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Body By Night
Zuri Day sizzles with a seductive story of one woman's quest to take control of her life...while experiencing an attraction too explosive to resist.
D'Andra Smalls has had enough. She's tired of being overweight, she's had it with her overbearing family, and she's fed up with settling for any guy who'll have her—especially since she caught her boyfriend cheating with her best friend. But working out and avoiding delicious food is easy compared to resisting the charms of Los Angeles' hottest personal trainer, JaJuan "Night" Simmons. Six feet of chiseled muscle and fine chocolate, he's challenging her body in all the right ways--and proving there's a sensitive, caring guy under the good looks. Their shared career goals of promoting health and fitness bring them even closer together. But D'Andra feels it may be too much of a good thing. After succeeding in taking command of her life, can she risk losing control of her heart?
D'Andra Smalls has had enough. She's tired of being overweight, she's had it with her overbearing family, and she's fed up with settling for any guy who'll have her—especially since she caught her boyfriend cheating with her best friend. But working out and avoiding delicious food is easy compared to resisting the charms of Los Angeles' hottest personal trainer, JaJuan "Night" Simmons. Six feet of chiseled muscle and fine chocolate, he's challenging her body in all the right ways--and proving there's a sensitive, caring guy under the good looks. Their shared career goals of promoting health and fitness bring them even closer together. But D'Andra feels it may be too much of a good thing. After succeeding in taking command of her life, can she risk losing control of her heart?
356 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 1, 2009
51 people are currently reading
221 people want to read
About the author
Zuri Day
106 books273 followersZuri Day is a hopeful romantic. She believes in happy endings, half-full glasses and dreams coming true. That's why she's thrilled to be a contributing writer to this genre...one of her favorites!
Zuri doesn't remember exactly how old she was when she picked up her first romance novel, but she does remember it was love at first sight. "It was probably a Harlequin," she recalled during a recent interview. "And it thankfully took me away from a fairly dull and routine existence growing up in a small Kansas town."
Things aren't dull and routine anymore. Zuri now resides in Los Angeles with her family and when she isn't writing loves to travel the world, cook vegetarian food, work out, watch sports, attend concerts and theatre and enjoy the simple things in life.
"Many people have given up on love, much less romance," Zuri says. "I'm hoping that somehow, through the love-filled pages of my romance novels, I can ignite the reader's desire to believe again. Because everything is possible, when we believe..."
Zuri doesn't remember exactly how old she was when she picked up her first romance novel, but she does remember it was love at first sight. "It was probably a Harlequin," she recalled during a recent interview. "And it thankfully took me away from a fairly dull and routine existence growing up in a small Kansas town."
Things aren't dull and routine anymore. Zuri now resides in Los Angeles with her family and when she isn't writing loves to travel the world, cook vegetarian food, work out, watch sports, attend concerts and theatre and enjoy the simple things in life.
"Many people have given up on love, much less romance," Zuri says. "I'm hoping that somehow, through the love-filled pages of my romance novels, I can ignite the reader's desire to believe again. Because everything is possible, when we believe..."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
March 29, 2016
3.75 stars
May 3, 2009
I must say that Body By Night was a absolutely perfect read. I enjoyed this story so much that I am still thinking about the characters and only wish I knew them to see what they were up to now. This is a romance novel focused on a woman who is a not your small petite frame but she will claim the heart of one on the most honorable and sexy men in L.A. This book reminded me so much of a beauty and the beast but the main character De’Andra will face more then you ever imagine in the short amount of months. When you read this novel you will more then fall in love with these characters but you will become apart of the story. Go get this book
Tamika Newhouse
AAMBC Book Reviewer
Tamika Newhouse
AAMBC Book Reviewer
December 23, 2021
I thought that Night and DAndra was great together. He was good for her in many ways. He was a friend, a great trainer, motivator and when he needed to he would put his foot down and push her to the limit in her quest to lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Night's ex Jazz in my opinion was an idiot; she was so delusional in thinking that she could have what she wanted when she wanted it just because she had a pretty face and size 4 body. It was funny in the end when the cards Jazz played throughout the movie was TRUMPED big time. She couldn't latch onto either man she set her trap for. LOL..............This was a really cute story.
March 5, 2009
I REALLY enjoyed this story! While reading I was treated to an inspiring, intriguing, amusing and romantic DELIGHT. I was TOTALLY caught up in the voluptuous Ms. D'Andra (her MANY issues) and the AMAZING, sexy-as-all-get-out, BOSSY Mr. Night, and their budding friendship-turned-relationship from beginning to end. Ms. Day weaves quite an ENGAGING storyline, with a cast of well-developed and UNFORGETTABLE characters. The conflict and drama that the characters, (main and secondary) struggle with makes this novel that much more compelling and entertaining. Ms. Day not only entertains, but she also provides some informative tidbits regarding the SERIOUS health issues threatening our race (especially women). She creates quite a CAPTIVATING grown & sexy romance about personal and professional growth, love and life, and the UNFORTUNATE dysfunctional dynamics that some families experience. IMO this is definitely a WORTHWHILE read! KUDOS, Ms. Day!
