Grown

"I mean, I ain't a black woman or nothing, but I guess I kinda get it. No one ever believes y'all." ~ 90%

Seventeen is grown, right? At least that's how Enchanted Jones feels. Age ain't nothing but a number to 28-year-old R&B artist Korey Fields. He's a superstar with no one around to tell him no, especially his protégés. He grooms them and makes promises of a successful music career all while robbing the cradle. 

Add locked rooms, sex tapes, high school hangouts and young black female victims to the story. Sound familiar? Then a plot twist! Enchanted Jones wakes up with bloody hands and no recollection of the previous night. Korey Fields is dead!

"I feel like summer. I feel like crashing waves, hot sand, sticky ice cream cones, smoky charcoal, and fireworks wrapped up in skin." ~ 19%

Grown is clearly inspired by R. Kelly and the very public allegations of abuse. There are way too many similarities ripped from the headlines and documentaries to think otherwise. At first, this was uncomfortable to read and I was unsure whether to continue. It was the opening chapter that kept me reading. I had to finish and see who killed Korey Fields.

Bookhearts, be warned this new novel mentions abuse, assault and addiction. It can be triggering and difficult to read but it respectfully addresses the issues. Thanks to the author for using her literary voice. Well done! And applause for this gorgeous book cover that originally grabbed my attention. It's great to see a black woman with natural hair (recent big chop, maybe?) wearing a pair of gold door-knocker earrings grace the cover. I see you, grown brown girl! 

Happy Pub Day, Tiffany D. Jackson! Grown is now available.

Disclaimer: An advance copy was received directly from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own and would be the same if I spent my hard-earned coins.

Title: Grown
Author: Tiffany D. Jackson
Published: September 2020
Pages: 368
Edition: Galley
Rating: 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