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The Black Wife Effect
When a billionaire tech mogul wants to marry me…
Who am I to say no?
I’ve got dreams of opening my own restaurant.
And he needs some arm candy to tide over bad press.
I can fake some smiles…
But I can’t fake the feelings I’m starting to have.
I can handle some heat.
My second home is in the kitchen.
But Leo is a different level of hot…
And I won’t keep myself away from him.
As things get rockier,
I’m left with a decision.
Stay true to the arrangement…
Or give this billionaire full control of my heart?
Who am I to say no?
I’ve got dreams of opening my own restaurant.
And he needs some arm candy to tide over bad press.
I can fake some smiles…
But I can’t fake the feelings I’m starting to have.
I can handle some heat.
My second home is in the kitchen.
But Leo is a different level of hot…
And I won’t keep myself away from him.
As things get rockier,
I’m left with a decision.
Stay true to the arrangement…
Or give this billionaire full control of my heart?
194 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 24, 2024
403 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
About the author
Tyla Walker
370 books118 followersTyla Walker has always been a writer, ask anyone who’s ever met her. Growing up in Georgia, she spent every summer barbecue weaving wild stories. Her momma always encouraged her, and she couldn’t have done it without her.
Tyla writes hot and fun romances, inspired by her own relationship. Her husband reads all her stories and helps her figure out the spice and action.
Tyla writes hot and fun romances, inspired by her own relationship. Her husband reads all her stories and helps her figure out the spice and action.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
November 30, 2024
Missing something
This should’ve been a quick read for me, but the first time this story had a continuation issue I was decidedly done. This could have been a really good story, the timeline was pretty sped up, so you couldn’t tell if there were days, weeks or months between chapters. That timeline didn’t bother me as much as the continuation. In one chapter they had a whole conversation about their backstory and how they met. Then fast forward a chapter and they’re coming up with something different and asking each other the same questions. The other issue I had is not understanding Leo’s full background. Yes, he’s been divorced and has a vicious ex wife but how long have they been divorced? How did his reputation become so bad following the divorce? The book made it seem as if he’s been divorced within the last month but other times it felt longer. The marriage of convenience trope would only be believable if he’s been separated for longer than a few weeks, which is how it initially felt. Lastly, his vicious ex wife. She felt as if she was just thrown into the story to create some drama between Leo and Liv. Her character really didn’t need to be there. At the end it was so anti-climactic with her I was upset that we didn’t get to see her going down in flames. In all, I feel like the execution of this one could have been a bit better.
This should’ve been a quick read for me, but the first time this story had a continuation issue I was decidedly done. This could have been a really good story, the timeline was pretty sped up, so you couldn’t tell if there were days, weeks or months between chapters. That timeline didn’t bother me as much as the continuation. In one chapter they had a whole conversation about their backstory and how they met. Then fast forward a chapter and they’re coming up with something different and asking each other the same questions. The other issue I had is not understanding Leo’s full background. Yes, he’s been divorced and has a vicious ex wife but how long have they been divorced? How did his reputation become so bad following the divorce? The book made it seem as if he’s been divorced within the last month but other times it felt longer. The marriage of convenience trope would only be believable if he’s been separated for longer than a few weeks, which is how it initially felt. Lastly, his vicious ex wife. She felt as if she was just thrown into the story to create some drama between Leo and Liv. Her character really didn’t need to be there. At the end it was so anti-climactic with her I was upset that we didn’t get to see her going down in flames. In all, I feel like the execution of this one could have been a bit better.
October 26, 2024
Olivia needs an investor to realize her dreams of owning her own restaurant. Leo's image needs some carefully cultivated PR to save not only himself but also his company. When all is said and done, these two are going need each other more than they realize. A good read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 2, 2024
It was cute but they never wrapped up what happens with Veronica….
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 10, 2025
So many unclear aspects of this book, missing character depth, inconsistency in the storyline.. it’s just not that good by the end of the book. Like how long was Leo divorced… when did it happen? Why was Veronica so hell bent at ruining his life? Then, by the end of the book, after all the hell she raised, she just … disappears? Good grief!
And Olivia, I was able to connect with her a bit, but she had no backstory. Who’s her family? Why aren’t they around, she makes reference to them and not wanting them to be left out of the wedding, but that’s it. Her bff Sofia just shows up to be some kind of support and push for her to believe in herself and is a trusted confidant. But, I don’t really see her purpose. She has no real identity in this story other than just to give “words of encouragement” to Olivia. And, other than the occasional mention of her skin tone, I wouldn’t know that Olivia is Black. Which is a huge thing for me and should be for this story.
The two main characters do work together and I can feel their attraction. But, after an intense night of lovemaking for the first time, it’s awkward in the following chapters as if never happened and the relationship doesn’t come to an arc change after that event. I also did not like the formatting of the story. It flips day to day from both main characters point of view which isn’t bad, but I think it causes for a lot of holes to present itself. The depth of their experiences isn’t really explored.
It’s not a terrible story, but for a seasoned reader who enjoys multiple genres and the care it takes for great story and character development, you will be left wanting.
And Olivia, I was able to connect with her a bit, but she had no backstory. Who’s her family? Why aren’t they around, she makes reference to them and not wanting them to be left out of the wedding, but that’s it. Her bff Sofia just shows up to be some kind of support and push for her to believe in herself and is a trusted confidant. But, I don’t really see her purpose. She has no real identity in this story other than just to give “words of encouragement” to Olivia. And, other than the occasional mention of her skin tone, I wouldn’t know that Olivia is Black. Which is a huge thing for me and should be for this story.
The two main characters do work together and I can feel their attraction. But, after an intense night of lovemaking for the first time, it’s awkward in the following chapters as if never happened and the relationship doesn’t come to an arc change after that event. I also did not like the formatting of the story. It flips day to day from both main characters point of view which isn’t bad, but I think it causes for a lot of holes to present itself. The depth of their experiences isn’t really explored.
It’s not a terrible story, but for a seasoned reader who enjoys multiple genres and the care it takes for great story and character development, you will be left wanting.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 20, 2025
This was a short and straightforward read. I loved how everything didn't drag so much, and it was too much on the plot.
I love Olivia personality, how she shows her independence to Leo, and wants to have her dreams fulfilled so much.
I love Leo as a character, but I feel like the way he was grumpy sometimes was a little annoying, I didn't like how he would snap or be rude to other people in the book,yeah I get it,he was underpressure from having to deal with his ex wife claims with his relationship with Olivia but I didn't get the whole thing being a jerk to other people.
I have to say I loved how the author went about with Leo and Olivia realizing they want to be true about their love and feelings, I mean I loved that they didn't actually have a break up or having someone grovel for another but they both decided to continue with their marriage of convenience but having real deal about everything,so with that this book was a little different from other marriage of convenience or fake dating books I have read and I enjoyed that about Leo and Olivia Blackwood.
I love Olivia personality, how she shows her independence to Leo, and wants to have her dreams fulfilled so much.
I love Leo as a character, but I feel like the way he was grumpy sometimes was a little annoying, I didn't like how he would snap or be rude to other people in the book,yeah I get it,he was underpressure from having to deal with his ex wife claims with his relationship with Olivia but I didn't get the whole thing being a jerk to other people.
I have to say I loved how the author went about with Leo and Olivia realizing they want to be true about their love and feelings, I mean I loved that they didn't actually have a break up or having someone grovel for another but they both decided to continue with their marriage of convenience but having real deal about everything,so with that this book was a little different from other marriage of convenience or fake dating books I have read and I enjoyed that about Leo and Olivia Blackwood.
October 24, 2024
Tyla Walker's The Black Wife Effect is a delightful romantic comedy that will leave you smiling. This story follows Olivia and Leo, two people who are brought together by a fake engagement.
What I Loved:
The Chemistry: The sparks between Olivia and Leo are undeniable. Their witty banter and growing attraction make for a captivating read.
The Fake Engagement Trope: This classic trope is executed perfectly in this story, adding an extra layer of intrigue and fun.
The Spicy Scenes: If you're looking for some steam, this book delivers. The love scenes are passionate and intense.
The Villainous Ex-Wife: The presence of the evil ex-wife adds an extra layer of drama and conflict to the story.
Overall:
If you're looking for a fun and entertaining romance with a touch of drama, The Black Wife Effect is a great choice. It's a perfect blend of humor, romance, and a touch of villainy.
Rating: 4 stars.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
What I Loved:
The Chemistry: The sparks between Olivia and Leo are undeniable. Their witty banter and growing attraction make for a captivating read.
The Fake Engagement Trope: This classic trope is executed perfectly in this story, adding an extra layer of intrigue and fun.
The Spicy Scenes: If you're looking for some steam, this book delivers. The love scenes are passionate and intense.
The Villainous Ex-Wife: The presence of the evil ex-wife adds an extra layer of drama and conflict to the story.
Overall:
If you're looking for a fun and entertaining romance with a touch of drama, The Black Wife Effect is a great choice. It's a perfect blend of humor, romance, and a touch of villainy.
Rating: 4 stars.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 14, 2024
They got more than they expected
Leo Blackwood, tech genius and CEO of Neuro Tech needed a boost to his reputation after his messy divorce from his ex-wife Veronica whose sole goal was to torment him even after their divorce. His business was also suffering. His best friend and Lawyer, unbeknownst to him sought to solve this problem by having an arranged marriage.
Olivia Howard, a creative chef at La Petit Chou, wanted to have her own fusion restaurant but lacked the funds. Her best friend Sofia, is persuaded to pursue the billionaire's offer. What Leo and Olivia did not expect was to fall in love with each other, especially after Veronica brought drama into their relationship they had to handle. The drama in their story moved them closer together with them developing feelings that they could not live without.
This was a quick easy read with some drama from an ex who just wouldn't move on.
Leo Blackwood, tech genius and CEO of Neuro Tech needed a boost to his reputation after his messy divorce from his ex-wife Veronica whose sole goal was to torment him even after their divorce. His business was also suffering. His best friend and Lawyer, unbeknownst to him sought to solve this problem by having an arranged marriage.
Olivia Howard, a creative chef at La Petit Chou, wanted to have her own fusion restaurant but lacked the funds. Her best friend Sofia, is persuaded to pursue the billionaire's offer. What Leo and Olivia did not expect was to fall in love with each other, especially after Veronica brought drama into their relationship they had to handle. The drama in their story moved them closer together with them developing feelings that they could not live without.
This was a quick easy read with some drama from an ex who just wouldn't move on.
February 9, 2025
Enjoyable
WOW this is a amazing story! One that you will definitely enjoy. There is so much romance with these awesome characters, they have such great chemistry. The story is fantastic, thrilling and very passionate with parts that will bring smile to your face along with their drama element, makes this a unique and awesome story! It keeps you on the edge of your seat with the love and passion that are so captivating it will make you want to read the story more than once. This is a great love affair that makes you laugh out loud with the happy couple you are reading about. They all tells a beautiful and delightful story but what I enjoyed the most is the ending! Overall this is a five star romance which l greatly enjoyed and I'm excited about the next story by this author! ( Well I'm begging that there be more stories so this will become a series) …💖👩🏼💻😍
WOW this is a amazing story! One that you will definitely enjoy. There is so much romance with these awesome characters, they have such great chemistry. The story is fantastic, thrilling and very passionate with parts that will bring smile to your face along with their drama element, makes this a unique and awesome story! It keeps you on the edge of your seat with the love and passion that are so captivating it will make you want to read the story more than once. This is a great love affair that makes you laugh out loud with the happy couple you are reading about. They all tells a beautiful and delightful story but what I enjoyed the most is the ending! Overall this is a five star romance which l greatly enjoyed and I'm excited about the next story by this author! ( Well I'm begging that there be more stories so this will become a series) …💖👩🏼💻😍
October 30, 2024
a Craigslist marriage
what started off as a marriage of convenience to help each other, turned into a partnership, into a friendship, and on one night and intimate relationship. that they both fought against but wanted at the same time. they fought his ex-wife as well as public opinion to maintain their relationship. Leo was actually a good man for Liv. After he admitted that he had feelings for her, he couldn't bare to think of Liv walking away from him. and she didn't want to either. and after they walked through the fire and came through it, they decided that they were a real couple and loved each other. and the new little surprise....
loved it.
what started off as a marriage of convenience to help each other, turned into a partnership, into a friendship, and on one night and intimate relationship. that they both fought against but wanted at the same time. they fought his ex-wife as well as public opinion to maintain their relationship. Leo was actually a good man for Liv. After he admitted that he had feelings for her, he couldn't bare to think of Liv walking away from him. and she didn't want to either. and after they walked through the fire and came through it, they decided that they were a real couple and loved each other. and the new little surprise....
loved it.
January 7, 2025
did not flow properly
I had to read the negative reviews to make sure I wasn’t tripping
I too got very annoyed with the continuation issues. It felt like things were addressed and then readdressed as if the conversation never happened. It was weird. Not wrapping up the Veronica storyline seems like a major misstep.
I am normally a fan of this writer but this book was executed poorly.
Here is a fun drinking game for you: take a shot every time the author writes that Olivia speaks in barely a whisper/barely above a whisper.
I counted. The author uses that phrase 17 times 😭😭😭
I had to read the negative reviews to make sure I wasn’t tripping
I too got very annoyed with the continuation issues. It felt like things were addressed and then readdressed as if the conversation never happened. It was weird. Not wrapping up the Veronica storyline seems like a major misstep.
I am normally a fan of this writer but this book was executed poorly.
Here is a fun drinking game for you: take a shot every time the author writes that Olivia speaks in barely a whisper/barely above a whisper.
I counted. The author uses that phrase 17 times 😭😭😭
September 12, 2025
2.5 rounded up to 3 for the sake of this review.
not bad but definitely nothing special. quick and easy read if you’re willing to deal with insta lust and love, these two moved faster than my car when i’m running late for work. the concept sounded interesting so i gave it a chance BUT it felt rushed and not finished. we don’t get a wrap up on the ex wife, we never learn what happened there, we don’t even get a real conclusion to the story other than she gets her place opened and a baby LOL. can’t say too much on a book that took less than 2 hours to read. could’ve been better but not the worse so that’s great
not bad but definitely nothing special. quick and easy read if you’re willing to deal with insta lust and love, these two moved faster than my car when i’m running late for work. the concept sounded interesting so i gave it a chance BUT it felt rushed and not finished. we don’t get a wrap up on the ex wife, we never learn what happened there, we don’t even get a real conclusion to the story other than she gets her place opened and a baby LOL. can’t say too much on a book that took less than 2 hours to read. could’ve been better but not the worse so that’s great
November 29, 2024
good story
I loved the initial setup. I thought there were points where the story didn't YANK me. maybe I'm spoiled in that aspect, of needing DANGEROUS drama. there was a flash of it in here that still didn't quite feel...I don't know what's the word. believable? maybe that's the word? I loved the chef and food stuff, showed enthusiasm from the author. Liv and Leo are so cute together. Spicy but not burns your body spicy, if that makes sense. very warm ending. overall, a sweet read. I love the title because it reminds me of that social media trend
I loved the initial setup. I thought there were points where the story didn't YANK me. maybe I'm spoiled in that aspect, of needing DANGEROUS drama. there was a flash of it in here that still didn't quite feel...I don't know what's the word. believable? maybe that's the word? I loved the chef and food stuff, showed enthusiasm from the author. Liv and Leo are so cute together. Spicy but not burns your body spicy, if that makes sense. very warm ending. overall, a sweet read. I love the title because it reminds me of that social media trend
January 2, 2025
Huh?
Wait no resolution on Victoria? This isn’t like you. And what’s with it with Billionaires discussing their schemes out in the open, in cafe etc. Like aren’t they supposed to be secretive and about privacy? That being said, I loved the togetherness of Liv and Leo, discussing everything and working together through the challenges.
P.S. can we for once have these billionaires meet their forever girl organically, like her genuinely and only propose a fake marriage so as not to lose her?
Wait no resolution on Victoria? This isn’t like you. And what’s with it with Billionaires discussing their schemes out in the open, in cafe etc. Like aren’t they supposed to be secretive and about privacy? That being said, I loved the togetherness of Liv and Leo, discussing everything and working together through the challenges.
P.S. can we for once have these billionaires meet their forever girl organically, like her genuinely and only propose a fake marriage so as not to lose her?
April 28, 2025
Ok...😏
This is the first reading for me of this set of Walker novels. I've been reluctant because I don't like the constant use of the word "black". The black this..the black that. 😒
But I decided to take a chance. I found Olivia & Leo likable enough I guess. Didn't like that she was basically swooning at first meet. I did love that she's a Chef and including the Fusion techniques was wonderful. I wanted the Ex. really dealt with and she wasn't. She was a major issue at the start then poof..no more mention of her. Loose end. Yeah..overall its a nice read..just Ok.
This is the first reading for me of this set of Walker novels. I've been reluctant because I don't like the constant use of the word "black". The black this..the black that. 😒
But I decided to take a chance. I found Olivia & Leo likable enough I guess. Didn't like that she was basically swooning at first meet. I did love that she's a Chef and including the Fusion techniques was wonderful. I wanted the Ex. really dealt with and she wasn't. She was a major issue at the start then poof..no more mention of her. Loose end. Yeah..overall its a nice read..just Ok.
December 26, 2024
I don’t know where to start with this complete mess of a story. The MC IMO had no chemistry. The ex-wife was so unhinged but why? The timeline started getting weird and inconsistent- like it takes months of planning to open a new restaurant even with billions- in the book it seemed like days maybe weeks. The best friend and lawyer served no real purpose- definitely didn’t add any depth to the MCs. And catching feelings based on what exactly. Ugh.
February 14, 2025
Enjoyable
This was a good read, but I wish a little bit more explanation had been given as to why the first marriage didn’t last and why the ex wife was so angry. Did she lose out on a contract to her ex husband? Was she caught cheating so lost out on a significant gain in alimony? If the reason for her anger had been explained, I would have happily given this story a five star rating. Without this information I felt the story was incomplete.
This was a good read, but I wish a little bit more explanation had been given as to why the first marriage didn’t last and why the ex wife was so angry. Did she lose out on a contract to her ex husband? Was she caught cheating so lost out on a significant gain in alimony? If the reason for her anger had been explained, I would have happily given this story a five star rating. Without this information I felt the story was incomplete.
December 19, 2024
So confused
No family background for either of them. Didn't really feel like I knew the characters. They were living in a bubble too much for me. I didn't understand Veronica's motive... she was vindictive just for the hell of it? and what did happen to Veronica? No answers on any of the "accidents". Feels very cliffhanger like.
No family background for either of them. Didn't really feel like I knew the characters. They were living in a bubble too much for me. I didn't understand Veronica's motive... she was vindictive just for the hell of it? and what did happen to Veronica? No answers on any of the "accidents". Feels very cliffhanger like.
December 26, 2024
Olivia and Leo
I was thoroughly engrossed in the captivating story, unable to put it down once I started reading. While there were a few minor spelling or grammatical errors, they were easily overlooked, as the narrative was so compelling. I eagerly anticipate the author's next work, excited to see what other engaging stories they have in store.
I was thoroughly engrossed in the captivating story, unable to put it down once I started reading. While there were a few minor spelling or grammatical errors, they were easily overlooked, as the narrative was so compelling. I eagerly anticipate the author's next work, excited to see what other engaging stories they have in store.
March 14, 2025
Marriage Arrangement
Leo is a billionaire tech mogul. Olivia is an up and coming chef. Leo's divorce has left his reputation in the dirt. Olivia wants to open a restaurant but life is getting in the way. He has money and she is squeaky clean. Can an arrangement between them become mutually beneficial?
Leo is a billionaire tech mogul. Olivia is an up and coming chef. Leo's divorce has left his reputation in the dirt. Olivia wants to open a restaurant but life is getting in the way. He has money and she is squeaky clean. Can an arrangement between them become mutually beneficial?
March 20, 2025
The Black Wife Effect
This was a great story with a great storyline the characters were well matched and written well. It had a meaningful effect on everyone that's going to read it. I would recommend that this story be read by anyone that loves a Well written story. It is a page turner.
This was a great story with a great storyline the characters were well matched and written well. It had a meaningful effect on everyone that's going to read it. I would recommend that this story be read by anyone that loves a Well written story. It is a page turner.
January 20, 2026
Good read but felt rushed!
This was a quick and good read I just wished it wasn’t rushed! Veronica’s shenanigans should have been played out a lil more! It’s like the fire at the restaurant and finding the match’s was a lil too far-fetched. Leo and Olivia story ended beautifully.
This was a quick and good read I just wished it wasn’t rushed! Veronica’s shenanigans should have been played out a lil more! It’s like the fire at the restaurant and finding the match’s was a lil too far-fetched. Leo and Olivia story ended beautifully.
November 2, 2024
Liked the idea of the story, and the loved story itself. The book had some finishing to do. Wanted to know if the ex wife ready ran Liv off the road and if she set the fire, or was it someone from Lviv’s past. We were left to assume.
November 8, 2024
Did I miss something what happened to the ex wife. She was so jealous and crazy..chef meets tech millionaire or is it billionaire🤔. Cute read, but my least favorite trope it ends with her bring pregnant 😏
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 15, 2024
Black Wife Effect
I love the story, and it has a great ending. However, I am confused about what happened to the villain. I don't know if I skipped something, but I felt that wasn't explained. Otherwise, it is a good story, and I love this author's work.
I love the story, and it has a great ending. However, I am confused about what happened to the villain. I don't know if I skipped something, but I felt that wasn't explained. Otherwise, it is a good story, and I love this author's work.
November 16, 2024
Good Gracious
This was an old read. I enjoyed reading every word. This couple was very off the beaten track, but they got it together and beat the villainess at her own game. Get a copy 🥰
This was an old read. I enjoyed reading every word. This couple was very off the beaten track, but they got it together and beat the villainess at her own game. Get a copy 🥰
November 18, 2024
Veronica?
So what happened with Veronica?
Just seems incomplete to me. No real solution for all the drama that she caused. And why did Veronica cause such drama? Was she still in love with Leo?
So what happened with Veronica?
Just seems incomplete to me. No real solution for all the drama that she caused. And why did Veronica cause such drama? Was she still in love with Leo?
December 27, 2024
Awsome
This is a great book I would recommend it to a friend . I let me drift off to a place of excitement then love . she is such a great writer .Always looking forward to her books so read this book and leave a reviewe.lol
This is a great book I would recommend it to a friend . I let me drift off to a place of excitement then love . she is such a great writer .Always looking forward to her books so read this book and leave a reviewe.lol
December 31, 2024
Good...
But, in all things you have to get an understanding... I got everything in the storyline...the characters, the plot and everything leading up to the climax except what happened to Veronica... Hmmm
But, in all things you have to get an understanding... I got everything in the storyline...the characters, the plot and everything leading up to the climax except what happened to Veronica... Hmmm
January 13, 2025
repetitive
I wanted to like it but it got really repetitive. After every date they’re checking the news and Veronica makes a threat. Like 4/5 times😮💨
Plus the whole “accident”… no way I’m not calling someone, Leo, police, someone…. Then pretending like it didn’t happen???!!!
I wanted to like it but it got really repetitive. After every date they’re checking the news and Veronica makes a threat. Like 4/5 times😮💨
Plus the whole “accident”… no way I’m not calling someone, Leo, police, someone…. Then pretending like it didn’t happen???!!!
January 17, 2025
This author has done a beautiful romance again.
Every word and descriptions are just enough for a feeling of unexpected feelings come from her book. I loved the story without too much that's physical. I had pleasure reading yet another special romanance. Enjoy!
Every word and descriptions are just enough for a feeling of unexpected feelings come from her book. I loved the story without too much that's physical. I had pleasure reading yet another special romanance. Enjoy!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews