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Their friendship survived the sparks. Their love will have to survive the ring.
One Valentine's Day Night of crossing the line between friends and something more turned into Damian Knight and Desni Valentine circling back for more of what their hearts wanted. Now, with decisions made during a Friendsgiving weekend, the two stand at a crossroads between repeating the same cycles or starting new lives, forgetting what has grown between them.
Old wounds, hard choices, and the bright lights of the ring threaten to tear them apart before they ever truly begin.
Because in the game of love and loyalty, not every fight can be won with fists.
One Love. Two Hearts. A Couple of Rings That Might Break Them Apart.
One Valentine's Day Night of crossing the line between friends and something more turned into Damian Knight and Desni Valentine circling back for more of what their hearts wanted. Now, with decisions made during a Friendsgiving weekend, the two stand at a crossroads between repeating the same cycles or starting new lives, forgetting what has grown between them.
Old wounds, hard choices, and the bright lights of the ring threaten to tear them apart before they ever truly begin.
Because in the game of love and loyalty, not every fight can be won with fists.
One Love. Two Hearts. A Couple of Rings That Might Break Them Apart.
354 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 13, 2025
24 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
April 30, 2025
A.R.C. Review
FINALLY!!!! I was so excited when the author said she would be writing about one of my favorite couples in the Belafonte & Friends books!!!
Damian & Desni stole my heart in their valentines novella Just Kick’n eat, and had my mouth agaped in Friendsgiving with the Belafonte’s.
The author teased so much and she finally gave me what I wanted “Rings”!!!
This messy, toxic, love story between homie lover friends is definitely in my top 5 for 2025 ( and I have already read almost 70 books) reads!
Dam & Des grew up together and were about of the trio of best friends. When they crossed the line on several occasions it was so obvious that they were meant to be. But between their relationships with other people, bad timing, and unexpected oppsies it just seemed like they wouldn’t get it right, until after the big fight in the ring that changed everything!
Ya’ll I’m not going to lie this is a must read but I would recommend you read Just Kickin It (which is a novella) and Friendsgiving so you can get all the tea before you dive in!!
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
10/10 highly recommend
Spice level 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
FINALLY!!!! I was so excited when the author said she would be writing about one of my favorite couples in the Belafonte & Friends books!!!
Damian & Desni stole my heart in their valentines novella Just Kick’n eat, and had my mouth agaped in Friendsgiving with the Belafonte’s.
The author teased so much and she finally gave me what I wanted “Rings”!!!
This messy, toxic, love story between homie lover friends is definitely in my top 5 for 2025 ( and I have already read almost 70 books) reads!
Dam & Des grew up together and were about of the trio of best friends. When they crossed the line on several occasions it was so obvious that they were meant to be. But between their relationships with other people, bad timing, and unexpected oppsies it just seemed like they wouldn’t get it right, until after the big fight in the ring that changed everything!
Ya’ll I’m not going to lie this is a must read but I would recommend you read Just Kickin It (which is a novella) and Friendsgiving so you can get all the tea before you dive in!!
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
10/10 highly recommend
Spice level 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
May 13, 2025
ARC review
Pub date: 5/13/25
I was so excited and happy that Damian and Desni were getting there on story, especially with how Friendsgiving ended. When I tell you I was not expecting the messiness and emotional rollercoaster, this book took me on, especially for the first 50 % of the story. I wanted to shake both Desni and Damian so bad because they could not get it together, and it was so frustrating.
If you haven't read Just Kickin it and Friendsgiving with the Belafonte's, then you don't know that Damain and Desni are childhood to adulthood best friends. They end up crossing that line on Valentines Day and continue having a friends with benefits situationship. Both had other situations going on; Damain's was off and on, but Desni's started to get series, which eventually caused the infamous love triangle. I will admit I am not a fan of love triangle tropes, but the author really did a good job with this one.
It is safe to say that the timing was not on their side. Damain realizing too late that he wanted more with his best friend Desni, and Desni also not facing the feelings she had for him, made for a very messy situation that ended in a sad way causing lots of hurt. I really needed them to get out of their heads and express themselves, it would've solved so much. I am happy that once everything blew up, the author kept them apart so they could work on themselves individually and actual heal. Damain's growth was a highlight for me. His fear of abandonment really had him holding back and almost losing the love of his life.
This was all around a good second chance love story, and I am very happy with the conclusion.
Pub date: 5/13/25
I was so excited and happy that Damian and Desni were getting there on story, especially with how Friendsgiving ended. When I tell you I was not expecting the messiness and emotional rollercoaster, this book took me on, especially for the first 50 % of the story. I wanted to shake both Desni and Damian so bad because they could not get it together, and it was so frustrating.
If you haven't read Just Kickin it and Friendsgiving with the Belafonte's, then you don't know that Damain and Desni are childhood to adulthood best friends. They end up crossing that line on Valentines Day and continue having a friends with benefits situationship. Both had other situations going on; Damain's was off and on, but Desni's started to get series, which eventually caused the infamous love triangle. I will admit I am not a fan of love triangle tropes, but the author really did a good job with this one.
It is safe to say that the timing was not on their side. Damain realizing too late that he wanted more with his best friend Desni, and Desni also not facing the feelings she had for him, made for a very messy situation that ended in a sad way causing lots of hurt. I really needed them to get out of their heads and express themselves, it would've solved so much. I am happy that once everything blew up, the author kept them apart so they could work on themselves individually and actual heal. Damain's growth was a highlight for me. His fear of abandonment really had him holding back and almost losing the love of his life.
This was all around a good second chance love story, and I am very happy with the conclusion.
May 3, 2025
Desni & dame. The beauty and the boxer ♥️
And they just couldn't get it figured OUT
Was it actual confusion or just straight up TRIPPIN? 😂 All I know is, this story had my emotions going haywire ‼️ they were longtime besties, like the 3 musketeers along with Kennedy,playing a long game of quietly blurring the lines of platonic and romantic. They were the only ones that thought it was under wraps because EVERYONE has seen it since the beginning. Now deep in separate lives, in different relationships. ESP Desni, now engaged to .... another boxer. One spicy night of indulgence has made things... interesting 😂. Egos & emotions in & out the ring !! These two had me rolling my eyes and pulling out my hair, yet still giving me butterflies and smiles. I fell for the characters and rooted so HARD for everyone tbh. I gasped, laughed and teared up. Danielle writes Black Romance WELL. I'm never disappointed. Thankyou for giving me another book boyfriend 😂🥰
And they just couldn't get it figured OUT
Was it actual confusion or just straight up TRIPPIN? 😂 All I know is, this story had my emotions going haywire ‼️ they were longtime besties, like the 3 musketeers along with Kennedy,playing a long game of quietly blurring the lines of platonic and romantic. They were the only ones that thought it was under wraps because EVERYONE has seen it since the beginning. Now deep in separate lives, in different relationships. ESP Desni, now engaged to .... another boxer. One spicy night of indulgence has made things... interesting 😂. Egos & emotions in & out the ring !! These two had me rolling my eyes and pulling out my hair, yet still giving me butterflies and smiles. I fell for the characters and rooted so HARD for everyone tbh. I gasped, laughed and teared up. Danielle writes Black Romance WELL. I'm never disappointed. Thankyou for giving me another book boyfriend 😂🥰
September 7, 2025
Rings by Danielle Brooks was such an enjoyable read! This love story had all the feels, with an unexpected love triangle that brought plenty of drama and tension. What I really loved was the symbolism of the title—Damian’s life as a boxer paralleled both the physical fight in the ring and the emotional battles within his relationship. The way everything came full circle, much like a ring itself, made for a powerful and thoughtful ending.
While boxing was present, the heart of the story was really about love, relationships, and resilience, which I appreciated. My only small gripe? I wish we had closure on who actually won the fight between Jo and Damian. Still, as a conclusion to their story, it was satisfying and heartfelt.
While boxing was present, the heart of the story was really about love, relationships, and resilience, which I appreciated. My only small gripe? I wish we had closure on who actually won the fight between Jo and Damian. Still, as a conclusion to their story, it was satisfying and heartfelt.
May 5, 2025
Whew… I could write a whole thesis on Desni and Damian. Danielle didn’t just write this book she poured her soul into it. I’ve been following their story since Kenderella, and watching their connection grow has been nothing short of magic. This was the very definition of homie to lover to soulmate.
My emotions were on a rollercoaster the entire time one moment I was swooning, the next I was clenching my teeth, holding my breath. Desni had my heart in a vice; being caught between two men, each fighting for her love, was both heartbreaking and intoxicating. But in the end… the true king rose, and he won her heart and mine too.
My emotions were on a rollercoaster the entire time one moment I was swooning, the next I was clenching my teeth, holding my breath. Desni had my heart in a vice; being caught between two men, each fighting for her love, was both heartbreaking and intoxicating. But in the end… the true king rose, and he won her heart and mine too.
May 11, 2025
If you haven't read Just Kickin' It and Friendsgiving with the Belafontes you should start there to get the full background of Desni and Damian in this book. After everything that transpired between these two on those books and even in this one, they both needed to get some healing and it was a little bit of an emotional roller coaster along the way.
I liked how Ms. Brooks wrote the book where the each were able to get their individual healing so that when they did come back together they would be in a better space to have a more stabilized friendship and relationship. With Damian's dad being nonexistent in his life I thought it was nice how Bo was not only his trainer but also seemed to be like a father figure in his life so I appreciated the moments that had in the book too and in a way Bo is the catalyst that brought Damian and Desni back together.
I liked the symbolism of the rings being the title because Damian was a boxer so it symbolized his fight in the boxing ring and the way it ended their relationship came full circle like a ring. I thought this was a good end to their story and while boxing was a part of the book the focal point was their relationship which I understood. Overall I thought this was a good read.
I liked how Ms. Brooks wrote the book where the each were able to get their individual healing so that when they did come back together they would be in a better space to have a more stabilized friendship and relationship. With Damian's dad being nonexistent in his life I thought it was nice how Bo was not only his trainer but also seemed to be like a father figure in his life so I appreciated the moments that had in the book too and in a way Bo is the catalyst that brought Damian and Desni back together.
I liked the symbolism of the rings being the title because Damian was a boxer so it symbolized his fight in the boxing ring and the way it ended their relationship came full circle like a ring. I thought this was a good end to their story and while boxing was a part of the book the focal point was their relationship which I understood. Overall I thought this was a good read.
May 13, 2025
Thank you to the author Danielle Brooks for the free e-arc in exchange for my honest review.
4/5 ⭐️
— We finally get Damian & Desni’s love story after falling in love with them in the Valentine’s Day Novella “Just Kickin’ It. They had me stressed and my emotions through the roof. This love story gave it all — drama, mess, toxicity, and pure black love — with a true definition of homie-lover-friend.
— Dame & Des grew up together and harbored feelings for one another since high school. Lines get crossed and there is no turning back. Not even when they “tried”. — we get attempts to move on with others, unexpected but expected situations, and bad timing — but a fight in the ring changes everything.
— If you can’t tell, I loved this book and will recommend. The other I read this love story in as follows:
🤎 Just Kickin’ It (the prequel)
🤎 Friendsgiving with the Belafontes
🤎 Rings
—
Pub Date: 5/13/25
4/5 ⭐️
— We finally get Damian & Desni’s love story after falling in love with them in the Valentine’s Day Novella “Just Kickin’ It. They had me stressed and my emotions through the roof. This love story gave it all — drama, mess, toxicity, and pure black love — with a true definition of homie-lover-friend.
— Dame & Des grew up together and harbored feelings for one another since high school. Lines get crossed and there is no turning back. Not even when they “tried”. — we get attempts to move on with others, unexpected but expected situations, and bad timing — but a fight in the ring changes everything.
— If you can’t tell, I loved this book and will recommend. The other I read this love story in as follows:
🤎 Just Kickin’ It (the prequel)
🤎 Friendsgiving with the Belafontes
🤎 Rings
—
Pub Date: 5/13/25
May 20, 2025
Damien and Desni have been best friends forever, but one fateful night changes everything, leaving them to navigate their feelings—both in and out of the ring.
When I first met Damien and Desni in Just Kickin' It and then saw them again in Friendsgiving with The Belatontes, I was really hoping we'd get to see how their story ends. Thankfully, we got Rings! I loved how the story explored Damien's background and showed his growth into the emotionally mature guy that Des really needed.
If you enjoy a fun love triangle set against a sports backdrop, this book is definitely for you!
When I first met Damien and Desni in Just Kickin' It and then saw them again in Friendsgiving with The Belatontes, I was really hoping we'd get to see how their story ends. Thankfully, we got Rings! I loved how the story explored Damien's background and showed his growth into the emotionally mature guy that Des really needed.
If you enjoy a fun love triangle set against a sports backdrop, this book is definitely for you!
May 13, 2025
✨ARC Review ✨
Finally! The story we’ve all been waiting for…Desni and Damion. I’m not going to lie, I wanted to pop both Damian and Desni upside the head for how they were handling, or not handling in this case, their feelings and relationship. I understand that the situation was complicated, but usually because they both made choices that overcomplicated things even more. Your girl was frustrated and cussing these two out because I just wanted them to get it together and get together. I usually enjoy a good love triangle, but this one had me talking to the characters like they really could hear me. I have been invested in these two since Just Kickin’ It and I have just wanted to see them get it together, and it was definitely worth the wait! I love the work they both put in to heal making their second chance that much sweeter. This was such an emotional rollercoaster and I enjoyed every minute of the ride.
Finally! The story we’ve all been waiting for…Desni and Damion. I’m not going to lie, I wanted to pop both Damian and Desni upside the head for how they were handling, or not handling in this case, their feelings and relationship. I understand that the situation was complicated, but usually because they both made choices that overcomplicated things even more. Your girl was frustrated and cussing these two out because I just wanted them to get it together and get together. I usually enjoy a good love triangle, but this one had me talking to the characters like they really could hear me. I have been invested in these two since Just Kickin’ It and I have just wanted to see them get it together, and it was definitely worth the wait! I love the work they both put in to heal making their second chance that much sweeter. This was such an emotional rollercoaster and I enjoyed every minute of the ride.
May 2, 2025
Desni & Damian’s journey is the epitome of “full circle”.
These two started as childhood friends, blurred the lines and then life happened… a lot… over the years and previous books in the Belafonte series. That messy Friendsgiving fiasco still lives rent free in my mind 🫣
While they made some frustrating decisions throughout their story, it was extremely relatable. Moments of uncertainty, vulnerability, raw emotion, reality checks, grief of relationships, learning themselves and growth. The amount of growth each of them accomplished was *chefs kiss*
When I saw Danielle Brook’s list of tropes for this including:
• friends-to-lovers
• love triangle
• second chance
…I thought there was no way, but she wrote this book beautifully and hit all of them.
One stone was left unturned, but in an intentional way that made the story even more relatable.
I was so excited to receive an ARC of their story and it didn’t disappoint!
These two started as childhood friends, blurred the lines and then life happened… a lot… over the years and previous books in the Belafonte series. That messy Friendsgiving fiasco still lives rent free in my mind 🫣
While they made some frustrating decisions throughout their story, it was extremely relatable. Moments of uncertainty, vulnerability, raw emotion, reality checks, grief of relationships, learning themselves and growth. The amount of growth each of them accomplished was *chefs kiss*
When I saw Danielle Brook’s list of tropes for this including:
• friends-to-lovers
• love triangle
• second chance
…I thought there was no way, but she wrote this book beautifully and hit all of them.
One stone was left unturned, but in an intentional way that made the story even more relatable.
I was so excited to receive an ARC of their story and it didn’t disappoint!
May 10, 2025
My honest arc review
Desni and Damian... this love triangle had me screaming. I fought with every page, every side-eye, every “we need to talk” that never happened. The miscommunication? A whole villain in this story. Like y’all could’ve saved yourselves (and us) a LOT of emotional damage if you just sat down and talked about your feelings.
And yet... I loved every toxic, messy, butterfly-inducing second of it.
These two have been circling each other since Just Kickin’ It and had me shook in Friendsgiving, so I was READY for their full story. What I didn’t expect was to be dragged through a ring of fire (pun intended) for the first 50% of the book. I wanted to shake them. I wanted to hug them. I wanted to fight for them. It was giving homie-lover-friends-who-don’t-know-how-to-communicate, and somehow I couldn’t look away.
Joaquim? I couldn’t even hate him. I was judging him and Desni hard, but honestly? They all made choices. Miss Ma’am picked the fish that was already halfway grilled and served on someone else’s plate. Like, girl…
Kennedy asking Damian to give a speech at Desni’s party had me cackling. That level of boldness? Criminal. I couldn’t do it to my worst enemy, and this woman did it without blinking.
This book was a sports romance, yes but it was a heavyweight match of feelings, egos, missed chances, and second chances. Damian’s growth? Beautiful. Desni's heartbreak? Real. That ending? Worth it.
Thank you, Danielle Brooks, for giving us the beauty and the boxer. I’m exhausted, but satisfied. 🥊♥️
Desni and Damian... this love triangle had me screaming. I fought with every page, every side-eye, every “we need to talk” that never happened. The miscommunication? A whole villain in this story. Like y’all could’ve saved yourselves (and us) a LOT of emotional damage if you just sat down and talked about your feelings.
And yet... I loved every toxic, messy, butterfly-inducing second of it.
These two have been circling each other since Just Kickin’ It and had me shook in Friendsgiving, so I was READY for their full story. What I didn’t expect was to be dragged through a ring of fire (pun intended) for the first 50% of the book. I wanted to shake them. I wanted to hug them. I wanted to fight for them. It was giving homie-lover-friends-who-don’t-know-how-to-communicate, and somehow I couldn’t look away.
Joaquim? I couldn’t even hate him. I was judging him and Desni hard, but honestly? They all made choices. Miss Ma’am picked the fish that was already halfway grilled and served on someone else’s plate. Like, girl…
Kennedy asking Damian to give a speech at Desni’s party had me cackling. That level of boldness? Criminal. I couldn’t do it to my worst enemy, and this woman did it without blinking.
This book was a sports romance, yes but it was a heavyweight match of feelings, egos, missed chances, and second chances. Damian’s growth? Beautiful. Desni's heartbreak? Real. That ending? Worth it.
Thank you, Danielle Brooks, for giving us the beauty and the boxer. I’m exhausted, but satisfied. 🥊♥️
May 6, 2025
A.R.C. Review
This is my first ARC book. Shout out to Danielle Brooks for selecting me. I have not read the previous books in the series. Therefore, I can confirm that this book is great as a stand alone. I will be circling back to the others because I enjoyed this one so much. Let's talk about it.
I really wish more men read romance books. To see the process of Damian healing, was nourishing to my soul and really should not just be for women to read. What Danielle does really well is show the work of growing together as a couple by cultivating intimacy and trust.
I am not a fan of love triangles which frustrated me at the beginning. But I continued reading because the character development was compelling.
It is refreshing to read a story of a generation that is not dealing with horrific trauma. They have 'new', rich people problems hahaha. When Joaquim said "Im giving you access to my money" I said Lord Jesus sign me up for those kind of problems.
*Spoiler Alert*
I went through pregnancy alone and it was the worst. Seeing them do it together gave me joy. I was mad at Joaquim for still wanting Desni even though he knew she didn't love him. Sir, respect yourself. The way Desni kept saying "I don't know how he knew" I was like really! I love Mama Damian getting her groove back.
Needless to say, lots of emotions came up. I saw myself in both Damian and Desni. It had me reflecting about what I need to do next. Highly recommend.
This is my first ARC book. Shout out to Danielle Brooks for selecting me. I have not read the previous books in the series. Therefore, I can confirm that this book is great as a stand alone. I will be circling back to the others because I enjoyed this one so much. Let's talk about it.
I really wish more men read romance books. To see the process of Damian healing, was nourishing to my soul and really should not just be for women to read. What Danielle does really well is show the work of growing together as a couple by cultivating intimacy and trust.
I am not a fan of love triangles which frustrated me at the beginning. But I continued reading because the character development was compelling.
It is refreshing to read a story of a generation that is not dealing with horrific trauma. They have 'new', rich people problems hahaha. When Joaquim said "Im giving you access to my money" I said Lord Jesus sign me up for those kind of problems.
*Spoiler Alert*
I went through pregnancy alone and it was the worst. Seeing them do it together gave me joy. I was mad at Joaquim for still wanting Desni even though he knew she didn't love him. Sir, respect yourself. The way Desni kept saying "I don't know how he knew" I was like really! I love Mama Damian getting her groove back.
Needless to say, lots of emotions came up. I saw myself in both Damian and Desni. It had me reflecting about what I need to do next. Highly recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2025
Rings
Danielle Brooks
Desni and Damian have been through so much. I’ve loved the evolution of their relationship. The growth is exponential.
Now, let’s get into the meat and potatoes. The entire miscommunication of their feelings gave me the blues. The entire first act, I mentally pleaded with them to get it together. Anyone from a mile away, could see that they were meant to be. I don’t even have to mention how territorial they both became when the other brought a different mate. Their feelings were palpable.
While I do have a soft spot for Desni & Damian, I won’t lie that I was rooting for Joaquim. He truly did love Desni. He maintained his integrity throughout the entire ordeal. I loved that he didn’t become a villain when that would be easy.
This novel approached quite a few tough topics and it all felt so real.
When all their distractions were removed truth and accountability were beckoning for a breakthrough.
I high recommend reading Just Kickin it and Friendsgiving with the Belafontes. These books will enhance your experience of their story. You’ll get a better understanding of who the two main characters are and what they mean to each other.
#readandtellwithshantel #Rings #justkickin’it #friendsgivingwiththebelafontes #justiceforjoaquim
Danielle Brooks
Desni and Damian have been through so much. I’ve loved the evolution of their relationship. The growth is exponential.
Now, let’s get into the meat and potatoes. The entire miscommunication of their feelings gave me the blues. The entire first act, I mentally pleaded with them to get it together. Anyone from a mile away, could see that they were meant to be. I don’t even have to mention how territorial they both became when the other brought a different mate. Their feelings were palpable.
While I do have a soft spot for Desni & Damian, I won’t lie that I was rooting for Joaquim. He truly did love Desni. He maintained his integrity throughout the entire ordeal. I loved that he didn’t become a villain when that would be easy.
This novel approached quite a few tough topics and it all felt so real.
When all their distractions were removed truth and accountability were beckoning for a breakthrough.
I high recommend reading Just Kickin it and Friendsgiving with the Belafontes. These books will enhance your experience of their story. You’ll get a better understanding of who the two main characters are and what they mean to each other.
#readandtellwithshantel #Rings #justkickin’it #friendsgivingwiththebelafontes #justiceforjoaquim
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 11, 2025
A page turner.
My first story by this author and I have to tell you it captured me from page 1. The story unfolded like a movie and I enjoyed every minute of it.
This story truly has something for everyone .. friends become blurred lines becomes too late becomes estranged becomes healing becomes lovers becomes family.
It gave me all the feels from … awww, to whyyyyy to tears … to how beautiful, to okayyyy now to finally.
Damien and Desni truly put their hearts on the line, their hearts in the hands of life and then each other. Damien almost lost the love of his life playing around and when she moved on that’s when he wanted her (typical man). However, Desni tried her best to honor her yes to another man but one night of goodbye saved her from making the biggest mistake of her life in my opinion. However, it didn’t set life upright but it did turn her in the direction she was meant to travel .. and who knew a love for yoga would bring her back to her center and Damien’s stubbornness would force him there as well. It was there they found their peace, their strength and their second chance….
Sometimes the second chance is better than the first.
My first story by this author and I have to tell you it captured me from page 1. The story unfolded like a movie and I enjoyed every minute of it.
This story truly has something for everyone .. friends become blurred lines becomes too late becomes estranged becomes healing becomes lovers becomes family.
It gave me all the feels from … awww, to whyyyyy to tears … to how beautiful, to okayyyy now to finally.
Damien and Desni truly put their hearts on the line, their hearts in the hands of life and then each other. Damien almost lost the love of his life playing around and when she moved on that’s when he wanted her (typical man). However, Desni tried her best to honor her yes to another man but one night of goodbye saved her from making the biggest mistake of her life in my opinion. However, it didn’t set life upright but it did turn her in the direction she was meant to travel .. and who knew a love for yoga would bring her back to her center and Damien’s stubbornness would force him there as well. It was there they found their peace, their strength and their second chance….
Sometimes the second chance is better than the first.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2025
We first got a glimpse of Desni & Damian in Just Kickin’ It: A Valentine’s Day Novelette, then in the Belafonte & Friends Series (Rings is the 3rd Book - Release Date May 13, 2025) and it left us with a major cliff hanger!
Y’all the way I have been waiting for this book! And I’m in Danielle’s inbox every time she posts about it! When I received this ARC I literally squealed!!! I started reading immediately and it took me through so many emotions I had to sit with it before doing my review!
I absolutely LOVED Rings!!!! Absolutely Loved It! I fell more in love with Desni and Damian’s friendship! I was rooting for them in the other books (if you understood how they have taken up space in my mind), but then they gave me ANXIETY! The charity boxing match literally had me back in Danielle’s inbox because I had to talk through this with someone!
We might have needed an ARC Reader Support Group because I had so many feelings! I’m so glad that this was so worth the wait! I can’t wait to reread this series straight through! I would love some audiobooks of this series 🤞🏽🙏🏽
Y’all the way I have been waiting for this book! And I’m in Danielle’s inbox every time she posts about it! When I received this ARC I literally squealed!!! I started reading immediately and it took me through so many emotions I had to sit with it before doing my review!
I absolutely LOVED Rings!!!! Absolutely Loved It! I fell more in love with Desni and Damian’s friendship! I was rooting for them in the other books (if you understood how they have taken up space in my mind), but then they gave me ANXIETY! The charity boxing match literally had me back in Danielle’s inbox because I had to talk through this with someone!
We might have needed an ARC Reader Support Group because I had so many feelings! I’m so glad that this was so worth the wait! I can’t wait to reread this series straight through! I would love some audiobooks of this series 🤞🏽🙏🏽
April 30, 2025
Desni & Damien’s Journey Wrecked Me (In the Best Way)
Welp, Danielle Brooks did it again. Rings had me in a chokehold from start to finish. I felt like a fly on the wall, watching Desni and Damien’s relationship unfold in real time. The emotional depth? Devastating. The dialogue? So real I was yelling at my Kindle like they were my actual friends. The healing, the hurt, the hard truths, this story doesn’t shy away from the reality that not every love story is easy, or even guaranteed a HEA.
I needed this deeper dive into their lives. The trials they went through? WHEW. But the way they fought through everything, for each other and themselves—it was beautiful. The pacing was just right, and that sports romance element added extra flavor without taking away from the emotional core. And yes, we got another Friendsgiving moment! Danielle’s writing is always chef’s kiss, and this book is no exception.
Spice 🌶🌶🌶
Welp, Danielle Brooks did it again. Rings had me in a chokehold from start to finish. I felt like a fly on the wall, watching Desni and Damien’s relationship unfold in real time. The emotional depth? Devastating. The dialogue? So real I was yelling at my Kindle like they were my actual friends. The healing, the hurt, the hard truths, this story doesn’t shy away from the reality that not every love story is easy, or even guaranteed a HEA.
I needed this deeper dive into their lives. The trials they went through? WHEW. But the way they fought through everything, for each other and themselves—it was beautiful. The pacing was just right, and that sports romance element added extra flavor without taking away from the emotional core. And yes, we got another Friendsgiving moment! Danielle’s writing is always chef’s kiss, and this book is no exception.
Spice 🌶🌶🌶
May 13, 2025
Desni & Damian...man their story put me through it. I would argue that this is Danielle Brooks most gut-wrenching and emotionally intense book. The MAJOR theme is healing. Desni is healing from the consequences of her actions, and Damian is healing from a life filled with rejection. If they didn't have each other, baby I promise you I would be jumping through my kindle to give each of them the biggest hug ever. Danielle Brooks did an awesome job conveying the raw emotions that each character was feeling as well as the complexities of each of their relationships with others. She veryyy adequately demonstrated the ways that Dame complimented Desi's faults and vice versa. It was so beautiful to see the affirmation of raw emotion between the two of them, especially with the masculine archetype that Dame presented. Because of the nature of their relationship, I really appreciate she allowed them to achieve certainty with each other after years of exploration. I was so sad when the story was over, but I was left feeling very fulfilled. 10s to Danielle Brooks across the board (and thank you so much for allowing me to be an ARC reader. I appreciate it more than you know!).
May 13, 2025
Whewww, where do I even begin? Desni and Damien’s journey from lovers to friends (and back again!) had me in a chokehold. It starts off a little rocky—Desni is engaged to Joaquim and everything seems picture perfect… but unresolved tension between her and Damien comes to a head during their annual Friendsgiving gathering.
Without spoiling too much, let’s just say—one steamy night, an accidental pregnancy, and a whole lot of emotional fallout later—Desni walks away from her engagement to do some soul-searching, and Damien heads to the city to chase his boxing dreams.
Life throws them curveballs, and when Damien’s coach urges him to return home, fate steps in. Both Desni and Damien reconnect, this time healed, self-aware, and ready to confront their pasts. Through all the heartbreak, growth, and second chances, they realize that some love stories are worth the mess. Because sometimes, you’re just better together.
Without spoiling too much, let’s just say—one steamy night, an accidental pregnancy, and a whole lot of emotional fallout later—Desni walks away from her engagement to do some soul-searching, and Damien heads to the city to chase his boxing dreams.
Life throws them curveballs, and when Damien’s coach urges him to return home, fate steps in. Both Desni and Damien reconnect, this time healed, self-aware, and ready to confront their pasts. Through all the heartbreak, growth, and second chances, they realize that some love stories are worth the mess. Because sometimes, you’re just better together.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 13, 2025
Danielle Brooks does it again!!! I have always been rooting for Desni and Damian since I read Friendsgiving. I knew that they were meant to be and couldn’t wait until I read about there happy ending. In Rings you get a beautiful love story about two friends whose love for each other is undeniable but because of certain circumstances it just can’t work. Desni has her own situation she’s dealing with while in the meantime Damian is mad at himself for letting her get away. Everyone in the circle can see that they need to be together and stop playing games but Desni is trying to do the right thing knowing that it’s not what’s best for her. Damian is what’s best for her!!! Will these two reconnect and finally have the love they both know they want and deserve or will their relationship have to go through too many hurdles to make it work?
Tropes
Friends to lovers
Daddy issues
Friendship group
Tropes
Friends to lovers
Daddy issues
Friendship group
April 30, 2025
🗣️This booooook had me in my feelings! The rollercoaster of emotions was worth every dip and flip. I binge read the previous 2 books in this serious prior to reading this Advance Readers copy and I was hooked on Damian & Desni’s love story.
The trauma these two face together (and apart) had me yelling at my kindle, ready to crawl into it and tell them to get it together 😂 Damien’s character growth was so beautiful to me. I felt like I was going on his healing journey with him.
I loved the sprinkle of the other characters stories throughout the book, giving us a little update on what’s going on with them.
I absolutely recommend this book if you are looking for a second chance, sports romance that will renew your belief in soulmates. A pure love connection with loads of drama, and character growth.
The trauma these two face together (and apart) had me yelling at my kindle, ready to crawl into it and tell them to get it together 😂 Damien’s character growth was so beautiful to me. I felt like I was going on his healing journey with him.
I loved the sprinkle of the other characters stories throughout the book, giving us a little update on what’s going on with them.
I absolutely recommend this book if you are looking for a second chance, sports romance that will renew your belief in soulmates. A pure love connection with loads of drama, and character growth.
April 30, 2025
When I say I was hype to get early access to Rings, I mean HYPE. After Just Kickin’ It, I was fully locked in on Desni and Damian’s story. And after reading Friendsgiving 🤯 Whew how were these homie lover friends ever going to bounce back? I knew this book was gonna be chaotic, and I was here for it!
But BABY, that love triangle👀 Had me all the way shook. The boxing match between Joaquim and Damian? Wild. The trash talk had me gasping, and the punches hit just as hard as the emotions.
What really got me, though, was the heart. This story is rooted in found family and healing. Watching these characters grow both together and on their own was genuinely beautiful. Messy and so real.
If you love childhood friends-to-lovers, love triangles, and second chances, Rings needs to be on your TBR. Drops May 13, 2025!
May 6, 2025
********************ARC Review********************
Tropes: Friends to lovers , love triangle, sports romance, second chances, fated mates
Star rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
General thoughts : everything I needed and more ! If you’re not interested in an emotional draining story then this book ain’t for you , but I can confirm you will be missing out!
Book overview :
Finally Desni and Damian story is here.
Best friends that blurred the lines of friendship by giving into their emotions and feelings for each other. Whilst entertaining individual situationships and relationships.
The mess is messy, It’s spicy , it’s emotionally triggering, it’s swoon worthy, it’s everything you needed in a story but didn’t know you wanted .
I love how realistic the story is and that it has a connection to the writer.
Here is your next 5 star read , coming out next Tuesday 13 May!
Tropes: Friends to lovers , love triangle, sports romance, second chances, fated mates
Star rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
General thoughts : everything I needed and more ! If you’re not interested in an emotional draining story then this book ain’t for you , but I can confirm you will be missing out!
Book overview :
Finally Desni and Damian story is here.
Best friends that blurred the lines of friendship by giving into their emotions and feelings for each other. Whilst entertaining individual situationships and relationships.
The mess is messy, It’s spicy , it’s emotionally triggering, it’s swoon worthy, it’s everything you needed in a story but didn’t know you wanted .
I love how realistic the story is and that it has a connection to the writer.
Here is your next 5 star read , coming out next Tuesday 13 May!
May 15, 2025
Step Right Up for a Knockout Read!
Forget the bell – this book grabs you from the first page and throws you straight into the heart of the ring! I'm still catching my breath after the emotional rollercoaster ride that Damian and Desni took me on. Talk about a one-two punch of frustration and undeniable connection! Miscommunication? Check. Bad timing? Absolutely. Enough drama to leave you reeling? You bet. But through it all, the unwavering force of love kept me glued to the pages, even when I wanted to throw in the towel (in the best way possible!).
Trust me, you feel every jab, every cross, every moment of breathless anticipation. If you haven't yet entered the world of the Belafonte & Friends series, consider this your ringside invitation. The crowd is roaring, and this book proves why. Don't just stand on the sidelines – dive in! You won't regret it.
Forget the bell – this book grabs you from the first page and throws you straight into the heart of the ring! I'm still catching my breath after the emotional rollercoaster ride that Damian and Desni took me on. Talk about a one-two punch of frustration and undeniable connection! Miscommunication? Check. Bad timing? Absolutely. Enough drama to leave you reeling? You bet. But through it all, the unwavering force of love kept me glued to the pages, even when I wanted to throw in the towel (in the best way possible!).
Trust me, you feel every jab, every cross, every moment of breathless anticipation. If you haven't yet entered the world of the Belafonte & Friends series, consider this your ringside invitation. The crowd is roaring, and this book proves why. Don't just stand on the sidelines – dive in! You won't regret it.
June 1, 2025
"Rings" was a knockout!!! PUN ALL THE WAY INTENDED!!! The title was perfect due to everything coming full circle with this friends to lovers sports romance. I'll always be a friends to lovers girlie! These two will forever hold a special place in my heart cause baby I was rooting for them from beginning to end The emotional roller coaster with Damian and Desni was what I needed to get out of my reading slump. Their understanding. communication, and growth gave depth to this story. Im so happy they got their second chance because they were meant for each other.
I can't say this enough ... PLEASE MAKE DANIELLE BROOKS YOUR AUTO BUY AUTHOR NOW! She's definitely mine and her writing never disappoints!
I can't say this enough ... PLEASE MAKE DANIELLE BROOKS YOUR AUTO BUY AUTHOR NOW! She's definitely mine and her writing never disappoints!
May 13, 2025
Can we all firstly just stop and appreciate this beautiful cover?😍
This is my first time Reading Danielle Brooks and I am grateful for the ARC and opportunity to share my thoughts.
Now, this is book 3 in the Belafonte & Friends series and although I could pretty much get into the story without having read the previous books I think reading the previous books would have helped better understand and appreciate the chemistry between Damian and Desni.
This is a love triangle so please, if its not your thing don't read this obviously.
Be prepared for spice, quite a bit of drama, mouth dropping moments and sensitive topics.
I also really appreciated the author's note.
This is my first time Reading Danielle Brooks and I am grateful for the ARC and opportunity to share my thoughts.
Now, this is book 3 in the Belafonte & Friends series and although I could pretty much get into the story without having read the previous books I think reading the previous books would have helped better understand and appreciate the chemistry between Damian and Desni.
This is a love triangle so please, if its not your thing don't read this obviously.
Be prepared for spice, quite a bit of drama, mouth dropping moments and sensitive topics.
I also really appreciated the author's note.
June 2, 2025
Friends to lovers and second chance romances always stress me out because-why couldn't y'all just get it right the first time?! Lol. But Danielle Brooks? She made me a believer in trusting the process.
This story is layered with healing, heartbreak, and some really hard decisions. We needed every uncertain moment to appreciate the beauty of the ending. Damian and Desni will have you riding an emotional, frustrating, but deeply heartfelt rollercoaster-and it's worth every drop. They prove that when love is real, no distance or delay can stop it from circling back.
I felt this one. And I loved the friend/family group dynamic too—10/10!
This story is layered with healing, heartbreak, and some really hard decisions. We needed every uncertain moment to appreciate the beauty of the ending. Damian and Desni will have you riding an emotional, frustrating, but deeply heartfelt rollercoaster-and it's worth every drop. They prove that when love is real, no distance or delay can stop it from circling back.
I felt this one. And I loved the friend/family group dynamic too—10/10!
June 9, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!
Okay, I loved this book. I’ve never been a fan of the miscommunication trope, so at times I felt like ripping my hair out but the miscommunication made sense. Desni and Damian was both likable characters. I found Joaquim to be a good man but I was surprised about how hard he was going for Desni because it was clear he was fighting for someone who’s heart was with someone else.
All in all, though, the book was a page turner! I loved the boxing element in there also and the boxing matches and press conferences were written so well, I could envision everything so clearly.
Bo was so funny. I was envisioning Bo as Method Man 😂😍. We need Bo and Mama Knight’s story 😭
Okay, I loved this book. I’ve never been a fan of the miscommunication trope, so at times I felt like ripping my hair out but the miscommunication made sense. Desni and Damian was both likable characters. I found Joaquim to be a good man but I was surprised about how hard he was going for Desni because it was clear he was fighting for someone who’s heart was with someone else.
All in all, though, the book was a page turner! I loved the boxing element in there also and the boxing matches and press conferences were written so well, I could envision everything so clearly.
Bo was so funny. I was envisioning Bo as Method Man 😂😍. We need Bo and Mama Knight’s story 😭
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 16, 2026
ThankYou!
I guess I get it…
After reading the author’s note, I see why we had to wait for the HEA. Even though I didn’t want them entertaining anyone else while they were doing their inner work, I get it.
Still I wanted to pop them both cause come on!!! Say what you mean! Mean what you say! Bo had to be one of my favorite father figures in the bookverse on the strength of the words he spoke into Dame’s life. Des girl, I can understand some of the behaviors then again I want to pop you.
😂🤣😂🤣 how many times did you have to hear that man love you!? D. B. collect is full of good stories so let me find one ❤️as a hopefull romantic
I guess I get it…
After reading the author’s note, I see why we had to wait for the HEA. Even though I didn’t want them entertaining anyone else while they were doing their inner work, I get it.
Still I wanted to pop them both cause come on!!! Say what you mean! Mean what you say! Bo had to be one of my favorite father figures in the bookverse on the strength of the words he spoke into Dame’s life. Des girl, I can understand some of the behaviors then again I want to pop you.
😂🤣😂🤣 how many times did you have to hear that man love you!? D. B. collect is full of good stories so let me find one ❤️as a hopefull romantic
May 5, 2025
ARC REVIEW
Desni and Damian triggered me at every single turn of the page! However, I grew to like them. Trying to fight the inevitable never truly works. The Universe will always make a way to align and help you spin a block while healing “when the right components align.” Settling and forcing yourself to believe things will work, will never work. Again, through healing, you can develop a new sense of peace and understanding for what had to happen to circle back.
“One thing that keeps us from truly healing our inner wounds is the lack of trust and the inability to feel safe emotionally.”
Desni and Damian triggered me at every single turn of the page! However, I grew to like them. Trying to fight the inevitable never truly works. The Universe will always make a way to align and help you spin a block while healing “when the right components align.” Settling and forcing yourself to believe things will work, will never work. Again, through healing, you can develop a new sense of peace and understanding for what had to happen to circle back.
“One thing that keeps us from truly healing our inner wounds is the lack of trust and the inability to feel safe emotionally.”
May 19, 2025
ARC Review. I was literally anticipating Des and Dame’s love story. After getting the back story, this was a big rollercoaster. From friends to lovers, a love triangle to childhood trauma and healing. This was such a good read with some really good juicy drama and the spice was SPICYYYYY! Danielle writes these men as men who will worship a woman’s body and that’s exactly what Dame did. The love that blossomed after all these years between Des and Dame was truly beautiful to read. They both deserved love and each other.
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