What do you think?
Rate this book
Where We Belong
She’s built her success on control.
Love was never part of the plan.
Janelle Price has earned everything she has—respect, authority, and a near-flawless record at one of Washington, D.C.’s most prestigious accounting firms. Calm under pressure and relentlessly precise, she’s known by a nickname she never The Glacier. Unflappable. Distant. Impossible to read.
Now, partnership is within reach—but not guaranteed.
When Janelle learns the final decision will be influenced during an exclusive partners’ retreat focused on culture and connection, she’s forced to confront an uncomfortable excellence alone won’t be enough. The partners don’t question her competence. They question whether she belongs.
Enter Aaron Williams. Former college friend. Almost-something. A Magnolia State alum with effortless charm and a warmth Janelle has always quietly admired. When circumstances push them into attending the retreat together, what begins as a strategic arrangement quickly reopens unresolved feelings—and exposes the emotional cost of the armor Janelle has worn for years.
As professional lines blur and the past refuses to stay buried, Janelle must decide what success truly requires. Because strength doesn’t have to mean emotional distance. And being seen doesn’t have to mean losing control.
A clean, emotionally rich contemporary romance about ambition, vulnerability, and finding love where you least expect it.
Love was never part of the plan.
Janelle Price has earned everything she has—respect, authority, and a near-flawless record at one of Washington, D.C.’s most prestigious accounting firms. Calm under pressure and relentlessly precise, she’s known by a nickname she never The Glacier. Unflappable. Distant. Impossible to read.
Now, partnership is within reach—but not guaranteed.
When Janelle learns the final decision will be influenced during an exclusive partners’ retreat focused on culture and connection, she’s forced to confront an uncomfortable excellence alone won’t be enough. The partners don’t question her competence. They question whether she belongs.
Enter Aaron Williams. Former college friend. Almost-something. A Magnolia State alum with effortless charm and a warmth Janelle has always quietly admired. When circumstances push them into attending the retreat together, what begins as a strategic arrangement quickly reopens unresolved feelings—and exposes the emotional cost of the armor Janelle has worn for years.
As professional lines blur and the past refuses to stay buried, Janelle must decide what success truly requires. Because strength doesn’t have to mean emotional distance. And being seen doesn’t have to mean losing control.
A clean, emotionally rich contemporary romance about ambition, vulnerability, and finding love where you least expect it.
242 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 27, 2026
11 people want to read
About the author
Charlotte Dinnis
29 books37 followersCharlotte loves reading romance novels as much as she does writing them. She spends her days dreaming of new stories to share with all of you. She lives in Washington DC with her husband and son.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
February 15, 2026
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️
Tropes: Fake dating, forced proximity, friends to lovers, second chance
Thank you to Black Romance Book Tour for the ARC! This was my first time reading this author, and she absolutely delivered.
I’ve never read a romance with zero spice before, so that was new territory for me—but honestly? It didn’t need it. The chemistry, the longing, the tension between Janelle and Aaron carried this story beautifully. The slow burn was slow burning exactly the way it should.
This was such a refreshing read, especially in the middle of some heavier books this month. It felt light without lacking depth, and I truly appreciated that balance.
Now listen… Janelle was testing my patience toward the end 😂 but I respected her growth. She was absolutely playing in Aaron’s face for a minute there, and sir did not deserve that. Aaron? A GOOD MAN. The patience? Elite. The consistency? Chef’s kiss. I loved how steady he remained, even when Janelle was caught up in her own fears and ambitions.
One of the themes that really stood out to me was the reminder not to lose yourself to your career—especially as a Black woman navigating success. The message about making space for love, joy, and personal fulfillment alongside ambition felt powerful and necessary.
If I had one critique, I would have loved more scenes of them simply dating and living life outside of work. Since this is a workplace romance, most of the story understandably unfolds in that setting—but a few more moments of them just being together would have made it even stronger for me.
Overall, this was a solid introduction to Charlotte’s writing, and I’m definitely interested in reading more from her.
Tropes: Fake dating, forced proximity, friends to lovers, second chance
Thank you to Black Romance Book Tour for the ARC! This was my first time reading this author, and she absolutely delivered.
I’ve never read a romance with zero spice before, so that was new territory for me—but honestly? It didn’t need it. The chemistry, the longing, the tension between Janelle and Aaron carried this story beautifully. The slow burn was slow burning exactly the way it should.
This was such a refreshing read, especially in the middle of some heavier books this month. It felt light without lacking depth, and I truly appreciated that balance.
Now listen… Janelle was testing my patience toward the end 😂 but I respected her growth. She was absolutely playing in Aaron’s face for a minute there, and sir did not deserve that. Aaron? A GOOD MAN. The patience? Elite. The consistency? Chef’s kiss. I loved how steady he remained, even when Janelle was caught up in her own fears and ambitions.
One of the themes that really stood out to me was the reminder not to lose yourself to your career—especially as a Black woman navigating success. The message about making space for love, joy, and personal fulfillment alongside ambition felt powerful and necessary.
If I had one critique, I would have loved more scenes of them simply dating and living life outside of work. Since this is a workplace romance, most of the story understandably unfolds in that setting—but a few more moments of them just being together would have made it even stronger for me.
Overall, this was a solid introduction to Charlotte’s writing, and I’m definitely interested in reading more from her.
February 18, 2026
Thank you BRBF Book Tours for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This story captures the journey Janelle and Aaron take from being best friends to being the partner each of them deserves. It was a long road of unspoken feelings, tiptoeing the line between friendship and more, and learning to show up authentically as themselves.
Janelle was definitely selfish in her treatment of Aaron despite being best friends. She did not show up for him nearly as much as he showed up for her. She definitely had a lot on her plate. Being a black woman with ambition had her under heavy scrutiny at work. She had to navigate the corporate ladder and adhere to unspoken rules without fully losing herself. She spent so much time structuring her life and job to attain the partner role that she forgot that life is supposed to be lived in a way that brings you joy. In the process of her figuring that out she dragged Aaron through the mud. Pushing him away until she needed him and then expecting him to be okay with it was a lot. Even her apology was done in the most selfish way. Like girl quit playing with his emotions.
Aaron was entirely too selfless at times. If Janelle said jump he would say how high. He was unwilling to prioritize his own happiness for way too long. If anything he almost willingly put his heart in harms way to be there for her in anyway she needed. His love for Janelle was steady and enduring. He loved her with a quiet consistency that she took for granted. It took him so long to vocalize his feelings but I’m glad he eventually stopped martyring himself. Aaron had to learn not to accept the bare minimum and that he deserved someone who would also put him first.
This was my first book by Charlotte Dinnis and I can definitely see myself reading more. There were a few inconsistencies that took me out of the story at times but overall I enjoyed the story. The story was character driven and the characters gave what they were supposed to give. They were realistic and the emotions portrayed made so much sense considering who the characters were. I’m excited to read the next book.
This story captures the journey Janelle and Aaron take from being best friends to being the partner each of them deserves. It was a long road of unspoken feelings, tiptoeing the line between friendship and more, and learning to show up authentically as themselves.
