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Invisible Bars
Imagine if the most broken girl in the room had the most dangerous man in the city wrapped around her finger.
Naji Ali is a former model living with Tourette syndrome, a sharp tongue, and a heart stitched together with abandonment, betrayal, and survival. She’s introverted, guarded, and quiet by choice. She's a woman who learned early that silence is safer than trust. She’s used to being stared at, misunderstood, and hiding in plain sight. But fate doesn’t ask for permission to interrupt your peaceful life; it just shows up and shifts everything.
Imanio Kors is a savage dressed in strategy. To the world, he’s an ununreadable, polished grumpy billionaire CEO, but behind the tailored suits and cold silence lies something far more dangerous.
When a twisted chain of events forces their worlds to collide, Naji and Imanio find themselves in a marriage of convenience wrapped in secrecy and guarded devotion. The more she learns about the man behind the empire, and the more he falls for the girl with the unfiltered mouth and haunted eyes, the less either of them can pretend this is just survival.
Sometimes love doesn’t come in soft landings; sometimes it starts the moment you see something you were never supposed to survive.
Naji Ali is a former model living with Tourette syndrome, a sharp tongue, and a heart stitched together with abandonment, betrayal, and survival. She’s introverted, guarded, and quiet by choice. She's a woman who learned early that silence is safer than trust. She’s used to being stared at, misunderstood, and hiding in plain sight. But fate doesn’t ask for permission to interrupt your peaceful life; it just shows up and shifts everything.
Imanio Kors is a savage dressed in strategy. To the world, he’s an ununreadable, polished grumpy billionaire CEO, but behind the tailored suits and cold silence lies something far more dangerous.
When a twisted chain of events forces their worlds to collide, Naji and Imanio find themselves in a marriage of convenience wrapped in secrecy and guarded devotion. The more she learns about the man behind the empire, and the more he falls for the girl with the unfiltered mouth and haunted eyes, the less either of them can pretend this is just survival.
Sometimes love doesn’t come in soft landings; sometimes it starts the moment you see something you were never supposed to survive.
- GenresRomance
806 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2025
467 people are currently reading
419 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
October 18, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ I enjoyed the depiction of Tourette syndrome. This was a truly unique story. I enjoyed the slow burn because it made Naji and Imanio's relationship feel natural and realistic. The representation of disability was consistent throughout the story, and it added to the story rather than serving as background information for the characters.
December 5, 2025
Honest review
I'll give credit where it's due. The author seemed to have done a great deal of research on this subject and did a great job bringing awareness to Naji's disability. The secondary characters were memorable, somewhat relatable, and the overall storyline was unique.
However I almost did not finish. Took me 5 days to push through. Ughhhh
There was never a need for almost 800 words. Some scenes were too drawn out and seemed like page fillers. All 5 interviews detailed, 3 white dresses tried on in detail, and random unnecessary dialog from the photographer and makeup guy. Just a few examples !
Imanio/ Gatez was not written well. He was all over the place. The author did not do well with making me believe he was this feared killer. He was tooo sloppy.
It took me along time to feel Imanio's love for Naji. He didn't make me swoon or feel like a typical book bae. There was no spark between them. The few secks scenes were good but nothing spectacular to draw me to them as a couple.
I saw the rating and ran to read this. Sadly I was disappointed 😞
3 stars 🌟 for me.
I'll give credit where it's due. The author seemed to have done a great deal of research on this subject and did a great job bringing awareness to Naji's disability. The secondary characters were memorable, somewhat relatable, and the overall storyline was unique.
However I almost did not finish. Took me 5 days to push through. Ughhhh
There was never a need for almost 800 words. Some scenes were too drawn out and seemed like page fillers. All 5 interviews detailed, 3 white dresses tried on in detail, and random unnecessary dialog from the photographer and makeup guy. Just a few examples !
Imanio/ Gatez was not written well. He was all over the place. The author did not do well with making me believe he was this feared killer. He was tooo sloppy.
It took me along time to feel Imanio's love for Naji. He didn't make me swoon or feel like a typical book bae. There was no spark between them. The few secks scenes were good but nothing spectacular to draw me to them as a couple.
I saw the rating and ran to read this. Sadly I was disappointed 😞
3 stars 🌟 for me.
December 1, 2025
remarkably good story!
4.5✨I’ve read quite a few Alecia J books, and Invisible Bars is hands down her best work and my favorite. I loved the attention to detail, the slow burn, the thought provoking messages, and the overall feel of the story. Who knew this take on a marriage of convenience would turn out this way, because I sure didn’t know what to expect. But I loved these characters! The way Imanio protected Naji with his entire being, was truly amazing. He didn’t try to change who she was and I respected that. This story serves as a reminder that kindness costs nothing. Great job!
4.5✨I’ve read quite a few Alecia J books, and Invisible Bars is hands down her best work and my favorite. I loved the attention to detail, the slow burn, the thought provoking messages, and the overall feel of the story. Who knew this take on a marriage of convenience would turn out this way, because I sure didn’t know what to expect. But I loved these characters! The way Imanio protected Naji with his entire being, was truly amazing. He didn’t try to change who she was and I respected that. This story serves as a reminder that kindness costs nothing. Great job!
January 16, 2026
3.5🌟 I really appreciated the representation of Tourette Syndrome and temporary paralysis in this story.
The humor had me laughing so hard it felt almost illegal at times. Chi and Dess were the perfect comedic relief, balancing out grumpy Imanio and all of the messy situations.
While the book was engaging and had plenty of substance, some chapters felt a bit long and dragged. I would’ve loved more development of the Imanio/Gatez as there were noticeable gaps in Gatez’s persona that left me wanting more.
Overall it was a solid read. Naji was a sweetheart and truly deserved all the kindness and grace.
The humor had me laughing so hard it felt almost illegal at times. Chi and Dess were the perfect comedic relief, balancing out grumpy Imanio and all of the messy situations.
While the book was engaging and had plenty of substance, some chapters felt a bit long and dragged. I would’ve loved more development of the Imanio/Gatez as there were noticeable gaps in Gatez’s persona that left me wanting more.
Overall it was a solid read. Naji was a sweetheart and truly deserved all the kindness and grace.
October 25, 2025
This is my first book by this author and I’m a fan. The disabilities were handled with humility and humor. This book was filled with drama but it also ended with lessons to think about it. It’s a slow burn but you get to know the couple and can’t help but to root for them even with their unconventional introduction.
Dessign and Chi were hilarious. I would love a book from their POV’s. I’m also curious about Giselle’s journey after everything and Naji’s family’s story continuing from where the book left off from the sister’s perspective.
Dessign and Chi were hilarious. I would love a book from their POV’s. I’m also curious about Giselle’s journey after everything and Naji’s family’s story continuing from where the book left off from the sister’s perspective.
November 29, 2025
This book is easily now in my Top 5 favorite books of all times! This book was so damn beautiful! You never know how much you need to heal until someone else can touch and heal the parts of you that were still bleeding! I don’t want to spoil this book so I’m gonna leave this review just like this! If you’re taken aback by the amount of pages, don’t! This book is worth every last one of the pages!!!
January 12, 2026
Loved this story! It reminds us that not all prisons are visible, some are emotional, rooted in trauma, fear, and self-worth. Alecia J. delivers a powerful, realistic narrative that challenges you to examine your own invisible bars while still offering hope for healing. This was my first read by this author, and I enjoyed every bit of it.
December 6, 2025
Loved it
This was beautifully written. It's hilarious as well. Glitchy got me. Had me dying laughing. The caring and protective way that Imanio loved Nandi was so beautiful. Proof that disabilities should never stop love. Everyone deserves love. I loved it!!!!
This was beautifully written. It's hilarious as well. Glitchy got me. Had me dying laughing. The caring and protective way that Imanio loved Nandi was so beautiful. Proof that disabilities should never stop love. Everyone deserves love. I loved it!!!!
October 20, 2025
“Good. That means I get to break you in properly; it’ll be like your first time for real. I’ll fuck the memory of that nigga clean out of you and replace it with mine. That nigga just borrowed you; I’m ’bout to own it.”
January 19, 2026
WOW! A Story To Remember
So, I was supposed to read this with a few of the ladies in my bookclub back in December and I didn’t have it in me to read a thickie at the end of the year, I started this over the weekend and was texting them like why didn’t yall make me start this with yall 😂 OMG, this story was so freaking good!
(First Alecia J book certainly not my last one)! Highly recommended 💖
So, I was supposed to read this with a few of the ladies in my bookclub back in December and I didn’t have it in me to read a thickie at the end of the year, I started this over the weekend and was texting them like why didn’t yall make me start this with yall 😂 OMG, this story was so freaking good!
(First Alecia J book certainly not my last one)! Highly recommended 💖
November 7, 2025
One thing I can always count on when reading a book by Alecia J is learning about a different disability. This time, she shed light on Tourette’s syndrome, which is one of the most underrated disabilities, in my opinion. Even though Naji had a hard time in life, she still made room for others. I found myself laughing at the random outbursts that always came at the worst moments. The way Imanio(Gatez) loved on Naji unapologetically despite what others thought about her is the definition of a man’s man. The mom definitely learned her lesson the hard way! I wanted to feel bad for her, but I just couldn’t. She made her bed and had to lie in it. I’m already excited for Chi and Design’s story, I just know it’s going to be a fun and wild read.
November 26, 2025
So 763 pages closed out on this read. Even with that page count the read goes by quickly. There is a good flow. Actually surprised me because I went in thinking it was a sweet contemporary slow burn romance with a grumpy MMC. That...that..wasn't quite the book 😄. But I'm not mad at it, I'm not mad it came with some Dark Romance roots told in Black folks bidness. It's definitely still a slow burn but the main characters met fairly soon all things considered and then we get to watch them both level up based on affirmation and love. But this is not a Contemporary Romance read the characters are morally gray. The MMC is violent, their is blood, gore, and death. There are some good story twists and things will come back full circle. Most of all the disability rep for me was 👌🏾🤌🏾
Tropes:
🤟🏾 Fairytale-ism
🤟🏾 disability rep × 2
🤟🏾 I will murk or destroy anybody who comes at mine
🤟🏾 I don't play behind her
🤟🏾Karma
🤟🏾Loving your voice
🤟🏾Grumpy× Please don't kill me
Tropes:
🤟🏾 Fairytale-ism
🤟🏾 disability rep × 2
🤟🏾 I will murk or destroy anybody who comes at mine
🤟🏾 I don't play behind her
🤟🏾Karma
🤟🏾Loving your voice
🤟🏾Grumpy× Please don't kill me
October 27, 2025
This book was a cute read. All 700+ pages.
I don’t think it needed to be 700+ pages tho.
It’s said to be a slow burn but I’ve read slow burns & idk I felt like the moment he met her, he fell in like/love with her. He was immediately intrigued/smitten with her.
A slow burn to me is when the MMC is not immediately taken/attracted to the MFC. He was mean to every woman he came across but the moment he met her he automatically was treating her differently/ being nice to her.
Naji I think 3 year run as a model should have made the cut being told instead of fast forwarding past it. That key moment where her career ended on the run way was an important life moment for her.
The fact that we didn’t see those 3 years of her life took away from lots of moments we had in the story. For example, the parts with Ambria ( I think that’s how you spell her name) it didn’t hit for me as a reader and the other part when she saw the other model who played a part in ruining her modeling career who name I can’t remember because she was only mentioned that 1 time didn’t hit for me at all because we the readers don’t know her.
Also because we didn’t get those years of her modeling, she don’t come off as a celebrity. So when Dess called her the famaous Naji and told us about her career, it didn’t flow.
Also him being a billionaire while also being a part time killer, is not realistic. No matter how much you try to word it.
That aside,
This book had no reason being this long & that’s coming from somebody who loves reading long chapter books.
Too many moments/scenes were drawn out for no reason. Like why the heck were they having meaningless conversation for 3 pages straight??
Also certain “funny” parts of the story felt forced like it didn’t flow. Some did, some didn’t. I did not bust out laughing at all through out the whole book. I probably chuckled like one time & trust me I’ve read books that be having me laughing.
I don’t think it needed to be 700+ pages tho.
It’s said to be a slow burn but I’ve read slow burns & idk I felt like the moment he met her, he fell in like/love with her. He was immediately intrigued/smitten with her.
A slow burn to me is when the MMC is not immediately taken/attracted to the MFC. He was mean to every woman he came across but the moment he met her he automatically was treating her differently/ being nice to her.
Naji I think 3 year run as a model should have made the cut being told instead of fast forwarding past it. That key moment where her career ended on the run way was an important life moment for her.
The fact that we didn’t see those 3 years of her life took away from lots of moments we had in the story. For example, the parts with Ambria ( I think that’s how you spell her name) it didn’t hit for me as a reader and the other part when she saw the other model who played a part in ruining her modeling career who name I can’t remember because she was only mentioned that 1 time didn’t hit for me at all because we the readers don’t know her.
Also because we didn’t get those years of her modeling, she don’t come off as a celebrity. So when Dess called her the famaous Naji and told us about her career, it didn’t flow.
Also him being a billionaire while also being a part time killer, is not realistic. No matter how much you try to word it.
That aside,
This book had no reason being this long & that’s coming from somebody who loves reading long chapter books.
Too many moments/scenes were drawn out for no reason. Like why the heck were they having meaningless conversation for 3 pages straight??
Also certain “funny” parts of the story felt forced like it didn’t flow. Some did, some didn’t. I did not bust out laughing at all through out the whole book. I probably chuckled like one time & trust me I’ve read books that be having me laughing.
October 15, 2025
10s across the board 10S ACROSS THE MF BOARDDDDD
First I just want to say this is the longest book I’ve read that kept my attention from start to finish. I saw a little review on this book on TikTok and when I went to kindle and saw how many pages it had I was like… hmm no. Cause anything more than 400 pages always felt extra to me. But something told me just give it a chance and I’m soooo glad I did.
I started this book around 10 in the morning and I’m currently writing this review at 3am… like let’s just start there.
I almost stopped reading this book when I realized what they were going to do to Blu BUT FUCKKKKKK that nigga dead ass. Like I’m so mad cause he fooled me big time. Now let’s go character to character
Starting off with Naji, first of all that name is so cute to me. But oh babyyyyyy I loved her downnnn. She was so funny and just so strong. I love how her Tourette’s syndrome didn’t magically disappear, I think that’s what a lot of authors tend to do, they’ll give their characters some type of neurological disorder and they’ll somehow be cured from it. No not with her, I loved how it showed up in her every day life even when things got spicy… she was so strong and such a lover girl. I love when they don’t fight their feelings. I have absolutely no notes for her. She was so lovable
Then we have Imanio, again another lovable character. The way he loved Naji outloud was so beautiful to me, he never gave people the thought that he was once ashamed of Naji and I loved that bad. The way he loved her outloud and made it known if you disrespect her there’s going to be issues and he stood behind that. The coffee shop, Aaliyah, Giselle they wasn’t fucking with his wife. OMGGGG and the speeches he was giving to his mother about his wife… love love love. When he said as soon as he married Naji his loyalty was with her thank yaaaaaaa. I fear that’s something every parent should hear. Again no notes what’s so ever, his loyalty to his wife, family, this old hood. He never looked down on them even when he made it out. I love that and what he did for his main cook (sorry yall I forgot that lady’s name) and her son had me tearing uppppp.
OKAYYYY these next two might’ve low key stolen the show. And that’s Chi and Dess… first of all I love a grumpy man but somethinggggg about a funny one does it every time for me. From the beginning Chi had me fucking dying. He was exactly what this book needed, he was hilarious and loyal to the bone. He’s a friend I think every one should experience in life. Dess was that girl through and through. The way she hyped up Naji in every scene they were in. Idk if there’s a book on them but ima check after and if there is ima eat that shit up too. Like they were so hilarious I just cannot.
Cute little mentions: love mama rose, love auntie. Girl fuckkkkk Naji’s parents idc. FUCKKKKKKKKKKKK Giselle I’m glad my nigga Robert (that’s the daddy’s name right) got out and left her broke I have no sympathy for her. Eww.
Finishing thoughts tho. Although this book was damn near 800 pages and my eyes are burning from tiredness I’m so glad I read this book. It was so light, the drama was so low and barely drama between the main characters which I loveeeee. I can write way more than this but I’m not gonna compete with the book and write a novel just know 10/10 fr.
First I just want to say this is the longest book I’ve read that kept my attention from start to finish. I saw a little review on this book on TikTok and when I went to kindle and saw how many pages it had I was like… hmm no. Cause anything more than 400 pages always felt extra to me. But something told me just give it a chance and I’m soooo glad I did.
I started this book around 10 in the morning and I’m currently writing this review at 3am… like let’s just start there.
I almost stopped reading this book when I realized what they were going to do to Blu BUT FUCKKKKKK that nigga dead ass. Like I’m so mad cause he fooled me big time. Now let’s go character to character
Starting off with Naji, first of all that name is so cute to me. But oh babyyyyyy I loved her downnnn. She was so funny and just so strong. I love how her Tourette’s syndrome didn’t magically disappear, I think that’s what a lot of authors tend to do, they’ll give their characters some type of neurological disorder and they’ll somehow be cured from it. No not with her, I loved how it showed up in her every day life even when things got spicy… she was so strong and such a lover girl. I love when they don’t fight their feelings. I have absolutely no notes for her. She was so lovable
Then we have Imanio, again another lovable character. The way he loved Naji outloud was so beautiful to me, he never gave people the thought that he was once ashamed of Naji and I loved that bad. The way he loved her outloud and made it known if you disrespect her there’s going to be issues and he stood behind that. The coffee shop, Aaliyah, Giselle they wasn’t fucking with his wife. OMGGGG and the speeches he was giving to his mother about his wife… love love love. When he said as soon as he married Naji his loyalty was with her thank yaaaaaaa. I fear that’s something every parent should hear. Again no notes what’s so ever, his loyalty to his wife, family, this old hood. He never looked down on them even when he made it out. I love that and what he did for his main cook (sorry yall I forgot that lady’s name) and her son had me tearing uppppp.
OKAYYYY these next two might’ve low key stolen the show. And that’s Chi and Dess… first of all I love a grumpy man but somethinggggg about a funny one does it every time for me. From the beginning Chi had me fucking dying. He was exactly what this book needed, he was hilarious and loyal to the bone. He’s a friend I think every one should experience in life. Dess was that girl through and through. The way she hyped up Naji in every scene they were in. Idk if there’s a book on them but ima check after and if there is ima eat that shit up too. Like they were so hilarious I just cannot.
Cute little mentions: love mama rose, love auntie. Girl fuckkkkk Naji’s parents idc. FUCKKKKKKKKKKKK Giselle I’m glad my nigga Robert (that’s the daddy’s name right) got out and left her broke I have no sympathy for her. Eww.
Finishing thoughts tho. Although this book was damn near 800 pages and my eyes are burning from tiredness I’m so glad I read this book. It was so light, the drama was so low and barely drama between the main characters which I loveeeee. I can write way more than this but I’m not gonna compete with the book and write a novel just know 10/10 fr.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 25, 2025
Love a good grumpy/sunshine + forced proximity + marriage of convenience. This was a pretty decent read. Naji was a passive participant in her life, buried under trauma and shame about her condition until Imanio came and disrupted her world. They didn’t take to each other initially but we got a nice slow burn to their relationship. I love that he quickly became the “LOOK AT MY WIFE WRONG AND YOU DIE” kinda MMC. Naji needed that care and protection. I loved the disability rep both with her Tourette’s and a character in a wheelchair.
I will say though that I felt every bit of these 800 pages. I can see the authors method, to give us a deep look into who these characters. But it was just too much for me. And at about 500 pages in I really just wanted the story to be done. Also the book was heavy in…I don’t know how to classify it…imagery? similes? metaphors? I don’t know but the dialogue and flow sometimes felt almost poetic and enhanced. Not normal conversation. I wish I could explain it better.
I will say though that I felt every bit of these 800 pages. I can see the authors method, to give us a deep look into who these characters. But it was just too much for me. And at about 500 pages in I really just wanted the story to be done. Also the book was heavy in…I don’t know how to classify it…imagery? similes? metaphors? I don’t know but the dialogue and flow sometimes felt almost poetic and enhanced. Not normal conversation. I wish I could explain it better.
December 26, 2025
Okay so 700 pages. Why. This could have been 2, smaller books. Also, could have used another pass from an editor.
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This book was a slow burn, which I usually don’t like, but this story/plot was so intriguing that I didn’t miss the lack of spice or the meager amounts sprinkled within.
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Naji is a likeable FMC. Some of her tics were completely outrageous, but I also don’t know much about Tourette so I can’t say how accurate they are. It is, however, clear that the author did extensive research into the subject with the way it was explained to various characters.
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Imanio…that guy. He has this 180 turn after a convo with his dad, but, in my opinion, he doesn’t really have enough explanation of what made him want to be a softer person for Naji. It’s admirable that he feels the need to protect her and care for her…but what else?
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This book was a slow burn, which I usually don’t like, but this story/plot was so intriguing that I didn’t miss the lack of spice or the meager amounts sprinkled within.
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Naji is a likeable FMC. Some of her tics were completely outrageous, but I also don’t know much about Tourette so I can’t say how accurate they are. It is, however, clear that the author did extensive research into the subject with the way it was explained to various characters.
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Imanio…that guy. He has this 180 turn after a convo with his dad, but, in my opinion, he doesn’t really have enough explanation of what made him want to be a softer person for Naji. It’s admirable that he feels the need to protect her and care for her…but what else?
January 16, 2026
4.5 ⭐️. Chile this was a long one. Darn near 800 pages but ima stick beside her cuz I was entertained. This is a kidnapping trope which is the main reason I picked it up. Opposites attract. I normally read books where a mc is disabled, but Tourette’s was new for me. I don’t know anyone personally with the condition but I believe it shines some light on the possible difficulties people with this condition may face. There’s also a comedic spin that helps lighten the load. The best thing was Imanio did not play bout Naji. Even though he’s brooding and stand offish to most people, his first reaction to Naji was so accepting. I enjoyed this. There’s definitely other drama going on. Giselle was such a headache and she right where she needs to be. Loved Chi and Dessign. Would love to read more about them. I don’t wanna give away too much so yall just get into it.
December 30, 2025
I was really generous with my rating because while the book was somewhat enjoyable, it did not need to be 800+ pages long.
I appreciated the representation of main female characters living with disabilities (physical disability and a neurological condition) and I usually enjoy a billionaire arranged marriage romance trope. However, there were scenes where the dialogue was drawn out and unnecessary. I also didn’t find the main male character’s “underworld” identity to be believable. It was trying a little too hard. Some of the scenes were too fictional and unrealistic for me. Overall, it was an okay read but I wouldn’t recommend the book to anyone.
I appreciated the representation of main female characters living with disabilities (physical disability and a neurological condition) and I usually enjoy a billionaire arranged marriage romance trope. However, there were scenes where the dialogue was drawn out and unnecessary. I also didn’t find the main male character’s “underworld” identity to be believable. It was trying a little too hard. Some of the scenes were too fictional and unrealistic for me. Overall, it was an okay read but I wouldn’t recommend the book to anyone.
January 18, 2026
AHHH Loved This!!!
This book was funny, real, and had me ready to fight a few fictional characters! Who would’ve thought making someone pay up would blossom into something so unexpected? All I know is that I need someone that’ll go hard for me, but also be tender about me like Imanio or Chi 🤣
Forever 🖕🏽 Giselle. She made it to my first character hit list 😤. Naji’s parents are trash too.
This is the first book I read by Alecia J., but not my last!!!
This book was funny, real, and had me ready to fight a few fictional characters! Who would’ve thought making someone pay up would blossom into something so unexpected? All I know is that I need someone that’ll go hard for me, but also be tender about me like Imanio or Chi 🤣
Forever 🖕🏽 Giselle. She made it to my first character hit list 😤. Naji’s parents are trash too.
This is the first book I read by Alecia J., but not my last!!!
January 14, 2026
Favvv
Love love love this book. Ate this up in a day. But that Giselle I could have strangled through the pages but karma always gets the last laugh. Look forward to a spin off
Love love love this book. Ate this up in a day. But that Giselle I could have strangled through the pages but karma always gets the last laugh. Look forward to a spin off
November 6, 2025
This is now my favorite boook of the year but I’m gonna read it again next year and say the same thing.
It was:
Exciting
Funnny
Emotional
Spicy
Loving
And really gives you teachable moments
I loved this books soo much soooo much thank youuu!!
It was:
Exciting
Funnny
Emotional
Spicy
Loving
And really gives you teachable moments
I loved this books soo much soooo much thank youuu!!
December 9, 2025
Thoroughly enjoyed it. Very dope to read a romance with an FMC dealing with Tourettes. Author handled it with care. A slow burn and a rewarding one.
December 2, 2025
This was a magical enchanting read that delved into the lack of empathy surrounding this world. The characters were fleshed out and the book was meaty, my favorite type of entanglement.
5 stars
5 stars
January 1, 2026
There was no way that I should've been reading this book at work. Baby this was funny shit and I couldn't control myself. I love how Alecia took this widely misunderstood disorder and made us fall in love with this character. I love how she took Naiji and Imanio and showed that in disfunction love can bloom and it took Naiji for Imanio to truly belong.
October 30, 2025
Imanio and Naji, When Love Speaks to You
This book was amazing!!!…I love me a slow burn and this book did not miss!!!…There was soooo many things that were touched upon that made me cry and laugh loud, long and hard!!!…
Giselle was that one character that found fault in everything and everyone but herself and she truly needed to be humbled and I was glad she was!!!…
Dessign had such an adorable personality and I loved the way she went into protect mode for Naji and encouraged her constantly to stand up for herself!!!…
Mama Rose was an angel walking amongst the living and she made sure to stand on business, support when needed, encouraging without judgement and corrected the mess where needed!!!…
Chi was the drop of humor that was needed to lighten the book, because there were times I wanted to holler or simply throw my kindle!!!…
I loved that when moments were heavy, he sprinkled something for a giggle, but kept it serious!!!…
Imanio was the definition of, if the right person is in your life, you can change and although Naji was there not at her own will in the beginning, the change in him was obvious!!!…
He made sure Naji felt safe, made sure that ppl seen her and not just her disability!!!…He made sure that he studied her and called her out when he knew she was playing!!!…He fell in love with a woman he thought would turn on him and he became her safe place!!!…He made her feel that living out loud is okay, because her disability did not define her, she defined her and her disability!!!…
Naji was such a kindred spirit and I loved her and her wholesome personality!!!…She was so gentle, but hidden!!!…The confidence that continues to be seen in here after she opened herself up to Imanio and I loved all her interactions with Chi, especially their smoke session!!!…
Grandma raise an amazing little girl to a woman and left her with a lot of gems to help through this life without her!!!…The bear had me in tears!!!…Some of her verbal ticks were truly on point and hilarious!!!…
I’m going to miss these characters and this is probably one of the best books I’ve read this year Ana I’ve read a lot of them, but this one will stand out for a time to come!!!…
This book was amazing!!!…I love me a slow burn and this book did not miss!!!…There was soooo many things that were touched upon that made me cry and laugh loud, long and hard!!!…
Giselle was that one character that found fault in everything and everyone but herself and she truly needed to be humbled and I was glad she was!!!…
Dessign had such an adorable personality and I loved the way she went into protect mode for Naji and encouraged her constantly to stand up for herself!!!…
Mama Rose was an angel walking amongst the living and she made sure to stand on business, support when needed, encouraging without judgement and corrected the mess where needed!!!…
Chi was the drop of humor that was needed to lighten the book, because there were times I wanted to holler or simply throw my kindle!!!…
I loved that when moments were heavy, he sprinkled something for a giggle, but kept it serious!!!…
Imanio was the definition of, if the right person is in your life, you can change and although Naji was there not at her own will in the beginning, the change in him was obvious!!!…
He made sure Naji felt safe, made sure that ppl seen her and not just her disability!!!…He made sure that he studied her and called her out when he knew she was playing!!!…He fell in love with a woman he thought would turn on him and he became her safe place!!!…He made her feel that living out loud is okay, because her disability did not define her, she defined her and her disability!!!…
Naji was such a kindred spirit and I loved her and her wholesome personality!!!…She was so gentle, but hidden!!!…The confidence that continues to be seen in here after she opened herself up to Imanio and I loved all her interactions with Chi, especially their smoke session!!!…
Grandma raise an amazing little girl to a woman and left her with a lot of gems to help through this life without her!!!…The bear had me in tears!!!…Some of her verbal ticks were truly on point and hilarious!!!…
I’m going to miss these characters and this is probably one of the best books I’ve read this year Ana I’ve read a lot of them, but this one will stand out for a time to come!!!…
January 12, 2026
Tourette’s: a different perspective
After reading this book, I feel like I have a little more knowledge and perspective of Tourette’s Syndrome. Naiji, the FMC is a beautiful model dealing with Tourette’s as a popular fashion runway model, until a jealous co-worker sabotages her meds, causing an abrupt attack on the runway. One day she was the “it” girl and the next day, she was shone from the fashion modeling industry altogether. Without the comfort of her grandmother, who had raised her and been deceased, she had to navigate her life after this tragedy and silencing herself. She ended up being in the wrong place at the wrong time and saw something she shouldn’t have seen. However in retrospect it may have been the right place at the right time. Armanio, the MMC is a successful attractive billionaire businessman who also has a dark side. He’s cold to the outside world and very calculated. Naiji witnessed that dark side and she was captured and eventually brought out a softer side of him that he didn’t know he needed. His sister Dessign had been in a horrible accident leaving her paralyzed and in a wheelchair. Thru her journey in rehabbing she found love with Chi, Armanio’s best friend. They were both crazy and funny. Their mom, Giselle was a trip, as money had changed her into a heartless snob. She was humbled in the worst way. This was a slow burn and I enjoyed it and also learned about tics, outbursts and much more dealing with Tourette’s than I had prior to reading. There were some heartfelt and hilarious moments, especially with Naiji’s outbursts and also Chi and Dess. Glad I chose something different from what I’d been reading.
After reading this book, I feel like I have a little more knowledge and perspective of Tourette’s Syndrome. Naiji, the FMC is a beautiful model dealing with Tourette’s as a popular fashion runway model, until a jealous co-worker sabotages her meds, causing an abrupt attack on the runway. One day she was the “it” girl and the next day, she was shone from the fashion modeling industry altogether. Without the comfort of her grandmother, who had raised her and been deceased, she had to navigate her life after this tragedy and silencing herself. She ended up being in the wrong place at the wrong time and saw something she shouldn’t have seen. However in retrospect it may have been the right place at the right time. Armanio, the MMC is a successful attractive billionaire businessman who also has a dark side. He’s cold to the outside world and very calculated. Naiji witnessed that dark side and she was captured and eventually brought out a softer side of him that he didn’t know he needed. His sister Dessign had been in a horrible accident leaving her paralyzed and in a wheelchair. Thru her journey in rehabbing she found love with Chi, Armanio’s best friend. They were both crazy and funny. Their mom, Giselle was a trip, as money had changed her into a heartless snob. She was humbled in the worst way. This was a slow burn and I enjoyed it and also learned about tics, outbursts and much more dealing with Tourette’s than I had prior to reading. There were some heartfelt and hilarious moments, especially with Naiji’s outbursts and also Chi and Dess. Glad I chose something different from what I’d been reading.
November 1, 2025
I loved the representation in this book…
But there’s no reason this book was nearly 800 pages. It’s a good story filled with forced proximity, lil smidgen of kidnapping, forced marriage, mc’s finding themselves etc. but let’s be real… a billionaire who’s face is everywhere, always in the blogs etc is risking his life, fortune and freedom in his free time to murk people over measly $90k debts? Please be for real. If he was this Robin Hood vigilante, he would’ve handled Blu years ago when he found out he was a trafficker. It’s giving B-Rad from Malibu’s Most Wanted. The biracial billionaire who grew up in the hood and now has legit funds now wants to cosplay as a gangster cause he’s didn’t like being called pretty boy. So he was a bonafide
a-hole cause of identity and momma issues. And don’t get me started on the scene where they made Aaliyah do what she did… and during a live stream no less.
Also, I get mama rose wanting to stay in the hood and not accept too much money from him, but why they let auntie Renee struggle? Every time you look up she’s dry begging for her student loans or something to get paid yet Naji (or Nija since it kept changing) renovates a home for the parents that abandoned her.
Anyways, again the book was good- the representation for handicap-able people was chef’s kiss but this story should’ve wrapped up in 400 pages max.
But there’s no reason this book was nearly 800 pages. It’s a good story filled with forced proximity, lil smidgen of kidnapping, forced marriage, mc’s finding themselves etc. but let’s be real… a billionaire who’s face is everywhere, always in the blogs etc is risking his life, fortune and freedom in his free time to murk people over measly $90k debts? Please be for real. If he was this Robin Hood vigilante, he would’ve handled Blu years ago when he found out he was a trafficker. It’s giving B-Rad from Malibu’s Most Wanted. The biracial billionaire who grew up in the hood and now has legit funds now wants to cosplay as a gangster cause he’s didn’t like being called pretty boy. So he was a bonafide
a-hole cause of identity and momma issues. And don’t get me started on the scene where they made Aaliyah do what she did… and during a live stream no less.
Also, I get mama rose wanting to stay in the hood and not accept too much money from him, but why they let auntie Renee struggle? Every time you look up she’s dry begging for her student loans or something to get paid yet Naji (or Nija since it kept changing) renovates a home for the parents that abandoned her.
Anyways, again the book was good- the representation for handicap-able people was chef’s kiss but this story should’ve wrapped up in 400 pages max.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 6, 2026
4.5⭐️ You know when people ask what book you wish you could read for the first time again? Invisible Bars is absolutely on that list!
It’s a massive nearly 800 pages, packed with seriously laugh-out-loud humor and tons of compassion for people who aren't always treated like they are fully human. This was my first read by Alecia J, and you can tell she poured her whole soul into it—she even confessed she almost threw the novel away.
Honestly, you can feel that struggle a little; there are sections that ramble, get preachy, or needed some editing. But putting that aside, her characters are fantastic, constantly dropping profound wisdom and love, bar after bar after bar! The author has so much to say about life, its unfairness, and its redemption.
And she must be a comedian! Between the main character's outbursts, Chi's chill homie vibe, Dess's sarcasm, and the other side characters, she perfectly captures the authentic Black experience—channeling our pain, frustration, and unfairness into raw, unapologetic humor.
Look, it's not a perfect book; a few things are missing to give it more depth, but I enjoyed it so much that it really doesn't even matter! Seriously, go read it, friends!
It’s a massive nearly 800 pages, packed with seriously laugh-out-loud humor and tons of compassion for people who aren't always treated like they are fully human. This was my first read by Alecia J, and you can tell she poured her whole soul into it—she even confessed she almost threw the novel away.
Honestly, you can feel that struggle a little; there are sections that ramble, get preachy, or needed some editing. But putting that aside, her characters are fantastic, constantly dropping profound wisdom and love, bar after bar after bar! The author has so much to say about life, its unfairness, and its redemption.
And she must be a comedian! Between the main character's outbursts, Chi's chill homie vibe, Dess's sarcasm, and the other side characters, she perfectly captures the authentic Black experience—channeling our pain, frustration, and unfairness into raw, unapologetic humor.
Look, it's not a perfect book; a few things are missing to give it more depth, but I enjoyed it so much that it really doesn't even matter! Seriously, go read it, friends!
October 8, 2025
Naji Ali and Imanio”Gatez”Kors
I absolutely love the inclusion in this book the diversity was beautiful, from the mixed characters to the representation of wheelchair and neurological disabilities. Naji navigated life so well after being on her own. Her Tourette’s made her feel different, but she still managed to make a name for herself. Imanio might’ve come off mean as a snake at first, but honestly, his heart was in the right place. His mother tried to mold him into someone he wasn’t, and it took him some time to finally put himself first. Mama Giselle learned the hard way that everything that glitters isn’t gold she lost sight of who she was and where she came from, and her fall hit hard.
Now, I know it’s not funny and I’m definitely not laughing at Naji’s disability, but her first interaction with Chi had me cracking up. When he said, “You hungry or high?” I lost it. Chi calling her “glitchy” or her blurting out “Back up, America’s Most Wanted!” were such hilarious moments. They truly became each other’s peace in a world that didn’t understand them. They turned their flaws into something powerful, and the way they fell in love was absolutely beautiful.
I absolutely love the inclusion in this book the diversity was beautiful, from the mixed characters to the representation of wheelchair and neurological disabilities. Naji navigated life so well after being on her own. Her Tourette’s made her feel different, but she still managed to make a name for herself. Imanio might’ve come off mean as a snake at first, but honestly, his heart was in the right place. His mother tried to mold him into someone he wasn’t, and it took him some time to finally put himself first. Mama Giselle learned the hard way that everything that glitters isn’t gold she lost sight of who she was and where she came from, and her fall hit hard.
Now, I know it’s not funny and I’m definitely not laughing at Naji’s disability, but her first interaction with Chi had me cracking up. When he said, “You hungry or high?” I lost it. Chi calling her “glitchy” or her blurting out “Back up, America’s Most Wanted!” were such hilarious moments. They truly became each other’s peace in a world that didn’t understand them. They turned their flaws into something powerful, and the way they fell in love was absolutely beautiful.
October 22, 2025
my self rating is a strong 3.8697 😆
overall good read. i just think some of it was a bit redundant. i thoroughly enjoyed imanio. loved naji. dess and chi were cool. obviously giselle was scum and their dad was coo.
i liked this book covering tourette’s. it definitely reminded me the condition was out there cause i forgot about it. lol you just don’t hear about that anymore. so that was nice. editing could’ve been a little better - i noticed a few things were often repeated and not from naji’s tics. but like literal phrases being repeated verbatim. like maybe the author didn’t realize she already said that.
tyla was crazy. idk what would possess someone to mess with somebody’s medication for the sake of wanting some spotlight, but inhumane behavior. giselle really did some of the most ridiculous things imaginable for the sake of image and that blows my mind. lol like girl, you really crazy! mama rose was coo and so was renee. to me, chi and dess was too much at times. lol and for whatever reason, her doing extra stuff to the wheelchair was dusty in my head the way i was imagining it. lol
naji definitely had a heart of gold. sacrificing herself for the comfort of others at times or just to get by. i believe her and imanio really balanced each other out.
overall good read. i just think some of it was a bit redundant. i thoroughly enjoyed imanio. loved naji. dess and chi were cool. obviously giselle was scum and their dad was coo.
i liked this book covering tourette’s. it definitely reminded me the condition was out there cause i forgot about it. lol you just don’t hear about that anymore. so that was nice. editing could’ve been a little better - i noticed a few things were often repeated and not from naji’s tics. but like literal phrases being repeated verbatim. like maybe the author didn’t realize she already said that.
tyla was crazy. idk what would possess someone to mess with somebody’s medication for the sake of wanting some spotlight, but inhumane behavior. giselle really did some of the most ridiculous things imaginable for the sake of image and that blows my mind. lol like girl, you really crazy! mama rose was coo and so was renee. to me, chi and dess was too much at times. lol and for whatever reason, her doing extra stuff to the wheelchair was dusty in my head the way i was imagining it. lol
naji definitely had a heart of gold. sacrificing herself for the comfort of others at times or just to get by. i believe her and imanio really balanced each other out.
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