The Rhythm of Raine at Dawn: A Black Sapphic Romance

by Aricka Alexander

When Raine Williams posted a video of her original choreography to the new single of popular R&B artist Dawn Anderson, she never expected it to go viral and garner hundreds of thousands of views.

And she definitely didn’t expect it to also catch the attention of Dawn herself.

But when Raine is later approached by the singer and offered the chance of a lifetime, she’s hesitant at first, held back by years of disappointment and backstabbing. However, after a quick pep talk and gentle push from her best friend, she takes that leap of faith…and it more than pays off.

Especially when she realizes that Dawn is interested in getting to know her beyond the dance moves she effortlessly choreographs to create what Dawn claims is pure magic.

Of course, life isn’t always sunshine and rainbows, especially when jealous ex-situationships, fake friends, overbearing siblings, family drama, and secrets lurk around every corner. But Raine is determined to find her peace and happiness amongst the chaos. She vows to put herself first, speak up for what she wants, and fight for the woman of her dreams.

How hard can it be, right?

Genres: Romance, Queer, Contemporary, LGBT, Adult, Fiction, Lesbian Fiction

244 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 12, 2026

About the author

Just a Black sapphic indie author who loves Black sapphic stories. All of my books are set mostly in Southern Louisiana. I also write YA.

Reviews

[Unpopmary]

This story had so many sweet moments, even though it's classic insta-love. I really appreciated how the author explored our FMC's self-confidence struggles and the deep trauma from her toxic 'sister' relationship; dysfunctional family dynamics done with real care. It touches on so many important topics... but honestly, I think the execution could've been a little stronger overall. Still a cozy, heartfelt read!

[bree]

3.5/5 stars ✨🎧

the positives: i absolutely love the special edition and OG cover, they're both gorgeoussss 😍 raine & dawn's love story was cute, insta-lovey & low angst. dawn is a big eaterrrr, okay?! she took advantage of any and EVERY opportunity to taste ms. raine 🤭 IKTR! i loved the relationship dawn had with her queer sibling. i also loved how she didn't hesitate to stand up for raine, support her & care for her. the backstory with the keychain was such a cute part of their romance. dawn & raine had very good chemistry, and their sexual intimacy was sexy & fun!!

my critique: my main critique for Arii A's work would be that i always feel like i'm being told vs. being shown... i would love deeper, grittier, complex conversations between the characters where i can infer certain things without it being stated explicitly... we're given entire backstories in the middle of scenes between the MCs/SCs via streams of words or thoughts, and i think we can come to conclusions on certain feelings, emotions & experiences based on how the characters respond, interact, and behave.

overall rating is a 3.5 ⭐️🩷

[Eros Rose]

“You’re dangerous, baby, but I’d still happily follow you into the deepest part of the ocean.”

Aricka Alexander does not miss.
There is always something special about A.A’s work that stands out to me. At the very beginning there were a list of topics discussed, possible trigger warnings, etc. There is also detailed information surrounding the main characters before you begin that sets the tone for how you envision the MCs.

-queer characters
-diverse identities
-ADHD representation
-healing from past traumas
-plus size, dancer FMC
-celebrity, R&B singer FMC
-complicated family dynamics
-sweet x supportive friendship
-late 20s/early 30s MCs
-realistic spice
-relatable chemistry
-strong villains
-unexpected drama x twists
-strong epilogue

This storyline was full from start to finish.
If you are looking for a medium-paced sapphic romance that is heavy with yearning x softness but sprinkled with entertainment laced in drama (and plenty of spice) then this is the novel for you.

[Ja’Laya Johnson]

The Rhythm of Raine at Dawn was such a beautiful, heartfelt, and uplifting read. Raine’s journey from quietly doubting herself to boldly stepping into her purpose was inspiring and incredibly relatable. Watching her take a leap of faith after years of disappointment and betrayal reminded me how powerful it is to choose yourself, even when fear tries to hold you back.

I loved the chemistry between Raine and Dawn — it felt soft, genuine, and rooted in mutual admiration and support. Their connection went beyond attraction and really highlighted the importance of being seen, valued, and encouraged for who you are. The dance element added so much magic to the story, and I appreciated how creativity and passion were woven into Raine’s growth.