Janelle was definitely selfish in her treatment of Aaron despite being best friends. She did not show up for him nearly as much as he showed up for her. She definitely had a lot on her plate. Being a black woman with ambition had her under heavy scrutiny at work. She had to navigate the corporate ladder and adhere to unspoken rules without fully losing herself. She spent so much time structuring her life and job to attain the partner role that she forgot that life is supposed to be lived in a way that brings you joy. In the process of her figuring that out she dragged Aaron through the mud. Pushing him away until she needed him and then expecting him to be okay with it was a lot. Even her apology was done in the most selfish way. Like girl quit playing with his emotions.
Aaron was entirely too selfless at times. If Janelle said jump he would say how high. He was unwilling to prioritize his own happiness for way too long. If anything he almost willingly put his heart in harms way to be there for her in anyway she needed. His love for Janelle was steady and enduring. He loved her with a quiet consistency that she took for granted. It took him so long to vocalize his feelings but I’m glad he eventually stopped martyring himself. Aaron had to learn not to accept the bare minimum and that he deserved someone who would also put him first.
This was my first book by Charlotte Dinnis and I can definitely see myself reading more. There were a few inconsistencies that took me out of the story at times but overall I enjoyed the story. The story was character driven and the characters gave what they were supposed to give. They were realistic and the emotions portrayed made so much sense considering who the characters were. I’m excited to read the next book.
February 12, 2026
🆀🆄🅸🅲🅺 🆃🅷🅾🆄🅶🅷🆃🆂
This was my first read by Charlotte Dinnis, and I think she did a wonderful job. She took her time developing the characters, making them feel real and relatable. While this is a low-spice, kisses-only romance, the chemistry was undeniable. The yearning, the longing, the emotional pull, was all there. You could truly feel how much Janelle and Aaron wanted each other, even though they refused to admit it.
If you are looking for a sweet, soft, slow love story about learning to let go and following your heart, this one is definitely worth the read.
Thank you, Charlotte Dinnis and Black Romance Book Tours for the gifted copy!
🅳🅴🆃🅰🅸🅻🅴🅳 🆁🅴🆅🅸🅴🆆
This was a sweet, slow-burn love story about two college best friends who have been quietly in love with each other for years but spent a decade fighting their feelings. Janelle Price is the definition of composed, contained, and controlled. Her life is carefully planned, and nothing, not even love, is allowed to interfere with her ultimate goal of making partner at her accounting firm. After all the sacrifices she’s made to get this far, risking her future for matters of the heart feels unthinkable.
Enter Aaron Williams. Aaron is her college best friend. After ten years of friendship, he has become her constant. He is the man who has loved her all along. And though those feelings have never been reciprocated, and Aaron has been forced to keep his true feelings a secret, when Janelle needs a boyfriend to help her secure her dream of partnership, Aaron offers to play the role. After a work weekend getaway, the lines between pretending and reality begin to blur. Forced proximity and fake dating push them to confront the feelings they’ve both been avoiding. Will love finally win, or will Janelle’s need for control cost her the one person who has always been there?
I enjoyed this read. Janelle was Black Girl Magic when it came to her career. She was driven, ambitious, and laser focused on her career. I really appreciated this about her and found it to be very inspiration. However, at times, I wanted to shake her and say, “Baby girl, let go and allow yourself to feel.” What is professional success if there’s nothing and no one waiting for you at home?
Aaron was everything Janelle wanted and needed in her life. He always loved her, supported her, and saw her for who she was, when others refused to do so. I have to be honest. At times, the way Janelle treated Aaron had me rolling my eyes. I felt a little sad and sometimes mad at her, when I saw how her inability to be honest about her feelings had him feeling like he wasn’t enough. But watching them finally get out of their own way and choose each other brought me real joy.
This was my first read by this author, and I think she did a wonderful job. She took her time developing the characters, making them feel real and relatable. While this is a low-spice, kisses-only romance, the chemistry was undeniable. The yearning, the longing, the emotional pull, was all there. You could truly feel how much they wanted each other, even when they refused to admit it.
In the end, this story reminds us that sometimes what or who we’ve been searching for our entire lives could have been right in front of us all along, so we need to open our eyes and be honest with ourselves when it comes to love.
If you’re looking for a sweet, soft, slow love story about second chances, friendship-to-love, and learning to let go and follow your heart, this one is definitely worth the read.
🆆🅷🅰🆃 🆃🅾 🅴🆇🅿🅴🅲🆃
👫🏽 College Friends to Lovers
🧢 Fake Dating
💏 Forced Proximity
💼 Workplace Romance
❤️ Soft Love
⌛ Second Chances
This was my first read by Charlotte Dinnis, and I think she did a wonderful job. She took her time developing the characters, making them feel real and relatable. While this is a low-spice, kisses-only romance, the chemistry was undeniable. The yearning, the longing, the emotional pull, was all there. You could truly feel how much Janelle and Aaron wanted each other, even though they refused to admit it.
If you are looking for a sweet, soft, slow love story about learning to let go and following your heart, this one is definitely worth the read.
Thank you, Charlotte Dinnis and Black Romance Book Tours for the gifted copy!
🅳🅴🆃🅰🅸🅻🅴🅳 🆁🅴🆅🅸🅴🆆
This was a sweet, slow-burn love story about two college best friends who have been quietly in love with each other for years but spent a decade fighting their feelings. Janelle Price is the definition of composed, contained, and controlled. Her life is carefully planned, and nothing, not even love, is allowed to interfere with her ultimate goal of making partner at her accounting firm. After all the sacrifices she’s made to get this far, risking her future for matters of the heart feels unthinkable.
Enter Aaron Williams. Aaron is her college best friend. After ten years of friendship, he has become her constant. He is the man who has loved her all along. And though those feelings have never been reciprocated, and Aaron has been forced to keep his true feelings a secret, when Janelle needs a boyfriend to help her secure her dream of partnership, Aaron offers to play the role. After a work weekend getaway, the lines between pretending and reality begin to blur. Forced proximity and fake dating push them to confront the feelings they’ve both been avoiding. Will love finally win, or will Janelle’s need for control cost her the one person who has always been there?
I enjoyed this read. Janelle was Black Girl Magic when it came to her career. She was driven, ambitious, and laser focused on her career. I really appreciated this about her and found it to be very inspiration. However, at times, I wanted to shake her and say, “Baby girl, let go and allow yourself to feel.” What is professional success if there’s nothing and no one waiting for you at home?
Aaron was everything Janelle wanted and needed in her life. He always loved her, supported her, and saw her for who she was, when others refused to do so. I have to be honest. At times, the way Janelle treated Aaron had me rolling my eyes. I felt a little sad and sometimes mad at her, when I saw how her inability to be honest about her feelings had him feeling like he wasn’t enough. But watching them finally get out of their own way and choose each other brought me real joy.
This was my first read by this author, and I think she did a wonderful job. She took her time developing the characters, making them feel real and relatable. While this is a low-spice, kisses-only romance, the chemistry was undeniable. The yearning, the longing, the emotional pull, was all there. You could truly feel how much they wanted each other, even when they refused to admit it.
In the end, this story reminds us that sometimes what or who we’ve been searching for our entire lives could have been right in front of us all along, so we need to open our eyes and be honest with ourselves when it comes to love.
If you’re looking for a sweet, soft, slow love story about second chances, friendship-to-love, and learning to let go and follow your heart, this one is definitely worth the read.
🆆🅷🅰🆃 🆃🅾 🅴🆇🅿🅴🅲🆃
👫🏽 College Friends to Lovers
🧢 Fake Dating
💏 Forced Proximity
💼 Workplace Romance
❤️ Soft Love
⌛ Second Chances
February 23, 2026
“This wasn’t just about falling backward into Aaron’s arms. It was about relinquishing control, showing vulnerability, trusting someone else to support her when she’d spent years proving she didn’t need support from anyone.”
Where We Belong by Charlotte Dinnis is book one in the Alumni Love series. Set in Washington, D.C., we’re introduced to Janelle Price, a senior accountant at the prestigious HB&A accounting firm, fighting to become a partner. But things fall apart when it’s heavily implied she’s not the “complete package” without a man on her arm or a ring on her finger for the annual company retreat. Enter her best friend, Aaron the Architect, to the rescue. They decide to enter a fake dating arrangement to secure Janelle’s future, with only one bed and forced proximity galore. But their charade threatens to reveal the truth of the feelings underpinning a decade of friendship between two ambitious people who everyone else clocks as more than just friends.
“In the morning, they would resume their roles, careful and calculated. But here, in the quiet of their cabin with wine and firelight between them, they were just Aaron and Janelle, the way they’d always been.”
Realistic and refreshing, I felt very seen as a Black woman navigating the treacherous waters of American work culture and the social expectations thrust upon us. Having to play “The Game ©” while also being twice as good and judged for not having a man in a high-demand profession was painfully relatable. While I enjoy reading highly competent FMCs, it was really nice seeing Janelle realize she doesn’t have to go it alone. Or, more like, she never has, and now it’s time to take the next step with Aaron. It’s always nice to read literature rejecting the lie that to be soft and vulnerable to someone who genuinely loves you, someone you say you trust, is a sign of weakness. While it got repetitive in some places, I also liked that it was dual-POV. Aaron, after years of waiting, got his well-deserved happily-ever-after. But not without standing up for himself and realizing he’s worth more than an afterthought in any relationship, whether it’s fake, genuine friendship, or romantic. And any man who knows how to cook is an instant heartthrob in my honest opinion! I’m excited to read book two about Janelle’s girlfriend, Sarai. 4.5/5🌟s
Recommended for Readers who Love:
— best friends-to-lovers,
— classic romance tropes sealed with a sweet kiss,
— and, a Black woman FMC embracing vulnerability as a gift
Thank you, BRBF Book Tours, for sending me a digital advance reader copy. You can find more of my reviews on social media at @crownebooks or ww.crownebooks.com.
Where We Belong by Charlotte Dinnis is book one in the Alumni Love series. Set in Washington, D.C., we’re introduced to Janelle Price, a senior accountant at the prestigious HB&A accounting firm, fighting to become a partner. But things fall apart when it’s heavily implied she’s not the “complete package” without a man on her arm or a ring on her finger for the annual company retreat. Enter her best friend, Aaron the Architect, to the rescue. They decide to enter a fake dating arrangement to secure Janelle’s future, with only one bed and forced proximity galore. But their charade threatens to reveal the truth of the feelings underpinning a decade of friendship between two ambitious people who everyone else clocks as more than just friends.
“In the morning, they would resume their roles, careful and calculated. But here, in the quiet of their cabin with wine and firelight between them, they were just Aaron and Janelle, the way they’d always been.”
Realistic and refreshing, I felt very seen as a Black woman navigating the treacherous waters of American work culture and the social expectations thrust upon us. Having to play “The Game ©” while also being twice as good and judged for not having a man in a high-demand profession was painfully relatable. While I enjoy reading highly competent FMCs, it was really nice seeing Janelle realize she doesn’t have to go it alone. Or, more like, she never has, and now it’s time to take the next step with Aaron. It’s always nice to read literature rejecting the lie that to be soft and vulnerable to someone who genuinely loves you, someone you say you trust, is a sign of weakness. While it got repetitive in some places, I also liked that it was dual-POV. Aaron, after years of waiting, got his well-deserved happily-ever-after. But not without standing up for himself and realizing he’s worth more than an afterthought in any relationship, whether it’s fake, genuine friendship, or romantic. And any man who knows how to cook is an instant heartthrob in my honest opinion! I’m excited to read book two about Janelle’s girlfriend, Sarai. 4.5/5🌟s
Recommended for Readers who Love:
— best friends-to-lovers,
— classic romance tropes sealed with a sweet kiss,
— and, a Black woman FMC embracing vulnerability as a gift
Thank you, BRBF Book Tours, for sending me a digital advance reader copy. You can find more of my reviews on social media at @crownebooks or ww.crownebooks.com.
February 11, 2026
I truly enjoyed this book. From start to finish, it pulled me in emotionally, and I found myself really invested in the characters — even when they were getting on my nerves.
Let’s talk about Janelle. Sis was working my nerves! And not in a small way. We so often talk about men and the games they play — the hesitation, the emotional unavailability, the lack of seriousness when it comes to love. But in this story? It was her. Janelle was the one dragging her feet, overthinking, self-sabotaging, and at times running from something that was clearly good for her. It was frustrating to watch… but if we’re being honest, it was also real. Charlotte did a great job of showing how fear and past experiences can cloud something that’s right in front of you.
Now Aaron? Whew. That man’s love and dedication were unbelievable. The patience. The consistency. The way he showed up — not just romantically, but emotionally. He wasn’t loud about it. He was steady. Intentional. Present. And that kind of love hits different. It wasn’t performative; it was rooted in friendship, in understanding, and in knowing her at her core.
What I appreciated most was the foundation of their relationship. I am a true believer that friendship first makes a huge difference in a relationship. When you genuinely like someone, when you know them as a person before the romance fully takes center stage, it adds depth. It gives the relationship something solid to stand on. And that’s what made this story work for me. Even when Janelle was frustrating me, I understood why Aaron held on — because their connection didn’t start with surface-level attraction. It started with something real.
This book felt authentic. The emotions weren’t rushed. The growth wasn’t instant. There were moments of tension, reflection, and self-awareness that made the journey worth it. And while I definitely wanted to shake Janelle a time or two, I also appreciated that she had to grow into the love she deserved.
Overall, Where We Belong is a reminder that sometimes the right love requires maturity, healing, and the courage to stop running from what feels safe and good. If you enjoy stories where friendship evolves into something deeper — with emotional depth and realistic flaws — this one is worth the read.
Let’s talk about Janelle. Sis was working my nerves! And not in a small way. We so often talk about men and the games they play — the hesitation, the emotional unavailability, the lack of seriousness when it comes to love. But in this story? It was her. Janelle was the one dragging her feet, overthinking, self-sabotaging, and at times running from something that was clearly good for her. It was frustrating to watch… but if we’re being honest, it was also real. Charlotte did a great job of showing how fear and past experiences can cloud something that’s right in front of you.
Now Aaron? Whew. That man’s love and dedication were unbelievable. The patience. The consistency. The way he showed up — not just romantically, but emotionally. He wasn’t loud about it. He was steady. Intentional. Present. And that kind of love hits different. It wasn’t performative; it was rooted in friendship, in understanding, and in knowing her at her core.
What I appreciated most was the foundation of their relationship. I am a true believer that friendship first makes a huge difference in a relationship. When you genuinely like someone, when you know them as a person before the romance fully takes center stage, it adds depth. It gives the relationship something solid to stand on. And that’s what made this story work for me. Even when Janelle was frustrating me, I understood why Aaron held on — because their connection didn’t start with surface-level attraction. It started with something real.
This book felt authentic. The emotions weren’t rushed. The growth wasn’t instant. There were moments of tension, reflection, and self-awareness that made the journey worth it. And while I definitely wanted to shake Janelle a time or two, I also appreciated that she had to grow into the love she deserved.
Overall, Where We Belong is a reminder that sometimes the right love requires maturity, healing, and the courage to stop running from what feels safe and good. If you enjoy stories where friendship evolves into something deeper — with emotional depth and realistic flaws — this one is worth the read.
February 21, 2026
***BRBF Book Tours***Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
Where We Belong is a slow-burn love story that explores friendship, career, and self-discovery. Janelle and Aaron are friends who are equally accomplished in their professional careers—both HBCU graduates of the same alma mater. Aaron is always so observant and ever so present to Janelle's needs. Janelle's focus is calculated perfection at all times. She's catastrophically rigid, meticulously driven. As a Black woman in the corporate world, Janelle faces the unspoken pressure to work harder, present herself flawlessly, and still be overlooked. Charlotte does a brilliant job portraying the complexity of navigating this reality, highlighting the emotional toll it takes.
For Janelle's company, her spectacular work performance just isn't enough. She doesn't it their picture of a well rounded person because she doesn't have a romantic partner. To counter this, Aaron and Janelle decide a fake romantic relationship for the advancement of her career is the best decision. That is until they can no longer pretend and lines become blurred. As brilliant as Janelle is, she behaves selfishly and refuses to communicate with Aaron if it doesn't benefit her career path. Although he's torn up about the state of their friendship/relationship, Aaron accepts Janelle's behavior. Always making excuses for her until he can't. In the end, Janelle's evolution was worth the slow burn. Her initial rigidity softens as she realizes she doesn't have to sacrifice her personal life for her career. She's able to experience love and happiness in its purest form. It was just as heartwarming to see Aaron get what he quietly desired all along.
As enjoyable as this story was, there were moments I wish were expanded upon. The car ride home from the lodge and the announcement party specifically. Also, I would have like for the downloadable bonus content to actually have been the epilogue.
Where We Belong is a slow-burn love story that explores friendship, career, and self-discovery. Janelle and Aaron are friends who are equally accomplished in their professional careers—both HBCU graduates of the same alma mater. Aaron is always so observant and ever so present to Janelle's needs. Janelle's focus is calculated perfection at all times. She's catastrophically rigid, meticulously driven. As a Black woman in the corporate world, Janelle faces the unspoken pressure to work harder, present herself flawlessly, and still be overlooked. Charlotte does a brilliant job portraying the complexity of navigating this reality, highlighting the emotional toll it takes.
For Janelle's company, her spectacular work performance just isn't enough. She doesn't it their picture of a well rounded person because she doesn't have a romantic partner. To counter this, Aaron and Janelle decide a fake romantic relationship for the advancement of her career is the best decision. That is until they can no longer pretend and lines become blurred. As brilliant as Janelle is, she behaves selfishly and refuses to communicate with Aaron if it doesn't benefit her career path. Although he's torn up about the state of their friendship/relationship, Aaron accepts Janelle's behavior. Always making excuses for her until he can't. In the end, Janelle's evolution was worth the slow burn. Her initial rigidity softens as she realizes she doesn't have to sacrifice her personal life for her career. She's able to experience love and happiness in its purest form. It was just as heartwarming to see Aaron get what he quietly desired all along.
As enjoyable as this story was, there were moments I wish were expanded upon. The car ride home from the lodge and the announcement party specifically. Also, I would have like for the downloadable bonus content to actually have been the epilogue.
February 20, 2026
Thank you BRBF Book Tours and Charlotte Dinnis for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
2.25/5 ⭐️
My written review:
The Couple 3/5
I initially loved them but eventually had to take Aaron’s rose colored glasses off. I feel like he started to realize his bond with Janelle felt more transactional than reciprocal and made me really look at Janelle sideways. Then the second Janelle came back he dropped all of that and welcomed her with open arms as if he no longer cared about his own needs. I still give them a 3 though because the beginning of the book convinced me it was a reciprocal love, at least in college, that Janelle would get back to but by the end it seemed like there wasn’t a Janelle to get back to and she had actually just always been selfish.
Plot 1.75/5
I found there to be some random inconsistencies and felt like things weren’t adding up rather than the feeling of a complicated dichotomy some books like to present. I would say there’s a sort of whiplash I experienced trying to figure out Janelle.
The Supporting Cast 2/5
They just added to any confusion I had and it was difficult to keep up with them especially at the end. It was hard to determine if I needed to pay attention to them or not but I will say Marcus’ view of Janelle is more in line with how I ended up viewing her.
Overall this brought up a lot of good questions for me and I still think this book is a good conversation starter and ground for debating different ideas.
A link to hear more of my in depth thoughts on TikTok and/or YouTube:
https://linktr.ee/mickell.ok
2.25/5 ⭐️
My written review:
The Couple 3/5
I initially loved them but eventually had to take Aaron’s rose colored glasses off. I feel like he started to realize his bond with Janelle felt more transactional than reciprocal and made me really look at Janelle sideways. Then the second Janelle came back he dropped all of that and welcomed her with open arms as if he no longer cared about his own needs. I still give them a 3 though because the beginning of the book convinced me it was a reciprocal love, at least in college, that Janelle would get back to but by the end it seemed like there wasn’t a Janelle to get back to and she had actually just always been selfish.
Plot 1.75/5
I found there to be some random inconsistencies and felt like things weren’t adding up rather than the feeling of a complicated dichotomy some books like to present. I would say there’s a sort of whiplash I experienced trying to figure out Janelle.
The Supporting Cast 2/5
They just added to any confusion I had and it was difficult to keep up with them especially at the end. It was hard to determine if I needed to pay attention to them or not but I will say Marcus’ view of Janelle is more in line with how I ended up viewing her.
Overall this brought up a lot of good questions for me and I still think this book is a good conversation starter and ground for debating different ideas.
A link to hear more of my in depth thoughts on TikTok and/or YouTube:
https://linktr.ee/mickell.ok
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 14, 2026
Black Romance Fest Book Tour Review 📚
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked how this book showed the struggles of being a Black woman in the workplace — having to be professional all the time, and how your work isn’t the only criteria you’re judged on. That part felt real and layered, and it captured how heavy it can be to constantly feel like you’re being evaluated beyond your actual performance.
Janelle was annoying at times. I kept thinking if she just communicated her feelings to Aaron, he would have been understanding — and honestly, he was understanding throughout the whole book. Still, I was very happy when she realized that while trying to achieve her professional goals, she lost herself as a person. That hit for me because a lot of women feel the same way. We have to change ourselves to fit in at work and lose ourselves in the process, and the book didn’t shy away from that.
I also liked that it talked about not accepting bad treatment from others. Aaron began setting boundaries with Janelle and expressed not wanting to be used, and I appreciated seeing that shift. It added a needed balance and showed growth on both sides.
My only real wish is that there was more romance — but I understand there was a bigger story being told. Overall, it felt like a book that’s about more than a relationship; it’s about identity, pressure, and learning how to keep yourself while you’re trying to build a life.
February 10, 2026
*ARC Review*
Aaron & Janelle are best friends who have known each other since their college days. Both are successful professionals in their respective fields and have supported each other for the past decade. Janelle is eligible to become a partner at her accounting firm, but there’s one problem. In order for her to be a viable candidate she needs to be in a relationship. Being a standup guy, Aaron volunteers to fake date Janelle to improve her chances at partnership. The only issue is can Aaron separate this act from his true emotions.
This book is not your typical fake dating romance. It evaluates the emotional connection and depths of the main characters. You get to see and examine the complexities of Janelle’s personality which at times is a lot. Aaron showcased massive patience and understanding when showcasing his friendship and love for Janelle. What’s refreshing is to see the illustration throughout the book how Janelle maintains an armor and shield as a professional due to her race and gender. It’s such a relatable experience for many women of color that constantly have to prove their value within the workplace.
Tropes:
•Slow burn romance
•Friends to lovers
•Fake dating
•Book 1 in a series
No spice (which isn’t a negative at all).
Aaron & Janelle are best friends who have known each other since their college days. Both are successful professionals in their respective fields and have supported each other for the past decade. Janelle is eligible to become a partner at her accounting firm, but there’s one problem. In order for her to be a viable candidate she needs to be in a relationship. Being a standup guy, Aaron volunteers to fake date Janelle to improve her chances at partnership. The only issue is can Aaron separate this act from his true emotions.
This book is not your typical fake dating romance. It evaluates the emotional connection and depths of the main characters. You get to see and examine the complexities of Janelle’s personality which at times is a lot. Aaron showcased massive patience and understanding when showcasing his friendship and love for Janelle. What’s refreshing is to see the illustration throughout the book how Janelle maintains an armor and shield as a professional due to her race and gender. It’s such a relatable experience for many women of color that constantly have to prove their value within the workplace.
Tropes:
•Slow burn romance
•Friends to lovers
•Fake dating
•Book 1 in a series
No spice (which isn’t a negative at all).
February 21, 2026
Thank you so much BRBF for providing me with a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
---
“…don’t let fear make your decisions for you. Love’s always a risk. But sometimes it’s the smartest investment you’ll ever make.”
I’m so glad I was introduced to Charlotte Dinnis’ writing. As someone who lovesss descriptive writing, she is so skilled at setting the scene in the perfect way: not too much info that your eyes start to swim but more than enough to truly feel like you’re side by side with the characters..She described emotions, places, and actions with such a gentle and soothing tone that the entire reading experience felt so calming.
Like any friends to lovers story, our main characters Janelle and Aaron were very conflicted about risking their friendship to fully accept the romantic love they’ve held for each other for years. I really appreciated getting to see both characters really work through this and understand what they needed to do individually in order to bring their best self to a possible relationship.
The epilogue for sure had me intrigued as well and now I can’t wait to get my hands on Sarai and Nolan’s book.
Highly recommend this book if acts of service is your love language and you love a beautifully detailed story!
---
“…don’t let fear make your decisions for you. Love’s always a risk. But sometimes it’s the smartest investment you’ll ever make.”
I’m so glad I was introduced to Charlotte Dinnis’ writing. As someone who lovesss descriptive writing, she is so skilled at setting the scene in the perfect way: not too much info that your eyes start to swim but more than enough to truly feel like you’re side by side with the characters..She described emotions, places, and actions with such a gentle and soothing tone that the entire reading experience felt so calming.
Like any friends to lovers story, our main characters Janelle and Aaron were very conflicted about risking their friendship to fully accept the romantic love they’ve held for each other for years. I really appreciated getting to see both characters really work through this and understand what they needed to do individually in order to bring their best self to a possible relationship.
The epilogue for sure had me intrigued as well and now I can’t wait to get my hands on Sarai and Nolan’s book.
Highly recommend this book if acts of service is your love language and you love a beautifully detailed story!
February 13, 2026
BRBF Book Tour Review ✨📚
If you love Hallmark Channel movies but want it Blackity Black Black with depth, culture, and heart… this is your book.
We’ve got an FMC trying to figure out who she is outside of everyone else’s expectations; not her family’s, not her friends’, not society’s; just her! And honestly? That journey alone will hit home for a lot of us.
Meanwhile, MMC is over here SICK in love with his best friend… and too scared to risk the friendship to say something. Sir. PLEASE. 😭
The entire book you’re screaming at them to communicate. Just TALK. Use your WORDS. But of course, they choose chaos and longing instead. And we eat it up every time.
What I loved:
🔸 HBCU graduates (the culture? unmatched.)
🔹 Best friends to lovers done RIGHT
🔸 Miscommunication that actually makes sense
🔹 Fake dating with very real feelings
🔸 Two people learning to be honest with themselves before they can be honest with each other
You’re rooting for them to get out of their own way and finally choose each other — loudly and intentionally.
Soft. Romantic. A little frustrating (in the best way). And full of heart. 💛
Was provided a free copy from BRBF as part of there book Tour program.
If you love Hallmark Channel movies but want it Blackity Black Black with depth, culture, and heart… this is your book.
We’ve got an FMC trying to figure out who she is outside of everyone else’s expectations; not her family’s, not her friends’, not society’s; just her! And honestly? That journey alone will hit home for a lot of us.
Meanwhile, MMC is over here SICK in love with his best friend… and too scared to risk the friendship to say something. Sir. PLEASE. 😭
The entire book you’re screaming at them to communicate. Just TALK. Use your WORDS. But of course, they choose chaos and longing instead. And we eat it up every time.
What I loved:
🔸 HBCU graduates (the culture? unmatched.)
🔹 Best friends to lovers done RIGHT
🔸 Miscommunication that actually makes sense
🔹 Fake dating with very real feelings
🔸 Two people learning to be honest with themselves before they can be honest with each other
You’re rooting for them to get out of their own way and finally choose each other — loudly and intentionally.
Soft. Romantic. A little frustrating (in the best way). And full of heart. 💛
Was provided a free copy from BRBF as part of there book Tour program.
February 15, 2026
Thank you BRBF for the ARC. This was my first time reading anything by Charlotte Dinnis.
"Where We Belong" is a character-driven romance that leans into emotional growth instead of dramatic twists. Janelle is ambitious and guarded, and watching her wrestle with her feelings (even when they were obvious) was equal parts frustrating and relatable. We’re so used to seeing men hesitate in love stories. Here, the hesitation was hers.
Aaron’s love felt grounded. He wasn’t flashy or over-the-top. He was steady, patient, and emotionally present. The kind of love that doesn’t beg for attention but proves itself through action.
What made this story stand out for me was the foundation of friendship. Their connection wasn’t built overnight. It had history. Depth. Shared years. So when things shifted romantically, it felt earned.
This is low spice but high yearning. Clean, tender, emotionally layered. It explores ambition, identity, and what it really means to feel seen by someone.
If you enjoy friends-to-lovers, fake dating with emotional weight, and a love story rooted in patience and growth, this is worth picking up.
"Where We Belong" is a character-driven romance that leans into emotional growth instead of dramatic twists. Janelle is ambitious and guarded, and watching her wrestle with her feelings (even when they were obvious) was equal parts frustrating and relatable. We’re so used to seeing men hesitate in love stories. Here, the hesitation was hers.
Aaron’s love felt grounded. He wasn’t flashy or over-the-top. He was steady, patient, and emotionally present. The kind of love that doesn’t beg for attention but proves itself through action.
What made this story stand out for me was the foundation of friendship. Their connection wasn’t built overnight. It had history. Depth. Shared years. So when things shifted romantically, it felt earned.
This is low spice but high yearning. Clean, tender, emotionally layered. It explores ambition, identity, and what it really means to feel seen by someone.
If you enjoy friends-to-lovers, fake dating with emotional weight, and a love story rooted in patience and growth, this is worth picking up.
February 19, 2026
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️
Tropes: Fake dating, forced proximity, friends to lovers, second chance
Thank you to the Black Romance Book Tour for the ARC 💌
This was my first time reading this author and she understood the assignment. I’m usually a spice girlie, so going into a romance with little to no spice had me a bit nervous. The tension, the slow burn, and the emotional build between Janelle and Aaron carried the story beautifully.
I love a good slow burn and this one delivered in the best way. It was also the perfect palate cleanser in between some heavier reads this month. The pacing felt intentional and the connection between the characters felt genuine, not rushed.
Now listen… Janelle was testing my patience towards the end 😭 she was really out here playing in Aaron’s face, and I was like sis PLEASE. But I will say, her growth came through and she got it together.
I do wish we got more scenes of them dating, I would have loved a few more soft, everyday romance moments with them.
Overall, this was a really solid introduction to Charlotte’s writing for me, and I’m definitely interested in reading more from her.
Tropes: Fake dating, forced proximity, friends to lovers, second chance
Thank you to the Black Romance Book Tour for the ARC 💌
This was my first time reading this author and she understood the assignment. I’m usually a spice girlie, so going into a romance with little to no spice had me a bit nervous. The tension, the slow burn, and the emotional build between Janelle and Aaron carried the story beautifully.
I love a good slow burn and this one delivered in the best way. It was also the perfect palate cleanser in between some heavier reads this month. The pacing felt intentional and the connection between the characters felt genuine, not rushed.
Now listen… Janelle was testing my patience towards the end 😭 she was really out here playing in Aaron’s face, and I was like sis PLEASE. But I will say, her growth came through and she got it together.
I do wish we got more scenes of them dating, I would have loved a few more soft, everyday romance moments with them.
Overall, this was a really solid introduction to Charlotte’s writing for me, and I’m definitely interested in reading more from her.
February 16, 2026
This was a solid, clean romance. Although the book did not have any spice, the tension and chemistry was still there. Charlotte did an amazing job making even the slightest of touches between Aaron and Janelle feel like electricity. This book feels like a love letter to the Black women who are highly ambitious and super focused on their careers. Janelle was a bit much for me, but Aaron my goodness had the patience of a saint and deserves the absolute world. I think what sets this book apart is the emotional turmoil that is explored with fake dating, especially for Aaron!
This was a great like refresh especially after several heavier books! I would recommend this book to folks who enjoy clean/zero spice romances (kissing only), fake dating, forced proximity, he falls first (and harder), workplace (kinda) romance and friends to lovers. Thank you so so so much to the Black Romance Book Festival Book Tour for this ARC.
This was a great like refresh especially after several heavier books! I would recommend this book to folks who enjoy clean/zero spice romances (kissing only), fake dating, forced proximity, he falls first (and harder), workplace (kinda) romance and friends to lovers. Thank you so so so much to the Black Romance Book Festival Book Tour for this ARC.
February 17, 2026
*Black Romance Book Tour Arc Review 📚*
💛All thoughts are my own
This story beautifully captures the journey of Janelle and Aaron, two HBCU-educated professionals and best friends, as they navigate a fake relationship that turns into real feelings. It's about embracing vulnerability and finding love in the most unexpected places. The book highlights the importance of truly seeing and understanding the person in front of you.
Reading about Janelle's experiences as a black woman in corporate America resonated deeply with me. The author's writing is incredible, and I loved how vividly she describes each scene. The theme of truly understanding and appreciating someone for who they are, knowing when to offer space or a hug, brings a sense of peace. I also appreciated the low spice level, it was a nice change of pace. This was the first book I read by Charlotte Dinnis and I love that this is how I was introduced to her writing.
💛All thoughts are my own
This story beautifully captures the journey of Janelle and Aaron, two HBCU-educated professionals and best friends, as they navigate a fake relationship that turns into real feelings. It's about embracing vulnerability and finding love in the most unexpected places. The book highlights the importance of truly seeing and understanding the person in front of you.
Reading about Janelle's experiences as a black woman in corporate America resonated deeply with me. The author's writing is incredible, and I loved how vividly she describes each scene. The theme of truly understanding and appreciating someone for who they are, knowing when to offer space or a hug, brings a sense of peace. I also appreciated the low spice level, it was a nice change of pace. This was the first book I read by Charlotte Dinnis and I love that this is how I was introduced to her writing.
February 20, 2026
*ARC Review*
Thank you Charlotte Dinnis and BRBF for choosing me! This was one of those books where I wasn't sure if I would finish because it is a slow burn, but it became a book I couldn't put down.
I can't believe Charlotte made me side with a man lol. The love story between Janelle and Aaron keeps you engaged because you want to see them get to happily ever after. Aaron loved and cared about her so much, to his own detriment at times. I loved how the people around him also looked out for him and his heart because they knew how selfless he was. As much as I can understand Janelle's reservation I can still disagree with the way she messed with my man. A story that discusses choosing between love, career, friendship, and self. Shout out to my OCD people, that representation was cool to read also. Charlotte does an amazing job writing stories with so much detail without it feeling like space filling. Aaron may be a new book boyfriend. I am excited to read the next book(s).
Thank you Charlotte Dinnis and BRBF for choosing me! This was one of those books where I wasn't sure if I would finish because it is a slow burn, but it became a book I couldn't put down.
I can't believe Charlotte made me side with a man lol. The love story between Janelle and Aaron keeps you engaged because you want to see them get to happily ever after. Aaron loved and cared about her so much, to his own detriment at times. I loved how the people around him also looked out for him and his heart because they knew how selfless he was. As much as I can understand Janelle's reservation I can still disagree with the way she messed with my man. A story that discusses choosing between love, career, friendship, and self. Shout out to my OCD people, that representation was cool to read also. Charlotte does an amazing job writing stories with so much detail without it feeling like space filling. Aaron may be a new book boyfriend. I am excited to read the next book(s).
February 15, 2026
What if your person has been by your side since college? Well Aaron and Janelle have been best friends since sophomore year of college. Aaron being Janelle’s number one supporter in all of her studies at Morgan State and endevours post college. Janelle always falls back on Aaron to be her plus one, until this particular occassion calls for them to fake a relationship. Janelle is career driven and fears vulnerability, while Aaron secretly hides his true feelings for Janelle.
I liked how the story unfolded with a steady pace but not a slow burn. A nonspicy cute love story about two best friends becoming lovers. I thought of all the black love movies like Brown Sugar, Love Jones, etc. The innocence of giving love a chance through friendship.If you’re into contemporary black romance then this book is a must read!
I liked how the story unfolded with a steady pace but not a slow burn. A nonspicy cute love story about two best friends becoming lovers. I thought of all the black love movies like Brown Sugar, Love Jones, etc. The innocence of giving love a chance through friendship.If you’re into contemporary black romance then this book is a must read!
February 20, 2026
This was an absolutely delightful and entertaining read. I especially loved how the MMC didnt expect the FMC to dim her light and strength. He constantly allowed her to be her strong self and was so patient with her. Now there were time I wanted to gave a talk with Janelle, but she grew and pivoted in the right direction. I also kinda understood where she was coming from, so I wasn't too hard on her. I think my favorite part was when Aaron was talking to the suits at her job, and got emotional (I could feel it through the pages), that had me swooning. Friends to lovers has always been one of my favorite troupes, and fake dating is a top second, and this book contained both, and I couldn't be happier. This author will definitely be in my rotation for future books. This was such an enjoyable read and I cant wait to read book 2.
February 22, 2026
ARC E-book Review
We Belong Together by: Charlotte Dinnis 🤎🧡
So this was my first time reading a book by Charlotte Dinnis, and it was quite — a lovely surprise.
From the very beginning, she takes her time building the world and, more importantly, her characters. Janelle and Aaron don’t just exist on the page — they live there. They feel so real, and so relatable. The relationship unfolds so naturally, and every interaction adds another thread to the slow, delicious tension between them.
If you’re looking for a lot of spice, this isn’t that kind of romance — it’s definitely a slow burn kind of romance and It doesn’t need anything more if you ask me. 🧡🤎
I have to say that this was a wonderful first time read from Charlotte Dinnis, and I’m already looking forward to reading more of her work 📚📖
I truly enjoyed this book tour! Thank you so much @author_charlotte_dinnis & @blackromancebooktours for sending me an ARC E-book 🤗 it was definitely worth the read 🤗📖.
We Belong Together by: Charlotte Dinnis 🤎🧡
So this was my first time reading a book by Charlotte Dinnis, and it was quite — a lovely surprise.
From the very beginning, she takes her time building the world and, more importantly, her characters. Janelle and Aaron don’t just exist on the page — they live there. They feel so real, and so relatable. The relationship unfolds so naturally, and every interaction adds another thread to the slow, delicious tension between them.
If you’re looking for a lot of spice, this isn’t that kind of romance — it’s definitely a slow burn kind of romance and It doesn’t need anything more if you ask me. 🧡🤎
I have to say that this was a wonderful first time read from Charlotte Dinnis, and I’m already looking forward to reading more of her work 📚📖
I truly enjoyed this book tour! Thank you so much @author_charlotte_dinnis & @blackromancebooktours for sending me an ARC E-book 🤗 it was definitely worth the read 🤗📖.
February 21, 2026
This was my first time reading this author's work so I went in with an open mind. The pair are extremely close and act like a married couple. Everyone around them sees the attraction, yet the two ignore the unspoken chemistry that exists. When circumstances push them into a fake relationship, true feelings emerge. For a while I was pretty irritated with Janelle's oblivion to Aaron's feelings. However, it was evident she was allowing fear and ambition to lead her. Their deep. Connection was evident and the strain placed on the friendship helped place things into perspective. I wasn't sure if the two would be able to bounce back, but ultimately love won in the end. I liked that it was a realistic depiction of what one might experience when taking the leap from friends to lovers.
Thank you BRBF Book Tours for this ARC.
Thank you BRBF Book Tours for this ARC.
March 2, 2026
Oh, this one? Yeah, it did what it needed to do.
Where We Belong is soft but don’t let that fool you the emotions are loud. This story is all about timing, healing, and that undeniable pull back to the person who feels like home… even when life tried to reroute everything.
The tension? Chef’s kiss.
The longing? Painfully delicious.
The growth? Necessary.
Nobody in this book is perfect, and that’s what made it hit. It’s messy, tender, and full of those “are we really about to do this?” moments that had me stressed in the best way.
If you love romance that feels like unfinished business finally handled properly this is for you. I love a good friends to lovers.
I love the longing Aaron had for Janelle. He knew her better than she knew herself and i was here for it all.
4 stars. Because when it hits, it hits.
Where We Belong is soft but don’t let that fool you the emotions are loud. This story is all about timing, healing, and that undeniable pull back to the person who feels like home… even when life tried to reroute everything.
The tension? Chef’s kiss.
The longing? Painfully delicious.
The growth? Necessary.
Nobody in this book is perfect, and that’s what made it hit. It’s messy, tender, and full of those “are we really about to do this?” moments that had me stressed in the best way.
If you love romance that feels like unfinished business finally handled properly this is for you. I love a good friends to lovers.
I love the longing Aaron had for Janelle. He knew her better than she knew herself and i was here for it all.
4 stars. Because when it hits, it hits.
February 14, 2026
Review:
This book was many firsts for me. First book read by this Author, Charlotte Dinnis. First book read (audiobook) and completed in one day and First book with Best Friends to Lovers Trope.
This book was an easy read and made me really wonder... could you fake a romantic relationship with someone that you been best friends with for years. Charlotte gave us a good way of saying.. Dont Stop the Feeling! Many times I wanted to say come on... go on and get to it! but I know the best relationship starts with a solid foundation. This was a fun read. Book 1 of a series and excited to continue on to Book 2 releasing in March 2026.
EBook provided by BRBF Book Tour in exchange for honest review
This book was many firsts for me. First book read by this Author, Charlotte Dinnis. First book read (audiobook) and completed in one day and First book with Best Friends to Lovers Trope.
This book was an easy read and made me really wonder... could you fake a romantic relationship with someone that you been best friends with for years. Charlotte gave us a good way of saying.. Dont Stop the Feeling! Many times I wanted to say come on... go on and get to it! but I know the best relationship starts with a solid foundation. This was a fun read. Book 1 of a series and excited to continue on to Book 2 releasing in March 2026.
EBook provided by BRBF Book Tour in exchange for honest review
February 22, 2026
This was my first book by Charlotte Dinnis, and I was immediately struck by how intentional she was in building Janelle as a character. The detail she gave—her particular habits and the way she moves through the world—made me feel seen in a way I wasn’t expecting. There was something deeply comforting about recognizing parts of myself on the page.
Janelle and Aaron’s relationship was complex yet relatable. Even when they tried to resist it, their connection unfolded naturally and never felt forced. I especially appreciated the slow burn. The emotional intimacy and tension between them were strong enough that it never felt like anything was missing.
Thank you to Charlotte Dinnia and the Black Romance Book Tours for the ARC.
Janelle and Aaron’s relationship was complex yet relatable. Even when they tried to resist it, their connection unfolded naturally and never felt forced. I especially appreciated the slow burn. The emotional intimacy and tension between them were strong enough that it never felt like anything was missing.
Thank you to Charlotte Dinnia and the Black Romance Book Tours for the ARC.
March 5, 2026
A great read if you're looking for mature, clean romance. The main characters, Janelle and Aaron, are well thought out and behave consistently through the novel. They complement each other nicely - Aaron the calm to Janelle's anxiety. I loved the author's attention to detail; the micromovements that revealed how much Janelle needed to feel in control. The writing style was considered and serious, which matched Janelle's personality nicely. The social commentary around workplace biases, towards people of colour and women, was tactfully portrayed - I felt so frustrated for Janelle! - and very believable. Overall, it was an emotionally rich story, using well-loved tropes - friends to lovers, fake dating, workplace setting - in a way that felt refreshing.
February 14, 2026
Thank you to Charlotte Dennis and BRBF Book Tours for the opportunity to provide an honest review. As the kickoff to a series, the book does a wonderful job strength tone for future installments. The chemistry between the leads feels authentic. Their shared history serves as a foundation, but their now renewed connection fits in with who they are now years later. Two ambitious professionals navigating the complicated space between who they were in college and who they've become as adults. This is a soulful and beautifully written second-chance romance that's perfect as I enjoy heartfelt storytelling with depth and warmth.
January 27, 2026
A Smart, Emotional Slow-Burn with a Brilliant Heroine
This was a beautifully written, character-driven romance that balances ambition and vulnerability perfectly. Janelle is a compelling heroine—competent, guarded, and deeply relatable as she navigates career pressure and emotional growth. The chemistry with Aaron is tender, layered, and full of quiet longing. I loved how the story explored belonging, identity, and what it means to truly be seen. A thoughtful, clean contemporary romance that I highly recommend.
This was a beautifully written, character-driven romance that balances ambition and vulnerability perfectly. Janelle is a compelling heroine—competent, guarded, and deeply relatable as she navigates career pressure and emotional growth. The chemistry with Aaron is tender, layered, and full of quiet longing. I loved how the story explored belonging, identity, and what it means to truly be seen. A thoughtful, clean contemporary romance that I highly recommend.
February 17, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️Where We Belong by Charolette Dinnis
Where We Belong was such a sweet, emotional, and satisfying friends-to-lovers romance. The chemistry between the main characters felt natural and earned — like the kind of love that’s been building for years, even when neither person wanted to admit it.
What I loved most was how the story balanced the romance with real feelings: the hesitation, the fear of ruining the friendship, and that “what if we’re meant for more?” tension. The emotional moments hit, but it still had plenty of soft, cozy vibes and romantic scenes that made me smile.
Where We Belong was such a sweet, emotional, and satisfying friends-to-lovers romance. The chemistry between the main characters felt natural and earned — like the kind of love that’s been building for years, even when neither person wanted to admit it.
What I loved most was how the story balanced the romance with real feelings: the hesitation, the fear of ruining the friendship, and that “what if we’re meant for more?” tension. The emotional moments hit, but it still had plenty of soft, cozy vibes and romantic scenes that made me smile.
February 27, 2026
* I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review*
I really enjoyed reading Aaron and Janelles story!! These two best-friends take you on a journey that is beautiful and nerve racking at the same time. While I liked Janelles character overall she got on my nerves a lot throughout the book with some the descisons that she was making when it came to Aaron. For me Aaron was the star of this book! I really enjoyed how complex his character was. The way he was so patient, gentle and understanding with Janelle was really refreshing to read.
I also liked the way the author incorporated the topic of the many challenges that Black women face in the workplace especially in a corporate setting. The author did an amazing job showing the way Janelle navigated this in her work life and also how this spilled over into her personal life.
This book is a slow burn so that is something to keep in mind as you are reading.
If your looking for a friends to lovers, fake dating, multiple POVs type of book then this is a must read!
This was my first read by Charlotte Dinnis and it won't be my last.I am really excited to read the next book in this series!
Thank you Black Romance Book Tours for the ARC.
I really enjoyed reading Aaron and Janelles story!! These two best-friends take you on a journey that is beautiful and nerve racking at the same time. While I liked Janelles character overall she got on my nerves a lot throughout the book with some the descisons that she was making when it came to Aaron. For me Aaron was the star of this book! I really enjoyed how complex his character was. The way he was so patient, gentle and understanding with Janelle was really refreshing to read.
I also liked the way the author incorporated the topic of the many challenges that Black women face in the workplace especially in a corporate setting. The author did an amazing job showing the way Janelle navigated this in her work life and also how this spilled over into her personal life.
This book is a slow burn so that is something to keep in mind as you are reading.
If your looking for a friends to lovers, fake dating, multiple POVs type of book then this is a must read!
This was my first read by Charlotte Dinnis and it won't be my last.I am really excited to read the next book in this series!
Thank you Black Romance Book Tours for the ARC.
February 20, 2026
This was a cute story by Charlotte Dinnis. This book is definitely a slow read however it allows the reader to understand Janelle and Aaron. I really liked how Charlotte was able to highlight Janelle’s attention to detail to everything. I also loved that Aaron was patient with Janelle and was okay with her overthinking and attention to detail. The author did a great job making Aaron very likable as the MMC. Overall rating for this book is 4 stars. Thank you Black Romance for the opportunity for allowing to read this lovely book.
January 28, 2026
I enjoyed reading Janelle and Aaron love story. They meet in college and had been friends ever since, at least Janelle thought so. Aaron had been in love with Janelle for 10 years waiting for her to admit she felt the same way. When Janelle was trying to make partner on her job she found out she needed a boyfriend to help her seal the deal. Aaron was happy to volunteer to be the adoring man in her life. Janelle finally had to admit she had to let go and let love take the wheel.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews