This was the warmest, most genuine, and honestly one of the most encouraging books I’ve read this month. 🥹💕 It was also my first time reading Ciana Smoak, and I truly couldn’t have asked for a better introduction to her work. If you’re someone who has ever struggled with accepting love without hesitation, learning to trust again, or allowing yourself to be vulnerable after heartbreak or difficult situations, I genuinely think this is a book you should pick up. The Fmc of the story Kayla, is a driven and successful boutique owner who has convinced herself that love simply isn’t an option for her. I instantly fell in love with her. She’s gorgeous, ambitious, a go-getter, and a amazing friend. One of my absolute favorite things about this book was the girlhood and friendship. Y’all KNOW inseparable girl friendships will have me seated every single time. 😂💕 Kayla and her girls had the kind of friendship I love seeing in books the support, loyalty, encouragement, and genuine love they have for one another. The friend group and family aspect felt just as important to me as the romance, and I loved seeing Kayla surrounded by people who truly supported her. I also really appreciated the representation of Black success, Black friendship, Black love, and community. There’s something so beautiful about reading about Black women thriving, pursuing their goals, building businesses, loving their friends, and being surrounded by people who celebrate them. I absolutely ate that up. And then we have Tony. 🥹 He was such a charming gentleman, and I loved the way he showed up for Kayla. Their romance started with those shy little moments of flirting, but even then, I could already feel their chemistry. It wasn't forced it was just there, and that's the way it's supposed to be. I especially enjoyed the slow burn between them because watching their relationship gradually develop made it so much more satisfying But beyond the romance, what really stayed with me was the emotional message behind Kayla’s journey. This book had me thinking about how many women carry the effects of past heartbreak, trauma, or difficult situations into their current relationships. Sometimes the things we've experienced teach us to protect ourselves so well that we don't realize we're also making it harder to receive something good. Kayla’s story reminded me that learning to trust again is a process, and that your past doesn't have to dictate your future. The pacing was wonderful, and I honestly have nothing I didn't like about this book. I enjoyed the romance, the friendships, the family dynamic, Kayla, Tony, the emotional growth, the representation, and the overall warmth of the story. Please read this book. 🥹💕 If you love Black love, successful women, strong female friendships, family, slow-burn romance, and stories about learning to open your heart again, Single Space needs to be on your TBR!
The premise was cute with Kayla being in competition with a neighboring business owner to try to get the empty space that was available to expand their businesses. I liked how her friends and family rallied behind her to support her with her endeavors of expansion and helped her see her dream was not attainable at times where she wanted to throw in the towel.
When it came to the romance aspect of the book I was a little conflicted. This was a slow burn which I don't mind; however, the build up of the story between Kayla and Tony seemed to drag at points. There was another character that was brought into the mix who I felt served no purpose and added to the slowness of the build up between Kayla and Tony. Also, when it was clear who Tony was and how he would treat her if they were together, she was harboring on some issues from a past situation and placed unfair consequences, if you will, on Tony. Once they finally made things clear with the two of them it was like all gas no breaks which made the pacing of the story feel uneven. Overall, I was happy with how everything came together in the end; however, the flow and pacing took a little away from the story for me.
3.5⭐️ Kayla, a boutique owner has convinced herself that she simply does not have time to fall for anyone. She has a business to run, goals to accomplish, and that’s that! Her business is booming, and now she needs a bigger space to keep up with the traffic. Of course, nothing can ever be that easy, and this little obstacle has Kayla spiraling, trying to figure out how to make everything work in her favor. Enters Tony, a friend and the chemistry between these two… is there! Hidden attraction and flirty behavior. When an opportunity comes along, Tony is more than ready to step up and help in anyway. Kayla, on the other hand, is hesitant because her past experiences have taught her to protect herself, at all costs. I really enjoyed Tony throughout this entire book. He was the anchor Kayla didn’t even realize she needed. I also loved how Kayla’s family and friends rallied around her when she needed them.
This was a really sweet read. Kayla, a successful business owner, is a boss baddie and doesn't have time for love. I loved the way Tony showed up for Kayla over and over. Their chemistry was undeniable. A really good slow burn with not too much spice, but it worked. My favorite thing, though, was the friendship she had with her girlfriends. We love genuine friendships. Girl Gang Unite!
If you are looking for a workplace romance with forced proximity and a slow burn, and genuine girlfriends, Single Space needs to be added to your TBR!
I love the girlhood in this book! Actually I love the family and friends dynamics in this book. Everyone is so supportive. This slow burn was a good kind of slow burn. Because Kayla knew she was just in her head too much. Really l loved the minimal spice , it was just support, love and laughter. Really Good read :)