What do you think?
Rate this book
Power Play: An Erotic Valentine's Friends To Lovers Novelette
Kyla thought she had Valentine’s Day handled—good food, good music, and enough distractions to quiet a broken heart. Love was the last thing on her mind. Then the power went out, and the evening took a turn she hadn’t prepared for.
An unexpected reunion pulls her into a night that feels familiar and unsettling all at once. Tyson isn’t the boy from around the way that she remembers—he’s confident, commanding, and carries himself with a presence that Kyla can’t ignore. What starts as comfort slowly shifts into something charged, blurring lines she never planned to cross.
As desire deepens and the past resurfaces, Kyla is forced to face what she’s been avoiding: choosing between surviving heartbreak and allowing herself to feel again.
Power Play is a sensual Valentine’s Day friends-to-lovers novelette about intimacy, control, and the reality of getting more than you planned for. Through both Kyla and Tyson's eyes, it explores how power shifts when desire, history, and timing collide.
An unexpected reunion pulls her into a night that feels familiar and unsettling all at once. Tyson isn’t the boy from around the way that she remembers—he’s confident, commanding, and carries himself with a presence that Kyla can’t ignore. What starts as comfort slowly shifts into something charged, blurring lines she never planned to cross.
As desire deepens and the past resurfaces, Kyla is forced to face what she’s been avoiding: choosing between surviving heartbreak and allowing herself to feel again.
Power Play is a sensual Valentine’s Day friends-to-lovers novelette about intimacy, control, and the reality of getting more than you planned for. Through both Kyla and Tyson's eyes, it explores how power shifts when desire, history, and timing collide.
71 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 3, 2026
46 people are currently reading
105 people want to read
About the author
Miko Janel
4 books22 followersMiko Janel lives in Long Beach, California, with her fiancé and their two dogs, Melo and Mochi. She fell in love with reading in the third grade and has been an avid book lover ever since. Influenced by authors like Eric Jerome Dickey and Zane, her writing blends emotional depth with authenticity and edge along with a lot of sexy! When she’s not reading or writing, Miko enjoys slow mornings, good naps, and cozy nights in watching shows with her ma
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
February 9, 2026
packed a punch!
This novella definitely packed a punch. A friends to lovers I can get behind. Substance with smut.
Minimal grammatical errors but they were more noticeable as the story was so short. Although I didn’t personally listen to the playlist, it was incorporated very well into the story.
This novella definitely packed a punch. A friends to lovers I can get behind. Substance with smut.
Minimal grammatical errors but they were more noticeable as the story was so short. Although I didn’t personally listen to the playlist, it was incorporated very well into the story.
February 10, 2026
Whewwwwww chile! Now Miko —- sis stop telling all thee business okay!? I’m married to a Que and when I tell you Miko did a little bit of research to get this one right- sis did that (I need to stand under the fan at this point because spicy ain’t the word!)I was giggling and nodding my head like I actually knew the main character…that’s how I know Miko did research or she phoned a friend who had a friend IYKYK! But overall this is what you need for an urban erotica novella because it got straight to the point, had just enough character development to make us know a little something about the people, and then a whole lot of details of them fu—- umm details of them being intimate (let me fan my self again!) Long story short, read it and listen to the playlist for an extra vibe because you’ll love it and it’ll take a hour of your time!
February 14, 2026
I officially found my book husband 😍
February 10, 2026
Listen!!! I love me an Omega Man for 555 reasons! This lil short story just took me back to some good ole days!
March 1, 2026
Power Play is what happens when heartbreak meets timing, memory and a man who knows exactly who he is. This story slid in smooth and left its mark. Kyla thought she had Valentine’s Day locked down. Comfort food. Music. Emotional insulation firmly in place. Love was not on the agenda. Then the power goes out and fate laughs because Tyson steps back into her space after fourteen years carrying confidence, command and a presence that doesn’t ask permission to be felt.
