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The Rhythm of Raine at Dawn: A Black Sapphic Romance
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?
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?
244 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 12, 2026
19 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
About the author
Aricka Alexander
27 books166 followersJust a Black sapphic indie author who loves Black sapphic stories. All of my books are set mostly in Southern Louisiana. I also write YA.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
January 13, 2026
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!
January 2, 2026
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.
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.
January 3, 2026
“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.
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.
January 11, 2026
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 💕📖
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 💕📖
January 15, 2026
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 ⭐️
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 ⭐️
Read
January 16, 2026This 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 whereas the other reveal 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.
I didn't see one major reveal coming whereas the other reveal 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.
Review of advance copy received from Author
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.”
-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.”
January 12, 2026
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.
Review of advance copy received from Author
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.
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.
January 12, 2026
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.
-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.
Review of advance copy received from Author
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.
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.
Review of advance copy received from Author
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.
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.
January 12, 2026
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
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
January 12, 2026
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.
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.
January 12, 2026
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!!
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!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
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.
January 16, 2026
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!!
January 16, 2026
This was such a fun read! I love Raine’s character. I was rooting for her every step of the way. Her experiences with ADHD were very relatable too. Her sister irked my nerves though. I was so glad she checked her! This is such a cute story. You really can’t go wrong with an Aricka Alexander book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
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
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was so good. I love Raine and Dawn so much. I’m honored to have been selected to read this ARC. It shows how one little step out on faith, could literally change your whole life.
January 15, 2026
I loved the Story between them. Beautiful
January 15, 2026
ARC Review: As always, another 5 star read from Aricka Alexander. A great palette cleanser that involves deep heartfelt love and spice 🫠. Raine and Dawn’s story was touching 😍
Aricka Alexander is an auto-buy and auto-read author for me. Her character and story development is top tier ⭐️
Aricka Alexander is an auto-buy and auto-read author for me. Her character and story development is top tier ⭐️
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews