with me.
DJ is used to taking care of those he care about. He did it with his mom when his dad left them & he did it with his brother by being the father figure. He meets Shavozz at his local eatery & the chemistry was flying & flowing. From that moment he was smitten and he was not hiding that shit. DJ was coming on a little too strong for my liking, but then he again he's watching all his siblings find love and he's ready for the love train.
Shavozz is fresh off a divorce from a negro with a Napoleon complex. She's not ready for love, at least that's what she thinks. She doesn't trust herself or her heart to make certain decisions because every time she opens herself up, here a nxgga go playing patty-cake in her face. Shavozz is just trying to go with the flow with DJ, but his knowledge that he wants more has her feet frozen.
I was too happy about her bulldog ass friend Talisha. & let me not even get started on her weak ass ex husband 🙄 I loved getting a taste more of Ali 🤤 I can't wait to get to his book & find out more about him.
A Growing Family Equals a Larger Accommodating Home Per Sheldon! 🥰
And, oh, how this Berotte Family is growing!! DJ and Shavozz were truly something!! “Vozz” was annoying but rightly so! She endured heartbreak, a trifling ex-husband and an even more trifling “best friend!” Both Eric and Talisha deserved their beat downs!!
It was good seeing DJ hang in there, get the right advice and stick to it! He took a readymade family and made them all his family!! YES to DJ!!
It’s always good to catch up with everyone in this expanding Berotte Family! So happy for Brittany and Shy! Glad that Lexi and Chad finally got it together!! Not sure what to say about Yolanda! I’m sure Nissa will nip it in the bud, one way or another when she becomes enlightened!!
Now I’m ready to see what’s up with Jamel and his “situation!” I am thoroughly enjoying this family and all of their shenanigans plus the unconditional love and support they have for each other!! I highly recommend you read this entire series, starting from the beginning so that you don’t miss out!! Monica, you are doing amazing work with this series! Kudos to You!! 💜
Jumping into the Honorary Berotte sibs. This was a great start to their story. I can for sure say that I enjoyed Mr. Dexter Dent Jr. He literally was perfection, he was all in for Shavozz and did his best to show her that. He was the Perfect gentleman who caught and held my heart from the first chapter. Shavozz was getting on my nerves with the indecisiveness but I was understanding as to her not trusting her judgement after being with no good N*ggas who weren't sh*t. When she finally got her act together I was happy for her. I was also happy when she cut that ugly fake a** friend off.
I always love the blended family dynamic Shavozz oldest son was a sweet heart, loved his moments and the dive into secondary characters like Rondo and Ali, can't wait for their stories. PS: i WAS HAPPY AF FOR BRIT AND SHY Also i will never tire over the references to black greek organizations. if I ever meet a man he might have to be affiliatied and it's all Monica Walters fault...haha jk But Ms. Monica Walters you just never miss. I fall in love with your writing, Characters, and series wholeheartedly every time. Keep it up, you got a forever fan and hype woman in me!!
Story was okay. The meet cute at the eatery was a great way to start the book. I really liked Shavozz's son, Trayveon. He was respectful, intelligent, and he looked out for both his mother and brother. No teenager theatrics, which was nice. DJ's willingness to be all in with Shavozz and her children (paying her bills, offering to keep her youngest son, and moving them into his house) was a bit over the top and unrealistic. Her friend, Talisha, wasn't well fleshed out. I still don't understand her motivation to betray Shavozz. And her ex, Elvis, taking the kids (one being 17 years old) made less than no sense. Just like the past few books in this series, I was grateful to be able to learn more and see the growth of the other Berotte family members. The book is okay. Just like the other books, less sex scenes and more character and story development would be great.
Mrs. Walter’s! Girl! Shavonne was working my nerves something terrible lol. Like what’s not to like about DJ? He’s fine, employed, nasty, communicative, funny and knows what he wants. Like where is he in real life and I need that neck roll included?! I know this book wasn’t focused on Shy and his wife but I’m glad Shy calmed down; Mr Sheldon always gets them together. Back to DJ and Vonne, I’m glad Tray had more sense than his daddy and looked out for his brother and mother, awesome young man. Elvis, Smdh even his name was lame and it was perfect for him. I can’t stand a lying punk. I was so happy that Vonne dealt with Talisha accordingly because baby she was no type of true friend! Those sex scenes always fire. You know I’m ready for the next book already, so come through! Love these Berottes and their friends.
Can I have me a DJ? Shavozz loved her some DJ, especially the things he did to her body, she was just scared from her previous relationship and didn't want to move too fast. She also had a hater named Talisha in her ear all the time. DJ was persistent until her got tired. Then he backed off. Shavozz realized she loved him as much as he loved her and she definitely couldn't function without the sex! Elvis was as trifling as they came. Kidnapping your kids because your ex moved on, but you don't want to care for them financially. He and Talisha are trash! Shavozz realized that she and DJ shared the same feelings and her sons respected him. Once again, another happy and soon to be married couple! Monica, you are amazing with the sex scenes! That remote! Awesome job!
DJ was that dude! He was grown grown and ready for the wife and the kids. He played no games and would put you in block if he felt you were playing with him. Vozz needed to search her mind, heart - hell a full body search to help her figure out that she was tripping and needed that good man! She had some trauma in relationships in her past and not so recent present as well as an ex headache she was dealing with so her trust issues were loud and this time wrong when it came to DJ. Her lil hatin friend didn’t help either. I enjoyed the side characters and it made me want to read their books so I can’t wait because Ali is a whole fool but a beast with no heart, Jamel done fell in love with stripper, and all of the other guys. Definitely don’t fight the feelings just go with the flow. This was an excellent read!
I love me some Dexter Dent Jr. He is a man who knows what he wants and does not stop until he gets it. He was very determined to show his love for Shavozz and make sure she knew just how he felt. His love language is certain gift giving. He is definitely like Isaiah.
Shavozz was giving me the blues chile. I felt like if she wasn’t ready for what DJ has to offer, she shouldn’t have even entertained him. I’m happy when she finally came around to giving him a fair chance though. Her ex husband Elvis though, should’ve gotten shot tho lol. And I was really hoping that Ali would’ve took her terrible ass best friend Talisha up outta here.
Can’t wait for the ratchetness that will be Jamel’s story cause from the way things were starting in this book.
As always Monica never disappoints with the story or the sexy nastiness of these characters.
What the h...e... double hockey sticks is really going on here!!! DJ and Shavozz; Talitha, Elvis, & Ali, the whole Berotte clan (babies included). If this ain't a family of thick n thin and hold onto your seat kinda drama with the twists and turns. It seems everyone has some sort of hang ups and past traumas that make your head spin...then draw you in more than expected then your not seeing the reality of life's true nature. Love the explosiveness of each members temperament and commitment to stand by each other no matter what happens. Marriages, babies, and "thot's bringing about the true character of each person affected is bold and beautiful seeing how each grows, matures and still show they haven't lost their true nature, just have a softer side when not aggravated. Beautiful beautiful show of true love and acceptance all around!!!