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White Boyfriend
If you can’t love yourself, how are you going to love anybody else? A sweet, funny, feel-good page-turner about getting your groove back.
Nikki has it all—a great career, a gorgeous apartment and a boyfriend who is basically perfect. Okay, maybe things have grown a little too comfortable… but Nikki can handle it if it means keeping hot and wholesome Bron in her life.
Then the unthinkable happens and Bron walks out, leaving Nikki feeling like a total failure. They were supposed to have marriage and babies… but instead she’s got a guilty conscience, pissed-off parents who just want her to win him back and the realization that without “Nikki-and-Bron” to hide behind, she has no idea who she really is.
Desperate to pull her out of her slump, best friends Alicia and Chay embark on a mission to help Nikki find Nikki again… by tossing her straight back into the dating pool. There she meets Mike – sweet, laid-back and the first white guy she’s ever been with. There’s no doubt there’s some serious chemistry between them, but is becoming part of Mike’s world taking Nikki even further away from herself?
Then Bron unexpectedly comes knocking, just as things are getting serious with Mike, and the rule book goes right out the window…
This feel-good read about finding yourself is perfect for fans of How to Be Single, Just the Way I Am and Spoiler Alert.
Nikki has it all—a great career, a gorgeous apartment and a boyfriend who is basically perfect. Okay, maybe things have grown a little too comfortable… but Nikki can handle it if it means keeping hot and wholesome Bron in her life.
Then the unthinkable happens and Bron walks out, leaving Nikki feeling like a total failure. They were supposed to have marriage and babies… but instead she’s got a guilty conscience, pissed-off parents who just want her to win him back and the realization that without “Nikki-and-Bron” to hide behind, she has no idea who she really is.
Desperate to pull her out of her slump, best friends Alicia and Chay embark on a mission to help Nikki find Nikki again… by tossing her straight back into the dating pool. There she meets Mike – sweet, laid-back and the first white guy she’s ever been with. There’s no doubt there’s some serious chemistry between them, but is becoming part of Mike’s world taking Nikki even further away from herself?
Then Bron unexpectedly comes knocking, just as things are getting serious with Mike, and the rule book goes right out the window…
This feel-good read about finding yourself is perfect for fans of How to Be Single, Just the Way I Am and Spoiler Alert.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 10, 2022
82 people are currently reading
130 people want to read
About the author
LeeSha McCoy
70 books224 followersMother. Author. Wellness Blogger.
Lover of Music. Believer of Romance. Dirty Minded.
LeeSha McCoy is the author of all things African American Romance. She released her first book in 2012 and currently writes African American Urban Romance, Paranormal, Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Romantic Comedy, and Steamy Contemporary Romance under the pen name Karmen Kane.
With over 40 books published to date, representation is important to her, so you will always find positive representations of black men and women in her books, with a focus on family bonds, growth, and above all, strong fiery heroines and the heroes that love the hell out of them for it.
Writing novels that make her readers 'feel' is her mission; she does not just write stories to be read, but for her readers to experience. As someone who has lived through many up and downs in her personal life, she uses those experiences in all of her stories, priding herself on the realism in her work, regardless of genre.
She began writing in the late 90's, although it was mostly song lyrics she wrote to escape her loneliness. As one of only a handful of bi-racial children living in her small hometown of Banbury, she struggled to make friends and to be accepted, so she spent most of her childhood alone.
She currently lives in England, but her family is spread all across the United States, including the states of Baltimore, Colorado, and Texas.
As a mother to four beautiful children, she spends her spare time playing Roblox and finding new places to walk with them, helping others discover self-love through her wellness blog, binge reading dirty romances, or watching food review shows on YouTube.
Find her on...
https://linktr.ee/Leeshamccoy
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/leeshamccoy.7
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/leeshamccoy...
Twitter - https://twitter.com/LeeshaMcCoy
BookBub - https://www.bookbub.com/authors/leesh...
Radish Fiction, iReader & Clubhouse.
Lover of Music. Believer of Romance. Dirty Minded.
LeeSha McCoy is the author of all things African American Romance. She released her first book in 2012 and currently writes African American Urban Romance, Paranormal, Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Romantic Comedy, and Steamy Contemporary Romance under the pen name Karmen Kane.
