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Heaux Phase
Lyrix is tired of healing quietly. So she escapes to New Orleans for a week of pure Heaux Phase energy. No rules, No expectations, Just vibes.
Then she meets Maison, a smooth-talking local who turns her “just for fun” trip into something hotter, softer, and way more tempting than she planned.
What was supposed to be a little chaos turns into days of chemistry, nights she’ll never forget, and a connection that feels too good to question.
This isn’t a love story. It’s a liberation story.
A messy, sexy, hilarious getaway about choosing yourself… and enjoying whoever shows up along the way.
Then she meets Maison, a smooth-talking local who turns her “just for fun” trip into something hotter, softer, and way more tempting than she planned.
What was supposed to be a little chaos turns into days of chemistry, nights she’ll never forget, and a connection that feels too good to question.
This isn’t a love story. It’s a liberation story.
A messy, sexy, hilarious getaway about choosing yourself… and enjoying whoever shows up along the way.
- GenresRomance
140 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 29, 2025
307 people are currently reading
461 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
January 5, 2026
This book did something to me in the quietest, sweetest way. I went in expecting vibes, freedom, and a little fun, but I walked away feeling like a part of me that I didn’t even realize was tired finally got to exhale.
Watching Lyrix choose herself felt deeply personal. Not in a dramatic, heavy way, but in that soft “you’re allowed to want more” kind of way. Her journey reminded me that healing doesn’t always have to be slow, lonely, or serious. Sometimes it looks like laughter, music, flirting with the moment, and letting joy take up space again.
I smiled through so many parts of this story. Like real smiles. I caught myself nodding along because I could relate to so many pieces of Lyrix. The chemistry, the humor, the warmth...all of it worked together to create something that felt freeing.
What I loved most is how this story healed a part of me without trying to fix anything. It just showed me what it looks like to live, to feel, to be present, and to trust yourself again. By the end, I wasn’t just rooting for Lyrix. I felt encouraged for myself too.
This wasn’t just a read, it was a reminder. And for that alone, it’s an easy five stars.
Watching Lyrix choose herself felt deeply personal. Not in a dramatic, heavy way, but in that soft “you’re allowed to want more” kind of way. Her journey reminded me that healing doesn’t always have to be slow, lonely, or serious. Sometimes it looks like laughter, music, flirting with the moment, and letting joy take up space again.
I smiled through so many parts of this story. Like real smiles. I caught myself nodding along because I could relate to so many pieces of Lyrix. The chemistry, the humor, the warmth...all of it worked together to create something that felt freeing.
What I loved most is how this story healed a part of me without trying to fix anything. It just showed me what it looks like to live, to feel, to be present, and to trust yourself again. By the end, I wasn’t just rooting for Lyrix. I felt encouraged for myself too.
This wasn’t just a read, it was a reminder. And for that alone, it’s an easy five stars.
February 1, 2026
First book club book of 2026 and it wasn't terrible. The premise of this story is very much a journey of healing and having fun even in chaos. The author makes it a point to state that this is not a love story in the sense of a couple falling in love but the main character does learn to love herself. She takes a trip to New Orleans which she calls her "Heaux Phase" as an almost reward for following her therapy regiment for a year and to satisfy her bucket list of sorts.
I felt the story was written well and it was very detailed about the scenery and experiences our main lady was having in New Orleans. Maison was also a pretty cool dude who helped Lyrix have the best time. However the story suffered from a lot of repetition and although the scenery was descriptive, the characters themselves were not described at all. Also, one of the trigger warnings was that there was sex in the story but none of the scenes are explicit; they all fade to black so not sure a trigger warning was needed.
Overall, the story is very tame and you can expect an HFN instead of an HEA.
I felt the story was written well and it was very detailed about the scenery and experiences our main lady was having in New Orleans. Maison was also a pretty cool dude who helped Lyrix have the best time. However the story suffered from a lot of repetition and although the scenery was descriptive, the characters themselves were not described at all. Also, one of the trigger warnings was that there was sex in the story but none of the scenes are explicit; they all fade to black so not sure a trigger warning was needed.
Overall, the story is very tame and you can expect an HFN instead of an HEA.
January 18, 2026
5 ⭐️ OMG this was so cute, so funny, so empowering and so so healing. Every black woman should read this book….doesn’t matter if they’re Single, Married, in a Relationship, Situation-ship whatever. It’s a reminder of how we sometimes forget how magical we are and how we should always be unapologetically ourselves. And that man, that man..*chef’s kiss*
January 20, 2026
10's 10's 10's
From the first line to the last, I was locked in on this healing heaux journey with Lyrix!
Oh what a time! This was a manuel for any woman that needs a reset. A reminder. You are worthy, You are Love, You deserve nice things. This was an incredible story and I was sad to see it end. But, I definitely got the message and I am grateful for it.
From the first line to the last, I was locked in on this healing heaux journey with Lyrix!
Oh what a time! This was a manuel for any woman that needs a reset. A reminder. You are worthy, You are Love, You deserve nice things. This was an incredible story and I was sad to see it end. But, I definitely got the message and I am grateful for it.
January 21, 2026
This was a good time!!! I enjoyed this short read. ❤️
January 31, 2026
I enjoyed reading about NOLA through the character, well the authors, eyes. This book was definitely about self-discovery and allowing yourself to be you again, no hesitations, no regrets, no self-doubts. I enjoyed the MMC. Man, if only he really existed!!! I enjoyed the book. Had some slow parts for me but overall I enjoyed reading about their excursions and how you can find temporary love in a whole new location.
February 15, 2026
This is my first read by this author. I like the culture references and the plot. This book was a fun read for me. I am open to reading other books by this author.
January 14, 2026
I liked this. Just following a woman gain confidence in herself and her choices.
December 21, 2025
** ARC REVIEW**
Lyrix, a single woman tired of healing quietly, embarks on a trip to New Orleans to experience the Heaux Phase vibes. She’s in for a week of fun, unapologetic, and spontaneous love!
During her journey, Lyrix meets Maison, a local BDE gentleman from New Orleans. Together, the Heaux Phase experience becomes one that is truly unforgettable.
While this isn’t a traditional love story, it certainly pulled out a range of emotions tugging at my heart strings . Lyrix’s journey brought on moments of reflection on what healing truly means. As Netra states, “Healing doesn’t always whisper. Sometimes it roars. And the roar sounds a lot like living again.”
Netra has done it once again, given me tools I will take with me daily on this journey. I believe my good sis has a calling in the field of therapy, and I’m grateful to have the opportunity to witness her wisdom through these beautiful stories!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lyrix, a single woman tired of healing quietly, embarks on a trip to New Orleans to experience the Heaux Phase vibes. She’s in for a week of fun, unapologetic, and spontaneous love!
During her journey, Lyrix meets Maison, a local BDE gentleman from New Orleans. Together, the Heaux Phase experience becomes one that is truly unforgettable.
While this isn’t a traditional love story, it certainly pulled out a range of emotions tugging at my heart strings . Lyrix’s journey brought on moments of reflection on what healing truly means. As Netra states, “Healing doesn’t always whisper. Sometimes it roars. And the roar sounds a lot like living again.”
Netra has done it once again, given me tools I will take with me daily on this journey. I believe my good sis has a calling in the field of therapy, and I’m grateful to have the opportunity to witness her wisdom through these beautiful stories!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 12, 2026
An Ode to Black Women Everywhere ❤️
Netra penned this story so beautifully! I absolutely LOVEEE how she redefined the “heaux phase”!
Lyrix’s journey to self discovery through her heaux vision board was cute and different. The little gems she shared along the way were SO GOOD! Some of the biggest takeaways were that you don’t have to heal or find yourself through sadness and isolation — healing and self discovery 💡 also comes through joy and movement! 💃🏽 BE FREE. DO IT SCARED. DO IT ALONE. TRY EVERYTHING & HAVE FUN WHILE DOING SO!
As for Maison — he did what he had to do by showing Lyrix a great time and empowering her through finding herself again!
I appreciated the little nuggets about New Orleans — as a girly who grew up within driving distance to NOLA, this felt exactly like a trip during Mardi Gras season! 🎭
This was the perfect read going into the New Year! Vision boards, self-discovery, and Mardi Gras are all right on theme with the start of a new year. Loved everything about this book!!
Netra penned this story so beautifully! I absolutely LOVEEE how she redefined the “heaux phase”!
Lyrix’s journey to self discovery through her heaux vision board was cute and different. The little gems she shared along the way were SO GOOD! Some of the biggest takeaways were that you don’t have to heal or find yourself through sadness and isolation — healing and self discovery 💡 also comes through joy and movement! 💃🏽 BE FREE. DO IT SCARED. DO IT ALONE. TRY EVERYTHING & HAVE FUN WHILE DOING SO!
As for Maison — he did what he had to do by showing Lyrix a great time and empowering her through finding herself again!
I appreciated the little nuggets about New Orleans — as a girly who grew up within driving distance to NOLA, this felt exactly like a trip during Mardi Gras season! 🎭
This was the perfect read going into the New Year! Vision boards, self-discovery, and Mardi Gras are all right on theme with the start of a new year. Loved everything about this book!!
February 2, 2026
AMAZING!! NTMA! I was not sure what to expect! This was a walk through New Orleans without boarding a plane! A self discovery and beautiful telling of finding YOU! In a City thats made and born for you to live OUT LOUD!! I was amazed at how vivid this was. I could have sworn I smelled spices and Crawfish cooking! 🤣🤣🤣😩 ! Each chapter made me hungry! And she had me wanting to twerk to Big Freedia and shake to “Choppa Style” ! Lol
There was truly a beautiful message in each chapter. I heard every word. The author made me a little misty eyed when she said you dont have to heal alone and in private healing can be done out loud. Lyrix did some HEALING! Some healthy HEAUX PHASE HEALING!
There was truly a beautiful message in each chapter. I heard every word. The author made me a little misty eyed when she said you dont have to heal alone and in private healing can be done out loud. Lyrix did some HEALING! Some healthy HEAUX PHASE HEALING!
December 31, 2025
Did this book just shift my whole top books of 2025 on the last day of the year?? YES IT DID! This book was funny, charming, emotional, relatable and soooooo healing. Did this just make me wanna plan a trip to NOLA soon, BUT OF COURSE! But only during football season ;) WHO DAT?! Maison was a real life Prince Charming and everything about him was a dream. 10/10 I’ve always believed in the Heaux Phase and this book explains it perfectly. I miss Lyrix and Maison already. NETRA YOU REALLY DO NOT MISS.
February 15, 2026
A Phase I Didn't Know I Needed
Listennnnn... this was everythang! 🎭 As a NOLA gurl, born n raised, this hit close to home. This book screamed heal, release, live, and freedom—all while heauxin! It completely redefines the labels society puts on us and gives you permission to just BE without the weight of judgment. Highly recommended and appreciated! 💜💛💚
Listennnnn... this was everythang! 🎭 As a NOLA gurl, born n raised, this hit close to home. This book screamed heal, release, live, and freedom—all while heauxin! It completely redefines the labels society puts on us and gives you permission to just BE without the weight of judgment. Highly recommended and appreciated! 💜💛💚
January 3, 2026
Oh my God. As a New Orleans girl born raised and transplanted elsewhere, I loved this story. It captured the true heart of what my home USED TO BE. I know it follows the story of a tourist, but Madison felt like home. I needed this
January 18, 2026
This book was so good. I feel like everyone woman needs a heaux phase and the way this one played out was so beyond just being a thot. This was healing for the soul. Shoot made me wanna book a trip back to New Orleans.
January 24, 2026
Wasn’t expecting this book to put me in my feelings in the best way but here we are.
February 21, 2026
This book was amazing I loved every second of it
January 19, 2026
A Phase Worth Experiencing
Sooo this book healed parts of me I didn’t even realize needed healing.
No, I’m not single or currently in my heaux phase. I’ve been married for 11 years but Lyrix still reached me in a way that felt loud, personal, and honest. At some point in life, a lot of women forget who they are. We forget what it feels like to let go, to live freely, to choose ourselves without guilt. Lyrix had forgotten… and her journey reminded me just how necessary that rediscovery can be.
Her heaux phase wasn’t reckless. It was required. Every experience mattered. Every moment pushed her closer to herself. This book was a beautiful reminder that you deserve to live your best life. Laugh out loud. Dance like no one is watching even if that means twerking on Bourbon Street 😌. Relish the small moments. Embrace the woman you become along the way.
I really, really enjoyed this story. It was fun, freeing, emotional, and reflective all at once. And whew… I almost cried with Lyrix when she had to walk away. That moment hurt in the most real way.
I do hope we get more of Lyrix and Maison because I’m not ready to let them go just yet. Such a good, soul-touching read.
Sooo this book healed parts of me I didn’t even realize needed healing.
No, I’m not single or currently in my heaux phase. I’ve been married for 11 years but Lyrix still reached me in a way that felt loud, personal, and honest. At some point in life, a lot of women forget who they are. We forget what it feels like to let go, to live freely, to choose ourselves without guilt. Lyrix had forgotten… and her journey reminded me just how necessary that rediscovery can be.
Her heaux phase wasn’t reckless. It was required. Every experience mattered. Every moment pushed her closer to herself. This book was a beautiful reminder that you deserve to live your best life. Laugh out loud. Dance like no one is watching even if that means twerking on Bourbon Street 😌. Relish the small moments. Embrace the woman you become along the way.
I really, really enjoyed this story. It was fun, freeing, emotional, and reflective all at once. And whew… I almost cried with Lyrix when she had to walk away. That moment hurt in the most real way.
I do hope we get more of Lyrix and Maison because I’m not ready to let them go just yet. Such a good, soul-touching read.
January 25, 2026
Nola Me
Nola Me please!!! This book takes you not just on one trip but two. Yes we travel to Nola but we always travel with the character on spiritual healing journey with Maison as a great guide. I recommend this book for those seeking internal healing!
Nola Me please!!! This book takes you not just on one trip but two. Yes we travel to Nola but we always travel with the character on spiritual healing journey with Maison as a great guide. I recommend this book for those seeking internal healing!
January 19, 2026
Not to be dramatic, but this healed something in me.
Starting from the authors note, even if it’s not where you are in this moment, we’ve all been on this kind of journey back to self and it was beautiful to see on page.
Netra can write her ass off. I legitimately felt like I was in New Orleans again.
Starting from the authors note, even if it’s not where you are in this moment, we’ve all been on this kind of journey back to self and it was beautiful to see on page.
Netra can write her ass off. I legitimately felt like I was in New Orleans again.
February 8, 2026
Laughter, vibes and finding yourself
I saw the cover and was immediately intrigued. Then I saw a few IG posts recommending it and added it to my TBR. Next, a close friend told me she read it in 1 sitting, so I went ahead and purchased it and got to reading. Best decision!
Lyrix has spent a year relearning herself. Out of a bad relationship, she sought the help of a therapist to figure out if she’s the problem. What she realized is that she’s used to shrinking to fit into a relationship. She’s been told she’s “too much” her whole life. Maybe it’s time to find someone who wants her just as she is.
And that brings her to New Orleans for her “Heaux Phase” trip. She’s going to spend a week there, enjoy herself beyond measure, “Heaux” it up and spend Valentine’s Day celebrating herself.
She drops her luggage in the room and immediately ventures out to see what shenanigans New Orleans has on deck. She meets Maison working at the very first bar she ventures into and he gets her right and liquored up to start her adventures. While the first afternoon has her regretting her choices, she decides to reach out to Maison (who slipped her his number before she left) to see if he can give her a locals guide to his city. That sets us up to witness Lyrix getting the real side of New Orleans that the locals keep to themselves.
This book kept me smiling. Lyrix and Maison were always laughing, smiling and smirking. There was dancing, drinking, twerking. Kissing on sidewalks, grinding on dance floors. There’s a definite energy to this story. It’s sexy but not in an overt way. It’s easy and soft and light. They talk about any and everything with honesty.
I usually don’t enjoy story’s told only from 1 POV, but it made sense here. We’re only in New Orleans because Lyrix chose it. While Maison is a part of the story, he’s a part of HER story; Lyrix is the main character, gives off true main character energy and Maison is only here because Lyrix allows it.
I also don’t typically like close door romances. The author isn’t shy about letting us know that they’re doing grown up thangs, but it’s not explicitly written. That’s usually a turnoff but the author makes it ok. You get the intimacy and I found I didn’t mind having to use my own imagination about their sexy sexy times.
All in all, this book is a love letter to self discovery and self love. She says as much. You don’t need someone else to feel whole. Loving on yourself can be satisfaction enough.
I saw the cover and was immediately intrigued. Then I saw a few IG posts recommending it and added it to my TBR. Next, a close friend told me she read it in 1 sitting, so I went ahead and purchased it and got to reading. Best decision!
Lyrix has spent a year relearning herself. Out of a bad relationship, she sought the help of a therapist to figure out if she’s the problem. What she realized is that she’s used to shrinking to fit into a relationship. She’s been told she’s “too much” her whole life. Maybe it’s time to find someone who wants her just as she is.
And that brings her to New Orleans for her “Heaux Phase” trip. She’s going to spend a week there, enjoy herself beyond measure, “Heaux” it up and spend Valentine’s Day celebrating herself.
She drops her luggage in the room and immediately ventures out to see what shenanigans New Orleans has on deck. She meets Maison working at the very first bar she ventures into and he gets her right and liquored up to start her adventures. While the first afternoon has her regretting her choices, she decides to reach out to Maison (who slipped her his number before she left) to see if he can give her a locals guide to his city. That sets us up to witness Lyrix getting the real side of New Orleans that the locals keep to themselves.
This book kept me smiling. Lyrix and Maison were always laughing, smiling and smirking. There was dancing, drinking, twerking. Kissing on sidewalks, grinding on dance floors. There’s a definite energy to this story. It’s sexy but not in an overt way. It’s easy and soft and light. They talk about any and everything with honesty.
I usually don’t enjoy story’s told only from 1 POV, but it made sense here. We’re only in New Orleans because Lyrix chose it. While Maison is a part of the story, he’s a part of HER story; Lyrix is the main character, gives off true main character energy and Maison is only here because Lyrix allows it.
I also don’t typically like close door romances. The author isn’t shy about letting us know that they’re doing grown up thangs, but it’s not explicitly written. That’s usually a turnoff but the author makes it ok. You get the intimacy and I found I didn’t mind having to use my own imagination about their sexy sexy times.
All in all, this book is a love letter to self discovery and self love. She says as much. You don’t need someone else to feel whole. Loving on yourself can be satisfaction enough.
February 21, 2026
heaux phase by netra antoinette isn’t really a romance — it’s a reclamation story dressed up in flirtation, chemistry, and a little new orleans magic.
lyrix doesn’t go to nola looking for love. she goes looking for herself. tired of healing in silence and playing it safe, she gives herself permission to exist loudly for once — no expectations, no pressure, just living. what makes the story hit is that her journey never feels like she’s running from something, but finally allowing herself to move toward joy.
then comes maison.
maison isn’t just the smooth local love interest — he’s the energy shift. what starts as vacation-level fun slowly turns into something softer, deeper, and more intentional than lyrix planned for. their chemistry feels natural, warm, and grounded in the kind of attraction that’s equal parts playful and emotionally safe. he doesn’t overpower her journey — he complements it, which makes the connection feel earned instead of forced.
the real heart of the book, though, is the atmosphere. the nola setting isn’t background decoration — it breathes through the story. the music, the movement, the tarot, the nightlife, the laughter, the food, the freedom… it all creates this immersive feeling like you’re watching someone step into the life they finally feel allowed to live.
what stood out most is how the book treats liberation. it doesn’t frame self-discovery as perfectly polished or deeply tragic. instead, it shows it as messy, joyful, sensual, sometimes funny, and very human. lyrix isn’t suddenly healed — she’s just finally honest with herself, and that honesty changes everything.
if you go in expecting a traditional love story, you might miss the point. this is about choosing yourself first… and realizing love feels different when you do.
recommend if you like:
• soft but confident female leads
• vacation romance energy
• stories about self-discovery and freedom
• settings that feel like a character on their own
• chemistry that grows naturally instead of instantly
lyrix doesn’t go to nola looking for love. she goes looking for herself. tired of healing in silence and playing it safe, she gives herself permission to exist loudly for once — no expectations, no pressure, just living. what makes the story hit is that her journey never feels like she’s running from something, but finally allowing herself to move toward joy.
then comes maison.
maison isn’t just the smooth local love interest — he’s the energy shift. what starts as vacation-level fun slowly turns into something softer, deeper, and more intentional than lyrix planned for. their chemistry feels natural, warm, and grounded in the kind of attraction that’s equal parts playful and emotionally safe. he doesn’t overpower her journey — he complements it, which makes the connection feel earned instead of forced.
the real heart of the book, though, is the atmosphere. the nola setting isn’t background decoration — it breathes through the story. the music, the movement, the tarot, the nightlife, the laughter, the food, the freedom… it all creates this immersive feeling like you’re watching someone step into the life they finally feel allowed to live.
what stood out most is how the book treats liberation. it doesn’t frame self-discovery as perfectly polished or deeply tragic. instead, it shows it as messy, joyful, sensual, sometimes funny, and very human. lyrix isn’t suddenly healed — she’s just finally honest with herself, and that honesty changes everything.
if you go in expecting a traditional love story, you might miss the point. this is about choosing yourself first… and realizing love feels different when you do.
recommend if you like:
• soft but confident female leads
• vacation romance energy
• stories about self-discovery and freedom
• settings that feel like a character on their own
• chemistry that grows naturally instead of instantly
December 17, 2025
Arc Review
Release date 1/1/2026
A quick Novella but packed with a punch! The story follows Lyrix who is single and has been dating herself for a year and on a healing journey.
She needs a moment to be free so she creates a vision board and books a solo trip to New Orleans and that’s where her Heaux Phase begins!
A week that was just supposed to be just a little fun turns out to be a whole experience that she will never forget .
I loved this book so much I read it slow because i never wanted it to end. As a single girlie myself that is also on a healing journey I felt so seen. I felt all the emotions. Learning to choose yourself and do whatever makes you happy and live in the moment without a care in the world . To live carefree without judgement ! To feel seen! To be treated the way you deserve to be treated just to know what it feels like and to know you do deserve to feel those things ! There’s nothing wrong with you “you just need someone with the right map”
Thank you for the opportunity to read your book! You write amazing stories with your whole chest and I feel it every time i read one of your books! My heart is so full! I’m in tears . I don’t even know what to read after this . It left me needing to process everything and self reflect! You’re changing lives with your story telling! Thank you
Release date 1/1/2026
A quick Novella but packed with a punch! The story follows Lyrix who is single and has been dating herself for a year and on a healing journey.
She needs a moment to be free so she creates a vision board and books a solo trip to New Orleans and that’s where her Heaux Phase begins!
A week that was just supposed to be just a little fun turns out to be a whole experience that she will never forget .
I loved this book so much I read it slow because i never wanted it to end. As a single girlie myself that is also on a healing journey I felt so seen. I felt all the emotions. Learning to choose yourself and do whatever makes you happy and live in the moment without a care in the world . To live carefree without judgement ! To feel seen! To be treated the way you deserve to be treated just to know what it feels like and to know you do deserve to feel those things ! There’s nothing wrong with you “you just need someone with the right map”
Thank you for the opportunity to read your book! You write amazing stories with your whole chest and I feel it every time i read one of your books! My heart is so full! I’m in tears . I don’t even know what to read after this . It left me needing to process everything and self reflect! You’re changing lives with your story telling! Thank you
January 23, 2026
sometimes a heaux phase is needed to reset
This book is for the woman who is done whisper-healing.
Done journaling through the pain.
Done shrinking her joy to make heartbreak feel more polite.
She packs her bags and takes her tired spirit to New Orleans—not to be saved, not to be softened, but to feel. This is a week of Heaux Phase energy in its purest form: no rules, no expectations, just vibes and a refusal to explain herself to anyone.
Enter Maison.
Smooth-talking, dangerously charming, and very aware of the effect he has. He’s supposed to be temporary—just a flirt, just a moment, just fun. But the city has other plans. What starts as playful chaos turns into lingering looks, late-night laughter, and a connection that sneaks up on her when her guard is down and her glass is half full.
Their chemistry is effortless. The banter is sharp. The attraction is undeniable. And yet—this story isn’t about being chosen. It’s about choosing yourself and letting desire be part of the healing instead of something you apologize for.
This isn’t a love story.
It’s a liberation story.
Messy. Sexy. Laugh-out-loud funny. Tender when you least expect it. The Heaux Phase captures that reckless, beautiful moment when a woman stops asking for permission to enjoy her life—and enjoys whoever shows up along the way.
This book is for the woman who is done whisper-healing.
Done journaling through the pain.
Done shrinking her joy to make heartbreak feel more polite.
She packs her bags and takes her tired spirit to New Orleans—not to be saved, not to be softened, but to feel. This is a week of Heaux Phase energy in its purest form: no rules, no expectations, just vibes and a refusal to explain herself to anyone.
Enter Maison.
Smooth-talking, dangerously charming, and very aware of the effect he has. He’s supposed to be temporary—just a flirt, just a moment, just fun. But the city has other plans. What starts as playful chaos turns into lingering looks, late-night laughter, and a connection that sneaks up on her when her guard is down and her glass is half full.
Their chemistry is effortless. The banter is sharp. The attraction is undeniable. And yet—this story isn’t about being chosen. It’s about choosing yourself and letting desire be part of the healing instead of something you apologize for.
This isn’t a love story.
It’s a liberation story.
Messy. Sexy. Laugh-out-loud funny. Tender when you least expect it. The Heaux Phase captures that reckless, beautiful moment when a woman stops asking for permission to enjoy her life—and enjoys whoever shows up along the way.
January 21, 2026
Fun Nola Romp
This could've easily been a 5 star review but I have some qualms with the premise of the story. Lyrix is supposed to be enjoying a heaux phase but she isn't a heaux, she gets booed up and shown a great time. I'll give her credit for putting herself out there. She booked the trip, flirted with the first fine man she saw and stuck to her plan to check things off her list. She didn't shrink herself or second guess herself. As experiences arose, she stepped into them without fear. But a man continued to pour into her, to remind her of her worth. She didn't have revelations on her own.
I'm glad she went on this adventure but this isn't what I would call a heaux phase. She certainly lived out loud, and with the help of a fine ass local who had the cash, time and desire to turn her out, she had an experience of a lifetime. It was very Eat Pray Love:Nola edition.
I adore New Orleans. I fell in love with that city and I'm always trying to go back. If I could have the same experience Lyrix had with Maison, I'd jump at the chance too. Overall I loved this story. I know what everything looked smelled sounded tasted and felt like. What's worse is that it's Mardi Gras season right now so I know it's lit just like this story.
Thanks for the ride!!
This could've easily been a 5 star review but I have some qualms with the premise of the story. Lyrix is supposed to be enjoying a heaux phase but she isn't a heaux, she gets booed up and shown a great time. I'll give her credit for putting herself out there. She booked the trip, flirted with the first fine man she saw and stuck to her plan to check things off her list. She didn't shrink herself or second guess herself. As experiences arose, she stepped into them without fear. But a man continued to pour into her, to remind her of her worth. She didn't have revelations on her own.
I'm glad she went on this adventure but this isn't what I would call a heaux phase. She certainly lived out loud, and with the help of a fine ass local who had the cash, time and desire to turn her out, she had an experience of a lifetime. It was very Eat Pray Love:Nola edition.
I adore New Orleans. I fell in love with that city and I'm always trying to go back. If I could have the same experience Lyrix had with Maison, I'd jump at the chance too. Overall I loved this story. I know what everything looked smelled sounded tasted and felt like. What's worse is that it's Mardi Gras season right now so I know it's lit just like this story.
Thanks for the ride!!
January 16, 2026
Wow!!
This is probably the second book I have read that has brought me to tears…in a good way. This book was like a love letter to myself. To remind me that life is still going to continue no matter what stage of healing you are in, and to give myself all the grace I need. I loved every sentence of this book and how it was curated to serve as another reminder that self-healing is all about how you perceive it to be. Lyrix is definitely that girl and always will be! I loved how she was able to find herself again, find a little romance, and take it for what it was. I was on the fence on whether I wanted Lyrix and Maison to become official, however, I’m satisfied with the ending of the story. To me it signifies that we as women can have our perfect love story especially after experiencing what the possibilities could be! This was my first time reading a book by Netra Antionette and it definitely will not be my last book! A short and sweet book that is embedded forever in my heart.
This is probably the second book I have read that has brought me to tears…in a good way. This book was like a love letter to myself. To remind me that life is still going to continue no matter what stage of healing you are in, and to give myself all the grace I need. I loved every sentence of this book and how it was curated to serve as another reminder that self-healing is all about how you perceive it to be. Lyrix is definitely that girl and always will be! I loved how she was able to find herself again, find a little romance, and take it for what it was. I was on the fence on whether I wanted Lyrix and Maison to become official, however, I’m satisfied with the ending of the story. To me it signifies that we as women can have our perfect love story especially after experiencing what the possibilities could be! This was my first time reading a book by Netra Antionette and it definitely will not be my last book! A short and sweet book that is embedded forever in my heart.
February 19, 2026
Freeing
That’s the first word that comes to mind when I think back on this book. I absolutely loved the way this was written, especially how lyrix was finding herself and she didn’t let anything come before that not even romance, but what I will say is Maison is the PERFECT man for this book. He met lyrix exactly where she was and let her find the freedom she was seeking while still showing her a level of care that will not be easily duplicated. With all that being said , I love that the romance feel to the back burner and focused on self healing but I still need them back together by St. Patty’s day !! Because WHEW this paring was so spectacular I can’t let you leave me right there 😭 I indeed booked my NOLA trip for next Valentine’s Day because I need to see what’s tea… but until then … ST PATTYS DAY or a strongly worded email about my book slump being your fault will be in your inbox !! 10/10 a book everyone should experience about a experience everyone one should have !!
That’s the first word that comes to mind when I think back on this book. I absolutely loved the way this was written, especially how lyrix was finding herself and she didn’t let anything come before that not even romance, but what I will say is Maison is the PERFECT man for this book. He met lyrix exactly where she was and let her find the freedom she was seeking while still showing her a level of care that will not be easily duplicated. With all that being said , I love that the romance feel to the back burner and focused on self healing but I still need them back together by St. Patty’s day !! Because WHEW this paring was so spectacular I can’t let you leave me right there 😭 I indeed booked my NOLA trip for next Valentine’s Day because I need to see what’s tea… but until then … ST PATTYS DAY or a strongly worded email about my book slump being your fault will be in your inbox !! 10/10 a book everyone should experience about a experience everyone one should have !!
January 4, 2026
More Than a Book — A Mirror
This book felt like more than a book. It felt like a reflection. A letter written to the woman inside of me. In so many ways, it mirrored my own story of healing, longing, and becoming, and it did so with both tenderness and humor. I laughed out loud. I cried unexpectedly. I felt seen.
Reading it reminded me of who I’ve been and who I’m becoming. It even took me back to the season when I took myself on a solo trip to New Orleans— curious, brave, learning how to enjoy my own company and taste freedom again. That’s what this book does: it brings you back to yourself.
2025 was a year of very quiet, private healing for me, and reading this at the start of 2026 felt like a loud whisper to the version of me learning how to live out loud again. It reminded me that healing doesn’t always look like stillness, and joy doesn’t need to be tamed.
This book didn’t just move me, it recognized me. And for that, I’m deeply grateful.
This book felt like more than a book. It felt like a reflection. A letter written to the woman inside of me. In so many ways, it mirrored my own story of healing, longing, and becoming, and it did so with both tenderness and humor. I laughed out loud. I cried unexpectedly. I felt seen.
Reading it reminded me of who I’ve been and who I’m becoming. It even took me back to the season when I took myself on a solo trip to New Orleans— curious, brave, learning how to enjoy my own company and taste freedom again. That’s what this book does: it brings you back to yourself.
2025 was a year of very quiet, private healing for me, and reading this at the start of 2026 felt like a loud whisper to the version of me learning how to live out loud again. It reminded me that healing doesn’t always look like stillness, and joy doesn’t need to be tamed.
This book didn’t just move me, it recognized me. And for that, I’m deeply grateful.
January 17, 2026
This book met me exactly where I didn’t know I needed it. It felt like a gentle release, like a version of me that had been holding tension for far too long was finally allowed to rest.
Seeing Lyrix choose herself was quietly powerful. As a woman, that book felt liberating. It reminded me that wanting more isn’t selfish, and that joy doesn’t have to be earned through struggle. Healing can be playful. It can be filled with music, connection, laughter, and moments that feel good simply because they do.
I found myself smiling often recognizing pieces of myself in Lyrix along the way. The humor, the chemistry, the warmth of the story all blended into something that felt open and freeing, like permission to loosen my grip and enjoy being present. By the end, I wasn’t only cheering for Lyrix, I felt encouraged in my own life too.
This book wasn’t just a story. It was a reminder of freedom, softness, and self-trust.
Seeing Lyrix choose herself was quietly powerful. As a woman, that book felt liberating. It reminded me that wanting more isn’t selfish, and that joy doesn’t have to be earned through struggle. Healing can be playful. It can be filled with music, connection, laughter, and moments that feel good simply because they do.
I found myself smiling often recognizing pieces of myself in Lyrix along the way. The humor, the chemistry, the warmth of the story all blended into something that felt open and freeing, like permission to loosen my grip and enjoy being present. By the end, I wasn’t only cheering for Lyrix, I felt encouraged in my own life too.
This book wasn’t just a story. It was a reminder of freedom, softness, and self-trust.
February 10, 2026
Honestly? I actually really enjoyed this book 👏🏽👏🏽 I kept hearing good things about it, and I’m happy to say that I wasn’t disappointed at all. Netra Antionette actually understands what it’s like to be a woman who is just done.
The connection between Lyrix and Maison was everything. Their chemistry had me cracking up the entire time. Lyrix is an absolute trip, and Maison is a problem in the best possible way. Watching them play off each other in New Orleans was the highlight of the book for me.
But beneath the laughs, there is so much truth. We spend so much time "healing," "journaling," and "doing the work" that we forget how to actually live. Lyrix is all of us.
She’s every woman who has played by the rules and still felt like she was losing. Seeing her decide to be "selfish" in the Big Easy was the most cathartic thing I’ve read all year.
If you want a book that makes you laugh out loud while simultaneously giving you permission to choose yourself, this is it. 🥂
The connection between Lyrix and Maison was everything. Their chemistry had me cracking up the entire time. Lyrix is an absolute trip, and Maison is a problem in the best possible way. Watching them play off each other in New Orleans was the highlight of the book for me.
But beneath the laughs, there is so much truth. We spend so much time "healing," "journaling," and "doing the work" that we forget how to actually live. Lyrix is all of us.
She’s every woman who has played by the rules and still felt like she was losing. Seeing her decide to be "selfish" in the Big Easy was the most cathartic thing I’ve read all year.
If you want a book that makes you laugh out loud while simultaneously giving you permission to choose yourself, this is it. 🥂
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