My The Grip Trilogy Book Review - No Spoilers
Plot Summary
I picked up The Grip Trilogy by Kennedy Ryan because I wanted a love story with depth, pain, and real social stakes—and this series delivered on every level. The trilogy follows Marlon “Grip” James, a rising hip-hop artist and poet, and Bristol Gray, his manager—and the sister of his best friend. What starts as a chance meeting and an unforgettable kiss at the top of a Ferris wheel grows into a love story that spans years, crosses every emotional boundary, and never lets up on the chemistry.
The narrative stretches from their intense first connection as young adults through the tumult and tension of building careers, fighting for love, and facing the world together. Grip and Bristol face every kind of obstacle: from family disapproval and old pain to cultural clashes and the razor edges of fame. Through music, heartbreak, long separations, and growth, the trilogy charts their transformation from friends to forever—no matter the cost. It’s a romance set against the backdrop of the music industry, fame, and the reality of life as a Black man in America loving a woman raised in privilege.
Why I Love This Book
I love how raw and unfiltered this trilogy feels. Kennedy Ryan doesn’t shy away from hard topics—race, privilege, family wounds, and the trauma of the world. Yet, the story is never just about the pain; it’s full of hope, joy, and the strongest sense of devotion I’ve read in a long time. Grip and Bristol’s chemistry jumps off every page. The slow-burn tension, the sacrifices, and all the ways they dare each other to love fiercely—every detail swept me up. I ached for Grip’s determination and Bristol’s struggle to open her heart, and I felt every setback and victory along the way.
What stands out most is the emotional honesty. There’s no easy path for these two—just a constant, hard-fought journey full of fierce arguments, passionate reconciliations, and genuine growth. The way the book tackles social justice, racism, and belonging makes the romance feel even more vital. The supporting cast, especially family members on both sides, add depth and conflict that feels authentic. These are not perfect people, but that made them more lovable—and I walked away from the series with a full heart (and, honestly, some tears).
Who Will Like This Book
If you want an interracial, high-angst love story with big emotional stakes and a slow-burn payoff, this trilogy is for you. If you appreciate contemporary romance with heavy doses of real-world issues, complex family ties, and character-driven plots, you’ll get lost in Grip and Bristol’s journey. Be aware—this series covers tough topics: racism, emotional trauma, violence, blackmail, child neglect, and more. The story is intense, sometimes gutting, and deeply moving. If you prefer light, fluffy romance, you might need a break in between books, but it’s worth every page.
⚠️ Trigger warning: The trilogy includes explicit sexual content, discussions of racism, racial profiling, gun violence, drugging, child loss, cheating, and trauma. Check full content warnings before starting if you have concerns.
Tagged As
contemporary romance, interracial romance, slow burn, soulmates, best friend’s sibling, music industry, poet hero, forced proximity, found family, trauma, explicit romance, social justice, grief, high angst, dual pov, fame, emotional healing, second chances, series, indie romance, kindle unlimited, HEA
Steam Level
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️Explicit
