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The Soul Feud
This enemies-to-lovers romantic comedy examines class and privilege as it pits a young woman who struggles to preserve the legacy of her family's soul food restaurant in a gentrifying city against a handsome businessman who is running from his past, resulting in a hard-fought and unlikely partnership. Will they be able to let go of their hatred for one another and overcome their differences?
Sometimes a bad first impression is only the beginning . . .
Having grown up watching her grandparents feed the residents of Columbia City, Raven believes running the Soul Food Cafe should be simple. But the neighborhood is gentrifying, and the forced migration of her customers leaves the restaurant in a dire situation. The stress has kept her so busy that Raven is completely blindsided when she comes home to find her fiancé has packed his bags. And what isn’t helping the problem? The handsome, wealthy businessman who has moved into the restaurant next door. It is people like him who are driving out the diversity in the neighborhood with their trendy homes and businesses. The cafe wouldn’t be struggling if people like him weren’t changing the neighborhood for the worse. So why are his sexy overtures so hard to resist?
Patrick Gaines is the oldest son of one of the wealthiest families in Seattle. But after a contentious breakup with his fiancée, he has decided to leave his world of finance and privilege behind. And since he has a passion for eating delicious things, what better way to branch out on his own than to open a high-end steakhouse called Cattle & Vine? But what he doesn’t anticipate is the combative greeting he receives from the restaurant owner next door, and resents being criticized for taking advantage of a lucrative business opportunity. So why can’t he control his desire for Raven’s tastes and talents?
One is oblivious to privilege, the other resistant to change. But together they will discover that some things are worth the fight. And the compromise.
NOTABLE STORY ELEMENTS
Alpha Male Lead, Alpha Female Lead, Enemies to Lovers, Flawed or Unlikeable Characters, Satire
CONTENT
Adult Language, Adult Situations
Reader's Discussion Guide Included.
Sometimes a bad first impression is only the beginning . . .
Having grown up watching her grandparents feed the residents of Columbia City, Raven believes running the Soul Food Cafe should be simple. But the neighborhood is gentrifying, and the forced migration of her customers leaves the restaurant in a dire situation. The stress has kept her so busy that Raven is completely blindsided when she comes home to find her fiancé has packed his bags. And what isn’t helping the problem? The handsome, wealthy businessman who has moved into the restaurant next door. It is people like him who are driving out the diversity in the neighborhood with their trendy homes and businesses. The cafe wouldn’t be struggling if people like him weren’t changing the neighborhood for the worse. So why are his sexy overtures so hard to resist?
Patrick Gaines is the oldest son of one of the wealthiest families in Seattle. But after a contentious breakup with his fiancée, he has decided to leave his world of finance and privilege behind. And since he has a passion for eating delicious things, what better way to branch out on his own than to open a high-end steakhouse called Cattle & Vine? But what he doesn’t anticipate is the combative greeting he receives from the restaurant owner next door, and resents being criticized for taking advantage of a lucrative business opportunity. So why can’t he control his desire for Raven’s tastes and talents?
One is oblivious to privilege, the other resistant to change. But together they will discover that some things are worth the fight. And the compromise.
NOTABLE STORY ELEMENTS
Alpha Male Lead, Alpha Female Lead, Enemies to Lovers, Flawed or Unlikeable Characters, Satire
CONTENT
Adult Language, Adult Situations
Reader's Discussion Guide Included.
373 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 27, 2023
91 people are currently reading
1510 people want to read
About the author
Juniper Jackson
1 book16 followersHey bookworms! I'm Juniper and The Soul Feud is my first contemporary romance novel.
I was inspired to write this story after watching the city of Seattle gentrify. At that time in my life, I was beyond angry. I'd be out at a bar and strike up a conversation with a stranger, only to have to bite my tongue after finding out they had moved from California to take a job at someplace like Amazon. There were so many moments where I wanted to scream, "Go back to where you came from! I grew up in the PNW and you're ruining my home!" I stewed in my anger (unlike Raven, who has no filter ;), until eventually I also had to leave the city to afford the life I wanted to live.
During my time in Seattle, I met a woman who was from an inner city neighborhood on the East Coast. She had talked about the changes that were happening in her former neighborhood. I assumed she felt the way I did, that gentrification was terrible and the people participating in it were terrible and something needed to be done! Instead, she said, "I'm really happy for my parents." I was like, "huh?" She looked at me and smiled. "Yeah. The neighborhood is safer. It's cleaner. I don't have to worry about them anymore, and the violence that used to be there. And they deserve that." I took a step back. I am not from the inner city. In a lot of ways, I've led a privileged life. So who was I to tell her she was wrong about her own lived experience? I've been chewing on what she'd said ever since.
I believe gentrification is an important issue. And I'll admit, I don't have the answers for how to fix it. I only know my lived experience. But the truth is, I've made friends with some of the people who have gentrified my home. I love them, and I'd be sad if they left.
The Soul Feud is a steamy romantic comedy and examines gentrification on a micro-level. It is about how this far-reaching societal issue impacts two individuals and their ability to understand and communicate with one another (yes, miscommunication, the resulting fear of being vulnerable and the avoidance of hard conversations are recurring themes). It's about one woman's struggle to hold onto everything she loves, one man's journey to accept his inadvertent role in that struggle, and the steps they both must take in order to better themselves and meet in the middle.
I wrote this book when my rage and my pain were at a breaking point, when the only healthy way for me to process them was to find a way to laugh again. Raven was the character I needed at that time. Her pain was my pain, and yet I didn’t want it to define her. I wanted to acknowledge it, but allow her to exist outside of it. Patrick was the character I needed to believe in at that time. I needed the hope that ignorance wasn't always evil or ill-willed, and could be changed for the better. And I knew from my own lived experience—it is possible to love the "enemy." I wanted to acknowledge his ignorance, and give him the grace to grow out of it.
I don't believe that when two characters get their happy ending, all the problems in the world are fixed. But I do believe change starts at the individual level. I believe in gray areas. I believe drawing lines only leads to more division. I believe in forgiveness. And I believe that if enough people can reach the point where Raven and Patrick end this story, we might all end up with a better, more loving world.
I was inspired to write this story after watching the city of Seattle gentrify. At that time in my life, I was beyond angry. I'd be out at a bar and strike up a conversation with a stranger, only to have to bite my tongue after finding out they had moved from California to take a job at someplace like Amazon. There were so many moments where I wanted to scream, "Go back to where you came from! I grew up in the PNW and you're ruining my home!" I stewed in my anger (unlike Raven, who has no filter ;), until eventually I also had to leave the city to afford the life I wanted to live.
During my time in Seattle, I met a woman who was from an inner city neighborhood on the East Coast. She had talked about the changes that were happening in her former neighborhood. I assumed she felt the way I did, that gentrification was terrible and the people participating in it were terrible and something needed to be done! Instead, she said, "I'm really happy for my parents." I was like, "huh?" She looked at me and smiled. "Yeah. The neighborhood is safer. It's cleaner. I don't have to worry about them anymore, and the violence that used to be there. And they deserve that." I took a step back. I am not from the inner city. In a lot of ways, I've led a privileged life. So who was I to tell her she was wrong about her own lived experience? I've been chewing on what she'd said ever since.
I believe gentrification is an important issue. And I'll admit, I don't have the answers for how to fix it. I only know my lived experience. But the truth is, I've made friends with some of the people who have gentrified my home. I love them, and I'd be sad if they left.
The Soul Feud is a steamy romantic comedy and examines gentrification on a micro-level. It is about how this far-reaching societal issue impacts two individuals and their ability to understand and communicate with one another (yes, miscommunication, the resulting fear of being vulnerable and the avoidance of hard conversations are recurring themes). It's about one woman's struggle to hold onto everything she loves, one man's journey to accept his inadvertent role in that struggle, and the steps they both must take in order to better themselves and meet in the middle.
I wrote this book when my rage and my pain were at a breaking point, when the only healthy way for me to process them was to find a way to laugh again. Raven was the character I needed at that time. Her pain was my pain, and yet I didn’t want it to define her. I wanted to acknowledge it, but allow her to exist outside of it. Patrick was the character I needed to believe in at that time. I needed the hope that ignorance wasn't always evil or ill-willed, and could be changed for the better. And I knew from my own lived experience—it is possible to love the "enemy." I wanted to acknowledge his ignorance, and give him the grace to grow out of it.
I don't believe that when two characters get their happy ending, all the problems in the world are fixed. But I do believe change starts at the individual level. I believe in gray areas. I believe drawing lines only leads to more division. I believe in forgiveness. And I believe that if enough people can reach the point where Raven and Patrick end this story, we might all end up with a better, more loving world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
January 26, 2023
I received this ARC through a giveaway on the StoryGraph.
I spent most of this book wondering how bad Raven's heat damage must be because, wow, a blow dryer AND a straightener? Without heat protectant?
This book was a buffet of the things I hate most in romance books: bad banter, unnatural dialogue, subpar smut, unnecessary miscommunication and misunderstandings and that weird "our love is the antidote to systemic issues, but it also isn't really because the problem persists but I fell in love with this guy and everything is fine in my life so the issue has ceased to exist as it no longer directly affects me" trope.
I really thought I would love "The Soul Feud" - I mean look at the title! Look at that description - but I really didn't. And nobody can blame me for not liking it. How could I, when * this* a quote from the actual book:
Here's another one:
And another (my favourite):
The book just didn't do it for me. I hated the characters. I didn't understand what was the point of the weird racism thing that permeated throughout the book - especially in Patrick's intial treatment of Raven. It's hard to root for a guy who uses multiple racist dogwhistles in his first interaction with his future love interest.
I hated the fact that the most of the book was spent saying that gentrification is bad, just for it to essentially say "well, actually..." at the end (you'll have to read the book to find out what I mean). That was really the icing on the cake and why I believe that (most) romance authors should leave social justice alone. (This is not because they shouldn't make meaningful commentary about the world we live in. It's because they never do it properly (from what I've observed)).
The plot was sometimes interesting, but most of the time underwhelming. The enemies to lovers trope was not delivered very well. The writing isn't my favourite - this isn't necessarily the author's fault. At the end of it, I didn't feel impassioned. I don't like it but I don't really hate it. I just am. I'm not sure if that's because the book isn't compelling or if it just sucked the life out of me.
Even so, there were a few cute moments between Raven and Patrick that I liked. I liked a bit of the writing - particularly the description of the surroundings as these were described quite well. I liked a few of the side characters (Rusty and Treonna were great).
This book definitely has a demographic. I'm just not a part of that demographic.
I think that, with practice and time, Jackson's writing will improve exponentially. The bones of a good book are here, the delivery just needs some work.
I spent most of this book wondering how bad Raven's heat damage must be because, wow, a blow dryer AND a straightener? Without heat protectant?
This book was a buffet of the things I hate most in romance books: bad banter, unnatural dialogue, subpar smut, unnecessary miscommunication and misunderstandings and that weird "our love is the antidote to systemic issues, but it also isn't really because the problem persists but I fell in love with this guy and everything is fine in my life so the issue has ceased to exist as it no longer directly affects me" trope.
I really thought I would love "The Soul Feud" - I mean look at the title! Look at that description - but I really didn't. And nobody can blame me for not liking it. How could I, when * this* a quote from the actual book:
Yep, so I guess that makes me the douche. Which I suppose could be a fitting nickname, considering how well I can clean the—”
Here's another one:
Not that botox is bad or anything. I wouldn't really know, though. Never had it, never will, cause Black don't crack, know what I'm saying!
And another (my favourite):
"Let me guess, you voted for Trump huh?" Raven took a step forward. "Oh you got jokes. You got them woke jokes.”
The book just didn't do it for me. I hated the characters. I didn't understand what was the point of the weird racism thing that permeated throughout the book - especially in Patrick's intial treatment of Raven. It's hard to root for a guy who uses multiple racist dogwhistles in his first interaction with his future love interest.
I hated the fact that the most of the book was spent saying that gentrification is bad, just for it to essentially say "well, actually..." at the end (you'll have to read the book to find out what I mean). That was really the icing on the cake and why I believe that (most) romance authors should leave social justice alone. (This is not because they shouldn't make meaningful commentary about the world we live in. It's because they never do it properly (from what I've observed)).
The plot was sometimes interesting, but most of the time underwhelming. The enemies to lovers trope was not delivered very well. The writing isn't my favourite - this isn't necessarily the author's fault. At the end of it, I didn't feel impassioned. I don't like it but I don't really hate it. I just am. I'm not sure if that's because the book isn't compelling or if it just sucked the life out of me.
Even so, there were a few cute moments between Raven and Patrick that I liked. I liked a bit of the writing - particularly the description of the surroundings as these were described quite well. I liked a few of the side characters (Rusty and Treonna were great).
This book definitely has a demographic. I'm just not a part of that demographic.
I think that, with practice and time, Jackson's writing will improve exponentially. The bones of a good book are here, the delivery just needs some work.
January 14, 2023
I received this ARC as part of a giveaway on The StoryGraph.
4 stars!
This was a cute and heartfelt story. I don't usually like enemies-to-lovers and most romances that are labelled as such really aren't, but this one had me hooked!
This book definitely tackled classism, racism and gentrification in a way that didn't overwhelm and take away from the story or romance. The pacing was was a little hit-and-miss at times, however.
I cried near the end omg...
Definitely a read you should pick up when released!
4 stars!
This was a cute and heartfelt story. I don't usually like enemies-to-lovers and most romances that are labelled as such really aren't, but this one had me hooked!
This book definitely tackled classism, racism and gentrification in a way that didn't overwhelm and take away from the story or romance. The pacing was was a little hit-and-miss at times, however.
I cried near the end omg...
Definitely a read you should pick up when released!
September 11, 2023
I received this ARC from a StoryGraph giveaway.
I almost stopped reading this as the whole arrogant asshole thing is not for me, at least not without serious growth and character development. It seemed like that would be the character we were getting. But, THEN, there was learning. And accountability! And growth! Slowly, but surely, I was pulled back in and became invested in how things were going to progress.
Neither of the main characters were perfect; they both certainly had their flaws and things to work on. The romance was great, but I think a big part of the reason why it was great is because of how the characters grew and improved; both on their own and together.
I almost stopped reading this as the whole arrogant asshole thing is not for me, at least not without serious growth and character development. It seemed like that would be the character we were getting. But, THEN, there was learning. And accountability! And growth! Slowly, but surely, I was pulled back in and became invested in how things were going to progress.
Neither of the main characters were perfect; they both certainly had their flaws and things to work on. The romance was great, but I think a big part of the reason why it was great is because of how the characters grew and improved; both on their own and together.
Did not finish
June 17, 2023DNF @ page 50.
This one was not for me. If you think the premise sounds interesting then definitely give it a try! I wasn’t enjoying either of our main characters right from the start so I will not be finishing.
.
.
.
As I did not finish the book, I will not be providing a star rating. Thank you Read Forever Publishers for providing a finished copy in exchange for my honest opinions.
This one was not for me. If you think the premise sounds interesting then definitely give it a try! I wasn’t enjoying either of our main characters right from the start so I will not be finishing.
.
.
.
As I did not finish the book, I will not be providing a star rating. Thank you Read Forever Publishers for providing a finished copy in exchange for my honest opinions.
May 28, 2023
Full review coming
• I did really enjoy this book but couldn’t give more than 3 stars bc…
• why did her restaurant have to be gentrified for her “happy ending”? I don’t she was actually happy with that
• I did really enjoy this book but couldn’t give more than 3 stars bc…
• why did her restaurant have to be gentrified for her “happy ending”? I don’t she was actually happy with that
August 2, 2023
Cute characters, interesting situations
November 11, 2022
A Clash of Cultures between two restauranteurs who share the same building leads to all sorts of misunderstandings, especially as one is keeping a crucial secret from the other.
Raven & Patrick are from very different backgrounds, and things get off to a very rocky start when Patrick moves into the empty space next door to Raven’s Soul Food Cafe, and opens a trendy restaurant catering to a wealthy clientele.
Despite their differences, they manage to get along together, to a small degree at least, but can their differences be overcome to allow them to co-exist in the same building?
This book was a slow starter for me until I got to know the characters, and then I was gripped. There were times when I wanted to slap one or both of them to knock some sense into them, and at other times was rooting for them as their relationship seemed to be turning a corner.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, which was well written, as well as well plotted, and the bonus for me was discovering an author, new to me, who I will be looking out for in the future.
I received an Advance Review Copy of this book,and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
Raven & Patrick are from very different backgrounds, and things get off to a very rocky start when Patrick moves into the empty space next door to Raven’s Soul Food Cafe, and opens a trendy restaurant catering to a wealthy clientele.
Despite their differences, they manage to get along together, to a small degree at least, but can their differences be overcome to allow them to co-exist in the same building?
This book was a slow starter for me until I got to know the characters, and then I was gripped. There were times when I wanted to slap one or both of them to knock some sense into them, and at other times was rooting for them as their relationship seemed to be turning a corner.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, which was well written, as well as well plotted, and the bonus for me was discovering an author, new to me, who I will be looking out for in the future.
I received an Advance Review Copy of this book,and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
July 17, 2023
Usually I'm a fan of enemies to lovers and especially when they're chefs, but this book was too much for me. I didn't like the main characters at all; both of them had traits that were over-amplified for the plot. By the end of the book, they were tolerable, but not enough for me to like them. The banter was also overdone and just felt strangely off.
Thanks to Booksprout for a copy of this book.
Thanks to Booksprout for a copy of this book.
September 15, 2023
Not sure why others thought this was a bad read. I enjoyed it a lot more than I expected, even caught myself either smiling or actually laughing. Maybe I can relate to this story more than others could.
Did not finish
March 9, 2023DNF at 30%. It was not a pleasant read to that point. Other reviewers said the last half was better, but who has time to read books that are only half good? Not me.
September 2, 2023
3,25☆ The constant bickering and snarky attitude of the main characters was a bit too much for me to consider it sexy banter, but the story was cute overall.
September 16, 2023
Awww 🥰…. This was very good! so glad I stumbled upon this gem.
Wow 🤩… first time reading this author and I was so not disappointed at all. I am definitely going to try to read more of this author’s work.
Besides being my favorite genre/tropes to read (bwwm~black woman white male), I truly loved MS. Jackson’s penmanship and wording with the interracial pairing while enlightening us, the readers on such differences and difficulties in today’s society. Phenomenal!!!!
Raven and Patrick were something else. I liked Patrick more so than Raven because after a while sis was just too much. Too annoying, judgemental, and just too “stupid “ (most times). Patrick on the other hand was so sensitive and sentimental and so real and down to earth with his ignorance and oblivious persona. It was a cute story albeit a little bit too long and just too much with their pride and stubbornness (more Raven than Patrick) but still enjoyable.
But I must say that Wilson was so endearing and good as well as Tim while Rusty, Marquise, and Trey were the bomb. I love what happened to Sarah and was very disappointed that we didn’t get too much info and interaction with the mother, and brothers.
In any case I am so glad that I found this author and hope that I continue to stumble on amazing authors such as MS. Jackson…. Get this book, you won’t be disappointed.
Wow 🤩… first time reading this author and I was so not disappointed at all. I am definitely going to try to read more of this author’s work.
Besides being my favorite genre/tropes to read (bwwm~black woman white male), I truly loved MS. Jackson’s penmanship and wording with the interracial pairing while enlightening us, the readers on such differences and difficulties in today’s society. Phenomenal!!!!
Raven and Patrick were something else. I liked Patrick more so than Raven because after a while sis was just too much. Too annoying, judgemental, and just too “stupid “ (most times). Patrick on the other hand was so sensitive and sentimental and so real and down to earth with his ignorance and oblivious persona. It was a cute story albeit a little bit too long and just too much with their pride and stubbornness (more Raven than Patrick) but still enjoyable.
But I must say that Wilson was so endearing and good as well as Tim while Rusty, Marquise, and Trey were the bomb. I love what happened to Sarah and was very disappointed that we didn’t get too much info and interaction with the mother, and brothers.
In any case I am so glad that I found this author and hope that I continue to stumble on amazing authors such as MS. Jackson…. Get this book, you won’t be disappointed.
July 19, 2023
I received an ARC for an honest review
4.5 stars!
This is a cute, lighthearted story about class and privilege, and two characters overcoming their initial prejudices to discover the best in one another. And after reading some of the criticism for this book I have to say--we've reached a strange place in the quest for "progress" and "diversity" to be criticizing the way authors from marginalized communities write about their own community and experiences (cough* especially when it's being done by people who claim to understand their privilege *cough:) Because how inclusive can we be if we're not allowed to acknowledge cultural differences? As a black woman, I related to Raven so much (so I guess that makes me a stereotype?). Her anger comes from a real place - she's lost the last member of her immediate family and is watching what is left of her memories fade away due to the changes in her neighborhood. She feels powerless and alone in an unjust world. I appreciate that Jackson didn't shy away from the fact that Black people are multifaceted (imperfect personality traits included). While our anger doesn't define us, it also shouldn't be glossed over to placate whatever cultural "ideal" is popular at the moment, especially when it's justified. I fear that in our efforts to be "politically correct" we're erasing the very voices we claim to be trying to amplify, and I appreciated Raven's character for representing experiences that I can relate to (anger included, because come on now--as much as we celebrate outspoken women today, the idea that Raven's outspokenness can only be a stereotype only confirms racial bias). If you're unable to see Raven as an imperfect individual first, and a Black woman second, then you still don't get it.
And I've encountered many people like Patrick, people who mean well but who need a little bit of help to "get it" simply because they've grown up in a bubble. The book describes Patrick as "oblivious to privilege" and it wasn't lying--that's exactly who he is at the beginning (because what else can you expect from someone who grew up with generational wealth? Anyone seen Succession?), and it's endearing watching him try to change for the better while trying to admit that in his own way, he's been hurt just as much as Raven has (albeit differently) by the cold and calculated world he comes from. While he doesn't always do or say the right thing, his heart is in the right place, and he offers Raven a support system without treating her like a helpless victim. If you're unable to see Patrick as an imperfect individual first, and a privileged white guy second, then you still don't get it.
I loved seeing Raven learn how to process her frustration in a more productive way by adapting instead of digging her heels in, and I loved watching Patrick get over his sensitivity to criticism and fear of commitment (which is totally understandable when you meet his father) and realize that his privilege gives him a certain moral obligation to the community he's come to love, one that requires him to sacrifice his own comfort. But hey, I'm biased because I'm a sucker for real enemies-to-lovers stories (I mean, for the times, Mr. Darcy basically said Ms. Bennet was too ugly and poor for him to be into, and yet we rooted for him, no? How satisfying was it when we learned the real root of his coldness? And they basically dissed on one another until the end of the book). The way this book is structured, I can only assume that Jackson wants the reader to acknowledge their own bias in tandem with the characters as they slowly get to know each other on a deeper level.
Anyway, this is a longer review for me, but since it was an ARC I wanted to do it justice. And felt the need to vent after seeing backlash over certain books - it feels like the reading community has become more focused on how an author delivers the message rather than the message itself (ie, I don't agree with how you said domestic violence is bad). If you don't like something, so be it, but let's give our characters the freedom to be human at least and authors the ability to write what they know!
I adored this book and want it to be able to find it's readers, so here are my recommendations:
If you need your characters to be 100% likable for the entire book and don't see the humor in well-placed insults or ignorant comments from people who are going through challenging times, but who ultimately mean well (or who are supposed to be comically awful. Anyone see Schitt's Creek?), then this book is not for you. If you expect your protagonists to be nice to each other in the beginning of an enemies-to-lovers romance, or to secretly like each other the whole time and have very little conflict, then this book is not for you. If you don't like the "there's more than meets the eye to this jerk/grumpy character so I'm rooting for their happiness" story arc, then this book is not for you. If you think people who say offensive things unintentionally (and who apologize when it's made apparent to them and try to do better) never deserve forgiveness, then this book is not for you. If you're looking for a book that addresses the entirety of gentrification and everyone it impacts, there are other serious books out there, and this book is not for you (I mean, come on. It's a romantic comedy about two characters overcoming their differences, of course the resolution is going to be focused on them!). If you believe it's acceptable to police the way authors from marginalized communities write about their marginalization, then this book is not for you.
If you like books where characters struggle and push each other to learn from their mistakes, ignorance and prejudgments to become stronger people by the end, and are in the mood for playful, comical and lighter fare (and steamy, can't forget the steam!), then this could very much be your cup of tea.
The Soul Feud is the perfect combination of a steamy romcom beach read and a realistic message for how we can all learn to be a little more understanding and forgiving of one another, even after we've made mistakes.
4.5 stars!
This is a cute, lighthearted story about class and privilege, and two characters overcoming their initial prejudices to discover the best in one another. And after reading some of the criticism for this book I have to say--we've reached a strange place in the quest for "progress" and "diversity" to be criticizing the way authors from marginalized communities write about their own community and experiences (cough* especially when it's being done by people who claim to understand their privilege *cough:) Because how inclusive can we be if we're not allowed to acknowledge cultural differences? As a black woman, I related to Raven so much (so I guess that makes me a stereotype?). Her anger comes from a real place - she's lost the last member of her immediate family and is watching what is left of her memories fade away due to the changes in her neighborhood. She feels powerless and alone in an unjust world. I appreciate that Jackson didn't shy away from the fact that Black people are multifaceted (imperfect personality traits included). While our anger doesn't define us, it also shouldn't be glossed over to placate whatever cultural "ideal" is popular at the moment, especially when it's justified. I fear that in our efforts to be "politically correct" we're erasing the very voices we claim to be trying to amplify, and I appreciated Raven's character for representing experiences that I can relate to (anger included, because come on now--as much as we celebrate outspoken women today, the idea that Raven's outspokenness can only be a stereotype only confirms racial bias). If you're unable to see Raven as an imperfect individual first, and a Black woman second, then you still don't get it.
And I've encountered many people like Patrick, people who mean well but who need a little bit of help to "get it" simply because they've grown up in a bubble. The book describes Patrick as "oblivious to privilege" and it wasn't lying--that's exactly who he is at the beginning (because what else can you expect from someone who grew up with generational wealth? Anyone seen Succession?), and it's endearing watching him try to change for the better while trying to admit that in his own way, he's been hurt just as much as Raven has (albeit differently) by the cold and calculated world he comes from. While he doesn't always do or say the right thing, his heart is in the right place, and he offers Raven a support system without treating her like a helpless victim. If you're unable to see Patrick as an imperfect individual first, and a privileged white guy second, then you still don't get it.
I loved seeing Raven learn how to process her frustration in a more productive way by adapting instead of digging her heels in, and I loved watching Patrick get over his sensitivity to criticism and fear of commitment (which is totally understandable when you meet his father) and realize that his privilege gives him a certain moral obligation to the community he's come to love, one that requires him to sacrifice his own comfort. But hey, I'm biased because I'm a sucker for real enemies-to-lovers stories (I mean, for the times, Mr. Darcy basically said Ms. Bennet was too ugly and poor for him to be into, and yet we rooted for him, no? How satisfying was it when we learned the real root of his coldness? And they basically dissed on one another until the end of the book). The way this book is structured, I can only assume that Jackson wants the reader to acknowledge their own bias in tandem with the characters as they slowly get to know each other on a deeper level.
Anyway, this is a longer review for me, but since it was an ARC I wanted to do it justice. And felt the need to vent after seeing backlash over certain books - it feels like the reading community has become more focused on how an author delivers the message rather than the message itself (ie, I don't agree with how you said domestic violence is bad). If you don't like something, so be it, but let's give our characters the freedom to be human at least and authors the ability to write what they know!
I adored this book and want it to be able to find it's readers, so here are my recommendations:
If you need your characters to be 100% likable for the entire book and don't see the humor in well-placed insults or ignorant comments from people who are going through challenging times, but who ultimately mean well (or who are supposed to be comically awful. Anyone see Schitt's Creek?), then this book is not for you. If you expect your protagonists to be nice to each other in the beginning of an enemies-to-lovers romance, or to secretly like each other the whole time and have very little conflict, then this book is not for you. If you don't like the "there's more than meets the eye to this jerk/grumpy character so I'm rooting for their happiness" story arc, then this book is not for you. If you think people who say offensive things unintentionally (and who apologize when it's made apparent to them and try to do better) never deserve forgiveness, then this book is not for you. If you're looking for a book that addresses the entirety of gentrification and everyone it impacts, there are other serious books out there, and this book is not for you (I mean, come on. It's a romantic comedy about two characters overcoming their differences, of course the resolution is going to be focused on them!). If you believe it's acceptable to police the way authors from marginalized communities write about their marginalization, then this book is not for you.
If you like books where characters struggle and push each other to learn from their mistakes, ignorance and prejudgments to become stronger people by the end, and are in the mood for playful, comical and lighter fare (and steamy, can't forget the steam!), then this could very much be your cup of tea.
The Soul Feud is the perfect combination of a steamy romcom beach read and a realistic message for how we can all learn to be a little more understanding and forgiving of one another, even after we've made mistakes.
June 24, 2023
'The Soul Feud' was entertaining. Moreover, its mesmerizing page-turning plot was filled with mistrust, stereotypes, gentrification, coming to terms with the past, family dynamics, class, privilege, hilarity, community, and love. Although Raven and Patrick, the protagonists, got off to a rocky start, they were soul mates and gushed with chemistry. I loved the witty comebacks such as the one Raven made after another character told her she was smooth after she had bumped into a waiter and caused a chain reaction to occur, "Yeah, I'm about as smooth as the transition from your neck to your botox."
Additionally, I loved the figurative language the author used, such as, "Raven rolled her eyes so hard she thought they would pop out and fall at Sarah’s feet."
Finally, I loved the author's writing style: engaging and believable characters, acerbic dialogue (with a hip-hop vibe), vivid descriptions which incorporated figurative language and imagery, and an awesome and humorous storyline which held my interest throughout. Overall, I thoroughly liked the captivating narrative.
I received a copy for free and am voluntarily giving my honest review.
Additionally, I loved the figurative language the author used, such as, "Raven rolled her eyes so hard she thought they would pop out and fall at Sarah’s feet."
Finally, I loved the author's writing style: engaging and believable characters, acerbic dialogue (with a hip-hop vibe), vivid descriptions which incorporated figurative language and imagery, and an awesome and humorous storyline which held my interest throughout. Overall, I thoroughly liked the captivating narrative.
I received a copy for free and am voluntarily giving my honest review.
June 28, 2023
An absolutely delightful story! Loved the character growth, subtle changes, and hard truths. The chemistry between Raven and Patrick was solid, and the supporting characters all added their own strength to the plot.
I enjoyed the juxtaposition of White vs. Black, rich ignorant outsider vs. hardworking longtime resident, change vs. sameness. Gentrification of a neighborhood will always displace a community and way of life, and Jackson did a wonderful job showing a deeper, emotional side, and the toll on residents and how they are forced to adjust.
Raven’s stubbornness showcases the discomfort of someone forced to watch her life as she knows it slowly fall away, and it was easy to sympathize with how she reacts. Patrick, although coming across as ignorant, is simply oblivious to the effects of the change. His shift in behavior and understanding is refreshing to witness. This is definitely worth the read.
I won this in a Goodreads Giveaway.
I enjoyed the juxtaposition of White vs. Black, rich ignorant outsider vs. hardworking longtime resident, change vs. sameness. Gentrification of a neighborhood will always displace a community and way of life, and Jackson did a wonderful job showing a deeper, emotional side, and the toll on residents and how they are forced to adjust.
Raven’s stubbornness showcases the discomfort of someone forced to watch her life as she knows it slowly fall away, and it was easy to sympathize with how she reacts. Patrick, although coming across as ignorant, is simply oblivious to the effects of the change. His shift in behavior and understanding is refreshing to witness. This is definitely worth the read.
I won this in a Goodreads Giveaway.
June 20, 2023
True Opposites in Every Way Tackle Love and Restaurant Wars?
This book was well written and easy to read even though it took on the difficult subjects of racism, classism and gentrification. In addition, to being opposite races and classes, Raven came from a loving and caring family and although Patrick had vast wealth and financial support, he had virtually no emotional support - or worse a huge difference. But their attraction was obvious, and they both grew and learned from each other during the story. I also loved the characters of Raven's supportive "adopted family" and friends. And the food descriptions just made me hungry for Soul Food! I am hoping to see more from this author. Enjoy!
This book was well written and easy to read even though it took on the difficult subjects of racism, classism and gentrification. In addition, to being opposite races and classes, Raven came from a loving and caring family and although Patrick had vast wealth and financial support, he had virtually no emotional support - or worse a huge difference. But their attraction was obvious, and they both grew and learned from each other during the story. I also loved the characters of Raven's supportive "adopted family" and friends. And the food descriptions just made me hungry for Soul Food! I am hoping to see more from this author. Enjoy!
June 21, 2023
The Soul Feud is a not to be missed AWESOME read that delivers a perfect Contemporary Romance which captures the flavors of love, family, and community as its two lead protagonists Raven and Patrick, who will soon become business competitors fill a story with witty dialogue, their personal vulnerabilities, scintillating comedic moments and a cast of supporting characters who oft times will steal the show.
Written with style and energy while infusing plenty of emotion into the narrative I was kept fully engaged with their story and its outcome as two characters I will always adore garnered a few happy tears when I arrived at the end of a story so very well told.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Written with style and energy while infusing plenty of emotion into the narrative I was kept fully engaged with their story and its outcome as two characters I will always adore garnered a few happy tears when I arrived at the end of a story so very well told.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 17, 2023
I was hoping it wasn't as bad as a lot of the reviews said it was, but unfortunately it was to me. The only good thing about the book was that it highlighted gentrification. It felt as if it was written by a non black woman cos playing as a black woman. I was mortified while reading. A majority of the conversations were extremely racist and very cringe. It also personally felt as if every bad stereotype about black women was included in this story. And if I was the type to DNF a book, I would have done it with this one. I highly doubt I'd read anything else from this author. I normally like friends to lovers, but this one was personally just bad.
I recieved a copy of the book via Hidden Gems and am voluntarily leaving an honest review of my own thoughts and opinions.
I recieved a copy of the book via Hidden Gems and am voluntarily leaving an honest review of my own thoughts and opinions.
June 28, 2023
Talk about polar opposites attracting. A cute enemies to lovers romance. Their competing restaurants are next door to each other as well as their houses. She’s stuck in the past and he’s trying to succeed on his own without his family legacy as eldest male heir. The struggles of color seemed real to me as well as the tone. Found well written believable without being too over the top. She’s got a chip on her shoulder that maybe he can help her remove and adapt a little to changing neighborhood and times. *I was given an advance reader copy via BookSirens and am voluntarily giving my honest review.
June 30, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Raven is struggling with making ends meet with her restaurant she inherited from her grandparents. It doesn't help when the neighbourhood is changing. Patrick Gaines has recently left is office job to follow his passion and open a restaurant right next to Raven's.
When Raven and Patrick meet, sparks fly and not in a good way. They seem to be at odds with one another until they find some common ground with all things - food.
I recommend this book to those who love the enemy to lovers trope with gentrification as a forefront topic. Other topics explored includes racism and classism.
Raven is struggling with making ends meet with her restaurant she inherited from her grandparents. It doesn't help when the neighbourhood is changing. Patrick Gaines has recently left is office job to follow his passion and open a restaurant right next to Raven's.
When Raven and Patrick meet, sparks fly and not in a good way. They seem to be at odds with one another until they find some common ground with all things - food.
I recommend this book to those who love the enemy to lovers trope with gentrification as a forefront topic. Other topics explored includes racism and classism.
July 2, 2023
Great read
Loved the H and h. The characters were good and well rounded. The B though rich and from a different background was likeable. It was good to get a look of what made the Dad the way he was. What he did by telling H that he offered h money and she turned it down showed he loved his son deep down loved the energy between the friendship groups. Was disappointed though that H best friend not at the proposal, which is something a best friend would be included in seeing that h's best friends were.
Loved the H and h. The characters were good and well rounded. The B though rich and from a different background was likeable. It was good to get a look of what made the Dad the way he was. What he did by telling H that he offered h money and she turned it down showed he loved his son deep down loved the energy between the friendship groups. Was disappointed though that H best friend not at the proposal, which is something a best friend would be included in seeing that h's best friends were.
June 7, 2024
i cried…so…so much
I really related to Rayven being that i grew up with grandparents and my grandfather passed. I loved them both very much. My grandma still kicking but this book really made miss her food. I spent the last half of the book basically weeping lol. I always judge books based on how they make me feel. The writing was great all the elements of a great story were there and came together to give me the best emotional response. I really enjoyed it. This book was soul food
I really related to Rayven being that i grew up with grandparents and my grandfather passed. I loved them both very much. My grandma still kicking but this book really made miss her food. I spent the last half of the book basically weeping lol. I always judge books based on how they make me feel. The writing was great all the elements of a great story were there and came together to give me the best emotional response. I really enjoyed it. This book was soul food
June 28, 2023
Ok guys, while I didn't hate this book, I didn't love it either. I honestly considered DNFing the book, but decided to stick it out in hopes it would get better. In my opinion, it did not. I really did not care for the characters, especially Patrick. I thought he was weird and creepy to say the least. I also did not care for the racism implications. That really turned me off from this book. Overall, not impressed.
July 27, 2023
Soul Feud is Food For the Soul
This story had it all; drama, humor, & an educational element.
The relationship between Raven & Patrick & the members of their diverse communities were intricate & simple.
Juniper Jackson weaves a very distinctive and unique style in their writing. I loved how Raven’s natural self played with & against Patrick’s natural self. I highly recommend this book, it’s down to earth with some spiciness.
This story had it all; drama, humor, & an educational element.
The relationship between Raven & Patrick & the members of their diverse communities were intricate & simple.
Juniper Jackson weaves a very distinctive and unique style in their writing. I loved how Raven’s natural self played with & against Patrick’s natural self. I highly recommend this book, it’s down to earth with some spiciness.
August 20, 2023
*2.75 stars*
**I won this eARC as a part of a StoryGraph giveaway hosted by the author, Juniper Jackson. Thank you to any and all parties involved for sending this book my way!**
This was not a bad story by any means, but I was having a hard time staying interested, especially for the first 30% of the book. After that first chunk, though, it did pick up a bit, and I was getting more interested in the storyline/their romance. Overall, it was a good romance; it just was not entirely for me.
**I won this eARC as a part of a StoryGraph giveaway hosted by the author, Juniper Jackson. Thank you to any and all parties involved for sending this book my way!**
This was not a bad story by any means, but I was having a hard time staying interested, especially for the first 30% of the book. After that first chunk, though, it did pick up a bit, and I was getting more interested in the storyline/their romance. Overall, it was a good romance; it just was not entirely for me.
December 9, 2023
Honestly the book was ok for me PERSONALLY. It wasn’t all that for me. I felt like the book took forever for the MC and LI to figure out what they wanted together. And I also just felt like the pace was slow too that I started to skim over words because it was like not necessary to read. IN MY OPINION :)
April 6, 2024
I rated this book a 4/5 ⭐️
I could have done without the spice level in the book but the storyline, the characters, the talking about issues of gentrification and the way the LAST chapter from start to finish played out (I was getting worried with how much was left of the story)…the last chapter is why I gave this 4/5 stars. 🥲
I could have done without the spice level in the book but the storyline, the characters, the talking about issues of gentrification and the way the LAST chapter from start to finish played out (I was getting worried with how much was left of the story)…the last chapter is why I gave this 4/5 stars. 🥲
February 13, 2025
It starts off really great and I couldn’t put it down. Then things became a little irritating for me . I still pushed through and finished it . Overall it’s a pretty decent read . At times Raven was overly combative and other times Patrick seemed way too oblivious and never defended her when he needed to.
July 13, 2023
I just wasn't into the characters and the writing style.
It was a cute premise and I feel like it had so much potential but it just didn't do it for me.
I received this ARC as part of a giveaway on The StoryGraph.
It was a cute premise and I feel like it had so much potential but it just didn't do it for me.
I received this ARC as part of a giveaway on The StoryGraph.
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