Going Toe to Toe

Six Gems #5

by Yahrah St. John, André Santana (Narrator), LaDonna Raeh (Narrator)

After their no-strings fling in paradise, Lyric and Devon never thought they’d see each other again. Until they did. Now they have very different ideas about what the future holds…

Sometimes you just have to take the leap…

What happens in Aruba, stays in Aruba… That’s what former ballerina Lyric Taylor keeps telling herself, at least. After all, now that the curtain has closed on her ballet career, and with the search for her biological parents stalling, she could use a little distraction. So when a lodging mix-up leads to an unexpected fling in paradise with her sexy bunkmate, Devon, Lyric takes the plunge. Seven days of sun, sand and plenty of sizzle—and when it’s time to go home, their no-strings sitch will come to an end… Right?

Single dad Devon Masters spent the last eight years shielding his daughter, Kianna, from life’s disappointments—and he’s gotten pretty good at cutting pain off at the pass. But nothing can prepare him for this latest discovering Lyric Taylor is Kianna’s new dance teacher. What happened in Aruba seems to have followed them home, but they’ll have to keep it under wraps for as long as they can. Soon, however, new feelings take hold and old wounds resurface. Will they finally find the rhythm they need to redefine what belonging truly means?

Going Toe to Toe is a spicy, fast-paced romance you can read in one sitting.

Genres: Romance, African American Romance, Harlequin, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance

Audible Audio

Expected publication July 7, 2026

About the author

Yahrah St. John is the International author of forty two books. When she’s not at home crafting one of her sexy romances with compelling heroes and feisty heroines with a dash of family drama, St. John can be found in the kitchen cooking one of her gourmet meals discovered on the Food Network for her husband. Or this thrill-seeking junky can be found traveling the globe seeking out her next adventure.

A graduate of Hyde Park Career Academy, she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Northwestern University. St. John is a member of Romance Writers of America, but is an avid reader of all genres. St. John lives in sunny Orlando, the City Beautiful.

For more information, please visit:
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Reviews

[Wobilba · Rating 3 out of 5]

I did quiet like this story.Devon and Lyric have such an amazing chemistry. I would've loved it more if the Devon wasn't a giant a-hole and not the fun kind too (he definitely needs extensive therapy).
Lyric was phenomenal and I love her and her friend group, the six gems. I love how they love and support each other while never BS'ing each other too! They are are the true definition of sisterhood.
I did love Devon's kid Kianna too. She's a cutie.

Thanks to Harlequin Romance(Afterglow Books) and Netgalley for the ARC!

[Uyen · Rating 2 out of 5]

Dnf 100 pages left

The beginning was fine. I enjoyed their fling and how they got to know each other.

But two things that made me stop reading this.

1. Devon’s fast assumption and hate towards dance was too much. Like idc if that’s the reason for him and his ex not working out…he has issues he needs to work on. And he’s claiming that he was feeling something for her but is able to make a snap assumption like the one he made? Unattractive.

2. At one point they were talking about how he is a good father. They also use the general phrase of being a parent. At no point did they bring up race in this conversation, but Devon goes off and says “but black women do it all the time…” in response to her saying he’s a good father.

Like what is the point of saying that? And why bring race to this? It just feels like it feeds into a stereotype and unnecessary.

Thank you Harlequin publicity team for the arc. My opinions are my own.

[amarachireads · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted to read this book because of the cute cover but unfortunately, I ended up being a bit disappointed in the story. First, this book is an instant lust romance which I'm normally not a fan of but them being together by 15 % and falling in love by 30% was way too much for me. The spicy scenes started very early in the book and it was a lot for characters that were just meeting each other at a vacation resort. The main characters in this book meet after they have to share a resort room due to a confusion. They are instantly lustful of each other and decide to have a no-feelings string for the remainder of the vacation. The mmc is widowed and the fmc doesn't have a lot of experience with relationships but they fall for each other but don't tell each other. As they leave the resort the mmc gets annoyed when he sees the fmc with someone and thinks the weekend was a lie. Flash forward to some time after and the MMC's daughter is in the fmc ballets class, they resist each other at first but then decide to hook up again for as long as it lasts.

The romance was okay, I thought it was cute but it did rely very much on their chemistry and sexy times which to me didn't develop their relationship well. The main issue I had was with some micro-aggressive stereotypes about race that was probably unintentionally put in the book. The fmc is a biracial black woman raised by her white parents who adopted her. She lived her life mainly in a white space and she mentioned not fitting in perfectly with her identities. There was a particular statement that perpetuated a stereotype about black mothers that caught my attention and wasn't necessary. It shaped the rest of the book and I think it could have been worded better.

Overall this is a short read and me not enjoying it is just my opinion and you may like it especially if you like instant love, single father trope, diverse characters, and lots of spice. Thank you, HTTP for the arc.

[N.G. Peltier · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the concept of this book but damn the hero was being such an asshole and there needed to be more groveling! or any groveling for that matter. Yeahh he said sorry or whatever but after the first part where they were in Aruba and in the little vacay bubble, the asshole side came out of Devon. And meh I don't think he ever redeemed himself for me.

Liiike ok you got issues surrounding dance/dancers cuz your ex wife was one and neglected you during the marriage but shouting at your daughter when you realize she wants to dance too? No man. Also the way he was being with Lyric after that "what are we?" discussion?? I actually wanted her to just leave an never come back TBH.

There were some things throughout that was also a bit too repetitive. I don't need to keep knowing her eyes are almond-shaped and other things were said over and overrr.

I did love the Gems and that Lyric had this amazing support system. Didn't really see that for Devon though, with any males friends shown, just his sister so I wished he had that too. Would have been great to see the juxtaposition between their friend groups.

[January · Rating 5 out of 5]

Going Toe to Toe by Yahrah. St. John (2024)
Six Gems #5
287-page Kindle Ebook story pages 8-285

Genre: Contemporary Romance, African-American Romance

Featuring: Mentions Previous Book Author's Links through Publisher, Ballerina, Dance Studio Owner/Instructor, Aruba, Hotel Resort, Close Proximity Trope, Vacation Trope, Fling-to-Lovers Trope, Adoptee, Birth Mother Trope, Memphis, Tennessee; Divorcé, Single Parent, Insecurities, Sexual Inexperienced, Recap of Previous Books, Transracial Adoption, Sex - Detailed, Dealing With Major Life Event Trope, Travel, Germantown, Tennessee; January, Girlfriends Group, Friendship, Family Dynamics, Collierville, Tennessee; Tricenarians, Friendship, Restaurateur, Realtor, Former Tennis Pro, Travel Blogger, Fitness/ Yoga Instructor, San Antonio, Texas; Subtle Racism, Motherless Child, Ballet Classes, Self-Actualization, Spoilers for Previous Books, Tucson, Arizona; Look for Lyric’s story, Going Toe to Toe, Excerpt from How to Charm a Nerd by Katherine Garbera

Rating as a movie: XXX

Songs for the soundtrack: "Locked Out of Heaven" by Bruno Mars, "I Will Survive" by Gloria Gaynor, "Get Me Bodied" by Beyonce,

Books and Authors mentioned: The Ice-Maiden by Hans Christian Andersen, More Than A Princess by Delanda Coleman

Memorable Quotes: A man wearing a linen suit and tie approaches us with a somber expression. “My name is Ross Murphy, general manager of the resort. My apologies to you both for the mishap. Here at the Five Stars Resort and Spa, we pride ourselves on excellence, and mistakes like this are few and far between. If one of you is willing to downgrade, we will comp your entire stay due to this unfortunate circumstance.” “That sounds like an excellent idea.” I glance over at the hottie, expecting him to do the gentlemanly thing and accept the offer, but he doesn’t. He folds his arms across his broad chest, revealing indecently large biceps, and I find myself swallowing hard. “I’m sorry, but it’s a no-go for me,” he says. “I want the villa.” Ross turns to me. “Would you be willing to downgrade to an ocean-view room?” It sounds like a good deal, at first but then I think about the pictures of the beachfront villa the Gems showed me when they convinced me to take this trip. Steps away from pristine Eagle Beach, I’d imagined walking out onto the sand with my morning cup of coffee and finally figuring out how I wanted to handle the choices in my life. How can I give that up? “I’m sorry, but I want the villa, too.” Ross stares exasperatedly at both of us, unsure of what to do next. “How many bedrooms does the villa have?” the hottie asks. “Two,” Ross states. “How about we both stay in the villa?” the hottie suggests. “I can stay out of your way because I’m here for some self-reflection, if you can do the same?” I don’t like the idea, but if I want the villa—if I want that slow, quiet beach time to figure out my next steps—I don’t have much choice. Since neither of us is willing to compromise, a feasible solution is to share the space. I’m not used to sharing a suite except with the Gems, let alone with someone of the opposite sex or someone as gorgeous as Mr. Hottie. But part of me finds the idea appealing.

My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟👩🏾‍🤝‍👩🏿👭🏿👩🏿‍🤝‍👩🏾💕🩰

My thoughts: 📕 I'm finally back where I almost started. I'm interested to see what you miss if you jump in here.
🔖Page 18 of 287 Two Devon - No spoilers so far and I love the plot.
🔖105 Fourteen Lyric - Jumping in seems to be okay, This book starts before the start of the previous book (January vs March) so you may have to relieve some events but if it follows the pattern it will be from a different angle like details of an event that was only mentioned in previous books but only listing an event you've already experienced. I noticed how they mentioned Teagan serving to try to set up her new identity for the next book. I have half a mind to rebel because you've only mentioned her being a realtor in the past and all of a sudden now she's a former tennis pro. I already knew how this story was going to go once they were on vacation I knew was gonna be a "Oh my goodness you live in the same town, I thought I'd never see you again!" But instead of the surprise I was used to they revealed it on the vacation but I guess since they were on the same planes they kind of figured. Because he is a single father and she owns a dance studio I totally read this story a few times already, but I love it every time so I'm here for it. I haven't read a single story with this plot that was identical to another book beyond the actual plot. I would be thrilled if there was an accidental vacation baby, but I won't press my luck.
🔖118 [6 pages into Chapter] Fifteen Lyric - This timeline messed up in the last book which was set in March Asia was still pregnant at the end of the book but this story is set in January ( And there is a scene near the end of the book about Lyric having something on her mind and keeping a secret) now Asia had her baby months ago, as in last year, and I don't know if the Book 1 wedding has happened yet, but this timeline is getting out of hand.
🔖166 Twenty-One Devon - Well this is probably getting pushed to tomorrow.
🔖208 Twenty-Five Devon - There’s a chance I might be able to sneak away before midnight and finish this. It's very good although I wish they would communicate more, a little frustrated by what they're not saying as usual. The timeline is even more off but I'm just going ignore that from now on.

The spoilers here have fewer details than the previous books so it's more of a jump-in, but you will get spoilers (the obvious after you read the blurb kind) and unfortunately, inconsistencies as this story doesn't line up with previous books as well as the early part of the series. I would have been okay jumping in here but I'm so glad I didn't. The story between Devon and Lyric is a common one but this was beautifully written and had plenty of surprises, the series seems to get steamier with each book and this was the steamiest by far, which surprised me considering this girl is half a virgin, but it was the details that made it so nit the scenes themselves. I'm not a fan of changing up things mid-series, but I like how each book seems to evolve so you're not just reading carbon copies of the same book, especially since the first 2 cut-copy-pasted love scenes. I'm struggling with the new tennis element added to Teagan's story, but I like a good Enemies-to-Lovers, keyword good, so I'm interested in meeting her former rival, maybe he's in real estate too. I also appreciate the flexibility in scenery this series has with ⅔ of the characters living out of state. I was a bit disappointed when I discovered each book wasn't going to have the MC packing up and starting a business in San Antonio, but it has been great checking out these different cities and I love how she used real bedroom towns in each place. The only thing missing was some real restaurants. I did add More Than A Princess to my mental TBR, there is also a middle-grade fantasy series with that title. I won't be reading them but the next time someone asks me I'll have them ready.

Recommend to others: Yes! I love how this series has blossomed.

Six Gems
1. Her Best Friend's Brother (2022)
2. Her Secret Billionaire (2023)
3. Her One Night Consequence (2023)
4. Frenemy Fix-Up (2024)
5. Going Toe to Toe (2024)
6. Break Point (2025)

[Becky · Rating 2 out of 5]

Seriously, Devon is a total ass who finally pulls an I-love-you-of-course-we-can-be-together-for-real out of that ass at the literal last minute here. A magic conversation with his sister ("Oh, right! You've been happily married for ten years! I guess maybe it was just one crappy relationship after all and maybe I *could* give my relationship with Lyric an actual chance after all instead of banging her senseless then pushing her away when she indicates she might want more! I'll go tell her at her studio's spring recital, because this the perfect time! She's not going to be busy at all!) is all it takes, apparently.

Thank God there's only one more Gem left. Dare I hope she can find a guy who's not a jerk to her for 286 pages? (Except when they're having sex, of course. Everything is mind-blowingly perfect when they're having sex. But the second his penis is put away he's a dick again 🙄)

Rating: 2 stars / C-

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

[Sam · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for providing this ALC.

I went into this one excited. The premise hooked me immediately: a successful Black ballerina, a single dad, vacation romance vibes, and a chance to watch two adults connect. There were several elements here that should have been right up my alley. The author also tackles some genuinely interesting topics including adoption, race, belonging, body image, career loss, and rebuilding your identity after life changes unexpectedly.

Unfortunately, this ended up being a DNF for me at 16%.

My biggest struggle was that the book often felt more focused on explaining the character’s experiences than allowing me to naturally experience them alongside her. Lyric’s background is fascinating—a Black ballerina adopted by white parents who loses the career she built her entire life around. That’s a character with so much depth and potential. However, instead of seeing those experiences unfold through the story, I often felt like I was being given large pieces of backstory and explanation in quick succession.

The other challenge was Lyric’s internal dialogue. A significant amount of page time is spent discussing her appearance, body image, attractiveness, femininity, and sexual inexperience. Those are all valid topics for a character to wrestle with, but the repetition eventually became distracting for me. The story frequently tells us that Lyric is learning to embrace herself and her body, while her internal thoughts consistently suggest she’s still measuring her worth through the opinions of others. That disconnect made it difficult for me to connect with her growth.

What ultimately didn’t work for me was the way many of the deeper themes seemed to circle back to romantic validation. I kept wanting to see Lyric discover confidence, identity, and self-worth from within, particularly given the rich foundation of her character. Instead, I often felt like the romance was being positioned as the answer to struggles that deserved more personal exploration.

That said, I can absolutely see this working for other readers. If you enjoy vacation romances, single-dad romances, fast-moving attraction, and stories that lean heavily into emotional and physical validation through the romantic relationship, this may be a much better fit for you than it was for me.

Who Should Read/Listen?

* Readers who enjoy single dad romances
* Fans of vacation romance and instant attraction
* Readers looking for a romance-forward story with body image and identity themes
* Harlequin romance readers who enjoy character introspection

[Turtleberry Turtleberry · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book five in the Six Gems series and I have enjoyed every single book so far.

Lyric and Devon first saw each other on the plane to Aruba and there was an instant attraction. Then a mix up at the resort leaves them sharing a villa. Rather then fight their attraction, they throw caution to the wind and decide to have a week long affair. It was supposed to end when they got back to Memphis but bothe are reluctant to make that happen. However neither one speaks up and they part ways. Then it ends up that his daughter is taking ballet at Lyric’s studio.

I really enjoyed this book. I was as frustrated with Devon as Lyric was. There were moments when I wanted to reach inside the book and shake him. When I got to the end I kept pressing the next page button hoping there was more.

[Harlequin Books]

Sports Romance, Contemporary Romance, African American & Black Romance, Family Life Fiction
Miniseries
Six Gems (Book #5)

[Lacy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Former ballerina Lyric Taylor and single dad Devon Masters have a seven-day no-strings fling in Aruba in Yahrah St. John’s Going Toe to Toe, never expecting to see each other again. However, when he realizes Lyric is his daughter Kiana’s new dance teacher, they get a second chance to pursue their intense chemistry, connection, and passion, but it must remain secret. Can they balance their passion and a deeper connection and love to find the belonging they have longed for with each other?

Yahrah drew me in with her down-to-earth writing style, vivid and detailed description using the characters’ senses, and superb world-building to make you feel you are there with them each moment. Her colorful and natural-sounding dialogue fits her characters and story. She develops her complex, fallible, messy, and likable characters with sweet, steamy, funny, sexy, intimate, spark-filled, and emotional interactions and love scenes that reveal their characters and further the plot.

Lyric’s career-ending injury ruined her hopes and dreams, so she’s embarking on a life-changing fresh start as a ballet teacher, opening a dance studio. She’s always only wanted to belong. Devon makes Lyric feel safe, helps her to work through her issues, and to feel comfortable exploring/expressing her sexuality. Devon was hiding from living his life in the past, and she brought him back to life. However, he doesn’t allow her or their relationship to help him heal. Devon lets his fears control his actions and still holds on to his past. Lyric stands up for what she wants and is honest with Devon about it. She deserves to have those things she needs/wants too, and if that’s commitment and marriage, then so be it.

After finishing the Frenemy Fix-Up (Gems #4), which I love, I couldn’t wait to start Going Toe to Toe. While it’s a sexy, steamy read, I didn’t enjoy it as much as I expected to because the hero Devon is so frustrating and infuriating. He borders on unlikable, sometimes. He could have benefited from intensive grief therapy and counseling to unpack his issues about his relationship with his wife and their marriage because it deeply affected him. The sad thing is that he knew it. His sister—who I liked because she kept it real with him, called him on his BS, and did not let him get away with anything—tried to counsel him about it, but he just refused to listen. He took those issues and his anger and pain out on the most important women in his life, unfortunately, his daughter and Lyric. He needs to get therapy and grow up. Why does everything need to be about him?

I’m not excluding Lyric from letting the past hold you back. Lyric has issues of her own she couldn’t deal with—her biological parents and issues surrounding her being a Black girl adopted by white parents. She’s so hung up on chasing a relationship with her birth mother that she pursues it without thinking about what she had or the pain that she might experience. Lyric had trouble letting go of past hurts associated with her adoption, being raised by white parents, its effect on her adulthood, and race issues related to being a Black ballerina. It’s totally understandable and a lot to deal with and unpack. The good thing is that her parents helped her to pursue therapy from a young age to address those issues. So, the novel has positive therapy/mental health representation.

I love the interactions between the characters. The scenes with Devon and Lyric in Aruba talking to each other and learning about one another, sharing their dreams, and life experiences are entertaining. Lyric’s scenes with his daughter are sweet and their connection is genuine. These are more reasons suggesting that his inability to distinguish her from his ex and at least attempt to let his disillusionment with dancers and dancing go made little sense. St. John also explores the Gems’ relationship and how supportive, encouraging, and loving they are of each other and helpful with Lyric’s evolution and relationship with Devon and his daughter.

St. John switches things up by having the husband/father be the one who wants to have children and be the parent who is more invested/attached to the daughter. However, the comparisons of whether he should be able to parent his daughter if black women can, may not work for all readers. She explores racial issues concerning microaggressions, growing up as a Black girl adopted by white parents, and racism and colorism in the ballet industry. Fundamentally, St. John shows that family is not just about genetics—it’s about who you choose to allow to share your life with.

Sweet, steamy, emotional, sexy, and fast-paced, Going Toe to Toe is a perfect read for fans of one-night stands to more, vacation flings, Black love, and single-parent romances. It explores second chances, new starts, taking chances, living new dreams, forgiveness, belonging, letting the past go, and racism and colorism in the ballet industry.

Afterglow Books by HARLEQUIN - Romance Carina Press Forever provided an advanced review copy via Netgalley for review.

3.5 stars

[Shebereadinthembooks · Rating 3 out of 5]

Needed a quick read. It was cool

[Sapphyre Haynes · Rating 3 out of 5]

Going Toe to Toe was a quick and light read with quite a bit of spice. The spice kicks in quite quickly which did surprise me.
I liked Lyric and her progression with herself. I'm glad she realised she deserved better.
Devon annoyed me. He was so hung up on his past he couldn't see what was right in front of him. I'm not a fan of the way he treated Lyric just because of his past experience.

[Kaila · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted to love this book - the cover seemed promising, and the blurb was right up my alley. Unfortunately, when I opened the book, I was taken by shock. It was nothing I anticipated.
I have nothing against insta-romance, however, this was a little much. The book begins with Lyric & Devon accidentally being booked in the same villa. They decide to stay and start smashing immediately. We're talking less than 10 pages in. I thought it odd to begin a romance that quickly. There was no character build-up, no romantic build-up, just "Hello. Same room? Let's smash."

Things got a little more awkward around the end of their 7-day stay, when Lyric got emotional and started crying because she convinced herself she saw a future with Devon, although she barely knows the basics when it comes to him. They've agreed to a fling so they haven't shared anything personal about themselves, just their age, occupation, and relationship status, and now Lyric is pretty much heartbroken.

Devon was a very difficult character to like. I honestly didn't like him at all. At first, he is presented to still be distraught and  grieving his wife's death, but when we later touch on the situation with his wife, it's "My wife died in a tragic car accident. And not to speak ill of the dead, but she was a b*tch and a terrible person." That, along with several other moments (like when he walked past Lyric on the plane and had a random "I don't need anyone!" outburst, or how he didn't want his young daughter to dance) made it so hard to accept his character. He was a walking red flag and needed therapy, badly.

The story overall, just like the relationship, felt very rushed. I don't mind a short, quick read, however, this didn't feel like it could have been executed better. Unfortunately, this was not one for me.

Thank you NetGalley, Harlequin-Romance, and Yahrah St. John for this ARC.

[Caidyn Kruse · Rating 4 out of 5]

OMG😍 This book was EVERYTHING I didn’t expect. It was spicyyyyy from the very beginning and the more it went on the more I fell in love with the characters. It was short, but definitely what I needed for a quick read.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Audiobook Review — Going Toe to Toe by Yahrah St. John
Narrated by Victor Quixabas & LaDonna Raeh
Harlequin Romance × Macmillan Audio × NetGalley ALC
Audio Pub Date: July 7, 2026
Originally Published: August 2024

🎧 Narration — the highlight of the experience
I really enjoyed this audio. Victor Quixabas is new to me, but after this? I’ll absolutely be looking for more of his work. His voice has that steady, grown‑man warmth that fits Devon perfectly a man who’s been divorced, lost his ex‑wife, and is now raising his daughter on his own.

And listen… Victor’s voice? Sheesh. Yes please. 🙏🏾
He gave Devon all the feels. There were moments where he’d soften his tone and I literally sat up like, “Oh. We’re doing this? Right now?” 🤣

LaDonna Raeh brings Lyric to life with poise, vulnerability, and that ballerina‑sharp emotional control. Together, they balance each other beautifully. The audio even opens with music, which made the whole experience feel fun and engaging.

✈️🏝️ Plot — cute, low‑stakes, and very easy to read
Devon and Lyric actually meet on the plane headed to Aruba a spark, a glance, a little hum of attraction they both pretend they didn’t feel. They go their separate ways… until Lyric arrives at her villa and finds out it’s been double‑booked.

And the man she’s stuck sharing space with?
The same man from the plane.

✔️Everything else is sold out.
✔️The chemistry is immediate.
✔️And the tension? Low‑key delicious.

They agree that what happens in Aruba stays in Aruba a one‑night‑stand, friends‑to‑lovers situation they both swear they’ll leave behind. But once they’re back in the States, Devon discovers Lyric is his daughter’s new dance teacher… and avoiding each other is no longer an option.

🩰 Lyric’s identity arc — colorism, belonging, and finding her place
One of the strongest parts of this book is Lyric’s honesty about colorism and identity. She’s a lighter‑skinned Black woman adopted and raised by white parents, and she talks about how they loved her but missed entire cultural cues she needed to feel grounded and understood.

Then, when she was around other Black folks, she still didn’t fit judged for being lighter‑skinned, for “talking white,” for not having the “right” kind of Blackness.

That hit me.
Even though I grew up with Black parents, I grew up around a lot of white people, and I got the same rhetoric from family about “proper diction.” Lyric’s struggle to find her place felt real and layered.

💗 Body image in ballet and led with care
I also loved how Yahrah St. John tackled body shaming in the ballet world something we rarely see addressed in romance, especially with a Black heroine. Lyric talks about being body‑shamed for being small, which is a perspective people don’t always think about.

And what impressed me is how Yahrah wove these issues — colorism, belonging, body image — into a low‑tension, low‑stakes romance without making them overwhelming or turning them into trauma plot devices. It’s thoughtful, intentional, and honestly just smart writing.

There’s visibility here without heaviness, and I appreciated that so much.

👨‍👧 Devon — divorced, widowed, single dad
Devon’s backstory adds emotional depth without making the book heavy. His ex‑wife left their marriage to pursue her dance career, and after her passing, he’s been carrying resentment, fear, and protectiveness, especially when he realizes Lyric is now part of his daughter’s world.

It creates tension, but the story stays sweet, low‑stakes, and easy to sink into.

💎 Series Notes
This is book six in the GEMS series, and it works perfectly as an interconnected standalone. You don’t have to read the first five to enjoy this one, but it’s fun seeing familiar characters and friendships pop in.

I also think the audio release is going to introduce a whole new group of readers to this series — and honestly, it deserves that.

💭 Final Thoughts
This was cute, engaging, low‑tension, and very easy to read (or listen to). The Aruba setup is fun, the chemistry is warm, and the emotional beats land without ever feeling heavy.

Yahrah St. John handled some real issues with care while still giving us a breezy romance, and I loved that balance.

Thank you to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio, and Harlequin Romance for the advanced listening copy.

[Beyond the Pages with Eva K · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick Summary: A free-to-be romance

My Review: Going Toe to Toe by Yahrah St. John is book #5 in the Six Gems series. The novel was originally released in 2024. Harlequin Audio is scheduled to release an audio edition on 7/7/26.

About the Book: "After their no-strings fling in paradise, Lyric and Devon never thought they’d see each other again. Until they did. Now they have very different ideas about what the future holds…

Sometimes you just have to take the leap…"

In My Own Words: A woman who is searching for answers has a vacation fling with a man who is trying to liberate himself from his past. Little did either know that they would cross paths again so soon.

About the Characters: The leads in this story were interesting characters. They both had scars from their lived experiences. I liked getting to know them. Though their story began on the edge of mutual attraction and a secret romp of sorts, it ended at the place of forgiveness and forever.

Lyric - > Had to learn how to survive, loved and supported by her forever family, appreciated the gift of connection, nurturing

Devon - > Had difficulty trusting, lived in the bruise of a past hurt, loving father, skewed sense of direction regarding relationship

Kianna - > Sweet, observant, talented, tender heart

The supporting characters were incredible. I particularly loved the girlfriend dynamic. I also LOVED how supportive Lyric's parents were.

About the Conflict: This area was done really well. There was not just one conflict in the story, there were a number, actually. When the dust settled, however, it came down to relationships.

- The trust aspect involved in relationships
- The transparency associated with relationships
- The emotional and mental weight carried in the relationships
- The raw vulnerability that comes or should come via connection in relationships

My Favorite Scenes (coded, so as to avoid spoilers):

👨‍👧😢 - Daddy-Daughter Tears
👩‍👦💙 - Mommy Blues
👋💖 - Goodbye. Hello
🏡❤️ - That's What Family Is

What I Struggled With:

- Repetition (There were several places where the repetition became distracting. It was done in approximately 3 places and proved to be notable.)
- Crude expression (One specific descriptor was wide open and did not land well, in my opinion. It was too much and did not seem to go along with the rest of the content. It was a bit off-putting.)

About the Audiobook: Going Toe to Toe was narrated by Victor Quixabas and LaDonna Raeh. This duo performed well together. Their rhythm and flow were delivered in such a way that kept me engaged.

My Final Say: This was a pretty solid read. It started out with a "tall, hot, and sexy" vibe and morphed into a story of healing and liberation. It did a good job of driving the main characters to evident growth, and it showed that both partners were willing to embrace openness to new possibilities. I really liked how it defined family in a non-traditional way. I was surprised by certain dyads that were revealed. With that said, I liked their realness that came with the unpredictability of those dyads.

I do want to convey how much the relationship between Lyric and Kianna stood out. It was beautiful to see how Lyric showed up for her after what that little girl had to face. Kianna's comments about her mom broke my heart.

Other: I think readers who enjoy lighthearted romances with an emotional focus will like this novel. It offers a realistic view of parenthood, life after loss, and dating while single with a +1.

Rating: 3.5/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Status: ⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Level: 🌶️🌶️
Format: 🎧
Series: Yes
Cover: +

Thank you to the author, to the publisher (Harlequin Audio), and to NetGalley. I appreciate the opportunity to review this work of fiction. I enjoyed the listening experience very much.

[Living My Best Book Life · Rating 5 out of 5]

A ballerina and a single dad are looking for peace and relaxation at a fancy resort in Aruba and get more than they bargained for. After a booking error, Lyric and Devon are forced to share a villa, and magnetizing chemistry makes it impossible to keep their hands off each other. A seven-day fling with no strings attached is their perfect arrangement. Going Toe to Toe is a passionate and charming romance about giving love a chance, believing in yourself, and moving past your fears.

Lyric has always danced and is in desperate need of a vacation when her career as a ballerina is cut short. Her friend group, aka the Gems, gift her a luxurious trip to Aruba. This is the perfect vacation to have before she embarks on her new path as a dance studio owner/instructor. When she steps on the plane, she notices an attractive man and it turns out they are staying at the same resort. Actually, they are technically booked for the same room. The hotel manager asks one of them to give up their room in exchange for a complimentary stay, but the attractive man from the plane, Devon, comes up with a brilliant plan; they can share the villa. While Lyric is hesitant, she agrees. It is apparent that they both find each other attractive, but Lyric isn't the type of girl to just sleep around. But she even surprises herself when she gives in and kisses Devon. They agree to a seven-day fling with no strings attached. Yahrah St. John sure knows how to give readers spicy scenes that you want to devour. Every scene is passionate and sexy and I just know feelings are starting to come to the surface. But it's time to say goodbye and neither wants to admit how much they care for each other.

Lyric is still thinking about Devon and tells herself to move on, but is totally thrown for a loop when she sees him...in her dance studio. His daughter is enrolled in her class and it brings up all their sexual tension. Devon and Lyric have to set ground rules and agree to keep things casual. What's so magical about their romance is how vulnerable they are together. They each have their insecurities and when they are together it seems like their fears begin to float away. Lyric hasn't always been the most confident about her body image and Devon continues to show his admiration and tell her how beautiful she is. Devon has been burned in the past and is super hesitant to have a meaningful relationship, but every time Lyric shows up for him and his daughter she is able to tear his walls down one piece at a time. I love that they had to work for their relationship. Yes, the chemistry and passion are there, but they aren't afraid to speak their feelings and work through the nitty gritty.

Going Toe to Toe is a sexy, romantic, and moving read that can easily be finished in one sitting. Devon and Lyric's romance is charming and enticing, the writing easily felt like it was meant to be and fell into place. Even though the characters fall quickly it never felt rushed and every interaction was intentional to help these characters grow with one another. Yahrah St. John's novel is on pointe! I already want to read the rest of the book in the series.

[L Powers (Bookish_Mum) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Going Toe to Toe by Yahrah St. John
Rating: 4/5
Release Date: 1 August 2024

Lyric Taylor, a former ballerina at a crossroads in her life, escapes to Aruba to find solace amidst the uncertainties of her career and the search for her birth parents. A mix-up in accommodations leads her to embark on a passionate fling with Devon, a charming man sharing her vacation space. Their time together is filled with sun-soaked days and undeniable chemistry, both knowing it's a temporary escape from reality.

Devon Masters, a devoted single father shielding his daughter Kianna from life's challenges, is stunned to discover Lyric is Kianna's new dance teacher upon returning home. What started as a carefree affair in Aruba now complicates their lives as they navigate secrets and the deepening of their emotions.

As they confront their personal histories and wrestle with newfound feelings, Lyric and Devon must redefine their paths forward and what home truly means to them.

When it comes to Mills & Boon, I always anticipate a delightful romance read, and once again, this book delivered exactly that. It evoked all the swoon-worthy emotions as I immersed myself in this heartwarming story, leaving me with a smile on my face and a warm feeling in my heart.

The narrative flowed effortlessly, making it an easy and enjoyable read from start to finish. The author has a talent for creating a seamless storyline that draws you in and keeps you engaged throughout. The pacing was perfect, allowing the plot to develop naturally without feeling rushed or dragged out.

The characters were wonderfully crafted, each adding depth and charm to the story. Lyric and Devon were both relatable and endearing, with well-defined personalities and backstories that made their actions and motivations believable. Their chemistry was palpable, and I found myself rooting for them from the very beginning.

The romance sparked and sizzled right from the start, creating an immediate connection between the characters that only grew stronger as the story progressed. The intimate moments were beautifully written, balancing passion and tenderness in a way that felt authentic and deeply moving. The author skilfully captured the excitement and vulnerability of falling in love, making their journey both captivating and emotionally satisfying.

Overall, this book was a perfect example of what makes Mills & Boon romances so beloved. It delivered a charming and heartfelt story with memorable characters and a romance that left a lasting impression. If you're looking for a feel-good read that will sweep you off your feet, this is definitely the book for you.

Thank you so much to NetGalley, Mills & Boon | Afterglow Books, and the author, Yahrah St. John, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.

[The Bookish Narwhal · Rating 5 out of 5]

In “Going Toe to Toe” by Yahrah St. John, readers experience a masterfully woven tale of love, redemption, and the magic of dance. Set against the backdrop of Aruba's sun-kissed beaches, this romance novel delivers a heartwarming story that will leave readers swooning. This book is a dance of passion and second chances!

Meet Lyric Taylor. She’s a former ballerina who finds herself at a crossroads after her ballet career comes to an abrupt end. Desperate for distraction, she embarks on a spontaneous fling with Devon, her sexy bunkmate during a tropical getaway. Their seven days of sun, sand, and sizzle ignite a passion neither expected. But when reality beckons, they part ways, believing their connection was nothing more than a fleeting affair.

Fast forward to Lyric's return home, where life takes an unexpected turn. Devon, a single dad, discovers that Lyric is his daughter Kianna's new dance teacher. The chemistry they shared in Aruba resurfaces, and old wounds reopen. As they navigate their feelings, secrets, and the challenges of blending their lives, they must decide whether to take a leap of faith or retreat to the safety of their pasts.

St. John crafts multidimensional characters who leap off the page. Lyric's vulnerability and determination resonate, while Devon's protective instincts and inner struggles tug at the heartstrings. Kianna, their precocious daughter, adds a delightful layer to the story. The sparks between Lyric and Devon are palpable. Their banter, stolen glances, and shared passion create an electric atmosphere. St. John knows how to build anticipation, leaving readers eagerly turning pages.

The dance sequences are beautifully described, capturing the grace, discipline, and sensuality of movement. Whether it's a tango or a waltz, the choreography mirrors the characters' emotional journey. St. John delves into themes of forgiveness, healing, and second chances. Readers will root for Lyric and Devon as they confront their pasts and learn to trust again.

“Going Toe to Toe” is a delightful romance that will make your heart pirouette. St. John's lyrical prose, vivid settings, and authentic emotions make this a must-read. Whether you're a dance enthusiast or simply a lover of love, this book will leave you smiling long after the final page.

Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Romance, and Afterglow Books by Harlequin for a temporary e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley and am voluntarily posting a review. All opinions are my own.
Yahrah St. John delivers another winner with Going Toe to Toe. It’s book 5 in her Six Gems series, and the second to be released with the Afterglow line, but it can be read as a standalone. This one really surprised me, because while I’ve definitely read other category-length books that had such profound emotional character depth, I didn’t quite expect it from this book in particular. Add in some well-done trope subversion, and it made for a really great read.
Lyric is a former professional ballet dancer who now teaches children ballet. But I was particularly drawn to her backstory, as she was adopted in a transracial adoption, and has never met her birth parents, although her birth mother gave permission for Lyric to contact her when she was 18. I appreciate the compassion given to Lyric’s journey, from having the support of her foster parents, to taking the time to navigate first contacting her birth mother, then finding her birth father.
Devon is equally sympathetic, as he’s navigating being a single father to a daughter, Kianna. In addition to the typical challenges that brings, along with the baggage from his relationship with his ex, souring him on getting into another relationship. While men with commitment issues irk me (and he had his moments that frustrated me), his issues came from an understandable place.
I really enjoyed the romance, which surprised me a little, as romances where they first connect due to their lust for each other usually turn me off. But I think there was something about them bonding, physically and a little emotionally, when there were no stakes in Aruba, and then having to adjust and address things between them when they found out Kianna is in Lyric’s dance class that really appealed to me. While there were some moments where I was frustrated with them, especially Devon, their conflicts felt realistic, but kept me invested in them as a couple.
This was an enjoyable read, and I’d recommend it to readers interested in a category-length contemporary romance with Black leads.

[Kat · Rating 3 out of 5]

‘Going Toe To Toe’ by Yarah St. John is an instant-attraction, strangers-to-lovers vacation romance with some extra depth added when the lead characters - ex-ballerina Lyric and techy single dad Devon - return to their normal lives. Themes of love, loss, trust and strong female friendships shine from this novel.

Beginning in Aruba where proximity is forced upon the main characters after a hotel booking error leads to them sharing a gorgeous ocean facing villa, the first half of the novel charts a fast burning chemistry, with plenty of spice that rivals the plot for importance. The second half - which I preferred as it explored the characters a lot more - follows the lovers home where miscommunication and pride lead to avoidance, until the passion becomes too high to ignore.

I really liked Lyric’s determination to make the best of her situation and open a dance studio after an injury ended her professional dance career and appreciated the challenges she faced as an adoptee and a Black dancer in a white-dominated sphere. I also adored her group of girlfriends (known as the gems) for their steadfastness, diversity and kindness. This was the fifth book in a series but I felt like I got to know her friends well enough to care about them without reading their own stories - so this definitely works as a standalone!

Giving this three stars for a fun summer read but a bit too insta-love for my liking with limited character development in the first half which almost made me give up on reading. I’m glad I persevered though and I’m actually quite intrigued to read the next (and final) instalment of the “gems” series which is tennis related!

I received an advance Digital Review Copy of this book from the publisher Afterglow Books via NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

[abbiealwaysreads · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had such mixed feelings about this book. Some things worked so well for me, the majority even, with one that really didn’t.

Some of my favorites in this story:

•Lyrics Adoption Story- As an adoptive mom, I was thrilled to read a story with adoptive parents who were fully supportive of their child being in relationship with their biological parents. I was teary listening to Lyric describe her desire to know where the face looking at her in the mirror came from. I thought this was handled thoughtfully, and with great consideration of the nuance that is family in adoption.

•The Hotel Mishap- This was a fabulous meet cute and it worked so well for these two. Especially with their story being instantly spicy, both being on a solo vacation in need of unwinding worked well.

•Lyric’s Identity and Reflection- I thought this story handled Lyric’s identity as a black adoptee in largely white spaces and body image as a ballerina beautifully. In both aspects of her life, she searched for belonging in a way that was so thoughtful.

What didn’t work for me:
•Devon’s emotional instability- It was clear to me throughout this story that Devon needed therapy and had a lot of growth to make. He instantly jumped to the worst conclusion every time anything was mildly unexpected. I can accept that people over react occasionally but this felt pretty constant. I found myself hoping Lyric found better by the end of the story, which was unfortunate.

Overall, this is a read that had great overall themes and moments, if you can move past the emotionally immature male lead.

[shereads_forreal · Rating 5 out of 5]

“What Happens in Aruba Stays In Aruba” was the plan but Devon had other intentions with Lyric. Lyric doesn’t usually do hookups and flings, but she is also lacking in experience..Lyric was on vacation mode in hopes to find herself, prepare for her dance studio grand opening and actually being a ballet teacher and not a ballet dancer for a company. From seeing Mr. Handsome on the plane and then having to share a space because of a mixup with the villa, Lyric thought to herself... maybe this is a sign and they were meant to be in this moment. After the interactions with Devon, Lyric felt more confident within herself and was ready to meet her birth mom. “I met my birth mother and she doesn’t want me now any more than she wanted me back then. That’s a bitter pill to swallow.” This was something that she needed to move forward, she was able to learn about the way that she was conceived and although she had other hopes for the relationship with her mom she was able to finally close that chapter for the better. Lyric’s goal was to learn about where she is from because “I’ve never really owned my femininity any more than I’ve owned being a Black woman.” Adopted at the age of 5 years old by two Caucausian who didn’t help her accept her ethnicity although they made it clear that they were different, but they didn’t help Lyric to embrace that she is a black woman. But shout out to Jeremy for wanting to build a relationship with Lyric but not wanting to step on the toes of her adoptive parents.

[Addy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Netgalley this is the second novel by Yahrah St. John that I have had an opportunity to review. Going Toe to Toe continues the story of the Six Gems, this time focusing on Lyric. Lyric is a former professional ballerina transitioning into a new place in life as a business owner and dance instructor. To celebrate these big changes her friends send her on a trip to Aruba before she hits the ground running with her new business. While on this trip a clerical error creates a situation that requires she share her vacation villa with Devon, a single father in serious need of a break. The two have a vacation fling that they vow ends the moment they leave the island. However, life has a way of surprising you. Due to some interference from his younger sister Devon’s daughter Kianna is one of Lyrics new young students. Much as they try to void each other the pull is too strong.

While trying to navigate their situationship Lyric is working on putting together her personal history. As the product of a transracial adoption Lyric has had a hard journey understanding how to navigate black spaces, constantly being told she isn’t black enough by her black peers on one hand while being told that she was too black by her mostly white dancing contemporaries. To better understand herself she is on the hunt for a connection with her biological parents to understand the whys of her past.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

If straight men went to therapy, this book would not exist.

I really enjoy the Harlequin Afterglow books. I know I will have a good time when I pick one up and this was no exception.

After a hotel reservation mixup, Lyric and Devon have a magical week on vacation in Aruba. But when they return home to Memphis, Devon's hurt from his previous marriage keeps him from trusting Lyric. She is his daughter's ballet teacher and sees real promise in the little girl but Devon is decidedly against both his daughter's continued study of dance or becoming involved with another dancer himself. But he can't stay away from Lyric.

I thought Lyric's character development was so well done. This is a short book– under 300 pages– and I was so impressed by how Yarah St. John tackled everything Lyric has going on in her life on top of the romance story. Lyric felt like a real person and was someone I would want to know better.

The spice in this book is impeccable.

I was deeply irritated by Devon at many points in this book because if he did an ounce of work on himself after losing his ex-wife, this would have been a spicy beach novella that ended with two people in a stable relationship. The man NEEDS therapy.

Despite my challenges with Devon, Lyric's story is enough to carry this whole book. 4 stars.

[YanaKeii · Rating 3 out of 5]

Early ALC review...

I like this series so getting the audio was a bonus for me. This story was on the underwhelming side and confusing.

While I understood that they both needed to find themselves, wanting love and belonging. Devon was truly confusing throughout the whole book. I only took from him that he did not want Lyric but wanted her available to him. The way his ex wife was mentioned in al, most every chapter of his and she was a horrible person I didn't understand the purpose to an extent.

Lyric, loved her overall but for me she came off weak and accepting of any treatment from Devon. She did not need to prove to him that she was worthy of love.

So the story itself is not my favorite out of the bunch after left Aruba and the airport scene I was very curious as to why Devon was so upset and rude to her not only this scene but in so many others.

Listening to the male narrator chosen for this story was a hard listen. I will say that matching the race of your characters are important while LaDonna was on point. Victor missed the mark for the black characters with his tone and mannerisms on some of the dialogue for sure. I dont think he is a bad narrator but once I looked into his catalogue, my reservations was on point. If this was a interracial romance then he would have been perfect.

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overall, I enjoyed Going Toe to Toe by Yahrah St. John. It had an interesting storyline, with both Devon and Lyric rediscovering themselves and love after devastating losses.

The trope is forced proximity, which I usually love, but it happened way too fast for my preference.

I enjoyed the aftermath of Aruba much more because the story slowed down and gave me space to learn more about each character. However, I wish we’d gotten more dialogue between Devon and Lyric so I could better understand them as a couple outside of their physical attraction.

I really liked the conversations each character had with their family and friends. Lyric with her parents and the Gems, and Devon with his sister. Those moments added some emotional depth that was missing for me in the romance.

The writing occasionally felt older than the characters themselves, and repetitive phrases emphasizing gender, such as “his male scent” or “her female gaze,” felt overly wordy. That kind of phrasing always sounds awkward in audiobook narration.

This book is definitely spicy. More than I expected, which was not a problem for me, but it is worth noting. However, I would have traded a few of the intimate scenes for more banter and relationship building, especially early on.

Thank you, NetGalley and Harlequin Audio, for the advanced listener copy.

[A Rush Of Emotions · Rating 5 out of 5]

Watch me go read the rest of the books in this series! I'm so glad I took a chance on a random book on Netgalley because I loved this single dad romance so much!

Devon and Lyric meet while they're both on vacation. The hotel has a mixup and oops! there's only one bed. What else are you to do on vacation but enjoy as many things as possible? They have a fun time together, there's a lot of instalust which I'm here for! When the vacation ends, they reluctantly end as well.

I loved the "back to reality" time these two had. As a single dad his life is pretty much the same song and dance every day, until his daughter starts dance lessons at Lyrics studio. Their fun vacation hookup turns into a "let's keep it a secret" situationship.

Devon had A LOT of hold ups due to his relationship with his ex that caused some well placed drama in this story. Lyric also had some good story going on when she tries to track down her birth parents (she's adopted). Through it all I loved this story so much! It gave me all the feels and I just know the first books will be just as good, so I'm planning on reading them soon!

If you love single dad romances, reluctant/hesitant love, but ALL the feels, pick up this book!

[Kharisma Freeman · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you are looking for a quick, fun romance that perfectly hits the spot, Going Toe to Toe by Yahrah St. John is a delightful escape.

The story kicks off with a fantastic dynamic, transporting readers from a vibrant, escapist island setting right back to the everyday realities of home, proving that some connections simply can't be left behind on vacation. The absolute highlight of this book is the palpable friction between Devon and Lyric. Their banter, tension, and undeniable chemistry keep the pages turning effortlessly from start to finish.

While it is undeniably a cute romance, St. John ensures it isn't lacking in emotional depth. Facing your fears is no joke, and this story beautifully captures the raw vulnerability of navigating an overwhelming shared history—especially when it involves the distinct ache of wanting someone who seemingly doesn't want you back.

It is a fantastic, fast-paced read that expertly balances lighthearted, romantic moments with authentic emotional stakes. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a captivating, feel-good romance to dive into!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Cheryl Jamai · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ballerina Lyric Taylor of the “Six Gems” friend group, goes on a fun getaway in advance of opening her dance studio. Single Dad Devon Masters is hoping to decompress and relax in Aruba. Unfortunately, due to a mix up, the resort has placed Lyric and Devon in the same room.

The pair find themselves in a luxury suite with a beautiful Caribbean backdrop. Mix that with two attractive people with chemistry leads to unbridled passion without thinking about tomorrow. They are drawn to each other and escape from their respective issues back home. They agree that what happens in Aruba, stays in Aruba. Unfortunately, the pair have a shared interest in Devon’s daughter, who loves to dance. Ms. St. Johns explores how the pair navigate their feelings, despite the wall they’ve put up. There is plenty of spice in “Going to Toe”. It’s always good to get updates on the other “Gems”. They remain supportive and are great friends. Overall, this is an enjoyable read and I recommend it. I rate this book at 3.5