One Night Only

by S.M. Love

Sometimes one night is all it takes to change everything.

Taysia didn’t plan to be here.
Not on the stage. Not under the lights. And definitely not catching the attention of the one man she swore she’d never see again.

But when she steps into Club Venus, a strip club that thrives on fantasy, Taysia isn’t looking for forever. She’s looking for a way to reclaim herself — her power, her confidence, her life.

Then he walks in.
Her past. Her mistake. Her temptation.

Now it’s a game of stolen glances, unspoken truths, and dangerous chemistry. Because when the night is over, she knows she should walk away.
But what if she doesn’t want to?

One Night Only is a steamy, fast-paced romance novella about reclaiming your power, rediscovering your desire, and what happens when the one man you shouldn’t want becomes the only one you can’t stop thinking about.

70 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 28, 2025

Reviews

[Keith Book Korner · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nice short story

It’s truly more than a story of a strip club it’s a story about far more. The Club is the back drop to so much more enjoy the read
Keith Book Korner

[Shunita O · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got this book as an ARC read and this is the first time I am reading something from this author. Baby let me tell you about this book. This book ate down, Taysia aka Tasty Ty was so relatable, what girl has not been in a situation like hers? Funny thing is, there are some women who actually turn to stripping to pay their bills, pay for school, etc. I hollered when Taysia walked into Kita’s apartment and said. You smell like garlic and ghetto. Then Kita said, you smell like bills and brokenness 🤣🤣. I believe that once Tasty Ty was born. Taysia knew she would longer struggle. Tasty Ty gave her a sense of power that she probably once had. But was stripped of when life started lifing. I feel Paris was Tasty Ty at one time. But she stopped trying to make her presence known. She felt because she was that girl. That alone was enough to stay on top. But she got the shock when she was no longer that girl. Now Dre trying to be like Uncle Clifford but was more like Dolla Bill. I feel like Miami is trap. It is something about Smoke that gives snake energy. But I could be wrong 🤷🏾‍♀️. All in all, I loved this book and It was a good read.

[The Book Ssirren · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is hot! it packed one night and a whole of spice, and sexiness in just a few pages. I ate this book up! I just wish it was longer!! I laughed, I blushed, I just loved this novella all the way around.

[Brandy Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given the opportunity to receive and ARC copy in exchange for my honest release. Taysia was forced to show a lil leg and shake a lil thigh. With only $12.47 in her bank account, she had to figure out how to pay her rent, car note, and the electric bill. With job applications constantly being declined she took advice from her Kita to dance on a strip pole for one night only. This story is a mixture of P-Valley and the players club. Club Venus gave Taysia the confidence she needed to succeed. She became viral off of a split and the rest is history. This is a really good quick read it gives messy with a side of struggle.

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review

S.M. Love hooked me from page one with this sizzling debut! “One Night Only” is a deliciously addictive novella that packs serious heat and heart into a quick read that left me desperately craving the next installment.
Taysia is the kind of heroine you can’t help but root for—resourceful, determined, and willing to do whatever it takes to survive. When a rent crisis pushes her to take the stage at Club Venus, she discovers a side of herself she never knew existed. The transformation into “Tasty Ty” is electric, and watching her confidence bloom in the glittering chaos of the club had me completely invested.
The world S.M. Love builds inside Club Venus is vibrant and intoxicating. The veteran dancers bring so much personality and sass to the story—their banter and camaraderie add layers of humor and authenticity. And Dre, the club owner caught between legacy and survival, adds an interesting layer of tension that makes you wonder how all these threads will weave together.
But let’s talk about that ending! Just when things are heating up and Taysia is finding her stride, we’re hit with a cliffhanger that left me yelling at my Kindle. What happens next? Where does Taysia go from here? I NEED answers!
Fast-paced, wickedly entertaining, and full of sparkle—this novella is a must-read for fans of spicy, character-driven romance. I can’t wait to see where this series goes!
⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 stars)

[Ashleigh · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC READER REVIEW

First, I’d like to thank the author for giving me this amazing opportunity of being able to arc read this gorgeous book.
I absolutely DEVOURED these pages! It was giving the movie hustlers with Jlo and Cardi B. Everytime Tasty got up on that stage I couldn’t help but move my body a little bit. The playlist went so great with the book! It really helped with the visualization.
At first I didn’t realize it was all in one night until she said it, at that moment I felt slow. Then I realized she’s a baddie for getting all of that done in ONE NIGHT, that’s when the title clicked for me lolll.
I really did enjoy reading this, I finished it in one sitting. I only rated it 4 stars because I was sad it wasn’t longer. This was an absolute quick read, a little something to read if you’re on a break or something!

[Sunflower · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bills due, fridge empty, and all Taysia really has is an aunt with a strong prayer life. So when her best friend Kita suggests hitting the pole for one night, she’s skeptical but desperate times call for creative solutions. One night can’t hurt… right?

That single shift at Club Venus ends up changing everything. Taysia walks in on E. No experience, no confidence, nothing but nerves, & leaves with her bills covered, her fridge blessed, business opportunities lined up, and Club Venus lowkey saved from shutting down. Not bad for a “midnight ballerina” debut🩰💰

This short novella is cute, fast-paced, and fun. Watching Taysia go from timid to full on bad b*tch energy was the best part. One night only? Maybe. Life-changing? Absolutely🫰🏾

[GetLitWithRae · Rating 4 out of 5]

One Night Only is a short, fast-paced novella that gives an inside look into the high-stakes, high-energy world of exotic dancing. It reminded me of Player’s Club and P-Valley with its mix of grit, adrenaline, and ambition.

I loved Taysia’s strength and drive. She’s resourceful, determined, and refuses to give up, even when life stacks the odds against her. Smoke, on the other hand, has me side-eyeing every promise — something tells me there’s more to him than meets the eye.

While I would’ve liked more background on Taysia’s connection with the professor, this story still delivered exactly what I wanted: a quick, captivating read full of hustle, tension, and attitude.

I received this novella as an ARC from SM Love in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Thank you so much, for this opportunity!

[Elisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!!! This book had me wanting more. Taysia was really relatable and I felt like she was trying to figure things out like we do from day to day. I haven't read anything by this author and I cannot wait for more. S.M. Love, you did your thang with this one. How long do we have to wait until the next one?

[Kiara Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super quick read , gave me players club and p valley in one !! Loved the quotes in each chapter , they definitely hit !!

[NeiNey.ThaReadinDoula · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review
Book Releases 10/28/2025

This was my first time picking up a book by S.M. Love, and whew, it was an experience. From page one, the story grabbed me and didn’t let go. Taysia was down bad...bills piling up, job prospects drying up, and the kind of financial stress that’ll have you staring at your ceiling like, “Lord, what now?” But instead of crumbling, she reinvented herself. The birth of Tasty Ty was more than a stage name- it was a survival strategy, a rebirth, and a declaration that she wasn’t going to stay stuck.

What I appreciated most was how real her journey felt. Plenty of women have had to make tough, unconventional choices just to stay afloat, and the way the book captured that struggle without sugarcoating it, hit different. The dialogue had me laughing out loud, especially the banter between Taysia and Kita. It was sharp, petty, and painfully relatable. That scene in the apartment? Comedy gold.

The club scenes were wild in the best way. Club Venus was more than just a strip joint- it was a stage where power, ego, ambition, and desperation all danced together under neon lights. Paris, Dre, Smoke...each one added their own layer of drama and tension, and not once did it feel dull.

What sealed it for me was watching Taysia transform from broke and broken to bold and unapologetic. The book gave messy, gave struggle, gave hustle, and still managed to deliver a satisfying glow-up story.

Four stars because while it was entertaining and quick, I wanted a little more depth in certain places. But overall? It’s giving grit, it’s giving grind, and it’s giving just the right amount of spice to keep you hooked.

[theebookbaddiee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was blessed to be an early reader for One Night Only and it did not disappoint!! It was a fast and easy read with the perfect amount of drama. The main character is definitely relatable making the story feel like you’re right there with her. Can’t wait for more!

[Brittany Bolin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved that this was a novella as I could sit and read it in one sitting easily. I laughed throughout the entire book and loved the drama that it entailed. The fact that it revolved around real problems people face, also made me cruise through it. If you're looking for a quick, entertaining, fun read, I definitely recommend this one.

[Harley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you seen the players club? Well this short less than 50 pages is a take on that.

It’s short-short but it was a fun read and I’m needing more!

Highly recommend

[Kayla Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

**ARC review**

my first experience reading S.M Love's work and I was not disappointed! This one is for fans of P-Valley, and lovers of fast paced, fun reads. Taking place in one night at Club Venus, we follow Taysia on a survival mission to pay her rent by any means necessary. A viral moment on stage send her rocketing towards a path she never expected to last past 4am- in the dark club, covered in glitter, Tasty Ty is born. We're left on a cliffhanger ending, which keeps you wondering what Taysia will do next, and where the hell she'll end up!

The drama between Taysia and the veteran dancers of Club Venus was a highlight for me; lots of shade and hilarious metaphors. The girls have personality to the max and aren't afraid to show it. Club owner Dre is stressed; trying to keep the lights on and keep the club in his family name. Is Taysia and her rising fame the key to his success as well? Does Taysia want to take Tasty Ty to the next level? I'm on the edge of my seat, waiting to find out!

A witty, wickedly fun novella that left me wanting more- definitely recommend!

[Shica · Rating 4 out of 5]

One Night Only was entertaining from start to finish. Short, bold, and full of flava! Taysia, drowning in bills and no job prospects in sight, she decides to take her best friend Kita’s advice and shake it fast at Club Venus for “one night only.” What she doesn’t anticipate is how that one night will completely change her life.

Taysia walks into Club Venus broke and uncertain but walks out bold, confident, and unapologetic. This novella gives strong Players Club and P-Valley energy with a mix of sensuality, hustle, survival, and just the right touch of humor.

Overall, One Night Only is a fast paced story about rediscovering your confidence and reclaiming your power when life tries to knock you down.

[Shileta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh. My. GOD! I'm in love! So high energy, as an ARC reader I can't wait to read more! The author did phenomenal with the writing. Oh my God! It was like the best thing ever. I really want to see the growth of Taysia cause she owns this story. It was all hers from the first page to the last. Definitely gave Player's Club vibes, but in the age of social media. "Make the money, Don't let it make you." ~The Players Club (1998)

[Pamela B · Rating 5 out of 5]

When you struggling but have to turn into Capitan Save a Hoe ! Ty was dealing with bills and went to strip for one night only. She didn't realize she was going into that strip club to save the day.

This is a Novella and is a quick read, the story takes you through Ty's first night in a strip club as a new dancer. Ty works on saving herself and the club. It was a good night and I'm ready to check out my neighborhood strip club.

[Crystal Demby · Rating 4 out of 5]

First read by S.M. Love
What would you do when you're down and out to keep from struggling? Ty says the hell with it... One Night can't make it any worse than what it already is. She takes on amateur night at the club and turns up. Just getting to make ends meet to pay rent and buy groceries, Ty deals with viral videos, jealous dancers, promo offers and a chance to save the club. She's showing her ass literally and figuratively.... what started out as One Night Only turn into something more?

[Stinaaaa · Rating 5 out of 5]

What if you found you found yourself in a bind and needed money FAST?! After giving it much thought, you decided what's the worst that could happen. All you needed was one shot. For Taysia this was sadly her reality, fortunately for her, it was a HIT. Coming in shaking things up was not her forte, however she was all in and it may have landed her some new opportunities along the way.

[L · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was completely invested in Ty! Her determination pulled me right in, and I was rooting for her every step of the way, knowing how it feels to push through and get the job done no matter what it takes. The story captures that drive for survival and purpose so well. While the characters drew me in, I did find myself wanting a bit more depth and detail to fully bring the world to life. Still, Ty’s journey kept me turning the pages!

[SCBookGal843 · Rating 4 out of 5]

When your back is against the wall, sometimes you just have to handle business. Push the fear aside and make it happen. You didn’t even realize you’d be good at it—so good you were making it rain for real. And of course, the haters came right along with it.
But now you’re too good at what you do, and you’re standing at a crossroads. So the real question is… what happens next?

[darrian sade · Rating 3 out of 5]

ty’s character is what kept me thru this one. she was super relatable and i rooted for her thru the whole thing but idk. it’s only like 60 pages and it took me 8 days to read it? like it was interesting and a great set up for a story but it just didn’t connect for me like something was missing. i didn’t hate it or anything but i just needed something more from it.

[Tia Morgan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Received this Arc and whoa it was good short and fast pace went from broke to paid in less than 24 hours first read of this author.

[Sistaharlem · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not what I initially thought

By the cover, I thought this was a erotic novella. This was nothing like it. This was a novella of self-discovery along with survival of the fittest.

[Readingizmytherapy · Rating 4 out of 5]

fast

The book is a intro to what’s to come. With anything jealous girls wil always step up if they think you trying to take their spot and that’s no different here.

[Zaria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novella was short and good, I read a comment about it not having depth but that’s the point of a novella. Anyways it was good, funny, realistic and fast paced.

[Laurenlovesstories · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was 🔥🔥🔥🔥
It didn’t FEEL like one night!! A woman can take back her power while making it rain. This was sexy, gritty, and RAW! 👏🏾

[Lashawna Harris · Rating 3 out of 5]

a true hustlers story

[AJ. · Rating 5 out of 5]

just finished this novella anddd baby! S.M. Love you did that!! attitude & clapbacks were on pointtt 🤏🏼 loved the music & quotes from PValley. Taysia got meeee wanting to
catch a dance😮‍💨