The Long Game

by Mahogany Elise Noir

Andre Collins has spent his life performing strength on the field, in
business, and in public. An ex-football player turned developer, he’s never
denied his sexuality… but he’s never fully claimed it either. Silence has
always felt safer than truth.

Malik Rivera lives out loud. Big-hearted, unapologetic, and deeply
romantic, he believes love should be expansive never hidden, never half-
claimed. He wants a partner who chooses him with the same openness he
gives so freely.

When their paths intertwine inside the Tea Room, something tender
begins to unfold. Andre is forced to confront the cost of silence, while
Malik must decide whether patience is enough when what he wants is
certainty.

Spring doesn’t rush love.
It asks for honesty.
And it rewards those brave enough to bloom.

220 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 30, 2026

Reviews

[Readingizmytherapy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well Done

And when it comes to doing the damn thing for their debut as a writer, make sure you include @Author Mahogany Elise Noir 👏🏽✨ Babygirl said I got a story to tell and I’m gonna telling while it’s piping hot 🔥📖 and let me tell you… she ain’t stutter NOT ONE TIME 😮‍💨
The Steeped In Love series did not disappoint 😩💋 My good sis said yall are going to remember me and baby CONSIDER IT DONE! 💅🏽💯 Because this wasn’t just a read, it was a whole EXPERIENCE 🎢🔥
New author? Oh she came in like a seasoned vet 😌🏆 pen was PENNING, drama was DRAMA-ING, and the story? Whew… it had me hooked, shook, and booked 📚💥
If you ain’t tapped in yet what are you even doing?? 👀🚨

[Cattera Rune · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Long Game by Mahogany Elise Noir

Whew…this one surprised me in the best way.

This was my first MM romance, and I didn’t quite know what to expect going in. But by the end, I was fully invested in Malik and Andre’s story. Their love was beautifully written, genuine, and easy to connect with.

What I loved most is that their relationship didn’t feel “different”—it felt like every other love story in this series: layered, emotional, and rooted in growth.

I also enjoyed seeing Lila and Mason, Janelle and Isaiah, and the rest of the Steeped In Love series characters continue to evolve alongside them. It made the world feel full and connected.

Malik, in particular, stayed with me. His character, his growth, and everything he’s overcome made him incredibly easy to root for. I’m really looking forward to learning more about his backstory in the next book.

For a debut series, Mahogany Elise Noir truly delivered.

[Tara S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I witnessed the author demonstrating notable growth in her craft. You can tell in Book 3 The Long Game she was passionate about her characters and her writing.
Since Book 1 to Book 3 I feel like Lila, Mason, Isaiah, Janelle, Malik, and Andre are my family.
From the start though Malik was my favorite character, I can’t really explain it but I was drawn to him.

…and what’s a romance story without a little razzle dazzle 😜lol (mystery, resolve, heartbreak, and an iron clad operation). Felt like I was watching my favorite soap opera and didn’t want it to end.
“Nat” you approached this MM romance with a balance of intimacy, character development, and emotional authenticity. And that spice 🌶️ level shot up in this one! Well done my friend!!!

[Sistaharlem · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful Story

A story of finding your truth & living it out loud. A story of lies being exposed & love continuing to grow even after almost being lost.