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Love Me Not
If love is war, Cassia James is the mushroom cloud.
Three years ago, Cassia "Cass" James went nuclear on a Hollywood red carpet, exposing her cheating fiancé and backstabbing best friend in front of the world. The fallout? A career in shambles, a reputation in ruins, and a yearly resurgence of memes that make February feel like a cruel joke.
Now, with a podcast feature promising her one last shot at reclaiming her image, Cass is ready to stage the performance of a lifetime at her annual Love Me Not anti-Valentine’s Day party. There’s just one she needs a date to sell the charade.
Enter Malik—the tattoo artist who’s been quietly holding her together for three long years and the only person Cass trusts enough to ask for help.
But Malik isn’t just another prop in Cass’s chaotic narrative. He’s the steady presence who’s seen her at her lowest, the one who challenges her razor-sharp defenses without flinching. And as they continue to fool the world, Cass begins to realize something Maybe it's not so fake after all.
Cass must face the truth she’s been running you can’t rewrite your story until you stop hiding from it.
Love is messy. Love is hard. But love might just be worth the risk.
"Love Me Not" is a sharp, witty, and emotionally raw contemporary romance about second chances, emotional vulnerability, and the love we find when we’re not too scared to fight for it.
Three years ago, Cassia "Cass" James went nuclear on a Hollywood red carpet, exposing her cheating fiancé and backstabbing best friend in front of the world. The fallout? A career in shambles, a reputation in ruins, and a yearly resurgence of memes that make February feel like a cruel joke.
Now, with a podcast feature promising her one last shot at reclaiming her image, Cass is ready to stage the performance of a lifetime at her annual Love Me Not anti-Valentine’s Day party. There’s just one she needs a date to sell the charade.
Enter Malik—the tattoo artist who’s been quietly holding her together for three long years and the only person Cass trusts enough to ask for help.
But Malik isn’t just another prop in Cass’s chaotic narrative. He’s the steady presence who’s seen her at her lowest, the one who challenges her razor-sharp defenses without flinching. And as they continue to fool the world, Cass begins to realize something Maybe it's not so fake after all.
Cass must face the truth she’s been running you can’t rewrite your story until you stop hiding from it.
Love is messy. Love is hard. But love might just be worth the risk.
"Love Me Not" is a sharp, witty, and emotionally raw contemporary romance about second chances, emotional vulnerability, and the love we find when we’re not too scared to fight for it.
- GenresRomance
226 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 2, 2025
46 people are currently reading
141 people want to read
About the author
Ayla Cox
6 books43 followersWelcome to Ayla Cox’s kinky world. When she’s not on her knees in a fit of passion and lust, she’s devouring any book she can get her hands on. On the off chance that Ayla has time off, you may find her frolicking on a beach or hiding away in a lake cabin, recharging her batteries, both figuratively and literally. If you love what you’ve read, give her a follow and leave a few encouraging words.
Ayla can be found on TikTok @AylaCoxWrites.
Ayla can be found on TikTok @AylaCoxWrites.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
June 19, 2025
Good
3.5 This book was light and cute. I like this story. This is my second book by her and I like her writing style.
3.5 This book was light and cute. I like this story. This is my second book by her and I like her writing style.
February 11, 2025
Crash out…..it’ll make you feel better
This book started with a fantastic crashout and it was only up from there. My first read from Ayla Cox but it won’t be my last.
This book started with a fantastic crashout and it was only up from there. My first read from Ayla Cox but it won’t be my last.
February 7, 2025
Aching Slow burn read
OMG this read was deliciously slow but I get it because the angst in this read was building something beautiful and I loved that for Cassie and Malik… I was teetering the entire read because can we just fall in love already but nevertheless Cas got her HEA and that’s all that matters
OMG this read was deliciously slow but I get it because the angst in this read was building something beautiful and I loved that for Cassie and Malik… I was teetering the entire read because can we just fall in love already but nevertheless Cas got her HEA and that’s all that matters
February 16, 2025
This was a 3.5 for me.
