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Keep the Ring
She’s got the perfect engagement. The perfect life. But behind the filtered photos and brand deals, her relationship is a perfect lie.
Zariah James, thick, sexy, and wildly popular travel vlogger, is one half of everybody’s favorite #relationshipgoals couple. She and Jamal’s feed is all dreamy trips, luxury getaways, and engagement pics.
But behind the scenes? He calls the shots. Jamal controls the narrative. And her.
Until she snaps.
The morning of their wedding, Zariah walks away. No dress. No vows. No more pretending. Instead of the luxury honeymoon Jamal insisted on, she books a solo trip to Maui, finally choosing herself.
Then a ridiculously fine stranger helps her out of a bind at the airport. And somewhere between delayed flights, tropical heat, and a few very questionable decisions, Zariah starts remembering what it feels like to want something simply because she wants it.
But Jamal isn’t willing to let her, their carefully crafted love story, or the ring on her finger go without a fight.
And this time, Zariah might finally be ready to decide what’s hers to keep.
Keep the Ring is a steamy Black romance novella about a runaway bride, a messy public scandal, and a vacation rebound that gets dangerously real.
Zariah James, thick, sexy, and wildly popular travel vlogger, is one half of everybody’s favorite #relationshipgoals couple. She and Jamal’s feed is all dreamy trips, luxury getaways, and engagement pics.
But behind the scenes? He calls the shots. Jamal controls the narrative. And her.
Until she snaps.
The morning of their wedding, Zariah walks away. No dress. No vows. No more pretending. Instead of the luxury honeymoon Jamal insisted on, she books a solo trip to Maui, finally choosing herself.
Then a ridiculously fine stranger helps her out of a bind at the airport. And somewhere between delayed flights, tropical heat, and a few very questionable decisions, Zariah starts remembering what it feels like to want something simply because she wants it.
But Jamal isn’t willing to let her, their carefully crafted love story, or the ring on her finger go without a fight.
And this time, Zariah might finally be ready to decide what’s hers to keep.
Keep the Ring is a steamy Black romance novella about a runaway bride, a messy public scandal, and a vacation rebound that gets dangerously real.
120 pages, ebook
Published October 6, 2026
About the author
Kimberly R. Vargas
5 books57 followersKimberly R. Vargas writes cinematic Black romance and women’s fiction about second chances, messy relationships, and women learning that love should not cost them themselves.
As an indie author, narrator, and producer, Kimberly brings her stories to life from page to audio. She writes, records, and produces her own audiobooks, creating an intimate listening experience for readers who love romance with feeling, texture, and voice.
When she’s not drafting her next book or in the editing cave, Kimberly is probably somewhere trying to hit a Mariah Carey octave or dancing in her basement like it’s 1999.
She lives in Michigan with her husband, two kids, and a very spoiled dog.
As an indie author, narrator, and producer, Kimberly brings her stories to life from page to audio. She writes, records, and produces her own audiobooks, creating an intimate listening experience for readers who love romance with feeling, texture, and voice.
When she’s not drafting her next book or in the editing cave, Kimberly is probably somewhere trying to hit a Mariah Carey octave or dancing in her basement like it’s 1999.
She lives in Michigan with her husband, two kids, and a very spoiled dog.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
November 3, 2026
This story was the embodiment of “not clinging to a mistake just because you spent a long time making it” AND “not believing everything you see on social media.”
After four years of enduring verbal and emotional abuse, Zariah finally decides to walk away from what appears to be a picture-perfect relationship. But just as she’s choosing herself, she literally runs into Darius, who quickly becomes her safe space. He shows her what it’s like to let her guard down, be herself without fear of judgment, and experience genuine kindness. Their connection developed quickly, and I really enjoyed their chemistry and playful banter.
While I understand why the story was told solely from Zariah’s perspective, I would’ve loved a little insight into Darius’s thoughts and feelings, especially during their early encounters. It wasn’t necessarily needed, but I think getting a glimpse of his perspective would’ve made me love their romance even more.
This story definitely had a little bit of everything: humor, spice, emotion, and drama. I loved the romance, but I appreciated Zariah’s personal growth just as much, especially as she learned to release the weight of other people’s expectations and perceptions. Her journey was just as meaningful as the love story.
