Happy Birthday, Mr. President

by Shay Dawn

Ava and Preston grew up together in the rough streets of Sleighton, both doing everything they needed to survive. Over time, their childhood friendship evolved into a fiery love story. Their flames are suddenly extinguished when Ava left without a word, leaving Preston to wonder where they went wrong.

Never quite getting over her. He used his pain as fuel to achieve success that he never thought possible.

At the same time, Ava used her passion and natural talents to climb her way to superstardom.

For Preston's very first birthday in The Oval Office he only wants one gift, a special performance from his favorite artist of all time–the one he affectionately calls His Songbird. As much as Ava wants to turn him down, she finds herself on a flight to D.C. to look into the eyes of the only man to ever hold her heart.

They can't have forever, but one night couldn't hurt… Right?

Genres: Second Chance, Novella

80 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 28, 2025

Reviews

[Jaleesa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Happy Birthday Indeed

I went into this blind but based on her debut I felt like I was going to enjoy this one and enjoy it I did! The pacing worked really weak for me and I the flashbacks didn’t throw anything off. Pres and Ava though, I love their whole dynamic. Talk about a soul tie. I actually could’ve used a few more chapters because I need to know what happens next with these two.

[Shamoya Radcliffe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another good time by Ms Shay Dawn.

One night with the president on his birthday, how can you say no

When grammy winning superstar Ava is invited to the president birthday party to sing for his birthday, you would think this is the opportunity of a lifetime so why isn't she happy to be there. Preston aka Pres aka Mr President isn't just any president, he is black, fine and the youngest president. He had one request for his birthday and that is to have his favorite singer perform for him.

I loved this story so much, it was a little messy, filled with feelings, and unfinished business. They both were putting each other through it. It was giving a younger Olivia & Fitz from scandal but both very black and childhood friends. The tension when they first met up it was THIQUE. the flashbacks added so much layer and answered any questions I had as I read the story.

I didn't want it to end i wanted more of them

[Bunny · Rating 5 out of 5]

ALEXA! Play “Yes it is” x Leon Thomas!!!! 😮‍💨

A couple with a degrading kink? And the power switching! OWEEEE 🫦


SHAYYYYYYY!? Baby this was so MFN GOODT! Wow! 🥹 This story really makes you realize some people are truly just meant to be. No matter what their family, friends, or colleagues think.

The back stories of them growing up together. The ONE thing that separated thing. Mannnn. THIS! Was a story for the books. LITERALLY!

And I’ll just be waiting for book 2. Cause ain’t no way you left us like that sista.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MR. PRESIDENT 💋🫣🤤🔥

[Monique · Rating 4 out of 5]

What would you do if you only had one night with your one true love that got away from you years ago??? Why you put her through the mattress of course! Think Olivia & Fitz. So much passion & great chemistry. This is a “It was always you and will always be you, but we have careers and secrets so we can never be together” kinda story. Despite its short length, Shay provided us with a complete story and complex dynamics. I wouldn’t be mad at a full length story with them.

[CiCi · Rating 4 out of 5]

My my my 🤭

This was not at all what I expected and I LOVED it
I mean what’s not to love: a little friends to lovers, second chance situation with important people in high places. Now throw in some BDE, he’s her protector but also a down on his knees beg for it type.
Yeaaaaaaa a vibe for sure


For this to be a novella, the story had depth….
I’d like a part two cause I feel like we have some things to unpack and I’d love to see the HEA play out

[Danni Phantom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hey Mr President

Shay just don’t miss. I loved that we got flashbacks of them together I really hope we get a second book with them together they were perfect

[EricaLenise · Rating 4 out of 5]

For a quick 79-page read, this little erotic novella had history. Ava and Preston had YEARS worth of feelings packed into these pages. Ava really thought this man was supposed to chase her after she dipped like a thief in the night because he stepped off the plan they made for their future. Girl, please.

Meanwhile Preston was mad-mad because his mama was out here running her mouth on behalf of a son she barely raised. It always be the moms that weren’t on the job trying to be deep in the business. Every time.

A lot of ground got covered in this short read, but Shay Dawn did a great job giving us an actual story and not just straight-up sex on page. It was messy, grown, and entertaining in the best way.

[Darcy J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐️ 3.5🌶️
Yes, a five star novella. Ava and Preston really kept me entertained and left me wanting so much more even though the author ended it on a good note.

Ava and Preston are the true definition of best friends to lover's. I enjoyed learning about their backstory. The timeline jumps were not hard to follow at all. We were able to get their full story in a short amount of time. The love, the sacrifice, and the understanding these two had had me questioning my own morals. I know they say that sometimes things happen in life with the right people but the wrong time and this one just might be the perfect example. To me, Ava and Preston are soulmates and nothing can change that.

There’s one character I wanted out of here but for once, it didn’t stop me from giving this one a five and that’s huge!
Loved this one and would love an update one day!

[Authoress Nadia Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

A short read that packs the heat! 🔥🔥🔥

Happy Birthday, Mr. President by Shay Dawn is a short, erotic novella that wastes zero time delivering drama, desire, and delicious tension.

Ava Melody is a singer hired to perform at the President’s birthday party only to come face-to-face with the one who got away. And whew… the moment they reconnect, the chemistry is loud, unresolved, and impossible to ignore.

This story serves spice, emotion, and just enough angst to keep the pages turning fast. Shay Dawn does an amazing job of packing big feelings and even bigger heat into a quick read that still feels satisfying and complete.

I won’t give too much away, but if you love second-chance romance, powerful men, and messy feelings wrapped in sensual tension….this one delivers.

A fast read that packs a huge punch. I devoured it and loved every second. 🔥🎂🇺🇸

[TrueBookJunkie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shay Dawn is a new author with a promising future in the literary world, if this novella is any indication. I loved everything about this book, even the dedication tickled me! She created a novella that read like a full-length novel and although the story ended on somewhat of a cliffhanger, I saw it as room for more in the future because I would absolutely enjoy more of Pres and Ava!
This story had everything I look for when reading. I would definitely list this one as erotica because wheeew that balcony scene🙌🏾 IYKYK! There were also other components that made this read enjoyable; the inner dialogue from the main characters as well as their banter was A1. This author gave a great storyline where we got the history of the main characters (with minimal flashbacks) that explained and flowed with current events. She has also released Love at a Funeral which I can't wait to get into because she has definitely gained a new reader!

[TheReaderVert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Perfect Erotica Novella that hit all the notes

We had some good freaky freaky scenes. A set-up perfect for fantasy fulfillment and a MMC, Preston aka Mr President who knows how to hit that spot, fall to his knees, yolk you up if need be and dirty talk you into a puddle. Ava was a straight menace to him to though. Definitely gave as good as she got. Loved reading this Black Erotica and hope spun off in another reality that the Pres and Songbird get their true HEA.

[Denise Newman · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved it

I absolutely loved this novella!!

The history between Ava and Preston was well written and all I wanted for them was to allow the other to love them but life happens. She loved him so much that she walked away so he could be who he was destined to be because he would have giving it all up to protect her.

If you love a second chance romance with a lot of back story, you will love this novella!

[Lexi · Rating 5 out of 5]

BABY best friends to lovers to strangers…one last night with the love of your life AND a lil bit of cheating. You know what…HELL YEAH😜

Preston and Ava’s story was giving “right person, wrong time”. The flashbacks had me locked in, because you really get to see how deep their bond went and how they ended up where they are now. For this to only be 79 pages. The way Ms Shay packed in EMOTION,SPICE and MESS? Whew!

And listen… can we puuuuuuhhhhhhllllllease get a part 2?! I need a TRUE HEA for these two. Like yesterday 😭

[5 Star Delta · Rating 4 out of 5]

So there was much hype about this book on social media because of the author’s page. I was hoping my expectations were met and not just a marketing ploy.

When I put it on my TBR, I didn’t realize it was a novella. I have a love hate relationship with novellas b/c I’m always left wanting more.

This story did not disappoint. I loved the friends to lovers story and the flashbacks; but I truly feel like this could’ve been a full book.

I have read more intriguing “erotic!

[Vonetta Evans · Rating 4 out of 5]

While this wasn't a romance book which was made clear in the author's note, you did see the history between Ava and Preston and in a way I kind of empathized with both of them. Although they both got to be in the careers they chose when they were younger it was at the cost of them being together unbeknownst to Preston.

For this birthday he knew that he wanted to see her again to find out what happened all those years ago and what kept her away regardless of his current situation. Even though she said she didn't want to have anything to do with him, her body said otherwise. Although I don't usually condone cheating, in this case I didn't mind it.

This definitely gave what I was looking for in an erotica and it told a full story in a short time. The ending had me wanting more and hoping that we can get another book with these characters to maybe give them a second chance.....

[She Reads What She Wants · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now listen… if the first, and let’s be real, probably the only, man you ever truly loved pops back up after 12 years asking you to perform at his birthday party, how exactly are you supposed to say no?

Oh, and plot twist, that man just so happens to be the President of the United States.
AND he’s engaged.
To a woman who is your complete opposite.

So yeah… you don’t say no. You pack your bags, hop on the private jet they sent for you, and sing your entire heart out. Period. 😌

Now what happens after that?
Yeah… y’all gotta read the book. I’m not about to spoil it for you because this is a quick read (under 100 pages), and every page counts.

What I will say is this: for this being the author’s second book, Shay Dawn absolutely did her thing. The story was engaging, emotional, and left me satisfied without dragging anything out.

Easy five stars for me. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Short, sweet, and worth your time, go get into it. 📚✨

[L. Kennedy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Happy Birthday, Mr. President!

Is such a good little novella that leaves you wanting more. It had good pacing and added past scenes were implemented well. You could feel the tension, the love, the built up lust and affection that had been stored away for many years only to be released on one special night.

This wasn’t a HEA kind of story, but it’s a we’ll always have each other in our hearts for a lifetime.

I’d love to read more about Ava and Preston.

[Melody · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m a fan, I’m a fan, I’m a fan!

There is nothing like an amazing novella to get you back in the groove of reading. Preston & Ava’s story was absolutely beautiful. This is my first Shay Dawn read and it’s clear that she is an amazing writer. It’s not easy to take less than 100 pages and give a full storyline that doesn’t feel rushed or as if anything is left out. My thirst has been quenched, but I’m ready for the next one.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I know Shay Dawn said this book isn’t a romance, but I’d argue that it is. Preston and Ava don’t get a HEA but the love they have for one another is ever present.

And morally speaking, I know infidelity is wrong and I actually despise it however…I really liked Preston and Ava 🫣 I also liked that flashback scenes were included to show that their love runs DEEP. I’m rooting for them. I hope Shay Dawn releases a book in the future where Preston and Ava can work it out.

[Allison Dulaney · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s rare for me to feel like a novella is a well rounded and complete story but this one was and it surprised me. The main characters back story is truly the story in my opinion; while the present day adds to the complete picture, it also is most definitely the part that makes this an erotica. This book was actually touching and heartbreaking for me. What can I say I’m a sucker for love period but especially that one true soul mate level love.

[JadeRein · Rating 4 out of 5]

Damn!

I got hooked via the title! It was a fast paced read, giving you everything you need to keep you hooked.

From the Marilyn Monroe vibe, to the Luda/Usher, Lovers and Friends. The light exploration of exhibitionism with a few others made it a enjoyable read.

The way it ended, I'll be expecting a part 2.

[JackeeisBusyReading · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shay Dawn warns you this is not a Romance but, i wanted it to be one so damn bad. There is 12 years of separation and a tricky birthday party appearance that just makes you fall in love with these characters. I enjoyed this read.

lol there a little cheating but I ain’t mad at it! I don’t even like second chances but, I really want Ava and Pres to get theirs eventually 🤣

[Tanesha Abernathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another one…

Listen, if you haven’t read Love at a Funeral yet, I don’t know what you’re waiting on. This is another one for the books and who knew we would get it before the end of the year and so soon after the first one. It’s a novella but still it hits! It has spice and a great storyline…no disappointments here.

[Taija Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

NOT a romance!!

I’m so glad i read the authors note because the way my heart was aching for these two to reconcile, it’s not a romance. Just a nice short story about 2 friends who have literally been through the wringer together, growing up and growing apart and then getting freaky!! I love them together. But this is NOT a romance!!

[Damise Vaughn · Rating 5 out of 5]

yessssssss Ava and Preston

This was such a well written Novella that it didn’t feel like a novella. This was a completed story and written in such a magnificent way. No lie, I laughed out loud and a couple of times cried real tears because of their story. This was a beautiful love story that let me escape 2025 for a minute.

[Candyce Adkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fiery hit it & quit it that packs a punch!!

I loved all Shay Dawn was able to accomplish in under 80 pages. The chemistry between Ava & Preston was HOT 🥵 and we got just enough backstory to tie this erotica together nicely.

Definitely recommend you read this if you’re in a book slump or as a palette cleanser.

[Tandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 ⭐️

Happy Birthday, Mr. President by Shay Dawn is a short, spicy, and ridiculously fun. Shay Dawn delivers a bold, flirty fantasy that knows exactly what it’s here to do—and does it well. The chemistry is instant, the tension is delicious, and the spice hits fast without feeling rushed.

Perfect for when you want a quick, indulgent read that leaves you smiling and a little breathless. 🔥

[Stephanie June · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ouuweee 😉

Oh Songbird and Mr. President were something nasty and I was here for it. Great short story. I was really hoping that he would go in on his people for now knowing what they said to her…maybe even grab that box and give her the gift. But guess we wont know 😉. And when I say they were nasty…OH THEY WAS NASTY NASTY lol.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.50 ⭐️ 💻 I saw a Booktoker post about this book’s Dedication and I immediately ran to show my support for the author. I’ll forever support any and everyone that puts themselves out there doing what they love and allows me to experience their craft in the process. I enjoyed all 79 pages of this. Keep them coming!

[Kimberly Vargas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Listen, I rarely fall for characters this fast, but this story had me hooked immediately. I rolled my eyes at Bianca more than once, and Davis became an instant favorite 🤭

I loved this story from start to finish. The twists at the end genuinely caught me off guard and made everything that much more satisfying. Easy 5⭐️ for me. I cannot wait to read more from Shay Dawn.