What do you think?
Cocky
STAR FOOTBALL PLAYER JABARI ‘TITAN’ MCKINGSLEY
HAS BEEN DREADING RETURNING HOME AND FACING THE OBVIOUS OBSESSION HIS LITTLE SISTER’S WEIRD BEST FRIEND HAS WITH HIM.
EXCEPT.
FRANCINE "FRANKIE" CAMPBELL IS ALL GROWN UP NOW AND…
UNINTERESTED?
HAS BEEN DREADING RETURNING HOME AND FACING THE OBVIOUS OBSESSION HIS LITTLE SISTER’S WEIRD BEST FRIEND HAS WITH HIM.
EXCEPT.
FRANCINE "FRANKIE" CAMPBELL IS ALL GROWN UP NOW AND…
UNINTERESTED?
546 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 26, 2026
About the author
Taahesi B. Williams
5 books129 followersTaahesi B. Williams is a debut Indie author from a small island in the Caribbean. She's been writing stories since the age of ten, driven by her love for crafting complex characters and exploring human connections. In addition to writing, She's also an artist and passionate reader.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
April 23, 2026
These two drove me crazy 😫😮💨
Titan came home expecting his little sister’s weird best friend to still be obsessed, only to find Frankie grown, fine, and uninterested. The tension, the attitude, and both of them acting like they didn’t care when they clearly did had me stressed in the best way.
I also loved how Taahesi brought in topics we don’t always see talked about enough PCOS, fat phobia, women being overlooked, toxic mothers, and sibling rivalry. It added so much depth to the story while still giving all the chemistry and chaos.
Titan came home expecting his little sister’s weird best friend to still be obsessed, only to find Frankie grown, fine, and uninterested. The tension, the attitude, and both of them acting like they didn’t care when they clearly did had me stressed in the best way.
I also loved how Taahesi brought in topics we don’t always see talked about enough PCOS, fat phobia, women being overlooked, toxic mothers, and sibling rivalry. It added so much depth to the story while still giving all the chemistry and chaos.
June 13, 2026
Slow burn 3.5
I love that the FMC was feisty, a gamer girl and thick. Normally I don’t fancy sports romance, but here I am. It was good. I wasn’t a fan of how the friendship crumbled. Classic textbook best friends sis is your crush.
I love that the FMC was feisty, a gamer girl and thick. Normally I don’t fancy sports romance, but here I am. It was good. I wasn’t a fan of how the friendship crumbled. Classic textbook best friends sis is your crush.
May 11, 2026
Okay this one was a little long winded at times, I’m not even gonna lie 😭 but overall? I had a really good time with this story.
Jabari and his professional grade buttholeness had me entertained the whole read. Him and Francine already having that built-in rivalry made their banter hit even better. And baby… Francine acting like she didn’t remember that man?? COMEDY. The anguish she put him through was deserved too 🤭
What worked for me most was getting to actually feel the relationship shifting while reading. You start off enjoying the tension and before long you rooting for them bad.
Now Za… sis was aiming her anger at the wrong folks in my opinion and handled some things selfishly. I understood her feelings, but still side-eyed a few decisions.
Overall though, this was a good time and honestly different from the type of books I usually pick up, which made me enjoy it even more. (4.5/5)
Jabari and his professional grade buttholeness had me entertained the whole read. Him and Francine already having that built-in rivalry made their banter hit even better. And baby… Francine acting like she didn’t remember that man?? COMEDY. The anguish she put him through was deserved too 🤭
What worked for me most was getting to actually feel the relationship shifting while reading. You start off enjoying the tension and before long you rooting for them bad.
Now Za… sis was aiming her anger at the wrong folks in my opinion and handled some things selfishly. I understood her feelings, but still side-eyed a few decisions.
Overall though, this was a good time and honestly different from the type of books I usually pick up, which made me enjoy it even more. (4.5/5)
Read
September 26, 2026SPOILER ALEEEEEEERRRRRRRRRRTTT
once again another FMC of taahesi’s that i think was the only bright spot of the entire book
i think both jabari and zaza were selfish and were lowkey playing this tug of war for frankie
zaza was codependent on frankie just because she was the only one that picked her over her brother and the minute that changed she shit a brick
i understand the shock of finding out that frankie and jabari were together but she was entirely too dramatic and disrespectful and if we’re frank i would’ve NEVER forgiven her for calling me a mattress
zaza projected her anger and resentment toward her brother and mother onto frankie but i guess frank loved her too much too call it out, and instead of all the toxic fluff I wished space was given for her to sort that out. maybe their friendship would’ve been better off for it
and all now idk what jabari likes about frankie (which is mad because she has so many likable qualities), i just think he saw her as something to conquer because she was no longer fawning over him. and then toxic madda and no backbone having ass fada😵💫😵💫😵💫. everybody in that house needed to heal
all in all my jamaican sista deserved better sorry not sorry
ps. the jamaican representation and the overall storytelling was so well done! west indian authors just get it
once again another FMC of taahesi’s that i think was the only bright spot of the entire book
i think both jabari and zaza were selfish and were lowkey playing this tug of war for frankie
zaza was codependent on frankie just because she was the only one that picked her over her brother and the minute that changed she shit a brick
i understand the shock of finding out that frankie and jabari were together but she was entirely too dramatic and disrespectful and if we’re frank i would’ve NEVER forgiven her for calling me a mattress
zaza projected her anger and resentment toward her brother and mother onto frankie but i guess frank loved her too much too call it out, and instead of all the toxic fluff I wished space was given for her to sort that out. maybe their friendship would’ve been better off for it
and all now idk what jabari likes about frankie (which is mad because she has so many likable qualities), i just think he saw her as something to conquer because she was no longer fawning over him. and then toxic madda and no backbone having ass fada😵💫😵💫😵💫. everybody in that house needed to heal
all in all my jamaican sista deserved better sorry not sorry
ps. the jamaican representation and the overall storytelling was so well done! west indian authors just get it
March 30, 2026
This was Everything!!!! (Maybe Spoilers)
This is my first book I read by Author Taahesi. When I say I can relate to this book I can relate to this book!!!! She didn’t hold it back she gave the culture and realism full throttle. Making this based in England just was a cherry on top because if it’s not the US the Caribbean and African culture resides in it’s England.
First off the names alone are so coded🤣🤣 Francine and Jabari the couple of this highlighted book had some issues man their start off was so rocky and at one point had me eyeing Jabari real sideways for my sis Frankie. They had things to work on together and separately these issues they had are so real because these types of things happen a lot in the African and Caribbean culture. Where some parents bring in generational trauma or unrealistic expectations that they project onto their kids and this is where Chinaza aka Zaza gets into the fold. She’s a great supporting character but so under-looked by others because she’s not her brother and doesn’t bring what he brings. I love the friendship that she and Frankie had but at the same time I’m sad of their outcome. It’s understandable how this happened and why and it’s apart of life that shows not everything is just black and white there are grey areas. That fight and the explosion of it all my brain keeps running back to it I’m still lowkey just sitting here in raw shocked about it. I feel-if she had said it from the time Zaza asked the outcome wouldn’t have been so bad as when it was exposed. I’m sad about their relationship but at the same time certain changes needed to happen for Jabari, Frankie and ZaZa.
My thoughts are all over the place that I want to express so just bare with me lol. I know some people might view Frankie as difficult but to me she wasn’t she represented fortunately and unfortunately us as women in this world who has on our backs all this load with the added topping of either being African or Caribbean or both. She had things she needed to realize about her self to come to terms with where she needed to be or wanted in the end. Same with Jabari he needed to go through this as well to understand what he needed to change to become a better person; I can say that he was so understanding of Frankie and I loved it even when she cussed him like dog and he cussed her back he didn’t give up 😂. Now the parents the representation of them and their characters are so real especially in the culture because Chinaza and Jabari’s mom pissed me off with her constant ridiculousness and the dads ability to stay out of it which doesn’t help. While Frankie’s mom was those parents that you grew up together with so they’re more understanding but still real but more open for you to go to them. The bantering’s and the way Frankie’s mouth can go toe to toe and her actions especially that supermarket scene she made me love her even more her mouth is so saucy 🤣.
Author Taahesi really brought in the cultures when I tell you no lies she really made us African and Caribbean girls feel so seen from gaming to religions, to anime’s and manga, to the foods, to the sayings, to such relatable relationships with parents, to musical theatre, to PCOS for black women and the issues that unfortunately come with it, to the reality’s of living in this world as young black women. I could go on and on but I just want to thank Author Taahesi for representing us so much !! The day I meet this woman I need to give her a hug or something because she has touched peoples hearts giving people outlets they have experienced as well and I don’t even think she knows it 🫶🙌.
I’m going to be sitting in my thoughts these next couple of days really reminiscing about this book and its characters I can feel how this is going to stir for a while and I would love to hear others takes on this book and Authors Taahesi thoughts on creating this wonderful art. We don’t know what the future holds for this couple and the supporting characters but I have hope it gets even better and with more time it heals to go back to some resemblance of before especially with Frankie and Zaza. Now I’m off to reminisce and check out the rest of this authors catalog and can’t wait to see and read what else she has for the future 🤎🤎
This is my first book I read by Author Taahesi. When I say I can relate to this book I can relate to this book!!!! She didn’t hold it back she gave the culture and realism full throttle. Making this based in England just was a cherry on top because if it’s not the US the Caribbean and African culture resides in it’s England.
