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In the Lonely Hour
*Previously published in 2021. This 2nd edition has an extended last chapter and new epilogue.*
Based on family tradition, Layla and Carlos married right after high school. They both wanted to live a life of travel, luxury, and independence. Neither wanted children, but when Layla found out she was pregnant, her desires changed. Unfortunately, Carlos’s plans didn’t, and the birth of their daughter, Dior, put a major strain on their marriage.
When Dior decides she wants to make a friend when she starts high school, Layla enlists the help of Andres Martin—a well-known advocate and aide for children and teenagers struggling with Autism on any part of the spectrum. Technically separated, Carlos uses this as an opportunity to permanently remove himself from Layla and Dior’s lives. However, he doesn’t plan on the jealousy he feels watching his family be helped and led by another man.
Andres makes it his mission to not only help provide structure and support for Dior, but he also reminds Layla that she’s not just a mother… she’s a woman too. A woman whose need for love, affection, validation, and security has been unmet. As Layla finally accepts divorce as their only option, Carlos decides he’s ready to fight for her. Will she give her husband a second chance or accept the love Andres provided during her loneliest hour?
Based on family tradition, Layla and Carlos married right after high school. They both wanted to live a life of travel, luxury, and independence. Neither wanted children, but when Layla found out she was pregnant, her desires changed. Unfortunately, Carlos’s plans didn’t, and the birth of their daughter, Dior, put a major strain on their marriage.
When Dior decides she wants to make a friend when she starts high school, Layla enlists the help of Andres Martin—a well-known advocate and aide for children and teenagers struggling with Autism on any part of the spectrum. Technically separated, Carlos uses this as an opportunity to permanently remove himself from Layla and Dior’s lives. However, he doesn’t plan on the jealousy he feels watching his family be helped and led by another man.
Andres makes it his mission to not only help provide structure and support for Dior, but he also reminds Layla that she’s not just a mother… she’s a woman too. A woman whose need for love, affection, validation, and security has been unmet. As Layla finally accepts divorce as their only option, Carlos decides he’s ready to fight for her. Will she give her husband a second chance or accept the love Andres provided during her loneliest hour?
168 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2025
196 people are currently reading
68 people want to read
About the author
B. Love
260 books1,425 followersVoted AAMBC's 2018 Romance author of the year, Master storyteller B. Love is the unparalleled self-love teacher. As the powerhouse for modern-day womanhood, she pens contagious content that encourages readers to internalize admiration and intimacy. She allows her most powerful vessel to guide her stories, wholly.
Since age 12, Love has been spreading self-awareness, care, and appreciation. For over six years, Love has authored over 40 publications centered around heart-piercing, reverence-worthy romance. Her novels not only entertain but challenge the audience to explore love. With a keen eye for passion, desire and dynamism she includes heuristic methods in her beautifully curated accounts of life.
B. Love’s entire persona is spearheaded by her incredible infatuation with the power of love. Contained within each novel, is an edification created for the glorification of self. Her pen bleeds for the souls who need just an inkling of empowerment. Each story is written with the intent to enlighten, engross and enkindle the passion in whoever picks up her book.
Since age 12, Love has been spreading self-awareness, care, and appreciation. For over six years, Love has authored over 40 publications centered around heart-piercing, reverence-worthy romance. Her novels not only entertain but challenge the audience to explore love. With a keen eye for passion, desire and dynamism she includes heuristic methods in her beautifully curated accounts of life.
B. Love’s entire persona is spearheaded by her incredible infatuation with the power of love. Contained within each novel, is an edification created for the glorification of self. Her pen bleeds for the souls who need just an inkling of empowerment. Each story is written with the intent to enlighten, engross and enkindle the passion in whoever picks up her book.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
July 18, 2025
Babyyyy, this was such a good short read!
My heart went out to Layla navigating motherhood, especially with an autistic child, isn’t easy, and you could feel the weight she carried.
Carlos was such a prick I wanted to fight him throughout the entire book.
Andres really surprised me. Had me questioning him at first, but he came through and redeemed himself in the best way.
And Dior… she was such a sweetheart. I loved watching her grow and thrive with the right support.
Short, emotional, and so worth the read.
My heart went out to Layla navigating motherhood, especially with an autistic child, isn’t easy, and you could feel the weight she carried.
Carlos was such a prick I wanted to fight him throughout the entire book.
Andres really surprised me. Had me questioning him at first, but he came through and redeemed himself in the best way.
And Dior… she was such a sweetheart. I loved watching her grow and thrive with the right support.
Short, emotional, and so worth the read.
December 18, 2025
This was a nice short read && I love a Step daddy trope !!! 😜
June 7, 2025
Happiness delayed
Married, single mom Layla struggled in silence while trying to make the best life possible for her daughter Dior, who lived with Asperger's Syndrome. As she prepared her daughter for entering high school, the challenges her husband presented made her personal life even more complicated. Thankfully, a Community Center with a good support group, was able to provide the resources necessary to assist both Layla and her daughter Dior.
Little did Layla know that Andres, the owner of the husky who ate her ice cream at the park, would be the person who brought positive change to both she and her daughter's lives.
As a parent of a child in the Autism spectrum, I could relate to a lot of the concerns Layla had regarding her daughter's wellbeing. I can also appreciate the value of having a supportive partner who has your child's well-being as a priority as much as you. In this book, the author provided the full plethora of reasons why Layla made some of the decisions she did. Some you may not agree with, but maybe have a better understanding. It goes back to the old saying, never judge until you've walked a mile in someone else's shoes.
I love when a book can take me through all the emotions the characters feeling, and this story definitely takes you through it all. One minute you're in tears through suffering, then happy for the joy, to anger for the betrayal, then calmness for resolution. Regardless, in the 167 pages, there is a full, well-written story with depth, heart and thoughtfulness.
I thoroughly enjoyed and would highly recommend this book.
Married, single mom Layla struggled in silence while trying to make the best life possible for her daughter Dior, who lived with Asperger's Syndrome. As she prepared her daughter for entering high school, the challenges her husband presented made her personal life even more complicated. Thankfully, a Community Center with a good support group, was able to provide the resources necessary to assist both Layla and her daughter Dior.
Little did Layla know that Andres, the owner of the husky who ate her ice cream at the park, would be the person who brought positive change to both she and her daughter's lives.
As a parent of a child in the Autism spectrum, I could relate to a lot of the concerns Layla had regarding her daughter's wellbeing. I can also appreciate the value of having a supportive partner who has your child's well-being as a priority as much as you. In this book, the author provided the full plethora of reasons why Layla made some of the decisions she did. Some you may not agree with, but maybe have a better understanding. It goes back to the old saying, never judge until you've walked a mile in someone else's shoes.
I love when a book can take me through all the emotions the characters feeling, and this story definitely takes you through it all. One minute you're in tears through suffering, then happy for the joy, to anger for the betrayal, then calmness for resolution. Regardless, in the 167 pages, there is a full, well-written story with depth, heart and thoughtfulness.
I thoroughly enjoyed and would highly recommend this book.
August 17, 2025
Packaged Deal
It’s no secret, I’ve been critical of many of B. Love’s projects (her demographic is for a much younger audience. I desire substance rather than superficial characters&!or storylines). Consequently, I’ve avoided reading material & or author’s affiliated with B. Love Projections. However, “In The Lonely Hour” was still in my to be read library & fortunately, this book was a great read too (4.50 ⭐️’s)‼️ More so, Andres’ character was incredibly thoughtful. Thereafter, his devotion to the AS foundation transcended profitability & recognition. Rather, patient’s stability first as well as the social services for both Layla & Dior demonstrated his integrity, commitment & love🥹🤩‼️Andres’ acclimated, accepted the challenge & packaged deal with no pretense of a life with L & D‼️Beautiful 😍‼️
It’s no secret, I’ve been critical of many of B. Love’s projects (her demographic is for a much younger audience. I desire substance rather than superficial characters&!or storylines). Consequently, I’ve avoided reading material & or author’s affiliated with B. Love Projections. However, “In The Lonely Hour” was still in my to be read library & fortunately, this book was a great read too (4.50 ⭐️’s)‼️ More so, Andres’ character was incredibly thoughtful. Thereafter, his devotion to the AS foundation transcended profitability & recognition. Rather, patient’s stability first as well as the social services for both Layla & Dior demonstrated his integrity, commitment & love🥹🤩‼️Andres’ acclimated, accepted the challenge & packaged deal with no pretense of a life with L & D‼️Beautiful 😍‼️
June 6, 2025
Beautiful read ❤️
This was truly a beautiful written story. I am a true fan of your work and I like that this was a little different from the “normal” reads. My heart broke for Layla because society and family always has this picture of what marriage should be and how someone should stay trapped in misery. Carlos was sad, egotistical and pathetic. The saying is true, “you’ll miss me when I’m gone” and I was glad he got to see what true love and happiness looked like on his family. Honey, Andres was everything and I’m glad that he was the person needed to bring life back into Dior and Layla. The ending was perfect and it made my heart smile. Very good job 🫶🏽
This was truly a beautiful written story. I am a true fan of your work and I like that this was a little different from the “normal” reads. My heart broke for Layla because society and family always has this picture of what marriage should be and how someone should stay trapped in misery. Carlos was sad, egotistical and pathetic. The saying is true, “you’ll miss me when I’m gone” and I was glad he got to see what true love and happiness looked like on his family. Honey, Andres was everything and I’m glad that he was the person needed to bring life back into Dior and Layla. The ending was perfect and it made my heart smile. Very good job 🫶🏽
December 29, 2025
that’s a good man
It’s understandable that you’d want to put all your time and energy caring for your child thats born different. Even though she never wanted kids, it changed when she got pregnant with Dior. Should she have made time for husband sure but it wasn’t like she was out in the streets. He should’ve said something instead of wanting to stay married and have girls on the side. His heart went in his stomach the moment he saw Andres and Layla out just having a good time. Andres stepped up and cared for both Dior and Layla
It’s understandable that you’d want to put all your time and energy caring for your child thats born different. Even though she never wanted kids, it changed when she got pregnant with Dior. Should she have made time for husband sure but it wasn’t like she was out in the streets. He should’ve said something instead of wanting to stay married and have girls on the side. His heart went in his stomach the moment he saw Andres and Layla out just having a good time. Andres stepped up and cared for both Dior and Layla
November 8, 2025
I loved the details related to the struggles of raising a differently abled child. The romance was spicy and sweet!
My only issue was that there were issues related to Andre's past that should have been addressed to enrich the story and his character development. The issues were mentioned by his family related to a woman, who had mental health issues.
Overall it was a good read and great ending!
My only issue was that there were issues related to Andre's past that should have been addressed to enrich the story and his character development. The issues were mentioned by his family related to a woman, who had mental health issues.
Overall it was a good read and great ending!
July 15, 2025
MrsTeeReads
The sacrifices a parent makes...this was a very good story. Layla's story was loud and clear. Being a caregiver is challenging, parenting is demanding, and will tax a relationship. Carlos checked out from day one and intentionally made Layla suffering. Andres was an answered prayer and I loved the development and healing of Layla and Dior.
The sacrifices a parent makes...this was a very good story. Layla's story was loud and clear. Being a caregiver is challenging, parenting is demanding, and will tax a relationship. Carlos checked out from day one and intentionally made Layla suffering. Andres was an answered prayer and I loved the development and healing of Layla and Dior.
August 18, 2025
Whew
This was a beautiful story. I know everything happens in its time but I wish one of them had checked with the other believing the lies the ex was spinning. Carlos was a piece of work and if I could change anything in the book, it would be an added chapter on his mindset and watching her glow up
This was a beautiful story. I know everything happens in its time but I wish one of them had checked with the other believing the lies the ex was spinning. Carlos was a piece of work and if I could change anything in the book, it would be an added chapter on his mindset and watching her glow up
September 10, 2025
even better the second time around
This was a great read even the second time around. I loved Dior and her relationship with Dre. I am so glad Layla was able to put her pride aside and let others in to help her raise her precious Dior which led her to finding love again. Job well done
This was a great read even the second time around. I loved Dior and her relationship with Dre. I am so glad Layla was able to put her pride aside and let others in to help her raise her precious Dior which led her to finding love again. Job well done
October 7, 2025
Layla and Andres
B Love did the topic of autism justice
Dior Layla daughter had A.S. and it caused a break in her marriage.
Their journey to peace and happiness is the core of this story and it is beautiful
I don’t want to say anymore about the story but encourage you to read it
You won’t be disappointed
B Love did the topic of autism justice
Dior Layla daughter had A.S. and it caused a break in her marriage.
Their journey to peace and happiness is the core of this story and it is beautiful
I don’t want to say anymore about the story but encourage you to read it
You won’t be disappointed
November 23, 2025
Absolutely loved this book
I couldn't put it down. The raw emotion and realness overtook me several times. I was talking out loud and rejoicing in the victories. I love that if focused on Autism and showed that people can still live an almost normal life when giving the right support. Kudos B. love!
I couldn't put it down. The raw emotion and realness overtook me several times. I was talking out loud and rejoicing in the victories. I love that if focused on Autism and showed that people can still live an almost normal life when giving the right support. Kudos B. love!
January 1, 2026
Love it!!
I love the book.
Andres, Layla, and Dori became beautiful families. I love how Andres took care of them. It was a small world on how Andres and Layla met. He was willing to take care of them.
Some men dont want you but will not let you move on. I was glad that Layla was able to get her and Dori away from her husband.
I love the book.
Andres, Layla, and Dori became beautiful families. I love how Andres took care of them. It was a small world on how Andres and Layla met. He was willing to take care of them.
Some men dont want you but will not let you move on. I was glad that Layla was able to get her and Dori away from her husband.
June 18, 2025
In the Lonely Hour
Yay...so in love
Andres and Layla were meant to be. And I'm so happy she upgraded Csrlos's trifling ass. Dude was too much.
Dior and Layla needed Andres and so happy she took Carolyn's advice and seemed help.
Beautiful story!
Yay...so in love
Andres and Layla were meant to be. And I'm so happy she upgraded Csrlos's trifling ass. Dude was too much.
Dior and Layla needed Andres and so happy she took Carolyn's advice and seemed help.
Beautiful story!
July 3, 2025
This was a very touching read. It took me by surprise and taught me a lot. I’m glad women like this have a story where they get their happy ending. I can’t imagine dealing with such impossible circumstances.
August 6, 2025
Still Loved It!
I adore the fresh interpretation of the narrative, and it resonates just as deeply as my initial encounter with the tale. The experience only intensified my joy and appreciation for Layla's daughter. ReneeG
I adore the fresh interpretation of the narrative, and it resonates just as deeply as my initial encounter with the tale. The experience only intensified my joy and appreciation for Layla's daughter. ReneeG
November 5, 2025
whew
This book had me all over the place.
This is probably one of the most realistic books I have ever read. Typically the story line is lost but this remained strong all the way to that end!
This book had me all over the place.
This is probably one of the most realistic books I have ever read. Typically the story line is lost but this remained strong all the way to that end!
January 4, 2026
Very well done
I loved this book. First off, for a B. love book, it was very well edited. The story had the perfect pace and I was on the literary edge of my seat the entire time. This had just the right amount of spice, humor, drama, and heart.
I loved this book. First off, for a B. love book, it was very well edited. The story had the perfect pace and I was on the literary edge of my seat the entire time. This had just the right amount of spice, humor, drama, and heart.
January 6, 2026
4.5⭐️ rounded up!
This definitely felt like a full length novel to me. The author hit on some serious topics and nothing felt too rushed.
I will say the new cover does not reflect the book to me. I was thinking we were going to get some type of fancy event in the city and they just didn’t happen. Definitely did not take away from the book!
This definitely felt like a full length novel to me. The author hit on some serious topics and nothing felt too rushed.
I will say the new cover does not reflect the book to me. I was thinking we were going to get some type of fancy event in the city and they just didn’t happen. Definitely did not take away from the book!
January 9, 2026
This was a fantastic listen. The narration was good, the story was perfect. It hit a little close to home for me because a lot of this I have experienced personally as an autism mom. I just loved this whole reading/listening experience.
June 9, 2025
cute
The cover is very deceptive, but it was a cute read, that that husband need his ass kicked hard. This is why u always have u some kinda income
The cover is very deceptive, but it was a cute read, that that husband need his ass kicked hard. This is why u always have u some kinda income
July 16, 2025
Awesome!!
B. Love could do this with her eyes closed. That's how good this one was.
I totally enjoyed the storyline, and MFC and MMC were a perfect match.
B. Love could do this with her eyes closed. That's how good this one was.
I totally enjoyed the storyline, and MFC and MMC were a perfect match.
November 2, 2025
Some men really be trifling! But my get got her a good upgrade and I love that for her! Lovely, short read!
November 4, 2025
★ ★ ★ ★
Definition of pressure applied and BDE! We love thatttt!
Definition of pressure applied and BDE! We love thatttt!
January 25, 2026
Cute Love Story
Very developed characters… Dre patience and understanding was Chef’s kiss! Good one day read by the fireplace. Love the Author ,
Very developed characters… Dre patience and understanding was Chef’s kiss! Good one day read by the fireplace. Love the Author ,
November 19, 2025
Good light afternoon read. We get to see our FMC love and lose but win again in the best of ways. Andres is a man about action. He saw a beautiful woman being unloved and he moved in validation. What was nice in this contemporary read is seeing different sides of Blackness and professions. The Autism rep was done incredibly well and I liked the conversations the mains had.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews