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Devout #1
Devout
Have you ever loved someone so much that it hurt? I have. Have you ever cherished the pain because you knew the kind you d face without them would be way too unbearable? That s me. To young Neeka Perry, Denny is one thing. In the streets, he s a whole other entity. But she was brave enough to love both sides, upside down, all around, and back again. He provided her with all a girl could believe she dreamed of security, desire, and most enviably, genuine love, all wrapped up in gold and diamonds. He removed her far from the course of her ordinary college girl lifestyle and swept her into his world of whimsical madness. For this and more, her love went beyond loyalty. She was devout... devout to him. But is there a such thing as too much passion? Can you love someone too much? And when you realize the person you love and the person everyone fears can also be the one everyone loves and you can one day soon fear, who will save you? Especially when the person you need saving from, is yourself...? Stop right there. I don t want to be saved. I ve shackled myself to him with love. And I swallowed the key. I m in this for the long run. I am devout.
377 pages, Paperback
First published December 23, 2014
658 people are currently reading
1067 people want to read
About the author
Takerra Allen
33 books733 followersTakerra Allen was born in Jersey City, NJ and resides in Somerset, NJ. In addition to being an author, the 25 year old is the CEO of an all female Entertainment Company entitled Heaven Inc., and the half sister to the late renowned Tupac Shakur (sharing the same biological father, former Black Panther, William Garland).
Takerra and her business partner of Heaven Inc., have launched Angelic Script Publishing to give new edgy writers a chance to demonstrate their talent and to give readers and lovers of Contemporary Fiction, new and exciting books to fall in love with. Writing continues to be Takerra's first love however, and her work has been appraised by many veteran African-American writers.
Her first novel, Thicker Than Water, has become an underground success making it's way into mainstream recognition. Look forward to more works and projects from Takerra!
Takerra and her business partner of Heaven Inc., have launched Angelic Script Publishing to give new edgy writers a chance to demonstrate their talent and to give readers and lovers of Contemporary Fiction, new and exciting books to fall in love with. Writing continues to be Takerra's first love however, and her work has been appraised by many veteran African-American writers.
Her first novel, Thicker Than Water, has become an underground success making it's way into mainstream recognition. Look forward to more works and projects from Takerra!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 330 reviews
October 2, 2023
Imagine a love so intense, so potent that you feel like you’re floating in outer space. A love so fierce that the thought of living without the other person literally stops your heart. A soul stirring love so captivating that it drives you crazy at the thought of it no longer existing.
But what happens when you love a person too much?! Do you love them enough to let them go because that live has gotten to such and extreme level that it’s no longer healthy?
Hearts beating in sync, the oxygen keeping each other alive, shared hearts, minds, bodies and souls. Denny and Neeka have given love a new meaning and I pray I never love anyone as much as these two love each other.
As one of the biggest crime bosses in the city of Newark, Denny’s name rang bells as far as the city limits and beyond. Men and women alike would give anything to be in his presence and simply touch the hem of his garments as if he was Jesus himself. With and endless supply of women at his disposal, his world came to a complete stop when his greatest obsession, what would later be his biggest addiction crossed his path!
Neeka was green when it came to Denny’s world. At the time she was new to the city and wanted to focus on school and navigating life outside of her fathers home. When Denny initially approached her and she turned him down, she had no idea that she’d later become the envy of every woman near and far and his greatest desire all at the same time!
When I tell y’all this was one of THEE most riveting, unexpected, heart stopping love stories I’ve read!!!!!! I meannnnnnnnn one of the BEST!!!! TA was not playing when she gave us this story and if I never read anything else in life I’m glad this one is officially apart of my memory! This was a unique story like no other and I couldn’t have began to imagine the twist and turns the story would take.
I know I recommend a lot of books and keep your TBRs full but you SERIOUSLY need to prioritize reading this series IMMEDIATELY!!! It’s like nothing I’ve ever read before. You won’t regret it!! If I could give this 10 stars I would!
But what happens when you love a person too much?! Do you love them enough to let them go because that live has gotten to such and extreme level that it’s no longer healthy?
Hearts beating in sync, the oxygen keeping each other alive, shared hearts, minds, bodies and souls. Denny and Neeka have given love a new meaning and I pray I never love anyone as much as these two love each other.
As one of the biggest crime bosses in the city of Newark, Denny’s name rang bells as far as the city limits and beyond. Men and women alike would give anything to be in his presence and simply touch the hem of his garments as if he was Jesus himself. With and endless supply of women at his disposal, his world came to a complete stop when his greatest obsession, what would later be his biggest addiction crossed his path!
Neeka was green when it came to Denny’s world. At the time she was new to the city and wanted to focus on school and navigating life outside of her fathers home. When Denny initially approached her and she turned him down, she had no idea that she’d later become the envy of every woman near and far and his greatest desire all at the same time!
When I tell y’all this was one of THEE most riveting, unexpected, heart stopping love stories I’ve read!!!!!! I meannnnnnnnn one of the BEST!!!! TA was not playing when she gave us this story and if I never read anything else in life I’m glad this one is officially apart of my memory! This was a unique story like no other and I couldn’t have began to imagine the twist and turns the story would take.
I know I recommend a lot of books and keep your TBRs full but you SERIOUSLY need to prioritize reading this series IMMEDIATELY!!! It’s like nothing I’ve ever read before. You won’t regret it!! If I could give this 10 stars I would!
October 8, 2023
Listen, if Rashawnda recommends a book, you had better pick it up and read it. While her review is better than mine, I think we can all agree that true love causes its possessors to lose themselves in the other. As long as they are content together, the safety of anybody else around them is irrelevant. Drug lord Denny sees Neeka one day and knows instantly that she is his lifeline. Because of her youth and naiveté, Neeka is unprepared for the adult world in which Denny now finds herself. I was a little put off by her calling Denny "Daddy," but after seeing how their relationship developed, I could see why she did it. It's a unique love story, and I believe your appreciation for the characters' love grows as you learn more about the reasons behind it. The true issue is whether or not they are capable of enduring such an unhealthy love.
Read
May 12, 2024*Spoiler*
WOW….his ass was crazy for real!
WOW….his ass was crazy for real!
December 16, 2024
2nd read 🎧:
Denny.
“I blew a kiss back..”
These two are still perfect for each other 🖤
This couple is not for everybody. Their love is so obsessive and explosive - but it’s theirs.
————————
So..wow. I don’t even know what to say.
When I started this book, I can’t lie, I was really put off by how young Neeka was compared to Denny. She was so young, naive, and felt like no one cared about her. Until Denny. He was 27 and Neek became his addiction. He was literally obsessed with her…and she liked it. She was crazy about him in her own ways as well. She lost herself in him - a young girl in a very adult relationship.
As you keep reading..you start noticing these things about Denny. Neeka’s meeting with his mother gave us insight and just..wow.
In the end, I was proud of Denny for taking the steps he did to be healthy and I was proud of Neeka for getting back to herself - doing the things she loved before Denny.
I’m interested to see how this plays out…
This book jumps from past to present from chapter to chapter. I was still very engaged.
Denny.
“I blew a kiss back..”
These two are still perfect for each other 🖤
This couple is not for everybody. Their love is so obsessive and explosive - but it’s theirs.
————————
So..wow. I don’t even know what to say.
When I started this book, I can’t lie, I was really put off by how young Neeka was compared to Denny. She was so young, naive, and felt like no one cared about her. Until Denny. He was 27 and Neek became his addiction. He was literally obsessed with her…and she liked it. She was crazy about him in her own ways as well. She lost herself in him - a young girl in a very adult relationship.
As you keep reading..you start noticing these things about Denny. Neeka’s meeting with his mother gave us insight and just..wow.
In the end, I was proud of Denny for taking the steps he did to be healthy and I was proud of Neeka for getting back to herself - doing the things she loved before Denny.
I’m interested to see how this plays out…
This book jumps from past to present from chapter to chapter. I was still very engaged.
November 12, 2023
Neeka x Denny
I loved this book.
Denny ran the streets. He was one of the biggest drug lords in the city…maybe the entire state of NJ. His name carries major weight. He’s feared by most, and he’s well respected and desired by all. Men and women. Denny met Neeka, and he was immediately smitten. The way these two were with one another, I don’t think “smitten” is the right word. More like obsessed, infatuated, crazy with one another. Neeka was young, learning to live in the real world for the first time away from home. After some pushback, she finally gave Denny a chance, and the ride after was wild. Denny became her entire all, and she, his. She lost herself in that man. Their love was toxic, unhealthy, and CRAZY af… He was crazy.
I didn't know it was possible to love somebody like that. If it's possible, I pray I never do.
I will say the story started a little slow for me. But I would gladly do it all over again cause the story was that good. Wasn’t a fan of the jump from past to present, but it was crucial to the story.
The author did a FANTASTIC job with this one. The story and character development were INCREDIBLE. I was hesitant to read this cause it’s 9 years old, and the author was NTM. But, my book friend recommended this and, as always... well done, friend. Well done with this rec.
S/O to Rashawnda.
Read this book, y'all. Super recommend!!
I loved this book.
Denny ran the streets. He was one of the biggest drug lords in the city…maybe the entire state of NJ. His name carries major weight. He’s feared by most, and he’s well respected and desired by all. Men and women. Denny met Neeka, and he was immediately smitten. The way these two were with one another, I don’t think “smitten” is the right word. More like obsessed, infatuated, crazy with one another. Neeka was young, learning to live in the real world for the first time away from home. After some pushback, she finally gave Denny a chance, and the ride after was wild. Denny became her entire all, and she, his. She lost herself in that man. Their love was toxic, unhealthy, and CRAZY af… He was crazy.
I didn't know it was possible to love somebody like that. If it's possible, I pray I never do.
I will say the story started a little slow for me. But I would gladly do it all over again cause the story was that good. Wasn’t a fan of the jump from past to present, but it was crucial to the story.
The author did a FANTASTIC job with this one. The story and character development were INCREDIBLE. I was hesitant to read this cause it’s 9 years old, and the author was NTM. But, my book friend recommended this and, as always... well done, friend. Well done with this rec.
S/O to Rashawnda.
Read this book, y'all. Super recommend!!
October 2, 2024
May this type of love never find me..
January 13, 2024
I love you too much!!
Whew this was one of the most intense, toxic loves I have ever read.
Let me just say Denny was off his rocker. I mean crazy af and I felt sorry for him..... All he wanted was not to lose the love, the person that made him feel normal; real happiness and that was Neeka. Neeka was so young and I think at first she didn't understand the magnitude of his love for her. Sure she enjoyed the intensity, but she didn't realize that she was keeping this man sane all while making him crazy at the same time. Neeka had her own ish about her and it came from not really having a family to call her own. She lived with her father, but it was by default after her mother was struggling. So, she found that unconditional love she expected to receive from her father in Denny. At first I thought it was just Neeka with the "daddy issues," but I realized Denny had daddy issues too. Not only was he scared of becoming his father, hence him not wanting to be referred to by his full name, he was extremely saddened by losing him. Especially the way he lost him, it was like a vivid reminder of whom he was destined to become. Denny and Neeka were the epitome of crazy in love.
Listen this was a lot!!!! The use of "daddy" was off putting to me, especially with the age gap but it just made sense as the story unraveled. The flashbacks may not be for everyone, but I think they were necessary for this story and the author did such a good job with the placement of them and it slowly led up to the drama that the story opened up with. Bravo to Ms. Allen. Excellent rec from my book friend Rashawnda, she was absolutely right this is a must read!!
Whew this was one of the most intense, toxic loves I have ever read.
Let me just say Denny was off his rocker. I mean crazy af and I felt sorry for him..... All he wanted was not to lose the love, the person that made him feel normal; real happiness and that was Neeka. Neeka was so young and I think at first she didn't understand the magnitude of his love for her. Sure she enjoyed the intensity, but she didn't realize that she was keeping this man sane all while making him crazy at the same time. Neeka had her own ish about her and it came from not really having a family to call her own. She lived with her father, but it was by default after her mother was struggling. So, she found that unconditional love she expected to receive from her father in Denny. At first I thought it was just Neeka with the "daddy issues," but I realized Denny had daddy issues too. Not only was he scared of becoming his father, hence him not wanting to be referred to by his full name, he was extremely saddened by losing him. Especially the way he lost him, it was like a vivid reminder of whom he was destined to become. Denny and Neeka were the epitome of crazy in love.
Listen this was a lot!!!! The use of "daddy" was off putting to me, especially with the age gap but it just made sense as the story unraveled. The flashbacks may not be for everyone, but I think they were necessary for this story and the author did such a good job with the placement of them and it slowly led up to the drama that the story opened up with. Bravo to Ms. Allen. Excellent rec from my book friend Rashawnda, she was absolutely right this is a must read!!
January 20, 2025
“Atlantis…
…is back to you.
I’ll always…
…come back to you…”
Enough said 😌🤌🏿
…is back to you.
I’ll always…
…come back to you…”
Enough said 😌🤌🏿
February 22, 2024
NO MATTER WHAT THE PEOPLE SAY, I'M GONNA LOVE YOU ANYWAY. YOU ARE MY LIFEEEEEEEE, I CAN'T LET GOOOOOOOOO.
Baby LISTENNNNN! This was a book book! I saw one of my book besties, Rashawnda, recommend this book and I instantly added it to my TBR list cos iykyk. I didn’t read the synopsis or anything, just went in blind with the audiobook.
When I first started I was like no way she’s 18 and he’s damn near 30. COS WHETTT? Then I was like why is she calling him Daddy???? BUTTTTT, the chapters jump from past to present and I learned real quick!
Now don't get me wrong because I connected with this book on the concept of “age ain’t nothing but a number” because my first love, who’s still my love, is 7 years older than me so Neeka girl... I feel you! I loved how Denny protected her ALWAYS and never let a soul disrespect her, not even her Father. Y’all ever heard Mary J song ‘I’m Going Down’? When she says, "it's slowly, slowly drivin' me insane, boy"? That's what Neeka was doing to Denny but she was so young and green that I honestly don’t think she knew she was driving this man crazy all while keeping him sane AT THE SAME DAMN TIME!!!!!
This was the most toxic love story I’ve read all year, probably ever. But all in all, I know that had to be one of the hardest decisions ever for Denny; however, I’m so glad he made the right choice to take the steps to become healthy for his family. Otherwise, I don’t think Neeka would’ve gotten back to her, loving her, doing the things that made her who she was before meeting him.
Great job TA, you did an awesome job with this one! I'll be reading more of your books soon.
Oh and another thing, my love, who does not read books at all, listened to this audiobook with me by default because it caught his attention (especially during every last sex scene) and he said, “What book is that? A sex book?” LMMFAOOOOOOOOO .. I HOLLERED! I asked him was he listening and he said, “Yeah, I can’t help but listen at this toxicity you’re listening too.” His rating: 4 stars! Ooouuuuuuuuuu, recommend me some more!
Baby LISTENNNNN! This was a book book! I saw one of my book besties, Rashawnda, recommend this book and I instantly added it to my TBR list cos iykyk. I didn’t read the synopsis or anything, just went in blind with the audiobook.
When I first started I was like no way she’s 18 and he’s damn near 30. COS WHETTT? Then I was like why is she calling him Daddy???? BUTTTTT, the chapters jump from past to present and I learned real quick!
Now don't get me wrong because I connected with this book on the concept of “age ain’t nothing but a number” because my first love, who’s still my love, is 7 years older than me so Neeka girl... I feel you! I loved how Denny protected her ALWAYS and never let a soul disrespect her, not even her Father. Y’all ever heard Mary J song ‘I’m Going Down’? When she says, "it's slowly, slowly drivin' me insane, boy"? That's what Neeka was doing to Denny but she was so young and green that I honestly don’t think she knew she was driving this man crazy all while keeping him sane AT THE SAME DAMN TIME!!!!!
This was the most toxic love story I’ve read all year, probably ever. But all in all, I know that had to be one of the hardest decisions ever for Denny; however, I’m so glad he made the right choice to take the steps to become healthy for his family. Otherwise, I don’t think Neeka would’ve gotten back to her, loving her, doing the things that made her who she was before meeting him.
Great job TA, you did an awesome job with this one! I'll be reading more of your books soon.
Oh and another thing, my love, who does not read books at all, listened to this audiobook with me by default because it caught his attention (especially during every last sex scene) and he said, “What book is that? A sex book?” LMMFAOOOOOOOOO .. I HOLLERED! I asked him was he listening and he said, “Yeah, I can’t help but listen at this toxicity you’re listening too.” His rating: 4 stars! Ooouuuuuuuuuu, recommend me some more!
February 18, 2024
My goodness!! Very very very good! I wasnt sure how this was going to go, but I was NOT thinking the ending would land like that. Denny is a very complex individual. And Neeka is the fuel to that already burning fire. I always say women who call men “Daddy” have Daddy issues.. This book proving me right. Lol This was a ride thats not done. Get into this! The audio was superb! The reading of this was like watching a movie.
November 26, 2024
VERY INTENSE!!!!!!
“I swear to God. I’ll rob this whole earth of all good and bring it to you.” -Denny
Whewwwww, the intensity between Denny & Neeka was FELT!
“I swear to God. I’ll rob this whole earth of all good and bring it to you.” -Denny
Whewwwww, the intensity between Denny & Neeka was FELT!
April 4, 2017
Wow... Just wow..... I need a moment (pause)
I've been a fan since the TTW Series, so I already knew about the author's talent. I went into this book blind because even though I had heard all the hype about the book being excellent, I didn't want a preamble....
Once I began reading I thought the experience was the usual then and now account about the love story of D Rock and Neeka. I read each word and lived through it.... Not until 85% into the book did the light come all the way on. OMG... Once the light came on.... I got all in my feelings and there I remain..... Please tell me there is another book being written because I just CANT let go.... in my Anthony Hamilton Voice......
This book is a beautiful love story with raw emotion... until the lights come on....
Loved it.
I've been a fan since the TTW Series, so I already knew about the author's talent. I went into this book blind because even though I had heard all the hype about the book being excellent, I didn't want a preamble....
Once I began reading I thought the experience was the usual then and now account about the love story of D Rock and Neeka. I read each word and lived through it.... Not until 85% into the book did the light come all the way on. OMG... Once the light came on.... I got all in my feelings and there I remain..... Please tell me there is another book being written because I just CANT let go.... in my Anthony Hamilton Voice......
This book is a beautiful love story with raw emotion... until the lights come on....
Loved it.
December 29, 2014
SHE DID THAT! Storyline? AMAZING! Character development? AMAZING! I could not put this book down and read it in one sitting. I experienced every emotion possible while reading this and was moved to tears by the ending. Not a little sniffle here or there, full blown weeping. Great job! If you haven't purchased this book already, what exactly are you waiting for?
February 13, 2024
Intoxicating 🥲
For this to only be book one says a lot wow. I wanted to give it that 5 stars but this was a 4.7 for me. This couple was a next level of intoxicated for each other meaning poison a cause to loose control of behavior but I don’t know if it was a good thing or a bad thing yet what I do feel is neeka didn’t get to grow before going into these big shoes and many people in the book have thrown that in her face and when you tell someone something like that of course their gonna do the opposite to prove it. Now Denny I’m still thinking on him but their love was some real love. I have more to say but imma wait till book two to see how I feel what I can say is that I enjoyed this book and couldn’t put it down 😂 and very much was enthralled that author Takerra incorporated some Caribbean roots.
For this to only be book one says a lot wow. I wanted to give it that 5 stars but this was a 4.7 for me. This couple was a next level of intoxicated for each other meaning poison a cause to loose control of behavior but I don’t know if it was a good thing or a bad thing yet what I do feel is neeka didn’t get to grow before going into these big shoes and many people in the book have thrown that in her face and when you tell someone something like that of course their gonna do the opposite to prove it. Now Denny I’m still thinking on him but their love was some real love. I have more to say but imma wait till book two to see how I feel what I can say is that I enjoyed this book and couldn’t put it down 😂 and very much was enthralled that author Takerra incorporated some Caribbean roots.
February 25, 2024
Wow….. WOW. I’ll be back with the review.
April 29, 2020
A journey through a deep intense love.......obsession
Devout is undeniably one of the best books I've ever read. I love a book where i can visualize and feel like I'm watching a really good movie. Denny is one hell of a character. An in charge character with a presence and disposition that you have to be strong and wise to deal with. Meeka definitely wasn't ready. She's too meek......too green......too young to step into his world, but she does. Her naive nature shows throughout the book. I found myself wishing they'd go their separate ways. With the way things transpired toward the end I'm sure such a devout love will prevail.......but you never know.......on to book 2 to find out where they end up.
Devout is undeniably one of the best books I've ever read. I love a book where i can visualize and feel like I'm watching a really good movie. Denny is one hell of a character. An in charge character with a presence and disposition that you have to be strong and wise to deal with. Meeka definitely wasn't ready. She's too meek......too green......too young to step into his world, but she does. Her naive nature shows throughout the book. I found myself wishing they'd go their separate ways. With the way things transpired toward the end I'm sure such a devout love will prevail.......but you never know.......on to book 2 to find out where they end up.
January 2, 2015
I read this book after seeing so many people read it and loved it. The reviews were good.The book started out slow to me. I didnt get into the story until I was about 54% into the book. After completing the book it made sense but I had already figure out he wasnt just crazy in love he was just plain crazy. The story ended up being good towards the end. I could'nt picture the characters as being the way the story was written.
October 9, 2023
Have you ever read a book/series so good that you go through a whole roller coaster ride of emotions and all of your thoughts are competing to come out? I’ve been sitting on this review for a week and still can’t find the words. But the one thing I can say is that Jay & Bey’s Crazy in Love could be the soundtrack to Denny and Neeka’s life. They were literally and figuratively crazy in love. This is a must read!!!
November 2, 2023
wow.
takerra.. girl. not going to lie, i was confused at where this book was going in the beginning but the wait was WORTH IT. neeka, 18 .. freshmen in college begins dating denny 27, newarks biggest hustler. the build up of this story was so good, as nearing the end everything begins to tie together. takerra definitely dropped some gems on the perception of love and how sometimes we place high expectations in situations that are not reality. learning ahout denny's illness was a truly heartbreaking especially since its one he watched his parents suffer through & that he genetically inherited. both him & neeka have lots to work on individually to survive as a unit. i wont give neeka too many passes because she's young but baby you gotta roll with the decisions you make in life. but nevertheless, lets see what book two gives! to atlantis😭🙃💕
takerra.. girl. not going to lie, i was confused at where this book was going in the beginning but the wait was WORTH IT. neeka, 18 .. freshmen in college begins dating denny 27, newarks biggest hustler. the build up of this story was so good, as nearing the end everything begins to tie together. takerra definitely dropped some gems on the perception of love and how sometimes we place high expectations in situations that are not reality. learning ahout denny's illness was a truly heartbreaking especially since its one he watched his parents suffer through & that he genetically inherited. both him & neeka have lots to work on individually to survive as a unit. i wont give neeka too many passes because she's young but baby you gotta roll with the decisions you make in life. but nevertheless, lets see what book two gives! to atlantis😭🙃💕
October 27, 2023
I will say this book had a slow start. I was almost mad thinking yall lied about how good it was!
But once all the dots started connecting and everything made sense. I was left STUNNED AND IN TEARS!!!
You gonna need your vice of choice while reading because you will be stressed.
I didn’t like the age gap. Neeka was so young and Denny’s obsession didn’t make it better. But, I keep wanting to know what was up with those two. Like is love really that deep? All of my notes say “THIS MF IS CRAZY”
Then we get to the chapter where his mom tells his backstory. And WOW IS ALL I CAN SAY. I really wanted Neeka to run but also knew she was just as crazy about him.
Just know I will never be that damn DEVOUT!
But once all the dots started connecting and everything made sense. I was left STUNNED AND IN TEARS!!!
You gonna need your vice of choice while reading because you will be stressed.
I didn’t like the age gap. Neeka was so young and Denny’s obsession didn’t make it better. But, I keep wanting to know what was up with those two. Like is love really that deep? All of my notes say “THIS MF IS CRAZY”
Then we get to the chapter where his mom tells his backstory. And WOW IS ALL I CAN SAY. I really wanted Neeka to run but also knew she was just as crazy about him.
Just know I will never be that damn DEVOUT!
October 4, 2023
Talk about a rollercoaster….😮💨whew! I love the way this story was written. I usually don’t like flashbacks, but this was assembled perfectly. The love between Denny and Neeka was underestimated by everyone. The Passion between these two is captivating. In the beginning I thought it was cute how Denny expressed his love and desire for Neeka. I started side eyeing him after a few chapters and then my heart aches for him and Neeka for different reasons. I’m rooting for them in the next book.
February 26, 2024
“ I guess the deeper in love we fall the scarier the thought of that love leaving us becomes”
August 21, 2023
“The deeper in love we fall, the scarier the thought of that love leaving us becomes.”
Have you ever loved someone so much it hurt? Have you ever cherished the pain because you knew the pain you’d face without them would be unbearable? That is Denny and Neeka! Whew!! Lord! This book! Where do I begin? What do I say?
This book is told in dual timeline, and it’s probably the best dual timeline I’ve ever read! I was so immersed in this book, from the storyline to the character development, I felt EVERY EMOTION!
The passion that these two had for each other was so intense! Denny came right in and stole my heart! He was gone for Neeka as soon as he laid eyes on her! He even had his friends looking at him in shock because the infamous D- Rock, who had the city of Newark on lock, NEVER sweated a female. EVER! It was just something about Neeka. It was God’s Will!
There were so many intense moments in this book, but the most intense moment for me was that Thanksgiving scene. Oh my God, the way my heart broke for that man! The way he was begging and banging on that door, lord… I couldn’t take it—also that ending, bruh… my heart.
Some of my favorite parts:
1. Their first date. (Him giving her his ❤️)
2. Oxygen Baby (IYKYK)
3. Neeka beating April with that belt 😂
4. The night of that party
5. The Spice 🥵🥵
6. The comedy club 😂 😂
7. Denny showing up in her classroom
8. Their connection 🥰
Book: Devout
Author: Tekerra Allen
Genre: Urban Fiction
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🥵🥵🥵🥵
April 28, 2025
Okay this was weird for me. I’m the beginning I kept waiting for the show to drop. Then I realized the show was he was schizophrenic, and I discovered that on my own before it was apart of the conversation. But honestly their love was too dependent on each other and therefore unattractive to me. It gave Stockholm syndrome real bad and I lost kept thinking, do she really even want to be with him? Like if he left her alone would she just move on with her life? By the end I was still not in love with them or their story she felt really childlike to me even to the end. I loved that he went to get help but I don’t think it’s going to change anything. I am so torn about reading book 2 because it’s just so toxic and not my type of toxic. Even now writing this I feel like I should give it one more star because I do, in reflection, see that this is a real type of thing therefore I get the desire to write. Story like this. It wasn’t a bad story overall though. It was well written and depicted there story very well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 24, 2025
3.25⭐️🌶️🌶️From the beginning of this book, I knew there was something not right about the MMC. I thought it was going to be like a dark mafia-type romance book, but then I came to find out that the MMC has so many mental health diagnoses. Then it all just made sense. And not for nothing, I think that the FMC has mental health diagnoses also. The codependency of their relationship was very intense, and add 18 years old when your frontal lobe is not developed. I do not think that she should’ve gotten in so deep with an almost 30-year-old man. Then it ends on a cliffhanger, which I also hate, and I don’t know if I want to finish.
Age gap✅
Codependency✅
Grumpy sunshine✅
Touch her and die x1000✅
Naïve FMC✅
Mental health awareness✅
Age gap✅
Codependency✅
Grumpy sunshine✅
Touch her and die x1000✅
Naïve FMC✅
Mental health awareness✅
October 22, 2024
10/10 this book shows you the reality of red flags being tangled with mental illness that some can’t fix themselves but need medical attention. Everyone deserves love but how deep can that love truly be. “Can you guys love each other enough to leave.” 🥹 TA 🫶🏽
February 22, 2025
Beautiful
This is a really good read. There is someone out there for everyone. I truly believe that these two belong together, but in the time they are in is not their time. Anywho, y'all just read the damn book.
This is a really good read. There is someone out there for everyone. I truly believe that these two belong together, but in the time they are in is not their time. Anywho, y'all just read the damn book.
September 2, 2025
4.5 🌟
“Like oxygen...”
“Fucking oxygen.”
“Like oxygen...”
“Fucking oxygen.”
December 26, 2014
'Does that make me crazy? Does that make me crazy? Probably...'
D Rock...Denache...Denny...is indeed the man. D Rock is that dude that has Newark on lock...from the top to the bottom and everything in between. His name makes the toughest thug stutter...why? D Rock has no conscience, he's ruthless and there is a vacant look that lurks in the shadows of his eyes...a vacancy that you don't want directed toward you. His street cred rings loud and clear, near and far, and there are no boundaries or no limits to his actions or his catastrophic reactions. Neeka....Neeki...Love...the young preppy lady with her refreshing innocence that surrounds her and captures his attention. What's a grown azz man want with a teenager...a grown man that drives Porches, Escalades and the likes...a grown azz man that flies his women in to fulfill his wants and needs. So what is it about this young chick that breezes in and whispers his name and you instantly see him soften. There is nothing about her that fits into the edginess of the lifestyle that he has amassed by hook or crook, with blood, sweat and surely some tears were shed in his destructive path. Neeki never thought that hanging out with her cousin Brianna and her ghetto friends would have her cross paths with the likes of this fine specimen called D Rock Thus the story begins with a connection that is so electric, so vibrant, that it's actually tangible, dangerous, frightening, yet mesmeric, lyrical and priceless. What happens when what you used to take as violent outbreaks, over-the-top rage and cold blooded maniacal commands are slowly presenting other issues, special issues, what happens when the root is more twisted and vicious than you ever imagined...is love enough to stay. What about the revelation that it could mean life or death...like frigging oxygen...is a love that strong, that intense worth life even though you realize it could mean death? Is that love and loyalty...could your allegiance be that Devout? Crazy or emotional, insane or evil, conditional or unconditional, controlled our simply manageable...these are questions that will plague your psyche long after you've read the last page, re-read scenes, and closed the book.
Devout is not your average Urban Lit title, which should be your first indication that this will NOT be your average Urban Lit read. Truth be told, this novel shouldn't even be categorized as an Urban Lit read because of the depth and intricate matter of which it is penned. Takerra Allen has once again executed the 'wow' factor with extraordinary characters, although the plot of Devout challenges the reader as they embark on this intense journey. The orchestration of the kingpin falling for the good girl is proof that you can't judge a book by the cover, you will witness this as Takerra delves into the crevices of society's whispers on acquaintances, family members, friends that act a certain way... there is just one small iota that makes them different. Something just ain't quite right...they're not all the way right. Two individuals that have pasts that maneuver their present ...abandonment makes one insecure...death makes another strong...both fighting demons of their parents...but this union, this unique bond makes all the noise silent. It fades into the background until...it becomes an afterthought until the veil is lifted and what you once took for granted will make you question thought patterns, reactions, response...in summation your very own sanity. This is a very descriptive venture, but as you get caught up in the scenarios, you will see that each word, each sentence, each paragraph has a purpose and place. I can't begin to describe my thoughts as I completed this riveting, emotional and powerfully provocative read. I've been a fan of TA for a long time and each read deepens the engravement of her natural skills as a storyteller. Ms. Allen's latest project, Devout, will mos def leave you with an enchanting and impressionable relationship that will tarry in the deep recesses of your memory bank for an immeasurable period of time. Enjoy this journey and applaud Ms. Allen on her latest Masterpiece, because she has one again surpassed a pinnacle called Success! Magnificente!!!!
D Rock...Denache...Denny...is indeed the man. D Rock is that dude that has Newark on lock...from the top to the bottom and everything in between. His name makes the toughest thug stutter...why? D Rock has no conscience, he's ruthless and there is a vacant look that lurks in the shadows of his eyes...a vacancy that you don't want directed toward you. His street cred rings loud and clear, near and far, and there are no boundaries or no limits to his actions or his catastrophic reactions. Neeka....Neeki...Love...the young preppy lady with her refreshing innocence that surrounds her and captures his attention. What's a grown azz man want with a teenager...a grown man that drives Porches, Escalades and the likes...a grown azz man that flies his women in to fulfill his wants and needs. So what is it about this young chick that breezes in and whispers his name and you instantly see him soften. There is nothing about her that fits into the edginess of the lifestyle that he has amassed by hook or crook, with blood, sweat and surely some tears were shed in his destructive path. Neeki never thought that hanging out with her cousin Brianna and her ghetto friends would have her cross paths with the likes of this fine specimen called D Rock Thus the story begins with a connection that is so electric, so vibrant, that it's actually tangible, dangerous, frightening, yet mesmeric, lyrical and priceless. What happens when what you used to take as violent outbreaks, over-the-top rage and cold blooded maniacal commands are slowly presenting other issues, special issues, what happens when the root is more twisted and vicious than you ever imagined...is love enough to stay. What about the revelation that it could mean life or death...like frigging oxygen...is a love that strong, that intense worth life even though you realize it could mean death? Is that love and loyalty...could your allegiance be that Devout? Crazy or emotional, insane or evil, conditional or unconditional, controlled our simply manageable...these are questions that will plague your psyche long after you've read the last page, re-read scenes, and closed the book.
Devout is not your average Urban Lit title, which should be your first indication that this will NOT be your average Urban Lit read. Truth be told, this novel shouldn't even be categorized as an Urban Lit read because of the depth and intricate matter of which it is penned. Takerra Allen has once again executed the 'wow' factor with extraordinary characters, although the plot of Devout challenges the reader as they embark on this intense journey. The orchestration of the kingpin falling for the good girl is proof that you can't judge a book by the cover, you will witness this as Takerra delves into the crevices of society's whispers on acquaintances, family members, friends that act a certain way... there is just one small iota that makes them different. Something just ain't quite right...they're not all the way right. Two individuals that have pasts that maneuver their present ...abandonment makes one insecure...death makes another strong...both fighting demons of their parents...but this union, this unique bond makes all the noise silent. It fades into the background until...it becomes an afterthought until the veil is lifted and what you once took for granted will make you question thought patterns, reactions, response...in summation your very own sanity. This is a very descriptive venture, but as you get caught up in the scenarios, you will see that each word, each sentence, each paragraph has a purpose and place. I can't begin to describe my thoughts as I completed this riveting, emotional and powerfully provocative read. I've been a fan of TA for a long time and each read deepens the engravement of her natural skills as a storyteller. Ms. Allen's latest project, Devout, will mos def leave you with an enchanting and impressionable relationship that will tarry in the deep recesses of your memory bank for an immeasurable period of time. Enjoy this journey and applaud Ms. Allen on her latest Masterpiece, because she has one again surpassed a pinnacle called Success! Magnificente!!!!
April 29, 2024
Unbelievable
Going into this story, I obviously had far too little expectations. But soon enough, chapter after chapter pulled me in. Honestly, I don’t even know what to say. Words don’t do it justice. The emotions.. The lessons.. The thoughts put into pulling this story together.. I cant even imagine. This was a beautiful read. I could go on forever but I’d rather let Devout Too blow me away all over again.
Going into this story, I obviously had far too little expectations. But soon enough, chapter after chapter pulled me in. Honestly, I don’t even know what to say. Words don’t do it justice. The emotions.. The lessons.. The thoughts put into pulling this story together.. I cant even imagine. This was a beautiful read. I could go on forever but I’d rather let Devout Too blow me away all over again.
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