Niobia Bryant's "Madam, May I" is a gripping and emotionally resonant novel that delves into the complexities of love, loss, and the pursuit of justice. Set against the backdrop of New Orleans, the novel follows the intertwining lives of four women whose fates are bound together by secrets, betrayal, and redemption.

One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in its richly drawn characters, each of whom is grappling with their own inner demons and struggles. From the fiercely independent Madam, who runs a high-end escort service, to the ambitious lawyer struggling to make partner, Bryant's characters leap off the page with depth and authenticity.

At the heart of the novel is the theme of female empowerment, as each woman navigates the challenges and obstacles that stand in the way of their dreams. Through their interconnected stories, Bryant explores issues of race, class, and gender with sensitivity and nuance, shining a light on the resilience and strength of women in the face of adversity.

"Madam, May I" is also notable for its evocative portrayal of New Orleans, a city steeped in history and tradition. Bryant brings the vibrant streets and sultry atmosphere of the French Quarter to life, immersing readers in a world of jazz music, Creole cuisine, and voodoo magic.

Moreover, the novel is a masterclass in suspenseful storytelling, as Bryant skillfully weaves together multiple plotlines that keep readers guessing until the very end. From shocking revelations to unexpected twists, "Madam, May I" is a page-turner that will leave readers on the edge of their seats.

Ultimately, "Madam, May I" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that offers a compelling exploration of the human experience. Its engaging characters, richly detailed setting, and gripping plot make it a must-read for anyone looking for a compelling story that will stay with them long after they've turned the final page. Whether you're a fan of mystery, romance, or contemporary fiction, "Madam, May I" has something for everyone, making it a book that deserves a place on every reader's shelf.

Imagine a world where secrets simmer beneath the surface, and the glittering facade of wealth hides a labyrinth of intrigue. Well, that’s exactly where this novel takes us.

Desdemona Dean, our heroine, is no ordinary woman. She’s a high-end madam, running an exclusive escort service for the elite. But don’t let the title fool you—this isn’t just about explicit encounters. No, my friend, it’s about power, choices, and the tangled web we weave.
Desi has it all: material wealth, a life of luxury, and a roster of clients who’d make your head spin. Yet, she wakes up bored and weary. There’s an emptiness gnawing at her, a void that no amount of silk sheets or champagne can fill. She’s a woman of secrets, living in shadows, and her real name? Well, that’s a mystery even her closest confidantes can’t crack.

Enter Loren, a tutor a decade younger, with a heart full of positivity and possibility. Their connection sparks something unexpected—a sexual relationship that transcends mere physicality. But life isn’t a fairy tale, my friend. Desi grapples with their differences, questioning what truly matters. Is it wealth, status, or something deeper?

As we journey through Desi’s past and present, we’re treated to thought-provoking backstory and transformation. Sure, Bryant’s writing might not always be flawless, but Desi’s complexity keeps us hooked. She’s the hook, the beating heart of this tale, and she rocks it.
So, grab a cup of tea, settle into your favorite reading nook, and let “Madam May I” whisk you away to a world where secrets collide, and choices define our destiny.

Madam May I introduces us to Desi Aka Miss Smith who is a high end Madam that takes very good care of her girls and guys that work for her due to how she was treated when she was a prostitute. Desi wants a better life for herself and the people that works for her.

I gave this a book a 4 star because we cant do half but this was actually 3 1/2 stars for me the storyline was ok but it was a little dry and predictable In my opinion, I have read other books by this author and this one was a miss for me. I am hoping the sequel to this book will be better.

This book was just ok for me. It did not grab me like other books from this author. Thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the ARC of this book in return for my honest review. Receiving the book in this manner had no bearing on my review.

I took my time with this book and am happy I did. In this story the reader is able to get in the head of Desdemona and understand why she's chosen to do what she does. This is by far my favorite book of Niobia's. Also, the sex scenes are not too overt.

I'd like to thank Netgalley and Dafina for the opportunity to read and review this book.

I'm sad to say, this was meh at best. I was sadly not invested in any of the characters or the plot. The steamy sex was alright, but it was well.. nothing more that interested me. I wanted it to, but from going deadly bored until 30% and half-bored the rest... it wasn't my cup of tea. But, it might be someone elses cup.

Read in two days! Hot, steamy, and full of wisdom.
Not for the faint of heart, as it does discuss taboo subjects.
Fans of Cydney Rax will definitely enjoy this and Niobia's other books.

I have been a fan of Niobia Bryant for over 10+ years. I love every book she has written, even her street literature. By far, this is the most complex, emotional, and heart breaking book she has written yet. In Madam, May I, we meet Desi. She is more than one person can handle at a time. Her life is so complex, where do you begin to peel the layers back. Being a Madam no longer appeals to Desi, yet she does not know what she wants to do with herself. There is one key element of her life that she would like to take care of. Enters Loren. Lo, is the friend that Desi did not know that she needed. I wish I could have given Desi all the hugs in the world, because she needed it. Madam, May I allows the readers to peak into the world of "courtesan" (new word alert). Who knew so many prominent people were in this line of "work" to fund their future. Madam, May I allows you to feel emotions and feelings that you have kept packed away and hoped to never unpack. Desi was a woman with a good heart, but lost her way because of lack of support. Madam, May I was a good read, but made me want to read more about Desi (the new and improved Desi). Download or grab a copy and get to reading.

Nioba Bryant does it again with this sexy page turner. Desdemona the main character will keep you engaged and wanting to find out will she continue to keep up the lifestyle she has built after struggling so hard to get where she is currently. The plot definitely had me wrapped in a trance and gave me just the amount of sexual tension needed through escapades and clientele she introduced from character to character.

Madam, May I
Niobia Bryant

Madam, May I is an urban fiction novel by Niobia Bryant. I’m new to this author so I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised.

Desdemona “Desi” Dean is a madam with a heart. She’s been mistreated so she vows to protect the men and women who work for her. Because she is embarrassed by her lack of education and poor reading skills, Desi hires Loren as her tutor. Loren is younger than Desi but that doesn’t stop the mutual attraction. However, Desi’s inability to be honest with Loren about her life and career does interfere in the budding relationship. Desi must now decide if she’s ready to live a “real” life.

Niobia Bryant has written a compelling story. Despite the obvious connotations brought on by the title, this is not a story of explicit sexual encounters. There are sex scenes, but the rest of the story is what’s most compelling. The characters are vibrant. The plot is engaging. Madam, May I is simply a great book. I rate it 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to anyone who enjoys urban fiction.

My thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.

Sigh...this was so goooood, I mean 🤯🤯😮 good! Desi’s journey & life was/is so messy complicated dramatic sensually exciting, and I couldn’t get enough 😊.

And Loren, ‘Lo’ 😩😩😩. Lo is all kinds of sexy, and beautiful as hell, inside &&&&& out 💪🏾❤️. #NiobiaBryant spun a character that you could reach out and touch feel lick 👅 and love, she is that brilliant 👏🏾👏🏾💜. Believe me when I tell you, Loren is that guy, whew!

I was enthralled with #MadamMayI, with its nail biting waiting for the other 🥾🥾 to drop suspense. It helped that the supporting cast showed up and showed out. I swear, I hatedddddd to see them go, haaaaated it 🙂.

So yeah, this is that 📖 you want to preorder now for its #28May release. And if you want your ⭕️ to continue to love you, I’d gift them with a copy also. Because you do not want them to find out you knew about this masterpiece and didn’t share, it won’t be a good look y’all 😏😁😁.

#ARC 💝

I don’t know what I expected from this books as it was a last second grab so I was surprised when I started it. Overall though I loved how it went. Thank you