What do you think?
Rate this book
Different with Us: A Friends to Lovers Romance
Grai Harlowe
The love I had for my children’s father faded a long time ago. I didn’t stay for him, but because I was a high-school dropout who truly believed he was the best I could do. I couldn’t have been more wrong. When he kicks me and my kids out with nowhere to go, there’s only one place left to the home of the man who’s always been more than a friend. Lyrix has been my safe place, my support, and my soul mate in every sense of the word. He shows up every time I call, no questions asked. But now that we’re under the same roof, the lines I’ve drawn to protect our friendship are starting to blur into a beautiful portrait with the golden, magnetic hues of forever.
Lyrix “Poppa” Mercer
There’s no limit to the love I have for Grai and her boys. I was there for their first breaths, their first steps, their first lost teeth. Grai has been the one constant in my life, serving as not only my best friend but my heart. I’ve always seen the possibility of forever in her, but she stayed loyal to a man who never deserved her . . . until fate forced her hand. Now they’re living in my house, and the dream I’ve quietly held for years of being a real family is starting to feel dangerously close. But then I kissed her. Tasted her. Claimed what was never supposed to be mine. And now? Nothing is safe. Not our friendship. Not my heart. Because if I lose Grai, I lose everything.
The love I had for my children’s father faded a long time ago. I didn’t stay for him, but because I was a high-school dropout who truly believed he was the best I could do. I couldn’t have been more wrong. When he kicks me and my kids out with nowhere to go, there’s only one place left to the home of the man who’s always been more than a friend. Lyrix has been my safe place, my support, and my soul mate in every sense of the word. He shows up every time I call, no questions asked. But now that we’re under the same roof, the lines I’ve drawn to protect our friendship are starting to blur into a beautiful portrait with the golden, magnetic hues of forever.
Lyrix “Poppa” Mercer
There’s no limit to the love I have for Grai and her boys. I was there for their first breaths, their first steps, their first lost teeth. Grai has been the one constant in my life, serving as not only my best friend but my heart. I’ve always seen the possibility of forever in her, but she stayed loyal to a man who never deserved her . . . until fate forced her hand. Now they’re living in my house, and the dream I’ve quietly held for years of being a real family is starting to feel dangerously close. But then I kissed her. Tasted her. Claimed what was never supposed to be mine. And now? Nothing is safe. Not our friendship. Not my heart. Because if I lose Grai, I lose everything.
- GenresFriends To Lovers
181 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 15, 2025
159 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
February 6, 2026
* Okay this is going to be long one. I enjoy the friends to lovers trope but this might as well have been lovers to lovers or whatever we want to call it. I’ve never read two people be in a relationship more than Grai and Lyrix. Here’s my issues with the book. Everything that happens in the book largely relies on my inference as a reader, when it’s things that SHOULDNT rely on my inference as reader. The story begins referencing a “Poppa” which apparently isn’t nicknamed for grandpa. The three times this man is mentioned at first, he is never introduced. No this is my best friend this is how we met. Nothing. Okay cool whatever but Grai herself is never formerly introduced, I didn’t even know homegirls name. Her name isn’t even mentioned, save for the chapter pov headings until page 6 and even then no introduction. Pivoting slightly while I’m on the subject Poppa/Lyrix Grai/Bubbles are all used interchangeably often in the same sentence/conversation. That’s annoying to say something for example: Poppa was taking the boys to school, they loved Lyrix. And you never get the back story with the names because apparently every one calls him Poppa and he only calls her Bubbles. A white gay character was written with a blaccent also specifically written for casual homophobia and stereotypes. Speaking of Grai CANNOT be a GM at a “luxury hotel”, the books words not mine. Hotel management usually requires a degree, Grai didn’t graduate high school which also confusing because the books words specifically states she was 19 when she gave birth and very stupidly got pregnant 6 weeks later so her dropping out of high school makes NO sense, she should have graduated already. Going back to people not being properly introduced, Mama Dee and most ergreiously Drey. There is not statement about that man prior to Connor saying he was in the hotel. I started this review at 3 in the morning I’m reclaiming my sanity and time there are so much more inconsistencies but eh I’m tired.
January 22, 2026
Best friends to Lovers
Best friends to lovers is my favorite trope. I actually started reading this with my best friend turned husband. I finished before him because it was so good. Now I have to figure out how to break the news that o read on without him lol
Best friends to lovers is my favorite trope. I actually started reading this with my best friend turned husband. I finished before him because it was so good. Now I have to figure out how to break the news that o read on without him lol
February 3, 2026
Loved it!!
I absolutely loved this book!! I have been reading Faith J since she mad her debut with BLP and I have loved every single book she has released! She is one of my authors that when she releases a new book, I pause my TBR reading a read her new release so I don’t fall behind.
Bubbles and Poppa… Grai and Lyrix… they have been best friends since elementary school and have supported each other through everything!! Bad relationships, teen pregnancy, starting a business, whatever life gives them, they have been each other’s biggest support, so when Grai’s baby daddy/ boyfriend cheats and puts her and their sons out of course her best friend takes her in so she and her boy’s will have a safe place to stay.
Everyone around them see the love the share for each other except them because in their eyes they are each others rock and biggest support and don’t want to mess up their friendship. That’s until close proximity opens their eyes and they surrender to who God created them to be for each other. And once they stop fighting their feelings the rest is history!!
This best friends to lover romance is so well written that you will not be able to put it down! So go ahead and add it to your TBR, you won’t be disappointed!
I absolutely loved this book!! I have been reading Faith J since she mad her debut with BLP and I have loved every single book she has released! She is one of my authors that when she releases a new book, I pause my TBR reading a read her new release so I don’t fall behind.
Bubbles and Poppa… Grai and Lyrix… they have been best friends since elementary school and have supported each other through everything!! Bad relationships, teen pregnancy, starting a business, whatever life gives them, they have been each other’s biggest support, so when Grai’s baby daddy/ boyfriend cheats and puts her and their sons out of course her best friend takes her in so she and her boy’s will have a safe place to stay.
Everyone around them see the love the share for each other except them because in their eyes they are each others rock and biggest support and don’t want to mess up their friendship. That’s until close proximity opens their eyes and they surrender to who God created them to be for each other. And once they stop fighting their feelings the rest is history!!
This best friends to lover romance is so well written that you will not be able to put it down! So go ahead and add it to your TBR, you won’t be disappointed!
December 19, 2025
I found this book scrolling on Tiktok. LET ME TELL YOU SOMETHING!! It was a really good read! This author is new to me, but I am definitely open to reading more from here.
One of my favorite tropes is friends to lovers, but I definitely hated that it was SO long & SO much bullshit between them before Grai gave Lyrix the chance that they deserved. He loved those boys so much he called them his and was there for them more than that damn daddy!
This book gave the MC's their HEA's though so I couldn't be happier. Lyrix was the one that had been under her nose the entire time and they BOTH knew it. Chile... the timeline was fast and slow at the same time (I don't know how to explain it lol). Like, it went from days to like weeks & then it as like, Winter to Spring & BOOM we're at Christmas lol. However, I was also happy that it wasn't being dragged out like we've seen in other books. Would love to see another book with them.
One of my favorite tropes is friends to lovers, but I definitely hated that it was SO long & SO much bullshit between them before Grai gave Lyrix the chance that they deserved. He loved those boys so much he called them his and was there for them more than that damn daddy!
This book gave the MC's their HEA's though so I couldn't be happier. Lyrix was the one that had been under her nose the entire time and they BOTH knew it. Chile... the timeline was fast and slow at the same time (I don't know how to explain it lol). Like, it went from days to like weeks & then it as like, Winter to Spring & BOOM we're at Christmas lol. However, I was also happy that it wasn't being dragged out like we've seen in other books. Would love to see another book with them.
January 15, 2026
Poppa and Grai!!
Lyrix (Poppa) and Grai (Bubbles) have been friends since the second grade and have remained close since that time. This was a very good heart-warming book that just made me feel happy the whole time that I was reading it. Poppa didn't play about his Bubbles and his sons. He didn't care who he had to protect them against. I loved how he got Grai's mother all the way straight. I really, really disliked Grai's ex, Drey. He was foul for his behavior at her job and for the things he said and did. I had to laugh when I read the scene at the hospital when Grai was thinking that Drey was going to need their help after Poppa got finished with him. 😂 Beautifully written friends to lovers book that showed how 20 years of friendship between Poppa and Grai developed into them becoming soulmates in the end. Great job!!
Lyrix (Poppa) and Grai (Bubbles) have been friends since the second grade and have remained close since that time. This was a very good heart-warming book that just made me feel happy the whole time that I was reading it. Poppa didn't play about his Bubbles and his sons. He didn't care who he had to protect them against. I loved how he got Grai's mother all the way straight. I really, really disliked Grai's ex, Drey. He was foul for his behavior at her job and for the things he said and did. I had to laugh when I read the scene at the hospital when Grai was thinking that Drey was going to need their help after Poppa got finished with him. 😂 Beautifully written friends to lovers book that showed how 20 years of friendship between Poppa and Grai developed into them becoming soulmates in the end. Great job!!
December 17, 2025
I always love a friends to lover story when they’re pretty much already in a relationship and everyone but them can see that they’re end game 🤣. Grai’s BD was trash but little did they all know, his actions would set her happily ever after in motion. I love how supportive, protective, and attentive Lyrix was not just to Grai but to her sons as well. He didn’t hesitate to let anyone know that he’d burn it all down behind those 3. There was a nice smidgen of drama that wrapped up pretty quickly and left room for us to settle into witnessing their blossoming romance. Lyrix definitely was a loverboy and I loved that for her. Overall the story had likeable characters, decent banter, and good pacing.
January 18, 2026
If I was your best friend…
What a beautiful story! And yes, I cried at the end, so 🥹
Poppa is another one of my favorite characters. I was on his team as soon as he called them “his”. 😭
Grai was a sweetheart for real. I wasn’t too fond of her mother though. How you a hater!?
That baby daddy of hers was a real piece of work and I wasn’t too fond glad he disappeared from the storyline.
That hospital scene… If you only want that oath you take to apply to those that look like you, do not work in a public hospital. I wasn’t too fond so upset about that part. No woman should ever feel like that bringing life into the world. 💔💔
Okay, now, back to this very cute love story. I loved their friendship. I also love that they didn’t lose it.
What a beautiful story! And yes, I cried at the end, so 🥹
Poppa is another one of my favorite characters. I was on his team as soon as he called them “his”. 😭
Grai was a sweetheart for real. I wasn’t too fond of her mother though. How you a hater!?
That baby daddy of hers was a real piece of work and I wasn’t too fond glad he disappeared from the storyline.
That hospital scene… If you only want that oath you take to apply to those that look like you, do not work in a public hospital. I wasn’t too fond so upset about that part. No woman should ever feel like that bringing life into the world. 💔💔
Okay, now, back to this very cute love story. I loved their friendship. I also love that they didn’t lose it.
December 26, 2025
I pray that every woman finds a man like Lyrix!
Grai & Lyrix were meant to be. From childhood besties to marriage. Their little family is complete now with baby girl.
I hope her ex is having the life he deserves.
I hope the racist staff at the hospital is fired. I’m so happy medical racism was mentioned in the book because so many black women deal with this. White women in the healthcare field are a threat for black women. I love that Lyrix spoke up immediately!
Grai & Lyrix were meant to be. From childhood besties to marriage. Their little family is complete now with baby girl.
I hope her ex is having the life he deserves.
I hope the racist staff at the hospital is fired. I’m so happy medical racism was mentioned in the book because so many black women deal with this. White women in the healthcare field are a threat for black women. I love that Lyrix spoke up immediately!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2026
I loved this book ! Being friends with someone for years and truly loving them and what comes with them without crossing lines even though you know that’s your person is commendable 🥰🥰!
Poppa didn’t play about “HIS BOYS” or his Bubbles he came behind them ten toes down no matter who he was going up against!!!
&& them getting that happy ending 🤞🏾❤️ Best Friends to Soulmates !
This book was written beautifully!
Poppa didn’t play about “HIS BOYS” or his Bubbles he came behind them ten toes down no matter who he was going up against!!!
&& them getting that happy ending 🤞🏾❤️ Best Friends to Soulmates !
This book was written beautifully!
December 19, 2025
This was a bit different type of friends to lovers romance than what I'm used to reading. Grai and Lyrix had a type of love that was untouchable. The storyline in this one kept me involved and interested in what was going to come next. I was cheering on Poppa since he popped up on the page ! I love a man that loves hard for family and friends. Standing ten toes down not caring who they got to chin check.
Go on and read this one !
Go on and read this one !
December 20, 2025
loved it
Bubbles and Poppa were so good together. I loved the love that they had for each other. Drey is a just a sorry excuse for a man. I understood that as parents we have to make some stuff decisions but we need to always listen to our kids because they have a voice and should be able make decisions. Glad everything worked out for everyone.
Bubbles and Poppa were so good together. I loved the love that they had for each other. Drey is a just a sorry excuse for a man. I understood that as parents we have to make some stuff decisions but we need to always listen to our kids because they have a voice and should be able make decisions. Glad everything worked out for everyone.
December 23, 2025
His Forever
I was not ready for the up and down deepness of this story. I LOVED LOVED LOVED Lyrix. Grai had the bestest friend on earth. Baby daddy was trash but what did you expect from someone who didn't respect or love you.
He deserved everything that happened to him.
Get into this book.
I was not ready for the up and down deepness of this story. I LOVED LOVED LOVED Lyrix. Grai had the bestest friend on earth. Baby daddy was trash but what did you expect from someone who didn't respect or love you.
He deserved everything that happened to him.
Get into this book.
February 1, 2026
Great read
What a cute book. Poppa did not play about broccoli head at all. It’s refreshing to read a book about a male character that doesn’t sell drugs but stand behind and stand up for a female like he does. Poppa didn’t care who you were he was bringing heat to anyone who tried to hurt bubbles even her damn mama.
What a cute book. Poppa did not play about broccoli head at all. It’s refreshing to read a book about a male character that doesn’t sell drugs but stand behind and stand up for a female like he does. Poppa didn’t care who you were he was bringing heat to anyone who tried to hurt bubbles even her damn mama.
February 10, 2026
Different with Us
Grai and Poppa’s friendship was the perfect backdrop for their relationship to bloom. Aside from the fiasco with Drey and his lack of co-parenting, Poppa stepped in and was the epitome of what a father should be. Grai had the complete package with Poppa-best friend, lover, male figure for the boys and finally husband.
Grai and Poppa’s friendship was the perfect backdrop for their relationship to bloom. Aside from the fiasco with Drey and his lack of co-parenting, Poppa stepped in and was the epitome of what a father should be. Grai had the complete package with Poppa-best friend, lover, male figure for the boys and finally husband.
December 16, 2025
Friend to Lovers
Friends to lovers always gets me, and Grai & Lyrix delivered. Their friendship was solid and heartfelt, with Lyrix showing up as a genuine protector for her and the boys. I really enjoyed seeing that foundation turn into something deeper.
Friends to lovers always gets me, and Grai & Lyrix delivered. Their friendship was solid and heartfelt, with Lyrix showing up as a genuine protector for her and the boys. I really enjoyed seeing that foundation turn into something deeper.
December 29, 2025
Grai and Lyrix
This book was a great read. The ups and downs Grai experienced with no good Drey made the ending special to me. God’s timing is everything when it comes to love and right person. Lyrix was a solid friend, lover, and great father to their children.
This book was a great read. The ups and downs Grai experienced with no good Drey made the ending special to me. God’s timing is everything when it comes to love and right person. Lyrix was a solid friend, lover, and great father to their children.
January 3, 2026
Lyrix is the Best Bestfriend
I actually came across this book in my book suggestions and glad I clicked. I wasn't sure what I was getting but the book did not disappoint. If you're looking for a friends to lovers standalone this is the read for you.
I actually came across this book in my book suggestions and glad I clicked. I wasn't sure what I was getting but the book did not disappoint. If you're looking for a friends to lovers standalone this is the read for you.
January 13, 2026
cute read
This was a relatable quick read I love the relationship between Grai and Lyrix the way he showed up her & the boys now I must say that Drey must wanted to be caught what he rent a room where she worked just trifling
This was a relatable quick read I love the relationship between Grai and Lyrix the way he showed up her & the boys now I must say that Drey must wanted to be caught what he rent a room where she worked just trifling
January 14, 2026
Loved It💞💞
Such a sweet love story💕💕 , story of a single mother and her best friend Poppa. Poppa was a total alpha when it came to Grai and her two sons. Everyone could see that they were meant for each other, but they couldn't. So happy they got their HEA. Kudos to the author👏🏾
Such a sweet love story💕💕 , story of a single mother and her best friend Poppa. Poppa was a total alpha when it came to Grai and her two sons. Everyone could see that they were meant for each other, but they couldn't. So happy they got their HEA. Kudos to the author👏🏾
February 10, 2026
Love love
This book has its drama however the love the faith and the love in this book is amazing. This is a amazing read and was different than most of the urban books I read, yet this author will ne followed by me and her books will be read by me.
This book has its drama however the love the faith and the love in this book is amazing. This is a amazing read and was different than most of the urban books I read, yet this author will ne followed by me and her books will be read by me.
February 10, 2026
Good Romance 3.5
Friends to Lovers and you can feel the love from page 1. Good quick read. I loved the way Lynx loved her boys. Not a lot of drama just a quick friends to lovers romance
Friends to Lovers and you can feel the love from page 1. Good quick read. I loved the way Lynx loved her boys. Not a lot of drama just a quick friends to lovers romance
February 15, 2026
Feels!!
Poppa was the BIG man and then some! I enjoyed this read from beginning to end. Bubbles and her kids were his to protect and provide for and he didn’t want to hear otherwise. This was such a warming friends to lovers read!
Poppa was the BIG man and then some! I enjoyed this read from beginning to end. Bubbles and her kids were his to protect and provide for and he didn’t want to hear otherwise. This was such a warming friends to lovers read!
December 17, 2025
I usually love this trope but idk 🤷🏾♀️
December 19, 2025
3.5 for me!
January 2, 2026
Beautiful!!!!
This book was definitely beautiful. I didnt want to put it down. Inloved the loved between Grai and Poppa. He definitely did not play about her and his boys.
This book was definitely beautiful. I didnt want to put it down. Inloved the loved between Grai and Poppa. He definitely did not play about her and his boys.
January 4, 2026
Good read
This was a good friends to lovers read. Lyric was the greatest friend a girl could have while secretly pining for Grai. The two boys Solace and Shiloh were the sweetest.
This was a good friends to lovers read. Lyric was the greatest friend a girl could have while secretly pining for Grai. The two boys Solace and Shiloh were the sweetest.
January 13, 2026
Good read. I love a good romance read.
January 18, 2026
Friends to lovers books are the best this one did not disappoint
January 22, 2026
The way Lyrix loved Grai and her boys. That hospital scene had me crying so much!
January 31, 2026
predictable
It was a very… juvenile and predictable read. The fact that Grai just laid up with this man and didn’t at least get a GED is crazy work.
It was a very… juvenile and predictable read. The fact that Grai just laid up with this man and didn’t at least get a GED is crazy work.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews