ARC Review: Sunshine With You by Layna James

Okayyy, so let me tell y’all about Sunshine With You, the second book in the Fort Bender Series. This was my first read by her and babyyy, it will not be my last. I got my hands on this ARC and whew—this story was beautifully written and full of heart with the perfect lil' dash of drama.

This book had everything I needed:

Solid friendships that feel like home.

Just enough spice to make you fan yourself.

Some “wait, what?!” moments.

Random giggles.

Classic sunshine x grumpy energy.

And plenty of “Girl, forget them folks—including Grandpa! Choose you!” moments!

Ashlie, our leading lady, is that girl. Small town roots, L.A. glow-up, degree in hand—but sis is out here ignoring every flag thrown her way. Red and green. Her anxiety? Whew, it’s got her in a chokehold. She lives in her head rent-free, carrying the weight of her family’s expectations, all while lying to herself about not being in love with her best friend’s brother.

Now Hunter? This man right here. Smart, fine, got jokes for days—and he’s been Ashlie’s homie for five years because of his sister Kayla. But the whole time? Man’s been head over heels for Ashlie, just playing it cool. He’s fighting demons of his own but always, always shows up for her. Calms her storms like only he can.

But the gag is—they both suck at relationships and are top-tier actors when it comes to pretending they’re not in love with each other.

Then boom—enter Trevor. He’s feeling Ashlie heavy, and while he's a vibe and all… he ain’t Hunter. Let’s just keep it real. Hunter’s sitting back playing his role until he finally says, nah, I’m done frontin’ and everything shifts!

Oh, and did I mention they’re all in the same wedding?! Yeah. It’s giving messy and magical.

I’ve already said too much, but just know this—Sunshine With You is that book. If you haven’t read Some Kind of Forever (book one), go run it up on KU then follow up with this immediately after!

Rated a strong 4 stars from me. This one’s full of soul, sass, and everything we love about a well-written Black romance. Layna James did that!