This was my first read by this author, and I really enjoyed myself! She also did a great job narrating her own audiobook and bringing these characters to life. I could feel Zariah’s emotions throughout the story, which made the listening experience even more enjoyable.
After four years of enduring verbal and emotional abuse, Zariah finally decides to walk away from what appears to be a picture-perfect relationship. But just as she’s choosing herself, she literally runs into Darius, who quickly becomes her safe space. He shows her what it’s like to let her guard down, be herself without fear of judgment, and experience genuine kindness. Their connection developed quickly, and I really enjoyed their chemistry and playful banter.
While I understand why the story was told solely from Zariah’s perspective, I would’ve loved a little insight into Darius’s thoughts and feelings, especially during their early encounters. It wasn’t necessarily needed, but I think getting a glimpse of his perspective would’ve made me love their romance even more.
This story definitely had a little bit of everything: humor, spice, emotion, and drama. I loved the romance, but I appreciated Zariah’s personal growth just as much, especially as she learned to release the weight of other people’s expectations and perceptions. Her journey was just as meaningful as the love story.
This was my first read by this author, and I really enjoyed myself! She also did a great job narrating her own audiobook and bringing these characters to life. I could feel Zariah’s emotions throughout the story, which made the listening experience even more enjoyable.
November 2, 2026
WHEW! Zariah was out here trying to have the picture-perfect relationship, and Jamal was making sure everybody saw exactly what HE wanted them to see. From the beginning, I did not care for that man. The way he constantly needed to control their image and every little thing Zariah did had me side-eyeing him. I was so glad she finally chose herself and walked away instead of going through with a wedding that clearly wasn’t what she wanted. And when I say that woman deserved her little escape to Maui, I MEAN IT!
Now let’s get into Darius because BABY! I loved their unexpected connection. What started as a little vacation fun turned into something I was genuinely rooting for. I enjoyed their chemistry, the banter, and how they were able to enjoy each other’s company while still working through the baggage they brought into the situation. I also appreciated that Zariah’s journey wasn’t just about finding someone new. It was about finding herself again, learning to speak up, and realizing she didn’t have to keep performing for everybody else’s expectations.
And the drama? Chile, I was invested! Between the public perception of their relationship, the mess left behind, and the people who had plenty to say about Zariah’s choices, I wanted her to finally tell her side of the story. I was especially glad to see her start standing up for herself instead of carrying the blame for other people’s actions. Keep the Ring gave me romance, spice, messy relationship drama, and a reminder that everything that looks perfect online definitely isn’t perfect behind closed doors. I loved watching Zariah choose herself, and Darius was a very welcome addition to her new chapter. Kimberly R. Vargas gave us a fun, satisfying Black romance that I thoroughly enjoyed!
Now let’s get into Darius because BABY! I loved their unexpected connection. What started as a little vacation fun turned into something I was genuinely rooting for. I enjoyed their chemistry, the banter, and how they were able to enjoy each other’s company while still working through the baggage they brought into the situation. I also appreciated that Zariah’s journey wasn’t just about finding someone new. It was about finding herself again, learning to speak up, and realizing she didn’t have to keep performing for everybody else’s expectations.
And the drama? Chile, I was invested! Between the public perception of their relationship, the mess left behind, and the people who had plenty to say about Zariah’s choices, I wanted her to finally tell her side of the story. I was especially glad to see her start standing up for herself instead of carrying the blame for other people’s actions. Keep the Ring gave me romance, spice, messy relationship drama, and a reminder that everything that looks perfect online definitely isn’t perfect behind closed doors. I loved watching Zariah choose herself, and Darius was a very welcome addition to her new chapter. Kimberly R. Vargas gave us a fun, satisfying Black romance that I thoroughly enjoyed!
October 9, 2026
Give me a black woman finally walking away and choosing herself that is going to get me every single time👏🏾. To the outside social media world, Zariah has the perfect life, she is a travel vlogger, getting married to the rich man who gives her the most luxurious lifestyle, picture perfect in front of the cameras. The type of lifestyle most people would die for. But behind closed doors, the man she is hours away from marrying is a narcissistic, controlling, verbally abusive SOB. After one last unforgiving betrayal, she walks away leaving behind everything except a few important keep sakes and a one way flight to Maui for the honeymoon she will no longer have. On the flight she meets Darius, temptation in physical form and these 2 just keep running into each other.
It’s not all sunshine as Zariah processes the life she left behind and what to do next, however let’s just say Darius made it hard to forget him. I enjoyed the angst between these two, the undeniable attract, Darius just being there for Zariah. Their playful banter had me swooning, but those heartfelt moments of healing connected with me even more. It wasn’t easy after years of Zariah not having her voice but I loved seeing her finally choose herself. KRV THIS WAS BEAUTIFUL
It’s not all sunshine as Zariah processes the life she left behind and what to do next, however let’s just say Darius made it hard to forget him. I enjoyed the angst between these two, the undeniable attract, Darius just being there for Zariah. Their playful banter had me swooning, but those heartfelt moments of healing connected with me even more. It wasn’t easy after years of Zariah not having her voice but I loved seeing her finally choose herself. KRV THIS WAS BEAUTIFUL
October 11, 2026
I loved it ! I really love when a woman chooses herself!!!! Keep the ring is really the FMC finally saying you can keep all this i gotta get out of here and she did just that! In this cute little novella we have an FMC who leaves that man right before the wedding and takes a solo trip to Maui! She meets a man who is a fun time . Is it just a fling or something more? Hmmm idk read and find out ! I will say we have drama, spice, romance and more! I enjoyed it. It was a good time
October 8, 2026
💍📚 **Keep the Ring by Kimberly R. Vargas** 🌺❤️
**BABY!!! This novella had EVERYTHING!!** Drama, spice, a little comedy, romance, and most importantly, a message that resonated with me DEEPLY! 🥹❤️
On social media, Zariah and her fiancé Jamal appeared to have it ALL! The picture-perfect relationship, the beautiful love story, and a future that looked like something straight out of a fairy tale. But baby, we all know that everything that glitters ain't gold! 👀
After a devastating betrayal, Zariah makes the decision to walk away ON HER WEDDING DAY and heads to Maui on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and finding herself again.
**And when I tell you I related to Zariah SO MUCH!** 🥹❤️ Whew! Sometimes you're in a relationship where everything looks perfect from the outside, but on the inside, you're slowly losing yourself trying to live up to everyone else's expectations of what the perfect relationship should look like. You're so busy maintaining the image that you forget about your own happiness, peace, and worth.
And THAT message hit home for me! ❤️
Now let's talk about **DARIUS!!!** 😍🔥 Because BABYYYY!!! I absolutely loved that man! The way he entered Zariah's life and became part of her journey was EVERYTHING!
This novella gave me laughter, drama, some SPICE 🌶️, and moments that made me reflect on life, love, and the importance of choosing YOURSELF!
**I LOVED THIS BOOK DOWN!!!** 😭❤️ Sometimes the greatest love story isn't about finding someone else. It's about finding yourself again.
Kimberly R. Vargas, THANK YOU for giving us this special little treat! You managed to pack so much emotion, entertainment, and meaning into one novella, and I enjoyed every bit of it!
**Whatever you do, JUST KEEP READING!!** 📚💕💍
#KeepTheRing #KimberlyRVargas #BookReview #BlackLove #BlackRomance #Novella #Bookstagram #ReadersOfInstagram #BlackWomenRead
**BABY!!! This novella had EVERYTHING!!** Drama, spice, a little comedy, romance, and most importantly, a message that resonated with me DEEPLY! 🥹❤️
On social media, Zariah and her fiancé Jamal appeared to have it ALL! The picture-perfect relationship, the beautiful love story, and a future that looked like something straight out of a fairy tale. But baby, we all know that everything that glitters ain't gold! 👀
After a devastating betrayal, Zariah makes the decision to walk away ON HER WEDDING DAY and heads to Maui on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and finding herself again.
**And when I tell you I related to Zariah SO MUCH!** 🥹❤️ Whew! Sometimes you're in a relationship where everything looks perfect from the outside, but on the inside, you're slowly losing yourself trying to live up to everyone else's expectations of what the perfect relationship should look like. You're so busy maintaining the image that you forget about your own happiness, peace, and worth.
And THAT message hit home for me! ❤️
Now let's talk about **DARIUS!!!** 😍🔥 Because BABYYYY!!! I absolutely loved that man! The way he entered Zariah's life and became part of her journey was EVERYTHING!
This novella gave me laughter, drama, some SPICE 🌶️, and moments that made me reflect on life, love, and the importance of choosing YOURSELF!
**I LOVED THIS BOOK DOWN!!!** 😭❤️ Sometimes the greatest love story isn't about finding someone else. It's about finding yourself again.
Kimberly R. Vargas, THANK YOU for giving us this special little treat! You managed to pack so much emotion, entertainment, and meaning into one novella, and I enjoyed every bit of it!
**Whatever you do, JUST KEEP READING!!** 📚💕💍
#KeepTheRing #KimberlyRVargas #BookReview #BlackLove #BlackRomance #Novella #Bookstagram #ReadersOfInstagram #BlackWomenRead
October 15, 2026
The Audacity! A Runaway Bride, a Messy Scandal, and a Sweet Romance
BABYYYY! Kimberly Vargas said, “Let me give you a reason to call off that wedding!” because the way my jaw DROPPED at the wedding-night reveal? I had to close the book and immediately DM the author because WHAT?! Keep the Ring follows Zariah, a travel blogger who walks away from her picture-perfect relationship and escapes to Maui, where a ridiculously fine stranger helps her rediscover herself.
One thing I really appreciated was how the author portrayed emotional abuse. Not every moment in an unhealthy relationship is bad, and those good moments can make it difficult to recognize the cycle you’re caught in, let alone walk away. Watching Zariah begin to reclaim her identity and make decisions based on what SHE wants was one of my favorite parts of the story. And her chemistry with Darius? The spice delivered, and I loved that she took time to figure herself out before exploring what their connection could become.
At just over 100 pages, this was a quick, entertaining read packed with romance, drama, a messy public scandal, and a sweet ending. If you’re looking for a short Black romance featuring a runaway bride, a vacation fling, and a heroine learning to choose herself, add this one to your TBR!
BABYYYY! Kimberly Vargas said, “Let me give you a reason to call off that wedding!” because the way my jaw DROPPED at the wedding-night reveal? I had to close the book and immediately DM the author because WHAT?! Keep the Ring follows Zariah, a travel blogger who walks away from her picture-perfect relationship and escapes to Maui, where a ridiculously fine stranger helps her rediscover herself.
One thing I really appreciated was how the author portrayed emotional abuse. Not every moment in an unhealthy relationship is bad, and those good moments can make it difficult to recognize the cycle you’re caught in, let alone walk away. Watching Zariah begin to reclaim her identity and make decisions based on what SHE wants was one of my favorite parts of the story. And her chemistry with Darius? The spice delivered, and I loved that she took time to figure herself out before exploring what their connection could become.
At just over 100 pages, this was a quick, entertaining read packed with romance, drama, a messy public scandal, and a sweet ending. If you’re looking for a short Black romance featuring a runaway bride, a vacation fling, and a heroine learning to choose herself, add this one to your TBR!
October 25, 2026
Keep The Ring
Kimberly R. Vargas
Given the current reception of influencer culture, this novella is poignant. It’s easy to get caught up in the performance of living rather than actually doing so.
Zariah has it all, apparently. From the life she displays on social media, she is an inspiration. The only problem is nothing is ever what it appears to be at face value.
Zariah’s lack of autonomy is a direct contradiction to the image she feeds her following. In the pursuit of living in her own truth, she engages in a total upheaval of the life that’s been built on her back.
Betrayal by any other name could never be so forthright. Zariah trudges through deep disappointment. She allows herself to feel the totality of her misfortune.
When fighting for the life she deserves, she finds comfort in someone who genuinely listens to the stifled parts of her being.
#readandtellwithshantel #KeepTheRing#KimberlyRVargas
Kimberly R. Vargas
Given the current reception of influencer culture, this novella is poignant. It’s easy to get caught up in the performance of living rather than actually doing so.
Zariah has it all, apparently. From the life she displays on social media, she is an inspiration. The only problem is nothing is ever what it appears to be at face value.
Zariah’s lack of autonomy is a direct contradiction to the image she feeds her following. In the pursuit of living in her own truth, she engages in a total upheaval of the life that’s been built on her back.
Betrayal by any other name could never be so forthright. Zariah trudges through deep disappointment. She allows herself to feel the totality of her misfortune.
When fighting for the life she deserves, she finds comfort in someone who genuinely listens to the stifled parts of her being.
#readandtellwithshantel #KeepTheRing#KimberlyRVargas
October 27, 2026
Love that walks you into healing
Wow! When I read the synopsis and saw that Zariah was walking away from a relationship and choosing herself I knew this was going to be good but it was better than good. I love how Kimberly shows us the trauma/abuse Zariah experienced, the struggle to walk away, healing, and new love supporting and walking alongside her on the journey. I loved that Darius was there to support Zariah but he did not save her, his constant presence was the reassuring love that she needed to continue moving forward and remembering who she was. The journey that Kimberly takes us on in 121 pages is beautiful. Reading this during domestic violence awareness month felt so fitting because sometimes the wounds no one can see that were inflicted by someone's words can lingers long after you leave so to read Zariah's story and watch her heal, love, and be loved properly was simply divine.
Wow! When I read the synopsis and saw that Zariah was walking away from a relationship and choosing herself I knew this was going to be good but it was better than good. I love how Kimberly shows us the trauma/abuse Zariah experienced, the struggle to walk away, healing, and new love supporting and walking alongside her on the journey. I loved that Darius was there to support Zariah but he did not save her, his constant presence was the reassuring love that she needed to continue moving forward and remembering who she was. The journey that Kimberly takes us on in 121 pages is beautiful. Reading this during domestic violence awareness month felt so fitting because sometimes the wounds no one can see that were inflicted by someone's words can lingers long after you leave so to read Zariah's story and watch her heal, love, and be loved properly was simply divine.
October 29, 2026
Lorddddd! One thing Kim Vargas is gonna do is GAG me with a plot twist! IN THE PROLOGUE?! SHEESH! I was sick to my stomach for Zariah!
Her relationship with Jamal was proof that everything isn’t always what it seems, especially when we idolize other people’s relationships.
For a novella, Keep the Ring packed a punch! I loved how Vargas tackled emotional abuse and showed just how difficult it can be to walk away when the bad is mixed with the good. Seeing Zariah finally put herself first and rediscover who she was made this story even more rewarding!
And Darius was everything she needed! Their shared experiences made their connection even sweeter. A quick read with some heavy themes, romance, and a whole lot to unpack!
Her relationship with Jamal was proof that everything isn’t always what it seems, especially when we idolize other people’s relationships.
For a novella, Keep the Ring packed a punch! I loved how Vargas tackled emotional abuse and showed just how difficult it can be to walk away when the bad is mixed with the good. Seeing Zariah finally put herself first and rediscover who she was made this story even more rewarding!
And Darius was everything she needed! Their shared experiences made their connection even sweeter. A quick read with some heavy themes, romance, and a whole lot to unpack!
October 16, 2026
this was my first but won’t be my last
This was my first story by Kimberly R. Vargas. She did say she writes messy, complicated love stories and baby Keep The Ring gives you exactly that.
Zariah lives a life young girls dream of: the man, the trips, the money, and the fame. Beneath the glitz and glamour , she has lost herself. One messy incident forces her to choose herself. But can she stand on it? Or will societal pressures force her to stay?
We see Zariah at lowest but we also get front row seats to witness her coming into her own. This is the story for the lovers, the dreamers and the ones confident enough to know everything that glitters ain’t gold.
This was my first story by Kimberly R. Vargas. She did say she writes messy, complicated love stories and baby Keep The Ring gives you exactly that.
Zariah lives a life young girls dream of: the man, the trips, the money, and the fame. Beneath the glitz and glamour , she has lost herself. One messy incident forces her to choose herself. But can she stand on it? Or will societal pressures force her to stay?
We see Zariah at lowest but we also get front row seats to witness her coming into her own. This is the story for the lovers, the dreamers and the ones confident enough to know everything that glitters ain’t gold.
October 22, 2026
This novella packed a punch and a whole lot of feels. Zariah is engaged to Jamal. They’re social media influencers and it’s the wedding of the year when she walks away the morning of the wedding.
The story is about what happens when she walks away. How she’s lost but finds herself and someone to love her for her.
It was the perfect blend of lost love, found love and spice. I loved everything about this book. Honestly I haven’t read a book by the author that I haven’t loved. Glad to have experienced this journey of love too!
The story is about what happens when she walks away. How she’s lost but finds herself and someone to love her for her.
It was the perfect blend of lost love, found love and spice. I loved everything about this book. Honestly I haven’t read a book by the author that I haven’t loved. Glad to have experienced this journey of love too!
October 25, 2026
This was my first time reading a book by KRV. She writes well and I really enjoyed the pacing! The story was very good and I’m glad Z did what she needed to do for herself. Always choose you, girlies! The only thing I wished is that she had more alone time at the end. Throughout the story, I still didn’t feel like she was making decisions for herself was even getting to know her likes and dislikes because she still had Darius to do all the thinking. Outside of that, really good and I think I will read more by KRV.
October 8, 2026
“Keep the Ring” was such a great reminder that not everything glitters is gold.
One thing about me, I will always read an author’s note. And baby did she set the stage for us.
I totally connected the feeling of escape and loss. The betrayal…. Right in the heart. But baby that fine Mahogany.. yeah I felt that too lol 😝
You never know what’s happening behind the camera and social media post. You could be in the beautiful of place and be right next to your enemy.
One thing about me, I will always read an author’s note. And baby did she set the stage for us.
I totally connected the feeling of escape and loss. The betrayal…. Right in the heart. But baby that fine Mahogany.. yeah I felt that too lol 😝
You never know what’s happening behind the camera and social media post. You could be in the beautiful of place and be right next to your enemy.
October 20, 2026
Read in less than a day!
I loved that the main characters Zariah and Darius met by happenstance and then were able to have each other to figure things out with after navigating the end if difficult relationships. Zariah doing the work to regain her self confidence and discovering who she is.
I loved that the main characters Zariah and Darius met by happenstance and then were able to have each other to figure things out with after navigating the end if difficult relationships. Zariah doing the work to regain her self confidence and discovering who she is.
October 22, 2026
Definitely a lot happened in a short time. I felt for Zariah from page one, but the event that finally opened her eyes, I didn't see coming. Darius was everything she didn't even know she needed.
This was a fast paced book but still a sweet and romantic read.
This was a fast paced book but still a sweet and romantic read.
October 23, 2026
This is my first KRV read and it did not disappoint!
Even after running away, I could feel how Z was drowning. I was trying to catch my breath with her on every page...but then the Mahogany Giant came in and made everything clear. This is a 10/10 read!!!
Even after running away, I could feel how Z was drowning. I was trying to catch my breath with her on every page...but then the Mahogany Giant came in and made everything clear. This is a 10/10 read!!!
October 15, 2026
Perfect quick read. Nice to see a woman standing up for herself even when it doesn't always go for what everyone around her thought she should do.
October 18, 2026
This was a quick one that had all the feelings and the ending was so satisfying. Thank you so much for the free read Ms. Vargas.
October 20, 2026
This was a perfect quick read with spice, family drama, self-discovery, and instant love! 💕
October 22, 2026
This was perfect! Darius is such a sweetheart. Jamal and Karma could go kick hot coal 😤 So happy Zariah took her power back and figured out what she wanted 🫶🏾
And the cover is absolutely beautiful!
And the cover is absolutely beautiful!
October 31, 2026
I listened to the audio for this one and I enjoyed it. I thought it was a good story! Definitely will be trying more books from this author in the future.
November 1, 2026
FMC had been put through the ringer. Between having a controlling fiancee and a hating a** mama, I really wanted the FMC to win and this book didn't disappoint. Mahogany Giant came through and saved the day every time. This novella was a really quick read but it was super rich in details and tension, and overcoming adversity.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews