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lylesgirl2020's Reviews (350)
First, huge thanks to Jaynhi Allen and NetGalley for the ARC and the opportunity to dive into this story.
One of my favorite quotes from this story-“I’m already burning in her flames. And no matter how hard I try, I don’t think I’ll ever find my way out.”
This is my first read by Jaynhi Allen and from the first page, I knew this book was going to be a wild ride—twisty, unpredictable, and unlike anything I’d read before. I dove in without reading much about it beforehand, the cover is what drew me in and honestly, I’m so glad I did. The story hit harder that way. What starts as a classic marriage-of-convenience and fake dating trope quickly veers into darker, more dangerous territory. There's an edge to everything—the characters, the chemistry, the stakes.
Leona and Selorm’s relationship is anything but typical. It’s magnetic, chaotic, and at times, had me genuinely questioning if they could make it through. But that’s what made it so gripping. Once they collided, it was over. The spark was lit—and neither of them stood a chance.
I thought Leona was initially the obvious star of the story—beautiful, strong, determined, always in control—it was Selorm who quietly stole the show for me. He might come from humble beginnings, but he held his own with strength, intelligence, and an unwavering calm. The sunshine boy drawn into Leona’s storm, he fell hard and fast, and it was captivating to read. Their love was far from perfect, a bit dysfunctional at times, but rooted in mutual respect. And somehow, that made it work.
From start to finish this story had me in a chokehold. The letters throughout added a touch of mystery, teasing the future and kept me wondering what came next.
And the setting? Yes!! Absolutely stunning!! Set in Africa, the story is rich with culture, color, and cuisine—vibrant and immersive in a way that felt breathtaking. As a black woman I don’t see enough of this in mainstream romance, and it was such a welcome change.
I'd definitely recommend it to my book girlies!
One of my favorite quotes from this story-“I’m already burning in her flames. And no matter how hard I try, I don’t think I’ll ever find my way out.”
This is my first read by Jaynhi Allen and from the first page, I knew this book was going to be a wild ride—twisty, unpredictable, and unlike anything I’d read before. I dove in without reading much about it beforehand, the cover is what drew me in and honestly, I’m so glad I did. The story hit harder that way. What starts as a classic marriage-of-convenience and fake dating trope quickly veers into darker, more dangerous territory. There's an edge to everything—the characters, the chemistry, the stakes.
Leona and Selorm’s relationship is anything but typical. It’s magnetic, chaotic, and at times, had me genuinely questioning if they could make it through. But that’s what made it so gripping. Once they collided, it was over. The spark was lit—and neither of them stood a chance.
I thought Leona was initially the obvious star of the story—beautiful, strong, determined, always in control—it was Selorm who quietly stole the show for me. He might come from humble beginnings, but he held his own with strength, intelligence, and an unwavering calm. The sunshine boy drawn into Leona’s storm, he fell hard and fast, and it was captivating to read. Their love was far from perfect, a bit dysfunctional at times, but rooted in mutual respect. And somehow, that made it work.
From start to finish this story had me in a chokehold. The letters throughout added a touch of mystery, teasing the future and kept me wondering what came next.
And the setting? Yes!! Absolutely stunning!! Set in Africa, the story is rich with culture, color, and cuisine—vibrant and immersive in a way that felt breathtaking. As a black woman I don’t see enough of this in mainstream romance, and it was such a welcome change.
I'd definitely recommend it to my book girlies!
Thank you to Natasha Smith for writing this book and sharing it with the world! I'm purchasing a physical copy! Thank you Netgalley for the audio book!
Listening to this book felt like being seen, heard, and gently guided through the emotional storm so many of us know too well—but don’t always have the words for. The author didn’t just touch on grief from losing a loved one; she opened the door to a broader, deeper understanding of what it means to carry grief as a woman of color.
She spoke on racial grief—something we often keep buried, unsure if it’s “okay” to name it. But here, it’s named. It’s honored. And through her personal stories, you begin to feel like maybe… just maybe… it’s safe for you to start unpacking your own.
What made this journey even more powerful was the way she pointed back to God—not in a preachy way, but in a real, raw, and relatable way. Sometimes, when the weight of it all creeps back in, looking up and leaning into faith might just be the thing that steadies you.
This audiobook is not just informative—it’s soul work. It's a companion for those moments when grief feels like too much, especially in the quiet, seasonal waves that sneak in. I’d absolutely recommend listening with a Bible nearby. Let it be a part of your healing rhythm, your coping toolkit, your sacred space to feel and be held.
Listening to this book felt like being seen, heard, and gently guided through the emotional storm so many of us know too well—but don’t always have the words for. The author didn’t just touch on grief from losing a loved one; she opened the door to a broader, deeper understanding of what it means to carry grief as a woman of color.
She spoke on racial grief—something we often keep buried, unsure if it’s “okay” to name it. But here, it’s named. It’s honored. And through her personal stories, you begin to feel like maybe… just maybe… it’s safe for you to start unpacking your own.
What made this journey even more powerful was the way she pointed back to God—not in a preachy way, but in a real, raw, and relatable way. Sometimes, when the weight of it all creeps back in, looking up and leaning into faith might just be the thing that steadies you.
This audiobook is not just informative—it’s soul work. It's a companion for those moments when grief feels like too much, especially in the quiet, seasonal waves that sneak in. I’d absolutely recommend listening with a Bible nearby. Let it be a part of your healing rhythm, your coping toolkit, your sacred space to feel and be held.
Quasim 2: King Inferno by Jahquel J = STRAIGHT PRESSURE! But y'all already know that Jahquel don't miss!
This book ain’t just fire—it’s a full-blown experience. I was cryin’, clutchin’ my chest, and seeking a therapist by chapter 3. Jahquel had me locked in, like chokehold locked in!
QUASIM?! MY MAN MY MAN MY MAAAAN!!! Ahnt ahnt..no need to debate! Let's just move along... lol
Big stepper energy. Big emotions. Big love. The way Jahquel writes? Whew. You feel every damn word.
And that playlist? Are You Gone Already by Nicki Minaj and Heaven by Beyoncé! Wheew already triggering but the way Jahquel did that...I will never be the same. EVER.
100/5 stars. Don’t pull up thinkin’ it’s just romance—this one comes with heat, heartbreak, and heavy feels. But, again we all know this goes.
READ. IT. NOW.
This book ain’t just fire—it’s a full-blown experience. I was cryin’, clutchin’ my chest, and seeking a therapist by chapter 3. Jahquel had me locked in, like chokehold locked in!
QUASIM?! MY MAN MY MAN MY MAAAAN!!! Ahnt ahnt..no need to debate! Let's just move along... lol
Big stepper energy. Big emotions. Big love. The way Jahquel writes? Whew. You feel every damn word.
And that playlist? Are You Gone Already by Nicki Minaj and Heaven by Beyoncé! Wheew already triggering but the way Jahquel did that...I will never be the same. EVER.
100/5 stars. Don’t pull up thinkin’ it’s just romance—this one comes with heat, heartbreak, and heavy feels. But, again we all know this goes.
READ. IT. NOW.
Whewww baybeee, that damn Solana was a whole experience — she had me clutchin' my imaginary pearls and shoutin’ “GIRL, NOOOO” like every other page! She was moving wild, but honestly? I can’t even blame her. Sis was set up from the very beginning. She ain’t never had a fair shot — just a lil’ pawn in Beatrice’s evil ass game. And Beatrice? OH she was straight diabolical! Like, villain-villain. She got everything that was comin’ to her and I was front row clappin’!
Now let’s talk about my man Trill real quick — whew chileeee that man had me in a chokehold. He was givin’ grown, sexy, protector energy! He saw right through Solana’s mess and wasn’t afraid to call it out. Like, “Nah baby, we not doin’ that today.” And guess what? Sis needed that. Needed HIM. And the way he loved her? Cared for her? SPOILED her emotionally?? Gahhh, I was cheesin’ so hard!
Seeing Solana finally get the love she deserved had me grinning like a proud auntie. I was over here like, “YES MA’AM!! YOU BETTER GET THAT GOOD LOVE!” Ohhhh and let's not the damn artwork. It was giving everything. Ugh, I’m obsessed and can't wait for my physical copy!
Now let’s talk about my man Trill real quick — whew chileeee that man had me in a chokehold. He was givin’ grown, sexy, protector energy! He saw right through Solana’s mess and wasn’t afraid to call it out. Like, “Nah baby, we not doin’ that today.” And guess what? Sis needed that. Needed HIM. And the way he loved her? Cared for her? SPOILED her emotionally?? Gahhh, I was cheesin’ so hard!
Seeing Solana finally get the love she deserved had me grinning like a proud auntie. I was over here like, “YES MA’AM!! YOU BETTER GET THAT GOOD LOVE!” Ohhhh and let's not the damn artwork. It was giving everything. Ugh, I’m obsessed and can't wait for my physical copy!
First read of the month. Romantic Thriller..BOOM here you go!
Semajay and Neve came into each other’s lives right when they both needed somebody real. Semajay was out here tryna learn how to love again, and Neve? Babyyy, she slid in and melted that frozen heart like butter on hot pavement! On the flip side, Neve needed that healing energy and that protector vibe — and Semajay came through like a whole KING.
The vibe? Top-tier. The chemistry? Insane. And the passionate scenes?? Whewww chile, I needed a fan! These two had me in my feels and in my business all at once.
This was the perfect romantic thriller. Semajay got his lick back for not one, but two different reasons — and the dramaaa that came with it?? So satisfying. Like yes, get your justice, king!
And now?? Wynta Tyme got me deep-diving through her whole catalog! She really out here writing bangers and takin' names. I'm locked in. Can’t wait to see what she drops next!
Semajay and Neve came into each other’s lives right when they both needed somebody real. Semajay was out here tryna learn how to love again, and Neve? Babyyy, she slid in and melted that frozen heart like butter on hot pavement! On the flip side, Neve needed that healing energy and that protector vibe — and Semajay came through like a whole KING.
The vibe? Top-tier. The chemistry? Insane. And the passionate scenes?? Whewww chile, I needed a fan! These two had me in my feels and in my business all at once.
This was the perfect romantic thriller. Semajay got his lick back for not one, but two different reasons — and the dramaaa that came with it?? So satisfying. Like yes, get your justice, king!
And now?? Wynta Tyme got me deep-diving through her whole catalog! She really out here writing bangers and takin' names. I'm locked in. Can’t wait to see what she drops next!
Chaos, drama, and straight-up disrespect.
Javier Torres a grimy snake—the level of audacity. Started a war with the Delucas and used his sons, Savant & Angel, like pawns. Triflin’.
Savant came outta retirement thinking he was getting revenge. Instead? Triggered a whole war snatching Neari’s daughter and Aurmoni. Now Bankston Deluca want all the smoke.
Azeira baby girl is not built for this life. And if she finds out why Savant really came back? She might end him before the streets do.
Aurmoni stood ten toes down. Protected Neari’s daughter like a boss. No fear, no folding.
Neari fumbled trusting the Torres, and Drea? Came loud, messy, and ended up snaking her own blood. Whew chiiile'.
Aria? Glowed UP. Bankston & Aurmoni? That ride-or-die love hit different. But Lena? Girl, you foul for selling out your bestie. I would've bopped her too! And Dante choosing her over Bankston? Yeah… we side-eyeing.
Giovanni showed a tiny bit of heart with Isobella’s illness, but when Bankston found out the truth? He lost it. Now Giovanni’s at the point of no return—and with the Torres wildin’?
That ending was a hot, bloody mess—and I LOVED it. Brickhouse did it AGAIN! Nobody’s safe. Not Lena. Not Aurmoni. Not a soul.
Oh yeah! YN's UP because yeah...BRAZE!
Javier Torres a grimy snake—the level of audacity. Started a war with the Delucas and used his sons, Savant & Angel, like pawns. Triflin’.
Savant came outta retirement thinking he was getting revenge. Instead? Triggered a whole war snatching Neari’s daughter and Aurmoni. Now Bankston Deluca want all the smoke.
Azeira baby girl is not built for this life. And if she finds out why Savant really came back? She might end him before the streets do.
Aurmoni stood ten toes down. Protected Neari’s daughter like a boss. No fear, no folding.
Neari fumbled trusting the Torres, and Drea? Came loud, messy, and ended up snaking her own blood. Whew chiiile'.
Aria? Glowed UP. Bankston & Aurmoni? That ride-or-die love hit different. But Lena? Girl, you foul for selling out your bestie. I would've bopped her too! And Dante choosing her over Bankston? Yeah… we side-eyeing.
Giovanni showed a tiny bit of heart with Isobella’s illness, but when Bankston found out the truth? He lost it. Now Giovanni’s at the point of no return—and with the Torres wildin’?
That ending was a hot, bloody mess—and I LOVED it. Brickhouse did it AGAIN! Nobody’s safe. Not Lena. Not Aurmoni. Not a soul.
Oh yeah! YN's UP because yeah...BRAZE!
Kai & Vanna! Kai & Vanna! Kai & Vanna!
Y’all already know I love them DOWN! At this point, it’s beyond a contract—it’s about respect. Robin got this series in a chokehold, and I’m not tryna come up for air!
Let’s talk real quick…
Savannah out here fighting for her peace, her baby, and her man. Pregnancy stress, daddy drama, and a shady godfather? She can’t catch a break. But best believe, Kai got her—and he always gon' handle it.
Kai...my ninja tired of folks playing on his top. Moe, Ty, Keenan—he ready to show everybody why he’s not the one OR the two. Legacy on the line and Vanna on his heart. He moving different and I’m HERE for it.
Jada!! Biiiiiih is you cool? Babygirl walked into a trap she set herself—love that for her. Thought Kai was gonna save her? Sike. Vanna let her know the countdown started. Tick tock.
Monet & O? I’m loving their vibe & really root in' for them! She standing on business and pushing him to be better. Grown woman energy.
Certified F-boy, I mean Keenan. He want his cake and eat it too—boy bye. Came for Kai with that weak song, but the get back? Iconic. Public embarrassment at its finest. Julius airing ALL that man’s dirty laundry? Whew. I was GAGGED.
Robin really doing her BIG ONE. I’m looking for the finale like it’s lost in the daytime with a flashlight!
Y’all already know I love them DOWN! At this point, it’s beyond a contract—it’s about respect. Robin got this series in a chokehold, and I’m not tryna come up for air!
Let’s talk real quick…
Savannah out here fighting for her peace, her baby, and her man. Pregnancy stress, daddy drama, and a shady godfather? She can’t catch a break. But best believe, Kai got her—and he always gon' handle it.
Kai...my ninja tired of folks playing on his top. Moe, Ty, Keenan—he ready to show everybody why he’s not the one OR the two. Legacy on the line and Vanna on his heart. He moving different and I’m HERE for it.
Jada!! Biiiiiih is you cool? Babygirl walked into a trap she set herself—love that for her. Thought Kai was gonna save her? Sike. Vanna let her know the countdown started. Tick tock.
Monet & O? I’m loving their vibe & really root in' for them! She standing on business and pushing him to be better. Grown woman energy.
Certified F-boy, I mean Keenan. He want his cake and eat it too—boy bye. Came for Kai with that weak song, but the get back? Iconic. Public embarrassment at its finest. Julius airing ALL that man’s dirty laundry? Whew. I was GAGGED.
Robin really doing her BIG ONE. I’m looking for the finale like it’s lost in the daytime with a flashlight!
Talk about KARMA, baby… whew! I LOVE a good fairytale retellin!
Queenhie? Yeah, she got all her karma served hot, messy, and with no sides. And I was front row watching it all go down like, “Yup, that’s what you get!” Every shady move she made? Came right back to bite—and honestly? I was LIVING for it.
Now let’s get into the real tea—Ryker and Ballad? Chef’s kiss. Their journey was messy, raw, and full of emotion, but the way they came out on top? I was clapping and cheesin’ like a proud auntie.
BUT BABY, let’s talk about Nori and Champion. That love? That real, deep, soul-connected kind of love? Yeah, that hit different. Their bond was strong, unshakable, and wrapped in so much truth. They proved that when love is at the core of your heart, no lie, no drama, no hater in sight can break that connection. That’s grown love. That’s solid.
This book was full of twists, payback, and passion—and the way everything aligned in the end? So satisfying. I ate it up and I’m still full!
Queenhie? Yeah, she got all her karma served hot, messy, and with no sides. And I was front row watching it all go down like, “Yup, that’s what you get!” Every shady move she made? Came right back to bite—and honestly? I was LIVING for it.
Now let’s get into the real tea—Ryker and Ballad? Chef’s kiss. Their journey was messy, raw, and full of emotion, but the way they came out on top? I was clapping and cheesin’ like a proud auntie.
BUT BABY, let’s talk about Nori and Champion. That love? That real, deep, soul-connected kind of love? Yeah, that hit different. Their bond was strong, unshakable, and wrapped in so much truth. They proved that when love is at the core of your heart, no lie, no drama, no hater in sight can break that connection. That’s grown love. That’s solid.
This book was full of twists, payback, and passion—and the way everything aligned in the end? So satisfying. I ate it up and I’m still full!
Kaya was in her my man, my man, my man era—until that ninja was singing love songs to somebody else. Devastation hit her like a freight train.
Her bestie said: the cure = somethin new! So sis did her Keri Hilson and danced into a one-night stand…
Only to realize: the DTB and did nothing for the ache in her heart. Kaya was tired—tired of the hurt, tired of being used…just tired!
Enter Taj.
Not one of them ones. He came to love her down—the soft, intentional, sun-on-your-skin kind of love. And babyyyy, I felt it!
It was the sunflowers for woman who deserves to feel the sun again that had me swoonin'!
I usually love a lil’ madness and mess, but this story showed me the real flex is healing, peace, and being loved properly. Kaya deserved that. And Taj? Whew. He delivered.
Kiriah’s pen is wonderful!
Her bestie said: the cure = somethin new! So sis did her Keri Hilson and danced into a one-night stand…
Only to realize: the DTB and did nothing for the ache in her heart. Kaya was tired—tired of the hurt, tired of being used…just tired!
Enter Taj.
Not one of them ones. He came to love her down—the soft, intentional, sun-on-your-skin kind of love. And babyyyy, I felt it!
It was the sunflowers for woman who deserves to feel the sun again that had me swoonin'!
I usually love a lil’ madness and mess, but this story showed me the real flex is healing, peace, and being loved properly. Kaya deserved that. And Taj? Whew. He delivered.
Kiriah’s pen is wonderful!
Babyyyy the way I sat there STUNNED, mouth wide open at the end… like WHEW, I wasn’t ready!!
This my first Brickhouse read and I love it over here! I’m sooo hyped for Book 2 — like, that release date needs to get here NOW. Brickhouse really got a masterpiece on her hands, okay?! The drama, the intrigue, the chemistry between these characters?? Chef’s kiss ain’t even enough — it was giving fire on every page!
If you’re into that enemies-to-lovers heat like I am, you’re gonna eat this up. I was rootin’ for Aurmoni and Bankston from the very first lil’ scuffle… whewww the tension was too good! And don’t even get me started on her bestie Lena, who can’t stand Bankston either — add her in the mix and babyyyy, the drama?? Elite.
I don’t want to say to much or give spoilers, so I’m just gon’ say this: READ. THIS. BOOK. Like, for real. I’m all the way invested and patiently (but not really) waitin’ for part 2 because this story got me in a chokehold!
This my first Brickhouse read and I love it over here! I’m sooo hyped for Book 2 — like, that release date needs to get here NOW. Brickhouse really got a masterpiece on her hands, okay?! The drama, the intrigue, the chemistry between these characters?? Chef’s kiss ain’t even enough — it was giving fire on every page!
If you’re into that enemies-to-lovers heat like I am, you’re gonna eat this up. I was rootin’ for Aurmoni and Bankston from the very first lil’ scuffle… whewww the tension was too good! And don’t even get me started on her bestie Lena, who can’t stand Bankston either — add her in the mix and babyyyy, the drama?? Elite.
I don’t want to say to much or give spoilers, so I’m just gon’ say this: READ. THIS. BOOK. Like, for real. I’m all the way invested and patiently (but not really) waitin’ for part 2 because this story got me in a chokehold!