Struck Speechless

by Tati Richardson

Sports agent Jackie Miles is a petite powerhouse who has built her empire on killer instincts, designer stilettos, and tough skin. Her client roster is legendary, her temper is hotter than Georgia asphalt, and aside from her French bulldog PeeWee and her "boss chick village," she's perfectly content flying solo.

Then Antonio Steele walks back into her life, and all hell breaks loose.

The towering former football star turned rival agent has always known exactly which buttons to push. Just when Jackie thinks she can handle their explosive chemistry and complicated past, she mysteriously loses her voice. But this isn't ordinary laryngitis; a cryptic stranger's message implies that Jackie must "quiet her tongue and listen with her heart" to lift whatever spell she's under. With a career-defining client trip to Mexico looming, and only the devastatingly handsome Antonio as backup, Jackie must learn to let go-if only she could trust him to catch her.

Struck Speechless is book two in the Boss Chicks Village Series, following the hit romcom Losing Sight.

Genres: Romance

400 pages, Paperback

Expected publication April 28, 2026

About the author

TATI RICHARDSON (she/her) is the author of Losing Sight, a romantic comedy which Kirkus called "playful" and "terrific" in a starred review; and The Build Up, named one of Amazon's Best Books of 2023 and a Booklist Top Romance of 2023. She is cofounder of the Romance in Colour podcast, and an Apple Books Writer to Watch.
Under the name T.M. Richardson, she writes extra-steamy works like the USA Today bestseller The Oath. A native of Atlanta, Tati lives with her husband and daughter.

Reviews

[Chantel DaCosta · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jackie annoyed to begin with but then I was rooting for her and Antonio.

Another fantastic romance with a hint of magic from Tati Richardson.

I recommend. Read Losing Sight first though.

[Rae | My Cousin’s Book Club · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! The spice was 🔥🔥🔥. The magic was surprisingly powerful. And the romance was ✨chefs kiss✨
I also enjoyed reading about a Black woman in the sports management world! Such a different world that I would’ve never know about without reading this book.
Thank you to the author, Tati for an advanced e-copy of the book!

[Dominique · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m always here for a second-chance love story, so Struck Speechless by Tati Richardson already had my attention. Listen… Antonio Steele??? That man was not giving up! Im a sucker for a persistent man in a second chance romance and Antonio was standing ten toes down the whole time.

Now Jackie… sis had me stressed!!! She was so cold to that man and making a lot of assumptions about him the entire time. I kept wanting her to just sit down and actually talk to him because the tension between them was REAL.

Also, the fact that Jackie, who is usually so vocal and outspoken, got so stressed that she literally lost her voice?? That is actually crazy. Talk about unlocking a whole new fear. Ha. It forced her to slow down in a way she clearly wasn’t used to, which added an interesting layer to the story.

There were definitely some twists and turns along the way, but this was a great read.. If you love a good second chance romance with tension, history, and a man who refuses to give up, this one is definitely worth picking up.

[Morgan Frances · Rating 4 out of 5]

Struck Speechless was a chaotic, drama-filled second-chance romance that fully leans into its rom-com energy—and I had a lot of fun with it.

As the second book in the Boss Chick Village series, this installment follows Jackie—Gideon’s cousin and Tanika’s best friend—a powerhouse sports agent known for being tough, guarded, and emotionally unavailable. Beneath that exterior is a woman shaped by past betrayals and a deep reluctance to trust. She’s stubborn, emotionally closed off, and often defaults to anger, which won’t work for every reader—but it makes her journey toward vulnerability all the more compelling.

That is, until Antonio messily forces his way back into her life—and her workplace—bringing a whole lot of unresolved history and new responsibilities with him.

What follows is a mix of forced proximity, a long-buried ten-year-old secret, and over-the-top situations that feel very true to classic rom-com fashion. The story leans heavily on the miscommunication trope—which can be frustrating—but it also drives both the humor and emotional tension throughout.

A central theme in this series is its spiritual thread, which explores the idea of losing one of your senses as a pathway to emotional clarity. This pattern continues from the first installment, reinforcing the series’s broader exploration of growth, self-awareness, and love. It functions as an intentional narrative device and adds a thoughtful, reflective layer beneath the otherwise light, fast-paced story.

Fans of messy second-chance romances with strong-willed heroines and high-drama dynamics will likely enjoy this one, especially if you like your rom-coms with a bit of emotional bite.

Overall, this was a fast-paced and engaging read with a compelling character arc, balanced by humor, tension, and emotional growth. I’m definitely curious to see how this theme continues in future installments of the series.

Thank you to NetGalley and the Generous Press | Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review 💖.

[Oni Banks · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book of the Boss Chicks Village series. It’s is a second chance romance filled with great banter and heat. The main characters have been apart for over 10 years but the sparks between them instantly rekindle when their competing agencies merge – bring them back into each other’s orbit.

I found the story overly long – it would be less repetitive if it had been shorter. That said –

The characters are adults! Ppl in their 40s having romance! Hooray! I love Jackie and Antonio. They’re funny and smart. They both love big but are fearful of being rejected. I love their friends/community. They all support each other and their meet-ups throughout the story bring a lot of joy. It’s great getting to catch-up with the characters we met previously. The magic/spiritualism of Jackie’s vocal paralysis came across well and aided the momentum of the story. I enjoyed it more than the magical element in the first novel.

This is a romance where a black woman is loved well and out loud! Antonio’s feelings are never a secret - It’s obvious to everyone but Jackie. I enjoyed Antonio surprising and spoiling her. Always having her back. I like that Jackie never tries to be “one of the guys” when it comes to her career. She is honest and determined and it’s why she succeeds. Jackie is a relatable character. She’s a woman that the world has labelled “strong and independent”, but the reality is she is just as fragile as any one else. The world has told her that she’s too much, but Antonio never sees her that way. Do they frustrate one another? Absolutely, lol. But he sees all of her and isn’t put off or exhausted. He respects and admires her. He wants to be her safe space – the person she never has to be strong with. He never leaves her to handle her burdens alone. Truly romantic.

I rated this story 4/5. Spice level 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Thank you to NetGalley and Generous Press for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Em · Rating 5 out of 5]

Struck Speechless by Tati Richardson is a sharp, funny, and emotionally layered second installment in the Boss Chicks Village series and a reminder of why Tati is one of my favorite romance writers.

I love how fully realized her characters feel before they ever get swept into love. Here, that depth is especially powerful because Jackie Miles and Antonio Steele already have a history and it’s a messy one. A decade after their relationship imploded, they’re forced back into each other’s orbit as rival sports agents, both brilliant, both stubborn, and both carrying old wounds that never quite healed.

Jackie is guarded, fiery, and fiercely self-protective, while Antonio wants another chance but understands that trust isn’t something he’s entitled to. Watching him move with patience and accountability as Jackie slowly lowers her defenses was satisfying. Their love story isn’t rushed and it’s earned.

I also appreciated the emotional subplots throughout the novel. Antonio’s journey toward reconnecting with the son he didn’t know he had adds growth to his character. Jackie’s tendency to cope through stonewalling and the gradual unraveling of that armor felt honest and relatable, especially for readers who know what it’s like to survive by staying shut down.

And as a dog lover (and French bulldog parent myself), I have to say: PeeWee Bark-Quan Miles absolutely stole my heart. Jackie’s bond with her dog adds warmth, humor, and grounding to the story in all the right moments.

Struck Speechless is romantic, funny, emotionally grounded, and sexy! This is a second-chance love story about trust, patience, and learning how to be held without bracing for impact.

[Chalon J · Rating 5 out of 5]

An advance copy was provided to me for free by the publisher.

Laugh-out-loud funny and irresistibly romantic, Struck Speechless by Tati Richardson kept me hooked from beginning to end! Jackie Miles is a sports agent at the top of her field with zero interest in romance, until Antonio Steele reenters her life. Their messy history and current rivalry collide just as Jackie is trying to land a reclusive client. As if that isn't complicated enough, Jackie mysteriously loses her voice and must “quiet her tongue and listen with her heart” if she wants it back.

What I loved most was how Richardson balances Jackie’s hilarious, frustrating inability to speak with the steamy, inevitable romance between her and Antonio. While I was cackling at their banter and Jackie’s increasingly chaotic attempts to communicate, I was also struck by how the story explores her experience in a male-dominated industry, where she’s constantly labeled too loud, too aggressive, and too much in ways her male colleagues never are. Antonio’s arc is just as satisfying as he confronts what he truly wants and takes emotional risks to pursue the woman he’s never forgotten. Their chemistry crackles off the page and I rooted for their happily ever after.

This love story is for everyone, but especially for those who’ve been told that they are too loud, too aggressive, or too much. You are more than enough.

✨ If you love stories with witty banter and women who refuse to shrink themselves, Struck Speechless should be on your reading list!

Star Rating: 4.5 (rounded up due to limitations on this platform)

[readsby.mani Dunston · Rating 5 out of 5]

I knew this book was going to be good, but it was better than what I expected. It was addictive, hilarious and so sexy.

Struck Speechless, the second book in The Boss Chick Village series, following sorts agent Jacqueline “Jackie” Miles who loses her voice right before a career defining trip now must work with Antonio Steele, a man from her past and rival sports agent who reenters her life.

I have such a deep love for bold and fierce FMC and Jackie is the epitome of that. was. She’s hands down one of the best written FMC. I really enjoyed reading how much of a go getter, always fighting for what she wants. She was a force to be reckoned with. But my favorite part is her letting go and allowing herself to be loved and to give love back. Antonio Steele the man you are!!! I was so obsessed with him, he was charming, hilarious and so tender. He just radiate book husband material. I loved how he constantly showed up for Jackie to show her that were meant to each other and the way he affirmed her was so beautiful.

The romance between Jackie and Antonio was EVERYTHING!!! It was passionate, all consuming. The yearning and angst was done incredibly well that you could literally feel it leaping off the page.

Overall, Struck Speechless is an incredible book that I can’t recommend enough. So if you love books with a bold female main character, strong female friendships and a romance that’s going to stay with you long after finishing then you definitely need to add Struck Speechless to your TBR

[TheNovelNomad · Rating 4 out of 5]

Struck Speechless delivers exactly what fans of the Boss Chicks Village series crave: wit, charm, and a heroine who refuses to be underestimated. Jackie Miles is the ultimate “boss chick”—driven, savvy, and completely human in her flaws and strengths. From her high-powered career as a sports agent to the hilarious, heartfelt dynamics with her friends and her French bulldog PeeWee, Jackie feels real and relatable while also larger-than-life in her confidence and charisma.

The romantic tension with Antonio Steele is electric. Their history, banter, and chemistry drive the story in a way that’s both fun and emotionally satisfying. The “quiet your tongue, listen with your heart” thread adds a unique, almost magical twist that keeps the plot engaging without ever feeling gimmicky.

The pacing is quick, the stakes feel personal, and the humor lands beautifully alongside the romantic tension. Readers will delight in the clever texts, emails, and sharp dialogue that make Jackie and Antonio’s interactions so captivating. Even as a standalone, this book works perfectly, but fans of Losing Sight will appreciate the deeper understanding of Jackie’s world and friendships.

Struck Speechless is smart, funny, and heartfelt—a romcom that celebrates friendship, resilience, and the thrill of letting love in at just the right moment. It’s an irresistible read for anyone who loves strong heroines, swoon-worthy romance, and stories that keep you laughing and rooting for the characters from start to finish.

Thanks to the publisher and author for the ARC.

[Alicia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Struck Speechless is a second chance romance featuring Jackie and Antonio, two sports agents who continue to be brought together reigniting their passion from a weekend ten years ago in Vegas. There is a lot in this book, from family drama and international travels. Also, what I did not realize is about halfway through the book, maybe earlier Jackie loses her ability to speak. It doesn’t feel ‘magical’, more like a curse and it works well woven into the book.

For me, I liked the book but did not love it. First, I did see another reviewer suggesting reading Richardson’s first book and I do think that would have added a lot in terms of the background characters, who were great fun. At this, I had to remind myself to keep reading because I was not that engrossed in the story.

Jackie was a very unlikeable character right out of the gate. I do feel like as you read you learn more about who she is, why she is so harsh to everyone she meets and gives no one the benefit of the doubt, but it was hard to get over and hard to cheer for her. Antonio is a sweet character but lacks a bit of depth. I honestly found myself more excited for the other characters and plot points of the book.

Overall, I think it was a great concept though and did make me want to read the other book in the series to see how it played out. I also love how both Jackie and Antonio were a little older for a romance book, but this did not lessen the passion or discussions about their future. It really felt realistic and I appreciate that as a reader.

[Natasha P · Rating 5 out of 5]

Going into Struck Speechless, I was excited to return to the Boss Chicks Village world—and while this book definitely tested my patience at times, it also delivered where it mattered most.
Let’s start with the elephant in the room: Jackie Miles got on every single one of my nerves. She’s sharp, driven, and undeniably competent, but whew—her stubbornness and temper had me wanting to shake her more than once. That said, watching her be forced to shut up made for some great moments.
Antonio Steele, on the other hand? A dream. Capital D. He’s the kind of MMC who knows when to push and when to simply show up. The chemistry between him and Jackie is explosive and their spicy scenes were chef’s kiss.
One of my favorite parts of this book was spending time with the Boss Chicks again. They added so much humor and heart. This installment also leans harder into comedy than the first book, and for me, that was a win.
The pacing deserves a special shoutout. This book moved. I devoured it in a single day without ever feeling rushed or bored—always a sign that the balance between plot, romance, and character work is hitting just right.
Despite my frustrations with Jackie, Struck Speechless was fun, sexy, and entertaining, with a standout MMC and a romance that crackles off the page.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨/5

#StruckSpeechless
#NetGalley

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Laurie Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

We first meet Jackie in Losing Sight (book 1 in the series), where she is a no-nonsense sports agent who has her own thing going on and seems to have a full life. She’s tiny and always speaks her mind, without necessarily listening to others.
She has to work three times harder than her white male counterparts to gain the respect and recognition she deserves, and she does it well.
Antonio, the MMC, is a retired football player turned sports agent. There’s history and a huge rivalry between Jackie and Antonio, and when they’re forced to work together, Jackie is faced with multiple challenges. She loses her voice just when she needs to land her biggest contract yet, and the only person who can help her is, unfortunately, Antonio.
The only thing I didn’t like is that it took almost the entire book for Jackie to confront her issues and past trauma.
The whole series has a mystique/paranormal element that I thoroughly enjoyed.
I loved that love after 40 was represented in this book. Although it is a rom-com, topics such as racism, sexism in the workplace, and unhealthy family relationships are explored.
This book is for you if you’re into rom-coms with grown characters (40 and up), a little bit of mystique/paranormal, lots of banter, and a good 3-4 level of spice.

[Michelle Antunez · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has everything you'd want in a second chance romance.

The characters have a brief introduction in the beginning, then the forced proximity. There are so many layers to this story which make it so much more than just a simple rom-com. At the beginning I was initially turned off by the magical realism but it doesn't overpower the story and it is so believable that everyone, even Jackie, embraces it. It's hard to get so much chemistry from a couple with one main character not being able to talk for half of the book but Tati Richardson is able to do it. She also does such a great job to portray Jackie in such a great way without any dialogue without making her boring and by using other aspects which is a feat on its own.

This book is about family, love, and trust. I really enjoyed it and I'm so glad I received an ARC from the publisher because I'll be picking up more books from Tati Richardson from now on.


Thanks to the NetGalley and the publisher for and ARC in exchange for an honest review as always, all words are my own.

[Erika Tennille · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. Black romance, strong career women, enemies to lovers, and second-chance love all in one. I always love a strong FMC. The perfect mix of rom-com energy, workplace drama but still totally realistic. This was so relatable to me as a woman who likes to always be in control, has a hard time letting people in and trusting enough to submit. Jackie loses something in this book that I feel like symbolize her found strength to give up control and listen more instead of lead and be vulnerable.
The MMC Antonio a former football star and someone from her past know exactly how to get under her skin. I loved their banter and the push and pull of the relationship. The tension between them was just perfect. I gave this book 4 ⭐️. If you love workplace drama, 2nd chance romance and a strong FMC...you will love this book. It was emotionally layered, addictive and the perfect amount of SPICE.🌶️

[Mya E · Rating 4 out of 5]

Am I starting to fall in love with romance stories sprinkled with a touch of magical realism? This one certainly makes it feel that way!

I laughed so much throughout this book!

Last year, I found myself drawn to similar elements in Losing Sight, and this story gave me that same captivating blend.

We follow Jackie, a fierce, high-performing sports agent thriving in a male-dominated industry. Though she’s small in stature, she has a big reputation for getting things done with a sharp attitude to match. While I admired her ambition and drive, there were moments when her lack of understanding made her difficult to fully root for.
Antonio, along with the thread of magical realism, helped create a beautiful balance in this second-chance romance, softening Jackie’s edges and adding depth to the story.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and am sharing this review voluntarily.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

The thing I appreciate most about Tati Richardson's books is that she writes mature MCs who already know themselves well (but of course also have something that they don't want to realize about themselves). Richardson does NOT shy away from making Jackie unlikeable, which might turn some people off, but it's clear why Jackie is the way she is, and she remains tough throughout, though there is a softness to her with the people she cares about and with her dog. She is rigid as hell, though (in 10 years, she hasn't let the hero explain what happened after their one night together), and there are times where her toughness shifts into meanness, which makes it difficult to root for her sometimes. Her arc is ultimately very satisfying, though I don't think Antonio has as much of an arc--he's just there to support her, more than anything.

[Claudia W · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for this advance copy of Struck Speechless!!!

Jackie’s journey as she navigates the emotional scars of her past—from her relationship with her mother to previous romances. These struggles shape how she communicates, connects with others, and approaches her career, making her growth feel real and relatable.

What I loved most is how her personal and professional development unfold together. Jackie gradually learns to confront her fears, find her voice, and trust herself, all while becoming more confident and assertive in her career. The story beautifully shows that growth isn’t linear—it takes resilience, reflection, and courage.

Struck Speechless is both inspiring and memorable, a story about self-discovery and the power of finding your voice.

[Jsin Graham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 of the "boss chicks" universe does not disappoint. I really enjoyed the dynamic (connection) between Jackie and Antonio which was far different from what I thought it would be after their introduction in "Losing Sight."

The author does a great job of creating a world that forces this pair back together, allowing Jackie's personality to shine, and be explained, while forcing her to learn herself in the process. Antonio's character arc in the story outside of Jackie added an interesting subplot that helps drive the story as well.

The magical realism does not hit as hard as in Losing Sight, but we'll allow it (lol). An entertaining read all around.

[Sauniell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Having not read the first book in this series, it could be the case that the first book gives the context needed for the FMC before beginning this book. Nonetheless, this review comes from the perspective that Struck Speechless is my first introduction to Jackie Miles.

The book comes in hot with Jackie making it clear that she dislikes everyone and everything with the exception of her dog. She has friends, godchildren, and is even in a sorority which should imply that people like her for some reason. However as a reader her internal and external dialogue and actions don’t provide any proof that she cares for anyone. I don’t recall her having anything truly positive to say about anyone.

Antonio, who had a memorable night with Jackie ten years prior, is introduced as the person she hates most of all. Jackie and Antonio’s romantic storyline relies heavily on the “he falls first” trope and the definite sexual chemistry they have. However the storyline really didn’t give better context on why they should fall in love outside of lust and infatuation on Antonio's part. The magical element and the other cast of characters do introduce some lighter or more intriguing aspects to help move the book along.

This was a solidly written book but it definitely needed more nuance as to why Jackie is who she is and why people like her in spite of how she treats them. Telling us she rides hard for the people she cares about but showing us the opposite makes it difficult to connect to the character.

[fairyglowmother · Rating 4 out of 5]

Extremely cuuuuute!

The FMC was fun-sized and feisty, just like myself, so I could relate a bit. But more than that, this is my first time reading such a whimsical Black romance and I think it was so fun! Would actually love to see this as a rom-com on my TV screen one day.

Jackie and Antonio were HOT and I loved how well-balanced this read was. It was drama, it was romance, it was SPICY (when necessary), it was tender. Definitely will have to give Losing Sight a read (the first book in this series).

[Carletta · Rating 3 out of 5]

REVIEW OF ADVANCED COPY VIA NETGALLEY

Tati Richardson is really good at fleshing out characters and the humor running through this book made me laugh. Having said that - our female main character, a petite powerhouse sports agent is so overwhelmingly unlikable that by the time the story starts to shift- you don’t even want to root for her any more. I also felt that the book could have had less characters because so many of them felt like they added nothing to the overall movement. I was entertained and would recommend this as a light, frothy read.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was great!

I loved the premise and how Jackie didn’t have to change for Ant. Especially when he supports her career changes and wants her to succeed.

I also loved that both the FMC and MMC were olders (40s) and felt like they had full lives before the other person.

Things I loved:
💕 The second chance aspect
💕 40s MMC and FMC
💕 the yearning
💕 the banter
💕 the female friendships
💕 PeeWee (you have to love a frenchie, I don’t make the rules 🤷‍♀️)
💕 the travel (feels like a great spring/summer read)

I can’t wait to read what Tati writes next!

[Cassidy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Struck Speechless is the second book in the Boss Chicks Village Series. It can be read as a standalone, but I definitely recommend reading book one, Losing Sight. Both books show a beautiful example of friendship, “Boss Chick” energy, and the men that love them. Struck Speechless is the story of two sports agents. It’s a lovers to enemies to lovers romance. And there is an adorable doggy in the mix. I had a wonderful time reading it.


I voluntarily read an early copy.

[Nicki Smithers · Rating 5 out of 5]

NetGalley arc, thank you.

I read and loved Losing Sight, the first book, so was very excited to get stuck straight into this one. As much as I loved the romance between Jackie and Antonio, I absolutely loved the friendship and found family between all of the characters, continuing on from book one. How they were there for each other through life’s ups and downs, and made time for each other despite busy lives was so special.

[Shurida · Rating 5 out of 5]

I knew with these two fire signs, it was gonna get spicy. Jackie and Antonio!! Match made in heaven. I loved everything about this book, the banter, the sex, the yearning, it was just too good. I also enjoy reading about older women/men falling in love, it’s never too late. But my one question is where can I find a Mother Mary?!

[Azriana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a well written, fun love story!
Jackie is such an unapologetic BOSS and Antonio is the perfect book boyfriend. This rom-com literally had me laughing out loud.

Some of my favorite moments were:
-The spa in Mexico
-Savannah
-after Mo’s fight
-the epilogue

Highly recommended for fans of romantic comedies!

[Natasha Simons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Struck Speechless is the kind of romcom that doesn’t just sparkle, it sizzles. Jackie Miles is an absolute force from the first page. A powerhouse sports agent with a sharp tongue and sharper instincts, she’s built an empire in a male-dominated industry without apologizing for her ambition. Watching her navigate high-stakes deals in designer heels is half the fun.

[Jasmine VanDross · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review!!!

This book was so stinking cute. At first I was upset with the FMC like girl let this man explain. But I get why she was the way she was. And baby, that MMC was not playing with her. Even with all the attitude. I believe in soulmates and they were definitely meant to be. Loved this book. And we love a good eater 😏😏

[Aanya Sachdeva · Rating 5 out of 5]

The tension and the buildup OMG!!!
Absolutely loved this novel so much!!!!!
I definitely loved the texts and emails between Jackie and Anthony were definitely it!
A quick cannot put it down and will finish it in one sitting read!
5/5stars!

[Rita · Rating 4 out of 5]

Funny, smart and endearing read. The “boss chicks” are the girlfriends we all need. Jackie and Ant gave us a mature journey of love at work.