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The Probability of Us
Jahlani Jones has a plan. Finish her master’s. Land her dream job. Achieve financial stability. All of which comes to a screeching halt when her long-term boyfriend leaves her, her mounting debt catches up, and she's forced to move back in with her emotionally distant mother. As her constructed life unravels, she accepts an offer to become the graduate teaching assistant for a statistics course— an opportunity to regain some control.
Roman Hayes has a goal. Become a successful software engineer. A demanding task made even harder as a single father. With graduation looming, he resolves to do whatever it takes to get the future he wants for himself. The last thing he needs is to be distracted by lurid fantasies about his captivating, mahogany-eyed teaching assistant during lectures.
When a misunderstanding puts them at odds, the tension threatens to derail their already complicated lives. Forced to work together, they struggle to put aside their differences and prioritize their dreams. But as the semester unfolds, Jahlani wonders if she’s misjudged him. Maybe he isn't just another lackadaisical, privileged pretty boy. And Roman finds himself drawn further into her calculating stares, and the challenge of breaking down her walls. Despite having his academic fate in her hands, he can’t seem to pull away, and Jahlani can’t seem to shake the striking green of his eyes long after he’s gone.
As their resistance weakens, both must confront their pasts, their dreams, and the possibility that love— complicated, unexpected, real love—might just be the variable they’ve both been missing.
Roman Hayes has a goal. Become a successful software engineer. A demanding task made even harder as a single father. With graduation looming, he resolves to do whatever it takes to get the future he wants for himself. The last thing he needs is to be distracted by lurid fantasies about his captivating, mahogany-eyed teaching assistant during lectures.
When a misunderstanding puts them at odds, the tension threatens to derail their already complicated lives. Forced to work together, they struggle to put aside their differences and prioritize their dreams. But as the semester unfolds, Jahlani wonders if she’s misjudged him. Maybe he isn't just another lackadaisical, privileged pretty boy. And Roman finds himself drawn further into her calculating stares, and the challenge of breaking down her walls. Despite having his academic fate in her hands, he can’t seem to pull away, and Jahlani can’t seem to shake the striking green of his eyes long after he’s gone.
As their resistance weakens, both must confront their pasts, their dreams, and the possibility that love— complicated, unexpected, real love—might just be the variable they’ve both been missing.
375 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 14, 2025
146 people are currently reading
880 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
December 20, 2025
2 stars 🌟 started off good but around 70% i was growing tired of these two and their inability to communicate and follow their own rules 😭 obviously everything worked out in the end but romanjahlani were a bit surface level and quite corny 🧮🍼🏊♀️ i usually love any academic romance or even forbidden, but this was just a huge miss for me jahlani’s constant push and pull with roman pissed me off and roman lowkey annoyed me too with his corny “swoony”speeches (im probably too much of a hater but wtv) 🥲
there were a ton of loose ends in this: jahlanis relationship with both of her parents, the therapy she was supposed to start going to, roman’s mother (?), lucy’s condition and like so much more 🙁 i think the author was trying to add in all these tropes but it was entirely too jumbled. and not to single her out or anything but smut in the last few chapters/epilogue is soooo tacky to me 💔 it didn’t help that i wasn’t really invested in their relationship at that point either
there were a ton of loose ends in this: jahlanis relationship with both of her parents, the therapy she was supposed to start going to, roman’s mother (?), lucy’s condition and like so much more 🙁 i think the author was trying to add in all these tropes but it was entirely too jumbled. and not to single her out or anything but smut in the last few chapters/epilogue is soooo tacky to me 💔 it didn’t help that i wasn’t really invested in their relationship at that point either
December 9, 2025
ARC Reader!!
This book was BEAUTIFULLY written. It was so eloquent and captivating.
The characters were also VERY well written! They felt so real. They had so many layers that got peeled apart as the story went on.
The plot was very engaging. I only put it down once to eat dinner 😅
I haven’t take a stats class since high school so I felt like I was learning something all over again a couple times when she was giving lectures lol
🌶️ - a couple spice scenes, one is kind of long but none of them are super descriptive
Overall, this was an incredible debut and I would highly recommend!
This book was BEAUTIFULLY written. It was so eloquent and captivating.
The characters were also VERY well written! They felt so real. They had so many layers that got peeled apart as the story went on.
The plot was very engaging. I only put it down once to eat dinner 😅
I haven’t take a stats class since high school so I felt like I was learning something all over again a couple times when she was giving lectures lol
🌶️ - a couple spice scenes, one is kind of long but none of them are super descriptive
Overall, this was an incredible debut and I would highly recommend!
December 29, 2025
2⭐️
The probability of me liking this was very high until I got half way through and Jehlani was absolutely grinding my gearssss!! I kept reading in hopes that the book would turn around for the better until I got to the end.
Firstly, I understand the need to maintain professionalism within the realm of her being Roman’s assistant teacher but when lines were crossed, I mean come on. Just go with it and let it happen, sis was already in it deep. Literally!
Roman and Lucy were such sweethearts but Jehlani was literally holding out at everything possible angle.
This is why anyone considering a relationship knowing they’re messed up should seek help. We see that she considered and potentially started but still ended up fleeing the scene. Don’t get me wrong, initially I felt sorry for Jehlani because of the cards she was dealt, but then I couldn’t wait to close the book on her sorry behind.
Absolutely beautiful cover of them but I say all that to say, it would’ve been nice to see them being more of a happy couple, so we could see more than a glimpse of their future in the last chapter and the epilogue. More often than not it kind of felt like reading anxiety/romance in a book.
I believe this is the authors first book and I’m happy to have supported so I recommend it, who knows you’ll probably love it.
The probability of me liking this was very high until I got half way through and Jehlani was absolutely grinding my gearssss!! I kept reading in hopes that the book would turn around for the better until I got to the end.
Firstly, I understand the need to maintain professionalism within the realm of her being Roman’s assistant teacher but when lines were crossed, I mean come on. Just go with it and let it happen, sis was already in it deep. Literally!
Roman and Lucy were such sweethearts but Jehlani was literally holding out at everything possible angle.
This is why anyone considering a relationship knowing they’re messed up should seek help. We see that she considered and potentially started but still ended up fleeing the scene. Don’t get me wrong, initially I felt sorry for Jehlani because of the cards she was dealt, but then I couldn’t wait to close the book on her sorry behind.
Absolutely beautiful cover of them but I say all that to say, it would’ve been nice to see them being more of a happy couple, so we could see more than a glimpse of their future in the last chapter and the epilogue. More often than not it kind of felt like reading anxiety/romance in a book.
I believe this is the authors first book and I’m happy to have supported so I recommend it, who knows you’ll probably love it.
December 19, 2025
3.5 STARS ⭐️ BLACK WOMEN IN STEM (statistics is stem right?…… right?)
IT WASNT PERFECT BUT IT WAS BEAUTIFUL AND I NEED A MOVIE ADAPTATION IMMEDIATELY
No seriously, I think this was a debut and I think it was phenomenal— there’s some cringe and yes some grammatical errors but it has so much heart, what can I do ?!
IT WASNT PERFECT BUT IT WAS BEAUTIFUL AND I NEED A MOVIE ADAPTATION IMMEDIATELY
No seriously, I think this was a debut and I think it was phenomenal— there’s some cringe and yes some grammatical errors but it has so much heart, what can I do ?!
January 17, 2026
3.75-4⭐️ thank you elizabeth-jade taylor for this ebook ARC! this was a such a sweet and cozy romance! for some reason the characters reminded me of tiana and naveen from the princess and the frog haha
this story follows jahlani and roman, a single father. as roman is finishing up his last semester before graduation, he finds himself juggling his last class to become a software engineer while taking care of his daughter who faces a rare illness. jahlani has one goal- to finish her master’s and land her dream job. when her long-term boyfriend abruptly ends things, she’s forced to move back home to florida to complete her program. jahlani finds herself becoming a teaching assistant for a statistics course in order complete her internship. roman and jahlani find themselves at odds when they encounter a misunderstanding, but will they be able to put their feelings aside when tension between them begins to develop?
I really enjoyed seeing their relationship grow and unfold throughout the book. roman has a pretty face, but such a big heart- I really loved how patient he was with jahlani and allowing her figure out her feelings while still little by little showing her cares about her. at times I saw myself in jahlani the way she felt like she had to put her priorities first and follow the rules. also we love a black woman in STEM! the pacing of the book felt very steady, and we didn’t really get to see their relationship bloom until about 50-60% so the last couple of chapters felt a little rushed, it was still very cute!
I hope we get another book thought about Danica because I would LOVE to read her story, her character was so funny, but also cared about her brother in such a sisterly way. I loved reading her scenes in the book!
thank you again elizabeth-jade and literary inspired for the opportunity to read this ARC! 💚
this story follows jahlani and roman, a single father. as roman is finishing up his last semester before graduation, he finds himself juggling his last class to become a software engineer while taking care of his daughter who faces a rare illness. jahlani has one goal- to finish her master’s and land her dream job. when her long-term boyfriend abruptly ends things, she’s forced to move back home to florida to complete her program. jahlani finds herself becoming a teaching assistant for a statistics course in order complete her internship. roman and jahlani find themselves at odds when they encounter a misunderstanding, but will they be able to put their feelings aside when tension between them begins to develop?
I really enjoyed seeing their relationship grow and unfold throughout the book. roman has a pretty face, but such a big heart- I really loved how patient he was with jahlani and allowing her figure out her feelings while still little by little showing her cares about her. at times I saw myself in jahlani the way she felt like she had to put her priorities first and follow the rules. also we love a black woman in STEM! the pacing of the book felt very steady, and we didn’t really get to see their relationship bloom until about 50-60% so the last couple of chapters felt a little rushed, it was still very cute!
I hope we get another book thought about Danica because I would LOVE to read her story, her character was so funny, but also cared about her brother in such a sisterly way. I loved reading her scenes in the book!
thank you again elizabeth-jade and literary inspired for the opportunity to read this ARC! 💚
December 9, 2025
Arc reader
The probability of us is easily one of my favorites reads this year. The characters are easy to love, the writing beautiful. I finished this book in hours, there's not so many words I can use to describe actually finishing the book, it's one of those books that spoiler others for you. I can't wait to read every other of her works.
The probability of us is easily one of my favorites reads this year. The characters are easy to love, the writing beautiful. I finished this book in hours, there's not so many words I can use to describe actually finishing the book, it's one of those books that spoiler others for you. I can't wait to read every other of her works.
December 18, 2025
4.5 STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First, I want to thank Elizabeth Jade Taylor for allowing me to be part of the ARC team for this book.
Reading this story was such a refreshing experience. I absolutely loved the playlist that was added at the beginning to read along with the book. Each song felt intentional and perfectly matched the tone of the story. Not only do we get to watch the characters grow, but seeing myself reflected in Jahlani as a strong Black female lead made every emotion feel more intense. Representation like this truly matters, and it added so much depth to my reading experience.
I especially loved how unapologetically Black Jahlani is. Throughout the entire book, you can tell she is her true self, comfortable in who she is and unwilling to change for anyone. The inclusion of her experiences as a Black woman in a male-dominated industry was incredibly powerful. Watching her navigate a space state how she has to work twice as hard to earn the same position felt deeply connected to today’s society and the realities many black women face. It made her story feel even more real and impactful.I appreciated how clear Jahlani was with Roman about where she stood as a black woman in that field. Roman’s response being completely understanding, respectful, and giving her the space to grow into the person she needed to be only made me love him more.
On the flip side, I loved how Jahlani was able to truly see how much working at the bar brought Roman to life. She recognized how fulfilled and happy it made him, and I adored that she was willing to speak to his mom on his behalf making it clear that her son is not only talented at what he does, but genuinely happy doing it. That moment showed so much emotional maturity and care. I loved how open Jahlani was to learning about Lucy’s condition and how she went the extra mile to make sure she didn’t put Lucy at risk of getting an infection. Those small but meaningful actions spoke volumes about her character and how deeply she cared not just for Roman, but for the most important part of his life.
The yearning and banter between Jahlani and Roman had me smiling nonstop. Their interactions are giddy, sweet, and filled with tension in the best way. Roman is clearly in love from the very beginning, and you can feel how deeply he respects and cares for Jahlani, even as he struggles with his own emotions and responsibilities.
At first, I assumed Roman would be the typical rich, cocky guy based on their initial interaction. However, learning that he’s a single father juggling work, college, and raising his daughter completely changed my perspective. His constant desire for Jahlani grows stronger throughout the book, shown through his reassurance, thoughtful communication, and the small details he remembers, like her favorite snack. Roman is such a warm, optimistic character who keeps pushing forward despite everything stacked against him. It’s impossible not to develop a soft spot for him.
I also deeply related to Jahlani’s internal struggles of constantly feeling the need to prove yourself, not fully recognizing your own beauty or worth, and still pushing forward toward your dreams. Her drive and ambition made her feel incredibly real and relatable.
In terms of improvement, I wasn’t a big fan of the third-person point of view. At times, I found myself confused about who was speaking, and I personally prefer first-person POV because it helps me feel fully immersed as if I’m walking through the story alongside the characters. With third person, it felt more like watching events unfold from the outside, which slightly lessened my connection.
I also would have loved a scene later in the book where Roman and his mom reconnect after she hears what Jahlani had to say about Roman working at the bar. Seeing that conversation and her gaining a better understanding of why that job makes him happy would have added even more emotional depth. Additionally, in the epilogue, I wished we could see whether Jahlani had built a stronger relationship with her family. Even though it’s set only a few months later, it would have been nice to glimpse any progress with her mom and dad.
Together, Jahlani and Roman are such a perfect pairing and truly complement one another. Their relationship is built on mutual respect, understanding, and support, which made their love story feel both genuine and deeply satisfying.
If you love banter, yearning, emotional depth, strong female leads, and meaningful representation, this book is absolutely for you. Most of this book is highlighted because I was completely obsessed. And honestly, if this ever becomes a series or a movie… wink wink—I would love to play Jahlani.
First, I want to thank Elizabeth Jade Taylor for allowing me to be part of the ARC team for this book.
Reading this story was such a refreshing experience. I absolutely loved the playlist that was added at the beginning to read along with the book. Each song felt intentional and perfectly matched the tone of the story. Not only do we get to watch the characters grow, but seeing myself reflected in Jahlani as a strong Black female lead made every emotion feel more intense. Representation like this truly matters, and it added so much depth to my reading experience.
I especially loved how unapologetically Black Jahlani is. Throughout the entire book, you can tell she is her true self, comfortable in who she is and unwilling to change for anyone. The inclusion of her experiences as a Black woman in a male-dominated industry was incredibly powerful. Watching her navigate a space state how she has to work twice as hard to earn the same position felt deeply connected to today’s society and the realities many black women face. It made her story feel even more real and impactful.I appreciated how clear Jahlani was with Roman about where she stood as a black woman in that field. Roman’s response being completely understanding, respectful, and giving her the space to grow into the person she needed to be only made me love him more.
On the flip side, I loved how Jahlani was able to truly see how much working at the bar brought Roman to life. She recognized how fulfilled and happy it made him, and I adored that she was willing to speak to his mom on his behalf making it clear that her son is not only talented at what he does, but genuinely happy doing it. That moment showed so much emotional maturity and care. I loved how open Jahlani was to learning about Lucy’s condition and how she went the extra mile to make sure she didn’t put Lucy at risk of getting an infection. Those small but meaningful actions spoke volumes about her character and how deeply she cared not just for Roman, but for the most important part of his life.
The yearning and banter between Jahlani and Roman had me smiling nonstop. Their interactions are giddy, sweet, and filled with tension in the best way. Roman is clearly in love from the very beginning, and you can feel how deeply he respects and cares for Jahlani, even as he struggles with his own emotions and responsibilities.
At first, I assumed Roman would be the typical rich, cocky guy based on their initial interaction. However, learning that he’s a single father juggling work, college, and raising his daughter completely changed my perspective. His constant desire for Jahlani grows stronger throughout the book, shown through his reassurance, thoughtful communication, and the small details he remembers, like her favorite snack. Roman is such a warm, optimistic character who keeps pushing forward despite everything stacked against him. It’s impossible not to develop a soft spot for him.
I also deeply related to Jahlani’s internal struggles of constantly feeling the need to prove yourself, not fully recognizing your own beauty or worth, and still pushing forward toward your dreams. Her drive and ambition made her feel incredibly real and relatable.
In terms of improvement, I wasn’t a big fan of the third-person point of view. At times, I found myself confused about who was speaking, and I personally prefer first-person POV because it helps me feel fully immersed as if I’m walking through the story alongside the characters. With third person, it felt more like watching events unfold from the outside, which slightly lessened my connection.
I also would have loved a scene later in the book where Roman and his mom reconnect after she hears what Jahlani had to say about Roman working at the bar. Seeing that conversation and her gaining a better understanding of why that job makes him happy would have added even more emotional depth. Additionally, in the epilogue, I wished we could see whether Jahlani had built a stronger relationship with her family. Even though it’s set only a few months later, it would have been nice to glimpse any progress with her mom and dad.
Together, Jahlani and Roman are such a perfect pairing and truly complement one another. Their relationship is built on mutual respect, understanding, and support, which made their love story feel both genuine and deeply satisfying.
If you love banter, yearning, emotional depth, strong female leads, and meaningful representation, this book is absolutely for you. Most of this book is highlighted because I was completely obsessed. And honestly, if this ever becomes a series or a movie… wink wink—I would love to play Jahlani.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2026
Is it good yes but it took me a while to lock in and finish. The characters are cute you like them and want to root for them but the story telling is dull at times. Very hum drum day to day stuff with the FMC having issues that aren’t fully unpacked in a way that the reader can feel. Like basically we’re led to believe all this angst and issues is cus of her parent divorce and feeling abandoned 🙄. Roman has his own set of problems and does read just a bit thirsty. Is he sweet oh for sure did the tension build as far as sexual chemistry and compatibility YES. By the time we finally get intimate were 75% so as a reader you’re left sprinting along to get to the end and figure out where it ends. Happy ending and nice choice of career for the FMC for uniqueness but other than that it was just good enough. 3.5 star read. The author touches on some interesting subjects but never fully dives deep so the impact is lackluster
December 14, 2025
ARC READER
4.5⭐️
This was my first ever ARC read that I’ve been assigned and I was grateful to have received this spectacular debut novel. It has been a while since I have read third person novels, but the style of writing made me fall into a groove relatively fast. Both Roman and Jahlani are complex and deeply layered characters and I like how that was explored throughout the novel. At times I was a little annoyed with Jahlani but I also understand that her upbringing played a big part in why she is the way she is a character.
A few notes -
- Roman is a true yearner 😂
- The 🌶️ chapters were done tastefully in my opinion and weren’t too much even though they were quite long at times
- The angst, heartbreak, and push/pull was one of my favorite aspects
- I like how the author took the time to research both medical illnesses and statistics, which made it feel much more realistic.
Truly a stellar read! Can’t wait to read more front this author 😊
Huge thanks to Literary Inspired for organizing this ARC read! 💌
4.5⭐️
This was my first ever ARC read that I’ve been assigned and I was grateful to have received this spectacular debut novel. It has been a while since I have read third person novels, but the style of writing made me fall into a groove relatively fast. Both Roman and Jahlani are complex and deeply layered characters and I like how that was explored throughout the novel. At times I was a little annoyed with Jahlani but I also understand that her upbringing played a big part in why she is the way she is a character.
A few notes -
- Roman is a true yearner 😂
- The 🌶️ chapters were done tastefully in my opinion and weren’t too much even though they were quite long at times
- The angst, heartbreak, and push/pull was one of my favorite aspects
- I like how the author took the time to research both medical illnesses and statistics, which made it feel much more realistic.
Truly a stellar read! Can’t wait to read more front this author 😊
Huge thanks to Literary Inspired for organizing this ARC read! 💌
December 14, 2025
This was such a beautiful book. I couldn’t put it down. This is a must read. I 10/10 recommend this book.
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
January 21, 2026
YAWN.
DNFd at 60% this was so lame
the first half was okay but then the whole "nooo we cant" thing lasted too long
DNFd at 60% this was so lame
the first half was okay but then the whole "nooo we cant" thing lasted too long
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutely charming, once I started I ate this up. Jahlani and Roman are a dream they're both at a crossroad in their lives, both come with baggage and yet the cosmos threw them together. Not without its moments Jahlani annoyed me in some parts lol but overall great read.
December 23, 2025
The concept for this book immediately drew me in. Both characters are STEM majors, she's the teaching assistant in his class, it's reverse grumpy x sunshine, and it's slow burn. I went into it knowing this book was the author's debut, and I was pleasantly surprised. The writing was very good and instantly drew me in. The author does a great job of putting you in Jahlani's shoes and allowing you to feel her emotions and thought process. The romance in this book was also very well-done; it toes the line of just enough angst and will-they-won't-they to keep you reading and too much to deter you away. The slow burn was done well, and I felt as though the main characters had a genuine connection and chemistry. However, I felt disconnected and frustrated with Jahlani at times. She kept pushing Roman away and running from any potential possibilities of conflict. I felt frustrated with her self-sabotaging, but at the same time, I related to Jahlani quite a bit. She forced me to face a part of myself that I keep buried, so while I felt annoyed at times, especially at the end, I couldn't find it in myself to blame her. Also, the characters were complex; Jahlani was not simply the "grumpy" to Roman's "sunshine". There are moments where Roman is not positive, happy, nor bubbly; he's a person who is dealing with a heavy burden, and the same goes for Jahlani. There are times when she's not pessimistic or sarcastic; she's a normal woman dealing with her own problems and cards she has been dealt. One of my main criticisms of this book was the plot development and ending. I felt as though the ending was not done very well and left much to be tied up and resolved. Also, with the underdevelopment of some of Jahlani's relationships with her family and ex-boyfriend, it seemed hard to fully understand where Jahlani was coming from. I also really wanted to learn a bit more about Roman and his relationship with his mother and his career. Overall, I enjoyed reading the book and appreciated the characterization, but it left me wanting more in terms of clarification and development. Thank you to Elizabeth-Jade Taylor and Literary Inspired for providing me with an arc copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
December 22, 2025
ARC review
pretending to like something for a man, let alone mint chocolate chip ice cream is a crime and a red flag in and of itself.
y'all I'm already in love with Roman. it's something so simple, but he was there for Jahlani in a situation where he could've ignored her. I'm swooning right now.
I love that Jahlani is a math wizard and while I'm not dumb nor bad at statistics, it's been a while since I've seen or even thought about stats so reading the equation relating to Bayes Theorem almost took me out because I was stressed I wasn't getting it as if I was a student in the class 😭😂. safe to say I remembered this is fictional lol
not going to lie, Jahlani funny. her falling asleep during the club scene is so real because I could definitely see myself doing just that because I don't go out fr.
Roman ex is hot garbage. how are you doing to leave because it's "too much," how do you think Roman feels? he's breaking his back to make everything right and this dummy just up and left. yeah, death is seeking you at the bingo table.
Jahlani with Lucy? be still my heart, their first interaction was so cute. especially because Jahlani was nervous at first. I'm crying in the club right now y'all.
Roman mom really still trying to control his life like he's not a whole parent who can make his own decisions for himself and his daughter. I don't vibe with that at all honestly.
Jahlani mom sucks just as much as Roman's. I can't with them. they don't know how to treat people and it's really irritating me. her mom really is insufferable and I wish I could slap her.
You know a little gentle, harmless kidnapping never hurt no one. Roman is too good, he's just so sweet and respectable. Even when he should probably be mean, he's not. He deserves all the happiness in the world.
Jahlani self sabotages herself a lot and it's stressing me out. like girl, let that man love you in peace please 😭. bout to break my daggone heart as well
I'm so mad at Jahlani for running away and leaving Roman. I know why she did it. I know her past, I know it's not entirely her fault, but damn do I hate it
Jahlani, you stubborn girl. from start to finish you've been hardheaded and Roman has been level headed the entire time. I love the balance and that he understands her to the point that he knows her true feelings even when she's scared about their situation.
the joke about hurricanes and earthquakes is funnier when you truly understand the gravity of both of those things. as someone who lives in a hurricane state, but have family in an earthquake state I get it and it's a hilarious joke.
y'all this book ended too soon. I needed more of Roman and Jahlani. I loved them together, I loved their little family dynamic. I'm begging the author to give me more 😭
⭐️ 4
♾️ forbidden romance
📚 single dad
♾️ forced proximity
📚 black cat x golden retriever
♾️ he falls first
pretending to like something for a man, let alone mint chocolate chip ice cream is a crime and a red flag in and of itself.
y'all I'm already in love with Roman. it's something so simple, but he was there for Jahlani in a situation where he could've ignored her. I'm swooning right now.
I love that Jahlani is a math wizard and while I'm not dumb nor bad at statistics, it's been a while since I've seen or even thought about stats so reading the equation relating to Bayes Theorem almost took me out because I was stressed I wasn't getting it as if I was a student in the class 😭😂. safe to say I remembered this is fictional lol
not going to lie, Jahlani funny. her falling asleep during the club scene is so real because I could definitely see myself doing just that because I don't go out fr.
Roman ex is hot garbage. how are you doing to leave because it's "too much," how do you think Roman feels? he's breaking his back to make everything right and this dummy just up and left. yeah, death is seeking you at the bingo table.
Jahlani with Lucy? be still my heart, their first interaction was so cute. especially because Jahlani was nervous at first. I'm crying in the club right now y'all.
Roman mom really still trying to control his life like he's not a whole parent who can make his own decisions for himself and his daughter. I don't vibe with that at all honestly.
Jahlani mom sucks just as much as Roman's. I can't with them. they don't know how to treat people and it's really irritating me. her mom really is insufferable and I wish I could slap her.
You know a little gentle, harmless kidnapping never hurt no one. Roman is too good, he's just so sweet and respectable. Even when he should probably be mean, he's not. He deserves all the happiness in the world.
Jahlani self sabotages herself a lot and it's stressing me out. like girl, let that man love you in peace please 😭. bout to break my daggone heart as well
I'm so mad at Jahlani for running away and leaving Roman. I know why she did it. I know her past, I know it's not entirely her fault, but damn do I hate it
Jahlani, you stubborn girl. from start to finish you've been hardheaded and Roman has been level headed the entire time. I love the balance and that he understands her to the point that he knows her true feelings even when she's scared about their situation.
the joke about hurricanes and earthquakes is funnier when you truly understand the gravity of both of those things. as someone who lives in a hurricane state, but have family in an earthquake state I get it and it's a hilarious joke.
y'all this book ended too soon. I needed more of Roman and Jahlani. I loved them together, I loved their little family dynamic. I'm begging the author to give me more 😭
⭐️ 4
♾️ forbidden romance
📚 single dad
♾️ forced proximity
📚 black cat x golden retriever
♾️ he falls first
December 14, 2025
I have to thank my Pinterest feed for leading me here because without it I wouldn't have signed up for the ARC of this absolute gem. From the very first chapter, this book had my full attention. It's exactly how you should start a story, with a BANG!
The chemistry between Roman and Jahlani is chef's kiss. Their meet-cute was subtle and sweet, and the slow burn that followed was done to perfection. There's so much resistance on Jahlani's side, yet she's clearly nervous around him and undeniably drawn to him. The tension and yearning are impeccable.
The tropes were handled so well. I'm so glad the single-dad trope didn't dominate the story and that the (assistant) student-teacher dynamic was done thoughtfully and appropriately. The plotting was crisp, intentional and so well executed. And can we please bring back chapter names and contents? because I loved these ones.
I appreciated that these characters were far from perfect but that they tried to be better themselves.
Roman is warm, patient, and loving with his whole heart, but not without flaws. I loved that his imperfections made him feel real rather than idealised. Roman definitely falls first and falls hard. He makes his intentions clear from the beginning, yet remains incredibly patient. If I were him, I would've given up long ago, but that's exactly why he's perfect for Jahlani.
My heart broke for Jahlani. Her strained relationship with her family, especially her emotionally detached mother, was so tough to read. The book does such a great job at unpacking complicated parental relationships and their lasting impact. Jahlani is smart, serious, and constantly trying to prove she belongs in the room, very much a woman in STEM who carries the weight of expectation and self-doubt.
The author is extremely talented, and for a debut, this was beyond impressive. I'm already looking forward to the rest of the series.
The chemistry between Roman and Jahlani is chef's kiss. Their meet-cute was subtle and sweet, and the slow burn that followed was done to perfection. There's so much resistance on Jahlani's side, yet she's clearly nervous around him and undeniably drawn to him. The tension and yearning are impeccable.
The tropes were handled so well. I'm so glad the single-dad trope didn't dominate the story and that the (assistant) student-teacher dynamic was done thoughtfully and appropriately. The plotting was crisp, intentional and so well executed. And can we please bring back chapter names and contents? because I loved these ones.
I appreciated that these characters were far from perfect but that they tried to be better themselves.
Roman is warm, patient, and loving with his whole heart, but not without flaws. I loved that his imperfections made him feel real rather than idealised. Roman definitely falls first and falls hard. He makes his intentions clear from the beginning, yet remains incredibly patient. If I were him, I would've given up long ago, but that's exactly why he's perfect for Jahlani.
My heart broke for Jahlani. Her strained relationship with her family, especially her emotionally detached mother, was so tough to read. The book does such a great job at unpacking complicated parental relationships and their lasting impact. Jahlani is smart, serious, and constantly trying to prove she belongs in the room, very much a woman in STEM who carries the weight of expectation and self-doubt.
The author is extremely talented, and for a debut, this was beyond impressive. I'm already looking forward to the rest of the series.
January 25, 2026
DNF @ 96% - you might be thinking “why not just finish the book at that point?” and honestly i couldn’t bring myself to. the book started so nicely but this constant back and forth with roman “i am in love with you so much so please stay with me” hayes and jahlani “i cant do this” jones was EXHAUSTINGGGGGG!!!! my major issue is that this is a romance book that introduces a lot more than just a romance between the main leads, namely roman’s mother, jahlani’s family, therapy, roman graduating, etc. idk if my mother called me a disappointment how roman’s did i think id have a lot more to say than just eating that diss and moving on. on the topic of jahlani’s family, everything was conveniently wrapped up? i guess i expected to be there to read about the therapy sessions and see the change in jahlani’s family dynamic but that didnt happen. everything felt so sudden and unnatural rather than fully fleshed out imo. also i thought roman graduating wouldve been a bigger deal but it was just brushed off kinda because him and jahlani weren’t in a good spot? EVEN JAHLANI’S GRADUATION WAS NEVER SHOWN???? also there was 0 character growth in ANYONE??? lastly, i dont believe it should’ve been on roman to fly all the way to cali to speak to her. it makes no sense to me that someone as straightforward as jahlani has to be told to communicate and that danica believed jahlani was right for it because “she was never taught how to communicate romantically.” SHES A GROWN ASS WOMAN PLEASE GIVE ME A BREAKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK!!!!! i guess this can be connected to her parents lack of communication with her but you would think there would be IMPROVEMENT by now being we are 85%+ into the book.
i hope for the future the author takes the necessary steps to plan & organize more to make room to discuss every topic and character fully and intentionally.
i hope for the future the author takes the necessary steps to plan & organize more to make room to discuss every topic and character fully and intentionally.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 12, 2025
Thank you again to the author and her team for sending my arc for The Probability of Us by @elizabethjadeauthor 🤍
If you know me, you would know that I have been excitedly waiting for this release ever since it was announced, and I have to say, this was another good read of 2025! It’s always refreshing to see strong and intelligent women in tough career paths, especially a Black woman. Seeing such beautiful representation and a woman who is able to make her dreams come true after working hard for herself is something I want to see more of in books.
And of course, I’m always going to hype up a book where the MMC falls first and harder. Roman was such a dream, very patient and understanding of Jahlani while she fights with herself in many ways. He is a hardworking dad who only wants to do right by his family and his daughter.
Their struggles, fears, and dreams were all at the forefront of their relationship and something they had to work through to be together. There were many bumps in the road, but the heart wants what it wants. AND THE TENSION BUILDUP??? Please 😮💨
I think the only thing for me regarding Roman is that I didn’t learn much more about who he is and his past. The main focus was Jahlani, but I had hoped for a bit more insight into whether Roman moved forward with certain things at the end.
Rating:
4.5
Tropes you’ll find: 📚 Forbidden Romance 👨👧 Single Dad 🔥 Open Door Sp!ce 🎓 TA x Student 💞 He Falls First ✨ Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine
Huge thanks to @literaryinspired for organising this ARC read! 💌
December 12, 2025
*Arc read*
I love, love, love this book. I’m not typically a fan of 3rd person in romance but this book was so detailed I was immersed and didn’t mind. Seeing the different dynamics while in somewhat similar situations was so interesting and makes you realize, you truly don’t know what someone is going through. It was noted as a ‘not so cute meet-cute’ but their first interaction had me showing all 32. Roman Hayes the man you areeee. He is the definition of a true yearner. He had his eyes set on what he wanted and didn’t ease up. Jahlani my sweet baby, I just want to give you the biggest hug and tell you everything is going to be okay. This book will hit you with all the feels as it touches on family dynamics. I do think we didn’t get much of that misunderstanding as said in the blurb, but it was still fun to read the tension of their unconventional relationship. I also did wish we touched more on her healing goal but nonetheless this book was everything and now I need my own green eyed, brunette lover boy. If you love romance books where the mmc is a yearner especially where a black woman is getting loved out loud, this is for you!
I love, love, love this book. I’m not typically a fan of 3rd person in romance but this book was so detailed I was immersed and didn’t mind. Seeing the different dynamics while in somewhat similar situations was so interesting and makes you realize, you truly don’t know what someone is going through. It was noted as a ‘not so cute meet-cute’ but their first interaction had me showing all 32. Roman Hayes the man you areeee. He is the definition of a true yearner. He had his eyes set on what he wanted and didn’t ease up. Jahlani my sweet baby, I just want to give you the biggest hug and tell you everything is going to be okay. This book will hit you with all the feels as it touches on family dynamics. I do think we didn’t get much of that misunderstanding as said in the blurb, but it was still fun to read the tension of their unconventional relationship. I also did wish we touched more on her healing goal but nonetheless this book was everything and now I need my own green eyed, brunette lover boy. If you love romance books where the mmc is a yearner especially where a black woman is getting loved out loud, this is for you!
December 14, 2025
This debut from Elizabeth-Jade Taylor is chef's kiss! The Probability of Us is an emotionally charged slow burn romance about two people trying to regain control of their lives, only to learn that love doesn’t follow a calculated plan.
Jahlani is smart, determined, and deeply guarded as she tries to navigate school stress, financial setbacks, and moving back home. Roman is a hardworking single father studying software engineering more for his mother's sake, even though it’s not where his heart truly lies. Their connection builds slowly, and is full of tension, misunderstandings, and moments that feel like they earned it.
Their chemistry is undeniable from the start, the growth feels real, and the story reminds us that love isn’t always a distraction, but the variable that changes everything.
Perfect for readers who love character-driven romance, intelligent storytelling, and love stories that feel real, messy, and deeply satisfying.
Jahlani is smart, determined, and deeply guarded as she tries to navigate school stress, financial setbacks, and moving back home. Roman is a hardworking single father studying software engineering more for his mother's sake, even though it’s not where his heart truly lies. Their connection builds slowly, and is full of tension, misunderstandings, and moments that feel like they earned it.
Their chemistry is undeniable from the start, the growth feels real, and the story reminds us that love isn’t always a distraction, but the variable that changes everything.
Perfect for readers who love character-driven romance, intelligent storytelling, and love stories that feel real, messy, and deeply satisfying.
Read
December 11, 2025*ARC REVIEW*
Once I started reading this book it was hard to put down.
- The characters felt so real, from their conversations to their situations and everything else they were dealing with. It was all so natural and realistic.
- I also liked the progression of their love story. It didn't feel too rushed.
- I think this book does a good job executing the push and pull dynamic. Especially from the perspective of someone so guarded.
Trying to describe what I liked about this book without spoilers is so hard omg
Once I started reading this book it was hard to put down.
- The characters felt so real, from their conversations to their situations and everything else they were dealing with. It was all so natural and realistic.
- I also liked the progression of their love story. It didn't feel too rushed.
- I think this book does a good job executing the push and pull dynamic. Especially from the perspective of someone so guarded.
Trying to describe what I liked about this book without spoilers is so hard omg
December 20, 2025
*ARC Review*
The Probability of us is the type of romance books that truly tugs at the heart strings. Its a romance about falling in love even with the odds stacked against you. It's about connection, growth and the magic of falling in love and making it work through difficult times.
The Probability of us is the type of romance books that truly tugs at the heart strings. Its a romance about falling in love even with the odds stacked against you. It's about connection, growth and the magic of falling in love and making it work through difficult times.
December 12, 2025
This book is more of a 4.5⭐️, I love this book with the meet cute couple. I love when there is a smart woman involved even better that she’s apart of a culture looked down on cause she proves herself to everyone. I love that he fell first and so hard and I love how she cares about him and his daughter.
December 15, 2025
I was an ARC reader! This book surprised me in the best way. The Probability of Us is a true slow burn that takes its time and lets the tension build naturally. The forbidden dynamic between Jahlani and Roman feels intentional, not rushed, which made every interaction hit harder.
Jahlani is driven and guarded in a way that feels very real, and Roman is one of those single dad characters who just quietly gets under your skin. The chemistry is all in the small moments, and the academic setting adds just enough pressure to keep things complicated.
If you like emotional, character-focused romance with real yearning and a well-earned HEA, this is absolutely worth picking up.
Jahlani is driven and guarded in a way that feels very real, and Roman is one of those single dad characters who just quietly gets under your skin. The chemistry is all in the small moments, and the academic setting adds just enough pressure to keep things complicated.
If you like emotional, character-focused romance with real yearning and a well-earned HEA, this is absolutely worth picking up.
January 13, 2026
Wasn’t in the mood I guess
January 8, 2026
DNF 65%
This book was my most anticipated read of 2025 but ultimately the book focused on aspects I didn’t really care about. I was hoping for a more ambitious, prickly FMC, but she comes across as snappy largely because she’s overwhelmed by life problems, not because it’s an intrinsic part of her personality. I was especially excited for a strong STEM/academic angle— how her love of math might shape her worldview or offer her a sense of safety and control (finding comfort in numbers, for example), but it mostly focused on her as a teaching assistant and thus those elements felt largely superficial. It felt like her degree could’ve been about anything. The MMC isn’t even interested in his degree either, only pursing it as a result of his mother’s pressure.
I also expected a different romance. Their relationship is filled with simple misunderstandings and “I’m your TA” being the main thing in the way. I expected more tension and intentional pursuit from the MMC given that he was supposed to “tear down her walls”. Maybe even a little enemies-to-lovers or forbidden romance dynamic but it’s more of a tiresome and immature push-and-pull.
Finally, the story has a huge focus on their relationships with their parents. It looked like standing up for their desires and finally demanding respect was going to be the big climax and I just didn’t care about that plot line.
This book was my most anticipated read of 2025 but ultimately the book focused on aspects I didn’t really care about. I was hoping for a more ambitious, prickly FMC, but she comes across as snappy largely because she’s overwhelmed by life problems, not because it’s an intrinsic part of her personality. I was especially excited for a strong STEM/academic angle— how her love of math might shape her worldview or offer her a sense of safety and control (finding comfort in numbers, for example), but it mostly focused on her as a teaching assistant and thus those elements felt largely superficial. It felt like her degree could’ve been about anything. The MMC isn’t even interested in his degree either, only pursing it as a result of his mother’s pressure.
I also expected a different romance. Their relationship is filled with simple misunderstandings and “I’m your TA” being the main thing in the way. I expected more tension and intentional pursuit from the MMC given that he was supposed to “tear down her walls”. Maybe even a little enemies-to-lovers or forbidden romance dynamic but it’s more of a tiresome and immature push-and-pull.
Finally, the story has a huge focus on their relationships with their parents. It looked like standing up for their desires and finally demanding respect was going to be the big climax and I just didn’t care about that plot line.
January 20, 2026
Great premise, promising start (first 30%), then lukewarm and overall disappointing rest of the book. Love to see female leads in STEM (statistics) but characters' depth could have been better.
December 31, 2025
dnf @ 33%! i liked the storyline but i couldn’t handle how they refer themselves in third person but its in dual pov.
December 14, 2025
Jahlani Jones has a plan. Finish her master’s. Land her dream job. Achieve financial stability. All of which comes to a screeching halt when her long-term boyfriend leaves her, her mounting debt catches up, and she's forced to move back in with her emotionally distant mother. As her constructed life unravels, she accepts an offer to become the graduate teaching assistant for a statistics course— an opportunity to regain some control.
Roman Hayes has a goal. Become a successful software engineer. A demanding task made even harder as a single father. With graduation looming, he resolves to do whatever it takes to get the future he wants for himself. The last thing he needs is to be distracted by lurid fantasies about his captivating, mahogany-eyed teaching assistant during lectures.
When a misunderstanding puts them at odds, the tension threatens to derail their already complicated lives. Forced to work together, they struggle to put aside their differences and prioritize their dreams. But as the semester unfolds, Jahlani wonders if she’s misjudged him. Maybe he isn't just another lackadaisical, privileged pretty boy. And Roman finds himself drawn further into her calculating stares, and the challenge of breaking down her walls. Despite having his academic fate in her hands, he can’t seem to pull away, and Jahlani can’t seem to shake the striking green of his eyes long after he’s gone.
As their resistance weakens, both must confront their pasts, their dreams, and the possibility that love— complicated, unexpected, real love—might just be the variable they’ve both been missing.
Tropes: Forbidden Romance, Single Dad, Open Door Spice, TA x Student, He Falls First, Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine, Slow Burn, Academic Romance, Tension that does not Quit, Forbidden Romance, Open Door Moments, Yearning, Graduate Teaching Assistant x Undergraduate Assistant, Complex Family Dynamics, He Falls First and Harder, Push x Pull Dynamic
The Probability of Us is the 1st book in The Improbable Love Series by Elizabeth Jade Taylor.
From the very first paragraph of the very first chapter Elizabeth Jade Taylor managed to completely enthrall me. And this is exactly how a story should start.
I found the chemistry between Roman and Jahlani to be absolutely masterful. Their first meeting was so adorable, subtle, and really very sweet. And from there their slow burn was done to absolute perfection.
We see little to no resistance on the idea of a romance between Roman and Jahlani from Jahlani, yes, we see that she’s nervous around him and at the same time she can’t help but be undeniably drawn to Roman. We can feel the tension and the yearning just jumping off the page. The resistance to the idea of a romance between Jahlani and Roman is totally behind Roman, he’s the one who’s resistant to the entire of a romantic connection between them.
All of the tropes that Elizabeth Jade Taylor used in this book were used and handled perfectly. I was a bit worried that the single-dad trope was going to dominate the entire story or the (assistant) student-teacher dynamic would dominate the storyline. But, thankfully, both of those tropes were handled carefully, thoughtfully, and they were very well executed. And I have to give Elizabeth so much credit, I loved the chapter names she gave each one of these chapters. I am so glad more Indi authors are trying to bring back chapter names.
I loved that these characters felt so real with all of their imperfections. And just like the rest of us, these characters do their best to try and better themselves.
I loved Roman. He is this warm, patient man who has this ability to love with his entire heart, but he has his own flaws. And it’s his flaws that make him feel real vs. feeling idealised. Roman is really the one who falls for Jahlani first in this story, and when he falls, he falls hard. And once he’s made his choice and realized he’s fallen for the girl, he holds nothing back in ensuring Jahlani knows what his intentions are while managing to remain incredibly patient. Most men would have given up long ago, but I think that’s one of the things that makes him so perfect for Jahlani.
My heart shattered for Jahlani. The relationship she had with her family reminded me of the relationship I have with my own family. Especially Jahlani’s emotionally detached mother, she was such a difficult woman to read. Elizabeth did such an amazing job at unpacking all the complicated parental relationships that are present in this book and all the long-lasting impacts they have.
Jahlani is intelligent, serious, and she’s always trying to prove that she belongs in any room she walks into, especially as she’s a woman in STEM who carries all the weight of the expectations and her own self-doubt.
Elizabeth Jade Taylor is extremely talented, and The Probability of Us is her debut novel and I have to say that it was beyond anything I could have ever expected and I have to say that this book was so impressive. I am so excited to reading not only the next book in the series but the entirety of the series.
I highly recommend this debut novel in a new series. Elizabeth Jade Taylor is an up-and-coming author worth watching out for and I can’t wait to read more of her work.
Roman Hayes has a goal. Become a successful software engineer. A demanding task made even harder as a single father. With graduation looming, he resolves to do whatever it takes to get the future he wants for himself. The last thing he needs is to be distracted by lurid fantasies about his captivating, mahogany-eyed teaching assistant during lectures.
When a misunderstanding puts them at odds, the tension threatens to derail their already complicated lives. Forced to work together, they struggle to put aside their differences and prioritize their dreams. But as the semester unfolds, Jahlani wonders if she’s misjudged him. Maybe he isn't just another lackadaisical, privileged pretty boy. And Roman finds himself drawn further into her calculating stares, and the challenge of breaking down her walls. Despite having his academic fate in her hands, he can’t seem to pull away, and Jahlani can’t seem to shake the striking green of his eyes long after he’s gone.
As their resistance weakens, both must confront their pasts, their dreams, and the possibility that love— complicated, unexpected, real love—might just be the variable they’ve both been missing.
Tropes: Forbidden Romance, Single Dad, Open Door Spice, TA x Student, He Falls First, Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine, Slow Burn, Academic Romance, Tension that does not Quit, Forbidden Romance, Open Door Moments, Yearning, Graduate Teaching Assistant x Undergraduate Assistant, Complex Family Dynamics, He Falls First and Harder, Push x Pull Dynamic
The Probability of Us is the 1st book in The Improbable Love Series by Elizabeth Jade Taylor.
From the very first paragraph of the very first chapter Elizabeth Jade Taylor managed to completely enthrall me. And this is exactly how a story should start.
I found the chemistry between Roman and Jahlani to be absolutely masterful. Their first meeting was so adorable, subtle, and really very sweet. And from there their slow burn was done to absolute perfection.
We see little to no resistance on the idea of a romance between Roman and Jahlani from Jahlani, yes, we see that she’s nervous around him and at the same time she can’t help but be undeniably drawn to Roman. We can feel the tension and the yearning just jumping off the page. The resistance to the idea of a romance between Jahlani and Roman is totally behind Roman, he’s the one who’s resistant to the entire of a romantic connection between them.
All of the tropes that Elizabeth Jade Taylor used in this book were used and handled perfectly. I was a bit worried that the single-dad trope was going to dominate the entire story or the (assistant) student-teacher dynamic would dominate the storyline. But, thankfully, both of those tropes were handled carefully, thoughtfully, and they were very well executed. And I have to give Elizabeth so much credit, I loved the chapter names she gave each one of these chapters. I am so glad more Indi authors are trying to bring back chapter names.
I loved that these characters felt so real with all of their imperfections. And just like the rest of us, these characters do their best to try and better themselves.
I loved Roman. He is this warm, patient man who has this ability to love with his entire heart, but he has his own flaws. And it’s his flaws that make him feel real vs. feeling idealised. Roman is really the one who falls for Jahlani first in this story, and when he falls, he falls hard. And once he’s made his choice and realized he’s fallen for the girl, he holds nothing back in ensuring Jahlani knows what his intentions are while managing to remain incredibly patient. Most men would have given up long ago, but I think that’s one of the things that makes him so perfect for Jahlani.
My heart shattered for Jahlani. The relationship she had with her family reminded me of the relationship I have with my own family. Especially Jahlani’s emotionally detached mother, she was such a difficult woman to read. Elizabeth did such an amazing job at unpacking all the complicated parental relationships that are present in this book and all the long-lasting impacts they have.
Jahlani is intelligent, serious, and she’s always trying to prove that she belongs in any room she walks into, especially as she’s a woman in STEM who carries all the weight of the expectations and her own self-doubt.
Elizabeth Jade Taylor is extremely talented, and The Probability of Us is her debut novel and I have to say that it was beyond anything I could have ever expected and I have to say that this book was so impressive. I am so excited to reading not only the next book in the series but the entirety of the series.
I highly recommend this debut novel in a new series. Elizabeth Jade Taylor is an up-and-coming author worth watching out for and I can’t wait to read more of her work.
December 18, 2025
I first want to start off by saying I genuinely appreciate the opportunity to receive this book as an arc; I am so grateful to be one of the first few individuals to read this great debut.
First off, I want to start off by acknowledging the characters. Obviously the main ones are Jahlani and Roman. Looking at them together, I found them as good main characters. I felt there wasn’t a ton about them that made them stand out exponentially, although there was a lot about them that I thought was still really sweet and added to the overall story.
Jahlani was illustrated as a hardworking black woman who had suffered from a lack of guidance from both her parents as well as companions such as friends and relationships.The author does a really good job of showing how she is so ambitious and will go for anything that will benefit her future. I also love how after her toxic relationship with Micah, she would accept nothing below her standard. She made sure that she was treated the way she deserved which was clearly voiced.
When talking about Roman, I think I would place him as a very selfless man. Despite the numerous ways in which he was barely keeping himself and his daughter afloat, he didn’t hesitate to stop and think about everyone else in his life. I also really loved how he was such a good listener and remembered everything about Jahlani, he even remembered things that I didn’t even remember reading. Also I think this is just self explanatory but the fact that he was so dedicated to his daughter was really refreshing and allowed a new perspective of a single dad in a unique situation.
Although, with the additional characters, I kind of wish there was more. I feel like it was a lot of Jahlani and Roman and then Roman’s family and not much of anyone else. I wish she brought in her best friend or made a new friend somehow in Florida so that she had someone to confide in more, rather than it being Teryn that one time and Imani at the very beginning and at the very end.
When diving deeper into the plot line, I will say there were some things that I didn’t feel as though were needed. One of these included the fact that Roman’s daughter was sick. I felt that, even though it was played out decently well, it was almost not needed. The medical visits and her situation didn’t feel like it had a huge role in the overall idea. I think that it paints the same picture if Roman has daughter without all the medical issues; like it’s just as hard to take care of a young human, without the medical stuff. I can kind of understand that the medical situation was the main reason why the mom left, but I still think this part of the story could have been revised slightly. (This is just my opinion by the way). Also another thing that slightly bothered me was the lack of side character plots and storylines. Lots of romance books similar to this have other small character plots to follow so that the book is interesting in multiple ways.This book unfortunately didn’t have that as the side characters that were in the story barely had any significance, making their existence kind of boring. Also there was an obvious storyline that could have been there between Danica and Taylor and although it was hinted at, it definitely could have been played with more.
Lastly, just a few highlights that I had, one being the playlist at the beginning of the book. I feel like these are often overlooked and I felt the need to give the author her props for having more unique music choices, as well as including my personal favorite, Olivia Dean💗. Also going back to the original ex storyline, I’m really happy with the way in which she showed the toxic relationship rather than just story bombing us with the information throughout the novel; this way, we know what happened and why they broke up, without her having to directly say anything to the reader.
Overall, I fairly enjoyed this debut and I definitely recommend this to any reader wanting a quick read that is light hearted and cute!!
First off, I want to start off by acknowledging the characters. Obviously the main ones are Jahlani and Roman. Looking at them together, I found them as good main characters. I felt there wasn’t a ton about them that made them stand out exponentially, although there was a lot about them that I thought was still really sweet and added to the overall story.
Jahlani was illustrated as a hardworking black woman who had suffered from a lack of guidance from both her parents as well as companions such as friends and relationships.The author does a really good job of showing how she is so ambitious and will go for anything that will benefit her future. I also love how after her toxic relationship with Micah, she would accept nothing below her standard. She made sure that she was treated the way she deserved which was clearly voiced.
When talking about Roman, I think I would place him as a very selfless man. Despite the numerous ways in which he was barely keeping himself and his daughter afloat, he didn’t hesitate to stop and think about everyone else in his life. I also really loved how he was such a good listener and remembered everything about Jahlani, he even remembered things that I didn’t even remember reading. Also I think this is just self explanatory but the fact that he was so dedicated to his daughter was really refreshing and allowed a new perspective of a single dad in a unique situation.
Although, with the additional characters, I kind of wish there was more. I feel like it was a lot of Jahlani and Roman and then Roman’s family and not much of anyone else. I wish she brought in her best friend or made a new friend somehow in Florida so that she had someone to confide in more, rather than it being Teryn that one time and Imani at the very beginning and at the very end.
When diving deeper into the plot line, I will say there were some things that I didn’t feel as though were needed. One of these included the fact that Roman’s daughter was sick. I felt that, even though it was played out decently well, it was almost not needed. The medical visits and her situation didn’t feel like it had a huge role in the overall idea. I think that it paints the same picture if Roman has daughter without all the medical issues; like it’s just as hard to take care of a young human, without the medical stuff. I can kind of understand that the medical situation was the main reason why the mom left, but I still think this part of the story could have been revised slightly. (This is just my opinion by the way). Also another thing that slightly bothered me was the lack of side character plots and storylines. Lots of romance books similar to this have other small character plots to follow so that the book is interesting in multiple ways.This book unfortunately didn’t have that as the side characters that were in the story barely had any significance, making their existence kind of boring. Also there was an obvious storyline that could have been there between Danica and Taylor and although it was hinted at, it definitely could have been played with more.
Lastly, just a few highlights that I had, one being the playlist at the beginning of the book. I feel like these are often overlooked and I felt the need to give the author her props for having more unique music choices, as well as including my personal favorite, Olivia Dean💗. Also going back to the original ex storyline, I’m really happy with the way in which she showed the toxic relationship rather than just story bombing us with the information throughout the novel; this way, we know what happened and why they broke up, without her having to directly say anything to the reader.
Overall, I fairly enjoyed this debut and I definitely recommend this to any reader wanting a quick read that is light hearted and cute!!
January 28, 2026
I would give this 3.5 stars but I dont know how to do that lol.
The premise was amazing, I love a goome STEMinist book, nerdy romance is my favorite. (And the cover/ promo art was so good), but I did have a few issues. Not sure if these count as spoilers so Im gonna skip a few spaces to give you time to get out
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one thing that I've noticed in several new books are like missing scenes. As in, the next chapter/ scene seems to pick up assuming you know information that you have no way of knowing or as if its continuing a conversation that already happenning/ answering a question that was never asked. that happened a couple times and the editor really should have caught that. Also there were some weird transitions in general sometimes (mostly in the final third of the book) that I had a bit of a difficult time following. Like many have said there were a few plot holes, dropped plot lines that would have been nice to have better resolution too. But the chemistry was fun and as a fellow broken girl the pursuit of the FMC by the MMC did something for me. The kinda something that makes you want to redownload dating apps. (don't worry I didn't, but I almost did lol). But I think the thing that bothered me the most, mostly because I thought this was a POC writer based on the Avatar on the authors profile (please correct me if I am wrong, and it actually is) but some of the descriptions lead me to believe that it isn't. Mostly the many references to the main character looking "flushed," blushing, etc. is very white girl coded. Obviously we can feel flushed or head flood our bodies when embarrassed but it does not manifest the same way and that took me out of the story. Also the descriptions of her braids and how easily she could go from a bun or putting it up into a pony tail with a hair tie or it still being wet after the pool makes me think the reader has never actually had braids. Not a bad thing in and of itself, but like I said I thought it was a POC female writer writing a POC female character and was disappointed to learn this may not be the case because nuance. Anyhoo, didnt regret reading it but was a little disappointed over all.
The premise was amazing, I love a goome STEMinist book, nerdy romance is my favorite. (And the cover/ promo art was so good), but I did have a few issues. Not sure if these count as spoilers so Im gonna skip a few spaces to give you time to get out
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one thing that I've noticed in several new books are like missing scenes. As in, the next chapter/ scene seems to pick up assuming you know information that you have no way of knowing or as if its continuing a conversation that already happenning/ answering a question that was never asked. that happened a couple times and the editor really should have caught that. Also there were some weird transitions in general sometimes (mostly in the final third of the book) that I had a bit of a difficult time following. Like many have said there were a few plot holes, dropped plot lines that would have been nice to have better resolution too. But the chemistry was fun and as a fellow broken girl the pursuit of the FMC by the MMC did something for me. The kinda something that makes you want to redownload dating apps. (don't worry I didn't, but I almost did lol). But I think the thing that bothered me the most, mostly because I thought this was a POC writer based on the Avatar on the authors profile (please correct me if I am wrong, and it actually is) but some of the descriptions lead me to believe that it isn't. Mostly the many references to the main character looking "flushed," blushing, etc. is very white girl coded. Obviously we can feel flushed or head flood our bodies when embarrassed but it does not manifest the same way and that took me out of the story. Also the descriptions of her braids and how easily she could go from a bun or putting it up into a pony tail with a hair tie or it still being wet after the pool makes me think the reader has never actually had braids. Not a bad thing in and of itself, but like I said I thought it was a POC female writer writing a POC female character and was disappointed to learn this may not be the case because nuance. Anyhoo, didnt regret reading it but was a little disappointed over all.
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