Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Make it Last Forever

Rate this book
Yazmeen Franklin is as green as they come. Her only real friend is her older sister, who raised her after their mother died. Because of their father’s poor example, Yazmeen has little trust in men, so dating is foreign to her. During her sophomore year of college, she lets her guard down and finally gets close to a man. However, he is a known womanizer, and she keeps him in the friend zone to protect her heart.

For Bronx Ravens, being a college basketball star has many advantages, and the one he enjoys most is the access to a plethora of women. He has no immediate plans to settle down with one woman but finds himself falling for Yazmeen, who’d put him in the friend zone. Instead of pressuring her for something more, he plays his position and continues to play the field.

When Bronx signs a professional basketball contract overseas, he and Yazmeen remain close. She pushes the idea of ever having a romantic relationship with him to the back of her mind because their friendship is much more important.

Bronx knows he’s not ready for a serious commitment, so he follows Yazmeen’s lead.

Two years later, Bronx returns to Onyx City to secure the heart of the only woman he’s ever loved but finds that moving from friends to lovers isn’t as easy as he thought. The couple is thrown one obstacle after another, and doubt begins to creep in. Are Yazmeen and Bronx better off as friends, or is the love they share strong enough to last forever?

217 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 11, 2024

210 people are currently reading
113 people want to read

About the author

Kay Shanee

67 books489 followers
Welcome to Kay Shanee's Reading Korner
Kay is forty something wife and mother, born and raised in the Midwest. During the day, she is a high school teacher. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends. Her favorite pastime is reading and writing romance novels about the dopeness of BLACK LOVE.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
346 (55%)
4 stars
176 (28%)
3 stars
86 (13%)
2 stars
11 (1%)
1 star
4 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
Profile Image for Annette Williams.
1,191 reviews412 followers
March 22, 2024
Ask and you shall receive. In my review for Hate Our Love, I mentioned wanting a book on Yazmeen and Bronx and Kay Shanee more than delivered. But, ma’am, who asked for all this drama?!!! You gotta see me cause, I am STREEEEEEEESSED! 😵‍💫😵‍💫😵‍💫 Whew!

Bronx and Yazmeen’s friendship is still going strong but, they ain’t foolin’ nobody. These two are so in love with each other but, Bronx still isn’t sure if he can give up his heauxish ways and be 100% faithful to Yazmeen. So, until he’s able to make that leap, they keep it cute and friendly. After spending two years playing basketball overseas, Bronx is back in Onyx City and he’s ready to lock Yazmeen down and finally make her his lady. They say be careful what you wish for because, you might just get it and that was definitely the case with Yazmeen and Bronx. Their journey was not short on drama, and it seemed like the odds were not in their favor. The devil was busy because, every time you turned around, it was roadblock after roadblock to their HEA. Yazmeen and Bronx had to go through a lot of growing pains but, they eventually got it right and made it out on the other side of all the drama. And, please know, there was plenty of it! While the back and forth was frustrating, I get it was necessary for the growth of their relationship. “It’s okay to be confused. You and Bronx have been through a lot. Most couples would’ve given up, but you two love each other enough to figure it out.” I can’t say I enjoyed the heaviness of this storyline but, Make It Last Forever was still a very enjoyable read. Yazmeen and Bronx took me through it but, it was worth it to see them finally get their HEA.
Profile Image for Kameel.
1,063 reviews291 followers
January 14, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2 Stars….this couple had too much back and forth for me


The second read was the audiobook…nice narration with Midnite Michaels….The female narrator sounded too old for Yasmeen’s character.
Profile Image for Mrs..
5,993 reviews107 followers
February 15, 2024
Make it last... A Perfect song for this story

First, I don't think, no, I know, I would not be a stick around for his leftover love. This man knew he was not ready to commit to one woman. He wanted to sling 'D' and still have his 'best friend'. I am not mad at him. I'm okay if they are okay. The connection between Bronx and Yazmeen was sparse for me. I felt a glint between them. The baby thing needed more energy which I guess was the catalyst to their perfect song. Will they last, who knows.
Profile Image for Monae Nicole.
Author 76 books188 followers
February 20, 2024
Took me through it.

Bronx and Yazmeen were friends first before lovers. Bronx knew he wasn’t ready to commit to her, and I commended him for his honesty. These two took me through it. I wanted them to get it together so bad, but they both needed to grow. I’m glad they went to therapy together, and separately. I don’t want to give away too much, so download and read it.
Profile Image for Shalana.
465 reviews8 followers
July 26, 2025
I think this is my least fav book from Kay Shanee who has quickly become an insta read for me.

Bronx is obnoxious, controlling and doesn't deserve dust...much less Yazmeen. And any man that shames a woman who made a choice about her own body while he is raw dogging other women can truly get bent.
Profile Image for The Urban Fiction Librarian.
383 reviews43 followers
April 17, 2025
Although they stressed me out something bad. This was a beautiful story between 2 friends that fell in love and became more. I almost didn’t think they’d make it but they did. Watching them overcome the obstacles they encountered was beautiful. Definitely worth the read.

Stamped,
The Urban Fiction Librarian
Profile Image for D.  Harris.
62 reviews1 follower
October 23, 2025
DNF.
Tired of women having to be dragged through the mud for mediocre love.
Love the author though
Profile Image for Brittany.
360 reviews1 follower
March 6, 2024
Mannnn when the trigger warning at the beginning of the book read “…this couple experiences a lot of struggles…”, I was just like “yeah, okay” because how much could really happen? Girl. I was not prepared for the tomfoolery, and I should’ve known better because I’ve read quite a bit of Kay Shanee’s catalog. She doesn’t lie in her trigger warnings. I blame myself lol.

The trigger warning also mentioned “The back and forth will be frustrating for some…” I am the “some” that Kay Shanee was talking about. Bronx and Yazmeen got on my nervesss after a while. And I kept reminding myself they’re only 23ish but that didn’t always work.

In the beginning, I was happy for Bronx and Yazmeen when they got together. That didn’t last long though. When NaKiya made an appearance a page or two later to drop a bomb on them, my mouth literally fell open. I hated how Yazmeen handled the situation but eventually, I was like “it’s a lot to digest. She handled it the best way she could.” So once Bronx and Yazmeen made up, I was like “okay, it’s only up from here.” Girl 😫

I understand the reasons behind all of the back and forth. I really do, but after a while I was like “bruh either work this shit out or don’t.” And I honestly was leaning towards them not working things out. Especially with them being so young. I figured they could get their shit together separately and then come back together in a few years. I liked that the author had them in therapy though — together and separately.

Of the two, Bronx got on my nerves the most. I didn’t like him, and I wished Dakari came through on his promise to beat Bronx’s ass. And me not liking Bronx is based solely on him being a jealous, insecure asshole. I didn’t like how he handled his anger and/or jealousy or how he’d talk to Yazmeen sometimes.

Also, I felt really bad/sad for NaKiya. My mouth dropped again when the news about her was revealed after the New York trip.
Profile Image for Q. Moore.
962 reviews38 followers
February 19, 2024
Growing Pains!

"Hate Our Love" was where we met Bronx and Yazmeen. I have been intrigued by their story since I read that book. I wanted to know if Bronx was going to hold onto Dakari's threats about his baby sister Yazmeen. I have to say regardless of the threats Bronx did fall in love with his best friend who happens to be Yazmeen. Their story was not short of drama. It was a roadblock with every corner that they turned. I honestly thought that with the roster that Bronx had it was going to be more surprises than it was. However, the one mishap that he tried to prevent was a blessing to him and Yazmeen. Although there was a plethora of back and forth between Bonx and Yazmeen it made their story more realistic. They tackled each issue as they came and started a healing process that they both needed. Bronx needed to heal from a huge decision that Yazmeen made. Bronx had to realize how much Yazmeen loved him and why she made that particular decision. Yazmeen had to do some deep healing as well so she could finally forgive herself. The path they took together as a couple demonstrated the love that was built. They were not only soul mates but best friends as well. There were a lot of growing pains between them but what couple doesn't have them? They fought through them to finally get their happily ever after.

Mrs. Shanee, you have done it again. I can always count on you to give an intriguing story that keeps me on the edge. You give the full story and bring in all the supporting characters to fill in the plot. Bronx's mother was a welcome gift that everyone loved. If you haven't got into this series you should. You will love how Yazmeen and Bronx became an item initially. You have to read "Hate Our Love" to find out. Dakari and Bronx are two men who don't play about the women in their lives.
Profile Image for Salene Whyte (thee_book_connoisseur_).
418 reviews3 followers
February 14, 2024
We love a good friends to lovers

"Make It Last Forever" by Kay Shanee is a poignant exploration of love, friendship, and the complexities that arise when two hearts navigate the delicate transition from friends to lovers. This was such a great read. I loved the relationship dynamic and how they transitioned from friends to lovers. Yaameen worked my nerves a whole lot. She ran as soon as there was any tiny miscommunication or issue and that pissed me off. Bronx was far more open to communicate and I loved that about him. The story adeptly delves into the challenges of balancing personal desires with the dynamics of a blossoming connection. The narrative unfolds gracefully as Bronx signs a professional basketball contract overseas, maintaining a close friendship with Yazmeen despite the physical distance.The overarching theme of friendship as the foundation of a potential romantic relationship is beautifully portrayed. The story raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of love and commitment, asking whether Yazmeen and Bronx are better off as friends or if their love can withstand the obstacles thrown their way. "Make It Last Forever" captivates readers with its exploration of the intricacies of love, commitment, and the hurdles that test the strength of a budding romance. Shanee skillfully weaves a tale that resonates with authenticity and emotion, leaving readers to ponder the timeless question of whether love can truly last forever.
Profile Image for D Marie.
105 reviews2 followers
February 15, 2024
A Cute Read

This was an okay read. I didn't love it but didn't dislike it either. It just felt a little off to me. It starts immediately with Bronx getting ready to leave for Spain. There's no prequel or prologue that explains their history. We're told that Yaz and Bronx are best friends, but their friendship was barely evidenced in the book. I wish we could have gotten flashbacks or something to really show the reader the backstory. Personally, I felt disconnected from their relationship and couldn't see why they were even together in the first place outside of the bedroom chemistry.

The book seemed to move very quickly, and the drama felt contrived, almost unnecessary. I love a good friends to lovers, but the vibe for me wasn't there. It's hard for me to explain, but it just felt off. It was a cute story. I did finish it and play to read more from the author.

I also have to shout out that I absolutely loved that Bronx and Yaz took part in therapy. It makes my sould happy seeing authors encourage this in books because so many of our black brothers/sisters still struggle with the stigma associated with needing therapy. We need to normalize it, and I appreciate Kay Shanee for doing so.
1,063 reviews8 followers
February 22, 2024
Make it last forever

This was a good friends to lovers story. I appreciated the growth that Yazmeen and Bronx had to go through individually and together to make it to their happily ever after. Bronx came back ready to get his girl but it didn’t seem Yazmeen was fully ready to take that plunge from friends with benefits to lovers and it showed with some of the discord they had. I loved that they went to therapy to work on their issues and it made them stronger and their love even more of a force to be reckoned with. I loved that they also had people in their corner to tell them when they were wrong and needed to tighten up. If you’re looking for a story that’s all hearts and flowers and sunshine, this isn’t that but if you’re prepared to take a journey with the main characters, this is a great story to read to do so.
Profile Image for Dannie Johnson.
95 reviews2 followers
January 28, 2025
Bronx was the kind of guy who just rubbed me the wrong way. He wasn’t necessarily acting like he thought he was God’s gift, but his “I’ll do whatever I want, and you’ll just have to deal with it” attitude was exhausting. It felt like he had zero regard for how his actions impacted others, and that made him really hard to root
for.

The way he treated Yazmeen just didn’t sit right with me. She deserved so much better than someone who acted like her feelings were secondary to his own impulses. She deserved better to me.

That said, the book itself is amazing, and I can see why others might love it. But Bronx’s personality? Not my vibe, and it made it hard for me to fully enjoy the story.

220 reviews2 followers
February 14, 2024
Did not disappoint

I was waiting for this story and Author Kay Shanee did not disappoint! I loved how aware Yazmeen and Bronx were of their feelings for each from the beginning which is something we don't see often in friends to lovers romance stories. The challenges they faced on the journey to forever were painful for both parties but were necessary for growth. I really loved the therapy sessions scenes as sometimes therapy is needed to effectively heal as an individual and within relationships. 5+ stars
Profile Image for Camisha Crisp.
743 reviews18 followers
March 8, 2024
Had my pressure up!!

Whew!!! These two worked my nerves. I almost wanted them leave each other alone !! That’s what good writing and a solid story will do for you!! Yasmeen and Bronx were best friends who both had strong feelings for each other. When they decided to make feelings known for each other it’s not an opportune time for them to explore a relationship. 2 years later Bronx decides it’s time to get his woman. What happens when two people dive headfirst into a relationship and the ish hits the fan?? Baby a whole lot!! Read this, like now!!
Profile Image for NubianJoí .
2,080 reviews10 followers
March 13, 2024
Friendship With A Bonus

Yup, I was obedient and read Ms. Kay, the author’s warnings & potential triggers. Nonetheless, Bronx & Yazmeen were annoying & still worked on my last frazzled nerve😬🤦🏾‍♀️🤷🏾‍♀️‼️”Make It Last Forever” wasn’t my favorite read nor my preferred couple. …too much unnecessary drama🥴. More so, both Bronx & Yazmeen still need to mature. I wouldn’t be surprised if these two never make it to matrimony. Sometimes, friendship with a bonus (baby or two) will be all the forever you’ll receive.
308 reviews1 follower
January 4, 2025
.

I honestly can't say I liked the book it's a story and was told well. But the fact Yazmeen had an abortion fucks with me as much as it did Bronx. I'm all for women's right but in that moment Yazmeen was selfish, inconsiderate and I can't even imagine she saying she loved Bronx but was so willing to kill their kid without any input from him. And she had her sister and brother in law so it's not like she didn't have options. If she had of had the kid it would of been some struggles sure but I just can't get behind the fact she terminated her pregnancy.
408 reviews5 followers
February 15, 2024
All smiles!!

I really enjoyed this. When I say it pulled at every emotion you have. I loved watching Yaz and Bronx really grow and mature together as well as alone. I appreciated the slight struggle they went through because it was needed. I understood Bronx's anger, but you couldn't help but understand Yaz reasoning as well. I'm glad they found their way back to each other. Kay Shanee knows how to keep you invested in a book chile!!
Profile Image for Ieshia Shephard.
594 reviews
February 16, 2024
Make It Last Forever

Yaz & Bronx! I love how you didn’t speed up the friends-to-lovers narrative. You painted the picture that it’s not always that easy because I’m reality it isn’t (well for most). Yaz showed she was more selfless than selfish. I’m glad Bronx finally opened his eyes. I hate that Nakiyah had to go the way she did but I’m elated that BJ survived. This was a good read!
1,064 reviews1 follower
December 9, 2024
Damn this book stressed me out. This was a friend's to lover romance where the friends completely skipped the dating part and went straight from friends to in love. It was a crazy ride bc the MMC, Bronx, was not ready for this girl and almost lost her and the friendship. He def took her and their relationship for granted. She also had secrets that almost wrecked them. Good book but so stressful.
Profile Image for CoCo.
59 reviews
November 3, 2025
Sometimes people don't need to wind up together. This is one of those times. This book could have used a time jump after they found out about Jr. There's just no reaaon people should have encouraged a 23 year old woman to put up with so much bullsh*t. Also, his insistence that his Mama retire and she quit her job teaching when he was literally barely on a team was insane. His money wasn't long enough for all that. lol
Profile Image for Wind.
327 reviews3 followers
December 29, 2025
3.5🌟🎧The drama!!! Yazmeen is the drama and she got on my nerves during certain times.
Yazmeen and Bronx were college friends. Bronx was a basketball player and got traded to an overseas team. They both decided that they would remain friends and Bronx told Yazmeen whenever he comes back she will be his and only his.
When Bronx comes back 2 years later he stands on his word and makes Yazmeen his but the journey they took to arrive at HEA was full of surprises and drama.
234 reviews1 follower
February 14, 2024
it’s called

Birth control people and condoms. Abstinence too. If you know you’re not in a position to have a baby then do what’s needed not to. Simple. Instead women just casually kill their baby for whatever reason they use to justify it. She should feel guilty. Anyway, it was an ok read.
714 reviews
February 15, 2024
Vickie J

I love friends to lover's books, Bronx was something else and he knew what type of woman Meenie was, she thought about him.... his career and what he needed to do but cause she couldn't be there for him when needed he made a bad choice and that's when all the drama started. Great Book
Profile Image for Ondria  Bacon.
554 reviews3 followers
February 15, 2024
forever it is

Wow. This was a roller coaster of emotions. Bronx and Yazmeen went through some things that would break a lot of people. Her sister and brother in law proved to be the helpers/friends they both needed. As well as Bronx’s mom. Really sad was the situation regarding BJ but all is well. Great story. Worth the time to read.

Happy Reading‼️
Profile Image for Shahtia Gay-hairston.
3,425 reviews26 followers
February 16, 2024
Make it Last Forever💙

Good read. These two had some huge issues before they could really get started. The friendship was solid but Bronx was the only one that benefited from them crossing the line which is typical for men. I love that Yasmeen was strong and held her head high in spite of what guilt she felt.
178 reviews3 followers
February 20, 2024
True Love

Bronx and Yaz have always loved one another, but it was always an obstacle in their way. First, Bronx was going overseas to play ball, and then it was having a baby by a stripper. Yaz had to finish school and was carrying a secret that she knew that would destroy both of them. It took them almost losing one another for them to start to communicate with each other.
932 reviews13 followers
February 29, 2024
Absolutely loved it

Yazmeen and Bronx definitely faced some challenging issues in their friendship turned relationship but through it all their love stood the test of time. I absolutely enjoyed their story and would definitely recommend that you download and witness the things they survived to get to their forever.
95 reviews
March 11, 2024
Great Story ❤️

I loved this story. Although at times Yazmeen and Bronx seemed as if they couldn’t get it together. I was happy when finally did. It was sad that Nakita lost her life. I was hoping she would be able to turn her life around. I loved Nasir/BJ and was happy that Yazmeen fell in love with him. Great job 👏🏾
Profile Image for Darlene.
Author 3 books12 followers
March 27, 2024
Love it!

I loved this story from beginning to end! The chemistry between the characters was off the chain and the dialog was so real and not forced.
It was nice to read about real issues couples face. These two struggled but remained true. Would love to read more about this couple in the future.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.