Gumbo

You never forget your first true love. Tony Romano's life was torn apart at age fifteen when his father died. Intelligent, artistic, and charismatic, the happy-go-lucky kid was thrust into a new world too fast. Suddenly relocated from New Jersey to Belle Glade, Florida, he found himself being raised by the violent, merciless streets. Those streets seemed to be cursed, but right across the way lived a blessing. Cassidy Macklin was raised by her grandmother for most of her life.
Smart, creative, and kind-hearted, she does her utmost to prevent her circumstances from bringing her down. Reading helps her escape to a different life and place, even if only in her imagination, and Grandmama's soulful food is the balm that heals her heart and keeps her world afloat. It doesn't hurt that the new kid who moved in across the street is easy on the eyes and an interesting cover to a book she's yet to read. Tony and Cassidy form an instant connection, but darkness rears its head and things fall apart, bringing havoc and turmoil to their lives.
Years later, as adults, the two cross paths, and Tony is determined to win back his first love by any means necessary. They both must come to terms with the monsters of their past, the reality of their present, and the promise of the future. From USA Today bestselling author Tiana Laveen comes a coming-of-age, emotional scars, best friends-to-lovers romance packed with nostalgia, suspense, and passion.
Gumbo is a standalone novel with a HEA (Happily-ever-after). This book includes mature themes and content that may not be suitable for all audiences; reader discretion is advised. Please look inside for possible 'Trigger Warnings'."