With over 40 books published to date, representation is important to her, so you will always find positive representations of black men and women in her books, with a focus on family bonds, growth, and above all, strong fiery heroines and the heroes that love the hell out of them for it.
Writing novels that make her readers 'feel' is her mission; she does not just write stories to be read, but for her readers to experience. As someone who has lived through many up and downs in her personal life, she uses those experiences in all of her stories, priding herself on the realism in her work, regardless of genre.
She began writing in the late 90's, although it was mostly song lyrics she wrote to escape her loneliness. As one of only a handful of bi-racial children living in her small hometown of Banbury, she struggled to make friends and to be accepted, so she spent most of her childhood alone.
She currently lives in England, but her family is spread all across the United States, including the states of Baltimore, Colorado, and Texas.
As a mother to four beautiful children, she spends her spare time playing Roblox and finding new places to walk with them, helping others discover self-love through her wellness blog, binge reading dirty romances, or watching food review shows on YouTube.
Find her on...
https://linktr.ee/Leeshamccoy
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/leeshamccoy.7
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/leeshamccoy...
Twitter - https://twitter.com/LeeshaMcCoy
BookBub - https://www.bookbub.com/authors/leesh...
Radish Fiction, iReader & Clubhouse.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
February 13, 2022
I’m really sorry to say that I didn’t enjoy this one. In my opinion it is unfair to the author to imply in the marketing that this is a romance novel with similarities to Talia Hibbert and The Hating Game, since I don’t think it has any similarities to THG at all and the only similarity I could see with Talia Hibbert’s work is that the main character is a black woman, but this feels like a flimsy reason to compare the two. I also honestly wouldn’t really consider this to be a romance, it is solidly a women’s fiction book about a woman learning to be herself and enjoy life with the support of her friends. This is totally fine, but I think it’s important that this clarification is made to temper reader’s expectations. I saw another reviewer suggest that the title is misleading in this respect and I agree.
I didn’t mind the main character of Nikki, although I must say I found her narration a bit boring. At times it felt as though I was reading a list of everything she did that day without me learning anything about her as a character. My main qualm however is that I felt her and Mike had no chemistry, and I actually felt totally misled by the character of Mike. The book description calls him “dorky” but he actually gave me nice-guy/soft-boi/flakey-hippy-who-uses-being-a-free-spirit-as-an-excuse-for-being-a-jerk energy and I was not a fan in the slightest. I’m generally not into self-help books and the like, and I think that Mike’s association with this very specific brand of ‘wellness’ tainted the character for me.
I also found the book’s treatment of sex very odd - sex/masturbation/sex toys are discussed frequently by Nikki and her friends (which is great! I love healthy female friendships where sex can be talked about!), yet when Nikki and Mike get together, all the bedroom scenes are fade-to-black. This is obviously fine and I know that some people don’t want ‘steaminess’ in the books they read, but I just found it to be inconsistent with the frequency sex was mentioned in other scenarios in the book! Also, this was another point which made me think the comparison to Talia Hibbert and THG was misleading.
I have added a star because I think there is value in the discussions of black women’s hesitancy of entering interracial relationships, and the stigma which still exists today. I also thought the portrayal of female friendship was pretty good (though I did find her friends to be pretty grating at times lol).
Honestly I could probably pick apart stuff I didn’t like about this book all day but I don’t want to be cruel so I’ll leave it here. I’m sure this book will be some people’s cup of tea but it’s just not for me!
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for letting me read an e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
EDIT 13/2/22: I am aware that apparently the publishers and author have amended the book based on some of the feedback from reviews which is great, however I'm not going to re-read it but I just thought I'd mention this for the sake of transparency.
I didn’t mind the main character of Nikki, although I must say I found her narration a bit boring. At times it felt as though I was reading a list of everything she did that day without me learning anything about her as a character. My main qualm however is that I felt her and Mike had no chemistry, and I actually felt totally misled by the character of Mike. The book description calls him “dorky” but he actually gave me nice-guy/soft-boi/flakey-hippy-who-uses-being-a-free-spirit-as-an-excuse-for-being-a-jerk energy and I was not a fan in the slightest. I’m generally not into self-help books and the like, and I think that Mike’s association with this very specific brand of ‘wellness’ tainted the character for me.
I also found the book’s treatment of sex very odd - sex/masturbation/sex toys are discussed frequently by Nikki and her friends (which is great! I love healthy female friendships where sex can be talked about!), yet when Nikki and Mike get together, all the bedroom scenes are fade-to-black. This is obviously fine and I know that some people don’t want ‘steaminess’ in the books they read, but I just found it to be inconsistent with the frequency sex was mentioned in other scenarios in the book! Also, this was another point which made me think the comparison to Talia Hibbert and THG was misleading.
I have added a star because I think there is value in the discussions of black women’s hesitancy of entering interracial relationships, and the stigma which still exists today. I also thought the portrayal of female friendship was pretty good (though I did find her friends to be pretty grating at times lol).
Honestly I could probably pick apart stuff I didn’t like about this book all day but I don’t want to be cruel so I’ll leave it here. I’m sure this book will be some people’s cup of tea but it’s just not for me!
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for letting me read an e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
EDIT 13/2/22: I am aware that apparently the publishers and author have amended the book based on some of the feedback from reviews which is great, however I'm not going to re-read it but I just thought I'd mention this for the sake of transparency.
March 11, 2022
Oh god, it's sucks when I dislike a book.
first of all I have to say one thing I really liked about this book was Nikkie's relationship with her friends and the support they gave her. Also loved the self developments Nikkie achieved during the story. It was powerful and inspiring.
but...
I think the title and the description is a bet misleading, this is not a rom-com, it's a women fiction about a woman in her journey of finding her self and enjoying life. I felt absolutely no chemistry between the main character and the male character, Mike. It felt weird and forced. and Mike himself... yeah I didn't like him.
one other thing that I had a kinda problem with was the constant discussion about sex and sex toys between the main character and her friends. It was odd and TOO much! on the other hand, on the sex scenes everything just faded and went black. I mean, balance! and I saw a few reviewers who had the same problem with it
also I didn't really like the ending. everything was aiming for a good ending and then, I just don't know what happened.
thanks to NetGallery for providing my copy.
this review will be published on NetGallery and Goodreads.
first of all I have to say one thing I really liked about this book was Nikkie's relationship with her friends and the support they gave her. Also loved the self developments Nikkie achieved during the story. It was powerful and inspiring.
but...
I think the title and the description is a bet misleading, this is not a rom-com, it's a women fiction about a woman in her journey of finding her self and enjoying life. I felt absolutely no chemistry between the main character and the male character, Mike. It felt weird and forced. and Mike himself... yeah I didn't like him.
one other thing that I had a kinda problem with was the constant discussion about sex and sex toys between the main character and her friends. It was odd and TOO much! on the other hand, on the sex scenes everything just faded and went black. I mean, balance! and I saw a few reviewers who had the same problem with it
also I didn't really like the ending. everything was aiming for a good ending and then, I just don't know what happened.
thanks to NetGallery for providing my copy.
this review will be published on NetGallery and Goodreads.
March 11, 2022
This book started out well and then it kind of plateaued for me. You'd think by the title alone, the book would be mostly about a black woman adjusting to/navigating a relationship with a white man, and whilst that featured, it was more of a side plot that wasn't explored too deep. What we are actually getting is story of our main character's journey to self-discovery post break-up. I'm not mad at it though, I just would have liked to see more of an exploration of Nikki and Mike's interracial relationship seeing as the title is putting emphasis on said boyfriend being white.
I liked seeing the relationship between Nikki and her family and friends. Her dad was infuriating (which I actually found entertaining) but there are many dads/parents out there like that, especially in church, so I'm really not surprised by his problematic behaviour. Nikki's friends were a fun and loyal bunch and their presence brought some good entertainment.
Overall, it was a thoughtful read. Many will relate to Nikki's challenges and could find some encouragement for themselves.
*thanks to Netgalley for the audiobook arc*
I liked seeing the relationship between Nikki and her family and friends. Her dad was infuriating (which I actually found entertaining) but there are many dads/parents out there like that, especially in church, so I'm really not surprised by his problematic behaviour. Nikki's friends were a fun and loyal bunch and their presence brought some good entertainment.
Overall, it was a thoughtful read. Many will relate to Nikki's challenges and could find some encouragement for themselves.
*thanks to Netgalley for the audiobook arc*
March 10, 2022
I can really relate to Nikki because I was her years ago. Always seeking parental approval until I had enough and stood up for myself.
I loved her friendship with her girls — it was refreshing to see a group of young women supporting each other.
There's no need to write a long review for this, but if you love
1. Relatable character
2. Real-life issues
3. Friendships
4. A story of finding yourself
Then this is for you.
I loved her friendship with her girls — it was refreshing to see a group of young women supporting each other.
There's no need to write a long review for this, but if you love
1. Relatable character
2. Real-life issues
3. Friendships
4. A story of finding yourself
Then this is for you.
February 14, 2022
I was intending on giving this a three at the least because there were some pluses however that ending dropped it down to a two for sure.
The ending was abrupt and unnecessary, considering the characters and the development throughout the book, that ending seemed out of the blue. I can get an ending like this for a women's fiction but not a romance not without some in-depth look the MC past, present, and future.
I liked Niki as a whole and her goals to change her life. I appreciated the changes and growth she had throughout this story. The male MC Mike was underdeveloped - like we found out about his past and his family lives however what did he do for a living - never really explained -his philosophy on life was a little wishy-washy if you ask me. I mean, he's a free spirit who makes no plans but runs an unknown stock exchange business - doesn't match to me.
I feel like the conflict between the two main characters could have been an issue had it had more legs to stand on. I feel like it came out of nowhere near the end to have a conflict to justify that ending.
The amount of time the characters say "sis and make it make sense was overkill. Niki's friends were a delight, loved the dynamics and the love they shared.
All in all the ending disappointed me - with a new ending and a little more development of the characters' stories and conflicts this could have been a great book.
I've edited my original review due to the added epilogue... And the reason I upgraded to a three star is that the ending was no long unfinished, however i truly believe this should be a fiction and not a romance. This is a story of Niki journey to true independence, to truly trusting herself. The Romance is clearly not the point of this story,, so my change in rating also took into account that this story is truly a fiction.
Edited..
“I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.”
The ending was abrupt and unnecessary, considering the characters and the development throughout the book, that ending seemed out of the blue. I can get an ending like this for a women's fiction but not a romance not without some in-depth look the MC past, present, and future.
I liked Niki as a whole and her goals to change her life. I appreciated the changes and growth she had throughout this story. The male MC Mike was underdeveloped - like we found out about his past and his family lives however what did he do for a living - never really explained -his philosophy on life was a little wishy-washy if you ask me. I mean, he's a free spirit who makes no plans but runs an unknown stock exchange business - doesn't match to me.
I feel like the conflict between the two main characters could have been an issue had it had more legs to stand on. I feel like it came out of nowhere near the end to have a conflict to justify that ending.
The amount of time the characters say "sis and make it make sense was overkill. Niki's friends were a delight, loved the dynamics and the love they shared.
All in all the ending disappointed me - with a new ending and a little more development of the characters' stories and conflicts this could have been a great book.
I've edited my original review due to the added epilogue... And the reason I upgraded to a three star is that the ending was no long unfinished, however i truly believe this should be a fiction and not a romance. This is a story of Niki journey to true independence, to truly trusting herself. The Romance is clearly not the point of this story,, so my change in rating also took into account that this story is truly a fiction.
Edited..
“I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.”
March 8, 2022
“White Boyfriend” is a first time by LeeSha McCoy, new author to this reader. My anticipation of listening to this story was set on high, however it was a medium enjoy. It had a good plot; however, I think the narration was a bit off for me. There were laughable moments and a few sub-characters that were nice additions to the story.
The story…Nikki breaks up with Bron who send her into an emotional rollercoaster. She tries to make sense of the breakup but have parents who can’t grasp what has happened and have their own expectations of what her life should be like, thus thinking they can fix everything. She has a group of friends that have mixed thoughts on her situation and talks her into taking a yoga class where she meets Mike, who is white. Her relationship with Mike takes a slow-burn kind of affect where she comes to terms with herself and finds love in the process. Is this a rom-com book…I should say not so much but it does introduce how you can re-discover yourself after a bad breakup. In addition, I couldn't get into the story ending this way as I was anticipating another direction. Fell a bit short at the end. Narration was done by Jordan Frazier was good but not great. I like this author and plan to re-read without the narration to see if my thoughts on the story would be different.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for this audio ARC in exchange for my fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
The story…Nikki breaks up with Bron who send her into an emotional rollercoaster. She tries to make sense of the breakup but have parents who can’t grasp what has happened and have their own expectations of what her life should be like, thus thinking they can fix everything. She has a group of friends that have mixed thoughts on her situation and talks her into taking a yoga class where she meets Mike, who is white. Her relationship with Mike takes a slow-burn kind of affect where she comes to terms with herself and finds love in the process. Is this a rom-com book…I should say not so much but it does introduce how you can re-discover yourself after a bad breakup. In addition, I couldn't get into the story ending this way as I was anticipating another direction. Fell a bit short at the end. Narration was done by Jordan Frazier was good but not great. I like this author and plan to re-read without the narration to see if my thoughts on the story would be different.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for this audio ARC in exchange for my fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
March 16, 2022
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'White Boyfriend' by Leesha McCoy.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for LeeSha McCoy, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 10th March 2022.
This is the first book I have read by this author.
I was originally drawn to this book by its eye catching cover and intriguing sounding synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that 'This feel-good read about finding yourself is perfect for fans of How to Be Single, Just the Way I Am and Spoiler Alert.' I am a huge fan of 'How To Be Single' and 'Just The Way I Am' so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 35 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in .
This book is written in first person perspective and the protagonist is Nikki. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them.
'White Boyfriend' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book LeeSha discusses/includes sexual content so would recommend for 16 years plus.
OMG!!!! I CANNOT REMEMBER THE LAST TIME I LAUGHED SO MUCH!!! What an absolutely page turning, refreshing, laugh a minute read!!!! It is perfectly written to hook the reader in and the title, cover and synopsis is perfect for the storyline.
I absolutely LOVE, LOVE, LOVED this book which got me hook, line and sinker!! I absolutely devoured it in one reading and was completely absorbed throughout!! I loved that it feels that Nikki is talking directly to me over a cup of tea at the kitchen table. I coinldnt stop laughing from the first page to the end. I adore the fact that although there are quite sad moments and emotional times that within minutes LeeSha has you laughing until you are in tears again. This book is a complete breathe of fresh air and is the perfect mix of 'Bridesmaids' and 'The Hangover' and 'Bridget Jones Diaries' but funnier!!!! I genuinely couldn't recommend this book any more!!!! This is the most hilarious book I have read this year, and more. If you are looking for a light hearted read filled with romance, alcohol, sex, love, comedy, sadness, family and so, so much more you are in the right place!! This is a book about a woman finding herself and what is right for her and when I read the 'Thank Yous' at the end and discovered how Nikki helped LeeSha through her own struggles I loved Nikki even more! I enjoyed that this book delved into subjects such as interracial dating and I was absolutely intrigued but also saddened by some of the things I learned and how, even though we are in the year 2022, people still have issues about the colour of someone's skin. This is a great book for anyone who does and maybe they will get their head out of the sand and history!!
I was devastated when I came to the end of this book but I absolutely LOVED reading LeeSha's notes at the end and even the acknowledgements where her personality absolutely shines through!!
The characters were all an eclectic mix and each one of them were realistic and strong. I was completely invested in them especially the gang who I thought was an absolute bunch of kick @#& b#*ch and who I absolutely LOVED getting to know!!! The all teach women everywhere to live life to their fullest in their own ways. They are wild, free and a hundred laughs a minute but has a deep side too which was lovely to see. I really enjoyed watching Nikki's personality grow and change throughout the story and I'm extremely happy that she finally had it out with her Dad. She really comes to life in this book with her larger than life personality she is definitely someone I would love to meet!!! I had tears streaming down my eyes I was laughing so much with her and the rest of the gang!!! This book is much more realistic than many romantic comedy's I have previously read. It wasn't just Nikki who I loved though but all her absolutely fantastic friends Rhian, Alicia and Chat who made the most amazing friendship family I have ever met!!! They love, fight, laugh and are everything anyone could want in a family. would love to have such amazing sisters around me!!! Each friend had such a unique personality with their own pros and cons and they are each going to be hard to forget. I really am going to miss this fantastic gang and would love to meet them all again. It would be amazing if wach of them had their own books as well as us seeing how Nikki gets along. Hint, hint Leesha 😉!!
If you have never met this gang, you my friend are SERIOUSLY missing out!! This is a bunch you will never forget and will have tears streaming down your face in laughter and fill you with love and warmth!!
A MASSIVE WELL DONE to LeeShw on a HUGE success!!! I loved every page of your book and I cannot wait to read more of your past and hopefully future books. Welcome to my favourite author club!! Here's to many more successes 🥂
Overall a laugh a minute, heart warming, addictive genuine page turner that will have you crying with laughter.
Genres covered in this book include Romance, Humorous Fiction, Literature, Suspense and Entertainment amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of 'How to Be Single' , 'Just the Way I Am', 'Spoiler Alert', 'Bridget Jones Diary', 'Bridesmaids', 'The Hangover', Kristen Bailey and anyone who wants a fun lighthearted read.
328 pages.
This book is just 99p to purchase on kindle via Amazon or free on kindle unlimited (at time of review) which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
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Review for 'White Boyfriend' by Leesha McCoy.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for LeeSha McCoy, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 10th March 2022.
This is the first book I have read by this author.
I was originally drawn to this book by its eye catching cover and intriguing sounding synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that 'This feel-good read about finding yourself is perfect for fans of How to Be Single, Just the Way I Am and Spoiler Alert.' I am a huge fan of 'How To Be Single' and 'Just The Way I Am' so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 35 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in .
This book is written in first person perspective and the protagonist is Nikki. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them.
'White Boyfriend' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book LeeSha discusses/includes sexual content so would recommend for 16 years plus.
OMG!!!! I CANNOT REMEMBER THE LAST TIME I LAUGHED SO MUCH!!! What an absolutely page turning, refreshing, laugh a minute read!!!! It is perfectly written to hook the reader in and the title, cover and synopsis is perfect for the storyline.
I absolutely LOVE, LOVE, LOVED this book which got me hook, line and sinker!! I absolutely devoured it in one reading and was completely absorbed throughout!! I loved that it feels that Nikki is talking directly to me over a cup of tea at the kitchen table. I coinldnt stop laughing from the first page to the end. I adore the fact that although there are quite sad moments and emotional times that within minutes LeeSha has you laughing until you are in tears again. This book is a complete breathe of fresh air and is the perfect mix of 'Bridesmaids' and 'The Hangover' and 'Bridget Jones Diaries' but funnier!!!! I genuinely couldn't recommend this book any more!!!! This is the most hilarious book I have read this year, and more. If you are looking for a light hearted read filled with romance, alcohol, sex, love, comedy, sadness, family and so, so much more you are in the right place!! This is a book about a woman finding herself and what is right for her and when I read the 'Thank Yous' at the end and discovered how Nikki helped LeeSha through her own struggles I loved Nikki even more! I enjoyed that this book delved into subjects such as interracial dating and I was absolutely intrigued but also saddened by some of the things I learned and how, even though we are in the year 2022, people still have issues about the colour of someone's skin. This is a great book for anyone who does and maybe they will get their head out of the sand and history!!
I was devastated when I came to the end of this book but I absolutely LOVED reading LeeSha's notes at the end and even the acknowledgements where her personality absolutely shines through!!
The characters were all an eclectic mix and each one of them were realistic and strong. I was completely invested in them especially the gang who I thought was an absolute bunch of kick @#& b#*ch and who I absolutely LOVED getting to know!!! The all teach women everywhere to live life to their fullest in their own ways. They are wild, free and a hundred laughs a minute but has a deep side too which was lovely to see. I really enjoyed watching Nikki's personality grow and change throughout the story and I'm extremely happy that she finally had it out with her Dad. She really comes to life in this book with her larger than life personality she is definitely someone I would love to meet!!! I had tears streaming down my eyes I was laughing so much with her and the rest of the gang!!! This book is much more realistic than many romantic comedy's I have previously read. It wasn't just Nikki who I loved though but all her absolutely fantastic friends Rhian, Alicia and Chat who made the most amazing friendship family I have ever met!!! They love, fight, laugh and are everything anyone could want in a family. would love to have such amazing sisters around me!!! Each friend had such a unique personality with their own pros and cons and they are each going to be hard to forget. I really am going to miss this fantastic gang and would love to meet them all again. It would be amazing if wach of them had their own books as well as us seeing how Nikki gets along. Hint, hint Leesha 😉!!
If you have never met this gang, you my friend are SERIOUSLY missing out!! This is a bunch you will never forget and will have tears streaming down your face in laughter and fill you with love and warmth!!
A MASSIVE WELL DONE to LeeShw on a HUGE success!!! I loved every page of your book and I cannot wait to read more of your past and hopefully future books. Welcome to my favourite author club!! Here's to many more successes 🥂
Overall a laugh a minute, heart warming, addictive genuine page turner that will have you crying with laughter.
Genres covered in this book include Romance, Humorous Fiction, Literature, Suspense and Entertainment amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of 'How to Be Single' , 'Just the Way I Am', 'Spoiler Alert', 'Bridget Jones Diary', 'Bridesmaids', 'The Hangover', Kristen Bailey and anyone who wants a fun lighthearted read.
328 pages.
This book is just 99p to purchase on kindle via Amazon or free on kindle unlimited (at time of review) which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
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February 1, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
White Boyfriend is the story of Nicola, who after her long-term boyfriend dumps her decides some changes in her life are necessary. She meets Mike who helps her embrace a new way of looking at life and possibly changes her mind about what she's looking for in a romantic partner.
I did enjoy this book. Nicola's journey, while a familiar one, still seemed fresh. Her friend circle was great, and I appreciated how they supported her honestly. The struggle with her parents was written realistically and I liked the slow-burn of her relationship with Mike.
What I didn't like is labeling this book a romance- it's more "Nicola Gets Her Groove Back" than a love story, and the title is wildly misleading- yes, Mike is white, but that doesn't factor much into the plot at all nor cause any complications. However, I always enjoy reading books about successful black women getting their lives on track and this fit the bill well. Three stars.
White Boyfriend is the story of Nicola, who after her long-term boyfriend dumps her decides some changes in her life are necessary. She meets Mike who helps her embrace a new way of looking at life and possibly changes her mind about what she's looking for in a romantic partner.
I did enjoy this book. Nicola's journey, while a familiar one, still seemed fresh. Her friend circle was great, and I appreciated how they supported her honestly. The struggle with her parents was written realistically and I liked the slow-burn of her relationship with Mike.
What I didn't like is labeling this book a romance- it's more "Nicola Gets Her Groove Back" than a love story, and the title is wildly misleading- yes, Mike is white, but that doesn't factor much into the plot at all nor cause any complications. However, I always enjoy reading books about successful black women getting their lives on track and this fit the bill well. Three stars.
May 11, 2022
White Boyfriend by Leesha McCoy narrated by Jordan Frazier
The title was misleading. It should have been called “Finding Oneself”
Main character Nikki eventually stands up to her overbearing father and stops trying to please her parents.
Her boyfriend of years breaks up with her and then she dates Mike a white guy for the first time. They dated for a little while but I never got the impression that he was her “boyfriend” . The usual “stereotypes” about white men are unnecessarily included. Then Nikki decides she needs to find herself so she and Mike stop dating. So her HEA is without “the white boyfriend“.
The most positive aspect of the whole story was her relationship with her three girlfriends. They were fun and loyal.
The narration by Jordan Frazier was good.
The title was misleading. It should have been called “Finding Oneself”
Main character Nikki eventually stands up to her overbearing father and stops trying to please her parents.
Her boyfriend of years breaks up with her and then she dates Mike a white guy for the first time. They dated for a little while but I never got the impression that he was her “boyfriend” . The usual “stereotypes” about white men are unnecessarily included. Then Nikki decides she needs to find herself so she and Mike stop dating. So her HEA is without “the white boyfriend“.
The most positive aspect of the whole story was her relationship with her three girlfriends. They were fun and loyal.
The narration by Jordan Frazier was good.
