I was not into the book at the beginning because of some cringe-y dialogues. "Yeah, I have to be woke since you invited me to the cookout!" (and have that joke exchange repeated twice in the first half of the novel). But anyway, by the end of the novel - I found myself enjoying it. I think the subject of codependency should have been tackled more in-depth. I think that there were a lot of potential storylines but it was not fully fleshed out. Unlike the others who think the scenes with Jessa are unnecessary, I disagree. I think that would have been a fantastic opportunity to discuss interracial relationships - why do people assume inherently that it's the Black woman that *needs* to be amazing to deserve a White man? Like as if the White Man is a prize to be won by any black or people of color. To me, this would have bumped into four stars if their past friendships were explored instead of it being an exposition dump through a conflict at the end. Still, the commentary on how Black Women have to perform being calm and composed all the time to not be portrayed wrongly felt so real and was written very well. The way her parents *resolved* their ultimatum also felt shorthanded - like I felt like the writer wanted to expand but her publishers probably said they had to cut down on the length of the novel. However, if I wanted social commentary that are more fleshed out and at the forefront - I would have picked up a literary book or something else not this. Things don't have to be the most written out because then, it would not leave room for us (the readers) to interpret the text to our understanding! 

What actually made me feel like it was not a 5 star, was because (and this is what most of the romance books I've read have in common) the love interest is not developed. His life was mentioned as an exposition dump or in passing but it doesn't seem real (more distant!). I understand that romance is a fantasy but simply labeling him as a love interest don't actually convince me that he is a *good* love interest to pine/lust over. 

Definitely interested to read any other books by the author! Also can I just say, I am definitely okay with the realistic spice level. Of course they're not going to fuck every now and then when she's on a tight deadline with her competition! Stress fucking ain't romantic but "I masturbated in the shower for a full week and now I get to eat you out?" sex is very 10/10. 

Very cute fluffy romance with moments of being relatable! 

Just a note - listen I don't know who designed the cosplay costume for the cover but why did yall give our girl a Shein dress when the costume designs were written in such an amazing way?!