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Moment of Truth
ESMEE has built a life she’s proud of—running her own coffeehouse, curating soulful poetry nights, and staying laser-focused on her success. Love? Not part of the plan.
But when a night out brings her face-to-face with LYNX—her old college study partner turned thriving contractor—everything shifts. Back then, he was too shy to say how he felt. Now, he’s confident, successful, and still carries a torch for her that she never knew burned.
When she hires him for a major renovation, it’s supposed to be all business. But Lynx has waited long enough, and this time, he’s not backing down.
MOMENT OF TRUTH is a second-chance romance about ambition, timing, and the kind of love that never lets go.
But when a night out brings her face-to-face with LYNX—her old college study partner turned thriving contractor—everything shifts. Back then, he was too shy to say how he felt. Now, he’s confident, successful, and still carries a torch for her that she never knew burned.
When she hires him for a major renovation, it’s supposed to be all business. But Lynx has waited long enough, and this time, he’s not backing down.
MOMENT OF TRUTH is a second-chance romance about ambition, timing, and the kind of love that never lets go.
168 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 3, 2025
33 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
November 18, 2025
This was my first read by this author, and it was cute. Esmee was raised to stay focused in everything she did, no distractions. I.E. men, per her father. Being the good girl that she is, she followed his teachings to the letter. However, when she reconnects with Lincoln, she rethinks her teachings.
Lincoln aka Lynx, done had a glow up. He met Eliza/Esmee in college and was feeling her something fierce. However, he didn’t have the courage to tell her at that time. Well, now Lynx is bold, and coming for what he wants.
Esmee gives him a hard time at first, but slowly allows him in, realizing that he is everything she didn’t know she needed. The way Lynx showed up for Esmee and loved her was beautiful. Their friend group was adorable and held each other down. Looking forward to Zena’s read.
Lincoln aka Lynx, done had a glow up. He met Eliza/Esmee in college and was feeling her something fierce. However, he didn’t have the courage to tell her at that time. Well, now Lynx is bold, and coming for what he wants.
Esmee gives him a hard time at first, but slowly allows him in, realizing that he is everything she didn’t know she needed. The way Lynx showed up for Esmee and loved her was beautiful. Their friend group was adorable and held each other down. Looking forward to Zena’s read.
August 30, 2025
My 2nd book from Mrs Juri Hines & I can say I AM
NOT DISAPPOINTED. I loved how hardworking Esmee is & how she loved on her friends . I also loved how Lynx knew what he wanted and went for it . I wasn’t too crazy with the way he handled some things but that’s still bae lol . I loved me some Zena . The banter and comedy in this book was amazing and I just loved the geechie slang in this book . Definitely a 10/10 and would definitely recommend 💕
NOT DISAPPOINTED. I loved how hardworking Esmee is & how she loved on her friends . I also loved how Lynx knew what he wanted and went for it . I wasn’t too crazy with the way he handled some things but that’s still bae lol . I loved me some Zena . The banter and comedy in this book was amazing and I just loved the geechie slang in this book . Definitely a 10/10 and would definitely recommend 💕
July 28, 2025
2.75⭐️
July 26, 2025
Beautiful couple, funny dialogue & overall sweet, wholesome story❣️📚❣️
Love a story that has a good combo of love, life & laughter! A colorful cast of characters & strong family ties as well as friendships. Enjoyed the growth & entrepreneurship highlighted through Esmee, Lynx & the entire cast of characters in this thriving community. Fast-paced & entertaining - great continuation of Juri’s debut ‘Sparks in the Moment’.
Love a story that has a good combo of love, life & laughter! A colorful cast of characters & strong family ties as well as friendships. Enjoyed the growth & entrepreneurship highlighted through Esmee, Lynx & the entire cast of characters in this thriving community. Fast-paced & entertaining - great continuation of Juri’s debut ‘Sparks in the Moment’.
July 8, 2025
Such a cute story!
November 23, 2025
Moment of Truth by Juri Hines gave me all the second chance romance vibes I love. Esmee has built a life she is proud of, running her coffeehouse, curating soulful poetry nights, and staying focused on her goals. She is not really looking for love again, but when Lynx, her old college study partner, steps back into her life, everything shifts in the best way. Their reconnection has a smooth, soulful energy that instantly reminded me of Love Jones with its creative atmosphere and emotional pull.
One of my favorite parts of this story is the way Hines highlights other Black authors and cultural touchpoints. It feels warm and familiar, like a quiet nod to the creative community that shapes us. Since I am from South Carolina too, the cultural references added comfort and made certain scenes feel even more personal. The chemistry between Esmee and Lynx grows slowly and tenderly, and by the end it definitely picks up a little heat.
This book is more than a reunion. It focuses on healing, growth, and trusting yourself again after old wounds fade. Esmee’s journey is thoughtful, relatable, and beautifully grounded in community and artistry. I am giving it four stars because it is heartfelt and emotionally rich, and I only wish I could have spent more time with them.
One of my favorite parts of this story is the way Hines highlights other Black authors and cultural touchpoints. It feels warm and familiar, like a quiet nod to the creative community that shapes us. Since I am from South Carolina too, the cultural references added comfort and made certain scenes feel even more personal. The chemistry between Esmee and Lynx grows slowly and tenderly, and by the end it definitely picks up a little heat.
This book is more than a reunion. It focuses on healing, growth, and trusting yourself again after old wounds fade. Esmee’s journey is thoughtful, relatable, and beautifully grounded in community and artistry. I am giving it four stars because it is heartfelt and emotionally rich, and I only wish I could have spent more time with them.
October 5, 2025
This is my first book by the author, and I enjoyed it. This story follows Esmee & Lincoln, they met in college and was in the same study group. Fat forward to now they are both business owners, Esmee owns a coffee shop which she wants to renovate, and Lincoln owns several businesses and just acquired a gym. and cross paths again. Esmee doesn't have time for dating, she is focused on her business. Lincoln aka Lynx is happy to run into his childhood crush again and doesn't want to waste this second chance.
I love the small town, country vibes with the group of friends. for someone like Esmee, Lynx was exactly what she needs, a man who has experience being a boss, and wouldn't waste her time. I love who he was loving and patient but also let her know when she was being a little disrespectful. I enjoyed the friendships, the family dynamic, the southern charm.
I love the small town, country vibes with the group of friends. for someone like Esmee, Lynx was exactly what she needs, a man who has experience being a boss, and wouldn't waste her time. I love who he was loving and patient but also let her know when she was being a little disrespectful. I enjoyed the friendships, the family dynamic, the southern charm.
September 23, 2025
This was such a quick and engaging read—I was hooked right from the beginning! Lincoln/Lynx has officially been added to my list of book baes. 😍
What I really enjoyed was how the story explored the journey of a focused, driven, independent woman learning that there’s more to life than just work. It’s okay to want and need love, especially when it’s with someone who truly sees and supports you. The second chance romance was heartfelt and so satisfying to read.
Overall, a fun, romantic, and empowering story that left me smiling.
What I really enjoyed was how the story explored the journey of a focused, driven, independent woman learning that there’s more to life than just work. It’s okay to want and need love, especially when it’s with someone who truly sees and supports you. The second chance romance was heartfelt and so satisfying to read.
Overall, a fun, romantic, and empowering story that left me smiling.
November 17, 2025
This is my first book by Juri Hines. I got this during the #BRAE event. I adored how rich in life Esmee was. From the start her circle of sisters/cousins warmed my heart and reminded me of my own family support system. Lynx was applying every bit of pressure this go around. He was not letting his second chance get by and I loved that. He let her know right away that he was not here to play with her heart. Third act breakups usually annoy me because they’re usually do to some miscommunication but no, this one was warranted! I was sooo mad at how Esmee handled that! 😂
November 14, 2025
I felt this in my spirit
This book was everything. The plot,setting and themes. I absolutely loved the poetry. I got some great quotes from this book for my motivation wall. Run don’t walk to purchase this one. This a new author to me and I’m excited to read her entire catalog.
This book was everything. The plot,setting and themes. I absolutely loved the poetry. I got some great quotes from this book for my motivation wall. Run don’t walk to purchase this one. This a new author to me and I’m excited to read her entire catalog.
November 17, 2025
Cute romance
Cute and sweet romance where Lincoln finally got his chance to get his crush. Now Eliza almost lost him listening to her daddy but just like her grandma Ma May said, he got his love already he basically full of $#@t lol. Quick read that gives you all the romance vibes you need.
Cute and sweet romance where Lincoln finally got his chance to get his crush. Now Eliza almost lost him listening to her daddy but just like her grandma Ma May said, he got his love already he basically full of $#@t lol. Quick read that gives you all the romance vibes you need.
October 29, 2025
great read!!
I looove the way he loved her! I am a huge fan of friends to lovers and second chance/one that for away. Juri nailed this one and I can’t wait to read about Zena!!
I looove the way he loved her! I am a huge fan of friends to lovers and second chance/one that for away. Juri nailed this one and I can’t wait to read about Zena!!
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews