It’s love month! And what better way to celebrate than with tales of love that transcend boundaries and illuminate the beauty of Black relationships. Carefully selected for their richness and authenticity, this collection proudly showcases the multifaceted expressions of love — free from Black trauma. Journey with us through the pages, where love is the focal point, and joy, truth and passion are the guiding threads.
Excuse Me While I Ugly Cry – Joya Goffney
Quinn, an avid list-maker, relies on her journals to keep her fears at bay until one goes missing. Blackmailed by an anonymous Instagram account that threatens to expose her deepest thoughts, she teams up with Carter Bennett to confront her fears head-on. As they navigate a journey through Quinn’s vulnerabilities, the two find not only the courage to face their fears but also discover the possibility of falling in love in the process.
Only for the Week – Natasha Bishop
You’re invited to the wedding of Amerie Cross and Arnold Hightower, with a surprising twist in the toast from maid of honor, Janelle Cross. Revealing herself as the woman secretly involved with the best man, Rome Martin, the unexpected love affair in Tulum was meant to be just a week-long fling. However, every kiss and stolen moment makes Janelle question if what happened in Tulum should really stay in Tulum.
Spin ‘Bout You – BriAnn Danae
Grayce, a hardworking beauty, finds herself short on time during the holiday season. While celebrating Friendsgiving in a cabin retreat with friends, she discovers an unexpected guest, Jarod, who insists he’s a friend she should keep. Jarod is determined to give Grayce plenty of reasons to get to know him better. The real question is, will Grayce be open to the unexpected twist, or will Jarod have to be more explicit about his intentions?
Seven Days in June – Tia Williams
Brooklynite Eva Mercy, a single mom and bestselling erotica writer, is caught off guard when reclusive literary author Shane Hall unexpectedly appears in New York. Sparks fly when they meet at a literary event, reigniting the passion from their teenage love affair twenty years earlier. Despite pretending that everything is fine, their chemistry is undeniable, and it’s revealed that they’ve been secretly writing to each other in their books. Over the course of seven days in a steamy Brooklyn summer, Eva and Shane reconnect, but trust issues linger, and Eva needs answers before Shane disappears again. The novel blends keen observations of Black life, modern motherhood, and the consequences of motherlessness, delivering a narrative that is humorous, warm, and deeply sensual.
By the Book – Jasmine Guillory
At twenty-five, living at home and feeling adrift as the sole Black employee at her publishing house, Isabelle seizes an opportunity to secure a promotion. Tasked with motivating jaded author Beau Towers at his Santa Barbara mansion, Izzy finds herself in over her head. As they work together, Izzy and Beau uncover unexpected common ground and shared struggles, realizing that the looming deadline might just be the catalyst for something even sweeter than a promotion.
Outdrawn – Deanna Gray
Noah Blue, having earned a coveted position after the success of her webcomic, finds herself on the brink of stardom with the relaunch of cult classic Queen Leisah. However, she must navigate the challenge of collaborating with Sage Montgomery, a talented artist whose career has plateaued. As they strive to appear as a cohesive team, the rivals discover that the real struggle lies in resisting the unexpected pull of love in this slow-burn sapphic romance set against the backdrop of the competitive world of comics.
When You Are Mine – Kennedy Ryan
Kerris Moreton, adept at making things work despite a challenging past, is on the verge of achieving her dreams. Set to open her own business and with a marriage proposal in the cards, she’s ready to embrace the life she has built. However, the only missing piece is a passionate connection with her fiancé, Cam. Kerris is skeptical about sparks until she encounters Walsh Bennett, who ignites a fire in her. Walsh, an eligible bachelor on the East Coast, is financially independent and dedicated to his family’s nonprofit, but his attention is increasingly drawn to Kerris, the woman he never expected to be his soul mate. The catch? His best friend found her first. “When You Are Mine” is the first book in a four-part series, followed by “Loving You Always,” “Be Mine,” and the upcoming release “Until I’m Yours” in May of this year.
The Art of Scandal – Regina Black
On the eve of her husband Matt’s fortieth birthday, Rachel Abbott receives an explicit text meant for another woman, signaling the end of their thirteen-year marriage. Facing an inevitable divorce, the couple strikes a deal to maintain appearances during Matt’s reelection campaign, with Rachel receiving a million dollars and their luxurious home.However, when Rachel meets the intriguing artist Nathan Vasquez, their connection challenges the facade, igniting a passionate affair that forces them to confront the risks of scandal and decide whether love is worth jeopardizing everything. “The Art of Scandal” is a provocative debut that explores rekindling passion, the transformative nature of art, and unexpected love.
I Almost Forgot About You – Terry McMillan
Despite having the appearance of an incredible life, Dr. Georgia Young feels stuck and restless. Taking a leap, she decides to make significant changes, including quitting her optometry job and relocating, leading her on a wild journey that might offer a second chance at love. Georgia’s story serves as a reminder that it’s never too late to pursue the life you desire, emphasizing the importance of facing fears, taking chances, and being open to new directions in life and love.
The Neighbor Favor – Kristina Forest
Lily Greene, feeling inadequate in her accomplished family, finds solace in corresponding with her favorite fantasy author. When their connection evolves into friendship, he unexpectedly ghosts her. Crushed but determined to take charge of her life, Lily seeks a wedding date and turns to her charming neighbor, Nick Brown, not realizing he is her favorite author. As Nick grapples with his own reasons for keeping his identity a secret, their shared history complicates the simple favor he agreed to, revealing an undeniable connection neither can ignore.
Where We Found Our Passion – Natasha Bishop
Separated for thirteen years since Olivia Harding chose her career over Kai Morris at nineteen, their unexpected reunion ignites unresolved feelings. Despite the wisdom of maintaining a professional distance, Kai finds himself unable to resist Olivia’s pull. Similarly, Olivia, grappling with the consequences of her past choices, is torn between her desire for Kai and the risks involved. As they navigate their complicated history and uncertain future, both wonder if forgiveness and reconciliation are possible amidst the tangled web of secrets and longing.
Reggie and Delilah’s Year of Falling – Elise Bryant
Delilah, adept at hiding her messy emotions behind a façade of indifference, reluctantly joins her friends’ punk band, though she’d rather linger in the shadows. Reggie, a secret Dungeons & Dragons enthusiast, conceals his true self to avoid familial disapproval. Their chance encounters on various holidays spark an unexpected connection, but as they fall for idealized versions of each other, the reality of their true selves threatens to unravel their budding romance.
Love Radio – Ebony LaDelle
In this blend of Hitch and The Sun Is Also a Star, seventeen-year-old Prince Jones, a self-proclaimed teen love doctor with a radio segment, sets out to win over Dani Ford, a girl who detests romance. Juggling dreams of becoming a DJ and caring for his family, Prince’s encounter with ambitious writer Dani sparks a romantic connection. However, Dani, focused on her future, gives Prince only three dates to prove he’s worth the risk, setting the stage for a potential life-changing romance.