This wasn’t just friends to lovers. This was unfinished business knocking at the door with intention. Ty wasn’t rushing, but he also wasn’t letting Ky hide behind survival mode. He saw her. Held space. Babeeeee when the shift happened it felt earned. Natural. Dangerous in the best way. Can we get a handclap for good food, warm jacuzzi, wine and cognac, weed and zero inhibitions.
Listen… when a man says you can have whatever you want and you surprise even yourself with the answer 🫶🏾 That’s healing. That’s desire waking back up. That’s choosing pleasure without apology. The gold boots staying on took me out because the confidence in that moment was loud without ever being vague. I know he folded her like a pretzel.
This was sensual, warm, healing and grounded in emotional truth. Power didn’t come from force. It came from safety, choice, mutual want and between warm thighs. My first read from this author and absolutely not my last. This is how love shows up after heartbreak. Not frantic. Not desperate. Just steady, intentional and exactly on time 🐶
This wasn’t just friends to lovers. This was unfinished business knocking at the door with intention. Ty wasn’t rushing, but he also wasn’t letting Ky hide behind survival mode. He saw her. Held space. Babeeeee when the shift happened it felt earned. Natural. Dangerous in the best way. Can we get a handclap for good food, warm jacuzzi, wine and cognac, weed and zero inhibitions.
Listen… when a man says you can have whatever you want and you surprise even yourself with the answer 🫶🏾 That’s healing. That’s desire waking back up. That’s choosing pleasure without apology. The gold boots staying on took me out because the confidence in that moment was loud without ever being vague. I know he folded her like a pretzel.
This was sensual, warm, healing and grounded in emotional truth. Power didn’t come from force. It came from safety, choice, mutual want and between warm thighs. My first read from this author and absolutely not my last. This is how love shows up after heartbreak. Not frantic. Not desperate. Just steady, intentional and exactly on time 🐶
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2026
Another winner
What’s a woman to do when she’s been betrayed by someone who was supposed to love her? In Kyla’s case, she opts to rebrand Valentine’s Day as a time to treat herself to her favorite things and ride out all of the emotions that come up. What she’s not expecting is to see a blast from the past on her front steps.
Tyson is back in California after years away playing basketball overseas. He’s dog sitting for his cousin and runs into her neighbor who was his childhood best friend. He hasn’t seen Kyla since he left for college in Georgia but thought of her often over the years. Kyla and her grandmother tried their best to keep him on a straight path and off the streets. They’re part of the reason he even got the scholarship he did.
When a blackout occurs on Valentine’s Day, Kyla and Tyson decide to hang out at Kyla’s house and catch up. There’s a lot of history to catch up on and there’s still the underlying attraction from all those years ago.
Now, if there’s one thing I know from reading the authors prior novella, she knows her way around a playlist and sexy sexy times. This book is no different. There’s nothing like 2 grown people knowing what they like, not being afraid to ask for what they want and having a partner that is all about giving pleasure.
This is a very quick read. So quick that you’ll likely finish and then restart out from the beginning right after 😏
What’s a woman to do when she’s been betrayed by someone who was supposed to love her? In Kyla’s case, she opts to rebrand Valentine’s Day as a time to treat herself to her favorite things and ride out all of the emotions that come up. What she’s not expecting is to see a blast from the past on her front steps.
Tyson is back in California after years away playing basketball overseas. He’s dog sitting for his cousin and runs into her neighbor who was his childhood best friend. He hasn’t seen Kyla since he left for college in Georgia but thought of her often over the years. Kyla and her grandmother tried their best to keep him on a straight path and off the streets. They’re part of the reason he even got the scholarship he did.
When a blackout occurs on Valentine’s Day, Kyla and Tyson decide to hang out at Kyla’s house and catch up. There’s a lot of history to catch up on and there’s still the underlying attraction from all those years ago.
Now, if there’s one thing I know from reading the authors prior novella, she knows her way around a playlist and sexy sexy times. This book is no different. There’s nothing like 2 grown people knowing what they like, not being afraid to ask for what they want and having a partner that is all about giving pleasure.
This is a very quick read. So quick that you’ll likely finish and then restart out from the beginning right after 😏
February 4, 2026
Well what can I say…..this one was so good. I guess I have a thing for second chances right now. This was another good take on it. He was a young lost kid trying to find his way and she was the girl who always encouraged him. I loved how the characters were fully developed. It didn’t feel rushed but always maybe me want more at the same time.
While she was trying to find herself again after her breakup he swooped in and showed her that he was the man for her. Now the spice, chefs kiss so beautifully written and didn’t have you feeling like it was going on forever. I lived for the way he treated her. When I say lately these men I these books been showing out. I love it for the girls. This was sweet and spicy and the most delicious way possible. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author. Yall make sure yall check out this erotic novella to get you there for Valentines Day or after.
While she was trying to find herself again after her breakup he swooped in and showed her that he was the man for her. Now the spice, chefs kiss so beautifully written and didn’t have you feeling like it was going on forever. I lived for the way he treated her. When I say lately these men I these books been showing out. I love it for the girls. This was sweet and spicy and the most delicious way possible. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author. Yall make sure yall check out this erotic novella to get you there for Valentines Day or after.
February 14, 2026
Ky and Ty 🥰
I loved this novella down 😘 even with it being a novella it still felt complete 👌🏾 Kyla fresh off a breakup from her 3yr relationship with Shawn, who had cheated and gotten the lady pregnant.. had planned on spending Valentine’s alone.. this was new since the breakup and she was trying to adjust to her new normal.. while attempting to spend alone time with herself the power went out in the neighborhood.. when she went outside to try and see what was going on, a dog licked her and then appeared a familiar face from her past.. Tyson had been a close friend thru high school and they were extremely close, but eventually lost touch after he went overseas to play ball.. now back in town and house/dog sitting for his cousin, he ran into his old friend and crush.. they talked and caught up and then ended up crossing the line and never played games about each other since.. I really enjoyed this read 🥰 and the spice 🌶️
I loved this novella down 😘 even with it being a novella it still felt complete 👌🏾 Kyla fresh off a breakup from her 3yr relationship with Shawn, who had cheated and gotten the lady pregnant.. had planned on spending Valentine’s alone.. this was new since the breakup and she was trying to adjust to her new normal.. while attempting to spend alone time with herself the power went out in the neighborhood.. when she went outside to try and see what was going on, a dog licked her and then appeared a familiar face from her past.. Tyson had been a close friend thru high school and they were extremely close, but eventually lost touch after he went overseas to play ball.. now back in town and house/dog sitting for his cousin, he ran into his old friend and crush.. they talked and caught up and then ended up crossing the line and never played games about each other since.. I really enjoyed this read 🥰 and the spice 🌶️
February 4, 2026
Another Banger
Miko Janel did it AGAIN! 😩🔥 Power Play was an easy 5-star read for me!
She has this way of writing stories that make you instantly get attached and then you’re sitting there like… wait, it’s over already?! 😭 The characters were SO lovable, and even though it’s not a full novel, she still gives you enough background and personality to feel like you really know them.
Honestly, I wish this was a whole novel because I wasn’t ready to let these characters go. Miko really knows how to pull you in, have you invested, and leave you wanting more in the best way. 📖✨
Miko Janel did it AGAIN! 😩🔥 Power Play was an easy 5-star read for me!
She has this way of writing stories that make you instantly get attached and then you’re sitting there like… wait, it’s over already?! 😭 The characters were SO lovable, and even though it’s not a full novel, she still gives you enough background and personality to feel like you really know them.
Honestly, I wish this was a whole novel because I wasn’t ready to let these characters go. Miko really knows how to pull you in, have you invested, and leave you wanting more in the best way. 📖✨
February 6, 2026
I approve
Spoiler alert….As the Bruhs and a fellow erotic author, I receive this novella wholeheartedly. The sex scenes did their job for the ladies, I’m sure. But, if I’m honest, watching their actual relationship unfold (albeit 36-48 hours), it reminded me of my and my wife’s experience and how she helped me find the peace that was found in this book, including the d$&; measuring contest with a weak a$$ dude. The only negative…and this is for Miko…Ques do NOT stroll and we sure as hell do NOT shimmy…otherwise, I see you and respect your gangsta’.
Spoiler alert….As the Bruhs and a fellow erotic author, I receive this novella wholeheartedly. The sex scenes did their job for the ladies, I’m sure. But, if I’m honest, watching their actual relationship unfold (albeit 36-48 hours), it reminded me of my and my wife’s experience and how she helped me find the peace that was found in this book, including the d$&; measuring contest with a weak a$$ dude. The only negative…and this is for Miko…Ques do NOT stroll and we sure as hell do NOT shimmy…otherwise, I see you and respect your gangsta’.
Review of advance copy received from Author
**ARC Review ** 4.5 Rating
*Old Fling
*True Love
*Ice Cream Pleasure
*Loving Oneself
Miko did her big one with this sweet-to-the-point novella. I love how she brought Kyla to loving herself and showed that sometimes you don't need another person to make a well-deserved meal or have a simple glass of wine. As the story progresses, the connection that Kyla and Ty had with each other was just enough spice to really question how you truly eat a vanilla ice cream lol (that's all I am going to say). This was a love story that will keep you yearning for more of Kyla and Ty.
*Old Fling
*True Love
*Ice Cream Pleasure
*Loving Oneself
Miko did her big one with this sweet-to-the-point novella. I love how she brought Kyla to loving herself and showed that sometimes you don't need another person to make a well-deserved meal or have a simple glass of wine. As the story progresses, the connection that Kyla and Ty had with each other was just enough spice to really question how you truly eat a vanilla ice cream lol (that's all I am going to say). This was a love story that will keep you yearning for more of Kyla and Ty.
February 4, 2026
No words wasted
A beautiful follow up to Dearly Beloved. Miko Janel maximized the words in this novella, and the spice packed a punch. Kyla was settling into Valentines as a single woman only to be surprised by Ty, a long lost friend who matured deliciously. I was not disappointed and the stories always leave me wanting more. Can’t wait to see what else Miko comes out with
A beautiful follow up to Dearly Beloved. Miko Janel maximized the words in this novella, and the spice packed a punch. Kyla was settling into Valentines as a single woman only to be surprised by Ty, a long lost friend who matured deliciously. I was not disappointed and the stories always leave me wanting more. Can’t wait to see what else Miko comes out with
March 8, 2026
This novella was everything, everyone said it was.
new-to-me author
Meet Kyla, this is her first Valentine's Day single since her breakup. All she wants to do is have a solo date with some good food, her weed, and her vibrator. When the power went out, plans changed, and she is left scrabbling to find batteries. An unexpected run in with her childhood friend, led to them catching up, and having some fun. I really enjoyed this even though it was short, and I will definitely recommend it if you are looking for a spicy novella with some depth.
new-to-me author
Meet Kyla, this is her first Valentine's Day single since her breakup. All she wants to do is have a solo date with some good food, her weed, and her vibrator. When the power went out, plans changed, and she is left scrabbling to find batteries. An unexpected run in with her childhood friend, led to them catching up, and having some fun. I really enjoyed this even though it was short, and I will definitely recommend it if you are looking for a spicy novella with some depth.
February 9, 2026
Ok, so we taking a nasty-fine ass blicky carrying Que dawg that somewhat spins the block with his childhood friend. Yep sign me up!
This book was the right amount of cuteness and spice. I fell in love with Kyla and Tyson from the start. I wouldn’t mind seeing more from them (wink, wink)!
This book was the right amount of cuteness and spice. I fell in love with Kyla and Tyson from the start. I wouldn’t mind seeing more from them (wink, wink)!
February 27, 2026
Loved this!
Ty came back in Kyla's life just in time. A blackout brings them back within each others orbit after almost 20 years. He loved her before she realized it, and fate bought them together and wouldn't let them go. Good quick read. Happy Reading Y'all!💋
Ty came back in Kyla's life just in time. A blackout brings them back within each others orbit after almost 20 years. He loved her before she realized it, and fate bought them together and wouldn't let them go. Good quick read. Happy Reading Y'all!💋
March 22, 2026
Tyson gave Kyla a Valentine’s Day to remember. Really liked how the two of them grew and had a solid friendship. The ride at Disney and the blackout escapades were very wild. Shawn got handled to the right way after he had the nerve to come back like everything was alright.
March 30, 2026
Yes, all I hear is Do it, Do it by Missy Elliott
The MMC came in and did it, over and over again. I loved this FMC she was secure in herself and had her own mind. He on the other hand pressed go and never let up. Disney as kids vs Disney as adults. I'll take the adult version
The MMC came in and did it, over and over again. I loved this FMC she was secure in herself and had her own mind. He on the other hand pressed go and never let up. Disney as kids vs Disney as adults. I'll take the adult version
April 7, 2026
BARK LIKE YOU WANT IT. BARK LIKE YOU WANT ITTT! Ayyyee!
This was good, and HOT. I love how we got the whole backstory on these two. Them catching up really turned into something beautiful. And if yoi ever got the QUE DOG experience. I’m jealous. 🙄😂
This was good, and HOT. I love how we got the whole backstory on these two. Them catching up really turned into something beautiful. And if yoi ever got the QUE DOG experience. I’m jealous. 🙄😂
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a cute, quick, spicy friends to lovers story. With it being so short, I was glad the spice didn’t overpower the plot.
I enjoyed Ky and Ty’s love story.
I enjoyed Ky and Ty’s love story.
February 9, 2026
I enjoyed this book so much. It truly gave me all the feels and there wasn’t one thing that I would change about this book.
February 9, 2026
whewwww🥵😏
Good an nasty time!!! But this was a great friends to lovers. And we had a little messiness as well. Live it down!!!
Good an nasty time!!! But this was a great friends to lovers. And we had a little messiness as well. Live it down!!!
February 9, 2026
😛😛😛
*church goer finger wave*
MISS Ma’am!!!
Top 10, Top 10, Top 10!
So many of my favorites in one book! 🙂↕️🙂↔️😈🤭
That book was so good!
*church goer finger wave*
MISS Ma’am!!!
Top 10, Top 10, Top 10!
So many of my favorites in one book! 🙂↕️🙂↔️😈🤭
That book was so good!
February 10, 2026
This was a cute and spicy read.
February 13, 2026
It’s a fast-paced, spicy, and ultimately feel-good story.
February 14, 2026
An Omega man.
Disneyland.
Friends to lovers.
Let’s just say…I’ll never ride Pirates of the Caribbean the same 😩
Disneyland.
Friends to lovers.
Let’s just say…I’ll never ride Pirates of the Caribbean the same 😩
February 15, 2026
Another great read
I loved every moment of this book! I laughed so much, and the spice level was top tier. Miko can't miss!
I loved every moment of this book! I laughed so much, and the spice level was top tier. Miko can't miss!
February 15, 2026
Whew!!!
It all starts with a blackout and what follows is a Hot 🔥 but beautiful friends to lovers story that is a definite must read.
It all starts with a blackout and what follows is a Hot 🔥 but beautiful friends to lovers story that is a definite must read.
February 18, 2026
I usually can’t connect with the characters in short stories to rate it above 3…but this was a good short story 👏🏽🌶️🌶️🌶️
March 1, 2026
short and sweet
This was a great read. Short and sweet also spicy. This is a must read if you love romance. First time reading this author and I was impressed.
This was a great read. Short and sweet also spicy. This is a must read if you love romance. First time reading this author and I was impressed.
March 2, 2026
Loved this book down!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews