Relationships can be tricky when there is a certain dynamic of power shifted in one person’s favor. Nika owns a two-family flat in the Ville neighborhood and rents her bottom apartment to Usian, who grew up in the area. Their relationship is one of mutual respect and understanding, but they always butt heads, which is what contributed to the uptight personality that Nika always displays. Usian is much older than Nika and thinks she’s an entitled brat, while Nika thinks that Usian is a hood rat that will eventually end up back in prison. Amanika, aka Nika, has her entire life ahead of her, but for some reason, she can’t figure it out. She went to college and graduated with honors from Washington University, with a degree in education; however, that’s not really what she wants to do. Since Nika was a teenager, she worked at her aunt’s African hair braiding shop, where all of her family works. They’ve been applying pressure for Nika to get married, and before her father died, he arranged her to be wed. She wants to be able to pick the man she marries, and her mother doesn’t seem to have a problem with it because she wants her daughter to be happy. However, the elders in the family are against it, and with her mother being Muslim, it makes things even more complicated. Jasper Simpson Jr., aka Usian Shakur, is an ex-convict trying to keep his life on track. He used to be a big-time drug dealer until he was locked up and served ten years in prison for drug trafficking and money laundering. He chose not to go back to the life, but a lot of his friends are still deeply involved and trying to get Usian to get back into the game. He found Islam while he was locked up and changed his way of living to better his life, but living in a neighborhood where drugs and violence dominate, there’s a fine line between doing the right thing and succumbing to the pressures of your environment.

Nika and Usian secretly got married, but not everyone is happy about it. Subira uses this as a way to show her family that they have no control over her daughter’s life, and Nika shows them that what she feels in her heart is more important than the deceitful arranged marriage that everyone wants her to go through. However, Nika’s family aren’t the only ones who are outraged about the marriage. Jessica is devasted by the news and refuses to accept the fact that Usian is done with her. CJ is stressed out, trying to hide Precious’s pregnancy from his uncle, not to mention he’s lied to Usian about Precious’s involvement in the robbery. Pooh is steady applying pressure, and CJ knows that he has to do something about it, especially since he killed his mother. CJ should have been handled this situation, and if he’s not careful, things can get even worse. Relationships will be put to the test, and loyalties will fall where they lie. The love that Usian and Nika share is unwavering, but even perfect relationships face adversity. Will they be able to overcome everything that’s coming their way, or will the hate and pressure being applied to the both of them be the cause of their downfall?

Subira has found out that Nika has been sneaking around with Usian, but no one seems to want to talk about it. Nika decided to move with her best friend to get as far away from Usian as possible. She agreed to go through with the marriage to Roc in order to fulfill her obligation and honor her father’s wishes. She would have preferred to marry the man she loves, but instead she has to settle for the latter. Usian decided to help his nephew and get back into the street life. It wasn’t hard considering that two of his closest homies were the men on the streets. He decided to teach CJ the ropes of being a hustler, but this move wasn’t going to be permanent. Nika may be promised to another, but that didn’t mean he was going to accept it, because she may be promised to another, but her heart belonged to him.

Anthony Trollope's 'The Palliser Novels: The Complete Parliamentary Chronicles' is a significant collection that dives into the intricate world of British politics and society during the 19th century. Trollope's literary style in these novels is characterized by detailed character development, intricate plotlines, and a keen observance of political dynamics. The novels provide a realistic portrayal of the political landscape of the time, offering insights into the power struggles and personal dramas that unfold in the corridors of power. With themes of ambition, love, loyalty, and betrayal, this collection is a must-read for those interested in political fiction and historical novels. Anthony Trollope, a former civil servant, draws from his vast knowledge of the inner workings of the British government to create a rich and authentic portrayal of parliamentary life. His own experiences working in various government positions lend credibility to the narratives and characters he presents in 'The Palliser Novels'. Trollope's ability to craft engaging stories within a political context showcases his literary prowess and attention to detail. I highly recommend 'The Palliser Novels: The Complete Parliamentary Chronicles' to readers who enjoy political dramas, historical fiction, and well-developed characters. Trollope's masterful storytelling and insightful commentary on society make this collection a timeless classic worth exploring.

In 'The Complete Works of Anthony Trollope,' readers are immersed in a rich collection of novels and stories that depict the Victorian society through keen observations and sharp wit. Trollope's literary style is characterized by his detailed character studies and insightful social commentary, making his works both entertaining and thought-provoking. His novels often explore themes such as love, class, politics, and ambition, offering a comprehensive view of the complexities of society during his time. Trollope's writing is marked by its realism and attention to detail, making his works a valuable resource for understanding the nuances of Victorian literature.Anthony Trollope, a prolific Victorian author, drew inspiration from his own experiences working in the British Civil Service, giving his writing a unique insight into the workings of bureaucracy and government. His keen observations of human nature and society reflect a deep understanding of the complexities of Victorian life. Trollope's dedication to his craft and his ability to capture the essence of his time make him a notable figure in the literary world.I highly recommend 'The Complete Works of Anthony Trollope' to readers who enjoy immersive historical fiction and insightful social commentary. Trollope's keen observations and detailed character studies make his works an essential read for anyone interested in Victorian literature and the complexities of society during that era.

The Palliser novels are six novels, also known as the "Parliamentary Novels", by Anthony Trollope. The common thread is the wealthy aristocrat and politician Plantagenet Palliser and (in all but the last book) his wife Lady Glencora. The plots involve British and Irish politics in varying degrees, specifically in and around Parliament. Plantagenet Palliser is a main character in the Palliser novels. First introduced as a minor character in The Small House at Allington, one of the Barsetshire novels, Palliser is the heir presumptive to the dukedom of Omnium. Palliser is a quiet, hardworking, conscientious man whose chief ambition in life is to become Chancellor of the Exchequer. After an unwise flirtation with the married Lady Dumbello (daughter of Dr. Grantly and granddaughter of the Reverend Mr Harding from The Warden and Barchester Towers), he agrees to an arranged marriage with the great heiress of the day, the free-spirited, spontaneous Lady Glencora M'Cluskie. Table of Contents: Can You Forgive Her? Phineas Finn The Eustace Diamonds Phineas Redux The Prime Minister The Duke's Children Anthony Trollope (1815–1882) was one of the most successful, prolific and respected English novelists of the Victorian era. Some of his best-loved works, collectively known as the Chronicles of Barsetshire, revolve around the imaginary county of Barsetshire. He also wrote perceptive novels on political, social, and gender issues, and on other topical matters. Trollope's literary reputation dipped somewhat during the last years of his life, but he regained the esteem of critics by the mid-twentieth century.