April 20, 2023
An awesome story about two people striving to achieve their dreams despite jealous and vindictive ex-lovers as well as selfish family members.
D'Andria's out of control weight has now threatened her health. So she joins a health club and runs smack into super, sexy personal trainer, Night Simmons. D'Andria can't believe this gorgeous man could possibly be interested in her because even her own parents rejected her and there are no words for her sleazy, cheating ex-boyfriend.
Just as Night finally persuades D'Andria to give their relationship a chance, a devastating secret is revealed that may just destroy everything.
April 4, 2012
I loved the story it kept you on your toes; I just felt the ending was incomplete but I was satisfied with it nevertheless. This book almost brought me to tears because I was able to relate on some level to alot of the situation. It is a great read!
January 24, 2013
Plus sized ladies can be beautiful too! There were points where I felt the writing was a little too cheesy or juvenile, but I love rooting for the underdog and D'Andra was it in this book. Pretty steamy too!
January 31, 2013
Eh what can I say..big girls don't cry..and Dandra def wasn't crying..maybe a moan..ahem from workouts..but Night def was the man to bring this unhealthy shy chick into her own.. I liked the plot and the characters. My first read by Zuri..def not my last.
May 8, 2009
Very well written book. This was my first time reading a book by this author and I truly enjoyed this book. I would definitely read anything else written by the author.
March 14, 2019
Romance with depth
Great book! It had more depth than your typical romance. Even though the heroine was plus-sized she wasn’t overly critical of herself like some authors like to make them. And finally a good looking hero who wasn’t a man whore. It had many different storylines in it which all kept my attention. It was refreshing to read a book where is wasn’t just about sex, sex and more sex and oh now they’re in love. With the situations they went through, their falling in love felt genuine. I usually delete books to prevent clutter but I’m keeping this one to read in the future, I definitely recommend it.
Great book! It had more depth than your typical romance. Even though the heroine was plus-sized she wasn’t overly critical of herself like some authors like to make them. And finally a good looking hero who wasn’t a man whore. It had many different storylines in it which all kept my attention. It was refreshing to read a book where is wasn’t just about sex, sex and more sex and oh now they’re in love. With the situations they went through, their falling in love felt genuine. I usually delete books to prevent clutter but I’m keeping this one to read in the future, I definitely recommend it.
March 4, 2020
Good read
I liked this story full of coincidences; I'm a sucker for a sweet romance. It was enjoyable reading about D'Andra's progression as it went on, as well as Night's and even Mary's. As I was reading, my mind kept trying to predict where things were going...I was right on some counts but wrong on others (which is a good thing).
I will say that the situation with who Cassandra ended up with seemed a TAD forced to me, but not so much so that it ruined anything. It was good to see that character mature (some) as the story progressed, also.
Overall, I enjoyed it.
I liked this story full of coincidences; I'm a sucker for a sweet romance. It was enjoyable reading about D'Andra's progression as it went on, as well as Night's and even Mary's. As I was reading, my mind kept trying to predict where things were going...I was right on some counts but wrong on others (which is a good thing).
I will say that the situation with who Cassandra ended up with seemed a TAD forced to me, but not so much so that it ruined anything. It was good to see that character mature (some) as the story progressed, also.
Overall, I enjoyed it.
October 7, 2019
Dollhouse Brickhouse Baby
Night and D’Andra were what each other needed to heal from the wounds from past relationships. Night got his beloved gym that he worked hard to achieve and the woman who was also loved by his mom, Mrs. Val and D’Andra got a man who loved her thickness, a job that helped educate people, found out who her father was, and really bonded with her mom and sister.
Night and D’Andra were what each other needed to heal from the wounds from past relationships. Night got his beloved gym that he worked hard to achieve and the woman who was also loved by his mom, Mrs. Val and D’Andra got a man who loved her thickness, a job that helped educate people, found out who her father was, and really bonded with her mom and sister.
June 14, 2020
Fitness has never been sexier
I really enjoyed this story of a very hot personal trainer and the woman whom he helps on her wellness journey. This book is high on the drama side, and there's a LOT going on, but it's all a fun ride. I really admire D'Andra and her story, and I appreciate how the author slips in some subtle PSAs about public health issues for the Black community. Overall this is a satisfying and sexy read.
I really enjoyed this story of a very hot personal trainer and the woman whom he helps on her wellness journey. This book is high on the drama side, and there's a LOT going on, but it's all a fun ride. I really admire D'Andra and her story, and I appreciate how the author slips in some subtle PSAs about public health issues for the Black community. Overall this is a satisfying and sexy read.
September 7, 2018
This book should have had potential, but it fell flat early. The family drama was ok, but there were too many other storylines that felt dull and unneeded.
Don’t let this be the deciding factor if you want to read her other books. This is her earlier work and she has grown into a phenomenal writer.
Don’t let this be the deciding factor if you want to read her other books. This is her earlier work and she has grown into a phenomenal writer.
November 1, 2016
Amazing!
This story was just that! Amazing! Plus-sized diva meets chocolate hunk. They had a lot of obstacles to deal with: family, crazy ex and secrets. They prevailed and got their HEA.
This story was just that! Amazing! Plus-sized diva meets chocolate hunk. They had a lot of obstacles to deal with: family, crazy ex and secrets. They prevailed and got their HEA.
July 2, 2017
What can I say...loved it. This book has expired me to get in shape. I wish my love was a personal trainer. I enjoyed reading about the love that developed which was based on more instinct not sight. I even enjoyed reading the insecurity of Sandra and Nights caution.
May 11, 2018
Good read
I love the book. It made me feel like I can do what I set My mind to do about my eating right and exercising. I'm on the right road and this book gave me a little more strength for me to keep doing what I'm doing.
I love the book. It made me feel like I can do what I set My mind to do about my eating right and exercising. I'm on the right road and this book gave me a little more strength for me to keep doing what I'm doing.
December 14, 2019
Good things come in all size package
The chance meeting of D'Andra and Night affected so many lives. Loved it although her mom was a trip something good came out it. Left me wondering if Cassandra is going to be able to hold on to her man. Hope so.
The chance meeting of D'Andra and Night affected so many lives. Loved it although her mom was a trip something good came out it. Left me wondering if Cassandra is going to be able to hold on to her man. Hope so.
July 20, 2023
Incredible ✍🏾✍🏾
So many inspiring messages in the book, I cannot begin to list all. With this romantic story comes many ideas and thoughts. The best that I can offer is, READ THIS BOOK! U will not regret.
So many inspiring messages in the book, I cannot begin to list all. With this romantic story comes many ideas and thoughts. The best that I can offer is, READ THIS BOOK! U will not regret.
December 28, 2017
I absolutely love this book! Please read! 😁
June 7, 2017
Sweet romance. I didn't get the amount heat I read in other reviews; more warm than hot. Still, I liked it.
July 6, 2017
Love it!!!
This book was great to read. It kept me interested. I can't wait to read more books by this author.
This book was great to read. It kept me interested. I can't wait to read more books by this author.
August 9, 2019
Good read
September 4, 2020
I didn’t like The Who’s my daddy mystery/drama. I liked the characters they were well developed.
July 11, 2021
Loss weight goals lead to love
June 7, 2025
So no consequences for Cassandra?
October 20, 2015
The way that society is nowadays we are very visual beings. Basically if it looks good then we like it. It is rare that a person will like something for its worth and not for its appeal but when that happens it is almost always going to be a benefits from the results.
D'Andra Smalls is a beautiful woman. She has a pure heart of platinum and is a BBW ~ big beautiful woman. Though she is confident in her work abilities her size is beginning to causing her problems with her health. She has finally made up her mind to do something about it until she runs into a obstacle that is less of an obstacle than she realizes. What should she do? Just give up yet again or continue on until the completion of her goal?
JaJuan "Night" Simmons is a dream. He has the body of a god with the personality to go with it. Night takes health very seriously and being a personal trainer helps him maintain that beautiful body of his. When Night decides to open a gym he is looking for a certain type of clientele but how can he attain that when what he is looking for is intimated by the very thing that he is so passionate about?
Body By Night is not at all what I imagined it would be and for that I am pleased. This book is refreshing. It gives a look at the possibility of friendship and love from the old saying opposites attract. This story flows and you remain interested in the lives of the characters and you don't want to put the book down or the story to end. It is well written and once again Zuri Day does not disappoint. Complete, energetic, exciting, loving, passionate, sad, pleasant and genuine are just some of the words that can be used to describe this story. Trust me you will not be disappointed.
D'Andra Smalls is a beautiful woman. She has a pure heart of platinum and is a BBW ~ big beautiful woman. Though she is confident in her work abilities her size is beginning to causing her problems with her health. She has finally made up her mind to do something about it until she runs into a obstacle that is less of an obstacle than she realizes. What should she do? Just give up yet again or continue on until the completion of her goal?
JaJuan "Night" Simmons is a dream. He has the body of a god with the personality to go with it. Night takes health very seriously and being a personal trainer helps him maintain that beautiful body of his. When Night decides to open a gym he is looking for a certain type of clientele but how can he attain that when what he is looking for is intimated by the very thing that he is so passionate about?
Body By Night is not at all what I imagined it would be and for that I am pleased. This book is refreshing. It gives a look at the possibility of friendship and love from the old saying opposites attract. This story flows and you remain interested in the lives of the characters and you don't want to put the book down or the story to end. It is well written and once again Zuri Day does not disappoint. Complete, energetic, exciting, loving, passionate, sad, pleasant and genuine are just some of the words that can be used to describe this story. Trust me you will not be disappointed.
September 19, 2015
Sister's it is more than a notion when we try to take back control of our lives. Funny thing is at the very moment we plan it out God laughs at out planning and His Spirit jumps right on in showing us who truly is in control. Try as she might D'Andra Smalls manages to work on losing weight because she has truly had enough. But what I love about this sister, she wasn't interested in leaving her dysfunctional family members behind she shared the knowledge as she learned it. As tired as she was of her domineering family she love them.
As fate would have it D'Andra bumps smack dead into the next chapter of her life. Remember I said the Spirit jumps right in well that He did. Now D'Andra is not only dealing with he question is can she manage both or remain true to SELF?
Day has really covered several topics dear to me with this title; body image, family dynamics, suppressing personal desires and romantic ones and a journey to wellness. So many thoughts about my own life after turning the last page; one I will leave with you is do we have to sacrifice oneself for love? What did D'Andra do, check out the title.
Outstanding read!!!
As fate would have it D'Andra bumps smack dead into the next chapter of her life. Remember I said the Spirit jumps right in well that He did. Now D'Andra is not only dealing with he question is can she manage both or remain true to SELF?
Day has really covered several topics dear to me with this title; body image, family dynamics, suppressing personal desires and romantic ones and a journey to wellness. So many thoughts about my own life after turning the last page; one I will leave with you is do we have to sacrifice oneself for love? What did D'Andra do, check out the title.
Outstanding read!!!
January 2, 2016
Just right for me
What's a girl to do when a handsome fit guy hears your inner battle spoken out loud about NOT going into the gym and he responds? You get out the car and go with him. After a health scare D'Andra is determined to be healthy and get fit and who better to help her than Night a personal trainer. Night and D'Andra's chemistry grows as they work together to help her meet her goal to get fit and his goal of opening his own gym. As they go through the process they encourage and build each other until the unthinkable is revealed and their love is tested. This story was so encouraging and refreshing. The heroine is not your typical character as she's overweight and her self-esteem is not the best. We don't just watch D'Andra loose weight but we watch her change her lifestyle and build her confidence all while having a sexy man by her side. Night's compassion to see others fit only fuels as he watches her change right before his eyes. That alone with him learning that love comes in all sizes makes for a very beautiful Night. This was my first read from this author and it won't be my last.
What's a girl to do when a handsome fit guy hears your inner battle spoken out loud about NOT going into the gym and he responds? You get out the car and go with him. After a health scare D'Andra is determined to be healthy and get fit and who better to help her than Night a personal trainer. Night and D'Andra's chemistry grows as they work together to help her meet her goal to get fit and his goal of opening his own gym. As they go through the process they encourage and build each other until the unthinkable is revealed and their love is tested. This story was so encouraging and refreshing. The heroine is not your typical character as she's overweight and her self-esteem is not the best. We don't just watch D'Andra loose weight but we watch her change her lifestyle and build her confidence all while having a sexy man by her side. Night's compassion to see others fit only fuels as he watches her change right before his eyes. That alone with him learning that love comes in all sizes makes for a very beautiful Night. This was my first read from this author and it won't be my last.
July 11, 2014
This girl sure has serious family drama in big spades. Her momma needs an ass whippin and her sister needs to be strung up and educated in more things than sex.
Night is a very odd name for a black man in today's world. But this man has turned a nickname from the streets into a future legacy for himself.
D'Andra has been the brunt of many a jokes, snide comments, and more for as long as she can remember. This bbbw (big, bold, beautiful, woman) has a heart of gold and is a determined to make healthy choice for herself in every aspect of her life.
Along the way she finds love of herself, self respect, and a great appreciation for the new direction her life is taking.
Night is a very odd name for a black man in today's world. But this man has turned a nickname from the streets into a future legacy for himself.
D'Andra has been the brunt of many a jokes, snide comments, and more for as long as she can remember. This bbbw (big, bold, beautiful, woman) has a heart of gold and is a determined to make healthy choice for herself in every aspect of her life.
Along the way she finds love of herself, self respect, and a great appreciation for the new direction her life is taking.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews