In The Lonely Hour

by B. Love

Based on family tradition, Layla and Carlos married right after high school. They both wanted to live a life of travel, luxury, and independence. Neither wanted children, but when Layla found out she was pregnant, her desires changed. Unfortunately, Carlos’ plans didn’t, and the birth of their daughter, Dior, put a major strain on their marriage.When Dior decides she wants to make a friend when she starts high school, Layla enlists the help of Andres Martin—a well-known advocate and aide for children and teenagers struggling with Autism on any part of the spectrum. Technically separated, Carlos uses this as an opportunity to permanently remove himself from Layla and Dior’s lives, however, he doesn’t plan on the jealousy he feels watching his family be helped and led by another man.Andres makes it his mission to not only help provide structure and support for Dior, but he also reminds Layla that she’s not just a mother, she’s a woman too. A woman whose need for love, affection, validation, and security has been unmet. As Layla finally accepts divorce as their only option, Carlos decides he’s ready to fight for her. Will she give her husband a second chance or accept the love Andres provided during her loneliest hour?

113 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 1, 2021

About the author

Voted AAMBC's 2018 Romance author of the year, Master storyteller B. Love is the unparalleled self-love teacher. As the powerhouse for modern-day womanhood, she pens contagious content that encourages readers to internalize admiration and intimacy. She allows her most powerful vessel to guide her stories, wholly.
Since age 12, Love has been spreading self-awareness, care, and appreciation. For over six years, Love has authored over 40 publications centered around heart-piercing, reverence-worthy romance. Her novels not only entertain but challenge the audience to explore love. With a keen eye for passion, desire and dynamism she includes heuristic methods in her beautifully curated accounts of life.
B. Love’s entire persona is spearheaded by her incredible infatuation with the power of love. Contained within each novel, is an edification created for the glorification of self. Her pen bleeds for the souls who need just an inkling of empowerment. Each story is written with the intent to enlighten, engross and enkindle the passion in whoever picks up her book.

Reviews

[Warda · Rating 4 out of 5]

So, I’m giving this 4-star rating because feelings got involved but really, it’s a 3-star rating.

Hear me out.

This story was quite a unique one. We are dealing with a mother who has a child that’s on the spectrum and has joined an organisation that has been established specifically to help out parents that have autistic children.
The person who runs that organisation is none other than our gorgeous hero (alongside his parents).

Not only is our heroine striving to be the best parent she can be, her personal life is shambolic.
The man that has the nerve to call himself a husband/father was an absolute waste of a soul. He’s a cheater, he plays at being a man and neither is he wanting to understand his own child.
The way he tried to manipulate and control our heroine had me raging. His carelessness, the way his ego inserted itself into every situation… I was seeing red.

And it’s not till the hero comes into her life, that things feel calm for the heroine and her daughter. They found safety with him.
Naturally, her ‘husband’ is going to be causing problems.

Now, from this you’d have gathered that this story is dealing with a lot. A lot of messiness and drama that isn’t unwarranted and is life.

So, the novella would’ve benefitted massively had it been longer! I needed more time for the romance, for the drama to unfold and for it to be explored.

There were some amazing elements to this story. I loved the idea behind it. I love how devoted of a mother the heroine was to her daughter, how she ensured that her child received the care she needed.
The romance was the sweetest thing. The hero was exactly who the heroine needed. The way he was there for her? 🥹 and the way he was there for her daughter?? 🥹🥹🥹

Melt me into a puddle, please.

Anyway, I felt really strongly about parts of this story, in a good way. I just wish it had been longer.

*Trigger warnings for loss of a child, spousal abuse, cheating*

[Annette Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hold me back! Nah! Seriously, hold me back because I wanna whoop Carlos’ azz like I’m a 6’3 250 pound man. In several of my reviews, I’ve often said how some of these male characters have Ken level audacity. But, this ninja here?!!! Carols’ audacious azz just robbed the bank and stole all the audacity from all the characters. Male and female! Sir, how you gon’ cheat on your wife for 13 years with multiple women, leave your wife and autistic daughter for your special side piece, and propose to your side piece the same night you walked out on your family?!!! Then, you have the unmitigated audacity to act like a jealous shrew when another man picks up the bag you fumbled?!!! If I don’t want you but, I don’t want no one else to have you was a person, it would definitely be Carlos Benson. Insert his ugly azz picture right here. Lawd, this man has pissed me off so bad, he made me get ahead of myself. Let me go back a little and give y’all some background.

Layla and Carlos got married right out of high. The plan was to become a power couple who lived a life of luxury and travel around the world at a moments notice. Children did not factor into the lifestyle they wanted to live. So, to make this dream a reality, they both agreed no kids. Well, those plans changed when Layla got pregnant two years into their marriage. Not only did she get pregnant but, she gave birth to a special needs baby who was on the spectrum. This did not sit well with Carlos. When he said he didn’t want kids, he meant that and continued to live his life as if he didn’t have a wife and baby at home. For 13 years, Layla devoted all of her time and energy being mama and daddy to Dior while Carlos lived his life as single man. He comes and goes as he pleases all the while ignoring his daughter’s existence. Dior is getting ready to enter high school and Layla wants to do everything she can to make this transition as seamless as possible. Enter Andres Martin.

Andres is an advocate for children with Autism and he steps in to give Layla some much needed help. Not only was there an instant attraction between these two, there was also an immediate bond between him and Dior. This, too, did not sit well with Carlos. Now, keep in mind, this dude completely disregarded his wife and child for 13 years but, when Layla finally starts to put herself first and move on from Carlos, it’s a problem. Never mind the fact this man has a whole fiancé he’s living with. Typical narcissist behavior. Carlos kept up more shyt and drama than a woman but, I was here for all his messy antics. In The Lonely Hour was truly a heartfelt read. The author did a great job spotlighting the ins and outs of raising a special needs child. I absolutely adored Layla’s love and devotion for Dior and how she always made her a priority regardless of what was going on. But, I have to give it to Carlos. He was the perfect villain for this story. Honestly, he stood out more than Layla and Andres. He played his role with absolute perfection and deserved an Oscar. Carlos is definitely the villain you will love to hate.

[*Ebony I* · Rating 4 out of 5]

A giving love

Layla had been married to Carlos for years. They started off as a driven power couple that planned on travelling and conquering the world together. Their dreams didn't involve children until they were unexpectedly blessed with Dior. Sweet Dior was autistic and Layla made it her duty to care for her. Layla and Carlos grew distant and although he provided for them he was seemingly unemotionally connected to either of them. When Carlos decides to leave his family to pursue a new relationship, Layla finds refuge in a support group for parents with autistic children. From there she meets and connects w Andres.

Andres is immediately attracted to Layla. He is keen on making sure that she gets the best help for her daughter. Andres quickly befriends Dior. It's clear that she trusts and prefers his presence over Carlos'. Andres moved with intentions by making sure both Layla and Dior felt safe, protected, and cared for. As they began to flourish the f boy of the year, the so called husband decides to cause unnecessary issues.

I felt like the overall way the story connected could have been stronger. However, the plot was different enough to keep me engaged.

[Shameka Erby · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 rounded to 4...

Layla needed peace. In a failing marriage, raising an autistic daughter with no real help from her husband, she was flailing, needing help but refusing to ask for it. A very protective mother, she finally decided to lower her guard and ask for help when her husband bails completely and her daughter wants high school to be her social launch. In comes Andres, with exactly what she needs at exactly the right time...

This story was an emotional one for me. I wanted to feel more for Layla--I found myself more frustrated with her than anything. Her narrative framed her thoughts like Carlos (the husband) was giving her something to believe in, and hold on to. But as soon as he wants to leave, you realize the writing's been on the wall and Layla was just refusing to read it. I liked that she finally used her resources to their full potential. It was the best thing for Dior, and for her. Dior was so sweet. I loved the patience the author took in writing about her autism, and her strides. It was respectfully done, imo. Layla's continual denial of the things SHE needed tore at my heart, because it was relatable. Most parents don't see that their children's comfort and happiness is directly tied to theirs. Andres was kind, and that was what I loved most about him. A kind man who thought over all his options, and even made provisions for pursuing a personal relationship with Layla. His dramatic entry into the story seemed a little out of place and threw me once I got in deeper. But I loved him and Layla together. He was a soft place to land.

The ending piece tried to give the story a slight love triangle framing, which I neither understood or enjoyed. But I loved Layla being honest about her feelings, and Dior fighting for her peace in her own way. Good book.

[Shaunrick McGee · Rating 5 out of 5]

B. Love has done it again! I downloaded this book without knowing what it was about, but as a fan, I trusted that the author would not disappoint. Layla, like a lot of moms, let everything fall to the side for the sake of caring for and protecting her child. It is sad that a person can share so much with someone else and still feel lonely. Dre was the epitome of the educated, protective, alpha male. He was so dedicated to what was best for Dior, that Layla couldn’t help but fall for him. Carlos definitely got off easy with his sorry self. Ironically, I have a cousin in law named Dre who is committed to autism awareness. Learn more about him and his son’s story by tapping into Billy’s Journey on FB or Instagram.
https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/bill...
https://www.instagram.com/billysjourn...

[Toya Davis-Stokley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had to take a moment to gather my emotions, before writing this review. Layla, wanted to do and be everything for her daughter. The love and devotion that she gave her was a beautiful thing. But, that damn Carlos! 😡 Can we just throw him away, or call some of them peoples to do what they do? 😂 The utter disregard for Layla, and Dior was just disgusting! Anywho, Dior was such a bright girl who just needed love and support to thrive. Then enter Andres! The man that everyone calls on to help families and children with autism. There was an instant spark between he and Layla, and he knew he wanted to do everything that he could to help them. Andreas easily was able to bond with Dior, and helped Layla be comfortable with accepting help, as she was not used to that. They quickly felt like a family, and love was brewing for both Andreas and Layla. This was a beautiful read. I hope that we get to see a follow-up on them soon. Great job! 👍👍👍

[Dee Cherry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful story

[Charm 🌻 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sooooo sweet. I could have continued reading their story

[Mrs. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well done

The story and the content were well done. The attention to detail and the focus were excellent. The Autism focus in the story was respectfully dealt with throughout the range. Let me say this, Carlos was The biggest Jack@$$ I have ever met as a bad father figure. His daughter, Dior, deserved better. Everything was about him. Layla allowed JA free reign in their marriage. She was a different woman from me. Andres was a breath of fresh air in this story. He exuded the real man syndrome Carlos lacked. He would prove to be just what Layla and Dior needed-Peace.

[tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!

It was refreshingly different. I work with students that have Autism(not Autistic students- the disorder is only a part of who they are which is why it’s no longer politically correct to say “ She’s Autistic”) and it was nice to see the subject handled in such a respectful way. I would love to see more stories where people with disabilities are a subject. It’s sort of like putting the candy in the medicine. More people being familiar and educated with disabilities will take the fear and awkwardness out of interacting with them and also, allow them to notice their similarities instead focusing on and sometimes freaking out about their differences. The love story was also awesome. “Dre” was an alpha male who know led with confidence and compassion. I fell in love with his character immediately. I wish we could have learned what happened to Carlos as a result of his actions. Why wasn’t he in jail? Did he get probation because it’s no way that in real life no charges were brought. It’s mandatory now isn’t it? That was such a big scene but the wrap up explanation was disproportionate.
.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Layla and Carlos married at a young age, right out of high school. They dreamed of traveling the world and had no plans for children. Layla found out she was pregnant and she was happy, but Carlos was not happy about the pregnancy. Layla gave birth to a little girl and she named her Dior. Dior an autistic child that needed a ton of attention. Layla devoted all of her time and energy to Dior. Carlos did not spend time with his child and began to live like a man without a family. Dior is in the process of entering high school and wants to have a friend in school. Layla seeks the help of Andres, an awesome advocate and aide for children with Autism. Carlos decides to walk away from his family. Once Andres comes into Dior and Layla’s life Carlos becomes jealous and wants his family back. Dior wants nothing to do with her father, she only feels safe with Andres. I have a bonus grandson on the Spectrum and this book was a blessing to read. The only difference is my son in love stayed and my bonus grandson mom walked away from them. Awesome read, we need more on Layla, Dior and Andres.

[Treasure · Rating 4 out of 5]

An educational and heartwarming story about a mother who has dedicated her time and love to her autistic daughter and somehow neglected her married in the process.

She has been with her husband since college but when an unexpected pregnancy revealed itself early in the marriage the priorities changed.

After reading the story, I appreciate families and care givers of autistic individuals.

Layla the mother and main care giver, eventually finds an aide who also become her love interest. He reminds her to love herself and help her daughter Dior become more independent.

I would highly recommend you reading this story, if you want to be further informed.

This story is beautifully written and doesn’t dwell on the negativities rather the development and progress of Dior in the two different environments she finds herself.

[Mrs Tee Booktique · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seek peace!

Misery embraces loneliness. The sacrifices a parent makes for their child should end with abuse...but it doesn't. Layla is a testimony for a majority of mothers, not only the ones who are caregivers for a child with a disability or special need. Her story enveloped me and reminded that my decision to choose me was the most SELFish self care I've done for myself and I'm proud of me for choosing me. Whenever you stay "for the kids" it does not benefit or fit the needs of the kids. Andres was a gift for her dedication to a marriage that she waa released from years ago. I absolutely loved this story and am ready to put hands on Carlos! 😀😁😂😁 oh hung and it was HOTTTTT LIKE FIRE!!!!

[Lady · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emotional

The storyline was great, however the female main character, Layla, cried damn near every other page it seems. I get it, however it became too much when reading. The silent 'S' of Andres' name was a bit distracting also. Unless it's pronounced a different way (which the author didn't get into because it had nothing to do with the storyline), adding it was unnecessary.

If nothing else is taken from this story, ladies, ALWAYS make sure you have your own. Even if you are a SAHM, pay yourself first! ALWAYS look out for YOU! Never put yourself in a position that'll possibly leave you stuck because you don't have a plan or the funds to make other arrangements. OR, your outcome is dependent on the decision of another.

4.5 Stars

[jebetkc · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.4⭐️

Now lets get this out of the way and off my chest, imo, Carlos needed at LEAST TWO LETHAL beatings for him to have gotten off like that🤚🏽Ngl, without those i feel like he got away too easily🤷🏽‍♀️🤷🏽‍♀️

Now, ummm lets talk about the ”reconciliation” if i may🤦🏽‍♀️ Lordt i wanted to slap Layla, just a bit to wake her up because sis no🤚🏽 idc if it was a day or a week that they got back together, that shit needed to stay where it was at and F*CK Carlos(disrespectfully)😒🙄 (im realising this is why i feel like he got away with it a bit too easily for me🤷🏽‍♀️)

Loved me some Andres and dior, together i was just on the verge of tears🥹🤚🏽
I love how Andres came and showed Layla what she was missing🤭🫶🏽

[Timmalynn Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holding On And Letting Go

This book was written so well, I almost forgot it was fiction. The storyline was executed with sheer excellence. I'm always amazed by this author's research into the topics she chooses to write about. I was drawn into the lives of the characters and the struggles they had to face. There really is nothing greater than the love and protection of a mother. Layla willingly traded her happiness for the security of her daughter... and she was rewarded greatly! We all have to remember that if we are to be the best versions of ourselves, we must begin with self-care. I would love to see how things progress and blossom for this "family".

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting read

This was a good book. I enjoyed the characters, though Carlos made me want to punch him.

Now B. Love, why the tease?!?! This should have been a full lengthy novel....at least 150 more pages. I enjoyed that this wasn't your usual love story. I would love to see the love between Layla and Andres and Dior more. I even want to see Carlos regret everything he did and how the other chick taking it - he doesn't deserve a happy ending. Anywho I enjoyed this a whole lot.

[T K Vaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joy Coming After the Loneliness

There was ABSOLUTELY NOTHING to not love about this story!!!…It’s crazy how easy it is to judge another situation until we can see ourselves n that same seat!!!…A loveless marriage, one of settling and accepting what the other partner does just to make it look healthy on the inside!!!…
I was soooo happy that Andres was there to see Dior excel and show Layla everything she knew she needed and missed!!!…
I cried when I seen her heart breaking and I laughed when I seen the power she took back to make decisions for her and her daughter!!!…

[Eat. Sleep. Read. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dior is the Real MVP!

🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆
When Dior chucked the ✌🏽 and dipped was my favorite part! 😂 Lil Mama knew how to get where she'd be protected and wanted!

Lay & Dre's love was organic and sweet. Carlos deserves no mention, and women like Jasmine are the worst.

A few editing issues in the beginning, but not enough to take anything away from an overall perfectly paced, short, steamy love story.

[Camisha Crisp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written

I truly enjoyed this story! I love the topic of raising children with special needs and how so many women will try to do it all on their own like Layla. They are too ashamed or afraid to ask for help. Andres helping Layla and Dior was beautiful. Watching Layla and Dior both blossom was heartwarming. This was a different story for B. Love, and I loved it !!

[Shajuana McDuffy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Big Ball of Tears!!!!!!

That's what I was while reading this book...a big ball of tears. This book was amazing! I felt every emotion. I felt the hurt, the happiness, the anger, the frustration, the love. I mean I felt it all. Andres' had me like, "Ready or not, bere i come. You can't hide. I gotta find you and make you want me." 😂 I love Dior. She was so sweet. Just get the book. You won't be disappointed. You may want to kick somebody's tale like I did, though. Great read!

[Rhonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was great

I loved this story. Andres is definitely any woman’s dream come true. The way he loved Dior and Layla was nothing short of amazing. My heart went out to Layla she was the definition of a strong queen. Carlos was something else I knew he was doing something underhanded when he asked for her phone. Im just so glad that everything worked out for them they deserved one another. This was a great love story. 💙💙💙💙💙⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Angelina Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lonely no more

I've read several of B.Loves books and they all hit me differently. This story hit so many different emotions. Dress and Laylas relationship had ma y highs and her jerk of a husband tried but failed. When it's over it's over. Even though Dior had Aspergers she still was in tune with everything. Love the fact that no matter what Dior's stability and happiness came first and foremost. Great read

[angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sexy and sweet

Carlos who? It was good from beginning to end. It wasnt dragged, rushed or made you want more. It came to a neatly wrapped end. I am tired of reading the good girl love bad hood boy books because the black on black violence is just too much to read in my leisure and worry about whats going on in the real world. but I still wanted the steamy. This book brough it. Highly recommend.

[T G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written ❤️❤️

This was a wonderful story just beautiful. Layla is a devoted mother who would do anything for her child. Unfortunately, her husband doesn't feel the same way. Andres's family does whatever it can to help families and this is just what Layla needs.
To watch the relationship grow between Andres and Layla to see her gain her confidence and come out of her shell is wonderful. Always a pleasure reading your books 🥰.

[readingsprints_and_chaisips · Rating 4 out of 5]

Andres & Layla❤️ (4.5⭐️)

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I read it in a day. I believe it represented Asperger’s syndrome with so much care and love. And I love that this story nuances that when a woman comes with a child and she likes you, if that child likes you and you show them grace, patience, care, love, compassion and understanding that woman’s care for you will multiply.

All I’m going to say is Carlos and Jasmine can go to 🔥! Together. Holding hands. Drenched in ⛽️.

Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️

[Miriam Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Children and Animals are Great Judges of Character

Andres & Layla deserved what each one of them brought to the table. Both of them had been in toxic relationships too long.
Carlos was a horrible father and husband.
B. Love is a writer of believable and relatable characters and topics.
In the Lonely Hour touches on topics that touch the heart. This is a must read.

[Lacie · Rating 5 out of 5]

wonderful read

Once again B. Love has written an excellent book. I always love to read about the growth and empowerment of her female characters. God put people in your life when you need it. And it will be right on time for you to see it. Andres came in Layla’s and Dior’s life right on time. This was a wonderful read.

[Micaiah · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved

I loved Layla and Andres. They met by happenstance but Andres was everything Layla and Dior didn’t know they needed. The way he showed up and showed out for them was heartwarming. People will only do what you allow and it often times is not what one deserves. When a woman’s fed up, there’s nothing you can do about it. Another great black love story.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read

This was a good read. I loved Dre and his kind ways. Carlos was a real piece of crap. He really deserved a beat down.😤😩🙄. He sucked as a man, husband and father🙄. Dior was the sweetest thing ever. Loved her❤️❤️. Layla was a great mom. She did everything for her child. Thank God her and Dre got their happy ending. I enjoyed this book. I recommend it🥳🥳