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Catching Feelings

Imagine That

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Starting over in Lagos was supposed to be simple—until Abebi’s new client, the infuriatingly charming Sanmi, turns her world upside down. But as her past catches up, she’s forced to confront everything she’s been running from, including her feelings for Sanmi. Will she find the courage to finally embrace the love she’s always denied herself?

396 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 30, 2025

12 people are currently reading
103 people want to read

About the author

Camaa Pearl

20 books174 followers
Camaa Pearl writes unforgettable, sizzling slow-burn romance for lovers of plot and steam. She is an international bestselling author and storyteller with a refreshingly unique style that borders between reality and fiction.

As a true ambivert, when she is not reading, writing, or creating content, she enjoys traveling, tasty meals, behavioral research and talking The Dream’s ear off. Find her on social media, @camaa_pearl

Pseudonym(s):
Margaret Adetimehin

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
Profile Image for Levy.
139 reviews2 followers
September 6, 2025
2.75

Me to myself: “you never learn, huh?”

I think I’m the problem HELP

The book started off bad (no offence) and then definitely got better after a while. See, the concept was NICE, the writing just did not resonate with me. They call his you know what “Mr Jones” and their sex thing “snack” and that alone removed all the stars. After the first chapter, I was gearing up to make this a hate review but like I said, it did get better. Someone asks if you’re okay after accidentally bumping into you and you’re mad and jumping into conclusions about the person because of that?

It lowkey felt like I was reading two different books when comparing the first few chapters to the rest. The fmc was so annoying and then got better later on. I know she’s supposed to be the grumpy one, but it just felt forced and didn’t even make sense sometimes (my feelings about the first time they met). Also some of the comments made my Abebi didn’t even make sense because she ended up saying something different later on (a comment about Chiluba learning how to be a mum while she’s (Abebi) busy making magic. Fast forward to the middle/end with her saying Chiluba did a lot of stuff and was really good at sewing and other things) see? Two different books.

After hinting at something the entire book, Abebi’s past was finally revealed (wasn’t hard to figure out what it was after the first time) and rushed past (Sanmis too) That made me feel like nothing really happened during the book and that the pacing wasn’t all that great. Which hurts, because IT WAS GOOD. It was heartbreaking and I wish we could’ve spent more time on it.

There’s this part I really liked where she’s like no one will know if she died or something and Sanmi is like Eva will! She will wonder why you don’t call anymore and my heart broke.

I like how ready Sanmi was for Abebi. It was nice to see him so obsessed with her and he acted so fast after she told him about her past. I liked seeing Abebi open up and let down her walls for him. After what she went through? Nah not a lot of people can handle it and having her people by her side really means a lot.

His family was a bonus point too!! Liked them.

Good news though: found out the age gap couple from that book I want to read are in here! Chiluba (friends with abebi) and George I’m so excited!!!
Profile Image for Cee.
188 reviews14 followers
October 20, 2025
A heartfelt, reverse grumpy × sunshine romance that’s equal parts tender, emotional, and beautifully grounded in Nigerian culture.


🏷️ Tropes You’ll Find:

Reverse Grumpy × Sunshine

He Falls First

Emotional Healing

Found Family

Stuttering Rep

Blush Meter

🌶️🌶️ — Warm, emotional intimacy with a few sizzling moments and a lot of tenderness.

This is my first time reading Camaa Pearl’s book. And there’s something about her book that makes you feel a soul-deep ache, the kind that comes when a story holds up a mirror to love and healing. Imagine That is one of those books that sneaks up on you. You start it thinking it’ll be a sweet romance, but by chapter three, you’re highlighting quotes about forgiveness and clutching your chest because somehow, you see yourself in these characters.

Let’s start with Sánmí, because honestly, how could we not? He’s the kind of male lead that makes you rethink your book boyfriend list — the golden retriever energy with a backbone. He’s kind, patient, and intentional in every sense of the word. There’s no arrogance masking softness here — he’s emotionally literate, a rarity in romance heroes. Sánmí doesn’t try to fix Àbèbì; he simply stands by her while she learns how to trust again. When he calls her A-baby, it’s the kind of tenderness that seeps into your bones — you can feel how much he means it.

And then there’s Àbèbì, who might just be one of the most complex heroines I’ve read this year. She’s brilliant and composed on the outside, yet carries a private ache that feels all too familiar. Her stutter isn’t treated as a quirk — it’s part of her identity, shaping how she moves through the world and how the world sees her. That’s what makes her growth so rewarding: watching her learn to let herself be seen, fully and without apology.

There’s a moment where Àbèbì pauses mid-sentence, breath trembling, and Sánmí just waits — no pity, no rush — and I swear my heart did that thing where it squeezes and expands at once. That’s what love looks like: space, not rescue.

Camaa Pearl balances humor, vulnerability, and longing like she’s mixing something sacred. The quick snacks and Mr. Jones moments? Chef’s kiss. It’s the kind of intimacy that feels earned — playful but layered with emotion. And beyond the romance, the book carries a quiet message about unlearning shame, forgiving yourself, and choosing joy again after grief has taken too much.

There’s also something refreshing about how Nigerian this story is — not as backdrop or decoration, but as identity. The language, the banter, the food — all of it grounds the romance in a sense of place that’s vibrant and alive. It’s a love story steeped in culture, not divorced from it.

And let’s talk about the spice. It’s not gratuitous — it’s emotional, connective, sometimes teasingly restrained, sometimes joyfully indulgent. You feel like you’re intruding on something intimate, but in the best way.

By the last chapter, I wasn’t just smiling — I was grateful. Grateful for the way this story didn’t shy away from showing that love isn’t the opposite of pain; it’s what we build in spite of it.

Final Thoughts

Imagine That is more than a romance — it’s a love letter to patience, softness, and self-acceptance. It’s the kind of story that lingers, that makes you check your reflection and think, maybe I deserve that kind of gentle, too.

Camaa Pearl wrote something that glows from the inside out. A novel about finding light after darkness, and realizing you were never too broken to be loved in the first place.

📚For Fans Of

Before I Let Go by Kennedy RyanLove and Other Flight Delays by Denise Williams

Until the next swoon-worthy story… happy reading and happy romancing! 💕
Profile Image for Omowunmi.
5 reviews
August 27, 2025
I don’t even know where to start because this book gave me everything. From page one, I was pulled into Sánmí and Àbèbì’s world, and I couldn’t put it down.
Sánmí is honestly the star of the show for me persistent, patient, and so full of love. He’s that rare kind of male lead who doesn’t just say the right words, he backs them up with actions. The fact that he fell first (and harder 😍) made his journey even more emotional to read. Abebi, with all her layers and guarded heart, made me root for her healing just as much as I rooted for their romance.
What I loved most is how this story wasn’t just about the kisses and the banter it’s about trust, forgiveness, and letting someone in even when it feels scary. Camaa Pearl did an amazing job blending humor, vulnerability, and heart-melting romance, all while giving us a Nigerian setting that feels so alive and authentic.
By the end, I blushed, laughed , and yes… I got misty-eyed. This isn’t just a romance novel it’s a story about love, second chances, and finding light after darkness.
Imagine That is the kind of book that leaves you feeling full and hopeful. Honestly, Camaa Pearl gave us magic with this one, and I can already tell it’s a story I’ll revisit again. 💕
Profile Image for Sonia's  Tales.
86 reviews5 followers
August 29, 2025
A huge thank you to the author, @camaa_pearl, for this ARC. ❤️

‎Reading this book was such a sweet ride—I truly enjoyed every bit of it! It also holds a special place for me because it’s the first Grumpy × Sunshine romance I’ve read, and now it’s officially part of my not so many favourite tropes. 😚

‎My Thoughts 💭

‎I loved Àbèbí's POV, and I instantly connected with her. When I saw the trope “She stutters,” I knew I had to sign up for this ARC, because I stutter too. Seeing such a personal experience represented in a book made me feel seen. 🥹

‎Àbèbí is bold, brilliant, hardworking, and independent. 👏❤️ At first, I thought she was too stiff, but the plot twist made me understand her better. After all she went through, it made sense that she was careful with who she let in. I loved her character development, and thank you @camaa_pearl for making women who stutter feel seen. 🫶

‎Now to Sánmí, my own Ilesánmí (I love the name 😍). I could write a whole essay on how much I love him! He’s well coordinated, patient, KIND (caps for emphasis), romantic, and let’s not forget… he has a well loaded pocket. 😂 Whenever he called Àbèbí "A-baby," the hard girl in me melts. 🥹 Despite her secret, he chose to stay and fight with her. Who go love you, no go stress you! I love Sánmí so much. ❤️

‎Their chemistry? Top notch! The “quick snacks” and “Mr. Jones”? IYKYK. 😉 I also admire their growth and healing from their trauma. The representation of single mothers was beautifully done. 👏 I love the cameos of Chiluba, Georgie, Manir, Zoya, and Bucknor. My only pain was that the ending felt a little rushed. 🥲

‎As for Fidelis and Àbèbí’s father… your heaven is just once view! ☹️

‎Overall, this book will take you on an exciting journey. I highly recommend it!

‎Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Profile Image for L. Leigh.
Author 21 books38 followers
August 6, 2025
I started out being annoyed with the FMC. Which goes to show the talent of the writer. The MMC is book boyfriend material. I liked how he handled the new client his Mum lined up for him.
There is a lot to unpack in this book. Keeping things inside can really make you ill. The universe really does send help to you if you are open to it and mindful to see the signs.
The spicy scenes are hot and I can't look at snacking the same way again.
I did not want it to end as I wanted more after the end.
Profile Image for Lola.
264 reviews10 followers
August 16, 2025
I really enjoy Camaa Pearl’s writing, it’s exactly the kind of style I love to read. This book may not make it into my top five from her, but I still loved the story and, of course, her beautiful writing.

Sanmi and Abebi were such great characters. I admired how Abebi stayed strong despite everything she went through, it was so moving to read. And Sanmi? Definitely book-boyfriend material. Such a gentle, caring man.

That said, I can’t shake the feeling that this isn’t one of my absolute favorites from Camaa Pearl, and that’s perfectly okay. The background plot didn’t feel as solid as I’d hoped, and the ending came off a bit rushed. I didn’t really enjoy the spice in this book like her other books too, but i did blush so many times!

On the brighter side, Chiluba’s cameos? Absolutely beautiful. I too like that babe lol
Profile Image for WithTams.
22 reviews
October 15, 2025
Review

I picked up Imagine That expecting an easy slow-burn romance — something soft to fill the silence between busy days. What I didn’t expect was to feel so much, so quietly.

Camaa Pearl knows how to write human. The story follows Abebi, a woman starting over in Lagos, and Sanmi, the calm, grounded client who somehow slips past every wall she’s built. It’s technically a workplace, reverse grumpy-sunshine romance, but it’s also about healing, boundaries, and the patience that real love requires.

Let me just say this right away: Sanmi is the first male character Camaa has written that I have absolutely no issues with.
He’s the kind of man who listens, who’s soft without losing his strength, who protects without suffocating. His gentleness felt like a quiet kind of power — and honestly, that’s the kind of man I want in my life.

Abebi, though… she’s not easy. And that’s what I loved most about her. She’s fiery, layered, often defensive — but always real. Her stutter, her trauma, her complicated emotions — they’re written with so much empathy. I saw pieces of myself in her hesitation, in her need to stay in control even when she’s desperate to be seen.

Together, Sanmi and Abebi complement each other beautifully.
He softens her sharp edges; she pulls him out of stillness. Their chemistry feels earned, not forced — a slow evolution rather than an instant spark. The result? A romance that feels lived-in and believable.

One of the most impactful threads in this story involves a male “friend” of Abebi’s who crosses lines he has no right to. He takes her kindness as permission, her vulnerability as entitlement. It’s a small subplot, but it hit hard because it mirrors reality. Too often, women pay the price for being open. Camaa handles it quietly but powerfully, reminding us that consent and respect are not optional.

If I had one critique, it’s the pacing — it lingers. Some emotions get revisited a few too many times, and a few chapters could’ve been trimmed without losing their depth. But even in those slower stretches, I never felt disconnected. The stillness has its own reward — it gives space to feel, to breathe, to think about your own patterns in love.

Halfway through, I wrote in my journal:

“Maybe love doesn’t always have to arrive like thunder. Maybe it just stays — gently — until you realize you’re safe.”

That’s what Imagine That feels like. Safe. Quietly healing. Soft in all the places you didn’t know needed softening.

So yes — this book is tender, real, and full of grace. It’s not just a romance; it’s a reminder that slow love, when it’s healthy and kind, can change everything.

Rating: 4 / 5
For Sanmi, for Abebi, and for every woman who’s learning to be soft again.
Profile Image for Estar.
55 reviews
September 3, 2025
I’d first like to say a huge thank you to the author for this ARC.

Imagine That by Camaa Pearl is a beautifully written, heartwarming, and deeply engaging story that I absolutely devoured. From the very first page, I was hooked, and I’m so glad it only got better from there.

This book has one of my favorite tropes; reverse grumpy x sunshine, and it was executed so well. I actually expected nothing less from Camaa.

Sanmi, the MMC, is the golden retriever type of man who falls first, and falls even harder. And honestly, I was sold from the start. He’s thoughtful, romantic, sensitive, and completely down bad for Abebi. And the best part? He’s not ashamed of it.

If there’s anything I adore in a romance, it’s a man who shows up fully for his woman, and Sanmi is the perfect example of that. His patience, kindness, and maturity in handling every situation was everything to me.

Then there’s Abebi… her strength and resilience really stood out to me. She’s been through so much, yet she didn’t let it stop her from growing or pursuing her dreams. I loved watching her character journey, especially the progression of her relationship with Sanmi, from being guarded to learning to trust and let him in.

One of the most refreshing and touching aspects of this book was the stuttering representation. I don’t think I’ve ever come across that in a romance novel before, and I really appreciated the way the author portrayed it with so much care and authenticity. It’s really nice to see underrepresented characters in books.

And yes.. let’s talk about the spice! The tension, the chemistry, the payoff, it was all so well done. I absolutely ate it up.

However, I wish we got to see more of Abebi’s family dynamics. For instance, her conversation with her mother at the end was such an important turning point, and while it was mentioned, I feel it was glossed over. Actually showing that scene would have added even more emotional depth to her character arc and the plot, just as we got glimpses of Sanmi’s family.

Overall though, this was such an amazing read. It delivered on the romance, the character growth, and the emotional part. Camaa Pearl truly gave us a gem with this story.

If you love cinnamon roll MMCs, strong FMCS, and a romance that feels both tender and swoon worthy, then this is definitely a book you don’t want to miss.
Profile Image for Blessing Reads.
40 reviews1 follower
August 31, 2025

Sometimes love doesn’t arrive with fireworks. Camaa Pearl blew my mind away again with this masterpiece.

This story follows Sanmi and Abebi, two complex characters who have known pain in different ways, but yet finds something safe and beautiful in each other. Abebi’s guarded heart is shaped by her past trauma and painful experience, her journey in this book is raw, deep and real. Her stutter was portrayed so vividly and beautifully with care and I loved that.

And Sanmi?? Sanmi unwavering patience is what makes him shine. He’s the definition of intentional, soft, protective and gentle. He doesn’t try to fix Abebi but rather he just stays and thats the kind of love interest that sets the bar so incredibly high. His gentle pursuit for Abebi made this romance so special and satisfying to read.

What stood out to me in this book was how healing was portrayed, not just healing that love brings, but the inner kind of peaceful healing, finding love in the most unexpected ways. The characters development in this book is amazing, watching Abebi learn how to open up and let love in was one of the best parts of this story, her vulnerability was real, genuine, raw and deeply emotional.

Camaa Pearl’s writing as always is emotional, and softly paced. Every line carried weight. She doesn’t just tell a story, she draws you in. The pacing of the book is slow, the romance in this book builds up slowly, allowing you to savor every moment and blush all the way.

This book is a beautifully written romance that reminds us we deserve a love that reassures, stays and protect. I felt the ending of this book was a bit too rushed, i really wanted more insights on Sanmi and Abebi’s journey together, but still it’s perfect.

If you love books with emotional depth, intentional, soft MMC and themes of Emotional safety, healing, and vulnerability, then this book is for you!!! Trust me, it’s worth the read.

Thanks to Camaa Pearl for the ARC copy.
All thoughts and opinions are mine and absolutely real!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Helen Peter.
30 reviews2 followers
August 31, 2025
This book had me smiling, tearing up, and clutching my chest all at once 😭. Camaa’s writing is just so smooth and warm it flows in a way that makes you feel like you’re right there with the characters.

‎Abebi stole my heart. She’s bold and so hardworking. I especially loved how her stutter wasn’t written as a flaw but as part of who she is;real, human, and strong. And then there’s Sanmi… ahhh Sanmi. That man is the blueprint 😌. He made it to the list of unforgettable book boyfriends. He is so patient, kind, and so gentle with Abebi ,it’s impossible not to root for them. Their chemistry? Electric. Their banter? Top tier. The way they supported each other? Beautiful.

You should also pick "Picture this" by the same author to learn more about Abebi and Sanmi(Ilesanmi) lives before their relationship.

‎What I also loved was how the story tackled heavy themes like trauma, healing, and single motherhood with so much care. It felt authentic and not forced. Plus, seeing familiar faces like Chiluba, Georgie, and Zoya pop in made it feel like I was part of a bigger world. And those little inside jokes like “quick snacks” and “Mr. Jones” had me grinning 😂.

‎If I’m being honest, the ending felt a bit rushed(still wondering what happened with Eva 👀). The spice wasn’t as intense as some of her other books, but it still gave what it was supposed to give,sweet, emotional, and blush-worthy.

‎Overall, this was such a touching, funny, and emotional romance. Imagine That is about love, healing, and showing up for yourself and the people you care about. For me, it’s a solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5. Definitely worth picking up if you love African romance that feels both real and heartwarming.
158 reviews8 followers
August 29, 2025
I know I have read a very good book when after I finish, I breathe in and out and stare into space and keep rehearsing several plots and dialogues in my head........ Imagine That gave me that kinda feeling.
From their meeting, to Sanmi swaying Abebi to be involved in what he was venturing on that time, to being friends, to being the core of each other regardless of the barriers and barricades they needed to cross had me with several goose bumps all over.

You see that hand moulding scene?, when I read that part, I just knew Sanmi was gone and there was no looking back. I could literally feel his love for Abebi, even though as things unfolded towards the end of the book I was so scared, alas a lover boy would still be a lover boy regardless.

Imagine That wasn't just about love, it was about choosing oneself, survival and coming out strong. Abebi passed through a lot, that shaped her to what she was and I'm glad she had her happy ending.
For what her dad made her pass through, that made her jarred, he was such a monster. I would have loved to see him agonize for his atrocities.

this was a beautiful read for me and I rate it a 4.5⭐
Profile Image for Maranatha Abutu.
Author 7 books17 followers
October 5, 2025
It took me a while to get into this one because of my new work schedule, but alas, we made it!

One thing I really love about Camaa’s writing is her consistent representation, and this book didn’t fall short of that. Kudos to her for always bringing that on.

Abebi and Sanmi’s story was beautiful, and I genuinely liked the Male main character. Given all that Abebi had been through, her caution made sense, though some moments of her grumpiness didn’t quite match the tone of what we were reading. Some of the dialogues I wasn’t sure too.

I also loved how Sanmi’s decision to stay was instant. That was such a highlight for me. I just wish his comment about single mothers had been addressed; it felt like an important part left hanging because it led to her doubt.

I also love the mother’s instant acceptance of Abebi being in Lagos. The father, wow! No words.

Looking forward to reading about Eva and Abebi’s re-entry into the States.

Overall, a good book.

This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Lammie.
15 reviews1 follower
August 24, 2025
I received this book as ARC and I enjoyed every bit of the story!
As usual, one thing that stands out for me with Camaa’s book is how all her FMC are fully independent, I mean they always have something going on for them! And how she connects all her books, she does that so well!!

Now to Abebi and Sanmi’s story, it’s a beautiful one. I give it to the FMC, despite everything that could hinder her or her progress, she carried herself perfectly. I mean, to think she has so much within her, yet she played it cool! And the MMC is the perfect book boyfriend, trust me! You want a man that loves you, wants you, yet so patient and calm, Sanmi is that guy. I love how family was also really involved in this story. A lot of things I wasn’t expecting at all..Even though I was craving more of their story, but it is what it is.

Camaa Pearl, you deserve all the hype as usual!❤️
3 reviews
August 28, 2025
I loved Abebi and Sanumi’s story very much. I absolutely loved how strong Abebi was…maybe a little too strong because it took her so long to allow herself be vulnerable for Sanmi but strong women are golden, aren’t they!
I also loved how the author captured the reality of alot of women not often falling for pick up lines so easily anymore, it added some reality while ensuring the humor was maintained in the book. The little bit of Wit and banter we experienced was unmatched. I also totally loved how they couldn’t keep their hands off each other, their snacking was constant!

I did want to know more about Eva’s story though because I felt like there was more to be seen there.

Oh and the playlist! Literally golden!!! Very very very fitting for the book. Thank you so much for the ARC. I can’t wait to get my hands on the physical copy
Profile Image for The Urban Book Nook.
348 reviews
September 3, 2025
I may be late to the ARC party, but wow—this story was worth every page. Imagine That is more than a romance; it’s a layered story about trust, vulnerability, and the courage it takes to let yourself be fully loved.

Abebi and Sanmi’s journey is full of emotional depth, warmth, and a few spicy surprises 👀🔥. What I loved most is how their connection grew even in the face of secrets and challenges—it felt honest, heartfelt, and inspiring. The way Sanmi loved Abebi, flaws and all, pulled me right in. And the details, like how her stutter was written with such care, made the characters feel so real.

Was the ending a little rushed? Maybe—but the emotional payoff and the way this book made me feel absolutely delivered. It’s one of those stories that reminds you love isn’t just about attraction; it’s about acceptance, healing, and showing up for each other.
Profile Image for Auggie.
91 reviews1 follower
August 25, 2025

ARC Review: Imagine That by Camaa Pearl

The way șánmí calls Abebi, A-baby ☺️ Ouuu *faints*

This book takes us on a journey of love that includes forgiveness, healing, and trauma. Sanmi meets Abebi at a wedding in Dubai, but she shuts him down faster than lightning 😂. They bump into each other again in Lagos, and persistent Sanmi will not take no for an answer.

Abebi, now A-baby, has secrets she’s been hiding for years and many walls up guarding her heart🥺. As a flower girl, Sanmi won my heart ♥️ big time! His constant reassurances ☺️

I give Imagine That a solid 4/5 ✨. If you love African or Nigerian romance, then this one is for you. It is available for preorder and will be released on August 30th.

Big thanks to Camaa for the Advance Reader's Copy.
Profile Image for Dusty_spines.
10 reviews1 follower
August 28, 2025
Huge thank you to Camaa Pearl for sending me an ARC of Imagine That!🤭

This was such a fun, heartfelt reverse grumpy-sunshine romance. Abebi and Sanmi's dynamic had me hooked... their banter, the tension, and the way their feelings slowly crept in kept me turning pages. And omg, Sanmi completely stole my heart...he's now on my endless list of book boyfriends😭💖. Also, if you've read this book,
you'll agree with me that snacking will never feel the same again😂😭. And Mr. Jones? IYKYK🌚

I rated it 4⭐️ because while I really enjoyed it, the ending felt a little rushed....I was curious about what happened with Eva.

If you love African romance, this is definitely one to add to your TBR. It's available for preorder now and will be released on August 30th!
Profile Image for Oluwakemi Aliu.
13 reviews
Read
October 11, 2025
This book is a reverse grumpy sunshine romance. Here our FMC has a lot of past trauma. She had closed herself to love when she meets our MMC who is a vibrant guy and hellbent on proving to her that she deserves love and most especially from him.

I loved the writing of this romance book. The MMC and expressing his feeling 🤞. He never let anytime pass without making her feel appreciated and seen. All my favorite quotes were from him. To be loved is to be seen.
I loved our FMC stayed true to herself throughout the book, only changing and opening up when she was sure he was here to stay. She took the time to go through her issues and never rushed herself. Love wasn’t the answer to all her problems but it sure did help😍.
Lastly the spicy scenessssss, Be ready😉🌶
Profile Image for Lawlah.
234 reviews18 followers
August 15, 2025
Thank you to the author for this ARC!

This book was such a wholesome read. I loved watching Abebi grow and come to the realization that she loved Sanmi. And Sanmi—my man was finished for Abebi. The way he loved her, showed up for her without any fanfare, simply wanting his babe to be okay, melted my heart.

I especially appreciated the representation of Abebi’s stutter—it was handled with care and authenticity. The reverse grumpy/sunshine dynamic was perfect: Abebi as the grumpy and Sanmi as the sunshine brought such charm to their romance.

A solid 4-star read for me, and I highly recommend it!
9 reviews
August 15, 2025
This is a great five star read!

I love the representation of different themes in the book. I love the character development of FMC especially as she moves from being unsure and always in her shell to being confident and expressive.
I also love that none of the characters have any toxic flaws and Sanmi is such a great book boyfriend.
However, I don't like that his comment on single mothers was not properly addressed. After Abebi expressed her feelings, he did his best to reassure her but it still didn't address if he actually felt that way about single mothers.
Nonetheless, this is a 5 star read for me and I will always recommend it to my friends.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Tolulope Kayode.
5 reviews
October 14, 2025
This story follows Sanni and Abebi.
Sanni is this sunshine ,life is good and hardworking guy. You see that he’s a silver lining kind of guy.

Abebi is this calm , collected lady who obviously has walls up and for valid reasons.

We see how love that is intentional builds your trust and teaches you that it can be reliable
The book was set in Nigeria

Themes in the book - family estrangement,romance, work and career building, friendship and guilt.

I loved the pacing of the story, getting to see and understand the Character’s motivations. It was refreshing seeing mature people in love - miscommunication trope out the door please

4/5 read for me

Profile Image for Drama Queen.
5 reviews
August 23, 2025
Sammi is the most patient man to be able to crack abebi's shell because that man was so patient and I could understand abebi because of what happened to her and chiluba always bursting my brain whichever book she appears because girl is a girls girl🥰🥰
Anyways There love was so beautiful and I don't want to give any spoilers because you are in for a ride and trust camaa pearl to put you out for a big ride so please I beg you,grab a copy of this book when it's out on 30th of August and you are going to thank me🥰
Profile Image for By Habibat.
75 reviews
August 29, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
love that the MCs were progressing, slowly building up their relationship. The MMC was a really intentional, sweet and understanding man, he left the decision to her, never argued, just went with her flow and in her own pace. The FMC has a traumatic past and she also holds a secret she's keeping from her family. This is a very slow burn, even for the author. I loved it.
However, the ending felt rushed, or maybe the preceding chapters were to long but they were necessary. So it's the ending that was too short and rushed.

I didn't want it to end!!!
Profile Image for Blessing Matthew  Bitrus .
57 reviews1 follower
September 15, 2025
Sometimes the hardest thing isn’t falling in love, it’s believing you deserve it.

That’s what Imagine That felt like to me. Abebi’s story of starting over in Lagos and trying to outrun her past hit deep. And then there’s Sanmi; persistent, funny, full of light, who gently but firmly pushes her to open up again.

This isn’t just a romance; it’s a reminder that vulnerability is brave, and love can be the safest place to land. The Lagos setting brought everything alive, from the hustle of the city to the tender, quieter moments.
75 reviews
October 10, 2025
This is the first reverse sunshine/grumpy romance novel I’ve read. It didn’t disappoint at all.
To have a man like Sanmi in your life…the greenest of flags.
I love how he was able to bring Abebi ( I love this name and can just imagine Sanmi saying it!) out of her shell. Their dynamic was a breath of fresh air.
The only tiny issue I had was that I felt their getting together was a bit rushed. One minute Abebi was saying no and the next minute she couldn’t wait to get him in her bed.
A solid book overall. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4 reviews
August 23, 2025
I really enjoyed this book
I thought Sanmi was doing too much at first but he grew on me.
The way he loved and cared for Abebi was so heartwarming 🥹🥹even after she told him her secret(A plot twist I didn’t expect).
I love that she was able to open up to him and finally saw that he loved her.

I also loved how her stutter was expressed so beautifully.
The spicy scenes too(I’ll never see “quick quick snack” the same way again😂😂).
But then again,I feel the ending was rushed,I wanted to see their story progress further.
And for fidelis and abebi’s father DEATH ROWW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
I can’t believe he was pretending all along anyways this book is a very good read,I highly recommend.
5 reviews
August 21, 2025
Imagine That is a heartfelt romance that goes deeper than just attraction. It’s a story about trust, vulnerability, and the courage it takes to let someone love you fully. I really enjoyed how the author blended emotional depth with moments of warmth and connection, making the relationship feel both real and inspiring.

If you love romances that balance passion with healing and hope, this one is worth picking up.
Profile Image for Chanel.
447 reviews5 followers
August 25, 2025
Thank you for this arc. I really did like this story.
I truly respect and adore how strong the main female character was. She wasn’t backing down or falling easily. She was standing on her own and I loved that. She had determination and goals.
This was my first book by Camaa. I like her writing style.
This was an easy and quick read.

Now I was all into the storyline, so at the end I was expecting a little more. I wanna know what happens with Eva 😩

Side note: I will never look at “snacking” the same way lol 😂
Profile Image for Adeola Aluko.
4 reviews
August 29, 2025
I fell in love with the book from the first chapter… Trust Camaa pearl to always deliver. It was not just a love story, loved how it dived into childhood trauma and how it affects growing up and certain walls built up just because of those traumas. Sanmi and Abebi love story didn’t start as a love story but a liking interest and “Deja vu” in sanmi’s words. You need to read this book to find out more surprises…xx
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Eniola loves to read.
5 reviews
October 16, 2025
Imagine That is currently tussling with Bottom Belle as my favourite Camaa Pearl book. That's how much I enjoyed reading it. Sanmi was exactly what Abebi needed after the horrible experiences she had in the past. She was forced to grow up too fast, and that would make anyone be too hard on themself trying to prove something. This is me campaigning for more reverse grumpy/sunshine with a dash of slow burn romance.
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