What do you think?
Rate this book
Twenty in 2020
Symona's Still Single
Symona Brown is a 37-year old Jamaican British woman living in South London looking for her Mr. Right whilst her biological clock loudly ticks on. She announces to her close girlfriends after a boozy Sunday brunch, that she is ready to up her game and start actively dating, to their surprise and delight. After being consciously single for a number of years, Symona remembers what worked and what definitely did not in the dating arena. This time, she knows who she is and what she wants.
As Symona reflects through her memories from one Mr. to another, she reveals her sensual, hilarious and downright frustrating encounters. She finds herself asking, “What does it mean to be a Black woman trying to exist, date and find love?” In her pursuit of love, she learns new lessons and different answers. Will these new revelations get her what she wants?
As Symona reflects through her memories from one Mr. to another, she reveals her sensual, hilarious and downright frustrating encounters. She finds herself asking, “What does it mean to be a Black woman trying to exist, date and find love?” In her pursuit of love, she learns new lessons and different answers. Will these new revelations get her what she wants?
352 pages, Paperback
First published October 8, 2020
9 people are currently reading
313 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Bent
3 books14 followersLisa Bent is a writer of Jamaican descent from South London. Her work examines the inner self work required to heal and thrive. Her degree in Counselling influences her writing style, which champions the continuous journey of self-exploration.
In 2015, after six years, she concluded the award-nominated blog Deeper Than Twitter. She has contributed to Precious Online, The Tribe and the KOL Social Magazine.
Symona’s Still Single is her first novel. Follow her at www.lisabent.com and on Twitter/Instagram @iamlisabent
In 2015, after six years, she concluded the award-nominated blog Deeper Than Twitter. She has contributed to Precious Online, The Tribe and the KOL Social Magazine.
Symona’s Still Single is her first novel. Follow her at www.lisabent.com and on Twitter/Instagram @iamlisabent
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
November 12, 2020
Review is coming!
January 31, 2022
While the premise of this book sounds relatable and entertaining, Symona's Still Single failed to deliver an exciting audiobook experience. The biggest struggle was the unnecessarily lengthy monologues delivered by the protagonist. While she’s likeable and expresses her feelings in a way that helps the reader connect, I would have much preferred to hear more conversation or interaction to move the story along. Instead, there are huge chunks of the book dedicated to Symona's own thoughts which become repetitive and monotonous.
The author’s reflective writing does explore a lot of sentiments and insecurities Black women in their 30/40’s may face, which is representation I rarely see. It was great to gain insight into Symona’s life, and I enjoyed the way Bent tied in the character’s past to her present experiences. Symona’s friends make lovely secondary characters and I wish they played a bigger role in the story as their appearance always brought some humour and levity. But sadly, the slow pace of this book and too much narration are the only things I’ll remember.
The author’s reflective writing does explore a lot of sentiments and insecurities Black women in their 30/40’s may face, which is representation I rarely see. It was great to gain insight into Symona’s life, and I enjoyed the way Bent tied in the character’s past to her present experiences. Symona’s friends make lovely secondary characters and I wish they played a bigger role in the story as their appearance always brought some humour and levity. But sadly, the slow pace of this book and too much narration are the only things I’ll remember.
March 16, 2021
Felt more like a lecture than a novel, with thinly drawn, indistinguishable supporting characters and a protagonist who monologues for paragraphs at a time rather than having believable conversations with a natural back and forth.
The author had some points to get across, but the delivery falls outside of the realm of believable and the novel feels quite cold and removed, as if viewed from a distance. Disappointing.
The author had some points to get across, but the delivery falls outside of the realm of believable and the novel feels quite cold and removed, as if viewed from a distance. Disappointing.
dnf
July 15, 2022dnf 20% too many boring long monologues for me, i really didn’t care about anything that was happening
July 19, 2022
I didn’t really care for this. It fell short of the story telling and came across as more of a self help guide.
January 25, 2021
2.5 stars. DNF @ 66%.
July 13, 2022
The book I never thought I needed!
March 29, 2022
Great book!! So relatable really enjoyed the journey the author takes you on. I think we all in our own way can relate to some of the things Symona has experienced at some stage in our lives.
October 24, 2020
Absolutely loved the booked. Started and didn’t stop reading until I reluctantly finished it in one sitting. The book is relatable, funny and realistic.
The author was able to evoke various emotions within the reader which is always a sign of a great writer.
Highly recommend to the 30s/40s age bracket or anyone who just loves a good romantic, down-to-earth novel.
You won’t be disappointed!
The author was able to evoke various emotions within the reader which is always a sign of a great writer.
Highly recommend to the 30s/40s age bracket or anyone who just loves a good romantic, down-to-earth novel.
You won’t be disappointed!
March 22, 2022
This book was a struggle to read. A thinly veiled self help book, with “characters” that were obviously just literary vehicles to deliver that chapter’s lessons. Believe in yourself, focus on your goals, be intentional, catch a man’s eye to flirt with him… these are the “pearls of wisdom” this book takes paragraphs, monologues and chapters to deliver! The truth is this whole book could have been an instagram post or one of the slower episodes of Sex and the City/Girlfriends.
I appreciate that Symona’s struggles and insecurities might resonate with a lot of women especially these days but those women deserve better advice than “what is for you won’t pass you” delivered through unrealistic conversations, way too long journal entries and all the stereotypical interactions with men one can imagine.
I appreciate that Symona’s struggles and insecurities might resonate with a lot of women especially these days but those women deserve better advice than “what is for you won’t pass you” delivered through unrealistic conversations, way too long journal entries and all the stereotypical interactions with men one can imagine.
December 16, 2020
Symona's Still Single
‘Symona Brown is a 37-year old Jamaican British woman living in South London looking for her Mr. Right whilst her biological clock ticks on. In her pursuit of love, she learns new lessons and different answers. Will these revelations get her what she wants?’
I pre-ordered Symona's Still Single in support of my friends' new journey as an author as one of the #Twentyin2020 for Jacaranda books. Mostly, I purchased knowing it would be an extension of the hilarious and enticing snippets into author Lisa Bent's 'dating' escapades shared through her Facebook page.
Knowing Lisa personally, you would think this review was biased - but it is not! As a single Black woman, myself in my early 40's, I was perhaps (shamelessly) seeking tips from Lisa - with her background in counselling and coaching, I figured I would collect a few nuggets of wisdom along the way but I received so much more.
Symona was definitely my favourite character. I identified with her experiences and was silently championing her success at finding love. The group chats and gatherings with her girlfriends - a necessary aspect of life, gave a sounding board for and relevance to the scenarios that Symona found herself in. Each character with her own nuances which you could realistically attribute to your own circle of friends.
Each chapter could happily stand alone, which didn't leave the reader grasping for the chapter prior to keep on top of the story, but also allows you to tie the ends together as the story grows in the subsequent chapters and we find out more about Symona’s sorrowful past.
With many favourite parts to the story, the hilarious scenarios that made me cringe (with startling similarity) and laugh out loud in equal measure, I particularly enjoyed the references to manifesting, the universe and Symona’s out loud thoughts which resonated with me and made me think about what work I personally need to put in.
Most frustrating thing: the ending! Makes complete sense to the sequence of the story but I am now waiting for the next book or to see Symona on screen!
This book will appeal to men and women alike, if you’re into relationship drama (or are taking a break from your own!). More than fiction – this is real-life with comedy and a dash of advice and self-help.
‘Symona Brown is a 37-year old Jamaican British woman living in South London looking for her Mr. Right whilst her biological clock ticks on. In her pursuit of love, she learns new lessons and different answers. Will these revelations get her what she wants?’
I pre-ordered Symona's Still Single in support of my friends' new journey as an author as one of the #Twentyin2020 for Jacaranda books. Mostly, I purchased knowing it would be an extension of the hilarious and enticing snippets into author Lisa Bent's 'dating' escapades shared through her Facebook page.
Knowing Lisa personally, you would think this review was biased - but it is not! As a single Black woman, myself in my early 40's, I was perhaps (shamelessly) seeking tips from Lisa - with her background in counselling and coaching, I figured I would collect a few nuggets of wisdom along the way but I received so much more.
Symona was definitely my favourite character. I identified with her experiences and was silently championing her success at finding love. The group chats and gatherings with her girlfriends - a necessary aspect of life, gave a sounding board for and relevance to the scenarios that Symona found herself in. Each character with her own nuances which you could realistically attribute to your own circle of friends.
Each chapter could happily stand alone, which didn't leave the reader grasping for the chapter prior to keep on top of the story, but also allows you to tie the ends together as the story grows in the subsequent chapters and we find out more about Symona’s sorrowful past.
With many favourite parts to the story, the hilarious scenarios that made me cringe (with startling similarity) and laugh out loud in equal measure, I particularly enjoyed the references to manifesting, the universe and Symona’s out loud thoughts which resonated with me and made me think about what work I personally need to put in.
Most frustrating thing: the ending! Makes complete sense to the sequence of the story but I am now waiting for the next book or to see Symona on screen!
This book will appeal to men and women alike, if you’re into relationship drama (or are taking a break from your own!). More than fiction – this is real-life with comedy and a dash of advice and self-help.
March 9, 2025
“Nothing for you will pass you. Everything happens for a reason. See the lesson and keep it moving. Consciously choose your situation. Nothing good ever comes from running in the opposite direction of the wind. And lastly, red flags and sign posts are there for a reason.”
I love a good love story especially those that involve the main characters growing and loving themselves.
📚📚📚
Symona Brown is a 37-year old Jamaican British woman living in South London looking for her Mr. Right whilst her biological clock loudly ticks on. She announces to her close girlfriends after a boozy Sunday brunch, that she is ready to up her game and start actively dating, to their surprise and delight. After being consciously single for a number of years, Symona remembers what worked and what definitely did not in the dating arena. This time, she knows who she is and what she wants.
As Symona reflects through her memories from one Mr. to another, she reveals her sensual, hilarious and downright frustrating encounters. She finds herself asking, "What does it mean to be a Black woman trying to exist, date and find love?" In her pursuit of love, she learns new lessons and different answers. Will these new revelations get her what she wants?
📚📚📚
This was an easy and enjoyable read dealing with other relationships outside of the romantic one Symona is seeking, it also deals with her personal growth, spirituality and career.
This book was part of Jacaranda Twenty in 2020 a publishing initiative by Jacaranda Books, a London-based independent press, where they committed to publishing 20 titles by 20 different Black British writers in a single year (2020).
May 26, 2024
What a journey. I have to admit, this was a bit of a struggle to get through at the beginning. I really felt like Symona was concentrating on the wrong things. But, I am coming from a different place. I've been with my husband since I was 19. At 48 years old, I've been with him longer than I've been without him. So, easy for me to say.
But, I loved what she had to say about being a black woman in society. About being "other'ed" at times and completely invisible others. And people asking her over and over why she was still single...GAH. that would drive me bonkers.
Overall though, I loved the journey that Symona went on. The book ended before what I would have expected in traditional romance. But it ended in exactly the right place. Better for us to figure it out what happens to her in the end. I know I have my theories.
I just enjoyed this book. Even the difficult parts because it was her journey and I could respect that. I thought the narrator did an amazing job of bringing this character, these characters to life.
This is my first book by this author but I really enjoyed it. I'm hoping she writes more because I will definitely be looking out for more of her work!
But, I loved what she had to say about being a black woman in society. About being "other'ed" at times and completely invisible others. And people asking her over and over why she was still single...GAH. that would drive me bonkers.
Overall though, I loved the journey that Symona went on. The book ended before what I would have expected in traditional romance. But it ended in exactly the right place. Better for us to figure it out what happens to her in the end. I know I have my theories.
I just enjoyed this book. Even the difficult parts because it was her journey and I could respect that. I thought the narrator did an amazing job of bringing this character, these characters to life.
This is my first book by this author but I really enjoyed it. I'm hoping she writes more because I will definitely be looking out for more of her work!
January 26, 2021
In 2016 Symona is 37 and single, with her biological clock ticking. I listened to Lisa Bent talking about her book at Jacaranda's 20 in 2020 Festival; it was one of the books which hooked me from the reading of the first chapter. I also enjoyed Bent's spoken style and thought any book which was infused with that voice would be great. The story flips from Symona's memories of dating to her actually beginning to date again.
Symona is a warm character with a level of self-knowledge and confidence that is both moving and admirable. Instantly likeable, she sets about navigating relationships as a Black woman trying to date in London with the support of her incredible friends.
The chapters of the first half sometimes felt a little disjointed, as they were often a series of memories. There were also the occasional lapses in spelling, punctuation or grammar of the narration. However, I loved the second half of the book where Bent brought in her counselling expertise to take Symona on a journey of growth and healing. While there are emotional moments, reading this book ultimately brought a sense of peace and calm. Bent's reflective style and emphasis on inner spiritual work was touching. And, of course, I loved the all-important ending.
Symona is a warm character with a level of self-knowledge and confidence that is both moving and admirable. Instantly likeable, she sets about navigating relationships as a Black woman trying to date in London with the support of her incredible friends.
The chapters of the first half sometimes felt a little disjointed, as they were often a series of memories. There were also the occasional lapses in spelling, punctuation or grammar of the narration. However, I loved the second half of the book where Bent brought in her counselling expertise to take Symona on a journey of growth and healing. While there are emotional moments, reading this book ultimately brought a sense of peace and calm. Bent's reflective style and emphasis on inner spiritual work was touching. And, of course, I loved the all-important ending.
January 23, 2021
I really loved this book. It made me laugh, made me reflect and at times gave me goosebumps. When I read Lisa’s bio at the end it made so much sense that she’s a professional counsellor. This is a love story but the main character is falling in love with and getting to know herself (whilst having some dates and dalliances along the way).
I loved Symona’s voice throughout and I’m going to miss hanging out with her. I especially loved the dynamic between her and her Grandma. There is a particular scene which will really stay with me. So moving.
I hate the word ‘chicklit’ because it doesn’t do these stories justice but this is a great and super original ‘chicklit’ read featuring an awesome cast of black women. I’m so pleased Symona’s Still Single was picked up by Jacaranda Books’ #Twentyin2020 initiative. You should read this book!
I loved Symona’s voice throughout and I’m going to miss hanging out with her. I especially loved the dynamic between her and her Grandma. There is a particular scene which will really stay with me. So moving.
I hate the word ‘chicklit’ because it doesn’t do these stories justice but this is a great and super original ‘chicklit’ read featuring an awesome cast of black women. I’m so pleased Symona’s Still Single was picked up by Jacaranda Books’ #Twentyin2020 initiative. You should read this book!
March 2, 2021
A page-turner of a book which is entertaining, touching and surprisingly thought provoking. I am white, and I found the story and characters totally relatable, but it was also eye-opening to hear about the different perspectives and experiences women of colour in the UK have with regards to dating and life in general. I laughed, and I cried, and missed the book once it was finished —all good signs. Lisa writes in natural, everyday language, but don't be fooled, there are some deep themes going on beneath the surface, despite the seemingly relaxed, diary-esque writing style.
June 12, 2021
I absolutely loved this book. Pure escapism. Made me laugh and cry and I completely fell in love with with all of the characters. They’re the people you want as friends, confidents, family, supporters, encouragers. There’s one particular scene that has not left me since and has spoken to me deeply. I won’t say anything more because I didn’t see it coming and that for me made it all the more powerful. This book was everything I needed to read right now - and I cannot wait for her next novel! Pure joy. You will not be disappointed.
February 20, 2022
This book was just not my cup of tea on so many levels. I found it difficult to relate with the characters and struggled with the story overall. The main character had a lot of issues throughout the entire book, and it felt like the resolution was only found in the last 20 pages. We didn’t get to have the build-up into what was happening in the main story. It definitely felt more like a blog or journal entry rather than a complete story. So by the end of the book, I wasn’t that invested into why the character was single.
May 21, 2022
I really enjoyed the storyline of this novel. It is really nice seeing an woman trying to date in her late thirties who is presented as strong and capable, not some sad cautionary tale. Symona is a likable character and her story in the novel shows that women do not need to have low standards or settle to find happiness. The major issue that I had with the novel was that is needs an editor, this would help with overall readability, as the lack of editing leaves the book feeling clunky in some places.
June 2, 2021
Not totally for me and I found some parts of it a bit annoying, however what this book does have is a sense of empowerment. Even before I knew that it was written by a therapist, I could still sense it. It shows very clear boundaries within the character's choices and thus advocates well for self respect. That is both refreshing and valuable in a simple novel where storyline is not the strongest (or I would argue not even the selling point worth exploring).
July 22, 2021
When reading please acknowledge my grammar is not the best as I am dyslexic.
This book is an easy read, it’s not the most captivating story line, but it was a nice book to read. I can tell it was a debut novel from the writing style, I could also tell it was written by a therapist, which I think is the element of the book that drew me in.
I love all the incorporation surrounding spiritual energy, I think spiritual energy and connections are massively overlooked.
A lovely read.
This book is an easy read, it’s not the most captivating story line, but it was a nice book to read. I can tell it was a debut novel from the writing style, I could also tell it was written by a therapist, which I think is the element of the book that drew me in.
I love all the incorporation surrounding spiritual energy, I think spiritual energy and connections are massively overlooked.
A lovely read.
May 19, 2025
A book about love - self-love, family love, romantic love.
I see now how a love story can take so many forms; over time Symona grew to love herself and then show others how to love her, setting clear and safe boundaries. I enjoyed reading this but kept thinking if this was a sequel because of the flash backs.
The time stamps threw me as I wasn't sure if we were in the past or present (not having a year or date reference in the beginning).
I see now how a love story can take so many forms; over time Symona grew to love herself and then show others how to love her, setting clear and safe boundaries. I enjoyed reading this but kept thinking if this was a sequel because of the flash backs.
The time stamps threw me as I wasn't sure if we were in the past or present (not having a year or date reference in the beginning).
October 2, 2021
I have a bit mixed feelings about this book. Some parts are very superficial, like large focus on physical appearance (all characters are super gorgeous). overall the story is interesting. I wish there was more deeper storyline about ageing, dealing with racism and sexism since these topics were brought up and had impact on main character.
December 28, 2020
This book was not for me. Perhaps i would've preferred the print version, but i was ultimately very disappointed by this book.
May 1, 2021
When I heard about this book I was so excited, but the plot was thin and the pace slow
June 27, 2021
Loved this book! Super relatable & some life lessons for every women!
September 4, 2021
I’m between 3 & 4 stars
October 25, 2021
Beautiful story of growth love and self actualisation
November 1, 2021
I could connect to Syms. So many similar experiences.
December 1, 2021
Really interested chilled out read. The main character was captivating and the continuous stream of conscious thoughts and reasoning were my favourite parts (which was majority of the book!)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews