From Wall Street Journal, USA Today Bestselling and RITA® Award-winning Author Kennedy Ryan, comes a captivating second chance romance like only she can deliver…..Book Riot Pick – Best Romances of 2020O Magazine – Best Romances of 2020All About Romance – Best Romance of 2020 (Reader Selection)The boy who always felt like mine is now the man I can’t have…Dig a little and you’ll find photos of … who always felt like mine is now the man I can’t have…
Dig a little and you’ll find photos of me in the bathtub with Ezra Stern.
Get your mind out of the gutter. We were six months old.
Pry and one of us might confess we saved our first kiss for each other. The most clumsy, wet, sloppy . . . spectacular thirty seconds of my adolescence.
Get into our business and you’ll see two families, closer than blood, torn apart in an instant.
Twenty years later, my “awkward duckling” best friend from childhood, the boy no one noticed, is a man no one can ignore.
Finer. Fiercer. Smarter.
Taken.
Tell me it’s wrong.
Tell me the boy who always felt like mine is now the man I can’t have.
When we find each other again, everything stands in our way–secrets, lies, promises.
But we didn’t come this far to give up now.
And I know just the move to make if I want to make him mine.
more
I always take a little time after I’ve finished a book by Kennedy to just sit and think about the impact of her words. I believe for a book to resonate with the reader it has to have a deeper meaning. If you look beneath the words you will see a part of the author, their experiences, the life they lived, their past and present this is how I feel when I read Kennedy’s words.
It would be so easy to dismiss this as a friends to lovers romance between childhood friends reconnnecting. One of my favourite things about this authors books are the women she writes, they are strong with a well developed sense of their own worth. Kimba is a modern woman living her life on her own terms and making her own path. Ezra sweet complicted Ezra, a quiet man of hidden depths. A man you can count on who will stand by you in the good and bad times. A man who loves with his whole being who wraps his arms around you and you know it’s going to be ok.
The story spans decades and involves the extended families which I loved as we delve into their traditions and their religions which I found fascinating. I’m not sure I have rooted for a couple to get a break quite as much as I did with Kimba and Ezra. This is such a beautiful story that shouldn’t be rushed, take your time to savour the words and the pure passionate romance.
Everyone will take something different from this book, injustice, inequality, racism, sexism I think there is something that will touch everyone in some way. Recently I went back and read some of Kennedy’s books again because I realised that each book had a message I missed and it wasn’t because they weren’t noticeable it was because to my shame I just didn’t see them but now my eyes are wide open.
Queen Move is a beautiful and compelling second chance romance that captured my heart from the very start! Ryan created a unique and thoughtful love story that deeply touched every emotion. Kimba and Ezra’s story starts with their mothers. Ezra’s mom and dad moved to Atlanta from NY and she felt alone with a new baby. Kimba’s mom befriended her and their families became very close. Kimba and Ezra grew up together, supporting each other thru their awkward stages and mis-steps, strengthening each other. Just when they knew they loved each other more than friends, their families had a falling out. Ezras’s family moved and they were out of touch for two decades. When they have a chance meeting, they instantly know their childhood closeness never died, it was just waiting for them to find each other again. But life and love is messy. They both have complications in their lives that don’t make it easy to act on their hearts desires. But they are both strong, supportive, and patient to help each other accomplish what they need too so they can hopefully find their way back to each other for good. I admire Kimba for all her passion and commitment to helping others by way of the political arena. I loved how Ezra saw how strong and powerful Kimba was, but also knew she needed a safe place to let her guard down. He is so swoony in not only his sexy strong silent alpha way, but also in his sweet relationship with his son, and how he helps the kids at his school. They are so perfect together, with a soul deep passion and love. Ryan is expert at creating such rich characters, and portraying their lives and relationships with such compassion and honesty. This is a beautiful, and passionate story about perseverance, love, loyalty,and family, with a currency that will resonate, and spark your imagination. It is an incredibly powerful and awe-inspiring romance that will leave you breathless, and believing in soul mates.
5 star Review Queen Move by Kennedy Ryan
From the first chapter I was absolutely hooked on the story that Ms.Ryan wove and frankly I could not put Queen Move down. This is Kimba Allen and Ezra Stern’s story and it is a beautifully written love story.
This is a second chance at love story that ticked the boxes for me. I needed to know what happened and read well in to the night. This is a book that will reel you in and keep you riveted from the beginning to the end.
Sometimes when you read a book, you know that the hero and heroine and simply meant to be and that is how I feel about Kimba and Ezra, two parts of a whole, soul mates who are meant to be together.
This book had it all, with love, romance and chemistry that left me breathless. One click this little gem you won’t be disappointed.
This book is so good. We go back to the past and see how close Ezra and Kimba were. We see them finally find each other. Even when pulled in different directions they still feel connected.
Their chemistry jumps off the pages. The angst has me wanting to break things. I needed to know… Kimba and Ezra are explosive together. I am always amazed at the things I learn reading Kennedy Ryan’s books. She is so talented. The research she has to do to write such compelling stories has to be a lot of work.
I never saw the twist coming. I swear my jaw dropped to the floor. Drawing flies because I couldn’t pick it up. Kimba truly wanted what was best for the family. I felt her fear of losing, but she truly was a QUEEN.
Queen Move by Kennedy Ryan is hands down, complete, and utter perfection!
This book is as beautifully written as it is impactful! Spanning decades, this soulmate style romance is infused with intense emotion, issues that matter, and a fluid story-telling displaying the complex intricacies of both life and love.
I could not wait for Kimba’s book after first being introduced to her character in the Kingmaker Duet. I thought I loved her before, but was blown away by how much I adored her strength, her tenacity, capacity to love, and everything she endured as a woman, and a person. Ezra’s character was one of my favorites Ryan has written. While this book is undeniably a romance, it’s also very unique, in that it’s dynamic and diverse, and in a league of its own!
Get ready for a read that is sure to pull at your heart strings, burn up your kindle, and touch your soul! Read Queen Move by Kennedy Ryan today!
Not my usual cup of tea. I’m not political in the least, but this was good. Once you look past all the dirt you dig up on people to get your way in life you find a decent story underneath. In love with your best friend as a child. First kiss and them bam! Gone! When your back together things are as easy as you’d like them to be and who suffers. You both do but do you get yours in the end. You’ll find out!
PSA: affairs, babies, menopause, political warfare, and friends for life all included in this gem!
My heart is 100% completely full after reading Queen Move. Kennedy Ryan has managed to create another spectacular masterpiece. Ezra Stern and Kimba Allen are noteworthy, admirable characters and their beautiful and touching story will resonate with me for a long time. I felt their passionate romance deep down to my soul.
I thoroughly enjoyed Queen Move for several reasons and I particularly appreciate it when Kennedy Ryan writes characters of different ethnicities and religions. And I always walk away learning something new. This book also portrays relatable characters with realistic events and aspects that gave me all the feels and emotions. I felt such a deep connection with the Allen family. And I was so in love with them to the point that I found myself wishing Janetta Allen was my mom and that I could be a part of the family.
I have a soft spot for young love and since Ezra and Kimba met as babies and fell in love as teenagers, my romantic heart was thrilled. The real magic starts to happen when they reunite years later and realize their flame is still burning. Kimba is a fierce, strong, confident and articulate woman who blew me away. And sweet Ezra, he’s what every woman could ever hope for in a companion. He’s down to earth, caring, selfless and perfect in every way. These two are truly made for each other. Their connection is undeniable, the energy and chemistry between them is palpable and all consuming. Their journey isn’t an easy one as their story is raw, complex and real as they deal with life issues, obstacles and obligations. I highly recommend reading Queen Move as it’s one of my top favorite books of 2020.
All Hail the Queen!!
Something special happens when Kennedy Ryan puts words down on paper. She is so thoughtful and eloquent, you feel everything deep down to your soul. You feel as if you are part of something so much bigger. I was so immersed in Kimba and Ezra’s worlds. I felt the passion, the heartbreak, everything!
Queen Move is an absolute must-read!
Ezra and Kimba grew up across the street from each other and have been best friends since they were babies. Then after they finally shared their first kiss together, they were ripped apart. Twenty years later they see each other again at Kimba’s father’s funeral. The connection was still there but Ezra is with someone else, so they do not try to reconnect. The next time they meet Ezra is single and they do not hold back. While there are some hurdles along the way, they know they are destined to be together.
Queen Move is not just a romance story it also discusses the different racial, cultural and religious backgrounds of the characters. It is not often a writer goes deeper into the backgrounds of the characters. I like that we got to see the challenges not only the characters, but their parents dealt with. I loved Ezra and Kimba. I love that Kimba is a strong independent woman. The connection between them was always there and the reader felt it. I am so glad that we did not have to wait too long for them to be together because it was HOT! Another great book by Kennedy Ryan.
I wrote this review based on an advance reading copy that the publisher sent me in exchange for an honest review.
OMG OMG OMG I LOVED THIS BOOK. I LOVE LOVE LOOOOVE KIMBA. AND EZRA DON’T EVEN GET ME STARTED ON HIM.
So this book is a childhood friends to lover novel. Ezra and Kimba always have had a special connection since they were kids. They both basically used to go hide in a corner and talk for hours. They were close enough to read each other’s minds. Until they got separated one day.
Fast forward 22 years I believe they meet again during a funeral. Someone very close to Kimba had passed away and Ezra comes to pay his respects and hoped to meet Kimba again, as soon as their eyes collide they both are instantly drawn to each other again and Ezra is close to asking Kimba for her number when she see’s Noah, Ezra’s son and realises it’s best that they don’t stay in touch.
Two years later, Kimba has just helped elect the new president of the United States and decides to go back home for a few weeks. Where she reconnects with Ezra. They both are literally instantly drawn to each other, you can literally tell that these two have a strong bond. They were always meant to be together but due to certain circumstances were separated and now they have a chance to give their love a chance. It wasn’t easy, they had to face many challenging situations together, especially with Ezra’s ex. But omg I had no doubt they would act like mature adults and not just think from their dick/vagina.
This book is about belonging, that it’s okay to come from a different ethnicity background or come from a mixed family. It’s doesn’t really matter what religion you follow, each and everyone of us has a place in this world. This book also contains about past/present mistakes (omg that plot twist though about the parents damn…) how everyone is immune to fuck up in their life, what matters is that you ask for forgiveness, heal together and move on. Moreover, It’s okay for you to find your own purpose in this world instead of being suffocated by your families legacy or expectations. Do what makes you happy boo.
Honestly, Kimba was the MVP of this book for me. She was a STRONG INDEPENDENT WOMAN OF COLOUR being a complete bad ass, helping people win elections. She didn’t take shit from anyone, didn’t kiss any ass because she believed her resume was more than enough to impress people to want to hire her for their upcoming campaigns. She was the highlight of this book for me even towards the end she made such a mature decision with her relationship with Ezra. The plot twists, I was like fuuuck, daaaamn, PLEASE NOOOO etc. So yeah loved this book and highly recommend it.
Also last point, I just loved how the fact that Ezra and Kimba are an interracial couple and not once did the author make me feel like it’s something so unique or different or impossible, you know? One of the reasons why I avoid interracial romance novels is because most of the books I have read with that troop, the entire book mostly revolves around how the woman (mostly) is a person of colour and is dirt poor (sometimes has a minimum wage job) and her magic white rich prince who comes and saves her. And it just keeps on being brought up that how this white person is dating someone with a different skin tone or ethnicity background. Like I get it, please stop. So THANK YOU KENNEDY FOR NOT DOING THAT. For writing about a successful black woman and an equally successful mixed man, yes that’s right our Ezra is a love child of a mixed couple. TOTALLY LOVED IT. RESPECT YOU FOR THAT.
„I want to be your last.”
Kennedy Ryan proved once again that she’s second to none. Kimba’s story was a book I was eagerly waiting for, because I knew it would bring me to my knees. And oh boy, how right I was. Queen Move was simply spectacular. This story was so profound and emotional that I felt it deep to the core. This beautiful love story is intertwined with so many important aspects that you can’t prepare for the impact it delivers. Kennedy is able not only to enthral me with her flawless prose, but also influence my worldview. The topics this author raises are always relevant and thought-provoking. And the romance itself is always breathtaking.
Kimba is the quintessence of femininity. She is strong, ambitious, driven, she exudes sex appeal, confidence and intelligence. She lives by her own rules and desires. She is also a perfect mix of sophistication and sass. A true symbol of woman power.
Ezra made me fall in love with him twice. The first time as a young, lost guy who was trying to find himself, and the second time as a mature, responsible and confident man he grew into. I loved his nerdiness and his aspirations to make a change. I also adored his possessiveness and devotion. I can honestly admit that he’s my second favorite hero from Kennedy, right after Grip.
These two are the perfect example of soulmates. No matter what they’ve been through and how long they haven’t seen each other, their bond is unbreakable. Their connection is so deep and palpable that during reading I could feel it floating in the air. They had many obstacles to face and their feelings were tested more than once, but the love they share is something that happens once in a lifetime.
Queen Move is one of these books that will stay with you forever. It’s so beautifully written and the storyline is so remarkable that it instantly goes deep into the heart. It goes beyond the beautiful and touching love story between Kimba and Ezra. In this book Ryan raises many social issues that should give us something to think about. And that’s exactly why I love her work so much- her novels are food not only for my heart, but also for my mind. And Queen Move is a real feast for both.
I can’t even describe with words how much I loved this book. Queen Move was delightful story with phenomenal plot full of beautiful but also heartbreaking moments which still hold me in its embrace. I was emotionally overwhelmed after reading this incredible story. I’ve never thought that I would love a second chance romance that much. I had amazing time reading this book and I didn’t want to get to the end of it. Definitely this is the must read romance of 2020.
It was my first book from Kennedy Ryan and I need to admit that I immediately fell in love with her style of writing.
Whole story was perfectly thought with addictive plot, full of interesting dialogues, steamy scenes and the most thrilling romance.
Erza and Kimba were two inseparable best friends. Cruel fate turn out the best day into the worst of their childhood life. Under sudden circumstances they were teared apart and suppose to never see each other again. But that exact moment imprinted grain of pure love in their hearts and took roots so deep that no one could tear it out. After many years when they’ll meet again, they’ll have to face so many adversity and stand between the most hard choices of their lives. Again cruel fate will put them in front of uncertain common future.
I was so deeply touched with this story, with the time they lost, their pure friendship and undiscovered love.
Seriously they went through a lot to be together, their fight for love wasn’t an easy one, and fate throw bricks at their feet with every move they made. I was racing through the pages with trembling heart and looking for the answers.
It was pure and delicious torture to watch how they’re struggling with their undeniable chemistry but couldn’t be together. I was hanging on the emotional edge and impatiently awaiting fort their kiss and touch.
Kennedy Ryan twists and turns the plot in unpredictable and thrilling way that you won’t be certain their happy ever after. Did they find it? You need to read it to find it out and experience this compelling and outstanding romance story.
ARC generously provided by author in exchange for an honest review
Loved reading Kimba’s story. Kennedy always comes up with an original storyline. Kimba is facing some issues that I never even would have thought of and it was very realistic condition that could face any woman. Kimba reconnect with Ezra someone she was very close to growing up. It has been over twenty years since they last saw each other. Kimba and Ezra realize the feelings they once had for each other are still there but there lives are in a place where they may have to settle with being friends. There also very real issues that are addressed in this story that adds to the story.
The thing I’ve discovered about any Kennedy Ryan book? They make you FEEL. And I mean FEEEEEEL. Not just in the feels, not just ALL the feels. The words, the breaths, the ticks, the swishes and hair tucks. You are so immersed in the story you can physically feel the story.
I read a lot and I read everywhere. But Kennedy’s books need to find me in solitude and peacefulness, because my brain and heart will have to work as one to survive a Kennedy Ryan book. And Queen Move?
Man. Queen Move. Every molecule got a work out for Queen Move. Every corner of my brain is learning and storing and tip tapping on memories. Because even though Kimba and I come from different ethnicities, I feel her in the bonds. The bonds with her family, the bonds with her friends, the heart bonds. This is a story for NOW. This is a story of loving the family you have and creating the family you want; and a story that displays to the reader a family that could be. It could be if the world was a more accepting and peaceful place. It’s what we could have. And what we should strive to have.
Kimba and Ezra are a love story that brings exposure to people that aren’t always seen in the forefront of romance. But you know what they have that is always in the forefront of romance? Love. Love in its purest and most true form.
Queen Move fills you with that feeling of pure, true love.
Bravo Mrs. Ryan, brafreakingvo! u202c
I can’t do a review without mentioning the strength of the Allen family, you’ll know it when you read it, this family is what a family should be about. Being there no matter the tests to your bond. Family is family.
And a Daddy’s girl? Well this Daddy’s girl feels compelled to acknowledge the way in which Kimba never waivers on her love and bond with her daddy. It gives the fierce, alpha female just a sprinkle of her vulnerability. It’s not all of it, just a sprinkle.
4.5 stars
Queen Move is Kimba’s story and we are sent on a journey from a young age and how her life has shaped who she is today! Growing up in her family and the dilemmas faced, caused her to fight for what she truly believes in. Losing touch with part of her childhood in her best friend Ezra is not easy but seeing him again after so much time has gone by, rattles her as it does to him!
Needless to say things are complicated, there is drama, secrets, revisiting the past and feelings that play havoc on both Kimba and Ezra! Kimba has grown into a strong, independent woman who has alot she needs to come to term with. She is incredibly good at her job and strives to be the best she can be! Do past feelings resurface or are there more obstacles Kimba will face as she navigates her life! I thought this story shows a wonderful sense of family and friendship! But where Ezra is concerned, can love stand the test of time?? Is there hope for them? I loved Ezra, his caring and humble way about him!
A remarkable story of family, love and the courage to stand up for what you want in life!
*I received a free copy of Queen Move. This has in no way influenced my voluntary review which is honest and unbiased.*
Ms. Ryan did it again! She wrote a beautiful, haunting story with characters that are truly amazing. Both Kimba and Ezra were so very honest, and they were trying very hard to do the right thing – always. Even when doing the right thing is really hard.
I loved that they were so close when they were children, and up until they were 13 years old, then lost touch with each other after something happened and Ezra moved away. It wasn’t exactly like a second chance at love romance, but it was very close – just like it wasn’t exactly like friends to lovers, but again, very close.
Kimba’s family was great, too, and I just loved how supportive they all were towards each other. I could have stayed in Kimba and Ezra’s world for much longer, but I was still completely satisfied with everything <3
Written in dual points of views, in first person singular, I really got to know Kimba and Ezra very well. I recommend this book to all romance readers - it's simply beautiful!