After experiencing heartbreak of the worst kind Cassia is kind of turned off from love and is just trying to get herself and her professional live on together after her actions in the past caused her some issues in her career. She met Malik before she started crashing and he stayed by her side through it all being a good friend to her. When the idea came about that he could pose as her fake boyfriend to aide in her "comeback" he agreed it of course the fake dating turned into him expressing feelings for her that she didn't know were there.
Once Cassia saw that Malik wanted more than to just be her fake boyfriend and they decided to make it real, the chemistry between them was there and was nice seeing her show a different side to her character. It was also nice seeing how Malik let her see what it meant to be loved the right way and I enjoyed the two of them together. That being said, while I enjoyed the book and where it went, the writing at times was a little repetitive which took a little away from the story to me.
After experiencing heartbreak of the worst kind Cassia is kind of turned off from love and is just trying to get herself and her professional live on together after her actions in the past caused her some issues in her career. She met Malik before she started crashing and he stayed by her side through it all being a good friend to her. When the idea came about that he could pose as her fake boyfriend to aide in her "comeback" he agreed it of course the fake dating turned into him expressing feelings for her that she didn't know were there.
Once Cassia saw that Malik wanted more than to just be her fake boyfriend and they decided to make it real, the chemistry between them was there and was nice seeing her show a different side to her character. It was also nice seeing how Malik let her see what it meant to be loved the right way and I enjoyed the two of them together. That being said, while I enjoyed the book and where it went, the writing at times was a little repetitive which took a little away from the story to me.
June 8, 2025
3.25⭐️’s
March 30, 2025
3.5 ST🌟RS
Ayla cox on ijustreadthisbook—the podcast THURSDAY APRIL 3 2025‼️‼️‼️
Ayla cox on ijustreadthisbook—the podcast THURSDAY APRIL 3 2025‼️‼️‼️
February 24, 2025
Randomly stumbled across an ad for a new to me indie author and I had to give it a try. This is set around Valentines Day, but with a twist of having an anti Valentines Day party. It is a super sweet and spicy best friends to lovers, fake dating novella with a tattooed Golden Retriever hero. I had a lot of fun reading this novella and will look to read more from the author soon.
February 11, 2025
Cassia exposed her cheating ex and boss in a red carpet storm of fury, and years later, still can't live down the infamy, although it hasn't done anything for her struggling career. When she's asked to do a podcast on where she is now, she enlists the help of Malik, her tattoo artist and best friend, as a fake boyfriend so she doesn't still look so scorned. But what if he's not faking?
This was a wonderful story. I love Cass's spunk and personality, her vulnerability and fearlessness, and her hope. She was well-rounded and full of beauty, even in her stubbornness. Malik was stalwart, faithful, and so supportive. He smoldered in the best way, and I love the way he made any and everything happen for Cass. His devotion was adorable and although she calls him a puppy for his abject adoration, he was a big dog when it was time to be one. Their chemistry and passion wrapped me up; I didn't want to let them go, and I love how honest they were about their feelings.
The confrontation with her past had me worried for Cass, because she was a track star when it came to her emotions, but she proved me wrong and I loved that. Good book.
This was a wonderful story. I love Cass's spunk and personality, her vulnerability and fearlessness, and her hope. She was well-rounded and full of beauty, even in her stubbornness. Malik was stalwart, faithful, and so supportive. He smoldered in the best way, and I love the way he made any and everything happen for Cass. His devotion was adorable and although she calls him a puppy for his abject adoration, he was a big dog when it was time to be one. Their chemistry and passion wrapped me up; I didn't want to let them go, and I love how honest they were about their feelings.
The confrontation with her past had me worried for Cass, because she was a track star when it came to her emotions, but she proved me wrong and I loved that. Good book.
February 2, 2025
Malik is a golden retriever for Cass. It brings him joy to bring her joy, and he's been there for her since she blew her life up on the red carpet a few years ago. When Cass gets an opportunity to elevate her status and bank account balance, Malik steps up as her fake boyfriend, but nothing about it feels fake to either of them. Cass blinks, and suddenly, Malik is a big, sexy man with soft lips. And once she sees him as more than just her best friend, the slow burn begins. And it burns so good. There is tension and banter. The build-up is so good. This book had me in my feels: laughing and kicking my feet and clutching my pearls. It was a well-rounded romance in a compact package. I couldn't put it down!
February 9, 2025
Short & Sweet
Cute, minimal drama, & the right amount of spice in this friends to lovers novella. Malik has been rooting for Cassie throughout all of her ups & downs. When an opportunity presents itself for Malik to be her fake boyfriend… feelings that weren’t front & center are now present. Cassie is beginning to feel the same way but is uncertain whether or not she wants to disclose… Malik is hesitant as well. However, when the time is right there is no fighting the inevitable.
Malik & Cass💛
Cute, minimal drama, & the right amount of spice in this friends to lovers novella. Malik has been rooting for Cassie throughout all of her ups & downs. When an opportunity presents itself for Malik to be her fake boyfriend… feelings that weren’t front & center are now present. Cassie is beginning to feel the same way but is uncertain whether or not she wants to disclose… Malik is hesitant as well. However, when the time is right there is no fighting the inevitable.
Malik & Cass💛
February 3, 2025
Hooked me early
I started reading this as I was getting ready for church this morning, thinking I'd just read a page or two to get the feel of it, and ended up getting so sucked it I was almost ruining late. LOL The opening scene was hilarious, and I adored Malik. He made this for me.
My first read from this author and I'll definitely be looking for more from her 'cause I'm a fan now.
I started reading this as I was getting ready for church this morning, thinking I'd just read a page or two to get the feel of it, and ended up getting so sucked it I was almost ruining late. LOL The opening scene was hilarious, and I adored Malik. He made this for me.
My first read from this author and I'll definitely be looking for more from her 'cause I'm a fan now.
February 11, 2025
I love a patient man!
Listen... Every woman needs a Malik in their life. Confident, patient, thoughtful, HOT AF. This story was a wonderful mix of humor woven into the slow burn of two friends becoming lovers. I enjoyed the unraveling of Cass' denial that she was in love with her friend. Sometimes love can be right in our face and we find every excuse not to embrace it. Malik said the time for excuses is over! Loved it!
Listen... Every woman needs a Malik in their life. Confident, patient, thoughtful, HOT AF. This story was a wonderful mix of humor woven into the slow burn of two friends becoming lovers. I enjoyed the unraveling of Cass' denial that she was in love with her friend. Sometimes love can be right in our face and we find every excuse not to embrace it. Malik said the time for excuses is over! Loved it!
March 19, 2025
So freaking cute!
5 phenomenal stars
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
10/10 do recommend!
Cassia and Malik couldn't be more perfect for each other!!! From crash out Queen to Malik's Queen.
Cassia is much softer than she appears to be she just needed her special someone to make her feel safe and loved enough to show it. Malik is that someone, he always has been.
A short book that feels longer, she packed a lot of plot and storyline into this.
It's my first Ayla Cox book but it won't be my last.
5 phenomenal stars
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
10/10 do recommend!
Cassia and Malik couldn't be more perfect for each other!!! From crash out Queen to Malik's Queen.
Cassia is much softer than she appears to be she just needed her special someone to make her feel safe and loved enough to show it. Malik is that someone, he always has been.
A short book that feels longer, she packed a lot of plot and storyline into this.
It's my first Ayla Cox book but it won't be my last.
May 27, 2025
This book is for the lovers!
Ayla Cox. I didn't know she is so good. I need more hype around her and her writing. This book gave me all the feels. And I love this couple together. It's not just a love story in the romantic sense, but also when it comes to friendship and community. Cassia is definitely someone I could see myself being friends with and Malik is the perfect book boyfriend and friends. The book was so good! I am excited to read more from the author.
Ayla Cox. I didn't know she is so good. I need more hype around her and her writing. This book gave me all the feels. And I love this couple together. It's not just a love story in the romantic sense, but also when it comes to friendship and community. Cassia is definitely someone I could see myself being friends with and Malik is the perfect book boyfriend and friends. The book was so good! I am excited to read more from the author.
August 19, 2025
I really enjoyed this one! Cass was funny and very relatable to me especially with her little spiral sessions. Could definitely see myself in her.
Malik is definitely book bae material. He was there for her. He participated in her shenanigans, let her have her little spiral moments and then picked her up back up and set her straight. He accepted her for who she was and loved her.
This was a new to me author and I will be reading more of her catalog.
Malik is definitely book bae material. He was there for her. He participated in her shenanigans, let her have her little spiral moments and then picked her up back up and set her straight. He accepted her for who she was and loved her.
This was a new to me author and I will be reading more of her catalog.
February 5, 2025
Friends to Lovers
The was great for about 50% but by 75% I was kind of over it. Slow burn in a novella is always going to be a tough read for me and I might have waited if I’d known. It was a cute concept but between the slow burn and the repetitive use of certain actions and phrases I just wasn’t invested by the time it got to the end.
The was great for about 50% but by 75% I was kind of over it. Slow burn in a novella is always going to be a tough read for me and I might have waited if I’d known. It was a cute concept but between the slow burn and the repetitive use of certain actions and phrases I just wasn’t invested by the time it got to the end.
June 15, 2025
sometimes it's your best friend 😏
A beautiful, palate cleanser when you just want good old best friends turn into lovers read. Malik was there through it all and from my POV, he was just waiting for Cassia to open her eyes and see that he was already everything that she needed and that she was enough for anyone!
A beautiful, palate cleanser when you just want good old best friends turn into lovers read. Malik was there through it all and from my POV, he was just waiting for Cassia to open her eyes and see that he was already everything that she needed and that she was enough for anyone!
February 3, 2025
I loved this cute story, I do not blame Cassia for showing out. Malik was the perfect gentleman and best friend. I love that he was there for her and helped bring her back to the beautiful women she is.
March 6, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. This was my first read by the author, and it will not be my last. I love a good friends to lovers romance. Add in fake dating, and this book was perfection. Cassia and Malik were perfect for each other, and I'm glad they figured it out. Her revenge on her ex and her exfriend was everything. They thought they had her beat, but she came out on top. The way Malik loved on Cassia was everything. He knew her inside and out, so when their relationship progressed, he knew what he she needed even when she didn't. I can't wait to read more by this author.
February 5, 2025
I’m a slow burn girlie and this one was satisfying. I love Ayla’s storytelling. This got me ready to dive into the rest of her catalog.
February 17, 2025
Really enjoyed this book! 4.5⭐️ only wish there were one or two extra chapters in the end!
February 21, 2025
Miss!
I never say this but I could have read 50 more pages. This was good and I’m definitely going to be reading more of your work.
I never say this but I could have read 50 more pages. This was good and I’m definitely going to be reading more of your work.
March 23, 2025
another five stars
I love finding good books with a storyline 10 out of 10 a good plot twist and a happy ending chefs kiss
I love finding good books with a storyline 10 out of 10 a good plot twist and a happy ending chefs kiss
April 29, 2025
LOVE Me Not
ABSOLUTELY lovely, sweet, and drama free. It was such a lovely read and enjoyable. Really enjoyed Malik and Cass allowing their love to grow.
ABSOLUTELY lovely, sweet, and drama free. It was such a lovely read and enjoyable. Really enjoyed Malik and Cass allowing their love to grow.
May 15, 2025
Black Romance Book Fest 2025 Reading Challenge 117/130
March 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️.75 ; 🌶️🌶️.75 ; 📱
The writing was diabolically cringe… 🤢🤮 but the characters were so cute together 🥰
C:5 A:5 W:3 P:5 I:5 L:7 E:6
The writing was diabolically cringe… 🤢🤮 but the characters were so cute together 🥰
C:5 A:5 W:3 P:5 I:5 L:7 E:6
April 23, 2025
Don’t you just love when a crash out finds her happy ending. Cass and Malik fit so well together. He truly helped her stay grounded with his calming demeanor. Also, I feel like ‘Sure Thing’ by Miguel would be the a good song to match the story vibes.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews