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The Teachers of Hardwood High #2
B+J: The Teachers of Hardwood High
Janae
Three years ago, I had one unforgettable weekend with a man who made me forget every rule I’d ever followed. Then he ghosted me like it never happened. Fast forward to now—he’s standing in front of the faculty at Hardwood High, all smug and suited up, introducing himself as our new assistant principal. Every time he walks into my classroom, opens his mouth in a meeting, or so much as breathes in my direction, I have to remind myself I like my job too much to cuss him out.
Benjamin
It was supposed to be just a weekend. No strings, no names, no complications. But when I walked into Hardwood High and saw Janae in the crowd, I knew I’d messed up. Now Dr. Ranley has her shadowing my mentorship program, and we’ve got no choice but to work side by side. I ran from her before because I felt something real—and that wasn’t part of the plan. But I can’t run now. And the more time we spend together, the more I’m realizing… I don’t want to.
One weekend was a spark. Three years of tension made it combustible. Now, with every hallway run-in and forced collaboration, Janae and Benjamin have to decide if they’re ready to stop dodging the fire—and walk straight into it.
Three years ago, I had one unforgettable weekend with a man who made me forget every rule I’d ever followed. Then he ghosted me like it never happened. Fast forward to now—he’s standing in front of the faculty at Hardwood High, all smug and suited up, introducing himself as our new assistant principal. Every time he walks into my classroom, opens his mouth in a meeting, or so much as breathes in my direction, I have to remind myself I like my job too much to cuss him out.
Benjamin
It was supposed to be just a weekend. No strings, no names, no complications. But when I walked into Hardwood High and saw Janae in the crowd, I knew I’d messed up. Now Dr. Ranley has her shadowing my mentorship program, and we’ve got no choice but to work side by side. I ran from her before because I felt something real—and that wasn’t part of the plan. But I can’t run now. And the more time we spend together, the more I’m realizing… I don’t want to.
One weekend was a spark. Three years of tension made it combustible. Now, with every hallway run-in and forced collaboration, Janae and Benjamin have to decide if they’re ready to stop dodging the fire—and walk straight into it.
- GenresRomance
180 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 15, 2024
131 people are currently reading
274 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
November 15, 2024
I just wanna give Nina a hug lolllll. Once again, I ate this book up! I just love her writing style and the way she makes you feel so engaged into the story. I love when a book just flows and it’s just so easy to read. Again, it just feels like a breath of fresh air and I was cozied up reading this. I read this book in one sitting and would recommend it to literally anyone. Grown folks being grown folks will never steer me wrong. Loved itttttttt <3
January 10, 2025
I didn't enjoy Ben and Janae's story as much as Xavier and Essence. Their story just wasn't as smooth. Their feelings towards one another switched quickly and it wasn't completely believable as a reader. However, I still appreciated their communication with each other and eventually began rooting for them. I will be reading more from Nina High!
July 20, 2025
i give it 2.75 stars. a very cute book w/ a decent amount of spice. we love a second chance romance. i will say, the extreme hate to extreme love happened so quickly it was almost too unbelievable.
February 1, 2025
Communicable Services
What🥴⁉️, Janae was a completely different character, had a new female friend-confidant, sudden career hatred/regrets after ten years and three personality changes all in book two compared to book one of this series. …now she’s bitter, indecisive and insecure regarding her lascivious choices not reciprocated‼️Likewise, Benjamin was juvenile & reckless emulating the mantra of a rapper, establishing “hos in every zip code” as though communicable services is a respectable accomplishment🥴‼️ Sometimes, even with artistic expressions reputations precede you. Sorry, but I just didn’t care for “B & J: The Teachers of Hardwood - Book 2” for numerous reasons. Three ⭐️’s was a generous rating 🤷🏾♀️‼️
What🥴⁉️, Janae was a completely different character, had a new female friend-confidant, sudden career hatred/regrets after ten years and three personality changes all in book two compared to book one of this series. …now she’s bitter, indecisive and insecure regarding her lascivious choices not reciprocated‼️Likewise, Benjamin was juvenile & reckless emulating the mantra of a rapper, establishing “hos in every zip code” as though communicable services is a respectable accomplishment🥴‼️ Sometimes, even with artistic expressions reputations precede you. Sorry, but I just didn’t care for “B & J: The Teachers of Hardwood - Book 2” for numerous reasons. Three ⭐️’s was a generous rating 🤷🏾♀️‼️
November 24, 2024
I really enjoyed B+J: The Teachers of Hardwood High and I think Nina High is getting better with every book release. I love the MMC Ben and the way he worked to earn the FMC Janae’s affection. These characters felt real and their interactions were genuine and relatable. The characters are diverse, the chemistry jumps off the page, and the ending was perfect. I can’t wait to see what’s next from Nina High, she’s one of my favorite new writers. l recommend B+J: The Teachers of Hardwood High to anyone looking for a quick, cozy read with funny characters.
Final rating: 4.75/5 stars
Final rating: 4.75/5 stars
December 21, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
December 22, 2024
Oh I loved this book! I really like to read stories with mature characters! This book has second chances, emotional growth, and the power of proximity in shifting perceptions. The book balances romance, drama, and character development, making it an engaging read from start to finish.
Janae, confident and self-assured, is blindsided by Ben’s abrupt disappearance after a seemingly perfect weekend. Her sense of betrayal sets the stage for a year filled with unresolved tension and sharp-tongued interactions when Ben re-enters her life as the new assistant principal at her school. Janae’s simmering resentment and Ben’s initial nonchalance create an interesting dynamic that makes their eventual partnership that much more satisfying.
This author is so good at creating authentic characters with flaws and vulnerabilities. Janae’s bitterness is strong, but her strength and intellect shine through, making her an inspiring FMC. Ben, on the other hand, starts as a seemingly irredeemable f*ckboy but definitely starts to show his true colors as he spends more time with Janae. Their chemistry is electric, and the moments of tension between them are as great as their moments of connection.
One of the book’s highlights is its setting within Hardwood High, where the stakes of their professional lives parallel their personal journeys. The school project that forces Ben and Janae to collaborate is an awesome twist that allows their relationship to evolve naturally. As they navigate their differences and begin to see each other in a new light, their partnership becomes a testament to the power of communication and understanding.
The pacing is well-balanced, with just the right mix of tension and resolution to keep readers invested. If there’s anything that I can point out as a critique to be made, it’s that them getting together feels slightly rushed, given how deep the lake of Janae’s hurt. However, this is a minor piece in an otherwise great narrative.
Do yourself a favor and read the book!
Janae, confident and self-assured, is blindsided by Ben’s abrupt disappearance after a seemingly perfect weekend. Her sense of betrayal sets the stage for a year filled with unresolved tension and sharp-tongued interactions when Ben re-enters her life as the new assistant principal at her school. Janae’s simmering resentment and Ben’s initial nonchalance create an interesting dynamic that makes their eventual partnership that much more satisfying.
This author is so good at creating authentic characters with flaws and vulnerabilities. Janae’s bitterness is strong, but her strength and intellect shine through, making her an inspiring FMC. Ben, on the other hand, starts as a seemingly irredeemable f*ckboy but definitely starts to show his true colors as he spends more time with Janae. Their chemistry is electric, and the moments of tension between them are as great as their moments of connection.
One of the book’s highlights is its setting within Hardwood High, where the stakes of their professional lives parallel their personal journeys. The school project that forces Ben and Janae to collaborate is an awesome twist that allows their relationship to evolve naturally. As they navigate their differences and begin to see each other in a new light, their partnership becomes a testament to the power of communication and understanding.
The pacing is well-balanced, with just the right mix of tension and resolution to keep readers invested. If there’s anything that I can point out as a critique to be made, it’s that them getting together feels slightly rushed, given how deep the lake of Janae’s hurt. However, this is a minor piece in an otherwise great narrative.
Do yourself a favor and read the book!
September 22, 2025
Five star banter:
Janae is back and now we get her as a main character. We are introduced to Janae back in book number 3 in the Martin Brothers series as Porshche’s teaching partner in crime. Now a few months later, Janae is struggling through this school year for multiple reasons. Her two favorite teacher friends have found love and one is no longer practicing the profession. As the year progresses, she realizes it’s time to change careers and pursue of passion of event planning.
Three years ago Benjamin played in Janae’s face and ghosted her after an one night stand turns into an unforgettable weekend. Currently he’s one of the assistant principals at the school Janae is a math teacher at and she’s been anything but cordial to him. After being approved for a student mentorship program, the principal assigns Janae to assist him with upstarting this venture.
Sparks begin to reignite and now Ben sees the error of his ghosting ways. Can Janae’s heart thaw out to allow him another chance? This story showcases how time can heals old wounds when one put in the work and place all their intentions out in the open.
So far this is my favorite of the series. I don’t know if anyone can top this couple but I love the banter and the overall plot.
Janae is back and now we get her as a main character. We are introduced to Janae back in book number 3 in the Martin Brothers series as Porshche’s teaching partner in crime. Now a few months later, Janae is struggling through this school year for multiple reasons. Her two favorite teacher friends have found love and one is no longer practicing the profession. As the year progresses, she realizes it’s time to change careers and pursue of passion of event planning.
Three years ago Benjamin played in Janae’s face and ghosted her after an one night stand turns into an unforgettable weekend. Currently he’s one of the assistant principals at the school Janae is a math teacher at and she’s been anything but cordial to him. After being approved for a student mentorship program, the principal assigns Janae to assist him with upstarting this venture.
Sparks begin to reignite and now Ben sees the error of his ghosting ways. Can Janae’s heart thaw out to allow him another chance? This story showcases how time can heals old wounds when one put in the work and place all their intentions out in the open.
So far this is my favorite of the series. I don’t know if anyone can top this couple but I love the banter and the overall plot.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2025
Good read that takes you for a ride!
This book is about a teacher (FMC) and an assistant principal (MMC) who reluctantly fall in love after a disastrous first encounter. The FMC ends up hating the MMC and the ride of the storyline begins. And an enjoyable ride it was! It has the tropes you love: forced proximity, enemies to lovers, and he falls first. It also has good character development, funny banter, and a little spice. While the hesitance of the FMC can get a little annoying, and the jumps in the timeline might be a little jarring; this is a good book that will have you rooting for the MMC, and excited for the conclusion. If you like contemporary romance from an author who gets better with each book, it's a good read that I definitely recommend.
This book is about a teacher (FMC) and an assistant principal (MMC) who reluctantly fall in love after a disastrous first encounter. The FMC ends up hating the MMC and the ride of the storyline begins. And an enjoyable ride it was! It has the tropes you love: forced proximity, enemies to lovers, and he falls first. It also has good character development, funny banter, and a little spice. While the hesitance of the FMC can get a little annoying, and the jumps in the timeline might be a little jarring; this is a good book that will have you rooting for the MMC, and excited for the conclusion. If you like contemporary romance from an author who gets better with each book, it's a good read that I definitely recommend.
November 24, 2024
Liked it
My favorite part of this book was the party at the end for Drummond, and the way he and his brothers stepped up.
While I liked this story overall, it didn't quite hit the same as the previous ones. It got a tad repetitive or stagnant in some areas, Janae was a little too childish at times, and there were editing issues throughout. I liked Ben (eventually lol) and thought he and Janae were good together, even if a little reckless by discussing their feelings on a bus full of students and having cabin romps. But I like how it turned out, and there were some laugh-out-loud moments, which is always a great thing.
My favorite part of this book was the party at the end for Drummond, and the way he and his brothers stepped up.
While I liked this story overall, it didn't quite hit the same as the previous ones. It got a tad repetitive or stagnant in some areas, Janae was a little too childish at times, and there were editing issues throughout. I liked Ben (eventually lol) and thought he and Janae were good together, even if a little reckless by discussing their feelings on a bus full of students and having cabin romps. But I like how it turned out, and there were some laugh-out-loud moments, which is always a great thing.
November 21, 2024
B+J
This was my first read by this author and I will be exploring more of her catalogue because I really enjoyed this enemies to lovers story. I enjoyed the banter between Ben and Janae even when she was being mean to him. I liked that he took her meanness in stride and understood that she was acting from a place of hurt. I also liked that Janae allowed him to show her the man he was now compared to who he was when they first met a few years ago. It was good to see the growth between them both.
This was my first read by this author and I will be exploring more of her catalogue because I really enjoyed this enemies to lovers story. I enjoyed the banter between Ben and Janae even when she was being mean to him. I liked that he took her meanness in stride and understood that she was acting from a place of hurt. I also liked that Janae allowed him to show her the man he was now compared to who he was when they first met a few years ago. It was good to see the growth between them both.
July 11, 2025
Yes!
A one night stand left them feeling more than they bargained for; Benjamin dips without the courtesy of a “goodbye” but the universe has a way of making you face things when you least expect it. Both Janae and Benjamin struggled with communicating their insecurities. Although it took some time, Janae was able to take a leap, in more areas of her life than one. It was cute that Benjamin tried to stay in denial & fight his feelings but once he admitted them, he wanted nothing more but to redeem himself for his past mistakes and be in Janae’s skin LOL!
A one night stand left them feeling more than they bargained for; Benjamin dips without the courtesy of a “goodbye” but the universe has a way of making you face things when you least expect it. Both Janae and Benjamin struggled with communicating their insecurities. Although it took some time, Janae was able to take a leap, in more areas of her life than one. It was cute that Benjamin tried to stay in denial & fight his feelings but once he admitted them, he wanted nothing more but to redeem himself for his past mistakes and be in Janae’s skin LOL!
February 4, 2025
Mature characters, second chances, and emotional growth made this is good story.
After reading about Xavier and Essence in the first installment in this series, I wasn't going to read this one with Benjamin and Janae. The first story was sweet but it didn't make me want to shout about it. I'm glad I changed my mind and read B+ J because I enjoyed this one more.
I laughed so much. I also felt like hitting both Ben and Janae at different points of the story because they were getting on my last nerve. Seeing how much Ben wanted the relationship to work after messing up when they met initially, was heartwarming.
Janae's story resonated with me because I know how it feels to be stuck doing something that gives you no pleasure. I was cheering her on and was happy when she realised her dream.
These were my first Nina High books and they wouldn't be my last.
After reading about Xavier and Essence in the first installment in this series, I wasn't going to read this one with Benjamin and Janae. The first story was sweet but it didn't make me want to shout about it. I'm glad I changed my mind and read B+ J because I enjoyed this one more.
I laughed so much. I also felt like hitting both Ben and Janae at different points of the story because they were getting on my last nerve. Seeing how much Ben wanted the relationship to work after messing up when they met initially, was heartwarming.
Janae's story resonated with me because I know how it feels to be stuck doing something that gives you no pleasure. I was cheering her on and was happy when she realised her dream.
These were my first Nina High books and they wouldn't be my last.
February 10, 2025
I wanted to like this book, but I found the FMC Janae insufferable. I’m not saying she didn’t have a reason to be mad at Benjamin, I was just tired of the same conflict being dragged throughout the entire book. It’s all Janae seemed to be able to talk about. 173 pages of the same conversation, and enemies to lovers done completely wrong.
November 19, 2024
Yaaaaas for the rebound
Very good.. listen minus the few grammatical errors this was top tier.. I was glad sis finally got out of her head and let her heart open up!! And the level of maturity and honesty from Ben!!! Chefs kiss
Very good.. listen minus the few grammatical errors this was top tier.. I was glad sis finally got out of her head and let her heart open up!! And the level of maturity and honesty from Ben!!! Chefs kiss
December 1, 2024
Cute and quick read
Loved this book! I really enjoyed them together even though Janae was fighting it lol. I appreciated how Ben reassured her with not only his words but also his actions❤️
Loved this book! I really enjoyed them together even though Janae was fighting it lol. I appreciated how Ben reassured her with not only his words but also his actions❤️
December 12, 2024
Teacher Love
This was such a lovely love story. Teachers fall in love all the time.
Ben and Janae needed a push toward real love.
Who would of thought a one night stand would lead you to love.
More stories b like this please.
This was such a lovely love story. Teachers fall in love all the time.
Ben and Janae needed a push toward real love.
Who would of thought a one night stand would lead you to love.
More stories b like this please.
April 7, 2025
Janae And Ben 🩷
I enjoyed this story. Janae was a little frustrating at times but the way Ben was patient was admirable. He grew into the man his sister knew he could be. Love that for them.
I enjoyed this story. Janae was a little frustrating at times but the way Ben was patient was admirable. He grew into the man his sister knew he could be. Love that for them.
May 5, 2025
Loved it
Such a cute book. Even though Ben was on the good bull he redeemed himself Janae had her reasons for treating him like scum when he got to the school. Her heart was broken.
But they made it work. Super cute.
Such a cute book. Even though Ben was on the good bull he redeemed himself Janae had her reasons for treating him like scum when he got to the school. Her heart was broken.
But they made it work. Super cute.
July 19, 2025
heartwarming
I’m involve with this story!! Everything the characters growth, the storyline, and their relationship tells it all! I’m so happy for both of them showing how much they have grown together their feelings develop for each other.
I’m involve with this story!! Everything the characters growth, the storyline, and their relationship tells it all! I’m so happy for both of them showing how much they have grown together their feelings develop for each other.
September 29, 2025
teacher series
This was a very good book I loved it’s funny how they had a one night stand during the summer than they come to find out that they are going to be teachers at the same school
This was a very good book I loved it’s funny how they had a one night stand during the summer than they come to find out that they are going to be teachers at the same school
October 17, 2025
Frenemiez to Lovers
Ben and Jane were perfect. There story is one that happens to so many and I loved how everything worked out for them. Thanks for keeping us in the loop with the Martin brothers and their wives.
Ben and Jane were perfect. There story is one that happens to so many and I loved how everything worked out for them. Thanks for keeping us in the loop with the Martin brothers and their wives.
November 18, 2024
amazing!
This book was everything! I loved it so much. I always love a good black love story. I really want to see more of the teachers of Hardwood High!!
This book was everything! I loved it so much. I always love a good black love story. I really want to see more of the teachers of Hardwood High!!
November 25, 2024
NINA..... you have done it once again!!! They way this book starts, you can't put it down!!!Jane is everything, and Benjamin is a respectable man with a nasty side, and I'm here for it!!!
November 30, 2024
I loved this one. I’m a sucker for second chance romance so I actually liked this this one better than the first book.
December 8, 2024
very Cute
This was a very cute little story but at the same time heartfelt. I really enjoyed this author. Looking forward to reading more of her books
This was a very cute little story but at the same time heartfelt. I really enjoyed this author. Looking forward to reading more of her books
December 29, 2024
Highly enjoyable. Nina High's writing is great and the story is a sweet, entertaining read.
December 31, 2024
Hardwood High
This was decent. I liked the plot and characters. The book needs more editing. It had a lot of typos and continuity issues.
This was decent. I liked the plot and characters. The book needs more editing. It had a lot of typos and continuity issues.
January 4, 2025
Very cute
I LOVE a cute live story and this was perfect! The characters were fun and the author is quickly becoming one of my favorites
I LOVE a cute live story and this was perfect! The characters were fun and the author is quickly becoming one of my favorites
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews