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The Love & Music Suite #1
Spin the Block
Faking it is so much better the second time around.
Karris
Five years ago, I was the reigning princess of pop. Now, I’m a former boy band member’s ex. I’ve been in this business a long time, so I’ve developed a tough skin. But negative press is hijacking my fundraising campaign to save my performing arts high school in Atlanta from being demolished. Desperate times call for desperate measures. So to spin the story my way, I’ve asked celebrity DJ Ward Hughes to reprise his role as my fake boyfriend—a stunt we pulled in high school. But this time, Ward has demands.
Ward
I started out spinning records in underground clubs in Atlanta and rose to fame playing sets at legendary clubs and festivals all over the world. Ten years in, and I’m tired of grueling, international tours and living out of hotel rooms. I’m ready to shift gears and become a songwriter and record producer. But A-list artists are reluctant to work with an unproven writer and producer. Working on Karris’s comeback album will give me the chance to showcase my pen game and production skills while helping her make music with a soulful vibe that she was truly meant to sing.
But faking it as high school sweethearts who spin the block hits a little too close to home because nothing about our feelings has ever really been fake.
Karris
Five years ago, I was the reigning princess of pop. Now, I’m a former boy band member’s ex. I’ve been in this business a long time, so I’ve developed a tough skin. But negative press is hijacking my fundraising campaign to save my performing arts high school in Atlanta from being demolished. Desperate times call for desperate measures. So to spin the story my way, I’ve asked celebrity DJ Ward Hughes to reprise his role as my fake boyfriend—a stunt we pulled in high school. But this time, Ward has demands.
Ward
I started out spinning records in underground clubs in Atlanta and rose to fame playing sets at legendary clubs and festivals all over the world. Ten years in, and I’m tired of grueling, international tours and living out of hotel rooms. I’m ready to shift gears and become a songwriter and record producer. But A-list artists are reluctant to work with an unproven writer and producer. Working on Karris’s comeback album will give me the chance to showcase my pen game and production skills while helping her make music with a soulful vibe that she was truly meant to sing.
But faking it as high school sweethearts who spin the block hits a little too close to home because nothing about our feelings has ever really been fake.
- GenresRomance
234 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 15, 2024
About the author
Reese Ryan
180 books606 followersVivian Award-winning author Reese Ryan writes sexy, emotional, “grown folks” romantic fiction set in small Southern towns. Her characters find love while navigating career crises and family drama.
Reese's books have been featured on Entertainment Weekly, BuzzFeed, and BookRiot. She is the host of Story Behind the Story—her YouTube show where readers and authors connect.
Reese's books have been featured on Entertainment Weekly, BuzzFeed, and BookRiot. She is the host of Story Behind the Story—her YouTube show where readers and authors connect.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
March 17, 2024
This was absolutely a slow burn I almost couldn’t stand it. But it was so cute. They went to the same performing arts high school. They crushed on each other. She decided a fake dating plan so they could win homecoming queen and king. It worked but she dumped him and he’s been salty since. Fast forward 15 years or so her name is all over the tabloids and she needs his help again he agrees and surprisingly they build a new friendship that is organic. Can they work together without getting caught up? Can they get over what happened in the past? Will they be honest with themselves and each other? You’ll have to read the book to find out.
March 23, 2024
Reese Ryan’s Spin the Block was a fun, enjoyable read. Told in dual POVs, it’s the story of Karris Baker and Ward Hughes. Fifteen years ago, the two friends fake-dated in high school which ended in disaster, and the two no longer being friends. They went their separate ways where they conquered the music industry from different angles. Karris became known as the pop princess, while Ward became a world-renowned, highly sought-after record-spinning maestro, known as DJ War.
Karris seems to be the queen of fake dating, as she and her ex, former boy band member, Monte started out as a fake couple to boost his media stock. For her, faking became real, and the two dated for six years. During this time, Karris put her career on hold to boost his. Six months ago, Monte broke things off and has since started dating an up-and-coming rapper, whom he says is the love of his life. Karris hasn’t taken the breakup well. It doesn’t help that the media claims she’s done for in music, that she’s beyond heartbroken, and takes the most unflattering photos. Most of this is untrue. Karris may not have released an album in years, but music is still very important to her. She currently spends her time working to raise funds and awareness to keep her high school, Peachtree School of the Arts open.
Ward loves his job as DJ War. He’s traveled the world and has made a lot of money doing what he loves to do. However, deejaying wasn’t always his passion. He doesn’t want to leave the music industry behind, but his dream is actually to be behind the scenes. Ward wants to be a songwriter and producer. He just needs someone to believe in him and give him a chance.
Karris and Ward find themselves at a crossroads in their careers. With their older sisters being best friends, the sisters come up with the idea of the two faking it again. Karris will be seen as moving on with her life, and Ward’s stock value will go up. Ward’s best friend Cedrick has an even better idea. Not only will Karris and Ward fake date, but Ward could have Karris use some of his songs and sign on as talent for their newly formed record company, thus boosting Ward’s reputation as a songwriter/producer.
With time and maturity on both their parts, spending time together has them rediscovering their friendship, and that friendship leads to more. But the question becomes are they willing to risk their hearts, careers, and new friendship for a second chance at love?
I loved all the characters in Spin the Block. I might even have liked Monte. Karris and Ward were real, open, and honest with each other. Their friendship and love came naturally. Spin the Block was refreshing because there wasn’t the dark moment you usually see in romances. I loved that. It was a real-life love story, with no serious drama.
I mentioned Ward’s best friend, Cedrick. He happens to be the hero of the next book, Never the Right Time. The heroine of the book is also mentioned. A nice surprise was that one couple mentioned in the story has already had their story written. Amaya and Jet also went to the same high school as Karris and Ward. Their love story is told in Date for Hire, which is part of the Men for Hire series.
~ Favorite Quotes ~
“Your perfect guy will come along. Promise.”
“You are special. There is no one on this earth like you.”
**Received a copy from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.**
Karris seems to be the queen of fake dating, as she and her ex, former boy band member, Monte started out as a fake couple to boost his media stock. For her, faking became real, and the two dated for six years. During this time, Karris put her career on hold to boost his. Six months ago, Monte broke things off and has since started dating an up-and-coming rapper, whom he says is the love of his life. Karris hasn’t taken the breakup well. It doesn’t help that the media claims she’s done for in music, that she’s beyond heartbroken, and takes the most unflattering photos. Most of this is untrue. Karris may not have released an album in years, but music is still very important to her. She currently spends her time working to raise funds and awareness to keep her high school, Peachtree School of the Arts open.
Ward loves his job as DJ War. He’s traveled the world and has made a lot of money doing what he loves to do. However, deejaying wasn’t always his passion. He doesn’t want to leave the music industry behind, but his dream is actually to be behind the scenes. Ward wants to be a songwriter and producer. He just needs someone to believe in him and give him a chance.
Karris and Ward find themselves at a crossroads in their careers. With their older sisters being best friends, the sisters come up with the idea of the two faking it again. Karris will be seen as moving on with her life, and Ward’s stock value will go up. Ward’s best friend Cedrick has an even better idea. Not only will Karris and Ward fake date, but Ward could have Karris use some of his songs and sign on as talent for their newly formed record company, thus boosting Ward’s reputation as a songwriter/producer.
With time and maturity on both their parts, spending time together has them rediscovering their friendship, and that friendship leads to more. But the question becomes are they willing to risk their hearts, careers, and new friendship for a second chance at love?
I loved all the characters in Spin the Block. I might even have liked Monte. Karris and Ward were real, open, and honest with each other. Their friendship and love came naturally. Spin the Block was refreshing because there wasn’t the dark moment you usually see in romances. I loved that. It was a real-life love story, with no serious drama.
I mentioned Ward’s best friend, Cedrick. He happens to be the hero of the next book, Never the Right Time. The heroine of the book is also mentioned. A nice surprise was that one couple mentioned in the story has already had their story written. Amaya and Jet also went to the same high school as Karris and Ward. Their love story is told in Date for Hire, which is part of the Men for Hire series.
~ Favorite Quotes ~
“Your perfect guy will come along. Promise.”
“You are special. There is no one on this earth like you.”
**Received a copy from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.**
March 20, 2024
A delightful story
I absolutely enjoyed this second-chance career and romantic adventure for this pair. The musical aspects and the friends to enemies to full-fledged relationship story was nicely done.
I absolutely enjoyed this second-chance career and romantic adventure for this pair. The musical aspects and the friends to enemies to full-fledged relationship story was nicely done.
April 27, 2024
awesome and steamy
I really kind of liked the alternating first person accounts. It made for an interesting way to move the story. Great story as usual.
I really kind of liked the alternating first person accounts. It made for an interesting way to move the story. Great story as usual.
June 24, 2024
Very mild in the romance department
I wanted to like this story. It really had all the elements that make for a sweet contemporary romance, but it just fell flat to me. There was more telling than showing. There were particular scenes that I felt would have really moved the story more had it not been glossed over.
I didn't feel a lot of chemistry between the characters, although they were both likeable, the interactions were very surface level.
Although this story wasn't for me, I do think it would be enjoyable for readers that like a very mild romance with zero conflict and no deep emotional ties.
This was my first read from this author and I would try her work again.
I wanted to like this story. It really had all the elements that make for a sweet contemporary romance, but it just fell flat to me. There was more telling than showing. There were particular scenes that I felt would have really moved the story more had it not been glossed over.
I didn't feel a lot of chemistry between the characters, although they were both likeable, the interactions were very surface level.
Although this story wasn't for me, I do think it would be enjoyable for readers that like a very mild romance with zero conflict and no deep emotional ties.
This was my first read from this author and I would try her work again.
March 16, 2024
SPIN THE BLOCK is the first in Reese Ryan’s Love & Music Suite series. Singer Karris Baker and DJ Ward Hughes have history. Back in the day, their older sisters were best friends, and Karris and Ward agreed to a fake dating scheme that saw them crowned to homecoming court. Too bad the breakup afterwards brought all too real hurt.
Years later and smarting from unjustified and all too painful bad publicity, Karris approaches Ward to fake it again to help move her singing career in a new direction and launch Ward as a music writer/producer. Neither considers how their (still) all-too-real feelings come into play and change, well, everything.
Reese Ryan’s storytelling is top notch, and Karris and Ward and their pain and joy, nerves and passion are all brought fully to life in Spin the Block. It’s a delight getting a peek into this musical scene, and I cannot wait for more in this series and universe!
Years later and smarting from unjustified and all too painful bad publicity, Karris approaches Ward to fake it again to help move her singing career in a new direction and launch Ward as a music writer/producer. Neither considers how their (still) all-too-real feelings come into play and change, well, everything.
Reese Ryan’s storytelling is top notch, and Karris and Ward and their pain and joy, nerves and passion are all brought fully to life in Spin the Block. It’s a delight getting a peek into this musical scene, and I cannot wait for more in this series and universe!
March 31, 2024
Sweet Music
What a love story. You can never go wrong when two soul mates connect again.
Ward and Karis have always had love to each other, they just did not know how to show it to each other.
What a love story. You can never go wrong when two soul mates connect again.
Ward and Karis have always had love to each other, they just did not know how to show it to each other.
May 14, 2024
“Spin the Block” hits all the right notes!!
The queen of “grown folks” romance, Reese Ryan, has once again struck gold with her latest release, "Spin The Block." It’s the first of her new indie series, Love & Music Suite. This story gives us a second chance, fake dating plot between struggling pop sensation Karris Baker and DJ celebrity Ward Hughes. Following a bad breakup in high school that left Ward hurt and bitter, circumstances bring them back together to save their former school of the arts and elevate their careers.
Through skillful writing, Reese delivers a rich cast of supporting characters and paints a real-life picture of the music industry set in Atlanta. The story is filled with tender moments as Karris and Ward come to terms with their past and revive their connection. What sets this book apart is its focus on personal growth, healing, and honest communication, making it a refreshing read for those looking for a romance with low angst and low drama.
The slow-burn perfectly suited Karris and Ward's relationship, allowing for a gradual rekindling of trust through friendship, while not skimping on the steamy romantic encounters that eventually ensue.
As a huge fan of Reese’s work, I found "Spin The Block" to be a fun, enjoyable read and loved the creative freedom I felt from her as an indie author. I eagerly anticipate the next installment in the series.
The queen of “grown folks” romance, Reese Ryan, has once again struck gold with her latest release, "Spin The Block." It’s the first of her new indie series, Love & Music Suite. This story gives us a second chance, fake dating plot between struggling pop sensation Karris Baker and DJ celebrity Ward Hughes. Following a bad breakup in high school that left Ward hurt and bitter, circumstances bring them back together to save their former school of the arts and elevate their careers.
Through skillful writing, Reese delivers a rich cast of supporting characters and paints a real-life picture of the music industry set in Atlanta. The story is filled with tender moments as Karris and Ward come to terms with their past and revive their connection. What sets this book apart is its focus on personal growth, healing, and honest communication, making it a refreshing read for those looking for a romance with low angst and low drama.
The slow-burn perfectly suited Karris and Ward's relationship, allowing for a gradual rekindling of trust through friendship, while not skimping on the steamy romantic encounters that eventually ensue.
As a huge fan of Reese’s work, I found "Spin The Block" to be a fun, enjoyable read and loved the creative freedom I felt from her as an indie author. I eagerly anticipate the next installment in the series.
March 14, 2024
Reese Ryan is off to a great start with a brand series “The Love And Music Suite.” As usual Reese Ryan has done an awesome job as she puts pen to paper or fingers to the keyboard. Her characters are true to life, her plot is a captivating page turning adventure that held me captive. The main characters are Wade Harris who is a celebrity DJ and Karris Baker who is a former pop singer. These two have known each other for some time. When Karris and Wade were in high school the two faked dating and being in a relationship. Now that Wade and Karris are all grown up and have great careers in the music industry there are some ups and downs. Karris is in need of Wade’s helps with a project that she is working on. So, the two embark on a fake relationship just as they did while in high school. Karris and Wade both need each other for their careers. As the two are working together they soon learning that there is more to their fake relationship. This a great beginning to Reese Ryan’s new series with Karris and Wade having an opportunity for a second chance at romance with this fake relationship being the real deal. Way to Reese Ryan, can’t wait for the next book in this series.
I received an ARC via the Author Reese Ryan and I am leaving my review voluntarily. Thank you Reese Ryan.
I received an ARC via the Author Reese Ryan and I am leaving my review voluntarily. Thank you Reese Ryan.
August 18, 2024
I read this 200 page ebook in one sitting. It was so good. Grown folks having grown folks conversations. Sexiness while making music together. A man who makes sure his woman is taken care of, in or out of bed. A great sense of family and found family. And a great second chance for our main couple. What a great evening of reading this was!!
I also appreciated the Content Notes at the beginning of this book — thank you Reese — these always make me feel ‘safe’ to read your books.
Available on KU!
I also appreciated the Content Notes at the beginning of this book — thank you Reese — these always make me feel ‘safe’ to read your books.
Available on KU!
November 29, 2024
SPIN THE BLOCK
This is my first time reading this author's work, and I really enjoyed it. Spin the block is a story about second chances in music, romance, and finding love. Although there was some pushback, I love how Kariss and Ward let their guard down, and as mature adults built an open, honest friendship. The way they inspire each other through music was also a plus in them taking things to the next level in their budding relationship. Definitely recommend reading.
This is my first time reading this author's work, and I really enjoyed it. Spin the block is a story about second chances in music, romance, and finding love. Although there was some pushback, I love how Kariss and Ward let their guard down, and as mature adults built an open, honest friendship. The way they inspire each other through music was also a plus in them taking things to the next level in their budding relationship. Definitely recommend reading.
March 22, 2024
Second Chance!!!
Wade and Karris were in a fake relationship while in high school. Wade was all in at the time but Karris ended the relationship. Hurt feelings on Wade's part resulted in them not having any type of meaningful communication for 15 years. Due to some bad press, Karris finds herself in need of Wade's help again. Wade decides to help Karris when he realizes he needs her help as well. They start out rocky but after getting to know each other again as adults, a friendship develops which leads to love. This is a great second chance book with a good fake relationship storyline. Wade and Karris had me invested in their story from the very beginning. I'm glad that they redeveloped their friendship first so their reunion had a strong foundation. I also loved the update on Jet and Amaya from a previous book which was an excellent tie-in. I can't wait to read Ced and Anika's book after getting a sneak peek about them in this book. This is a good start to Ms. Ryan's new series that I highly recommend.
Wade and Karris were in a fake relationship while in high school. Wade was all in at the time but Karris ended the relationship. Hurt feelings on Wade's part resulted in them not having any type of meaningful communication for 15 years. Due to some bad press, Karris finds herself in need of Wade's help again. Wade decides to help Karris when he realizes he needs her help as well. They start out rocky but after getting to know each other again as adults, a friendship develops which leads to love. This is a great second chance book with a good fake relationship storyline. Wade and Karris had me invested in their story from the very beginning. I'm glad that they redeveloped their friendship first so their reunion had a strong foundation. I also loved the update on Jet and Amaya from a previous book which was an excellent tie-in. I can't wait to read Ced and Anika's book after getting a sneak peek about them in this book. This is a good start to Ms. Ryan's new series that I highly recommend.
March 30, 2024
Fake relationship, second chance, slow-burn romance.
Ward & Karris are great together. Lots of history with all the characters and lots of fun.
Ward & Karris are great together. Lots of history with all the characters and lots of fun.
April 4, 2024
I really enjoyed Spin the Block by Reese Ryan. This was a different read from her usual and she slayed it. Ward and Karris have a second chance at romance after their fake dating in high school. Ward is still bitter and Karris is still apologetic after all all this time.
When they decide to put differences aside and work together baby they are explosive. The chemistry admiration and love is still strong. Ward and Karris are fun, whitty, and light up any room they are in. I give this book a 4 ☕️☕️☕️☕️cups of tea rating. Great job Reese Ryan.
When they decide to put differences aside and work together baby they are explosive. The chemistry admiration and love is still strong. Ward and Karris are fun, whitty, and light up any room they are in. I give this book a 4 ☕️☕️☕️☕️cups of tea rating. Great job Reese Ryan.
March 23, 2024
Spin the block
This was a cute second chance mixed with an enemies to lovers love story. I loved how Karris and Ward allowed their guards to drop to allow them to get to know each other as adults and to build a genuine friendship they never got to have in high school. Their banter and chemistry were cute and I loved they were able to get it right.
This was a cute second chance mixed with an enemies to lovers love story. I loved how Karris and Ward allowed their guards to drop to allow them to get to know each other as adults and to build a genuine friendship they never got to have in high school. Their banter and chemistry were cute and I loved they were able to get it right.
March 22, 2024
Music Smooth
Spin the Block ,was a unique read giving us an in-depth look into the music industry. With a lesson in forgiveness, and a second chance at love. The characters were so well defined making it hard to not pull for them all to succeed. The siblings relationships really touched my heart. I am pulling for Ced can not wait for his story.
Spin the Block ,was a unique read giving us an in-depth look into the music industry. With a lesson in forgiveness, and a second chance at love. The characters were so well defined making it hard to not pull for them all to succeed. The siblings relationships really touched my heart. I am pulling for Ced can not wait for his story.
May 4, 2024
Spin The Block Indeed!!!
I’m so glad Karris and Ward got a second chance at love. He was so bitter and hurt because of the way things ended up between them in the past. They got their second chance when they agreed to work together in the studio. Their pretend relationship ended up being a real one. They fell in love with each other for real. I’m so looking forward to reading Ced’s story next in the series! Thank you Reese Ryan!! ❤️🔥
I’m so glad Karris and Ward got a second chance at love. He was so bitter and hurt because of the way things ended up between them in the past. They got their second chance when they agreed to work together in the studio. Their pretend relationship ended up being a real one. They fell in love with each other for real. I’m so looking forward to reading Ced’s story next in the series! Thank you Reese Ryan!! ❤️🔥
March 18, 2024
Great Take on Second Chance Love!
Reese Ryan has definitely come up with a unique take on Second Chance Romance by giving us two of my favorite things in one story: Love & Music. Karrisma “Karris” Baker and Wardell “Ward” Hughes are reunited in this story through the music industry. Karris, a singer and Ward, a popular DJ who wants to branch out into songwriting and producing have history. I enjoyed their “slow burn reunion”.
This story is a great first story for a promising suite of love & music.
Reese Ryan has definitely come up with a unique take on Second Chance Romance by giving us two of my favorite things in one story: Love & Music. Karrisma “Karris” Baker and Wardell “Ward” Hughes are reunited in this story through the music industry. Karris, a singer and Ward, a popular DJ who wants to branch out into songwriting and producing have history. I enjoyed their “slow burn reunion”.
This story is a great first story for a promising suite of love & music.
April 3, 2024
❤️❤️❤️😍😍😍
Yes, I'm so loving ❤️ this series is amazing, yessss it had me from beginning to end, and the characters have such good chemistry 🥰🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾 can't wait for the next one
Yes, I'm so loving ❤️ this series is amazing, yessss it had me from beginning to end, and the characters have such good chemistry 🥰🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾 can't wait for the next one
April 25, 2024
a beautiful second chance story
Loved how you developed the story by giving g the back story for both Ward and Karris. They were very real and the emotions felt real as well can’t wait for Ced’s story.
Loved how you developed the story by giving g the back story for both Ward and Karris. They were very real and the emotions felt real as well can’t wait for Ced’s story.
March 18, 2024
I enjoyed Spin the Block by Reese Ryan so much! It had me engaged from the very beginning to the end. Karris and Ward was amazing together. I enjoyed the storyline so much. I enjoyed the chemistry between Karris and Ward. There was so many heartfelt and emotional moments in the story. I learned alot about the music industry. Spin the Block was an amazing read and I can't wait for the next book in this series!
April 20, 2024
amazing
I wasn’t ready for this one to end. I needed to know more about their future. Thank goodness for second chance romance. Ward and Karris were made for each other. I loved the idea of the new record label with Ced and Ward. They make a great team. This was a good book and I really enjoyed reading it.
Happy Reading‼️
I wasn’t ready for this one to end. I needed to know more about their future. Thank goodness for second chance romance. Ward and Karris were made for each other. I loved the idea of the new record label with Ced and Ward. They make a great team. This was a good book and I really enjoyed reading it.
Happy Reading‼️
March 18, 2024
Really Enjoyed…
I really enjoyed this story. I loved Ward and Karris reconnecting and finally getting a chance at real love! I am a sucker for stories with the music industry and artists involved. So that was an added bonus for me. Highly recommend!
I really enjoyed this story. I loved Ward and Karris reconnecting and finally getting a chance at real love! I am a sucker for stories with the music industry and artists involved. So that was an added bonus for me. Highly recommend!
April 18, 2024
Loved this story!
Karris and Ward over came a lot! Their friendship was great and refreshing, the chemistry between them is amazing! The family bonds with them families are amazing. Happy that it tied in with her previous book! Can't wait to read her next book!
Karris and Ward over came a lot! Their friendship was great and refreshing, the chemistry between them is amazing! The family bonds with them families are amazing. Happy that it tied in with her previous book! Can't wait to read her next book!
March 21, 2024
If you are a fan of Second Chance romances you need to read this book! It is a great start to Reese Ryan’s new “The Love & Music Suite” series. Karris and Ward fake dated in high school and are ready to do it again. I didn’t know if I was going to like Karris. Was she a diva? Did she mistreat Ward? Was Ward going to be a jerk? Is he going to give Karris a hard time before agreeing to help her? Was it really fake dating? Did one of them catch feelings and was rejected? So many questions.
As I got to know my new friends, I realized that Karris and Ward were at the same place in life. Both were trying to break out of the boxes that they were put in to become the people they were meant to be. Karris is trying to break out of her pop princess cage. Ward wanted to be more than a DJ, he wanted to be a songwriter and producer. To achieve their career goals and save their performing arts high school, Karris and Ward are ready to start fake dating again. I quickly realized that there was more to Karris and Ward’s story. You can’t help but feel for them. What they saw as fake dating was two teenagers that were afraid to let each other know how they really felt about each other. This second chance forces them to be honest with themselves and each other. You cannot help but cheer them on as they rediscover their friendship and what they mean to each other. As the layers are peeled back, we get to see the sacrifices that Karris and Ward made in the past to get where they are now and how they shaped who they are today. (Side bar - Reese’s descriptions of the food were so descriptive, I could smell and taste the dishes.) This book introduced so many new characters that I cannot wait to read their stories in the books to come. You are going to enjoy Karris & Ward’s journey of self-discovery and their happily ever after.
I was given an arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
As I got to know my new friends, I realized that Karris and Ward were at the same place in life. Both were trying to break out of the boxes that they were put in to become the people they were meant to be. Karris is trying to break out of her pop princess cage. Ward wanted to be more than a DJ, he wanted to be a songwriter and producer. To achieve their career goals and save their performing arts high school, Karris and Ward are ready to start fake dating again. I quickly realized that there was more to Karris and Ward’s story. You can’t help but feel for them. What they saw as fake dating was two teenagers that were afraid to let each other know how they really felt about each other. This second chance forces them to be honest with themselves and each other. You cannot help but cheer them on as they rediscover their friendship and what they mean to each other. As the layers are peeled back, we get to see the sacrifices that Karris and Ward made in the past to get where they are now and how they shaped who they are today. (Side bar - Reese’s descriptions of the food were so descriptive, I could smell and taste the dishes.) This book introduced so many new characters that I cannot wait to read their stories in the books to come. You are going to enjoy Karris & Ward’s journey of self-discovery and their happily ever after.
I was given an arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 5, 2024
In SPIN THE BLOCK, we delve into a captivating new release that beautifully marries two enchanting themes: Love and Music. Reese Ryan's latest release is a unique take on the second chance romance, where two individuals are reunited in the backdrop of the vibrant music industry.
Karris Baker, a talented singer, and Wardell "Ward" Hughes, a popular DJ yearning to explore songwriting and producing, serve as the protagonists of this enticing story. Their past connection and the slow-burning reunion that unfolds is a delightful journey to witness.
At first, several questions might cloud your mind. Is Karris a diva? Did she ever mistreat Ward? Would Ward turn into a jerk? Were their feelings genuine during their fake dating stint? The myriad of questions only adds depth to their complex characters and keeps you hooked.
As the plot unravels, it becomes evident that both Karris and Ward are at similar crossroads in life. They are desperately trying to break free from the constraints of their professional lives and strive to become who they truly wish to be. Karris is battling her way out from the stereotypical image of a pop princess, while Ward aspires to expand his DJ career into songwriting and producing.
As their past sacrifices and challenges come to light, you get a closer look at their authentic selves and the journey that shaped them into who they are today. Great start to this series.
Full Books & Booze Review:https://www.midnightacebookbar.com/po...
Karris Baker, a talented singer, and Wardell "Ward" Hughes, a popular DJ yearning to explore songwriting and producing, serve as the protagonists of this enticing story. Their past connection and the slow-burning reunion that unfolds is a delightful journey to witness.
At first, several questions might cloud your mind. Is Karris a diva? Did she ever mistreat Ward? Would Ward turn into a jerk? Were their feelings genuine during their fake dating stint? The myriad of questions only adds depth to their complex characters and keeps you hooked.
As the plot unravels, it becomes evident that both Karris and Ward are at similar crossroads in life. They are desperately trying to break free from the constraints of their professional lives and strive to become who they truly wish to be. Karris is battling her way out from the stereotypical image of a pop princess, while Ward aspires to expand his DJ career into songwriting and producing.
As their past sacrifices and challenges come to light, you get a closer look at their authentic selves and the journey that shaped them into who they are today. Great start to this series.
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April 1, 2024
Quick Summary: A fake it until you make it romance
My Review: Spin the Block by Reese Ryan is book #1 in The Love and Music Suite series. It is a second chance love story.
About the Book: Timing is everything when it comes to relationships. When two former sweethearts with a troubled past enter into a fake dating scenario, they both learn what growth and gain are all about. Are they finally willing to take a chance and reveal the truth of their hearts?
My Final Say: There was so much to love about this story. The characters, from the leads to the supports, were easy to like and to make a connection with. The setting was perfect, especially when considering the industry angle. The unfortunate misunderstanding and conflict points were realistic. The emotional arc was on point. The MMC/FMC progression toward maturity was believable. This was a solid read.
Other: I am very much looking forward to reading more from this series. Readers who enjoy right time/right place/right person romances should really like this novel.
* This would translate well as an audiobook. I would love to take a listen.
Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Series: Yes
Status/Level: 🍬🌶
Appreciation is extended to the author/publisher. Thank you for granting access to a digital ARC of this title. The words I have voluntarily shared are my own.
My Review: Spin the Block by Reese Ryan is book #1 in The Love and Music Suite series. It is a second chance love story.
About the Book: Timing is everything when it comes to relationships. When two former sweethearts with a troubled past enter into a fake dating scenario, they both learn what growth and gain are all about. Are they finally willing to take a chance and reveal the truth of their hearts?
My Final Say: There was so much to love about this story. The characters, from the leads to the supports, were easy to like and to make a connection with. The setting was perfect, especially when considering the industry angle. The unfortunate misunderstanding and conflict points were realistic. The emotional arc was on point. The MMC/FMC progression toward maturity was believable. This was a solid read.
Other: I am very much looking forward to reading more from this series. Readers who enjoy right time/right place/right person romances should really like this novel.
* This would translate well as an audiobook. I would love to take a listen.
Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Series: Yes
Status/Level: 🍬🌶
Appreciation is extended to the author/publisher. Thank you for granting access to a digital ARC of this title. The words I have voluntarily shared are my own.
June 25, 2025
A second chance, he fell first, friends to lovers, feel good book.
Karris is a singer who is in a slump. Her thriving singing career has hit a stop because she’s invested all of her energies in promoting her ex-fiancé career. He leaves her when he’s on top and all social media and bloggers note it when he finds a new younger rapper to take up with. Karris has been in the business for 15 years and is evaluating where she wants to go.
Ward is a well known DJ, who was hurt by Karris in a fake dating scheme in high school. He’s still carrying the hurt. He also is at a crossroads in his career. He wants to go into songwriting and production so he opens a record studio with his best friend Ced.
This brings us to the plot. Since fake dating worked for them in high school, they decide to spin the block again. Of course they end up falling for each other and we’re along for the ride as they do.
A feel good book about friends and family, a love of music and people coming together for a good time. This is a sleeper book that more people should be reading! It’s part one of a four part series so I will be finishing the series. Borrowed this from Kindle Unlimited.
Karris is a singer who is in a slump. Her thriving singing career has hit a stop because she’s invested all of her energies in promoting her ex-fiancé career. He leaves her when he’s on top and all social media and bloggers note it when he finds a new younger rapper to take up with. Karris has been in the business for 15 years and is evaluating where she wants to go.
Ward is a well known DJ, who was hurt by Karris in a fake dating scheme in high school. He’s still carrying the hurt. He also is at a crossroads in his career. He wants to go into songwriting and production so he opens a record studio with his best friend Ced.
This brings us to the plot. Since fake dating worked for them in high school, they decide to spin the block again. Of course they end up falling for each other and we’re along for the ride as they do.
A feel good book about friends and family, a love of music and people coming together for a good time. This is a sleeper book that more people should be reading! It’s part one of a four part series so I will be finishing the series. Borrowed this from Kindle Unlimited.
January 13, 2026
This book is amazing
I really liked how the story developed - nice and slow. It isn't rushed at all, just the right pace for the story development. I love black love and Ward and Karris excude and carry it well. The level of vulnerability captured and their playfulness is so well written. No struggle love and there's an emphasis on healing before getting into a relationship - seeing a therapist and general mental health. The ability to write so authentically and organic about a relationship is a mastery of penmanship which is rare to find.
Again, it is so well written and I could barely work trying to finish this book. It is predictable as all HEA book are but it is all just part of their story. Looking forward to reading Ced's story which is teased at the end. I loved it!
I really enjoyed it. I totally recommend it to all.
I really liked how the story developed - nice and slow. It isn't rushed at all, just the right pace for the story development. I love black love and Ward and Karris excude and carry it well. The level of vulnerability captured and their playfulness is so well written. No struggle love and there's an emphasis on healing before getting into a relationship - seeing a therapist and general mental health. The ability to write so authentically and organic about a relationship is a mastery of penmanship which is rare to find.
Again, it is so well written and I could barely work trying to finish this book. It is predictable as all HEA book are but it is all just part of their story. Looking forward to reading Ced's story which is teased at the end. I loved it!
I really enjoyed it. I totally recommend it to all.
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