First off the names alone are so coded🤣🤣 Francine and Jabari the couple of this highlighted book had some issues man their start off was so rocky and at one point had me eyeing Jabari real sideways for my sis Frankie. They had things to work on together and separately these issues they had are so real because these types of things happen a lot in the African and Caribbean culture. Where some parents bring in generational trauma or unrealistic expectations that they project onto their kids and this is where Chinaza aka Zaza gets into the fold. She’s a great supporting character but so under-looked by others because she’s not her brother and doesn’t bring what he brings. I love the friendship that she and Frankie had but at the same time I’m sad of their outcome. It’s understandable how this happened and why and it’s apart of life that shows not everything is just black and white there are grey areas. That fight and the explosion of it all my brain keeps running back to it I’m still lowkey just sitting here in raw shocked about it. I feel-if she had said it from the time Zaza asked the outcome wouldn’t have been so bad as when it was exposed. I’m sad about their relationship but at the same time certain changes needed to happen for Jabari, Frankie and ZaZa.
My thoughts are all over the place that I want to express so just bare with me lol. I know some people might view Frankie as difficult but to me she wasn’t she represented fortunately and unfortunately us as women in this world who has on our backs all this load with the added topping of either being African or Caribbean or both. She had things she needed to realize about her self to come to terms with where she needed to be or wanted in the end. Same with Jabari he needed to go through this as well to understand what he needed to change to become a better person; I can say that he was so understanding of Frankie and I loved it even when she cussed him like dog and he cussed her back he didn’t give up 😂. Now the parents the representation of them and their characters are so real especially in the culture because Chinaza and Jabari’s mom pissed me off with her constant ridiculousness and the dads ability to stay out of it which doesn’t help. While Frankie’s mom was those parents that you grew up together with so they’re more understanding but still real but more open for you to go to them. The bantering’s and the way Frankie’s mouth can go toe to toe and her actions especially that supermarket scene she made me love her even more her mouth is so saucy 🤣.
Author Taahesi really brought in the cultures when I tell you no lies she really made us African and Caribbean girls feel so seen from gaming to religions, to anime’s and manga, to the foods, to the sayings, to such relatable relationships with parents, to musical theatre, to PCOS for black women and the issues that unfortunately come with it, to the reality’s of living in this world as young black women. I could go on and on but I just want to thank Author Taahesi for representing us so much !! The day I meet this woman I need to give her a hug or something because she has touched peoples hearts giving people outlets they have experienced as well and I don’t even think she knows it 🫶🙌.
I’m going to be sitting in my thoughts these next couple of days really reminiscing about this book and its characters I can feel how this is going to stir for a while and I would love to hear others takes on this book and Authors Taahesi thoughts on creating this wonderful art. We don’t know what the future holds for this couple and the supporting characters but I have hope it gets even better and with more time it heals to go back to some resemblance of before especially with Frankie and Zaza. Now I’m off to reminisce and check out the rest of this authors catalog and can’t wait to see and read what else she has for the future 🤎🤎
September 29, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Cinco estrellas.
Mira, yo le voy a decir una cosa: este protagonista es lo que un verdadero hombre es.
Cada vez que él hacía algo, yo decía: “Ay, qué hombre”. Tiene sus fallas y sus falencias, sí, pero sigue siendo un hombre. Un hombre hecho y derecho. Un hombre que, Dios mío, era increíble.
Yo decía: esto no puede estar existiendo.
Fue exactamente como yo esperaba que fuera. Increíble.
Me leí esta historia en un solo día y es larga, porque tiene bastantes páginas, pero valió completamente la pena. Valió la pena. Dios mío, qué buen libro.
Con cada interacción entre los protagonistas yo estaba como: “¡Sí!”. Me encantó absolutamente todo lo que tenían entre ellos. Cada interacción, cada momento, cada cosa que él hacía… yo simplemente estaba disfrutando la historia.
Y el título, por cierto, es totalmente cierto en cuanto al protagonista. Él realmente va cambiando a medida que avanza el libro. Yo desde el principio estaba diciendo: “Dios mío, qué jodón”, pero después vas viendo cómo va evolucionando y cómo se va convirtiendo en todo lo que termina siendo.
También amé muchísimo la relación de la protagonista con su mamá.
La relación madre e hija me encantó completamente. Me gustó muchísimo cómo estaba construida y fue una de esas relaciones que disfruté de verdad durante toda la historia.
Ahora, lo único que me dejó un sinsabor fue lo de la mejor amiga y, sobre todo, el epílogo.
No sé. Me dejó como algo raro que no me termina de cuadrar.
Tú no puedes tener una amistad de tantos años y fracturarla así por algo. A mí me pareció demasiado exagerada esa ruptura. Yo tengo amigas y, sinceramente, no creo que mi amiga y yo hubiéramos afrontado una situación así de esa manera.
Pero también entiendo que no todas las amistades son iguales y que cada persona enfrenta las cosas de una manera diferente.
Lo que sí sentí fue que ella estaba intentando culpar a todas las demás personas por algo que, en realidad, ella misma no podía afrontar. Y por eso me pareció un poco exagerada toda la situación.
Pero, fuera de eso, la historia fue buenísima.
Buenísima.
Yo amé cada una de las interacciones de los protagonistas. Amé cómo él se volvía loco, amé cómo iba cambiando y, en general, disfruté muchísimo el desarrollo de la historia.
Me lo leí en un solo día a pesar de lo largo que es, y eso para mí dice muchísimo.
Así que sí, cinco estrellas.
Dios mío, qué buen libro.
Léanse este libro. Estuvo buenísimo.
Cinco estrellas.
Mira, yo le voy a decir una cosa: este protagonista es lo que un verdadero hombre es.
Cada vez que él hacía algo, yo decía: “Ay, qué hombre”. Tiene sus fallas y sus falencias, sí, pero sigue siendo un hombre. Un hombre hecho y derecho. Un hombre que, Dios mío, era increíble.
Yo decía: esto no puede estar existiendo.
Fue exactamente como yo esperaba que fuera. Increíble.
Me leí esta historia en un solo día y es larga, porque tiene bastantes páginas, pero valió completamente la pena. Valió la pena. Dios mío, qué buen libro.
Con cada interacción entre los protagonistas yo estaba como: “¡Sí!”. Me encantó absolutamente todo lo que tenían entre ellos. Cada interacción, cada momento, cada cosa que él hacía… yo simplemente estaba disfrutando la historia.
Y el título, por cierto, es totalmente cierto en cuanto al protagonista. Él realmente va cambiando a medida que avanza el libro. Yo desde el principio estaba diciendo: “Dios mío, qué jodón”, pero después vas viendo cómo va evolucionando y cómo se va convirtiendo en todo lo que termina siendo.
También amé muchísimo la relación de la protagonista con su mamá.
La relación madre e hija me encantó completamente. Me gustó muchísimo cómo estaba construida y fue una de esas relaciones que disfruté de verdad durante toda la historia.
Ahora, lo único que me dejó un sinsabor fue lo de la mejor amiga y, sobre todo, el epílogo.
No sé. Me dejó como algo raro que no me termina de cuadrar.
Tú no puedes tener una amistad de tantos años y fracturarla así por algo. A mí me pareció demasiado exagerada esa ruptura. Yo tengo amigas y, sinceramente, no creo que mi amiga y yo hubiéramos afrontado una situación así de esa manera.
Pero también entiendo que no todas las amistades son iguales y que cada persona enfrenta las cosas de una manera diferente.
Lo que sí sentí fue que ella estaba intentando culpar a todas las demás personas por algo que, en realidad, ella misma no podía afrontar. Y por eso me pareció un poco exagerada toda la situación.
Pero, fuera de eso, la historia fue buenísima.
Buenísima.
Yo amé cada una de las interacciones de los protagonistas. Amé cómo él se volvía loco, amé cómo iba cambiando y, en general, disfruté muchísimo el desarrollo de la historia.
Me lo leí en un solo día a pesar de lo largo que es, y eso para mí dice muchísimo.
Así que sí, cinco estrellas.
Dios mío, qué buen libro.
Léanse este libro. Estuvo buenísimo.
April 12, 2026
Jabari x Frankie
Cocky completely exceeded my expectations and reminded me why I love character-driven romance so much.
The story follows star footballer Jabari “Titan” McKingsley, who reluctantly returns home expecting to deal with the same awkward dynamic he left behind his little sister’s best friend, Francine “Frankie” Campbell, and her obvious childhood obsession with him. Except things aren’t the same anymore. Frankie is all grown up… and surprisingly uninterested.
From the very beginning, Taahesi B. Williams proves once again how skilled she is at writing complex, layered characters. It would have been easy to dismiss both Jabari and Frankie at first glance he’s confident to the point of arrogance, and she’s guarded in ways that initially feel distant. But the deeper you go into the story, the more their vulnerabilities, motivations, and emotional depth unfold. I found myself falling in love with both characters early on, flaws and all.
What stood out most to me was the growth. This story celebrates unapologetically being yourself while still allowing space for reflection and change. Both Jabari and Frankie evolve in meaningful ways, and their journey toward understanding themselves and each other felt genuine and earned.
As someone who loves sports romances, I was pleasantly surprised by how invested I became in Jabari’s career. Even without knowing much about soccer/football, the way Williams weaves the sport into the narrative made it engaging and emotional rather than purely technical. His career pressures and personal expectations added another layer of tension and realism to the story.
Another highlight is the rich familial and cultural dynamics throughout the book. The relationships surrounding the main characters add depth and authenticity, making the story feel bigger than just the romance. These elements give the novel heart and make the emotional stakes even stronger.
Overall, Cocky felt like a breath of fresh air. It’s a story about growth, identity, love, and learning to see people for who they truly are not who they used to be.
Cocky completely exceeded my expectations and reminded me why I love character-driven romance so much.
The story follows star footballer Jabari “Titan” McKingsley, who reluctantly returns home expecting to deal with the same awkward dynamic he left behind his little sister’s best friend, Francine “Frankie” Campbell, and her obvious childhood obsession with him. Except things aren’t the same anymore. Frankie is all grown up… and surprisingly uninterested.
From the very beginning, Taahesi B. Williams proves once again how skilled she is at writing complex, layered characters. It would have been easy to dismiss both Jabari and Frankie at first glance he’s confident to the point of arrogance, and she’s guarded in ways that initially feel distant. But the deeper you go into the story, the more their vulnerabilities, motivations, and emotional depth unfold. I found myself falling in love with both characters early on, flaws and all.
What stood out most to me was the growth. This story celebrates unapologetically being yourself while still allowing space for reflection and change. Both Jabari and Frankie evolve in meaningful ways, and their journey toward understanding themselves and each other felt genuine and earned.
As someone who loves sports romances, I was pleasantly surprised by how invested I became in Jabari’s career. Even without knowing much about soccer/football, the way Williams weaves the sport into the narrative made it engaging and emotional rather than purely technical. His career pressures and personal expectations added another layer of tension and realism to the story.
Another highlight is the rich familial and cultural dynamics throughout the book. The relationships surrounding the main characters add depth and authenticity, making the story feel bigger than just the romance. These elements give the novel heart and make the emotional stakes even stronger.
Overall, Cocky felt like a breath of fresh air. It’s a story about growth, identity, love, and learning to see people for who they truly are not who they used to be.
July 3, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
I truly truly enjoyed this books and don’t think I’ve read something so intriguing before. Now I’m not the biggest sports romance girlie. I like them here and there but this one was totally different. First… I’ve never read a sports romance that was futbol (soccer) based and that alone had me excited.
My husband is heavy into the Futbol stuff! So I’ve been getting more into and learning so much. So to get a story that has Soccer and a FMC who is Jamaican (I’m also Jamaican as well as half of my family and all of my husbands family ) and stubborn and strong willed !? Yes yes and yes!
This book took me all over the place but I loved that we got to see Frankie and Jabari grow. As individuals as well as together. You can tell Frankie was trying her best not to look for Jabari but phew was he persistent!!!
I think I also relate a lot to Za as well in the way her mother and her relationship was, those who know know of course. I was beyond invested and I’m convinced this will live rent free in my head for sure!
Can’t wait to see what else this author has to offer.
I truly truly enjoyed this books and don’t think I’ve read something so intriguing before. Now I’m not the biggest sports romance girlie. I like them here and there but this one was totally different. First… I’ve never read a sports romance that was futbol (soccer) based and that alone had me excited.
My husband is heavy into the Futbol stuff! So I’ve been getting more into and learning so much. So to get a story that has Soccer and a FMC who is Jamaican (I’m also Jamaican as well as half of my family and all of my husbands family ) and stubborn and strong willed !? Yes yes and yes!
This book took me all over the place but I loved that we got to see Frankie and Jabari grow. As individuals as well as together. You can tell Frankie was trying her best not to look for Jabari but phew was he persistent!!!
I think I also relate a lot to Za as well in the way her mother and her relationship was, those who know know of course. I was beyond invested and I’m convinced this will live rent free in my head for sure!
Can’t wait to see what else this author has to offer.
Review of advance copy received from Author
TROPES:
🎮Enemies to Lovers
🎮Best Friend’s Brother
🎮Forbidden Romance
🎮He Falls First
whew this was a sloooooow burn, it’s been a minute since I read a burn so slow but when she said loathing to lovers….that’s exactly what is was and they don’t fall fast!!
So, I understand the title quick because in the beginning my face was all crunched up at Jabari. He is way too full of himself, thinking he too good for everything and everybody. Then i’m rolling my eyes at Frankie because she was confused right along with Jabari cause what are we doing I don’t got time for your attitude 😂
Za got me yelling “STAND UP FOR YOURSELF”
Chile these characters put my on a rollercoaster ride, I didn’t know how it would end tbh nor did I expect that kind of ending…i’m not even sure i’m accepting of the ending either but I liked it. Cocky they were
fun fact: the cast is multi-cultured and that made me magically read in an accent…it was only right lol 🤷🏽♀️😂
🎮Enemies to Lovers
🎮Best Friend’s Brother
🎮Forbidden Romance
🎮He Falls First
whew this was a sloooooow burn, it’s been a minute since I read a burn so slow but when she said loathing to lovers….that’s exactly what is was and they don’t fall fast!!
So, I understand the title quick because in the beginning my face was all crunched up at Jabari. He is way too full of himself, thinking he too good for everything and everybody. Then i’m rolling my eyes at Frankie because she was confused right along with Jabari cause what are we doing I don’t got time for your attitude 😂
Za got me yelling “STAND UP FOR YOURSELF”
Chile these characters put my on a rollercoaster ride, I didn’t know how it would end tbh nor did I expect that kind of ending…i’m not even sure i’m accepting of the ending either but I liked it. Cocky they were
fun fact: the cast is multi-cultured and that made me magically read in an accent…it was only right lol 🤷🏽♀️😂
June 21, 2026
I wanted to like this so much more than I did, but ultimately, I found it redundant. The main conflict was dragged out for about 500 pages & then quickly petered out.
Jabari started off insufferable, but then became my favorite character. Frankie was my least favorite character. I know we all have traumas & triggers but she was just so childish. Every other chapter she’s trying to end things with Jabari or saying something that made me go “ok well she’s clearly not as secure in her body as she wants us to think she is.”
I think with a bit more editing & sharpening of characters, this could be really good. As is, it felt too childish & repetitive for me to really enjoy. I do want to read more from this author, though. I think this book fell flat for me personally, but that I could probably still find enjoyment in others by them.
Jabari started off insufferable, but then became my favorite character. Frankie was my least favorite character. I know we all have traumas & triggers but she was just so childish. Every other chapter she’s trying to end things with Jabari or saying something that made me go “ok well she’s clearly not as secure in her body as she wants us to think she is.”
I think with a bit more editing & sharpening of characters, this could be really good. As is, it felt too childish & repetitive for me to really enjoy. I do want to read more from this author, though. I think this book fell flat for me personally, but that I could probably still find enjoyment in others by them.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First, thank you to Taahesi for the opportunity to review!
Once again, I am blown away by a Taahesi B. book. I want to give so much credit to the way she writes complex characters. It would be easy for me to write off both MCs-but I fell in love early on with both- flaws and all. There is a lot of growth and unapologetic being oneself in this book, and I love how the writing highlights that. I am a sports romance girlie, and for not knowing much about soccer/football, I was also super invested in the aspect of Jabari’s career. Also, as a Blue Lock girl, not disappointed 😂 The familial and cultural dynamics that came into play make the story even more meaningful.
Theo got some competition. Well done!
Once again, I am blown away by a Taahesi B. book. I want to give so much credit to the way she writes complex characters. It would be easy for me to write off both MCs-but I fell in love early on with both- flaws and all. There is a lot of growth and unapologetic being oneself in this book, and I love how the writing highlights that. I am a sports romance girlie, and for not knowing much about soccer/football, I was also super invested in the aspect of Jabari’s career. Also, as a Blue Lock girl, not disappointed 😂 The familial and cultural dynamics that came into play make the story even more meaningful.
Theo got some competition. Well done!
June 14, 2026
A good read
Taahesi has a way of writing her characters where polar opposites gravitate towards each others & it makes an interesting story. Francine “Frankie” is captivating as this alt girl. She’s covered in tattoos & piercings, inhibition free, and unapologetic. Frankie and her best friend Za are an inseparable pair until Za’s brother returns back home. Jabari is a footballer who’s aiming to become a star. After returning home the least thing he expects is to fall for the girl who has been apart of his family dynamic since childhood.
Jabari & Frankie’s banter is what makes this story fun. The sarcasm and attraction works for their coupling and it’s such a nice journey of reading their love story unfold throughout the pages.
Taahesi has a way of writing her characters where polar opposites gravitate towards each others & it makes an interesting story. Francine “Frankie” is captivating as this alt girl. She’s covered in tattoos & piercings, inhibition free, and unapologetic. Frankie and her best friend Za are an inseparable pair until Za’s brother returns back home. Jabari is a footballer who’s aiming to become a star. After returning home the least thing he expects is to fall for the girl who has been apart of his family dynamic since childhood.
Jabari & Frankie’s banter is what makes this story fun. The sarcasm and attraction works for their coupling and it’s such a nice journey of reading their love story unfold throughout the pages.
May 15, 2026
Arc review
Honestly I could not stand Jabari in the beginning!! OMG, the arrogance, the nonchalant way of thinking That everything is due to him… bro what ?? And the way he was so oblivious to his mom and sister relationship ??? HELLO !!! Get down ! Anyway, I open up my heart even though I still think he was stupid, he was very crazy in love with Francine. I like the pressure he was applying, making her more open to the idea that she deserved to be loved properly. Their relationship definitely gave me some headaches but hey, it’s a Taheesi b Williams book so… Surprisingly I wasn’t so mad at Frankie, she was very hot and cold but I think I just get her.
Honestly I could not stand Jabari in the beginning!! OMG, the arrogance, the nonchalant way of thinking That everything is due to him… bro what ?? And the way he was so oblivious to his mom and sister relationship ??? HELLO !!! Get down ! Anyway, I open up my heart even though I still think he was stupid, he was very crazy in love with Francine. I like the pressure he was applying, making her more open to the idea that she deserved to be loved properly. Their relationship definitely gave me some headaches but hey, it’s a Taheesi b Williams book so… Surprisingly I wasn’t so mad at Frankie, she was very hot and cold but I think I just get her.
May 29, 2026
Highly recommend!!!
I love this book so much. I never leave reviews but I had to. This is my first sports romance and honestly I’m in love. I seriously need to get the physical copy to put on my bookshelf. I loved that the characters weren’t perfect. I laughed, I cried, I was upset and I was happy all over again lol. If you want a story that has character development, friendship that feels like sisterhood and a mmc that’s down bad for the fmc then this is the book for you. I can’t wait to read more from Taahesi.
I love this book so much. I never leave reviews but I had to. This is my first sports romance and honestly I’m in love. I seriously need to get the physical copy to put on my bookshelf. I loved that the characters weren’t perfect. I laughed, I cried, I was upset and I was happy all over again lol. If you want a story that has character development, friendship that feels like sisterhood and a mmc that’s down bad for the fmc then this is the book for you. I can’t wait to read more from Taahesi.
June 17, 2026
This was a good read! It started off a little slow, I’ll admit. But once the main characters stopped playing games it got better. Frankie was really funny. Sometimes she was a bit much, like girl stop being so hard. I liked the banter between Frankie and Jabari. I liked when she finally soften up to Jabari. Jabari is so patient and I loved it. The part that annoyed me was the whole issue with Za finding out about the relationship. I feel like she made it TOO big of a deal. Like girl they are grown. Please. I recommend this book. I can’t wait to read more by the author.
August 3, 2026
This is a story about love, friendship, and learning to stand in your own two feet as an adult. The author developed rich characters with complexity and nuance. I loved the plus sized gamer FMC. I had some big feels about the MMC initially but then he more I read the better I got him.
The story was paced well. Nothing was rushed. The story progressed in a believable way. The story makes us navigate sibling rivalry, sexism, gender double standards, childhood traumas.but all in a way that was heartfelt and enjoyable. I look forward to reading more of this authors work.
The story was paced well. Nothing was rushed. The story progressed in a believable way. The story makes us navigate sibling rivalry, sexism, gender double standards, childhood traumas.but all in a way that was heartfelt and enjoyable. I look forward to reading more of this authors work.
May 17, 2026
wheeeew!
Taahesi don’t play with these characters that make you feel deep 😩 I shuffled between tears, laughter, frustrated screams, and life changing experiences through these characters.
I loved their journey of learning to find security in being strong without stunting growth and getting to those starting stages of healing. I’m without a doubt gonna carry this story with me for some time.
Taahesi don’t play with these characters that make you feel deep 😩 I shuffled between tears, laughter, frustrated screams, and life changing experiences through these characters.
I loved their journey of learning to find security in being strong without stunting growth and getting to those starting stages of healing. I’m without a doubt gonna carry this story with me for some time.
May 26, 2026
I hate to say this but…. Jabari was my favorite character, apart from Frankie’s mom. Frankie was unbearable at times, I completely understand why she was guarded but at the same time…. GIRLLLL chill out a little bit. Zaza might’ve been my least favorite character but I’d be lying if I said I wouldn’t be open to a second book about her romance or potential love story with Amin. Now that right there, that would be good! Overall, it was an okay read that kept me invested.
May 2, 2026
CROYDON!!!!!!
Other than the fact that the majority of people who go Wetherspoons in the uk, especially if you are from Croydon, are white I liked this. Just needed a lot more of the Nigerian and Jamaican culture in it which was overwhelmed by the religion part.
The story of these two was really enjoyable.
Other than the fact that the majority of people who go Wetherspoons in the uk, especially if you are from Croydon, are white I liked this. Just needed a lot more of the Nigerian and Jamaican culture in it which was overwhelmed by the religion part.
The story of these two was really enjoyable.
June 5, 2026
The banter is top tier between Jabari & Frankie. You'll genuinely laugh throughout this book! And even cry just a little. Imagine you're crushing on your bestie brother as a kid, then the tables turn as an adult. Do you give in? 10/10! Can't wait to get the physical copy. Also shout out for the PCOS, musicals (Six!) and West Indies representation!
June 14, 2026
The back and forth between Jabari and Frankie was beautiful. I’m pretty sure I laughed out loud at a few points. I appreciated Jabari’s character development but if we’re being honest, it was extremely necessary.
I wasn’t a fan of how the ending, however the way it’s written feels more realistic to that type of scenario.
I wasn’t a fan of how the ending, however the way it’s written feels more realistic to that type of scenario.
July 10, 2026
Y’know What…Heck Yeah!
To be honest, this book was a journey. I honestly did not expect the roller coaster ride it took me on for real. The relationship dynamics between the past and the present was described perfectly. It truly painted the picture and brought their story to life for me.
To be honest, this book was a journey. I honestly did not expect the roller coaster ride it took me on for real. The relationship dynamics between the past and the present was described perfectly. It truly painted the picture and brought their story to life for me.
July 27, 2026
A Thought Provoking Novel on Maturity
Amazing story with tons of depth for characters that are beautifully multifaceted. Being able to see the different perspectives of the main cast prove the dedication of Ms. Williams to showing that there’s not necessarily black or white to some situations but tons of shades of grey.
Amazing story with tons of depth for characters that are beautifully multifaceted. Being able to see the different perspectives of the main cast prove the dedication of Ms. Williams to showing that there’s not necessarily black or white to some situations but tons of shades of grey.
August 12, 2026
Idk
I'm not sure whether I liked it or didn't. To be honest. It took me a minute to finish reading it. There are parts that hit for me. And parts that didn't. Each character had things I liked about them. And things I absolutely didn't like about them. I still want to read a couple of her other works. This one was just an ok read for me.
I'm not sure whether I liked it or didn't. To be honest. It took me a minute to finish reading it. There are parts that hit for me. And parts that didn't. Each character had things I liked about them. And things I absolutely didn't like about them. I still want to read a couple of her other works. This one was just an ok read for me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’d like to thank Taahesi for the opportunity to get an ARC of this book.
I love her writing. That being said, she can’t do any wrong in my eyes and unfortunately has made me a lifelong fan. I think this lowkey might’ve been my favorite book of hers so far.
I love her writing. That being said, she can’t do any wrong in my eyes and unfortunately has made me a lifelong fan. I think this lowkey might’ve been my favorite book of hers so far.
March 30, 2026
COCKY AF
Taahesi, you did it again girl. This book was so good I didn’t want it to end. Frankie was such a stubborn FMC but I loved her even still. The title of this book is so fitting because Jabari was every bit of cocky. Loved this read so much!!!
Taahesi, you did it again girl. This book was so good I didn’t want it to end. Frankie was such a stubborn FMC but I loved her even still. The title of this book is so fitting because Jabari was every bit of cocky. Loved this read so much!!!
July 22, 2026
I liked it and the fact that the characters were flawed but at some point they were really just disregarding the sisters feelings and I didnt like how they friendship ended. It didnt feel right but maybe that's me
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2026
Great read
Not what I expected, but I definitely enjoyed the book. Her character development and complexity was top tier. Although one of the characters worked my nerves for a bit. LOL! But I enjoyed this book on to the next from this author.
Not what I expected, but I definitely enjoyed the book. Her character development and complexity was top tier. Although one of the characters worked my nerves for a bit. LOL! But I enjoyed this book on to the next from this author.
June 15, 2026
3.5/4 stars
I loved them and there bickering
I loved them and there bickering
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