What really stood out to me was the theme of self-worth. This story shows how important it is to speak up, set boundaries, and protect your peace, especially when dealing with fake friends, family pressure, and past hurts. Raine’s determination to fight for her happiness felt empowering and honest.

[mmmkay]

The Rhythm of Raine at Dawn
Mental health rep • verbal abuse rep • anxiety rep

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 stars

Whew… this book was exactly the palate cleanser my heart needed after some heavy reads 🥹💗 It truly felt like a warm hug in book form.

I absolutely loved Raine and Dawn together — their connection, their softness, and especially their individual growth throughout the story. Watching them heal and evolve had me smiling way too hard at my Kindle.

And listen… the spicy scenes?? 🌶️🌶️
Baby, they hit. Had me kicking my feet and blushing for real 😭

Ari’s writing continues to be chef’s kiss. This is easily going on my top favorite reads from her. And that plot twist?? HELLO??? I did not see that coming at all.

Overall, such a solid, feel-good read. Emotional, swoony, a little spicy, and just an all-around great time 💕📖

[EJ]

Oh, the writing was... not good. Allllllll telling and not an ounce of showing. The nonstop stream of exposition made this really dull to read.

Instead of having scenes that the characters inhabit and live in and show us who they are as people with all their mess and complications, we got surface-level summaries and exposition about them. Everyone neatly and tidily explains their feelings every time, but it's supremely uninteresting to read people flatly reciting affirmations at each other.

The writing was basically: "I did this, I went here, I felt sad. Paragraph of backstory summary. This happened. I felt happy. I did this, she did that. It made me feel xyz emotion. I felt that way because here's why. More backstory infodump."

In general, I think romance reviewers throw around the word "instalove" way too much (when often "has a spark/chemistry" would be more fitting), but this one earns the complaint of instalove. They were like "I feel safe with you in a way I've never felt before and I'm going to fall in love with you and I feel like we were meant to be and I feel like I knew you forever" after like... two conversations of surface-level, smalltalk. Those emotions don't land for the reader because there was... absolutely no work to build up to them.

Structurally, the plot beats were so messy. We just skipped right into the middle of the tour? The major story engine that the book is structured around, and we just jumped through half of it with a quick summary? And then the tour wrapped up around 65%. We got nothing of their actual performing life. Not ONCE was there even a scene of them on stage together! There was no moment their eyes meet on stage in front of thousands of people and for one fleeting moment of time everything slows and the roar of the crowd fades out and they feel in front of all those eyes like the only people in the world... Just, y'know, spitballing things someone might expect in a singer/dancer romance. But c'mon, they should at least be on stage ONCE on page.

Smaller gripes that bothered me specifically because the writing already lost my faith/good will/suspension of disbelief over the larger craft issues:

-We open with each main character telling us a summary of their childhood, family dynamics, and life up until the present moment. From there, the storytelling doesn't ever stop being inorganic.

-The level of fame were told Dawn has does not match how Dawn interacts with and is treated in the world. Paparazzi are nowhere to be found. She's kissing Raine out in public and there are no tabloids or gossip about it. She has all the perks of being mega-famous (money to throw at problems, famous person clout) with none of the downsides, which was way less interesting for the narrative.

-Any time there were like two paragraphs of inner monologue in the middle of a scene, the dialogue would resume with the other character being like "hey you zoned out for a minute" and it's like... If the inner voice has an aside, I don't assume the person's physical body is just sitting stock-still waiting for the scene to resume, in a way that's noticeable to other characters. An aside is an aside for a reason. I wouldn't complain about it if it was just once, but it was So! Many! Times!

-Characters just intuit things about each other constantly. Friends walking in and saying "you look upset, I bet it's about this specific thing" (and it is). Raine thinking that Dawn has good legs "like she played volleyball" (she did). Why is everyone psychic about other people's thoughts and backstories.

-The whole childhood swingset thing was cheesy as hell, not to mention so glaringly obvious from the very beginning that the "reveal" aaaall the way at the end just made me roll my eyes.

Positive things:

-The cover is lovely. Really gorgeous cover art.
-I also thought that once Raine and Dawn were established as a couple (however instantaneously that happened), they had some good chemistry in the moments when they were just flirting and teasing each other. Those were the moments that sparkled the most and where the characters felt like they could finally breathe and inhabit the page. Similarly, I liked when characters were just goofing around with each other, because it was another moment where they got to breathe instead of Perfectly Reciting Their Emotions.
-The relief when Dawn and Raine finally told off Dawn's aunt and Trelyn respectively, because it was nice to finally see some teeth to the emotion. I also really liked the chewy family dynamic that was revealed with Myra and her mom—though I wish it had been written with a little more art. As written, it sort of just immediately slid Myra over to suddenly having the Good Person Supportive Dialogue instead of the Bad Person Undermining Dialogue. The execution undercut the dynamic somewhat, but it also added enough emotional complexity to make me more forgiving than I felt towards other moments of emotional flatness.
-The one-way mirror scene was Hot.

Unfortunately, those good moments were only sporadic and infrequent glimmers, lodged between constant exposition and flat writing. On the whole, just really clumsy execution.

Summary, repetitive exposition, and flat therapy-speak took the place of character work. At least by explaining everything instead, I could get through reading this quickly.

[KeeAirRuhh]

First let me say, I will always read anything Aricka Alexander writes.

However, this one didn’t quite hit the mark for me. I was bored for the majority of the book. I would have enjoyed reading more about the plot twist to be honest.

Gonna be 3.5 ⭐️

[Natasha]

ARC REVIEW: The Rhythm of Raine at Dawn is everything I expect from Aricka Alexander and more. The queen of sapphic romance has delivered again.

I was completely pulled into this story…so immersed that I felt myself falling in love right alongside the characters. Dawn is the kind of lover we all deserve: kind, patient, emotionally present, and deeply intentional. Every interaction felt tender and purposeful, and it made the romance feel both aspirational and grounding.

The twists and turns were perfectly placed. Nothing felt forced, it was just enough tension and surprise to keep me locked in and emotionally invested. This story flowed like a love letter, not just between the characters, but to the reader as well.

What I loved most is how affirming this book felt. It read like a constant reminder of worth, softness, and the beauty of being loved out loud. And yes..I absolutely need the male or female version ASAP 😂.

[SarahinWanderland]

The Rhythm of Raine at Dawn by Aricka Alexander is a sweet Black sapphic romance about creativity, visibility, and learning to trust new opportunities. When Raine’s choreography for R&B singer Dawn Anderson goes viral, their professional collaboration quickly develops into a tender romance. Their singer-and-dancer dynamic feels fresh, and their mutual admiration gives the attraction an emotional foundation.
I loved watching Raine choose herself after years of disappointment and betrayal. The family drama, jealous exes, and hidden secrets create tension, but the romance stays warm and comforting. Raine and Dawn’s story celebrates Black queer love, neurodivergence, found family, and the joy of finding someone who sees both your talent and your full humanity.

[Amy Lynn]

I needed this cozy romance and I can always count on Aricka to bring all the feels. Between the romance, mental health, family dynamics, you’re bound to resonate with the characters in some way.

[Elise]

This book has very chaotic bisexual energy, both in terms of the character & plot (it jumps around a lot in time/location) and in terms of the writing style. I did really like seeing two plus size Black FMCs fall in love (and in lust) and generally thrive in an almost fully Black cast.

I didn't see one major reveal coming about the mom-sister whereas the other reveal about the childhood keychain was almost too obvious.

I was slightly confused about the OCD rep. A childhood OCD diagnosis is mentioned early on in the book, and e.g. on the authors website the book is listed as having OCD and ADHD rep. Whereas the ADHD was mentioned multiple times and pretty clear in the character's behavior throughout the book, the OCD is only mentioned the once, and I didn't really see it in the character's behaviors or thought processes or anything at all (though I'm by no means an expert so if the character reads as OCD coded to others i would love to learn more about that!).

I appreciated the author's note about writing style, it helped set expectations, especially about the mixed use of past and present tense throughout the book (even within the same sentence). I don't necessarily think the writing style was for me, but that's fine, given that I also don't think I'm part of the primary intended audience for the book.

[taylor]

Read TRORAD if you love:
-Lovers who are intentional, deeply supportive, and genuinely admire one another
- “yes, daddy” 🥵😉
-Spiceeee 🌶️🤭
-plot twist 👀
-A self-worth and healing journey ❤️‍🩹
-Supportive friends & found family 🫶🏾


Representations / Themes / Tropes:
-Black sapphic romance (pansexual x bisexual)
-Queer side and supporting characters
-Dancer x singer romance
“Strangers” → friends → lovers
-Mental health awareness
-Neurodivergence representation
I knew I was in for a treat the moment I read this quote towards beginning of the book:
“I believed that the universe had a way of showing you the path you were meant to take, and even if you lost the map, you’d always find your way back on the road to where you were destined to be.”
Another one of my favorite quotes comes at the beginning of chapter 12:
“Like rain falling on a droughted land, you replenished me with your smile. Your laugh. Your presence.”

[Belle]

Thank you to the author for sending me an eARC. This is my honest review, so stop reading here Aricka.

I thought the main characters were cute, and the main two drama topics were well done. Everything else was a turnoff for me though.
This was definitely a very rushed UHAUL insta-love type of relationship. The weird pet-names thing occurs here, as do the terms "mama" and "daddy" in sexual instances. Alongside those details, I found myself frequently thinking "that doesn't make sense" or just felt so unrealistic that it took me out of the story for a moment. Like meeting your child's new partner and sobbing about them being in love within a minute, as if you would have the slightest clue about this new stranger. Or one of the MCs going " we have a flight in 5 hours so you go back to sleep while I'll prepare a romantic beachside picnic that I'll even take the time to decorate for"

I wanted to like this book. I really did. There were a lot of good details that drew me in, so I won't call it bad. It just wasn't good for me. I'm still quite certain that others will drool over parts that I didn't appreciate. But it's not necessarily one I'd recommend.

[CurvyGirlBookGuide]

I think Raine and Dawn are one of my favortite couples of all time. We meet Raine after she moves back to Louisiana and takes an office job while she continues to persue her dream to become a dancer. Dawn is back home as well since she has become a famous, award-winning singer and artist who’s preparing to go on tour. Dawn sees Raine teach a dance class at the community center and finds her social media where Raine posted original choreo to one of Dawn’s songs. Dawn is immediatly smitten and wants Raine as her lead dancer for tour. Things only develope from there.
I loved Dawn’s forward approach - there was no guessing about her feelings and she was unapologetic in everything she did, from her professional choices to her love for Raine. I could only hope for a partner like Dawn. Raine was such a vibrant character. Her strength and vulnerability showed throughout the book as she navigates extremely difficult situations and relationships. The way these two come together and support each other was so swoonworthy. Also, the friends, siblings, and cousins around them were a fabulous cast of side characters. I highly recommend you read this.

[Chalon J]

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

Absolutely loved this sweet, tender, and steamy sapphic romance!

Raine and Dawn were so delightful to read and I was rooting for them to be together right from the beginning! The yearning and chemistry between them was palpable and the way they supported was intentional and uplifting.

While the majority of this book was low-angst, there were a few unexpected revelations and nods to heavier topics (anxiety, deteriorating health of a parent, and family conflict) that added additional depth to the romance. Alexander navigates these additions with care and maintains a lighthearted approach to the overall story.

🎧 Audiobook Commentary:
Narrated by Trei Taylor and Nia Serge, this audiobook is a must listen! They each embody Raine and Dawn’s emotions so well I couldn’t press pause because I wanted to stay with the story longer. Together, they effortlessly help you feel the love between the main characters and complement Alexander’s prose.

✨ If you want a romance that will leave you smiling and keeping a cold glass of water handy, The Rhythm of Raine at Dawn should be on your reading list!

[Paige Mitchell]

I really had a hard time finishing this book. There were multiple spelling and grammatical errors, which I can overlook. There were multiple plot holes (if you want to call them that) concerning the date and time listed on the page and what actually takes place. There were a few details about side characters that were not explained; I felt like they should've been.

The plot itself was boring to me. There was very little conflict, and there was no climax point. Maybe I just like my books to be more angsty, but there was very little of that in TRORAD. The book was mostly ups, very few downs.

The pacing was weird. It was insta-love, but it did not feel realistic. Not too fast, necessarily, but just weird.

The author's style was interesting. Yes, in the author's note, Aricka mentions that her style is different, but I personally found it hard to read. Between the switching of tenses, the fourth wall breaking, and the going back and forth in time when switching between pov's, I found it difficult to read.

[Alex]

The Rhythm of Raine at Dawn is a beautifully written adult sapphic romance about artistic passion, self-discovery, divine kinship and indulging in the kind of love of our dreams. Raine’s viral dance video to Dawn’s music changes the course of their lives. Alexander’s imagery, detailed character descriptions and thoughtful dialogue jump off the page, bringing the book so close to home. I enjoyed how the book shows interpersonal conflict, chronic illness and collective trauma in a way that takes root in abundant, present and accountable love. I am also thrilled that these characters are grown folks who value consent, aftercare and a whole lot of good teasing in their spicy, intimate moments. Ultimately, The Rhythm of Raine at Dawn is a love letter to the underestimated dreamer with a big heart who transforms a wealth of platonic love into something so powerful that they finally choose themselves and they groove their way to a happy ending they never imagined was possible.

[Just D]

Soft, Layered, and Full of Heart
This was such a sweet, satisfying read. I enjoyed watching Raine step into herself as the story unfolded. Shaped by past disappointments and messy relationships, made her growth feel real instead of rushed.
The connection between Raine and Dawn was gentle but compelling. It wasn’t only about the choreography or the fame. It was about being seen and choosing to take a chance when it would be easier to stay guarded. Their dynamic had a nice balance of tenderness and tension, especially as outside pressures started creeping in.
What surprised me most were the layers. Family drama, complicated friendships, and lingering secrets added depth without overpowering the romance. The twists caught me off guard in a good way and kept the story moving while giving the characters room to breathe.

[Kiera Patterson]

obsessed!!! 4.5

I’m a romance novel connoisseur, but this was my first sapphic romance and damn was it good. I’m not gonna lie, the first few chapters felt slightly messy in terms of structure and direction, but after chapter 5, I was HOOKED HUNNY! This book made me feel all the feels, but what I loved most about this romance was that it felt very feminine? I don’t know if that’s the correct verbiage, but it was deeper, more emotional, softer and it was all reciprocated between the love interests, whereas in hetero romance books, the male energy can take away from that. I really love that aspect and that they had so many queer friends around them. The last thing I have to say is Chapter 16 - Chef’s muthafkn kiss. Had me crying in the back of the bus on my way to work. Obsessed with this book, will be buying it for my collection!!!

[Jackie D]

Loved this story! If I want to read strong, plus sized, queer rep Aricka Alexander is my go to! Raine and Dawn were such a sweet dynamic. Dawn just wants to take care of Raine anyway she can. They have such a soft relationship. Very modern meet cute and the writing style went perfectly with the story. Feels like your friend is telling you a story that happened to them. The plot twist in this one!!!! Ooooo boy didn’t see it coming! Only critique…Trelyn got away too long with her crap. The spicy scenes in this will make you blush and the epilogue will make you smile! I am absolutely ecstatic to see what book two brings!

-Celebrity X Dancer
-Mental health rep
-Plus sized characters
-Great friend group

Thank you to Aricka Alexander for the advance copy of The Rhythm of Raine at Dawn.

[Brisace]

Thank you to Aricka Alexander for the advance copy of The Rhythm of Raine at Dawn.

This story feels like a soft glow wrapped in real-life chaos. Raine’s journey hit close, watching her finally trust her talent, her voice, and her worth after so much disappointment was deeply satisfying. Seeing her take that leap, even with fear and old wounds tugging at her, felt real and earned.

The chemistry between Raine and Dawn builds naturally, rooted in creativity, admiration, and mutual respect. At its heart, this is a story about choosing yourself, speaking up, and letting joy and ambition exist side by side. Tender, affirming, and emotionally grounded, it’s a romance that reminds you your dreams and your heart can coexist.

[Kasley.K]

The Rhythm of Raine at Dawn was a good slice-of-life fiction.

As we follow Raine and Dawn, we discover complicated family relationships where secrets and abuse mix; backstabbing friends and the importance of surrounding yourself with people who genuinely root for you, your happiness, and your success.

Raine is really sweet and a fighter. I loved witnessing her journey and her getting the recognition she deserves. I appreciated Dawn for the way she supported Raine and took care of her.
They form a cute couple. Dawn is a real charmer who knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to go for it while keeping it respectful. There is also a good amount of spice.

The Rhythm of Raine at Dawn was my first Aricka Alexander book, and I very much enjoyed it.

[Tiffani]

This book was absolutely amazing. I love Raine and Dawn’s story. You could just feel the love. And when you have a realization that makes the bond even closer you can’t help but fall deeper in love. This book took me on so many roller coasters of emotions but I loved it

And I will say if you not coming about me how Ginger did for Raine then I don’t want you as a friend. She is the true definition of a ride or die

Myra I’m gone give you grace. That’s it that’s all……Ohhh and Trelyn, Girllll Raine should have stomped you forever ago. Definitely ain’t given her no grace

Today is release day so make sure you go read this book and follow Arii if you haven’t already

[Jay]

I was gifted this ARC.

I loved the idea of a music star hooking up with a dancer. Dawn is a singer but I don’t know what genre. I would’ve loved to know her tone of voice, what her music represented, her fan base. It sort of tickled my brain that I didn’t know that. We get know a lot about Raine’s dance background. Initially, the relationship between Dawn and Raine was moving but the storyline was slowing up for me but then PLOT TWIST!! And a good one at the that! One that you don’t see coming! The story then coasted through some hard moments, some sweet feelings right into a HEA which I always appreciate from this author.

[Heather]

Another wonderful story from this author!! The vibes and vibing. The chemistry and connection between Raine and Dawn are just scorching! I adore Dawn’s family and Raine’s well most of her family although her sister grew on me a bit towards the end.

I adored Dawn and how she just lifted up those around her but didn’t let anyone get away with negative behaviors. She was so genuine and loving.

Raine was a powerhouse! She was so strong and brave, beyond talented and also so genuine. With her bestie Ginger and the incredible Dawn on her side, she became gloriously unstoppable;).

Highly recommend!!

[Nina]

Absolutely Love this!

Alexa play, “You Give Good Love” by Whitney Huston because this story was written with so much emotion and care.

Dawn and Raine’s relationship was so beautiful and just an amazing story of what love can be when you open your heart to the universe. The author does a brilliant job in creating an endearing romance while confronting themes of familial relationships, friendship, trauma and more. You get twists, turns, and so much more.

I was blushing, giggling, kicking my feet, and gasping at some scenes. If you haven’t guessed, I recommend you check out this endearing story!

[Terah Reads]

This was honestly such a fun read! Their relationship was so cute and genuine and I loved every moment! I also loved the ending (I won’t spoil it) but I’ve never seen an ending quite like that before and it ended the story on a great note. My only problem was that I felt like we didn’t get to see much from Dawn when it comes to conflict except for one moment and even then it wasn’t hers alone. I wanted to see more from Dawn’s character like maybe a bit of her struggles or something and we just didn’t get it.

[Alexandra]

Aricka Alexander always has a way to make insta-love stories that aren't cringey imo. Raine and Dawn were so stinkin' cute, and I absolutely loved their dynamic. They are so far gone for one another, and it showed throughout the whole story. The plot twists (well, more revelations i guess) toward the end had me gasping, and I always love how Aricka can take a sad/traumatic situation and turn it somewhat around (read and see!).

all-in-all, another sapphic love story full of smushy moments, spice and best friends that make you laugh out loud!

[LaNee Tay]

This story was so well put together. Even with the trauma the love overpowered the trauma. These two beautiful women really needed each other and we’re so good together. It really filled my heart with so much love and admiration. I would definitely recommend this book. This book gave me all the love feels!!

[Lindsey G]

4.5 - your honor, I love them 😭😭 a perfect cozy romance/soft landing for all my sapphics with complicated family dynamics and backstories - you’re worthy of it all xoxo