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Shattered Cove #3
Defying Gravity
A Black nurse with a teenager to raise. A white cop hiding a tender heart. Do they have what it takes to indulge their forbidden passion?
Caregiver Belle Jones always puts her own needs last on the list. As a busy nurse and sole provider for her teenage brother, she has no time for meaningless hookups. And when her younger sibling arrives home in the backseat of a police car, the fury she feels for his strutting uniformed escort far outweighs her spark of desire.
Sheriff Bently Evans works hard to protect his town… and keep his emotions locked away. When it comes to relationships, that means burying his real feelings behind crass humor and his flirtatious playboy reputation. But after driving a stranded African American teen home, he meets a stunning woman who makes it impossible to sustain his act.
As Belle slowly falls for the rugged lawman’s true gentle nature, she fears he’s not the type to ever commit. And just as Bently is ready to be vulnerable, an ominous warning forces him to push the woman he desires away from a deadly risk.
Will a judgmental society drive a wedge between them, or can they conquer all with their powerful love?
Defying Gravity is the tantalizing third standalone novel in the Shattered Cove contemporary romance series. If you like off-limits passions, socially relevant reads, and couples who triumph over adversity, then you’ll adore A. M. Kusi’s page-turning tale.
Buy Defying Gravity to find hope and healing today!
***No cheating. HEA guaranteed.***
Caregiver Belle Jones always puts her own needs last on the list. As a busy nurse and sole provider for her teenage brother, she has no time for meaningless hookups. And when her younger sibling arrives home in the backseat of a police car, the fury she feels for his strutting uniformed escort far outweighs her spark of desire.
Sheriff Bently Evans works hard to protect his town… and keep his emotions locked away. When it comes to relationships, that means burying his real feelings behind crass humor and his flirtatious playboy reputation. But after driving a stranded African American teen home, he meets a stunning woman who makes it impossible to sustain his act.
As Belle slowly falls for the rugged lawman’s true gentle nature, she fears he’s not the type to ever commit. And just as Bently is ready to be vulnerable, an ominous warning forces him to push the woman he desires away from a deadly risk.
Will a judgmental society drive a wedge between them, or can they conquer all with their powerful love?
Defying Gravity is the tantalizing third standalone novel in the Shattered Cove contemporary romance series. If you like off-limits passions, socially relevant reads, and couples who triumph over adversity, then you’ll adore A. M. Kusi’s page-turning tale.
Buy Defying Gravity to find hope and healing today!
***No cheating. HEA guaranteed.***
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2020
About the author
A.M. Kusi
32 books144 followersA. M. Kusi is a wife-and-husband romance author team. Our novels feature diverse characters, are spicy, socially relevant, emotional, and always have a happy ending.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
October 18, 2020
4.5 stars
‘Maybe they were both broken. But just maybe their shattered pieces could come together and make something whole.’
As soon as we read the synopsis, we knew we wanted to read Defying Gravity. The subject matter and the fact it’s written by an interracial couple intensified our interest. What a remarkable story it was. Belle and Bently’s story was poignant, passionate, and fundamentally important. Insightful without being heavy-handed. Defying Gravity tenderly and shockingly schooled us in so many ways. Whilst part of a series, this can be read as a standalone, which is how we experienced it.
“The battle scars will always be there, but they’re a reminder of what I’ve lived through and what’s made me stronger.”
A.M. Kusi told us if we loved ‘off-limits passion, socially relevant reads, and a couple who triumph over adversity’ – then this book was for us and we were sold! As much as our hearts burn for romance, we also love when a book educates us and makes us want to further explore its contents. Well, Defying Gravity did this and much more!
‘The one time I actually open up enough to love someone, my heart chooses the most unavailable man on the planet.’
Defying Gravity was many things entwined into one story. A blistering and steamy romance that’s both sweet and tragic, but, above all, it’s incredibly poignant, relevant, distressing and so incredibly emotional. This story unconditionally stole our hearts for so many reasons.
The thread that binds this story into one is the systemic racism in American society. White privilege, the fundamental lack of knowledge and understanding about the depth of daily suffering, intense fear, and consequential grief. Now, all that may sound heavy-handed for a romance, but the way these authors tell Belle and Bently’s story is anything but. These authors connected us to their characters, so much so we felt their plights and obstacles deep within our hearts.
‘If he could only be in the shadow of the sun, it was better than the utter darkness of his life before Belle.’
This love story was a slow burn, emotional and complicated, but it was also relevant and thought-provoking. Beautiful, ugly, honest, and raw. The only reason for why this story wasn’t quite a 5 star read for us was the copious drawn-out sex scenes which were in danger of overwhelming an incredibly poignant story. Sometimes less is more so that it doesn’t detract from the story and avoids elements of cheesiness.
A.M. Kusi have managed to tell a sensitive and difficult story without demonising or generalising, instead, relying on our bonds with the characters to make their point, which they did beautifully. This is a story that will make you ache; it will break your heart and heal your heart and hopefully, it will make you think and more importantly, make you care.
‘He’d hidden scars only evident for those that knew what they looked like.’
Available to purchase below
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October 10, 2020
Defying Gravity
There is a book being released tomorrow, October, 1st written by the husband and wife writing team of A.M. Kusi, “Defying Gravity”
I don’t write reviews for books that I work on but I will tell you this book is a MUST read. It is every fear, every truth, every disbelief, every lie, every honesty, every love rolled into the confines of 88,532 words/255 pages.
I met this husband and wife team about two years ago when they hired A Book A Day to be their sensitivity editor. We are now more than author/editor or professional/client. We are family.
Their books are filled with interracial couples struggling with the realism of life and not the fantasies of romance. Their stories are my life, your life, the life of the person next door, down the street or around the corner. They are the stories of the fear instilled in people. The bias people show. The prejudice people harbor. The healing that can happen.
In writing about interracial couple, A.M Kusi are more than qualified. She is a white woman from Vermont and he is a Black man from Ghana (I just love listening to him talk). Their story is just as amazing as their words.
When they sent us Defying Gravity to edit they gave us no precursor to the story. We didn’t have a blurb, an inkling of what we were about to delve into. We went in totally blind. All I can say is I was mesmerised by this story, and the emotions it stirred in me. Once I finished I Facetimed them and my first words were, “I hate you”. Ash turned around to her husband, Marcus and simply said, “Renita hates us.” And then I cried. I sat there in front of these two authors and cried real tears. Tears of understanding. Tears of compassion. Tears of anger. Tears of joy. Tears of pride.
I won’t tell you the story. I won’t talk about the characters. I won’t delve into the core. I won’t do anything but let you know this book is my top read of 2020. I suggest, I implore and highly encourage you to read Defying Gravity. I can assure you when you read the end you will be a different person.
There is a book being released tomorrow, October, 1st written by the husband and wife writing team of A.M. Kusi, “Defying Gravity”
I don’t write reviews for books that I work on but I will tell you this book is a MUST read. It is every fear, every truth, every disbelief, every lie, every honesty, every love rolled into the confines of 88,532 words/255 pages.
I met this husband and wife team about two years ago when they hired A Book A Day to be their sensitivity editor. We are now more than author/editor or professional/client. We are family.
Their books are filled with interracial couples struggling with the realism of life and not the fantasies of romance. Their stories are my life, your life, the life of the person next door, down the street or around the corner. They are the stories of the fear instilled in people. The bias people show. The prejudice people harbor. The healing that can happen.
In writing about interracial couple, A.M Kusi are more than qualified. She is a white woman from Vermont and he is a Black man from Ghana (I just love listening to him talk). Their story is just as amazing as their words.
When they sent us Defying Gravity to edit they gave us no precursor to the story. We didn’t have a blurb, an inkling of what we were about to delve into. We went in totally blind. All I can say is I was mesmerised by this story, and the emotions it stirred in me. Once I finished I Facetimed them and my first words were, “I hate you”. Ash turned around to her husband, Marcus and simply said, “Renita hates us.” And then I cried. I sat there in front of these two authors and cried real tears. Tears of understanding. Tears of compassion. Tears of anger. Tears of joy. Tears of pride.
I won’t tell you the story. I won’t talk about the characters. I won’t delve into the core. I won’t do anything but let you know this book is my top read of 2020. I suggest, I implore and highly encourage you to read Defying Gravity. I can assure you when you read the end you will be a different person.
October 13, 2020
I am saying it now, Defying Gravity will be my best read of 2020. This book touched me so much, that I asked Grace of After Dark Book Lovers if I could do a Guest Review because this book is so emotionally relevant with what is going on in the U.S. with the #BlackLivesMatter Movement, that I need for a lot of people to read this book.
Just as the blurb mentions, Belle is a caregiver, not only at the hospital where she a nurse, but most of all to her younger brother, TJ, whom she has raised since she was 7 years old. That is a lot to take on for a young woman, but she wants the very best for TJ. Bently Evans, is the Shattered Cove's Sheriff, with a flirtatious way and smirk and the most eligible bachelor. But he does have the biggest heart and will do anything to protect his small town and his friends and family. But he is a true evader of having a real relationship, which makes him hide behind with humor with the form of innuendos, but deep down, you will know he's hiding something deeper, darker if you will so no one can see his internal scars.
Belle and Bently's "meet cute" is not very cute at all, after she sees her younger brother coming out of a white cop's squad car, with a nice shiner, well things get pretty intense. Bently is admiring the gorgeous black woman before him, meanwhile Belle wants nothing to so with Bently. Ah but you cannot mess with chemistry, that's for sure and they both exude it times 1,000!
Belle's and Bently's upbringing are pretty similar, until they start discussing their past is when you will see similarities, but Bently, he has the weight on his shoulder, so much so, that he pushes Belle away just when things start progressing. What I loved, is Bently's friendship with TJ, it was true and pure. Although Belle may have thought ulterior motives were involved and when you read this book, you will understand.
There are many things in the story that could have prevented this love story to unfold. I know there were many times where I wanted to shake Bently, sometimes Belle too, but mostly Bently. When the relationship takes one step forward, something happens to take it two steps back. Oh man the angst throughout and the tears, I might have cried that last 20 minutes of this book. Like full on tears running down my face, blurry because of said tears. All I kept doing was rooting for this couple and so will you.
This book was recommended in a group that I belong to on Facebook, Let's Talk Black. I joined this group soon after the George Floyd murder. I was so angry, I am still angry with what happened to him and the many other senseless murders of black men, by white male cops. Do I think all cops are murderers and racists? No. Do I think there needs to be an overhaul and retraining on law enforcement personnel with regards to persons of color? Absolutely! I am a person of color, and yes, I have been profiled while driving my car, minding my business, abiding the law. I have been followed in many clothing stores, just browsing, and have felt the sales clerks follow my every move. I mean, you cannot fix ignorance in a day, but you can educate yourself and do your part regarding systematic racism that is plaguing our country. Research, read more books regarding racism. Don't say "I don't see color", that's the wrong thing to say, in my opinion! We all see color, we just need to embrace all colors of the rainbow.
The writing duo is a white woman and a black man from Ghana. They poured their heart and soul in writing this story. As mentioned above, it is a totally relevant book for 2020 with what is going on in the U.S. and one of my best reads for 2020.
Thank you Grace for letting me Guest Review this wonderful book.
Just as the blurb mentions, Belle is a caregiver, not only at the hospital where she a nurse, but most of all to her younger brother, TJ, whom she has raised since she was 7 years old. That is a lot to take on for a young woman, but she wants the very best for TJ. Bently Evans, is the Shattered Cove's Sheriff, with a flirtatious way and smirk and the most eligible bachelor. But he does have the biggest heart and will do anything to protect his small town and his friends and family. But he is a true evader of having a real relationship, which makes him hide behind with humor with the form of innuendos, but deep down, you will know he's hiding something deeper, darker if you will so no one can see his internal scars.
Belle and Bently's "meet cute" is not very cute at all, after she sees her younger brother coming out of a white cop's squad car, with a nice shiner, well things get pretty intense. Bently is admiring the gorgeous black woman before him, meanwhile Belle wants nothing to so with Bently. Ah but you cannot mess with chemistry, that's for sure and they both exude it times 1,000!
Belle's and Bently's upbringing are pretty similar, until they start discussing their past is when you will see similarities, but Bently, he has the weight on his shoulder, so much so, that he pushes Belle away just when things start progressing. What I loved, is Bently's friendship with TJ, it was true and pure. Although Belle may have thought ulterior motives were involved and when you read this book, you will understand.
There are many things in the story that could have prevented this love story to unfold. I know there were many times where I wanted to shake Bently, sometimes Belle too, but mostly Bently. When the relationship takes one step forward, something happens to take it two steps back. Oh man the angst throughout and the tears, I might have cried that last 20 minutes of this book. Like full on tears running down my face, blurry because of said tears. All I kept doing was rooting for this couple and so will you.
This book was recommended in a group that I belong to on Facebook, Let's Talk Black. I joined this group soon after the George Floyd murder. I was so angry, I am still angry with what happened to him and the many other senseless murders of black men, by white male cops. Do I think all cops are murderers and racists? No. Do I think there needs to be an overhaul and retraining on law enforcement personnel with regards to persons of color? Absolutely! I am a person of color, and yes, I have been profiled while driving my car, minding my business, abiding the law. I have been followed in many clothing stores, just browsing, and have felt the sales clerks follow my every move. I mean, you cannot fix ignorance in a day, but you can educate yourself and do your part regarding systematic racism that is plaguing our country. Research, read more books regarding racism. Don't say "I don't see color", that's the wrong thing to say, in my opinion! We all see color, we just need to embrace all colors of the rainbow.
The writing duo is a white woman and a black man from Ghana. They poured their heart and soul in writing this story. As mentioned above, it is a totally relevant book for 2020 with what is going on in the U.S. and one of my best reads for 2020.
Thank you Grace for letting me Guest Review this wonderful book.
October 17, 2020
4.5 stars
‘Maybe they were both broken. But just maybe their shattered pieces could come together and make something whole.’
As soon as we read the synopsis, we knew we wanted to read Defying Gravity. The subject matter and the fact it’s written by an interracial couple intensified our interest. What a remarkable story it was. Belle and Bently’s story was poignant, passionate, and fundamentally important. Insightful without being heavy-handed. Defying Gravity tenderly and shockingly schooled us in so many ways. Whilst part of a series, this can be read as a standalone, which is how we experienced it.
“The battle scars will always be there, but they’re a reminder of what I’ve lived through and what’s made me stronger.”
A.M. Kusi told us if we loved ‘off-limits passion, socially relevant reads, and a couple who triumph over adversity’ – then this book was for us and we were sold! As much as our hearts burn for romance, we also love when a book educates us and makes us want to further explore its contents. Well, Defying Gravity did this and much more!
‘The one time I actually open up enough to love someone, my heart chooses the most unavailable man on the planet.’
Defying Gravity was many things entwined into one story. A blistering and steamy romance that’s both sweet and tragic, but, above all, it’s incredibly poignant, relevant, distressing and so incredibly emotional. This story unconditionally stole our hearts for so many reasons.
The thread that binds this story into one is the systemic racism in American society. White privilege, the fundamental lack of knowledge and understanding about the depth of daily suffering, intense fear, and consequential grief. Now, all that may sound heavy-handed for a romance, but the way these authors tell Belle and Bently’s story is anything but. These authors connected us to their characters, so much so we felt their plights and obstacles deep within our hearts.
‘If he could only be in the shadow of the sun, it was better than the utter darkness of his life before Belle.’
This love story was a slow burn, emotional and complicated, but it was also relevant and thought-provoking. Beautiful, ugly, honest, and raw. The only reason for why this story wasn’t quite a 5 star read for us was the copious drawn-out sex scenes which were in danger of overwhelming an incredibly poignant story. Sometimes less is more so that it doesn’t detract from the story and avoids elements of cheesiness.
A.M. Kusi have managed to tell a sensitive and difficult story without demonising or generalising, instead, relying on our bonds with the characters to make their point, which they did beautifully. This is a story that will make you ache; it will break your heart and heal your heart and hopefully, it will make you think and more importantly, make you care.
‘He’d hidden scars only evident for those that knew what they looked like.’
Available to purchase below
Amazon US
Amazon UK
Come and say hi, at:
✲ TotallyBookedBlog
✲ TBB on Facebook
✲ TBB on Instagram
✲ TBB on Twitter
✲ TBB on Pinterest
October 2, 2020
4.50 Stars
Oh my this book was just wow...
I can't even describe to you all the feeling reading this book, especially with what's been going on in the world lately.
I adored Belle. She was strong a fighter she was a protective big sister and she was just an all around amazing person. What she went through to get her brother and her to have an amazing life and she gave him an awesome life.
Sheriff Brantley protector playing at being a playboy (as I've seen no evidence of this) and loyall to a fault. To his brother and sister and to his fellow officers. When he gave a boy a ride home he didn't expect to have an instant attraction to the boys sister, Belle. But because of his past Brantley didn't think he was good enough for her. But Belle wasn't a one night stand type of girl she wanted the whole nine yards and Brantley couldn't give it to her. Will he be able to overcome his feelings of not being able to protect her and his family or should he let her go once and for all😔
This book had so much emotion in it. The characters tragic pasts will have your heart broken. But also happy when you see how far fhey have come. And rooting for them to have a happily ever after. Lots of surprises and suspense will have you guessing on what's happening next.
I am looking forward to Jasmine's story. Can't wait😊💖
Read on behalf of
Fay's Corner
Oh my this book was just wow...
I can't even describe to you all the feeling reading this book, especially with what's been going on in the world lately.
I adored Belle. She was strong a fighter she was a protective big sister and she was just an all around amazing person. What she went through to get her brother and her to have an amazing life and she gave him an awesome life.
Sheriff Brantley protector playing at being a playboy (as I've seen no evidence of this) and loyall to a fault. To his brother and sister and to his fellow officers. When he gave a boy a ride home he didn't expect to have an instant attraction to the boys sister, Belle. But because of his past Brantley didn't think he was good enough for her. But Belle wasn't a one night stand type of girl she wanted the whole nine yards and Brantley couldn't give it to her. Will he be able to overcome his feelings of not being able to protect her and his family or should he let her go once and for all😔
This book had so much emotion in it. The characters tragic pasts will have your heart broken. But also happy when you see how far fhey have come. And rooting for them to have a happily ever after. Lots of surprises and suspense will have you guessing on what's happening next.
I am looking forward to Jasmine's story. Can't wait😊💖
Read on behalf of
Fay's Corner
October 23, 2020
Though I was thoroughly looking forward to reading all about Bently (I love his name) I wasn't prepared for this story. This story is emotional, familiar and unexpected. I may or may not come back and write a full review, but today I need to sit with my emotions.
Ultimately, I'm going to say that Belle deserved better than what she was given after all she'd been through in her short life. This story feels like more especially with the elephant in the room that was addressed by another reviewer. This is one of those stories where I wish there were two versions and I could choose the one that brought me the most satisfaction--this one didn't.
All in all, this story feels unfinished -- unlike the complete ending readers got from Remy and Mikel's Story. So--I hope to hear more from Belle and Bently in the future and I look forward to reading Jasmine's Story and catching up with Bently, Belle, Mia, Andre, Remy and Mikel but especially Belle and Bently!
Recommended: Read It!
Ultimately, I'm going to say that Belle deserved better than what she was given after all she'd been through in her short life. This story feels like more especially with the elephant in the room that was addressed by another reviewer. This is one of those stories where I wish there were two versions and I could choose the one that brought me the most satisfaction--this one didn't.
All in all, this story feels unfinished -- unlike the complete ending readers got from Remy and Mikel's Story. So--I hope to hear more from Belle and Bently in the future and I look forward to reading Jasmine's Story and catching up with Bently, Belle, Mia, Andre, Remy and Mikel but especially Belle and Bently!
Recommended: Read It!
October 1, 2020
I read this book, and all I could think upon finishing is wow. It was a powerful book about what a lot of us would rather ignore. We all like to believe we are ok, but the reality is so ingrained we, as white people, don't realize the privilege we have. This book was very enlightening and also a moving story.
Sherrif Bently Evans sees himself as a guy who isn't racist; his best friend is black, and so is his sister-in-law. He just goes about his business, and when he meets Belle, he is completely taken by her. He also is drawn to her younger brother and befriends him. One of the most powerfully moving scenes in the book is when the black people in Bently's life explain that being "colorblind" is not what it's about; it's about embracing the differences and celebrating them. You can't walk in another's shoes when just your appearance determines how people will react to you.
Belle was initially hesitant to have anything to do with Bentley because he's a cop, and he's white. But the friendship he builds with her brother sets the stage for the budding romance. Bently and Belle fall deeply in love, but other things are work in their town that bring danger to their relationship. Other things that happen have both taking hard looks at how they both view the world and each other.
Defying Gravity is a moving romance tale that entertained and made me think. It was heartbreaking at times, but it did not detract from how good a job the author did. Defying Gravity was the first book I read by this author, and it definitely will not be the last.
Sherrif Bently Evans sees himself as a guy who isn't racist; his best friend is black, and so is his sister-in-law. He just goes about his business, and when he meets Belle, he is completely taken by her. He also is drawn to her younger brother and befriends him. One of the most powerfully moving scenes in the book is when the black people in Bently's life explain that being "colorblind" is not what it's about; it's about embracing the differences and celebrating them. You can't walk in another's shoes when just your appearance determines how people will react to you.
Belle was initially hesitant to have anything to do with Bentley because he's a cop, and he's white. But the friendship he builds with her brother sets the stage for the budding romance. Bently and Belle fall deeply in love, but other things are work in their town that bring danger to their relationship. Other things that happen have both taking hard looks at how they both view the world and each other.
Defying Gravity is a moving romance tale that entertained and made me think. It was heartbreaking at times, but it did not detract from how good a job the author did. Defying Gravity was the first book I read by this author, and it definitely will not be the last.
July 8, 2020
In Defying Gravity, we get Bently and Belle's story. We have barely met Belle, but we know Bently as the ultimate protector, the big brother, the sheriff, the one who puts family above all. While this story could be a standalone, to best understand and feel the story, you should read Books 1 and 2 in the Shattered Cove series first to get the full character storylines.
This is a very socially relevant book. When we met Belle in Glass Secrets, we get the idea that she and Bently have met, but we don't know how they've met, or what their relationship is, we just know there's some tense feelings between the two. Defying Gravity delves into so many important topics in interracial relationships including how past experiences influence first impressions, privilege, and navigating the world we live in.
Belle and Bently both have a lot of emotional baggage and we unpack their baggage as their journey goes on throughout the book. However, even as they deal with past traumas to grow together as a couple, their currently world isn't all sunshine and rainbows. Nothing in this book is unrealistic, over the top, or outrageous.
Defying Gravity will lift you up, it will gut you, and it will make you take a real look at the world around you. Defying Gravity is real, it's raw, and it's still a love story. I can't imagine how one could finish this book unaffected.
This is a very socially relevant book. When we met Belle in Glass Secrets, we get the idea that she and Bently have met, but we don't know how they've met, or what their relationship is, we just know there's some tense feelings between the two. Defying Gravity delves into so many important topics in interracial relationships including how past experiences influence first impressions, privilege, and navigating the world we live in.
Belle and Bently both have a lot of emotional baggage and we unpack their baggage as their journey goes on throughout the book. However, even as they deal with past traumas to grow together as a couple, their currently world isn't all sunshine and rainbows. Nothing in this book is unrealistic, over the top, or outrageous.
Defying Gravity will lift you up, it will gut you, and it will make you take a real look at the world around you. Defying Gravity is real, it's raw, and it's still a love story. I can't imagine how one could finish this book unaffected.
October 1, 2020
There are a lot of authors out there who have a story to tell us readers. Writing is a form of art, expression of the soul. This 10 star story came highly recommended. I read the blurb and was like “I really want to read this story”. In the blurb, the author mentioned a black women raising a teenager, and a white policeman. To me, this author had something to express with the art of writing.
This story is about 2 lost souls traveling a lonely journey but on a same road. They just happen to cross paths.
I basically devoured this story in a few short hours. I was intrigued and captivated by this heartbreaking and heartfelt story. This a fictional story but some aspects of it are real day issues, that’s what got to me. I was mesmerized by these amazing characters that made me feel a whirlwind of emotions. It was a rough roller coaster ride. Rest assured it comes with an HEA. To get there, I went through many emotions.
This story delivers a strong message and trust me I got it too. After reading it, it made me look at things differently. It made me take my head out of the sand and really look. For that I give HIGH praise to this amazing story and author. Nothing that I will say will give it enough justice. Bottomline this is a MUST read.
Told in the third person with an HEA. I strongly recommend this story. I can’t wait to read more from this series.
October 1, 2020
Defying Gravity is a story that is so important in this time in history because of all the social injustice everywhere leading to the US being on fire. Belle is a nurse who is raising her teenage brother, so her needs don't matter in the grand scheme of things. Bentley is the sheriff with a big heart, who would help anyone out, and puts family first no matter what. These two meet, and it definitely could have gone better to be honest. That doesn't change the fact that they're about to embark on a new journey that won't be easy as an interracial couple. You would think that in 2020 things would be improved, but we've gone backwards instead, so this story was completely realistic and really messed with my emotions. Both of them have some past baggage which won't help anything, and then there's some things that will come up that could absolutely destroy them, so will they be able to stand strong to get through everything thrown at them?! Hit those one click buttons to find out! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!
September 29, 2020
This is the third book in a series of interconnected standalones and I would recommend reading them all so you know how all the characters connect.
In previous books we got to know Bently as the playboy with a heart now we get to see him in a new light when he meets Belle and her brother TJ. Of the three books this one is the one that I felt the most because the issues raised in the story are so relevant right now. Belle is the one of the fiercest young woman I've read for sometime. I loved the sibling relationship it was written beautifully and straddled that line between older sister who assumes the paternal role with ease. We see Bently fall fast and hard and have to work hard to win the trust of a very hesitant Belle.
This is a story that strikes at the heart of family and society and I challenge anyone to come away from reading this and not feel changed on a deeper level.
In previous books we got to know Bently as the playboy with a heart now we get to see him in a new light when he meets Belle and her brother TJ. Of the three books this one is the one that I felt the most because the issues raised in the story are so relevant right now. Belle is the one of the fiercest young woman I've read for sometime. I loved the sibling relationship it was written beautifully and straddled that line between older sister who assumes the paternal role with ease. We see Bently fall fast and hard and have to work hard to win the trust of a very hesitant Belle.
This is a story that strikes at the heart of family and society and I challenge anyone to come away from reading this and not feel changed on a deeper level.
September 30, 2020
This is the 3rd book in this amazing series and is Bentley and Belle’s story. Belle is a caregiver with a huge heart and she always puts everyone else before her own needs. Bentley is the sheriff who work hard to protect his town and has the reputation as a playboy, but underneath he has a heart of gold. When Bentley arrives at Belle’s house with her younger brother in the car, he is instantly drawn to Belle. Both characters have emotional baggage to overcome as well as a judgemental society, do they have any chance of having a relationship? This is a beautifully written tale which this talented duo has done an outstanding job of penning. This story is realistic, and is raw, gritty, tragic, and is a beautiful and poignant love story. I was captivated throughout this addictive page turner, and I highly recommend for all.
September 20, 2020
I received this free eARC novel from the author and Wildfire Marketing Solutions. This is my honest review.
I have been following these characters during the whole series, and this book is by far the most gut wrenching of the bunch. Both of these characters have had a terrible life growing up, but they are surviving to be strong for the ones they love.
Bently has always been a mystery for me. He's a protector, the sheriff, but tries to act like a play boy with the women. They way he fell for Belle was entertaining because he was at a loss for words, plus she didn't fall for his cheesy lines.
Belle grew into an adult at the age of 7 and she had always been taking care of everyone, especially her bother TJ. So when Bently starts to show up in her life, she reacts with her mama bear instincts.
These two start to pick away at each other's walls and seeing them fall for each other was great. They also both had to learn the differences in each other's lives and how they react to stereotypes is not always the right way.
This book reflects so much of what is happening in our lives right now. The way the authors explained the emotions, the actions, the decisions... they did a phenomenal job.
I'm very grateful that I am able to read and experience AM Kusi's work and I hope I am lucky enough to continue reading their future novels, because I cannot get enough!
I have been following these characters during the whole series, and this book is by far the most gut wrenching of the bunch. Both of these characters have had a terrible life growing up, but they are surviving to be strong for the ones they love.
Bently has always been a mystery for me. He's a protector, the sheriff, but tries to act like a play boy with the women. They way he fell for Belle was entertaining because he was at a loss for words, plus she didn't fall for his cheesy lines.
Belle grew into an adult at the age of 7 and she had always been taking care of everyone, especially her bother TJ. So when Bently starts to show up in her life, she reacts with her mama bear instincts.
These two start to pick away at each other's walls and seeing them fall for each other was great. They also both had to learn the differences in each other's lives and how they react to stereotypes is not always the right way.
This book reflects so much of what is happening in our lives right now. The way the authors explained the emotions, the actions, the decisions... they did a phenomenal job.
I'm very grateful that I am able to read and experience AM Kusi's work and I hope I am lucky enough to continue reading their future novels, because I cannot get enough!
October 3, 2020
This book, in one word, is amazing. I was intrigued by blurb and felt pulled to this book. This book gutted me and made me experience and feel things a book hasn't in a long time. Huge kudos to the author. Well written, brilliant storyline. This story will stick with you and I think everyone should read it. Definitely a must read!
October 3, 2020
This is really a great book. With everything that's going on, the authors interpret it in this story nicely. It talks about the issue that's going on currently in the world. It delivers a very important and powerful message and I loved that about this book. I feel like everyone should have a read.
This is just one amazing and wonderful book. It was not what I was expecting but definitely needed. Very well-written. Definitely a must-read!
This is just one amazing and wonderful book. It was not what I was expecting but definitely needed. Very well-written. Definitely a must-read!
October 3, 2020
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 11, 2020
She told me it was going to break my heart. I didn't believe Renita when she told me, but she did warn me.
Belle Jones is maybe the fiercest woman I have ever met in a book; direct and honest and no-nonsense, she rules her home with forthrightness while running herd on her younger brother, TJ, and makes sure he is always on the straight and narrow. She is the mother he desperately needs and she has no time for the foolishness of any man, especially not a man in uniform.
But, then again, not every man in uniform is Bently Evans.
I can't say anything about this book without giving too much away but I can say this; it has everything. It is romantic and real, and very relevant to the social climate we live in; I have never finished a book where I felt this way but it moved me and it changed me.
Beautiful and moving and tragic; I can see this being a book I reread over and over even when I know it's going to shatter my heart into a thousand tiny little pieces.
Belle Jones is maybe the fiercest woman I have ever met in a book; direct and honest and no-nonsense, she rules her home with forthrightness while running herd on her younger brother, TJ, and makes sure he is always on the straight and narrow. She is the mother he desperately needs and she has no time for the foolishness of any man, especially not a man in uniform.
But, then again, not every man in uniform is Bently Evans.
I can't say anything about this book without giving too much away but I can say this; it has everything. It is romantic and real, and very relevant to the social climate we live in; I have never finished a book where I felt this way but it moved me and it changed me.
Beautiful and moving and tragic; I can see this being a book I reread over and over even when I know it's going to shatter my heart into a thousand tiny little pieces.
October 12, 2020
Good read
However at times some of the situations felt like overkill. First off, Bently’s infertility. I understand that he had cancer, however apparently it was diagnosed early. In these cases, patients can freeze sperm just in case. So the authors chose the most extreme possibility. Then with TJ, I felt like everything was thrown at him but the kitchen sink. After, his childhood, the bullying and the stalking and bat incident in Belle’s home, the police involved shooting felt too much. I know it’s unfortunately a reality for a disproportionate number of black people, however after everything, I would have preferred this topic to be touched upon in another book and for Belle to have a bit of happiness. She sacrificed so much for TJ, they both could have used a win.
However at times some of the situations felt like overkill. First off, Bently’s infertility. I understand that he had cancer, however apparently it was diagnosed early. In these cases, patients can freeze sperm just in case. So the authors chose the most extreme possibility. Then with TJ, I felt like everything was thrown at him but the kitchen sink. After, his childhood, the bullying and the stalking and bat incident in Belle’s home, the police involved shooting felt too much. I know it’s unfortunately a reality for a disproportionate number of black people, however after everything, I would have preferred this topic to be touched upon in another book and for Belle to have a bit of happiness. She sacrificed so much for TJ, they both could have used a win.
July 15, 2020
This will be the book to put this team over the top in the bookworld.
Just an amazing story, facing current events and showing a clear understanding of what is really important in life.
This one will have you feeling all sorts of ways!
Just an amazing story, facing current events and showing a clear understanding of what is really important in life.
This one will have you feeling all sorts of ways!
October 18, 2020
This book broke my heart. It’s an incredible eye opener into the perils of being born with black skin. It has insights into the non action of people against racism, not because they are racist themselves, but because they are content in their white lives, and don’t think about it. With white skin comes white conformity which extends into white consent.
The authors of this book are doing a great service to the community in presenting several evils in this society. Domestic violence, child abuse, and persistent systemic racism are themes present in this story, in a very humanized way. I went through a lot of emotions while reading: anger, compassion, frustration, confusion, and acute grief. I salute A.M. Kusi and the emotional message they send. I agree with them, this needs to be addressed by communication, learning, and a systemic change of laws and procedures.
Bently is the sherif and also Shattered Cove’s resident playboy. He’s very handsome and a serious flirt! His cheesy lines in this story were hilarious! He’s such a decent person, with a strong sense of values, most prominent the need to serve and protect. He carries a heavy weight of grief and guilt from his childhood. He feels he failed in protecting his siblings from their father’s abuse. This projects into his attitude about love: he refuses to fall in love, so he relies on one-night stands. And now that he’s the sherif, those activities happen outside of the town’s boundaries.
When Bently meets Belle for the first time, he’s gobsmacked silly with her beauty and spunk. Belle, with the typical attitude of POC when faced with the law, was openly hostile and saw him as the enemy. It took many attempts, his family, and friends to help his cause, and befriending her younger brother, to get Belle to change her mind and give him a chance.
Apart from the give and take of Bently’s issues and Belle’s reticence, there’s a strong sense of family where diversity is present: brown, black and white coexist in a strong loving environment, as it should be. The love and acceptance is strong, and for the first time Belle learns what it feels to have a supporting community at her back. There are many tender positive moments where Belle cries happy tears.
This is an emotional tale, there are strong issues, strong emotions and tragedy. The resilience of the characters wows my heart. It’s overwhelmingly sad and positive and a lesson in redemption. Must read with tissues at hand!
The authors of this book are doing a great service to the community in presenting several evils in this society. Domestic violence, child abuse, and persistent systemic racism are themes present in this story, in a very humanized way. I went through a lot of emotions while reading: anger, compassion, frustration, confusion, and acute grief. I salute A.M. Kusi and the emotional message they send. I agree with them, this needs to be addressed by communication, learning, and a systemic change of laws and procedures.
Bently is the sherif and also Shattered Cove’s resident playboy. He’s very handsome and a serious flirt! His cheesy lines in this story were hilarious! He’s such a decent person, with a strong sense of values, most prominent the need to serve and protect. He carries a heavy weight of grief and guilt from his childhood. He feels he failed in protecting his siblings from their father’s abuse. This projects into his attitude about love: he refuses to fall in love, so he relies on one-night stands. And now that he’s the sherif, those activities happen outside of the town’s boundaries.
When Bently meets Belle for the first time, he’s gobsmacked silly with her beauty and spunk. Belle, with the typical attitude of POC when faced with the law, was openly hostile and saw him as the enemy. It took many attempts, his family, and friends to help his cause, and befriending her younger brother, to get Belle to change her mind and give him a chance.
Apart from the give and take of Bently’s issues and Belle’s reticence, there’s a strong sense of family where diversity is present: brown, black and white coexist in a strong loving environment, as it should be. The love and acceptance is strong, and for the first time Belle learns what it feels to have a supporting community at her back. There are many tender positive moments where Belle cries happy tears.
This is an emotional tale, there are strong issues, strong emotions and tragedy. The resilience of the characters wows my heart. It’s overwhelmingly sad and positive and a lesson in redemption. Must read with tissues at hand!
December 6, 2020
Something really astonishing that strikes you personally.
They authors wrote a book that conforms to the form of privilege and racism that persists in modern society.
The story/plot is a complex and tentacular tale, full of details, diversity and a superb contrast of the world that doesn’t always runs very well.
This is a book with realism scattered throughout the story. There are twists, loves and devastating ripples that will pull upon the cords of your heart.
This book is a really interesting vision of a forbidden romance between two improbable people who have been prejudged by others and the journey their relationship had to endure for them to enter into a relationship.
This book chronologically narrates the life of nurse (Belle) who is raising her younger brother (TJ) while discovering new things about herself and the community she lives in. She must give up the ordeals of the past and forge new ties with those around her.
And, Bentley the sheriff who has to learn what it means to be communicative, and be in a serious relationship. He will,have to demonstrate that that he’s willing to do what it takes for the sake of love, coupled with the determination of letting down his guard and making the relationship with Belle work.
The only complaint I have about this novel is Bentley's hot and cold attitude, and the way he remains silent about himself, instead of opening up to his horrific childhood, although I understand why he was like that.
The story itself was also about his journey toward self-acceptance and healing his scars. I hate that he kept pushing Belle away when the numerous conflicts they face could have been resolved if he had just spoken up and told Belle his biggest fears.
If you love books that deal with political issues that are really important to be conscious; and if you are entertain by complex, morally ambiguous drama, check this one out.
I would certainly suggest that you get this book.
They authors wrote a book that conforms to the form of privilege and racism that persists in modern society.
The story/plot is a complex and tentacular tale, full of details, diversity and a superb contrast of the world that doesn’t always runs very well.
This is a book with realism scattered throughout the story. There are twists, loves and devastating ripples that will pull upon the cords of your heart.
This book is a really interesting vision of a forbidden romance between two improbable people who have been prejudged by others and the journey their relationship had to endure for them to enter into a relationship.
This book chronologically narrates the life of nurse (Belle) who is raising her younger brother (TJ) while discovering new things about herself and the community she lives in. She must give up the ordeals of the past and forge new ties with those around her.
And, Bentley the sheriff who has to learn what it means to be communicative, and be in a serious relationship. He will,have to demonstrate that that he’s willing to do what it takes for the sake of love, coupled with the determination of letting down his guard and making the relationship with Belle work.
The only complaint I have about this novel is Bentley's hot and cold attitude, and the way he remains silent about himself, instead of opening up to his horrific childhood, although I understand why he was like that.
The story itself was also about his journey toward self-acceptance and healing his scars. I hate that he kept pushing Belle away when the numerous conflicts they face could have been resolved if he had just spoken up and told Belle his biggest fears.
If you love books that deal with political issues that are really important to be conscious; and if you are entertain by complex, morally ambiguous drama, check this one out.
I would certainly suggest that you get this book.
October 2, 2020
If I'm honest, I struggled writing this review, not because I didn't like the book, I did. No, I struggled because we're so close to this story. I struggled because I have family members who are black and I'm also come from a long line of military and law enforcement officers. I struggled because we still live in a world where stories like this still exist in real life.
This is not a book to read as a brief departure from our daily lives, no, this is a story ripped from the raw emotion of a racially tense country. I ran through so many emotions reading this book. I won't lie and say I wasn't put off at times by some of the generalizations Belle made or how annoyed I was when Bently shrugged something off but it also ripped my heart open, made me cry, made me giggle, made me swoon and most importantly, made me think. The characters were complex but felt familiar and the love story was fraught but beautiful. I was also reminded how much our past experiences have the power to inform our present but am ever hopeful knowing we have choices about our future.
This is not a book to read as a brief departure from our daily lives, no, this is a story ripped from the raw emotion of a racially tense country. I ran through so many emotions reading this book. I won't lie and say I wasn't put off at times by some of the generalizations Belle made or how annoyed I was when Bently shrugged something off but it also ripped my heart open, made me cry, made me giggle, made me swoon and most importantly, made me think. The characters were complex but felt familiar and the love story was fraught but beautiful. I was also reminded how much our past experiences have the power to inform our present but am ever hopeful knowing we have choices about our future.
October 4, 2020
Defying Gravity was my first read from A.M. Kusi but it will most definitely not be my last. This book is so relevant, so right now. Powerful. Moving. All-consuming. EVERYBODY needs to read it.
I loved and admired Belle. For all she had been through and all she still fought for everyday. Her life wasn't easy but she made it hers and battled a way into a better life for herself and her brother, TJ. She thought she was doing fine in her new job and neighborhood until Bently Evans came rolling up to her home.
To say the first time those two meet was explosive is an understatement. The sparks flew but disdain dripped from every word. But there was something about her fire that Bently couldn't get out of his head. She called to him. Made him want to know more. Show her that he was more than his badge.
I liked that their romance built over time. That Belle made him work for it. And at the same time she worked on unpacking her own preconceived notions about the man. But when an unknown threat arises, it was all Bently could do to keep Belle out of danger, even at the detriment of his own happiness.
I can honestly say I did not see the turn Defying Gravity would take. The last quarter of this book slayed me. It was hard and heavy reading. But I didn't stop. I couldn't. Because Belle and Bently didn't and couldn't. I want to give a loud standing ovation to A.M. Kusi for writing this book. Bently and Belle's slow-burning romance is filled with nuance and soul. It examines misconceptions, pain and compassion, grief and forgiveness. Acceptance. And most of all how love can help you heal even the deepest of sorrows.
I loved and admired Belle. For all she had been through and all she still fought for everyday. Her life wasn't easy but she made it hers and battled a way into a better life for herself and her brother, TJ. She thought she was doing fine in her new job and neighborhood until Bently Evans came rolling up to her home.
To say the first time those two meet was explosive is an understatement. The sparks flew but disdain dripped from every word. But there was something about her fire that Bently couldn't get out of his head. She called to him. Made him want to know more. Show her that he was more than his badge.
I liked that their romance built over time. That Belle made him work for it. And at the same time she worked on unpacking her own preconceived notions about the man. But when an unknown threat arises, it was all Bently could do to keep Belle out of danger, even at the detriment of his own happiness.
I can honestly say I did not see the turn Defying Gravity would take. The last quarter of this book slayed me. It was hard and heavy reading. But I didn't stop. I couldn't. Because Belle and Bently didn't and couldn't. I want to give a loud standing ovation to A.M. Kusi for writing this book. Bently and Belle's slow-burning romance is filled with nuance and soul. It examines misconceptions, pain and compassion, grief and forgiveness. Acceptance. And most of all how love can help you heal even the deepest of sorrows.
October 1, 2020
This is probably one of the most socially relevant books I have read in a long time. Dealing with the deaths of unarmed young black men and woman and the police officers and the establishment that supports them time and time again. It is such a sickness in our society that seems to only be getting worse as the country divides even more, although it is so hard to understand why something that seems so clearly wrong to me should divide this country when it should be bringing us together to fix it.
Okay enough with my personal opinion. This book was incredibly well written with amazing characters. It was thought provoking for me as a white woman thats for sure. First you have the interracial relationship and then on top of that you add the new layer of the man being a white cop.
I really like this series. It is unique, realistic and addresses the issues we are all facing today, add in some really great characters and compelling stories.
Okay enough with my personal opinion. This book was incredibly well written with amazing characters. It was thought provoking for me as a white woman thats for sure. First you have the interracial relationship and then on top of that you add the new layer of the man being a white cop.
I really like this series. It is unique, realistic and addresses the issues we are all facing today, add in some really great characters and compelling stories.
October 4, 2020
4.5 stars
If I'm honest, I struggled writing this review, not because I didn't like the book, I did. No, I struggled because we're so close to this story. I struggled because I have family members who are black and I also come from a long line of military and law enforcement officers. I struggled because we still live in a world where stories like this still exist in real life.
This is not a book to read as a brief departure from our daily lives, no, this is a story ripped from the raw emotion of a racially tense country. I ran through so many emotions reading this book. I won't lie and say I wasn't put off at times by some of the generalizations Belle made or how annoyed I was when Bently shrugged something off but it also ripped my heart open, made me cry, made me giggle, made me swoon and most importantly, made me think. The characters were complex but felt familiar and the love story was fraught but beautiful. I was also reminded how much our past experiences have the power to inform our present but am ever hopeful knowing we have choices about our future.
AnnMarie - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
September 30, 2020
*ARC provided by author and Wildfire Marketing Solutions in exchange for an honest review*
Defying Gravity is the story of Bentley and Belle. This book is incredibly relevant to the social climate in today's world. A.M. Kusi explores interracial relationships, racism, and privilege. Both Bentley and Belle have past traumas and experiences to work through and it was so heartwarming to see them work through everything to grow their relationship.
Defying Gravity will warm your heart and make you cry all at the same time. Although I loved the story, I did have a hard time with the writing style.
Defying Gravity is the story of Bentley and Belle. This book is incredibly relevant to the social climate in today's world. A.M. Kusi explores interracial relationships, racism, and privilege. Both Bentley and Belle have past traumas and experiences to work through and it was so heartwarming to see them work through everything to grow their relationship.
Defying Gravity will warm your heart and make you cry all at the same time. Although I loved the story, I did have a hard time with the writing style.
September 30, 2020
Wow, I'm sure I even have the words to explain just how great this book is. Besides the romance, this book offers heavy subject matters that are timely to what is going on in the real world. Things that make you cry and ache as you read them.
This story is about two broken people who have risen above their past but still let it taint the edges of their present. Sheriff Gently Evans is a tormented hero. Nurse Belle is a woman set on helping her brother get to college and never giving up her fighting spirit.
This story is about two broken people who have risen above their past but still let it taint the edges of their present. Sheriff Gently Evans is a tormented hero. Nurse Belle is a woman set on helping her brother get to college and never giving up her fighting spirit.
October 1, 2020
Heartache story that rings so true in today's times.
You won't be the same after reading this book. Very relevant story for our times.
This is my first Shattered Cove book and although it is a stand alone, I think I would have gotten more from the story reading from the beginning.
Belle and Bently do not have an easy time of it and this story is at times difficult to read. It is going to remain with you for days to come.
I voluntarily requested and read an advance reader copy.
You won't be the same after reading this book. Very relevant story for our times.
This is my first Shattered Cove book and although it is a stand alone, I think I would have gotten more from the story reading from the beginning.
Belle and Bently do not have an easy time of it and this story is at times difficult to read. It is going to remain with you for days to come.
I voluntarily requested and read an advance reader copy.
October 7, 2020
Another great add to this series. The author(s) are not afraid to take on relevant issues and yet still offer an emotional romance that will tug at your heart. this adds a level of realness to the story. Belle and Bently both have had hard lives growing up. It has made them both shy away from commitment. The attraction is strong Belle has some preconceived notions that she has to rethink about Bently. They must battle their insecurities along with outside judgement. Bently does not think he is deserving. He struggles with his past everyday. Belle is strong and her past has helped her deal with a lot of things. Together they are stronger.
September 29, 2020
This book, in one word, is amazing. I was intrigued by blurb and felt pulled to this book. This book gutted me and made me experience and feel things a book hasn't in a long time. Huge kudos to the author. Well written, brilliant storyline. This story will stick with you and I think everyone should read it. Definitely a must read!
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