Hopefully Unbreakable (Hopefully Series Book 2)

Thank you Taz Ansley and Book Sirens for my ARC copy. Hopefully Unbreakable is an amazing follow-up to Hopefully Unconditional and the series is best read in order to fully appreciate Hendrix and Zeke's journey. In the beginning of book we find Hen and Zeke navigating a relationship while Zeke is studying for an exam. Their relationship isn't struggling but Hen is feeling a bit neglected and he's bit peeved about Zeke disregarding his concerns about of one his colleagues. We find out that indeed Hen was right and it throws him into a bit of a tailspin because it's highly reminiscence of his experience with Malik. This moment of conflict shows Zeke that Hen was correct in his assessment and that he needs to set clear boundaries with that colleague. In the book both Hen and Zeke realize that they have to make big choices and stand up for each in ways that affirm their relationship. I do feel that some of the conflict was easily conquered without too much fanfare vs Hopefully Unconditional were the conflict between Zeke and his family is a big part of the narrative. It is nice to see how they prioritize their relationship but I the think situations with Shawn and Gabbi were moments that were missed opportunities for in-depth conversations between Hen and Zeke. It made me happy that Zeke had a full circle moment where he was able to speak life into Taj after his family's reaction to his relationship. Overall, I loved the continuation of Zeke and Hen's story and I look…

Hopefully Unbreakable by Taz Ansley is a solid follow-up to Hopefully Unconditional, and I recommend reading the first book before diving into this one to appreciate the journey fully. I still absolutely love the dynamic and chemistry between Hendrix and Zeke. Watching the progression of their relationship, and equally important, Zeke's deepening relationship with Hendrix's family, was heartwarming and satisfying. One of the things I appreciated most about this book is how Hendrix and Zeke consistently work to communicate through any issues that arise. They talk things out, they show up for each other, and that kind of healthy relationship representation is refreshing. The found family trope will always have my heart, and Ansley delivers beautifully on this front. I loved how supportive and accepting Hendrix's parents are of Zeke, and how his entire family has embraced both Zeke and his sister as their own. Given Zeke's family history, seeing him surrounded by such a strong support system made my heart so full. This aspect of the story is where Ansley truly shines. That said, I'll be honest, it took me longer to get into this story than the first book. There were moments when the pacing slowed down with what felt like too much detail and characters overthinking situations. Once I settled into the rhythm, though, I was fully invested. There were also times when things felt almost too perfect, which occasionally pulled me out of the story. But the warmth and fuzziness I…

"Loving you is the greatest privilege. I know I've said it before, but I'll say it again, you are everything I ever wanted and more, and I can't wait to love you every day for the rest of my life."- Literally the theme of this book. This second installment in Hen and Zeke's journey takes everything I loved from book one and elevates it. While the first book focused on building their relationship and laying the foundation for their found family, this one explores what it actually means to maintain that love and community when real-life challenges arise. Zeke's internal struggle with confidence adds a deeper emotional layer to the story. Watching him navigate insecurities as he tries to grow into a supportive, loving partner felt raw and authentic. At the same time, external conflicts threaten the peace he and Hen have built, creating a compelling balance of tenderness and tension. One of my favorite aspects of Taz's writing is the celebration of Black excellence. Every character brings something special to the table, and the love letter to Black culture, from the music to the fashion to the subtle nods to classic TV, adds so much richness to the reading experience. The entire book feels like a vibe, reminiscent of those soulful Saturday mornings filled with music, warmth, and cleaning with your momma. What truly stands out is the communication. The characters talk, they listen, and they show up for each other in ways that feel genuine and refreshing. You can feel the love…

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. And they're back….. Hendrix and Ezekiel are back, and we get to see them navigating their relationship while life is lifing. Watching both Hen and Zeke make big choices and stand up for each other in ways that not only affirms the relationship but also each other as individuals within it. The updates from the family members were exactly what I needed in this installment. (I love when the author gives us much needed updates on secondary characters!) Watching the full circle moment happens during the holidays with Zeke and a new person who he gets to speak life into in a way that only he could, allows for us to see a more healed version of Zeke. (Which should give those of us that are hurting HOPE!!) Maybe I’m toxic but I wanted there to be more drama surrounding the issues that they faced, separately and the ones they dealt with together. Cause Bunny should have listened to Angel **eye roll** Hen and Zeke will make you believe no matter what you face you can find love that is unbreakable! Such an amazing story can’t wait for book 3!! Thank you Taz and BookSirens for the free advanced reader copy. My review is all mine and it’s voluntary.

I read somewhere that butterflies need to get out of their chrysalis on their own to make sure their wings are strong enough for them to fly. The getting out of the chrysalis gets the blood pumping, and helps their wings grow to the right size. This book was the perfect representation of people coming out of their chrysalis and becoming who they’re meant to be. Zeke is finally able to find his wings and fly, with Hendrix and his family cheering him on, loving him, supporting him, giving him the space he needs to grow, but also the love and support he needs to thrive. I thought the first book was perfect, and was slightly apprehensive about reading this one, fearing it would be like overcooking a Wagyu steak. I didn’t realize this was part of a 5 course meal, the first one being that steak, this one being appetizers, soup, salad and dessert! Fantastic. It is so good to see loved characters finding their footing and being loved… it’s a beautiful story, fantastic development, the characters that I fell in love with in the previous book continue being fantastic, and on top of that, we get to see them be happy, learn, grow, and love. It’s beautiful, I loved it, and I highly recommend it. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.