March 12, 2022
Jordan Frazier charmingly narrates LeeSha McCoy's White Boyfriend: An absolutely heart-warming feel-good romantic comedy. Nikki’s life is all about pleasing her parents and winning their approval. Hence the nearly perfect boyfriend, a great career, and a gorgeous apartment. But she’s missed out on living her own life while trying to be perfect, losing sight of herself and the life she wants to live. When her “perfect boyfriend” Bron dumps her, she’s left feeling like a failure with no idea who she is without the façade of her perfect—if boring, but comfortable—relationship. Her best friends encourage her to date and open herself to new experiences. Embarking on a journey of self-discovery, she goes with the flow. Then she meets Mike, a sweet, laid-back, white guy to whom she’s surprisingly attracted—a first for her— despite having nothing in common with him. Right, when they start dating, Bron wants a second chance. Can Nikki find the perfect man if she doesn’t know herself first?
Frazier’s lively, emotional narration perfectly complements McCoy’s humorous, sexy, and emotional novel of self-discovery and interracial dating. She brilliantly brings Nicola’s story to life with distinct voices for each character, capturing their personalities, moods, and emotions. I love Frazier’s narration for Nikki and her friends most, but she also does a great job with the male characters. Additionally, her skill with accents is superb.
McCoy’s description is colorful, and her characters are relatable and nicely developed. A workaholic planner who plays it safe, Nikki is a strong, independent, Black woman with a positive outlook on life. Unfortunately, because of her controlling, judgmental parents, Nikki’s also a people pleaser who rarely does things that make her happy or just for fun. I like Nikki and her friends. But I love her relationships with them and how they support her. Their relationships and conversations feel authentic. The scenes between Nikki and her friends and her scenes with Mike are excellently written. Free-spirited Mike, who lives only for today, teaches her about being in the moment, having fun, and not caring what people think. He’s a calming presence who balances and supports Nikki, encouraging her to take risks. I love Nikki and Mike’s friendship, outings, banter, conversations, and interactions before and after becoming romantically involved. They’re sweet, funny, intimate, and sexy. McCoy’s characters confront interracial dating issues and stereotypes head-on, which is fantastic. I didn’t love the ending, but I can see why it most suited Nikki’s evolution.
White Boyfriend: An absolutely heart-warming feel-good romantic comedy is a funny, sweet, insightful, emotional, and engaging novel about a woman’s journey of discovering who she is and what she wants out of her life, free from others’ expectations and control.
Advanced review copy provided by Bookouture via Netgalley for review.
Frazier’s lively, emotional narration perfectly complements McCoy’s humorous, sexy, and emotional novel of self-discovery and interracial dating. She brilliantly brings Nicola’s story to life with distinct voices for each character, capturing their personalities, moods, and emotions. I love Frazier’s narration for Nikki and her friends most, but she also does a great job with the male characters. Additionally, her skill with accents is superb.
McCoy’s description is colorful, and her characters are relatable and nicely developed. A workaholic planner who plays it safe, Nikki is a strong, independent, Black woman with a positive outlook on life. Unfortunately, because of her controlling, judgmental parents, Nikki’s also a people pleaser who rarely does things that make her happy or just for fun. I like Nikki and her friends. But I love her relationships with them and how they support her. Their relationships and conversations feel authentic. The scenes between Nikki and her friends and her scenes with Mike are excellently written. Free-spirited Mike, who lives only for today, teaches her about being in the moment, having fun, and not caring what people think. He’s a calming presence who balances and supports Nikki, encouraging her to take risks. I love Nikki and Mike’s friendship, outings, banter, conversations, and interactions before and after becoming romantically involved. They’re sweet, funny, intimate, and sexy. McCoy’s characters confront interracial dating issues and stereotypes head-on, which is fantastic. I didn’t love the ending, but I can see why it most suited Nikki’s evolution.
White Boyfriend: An absolutely heart-warming feel-good romantic comedy is a funny, sweet, insightful, emotional, and engaging novel about a woman’s journey of discovering who she is and what she wants out of her life, free from others’ expectations and control.
Advanced review copy provided by Bookouture via Netgalley for review.
March 9, 2022
This is a book about a person with control over their life but not. This is the book where you fall in love and then hate and then comprehend the hate and finally do not know what to do with yourself
The author did a great job narrating a story so complete to let you know you can not take life for granted.
I hope and definitely need to have book 2 about Nikky. I beg to have this book 2. This heart of mine is broken but my womanhood is so proud.
For all the above said I am giving a five-star rating to the author for such a great job, and obviously a big thanks!
This ARC was granted to me through NetGalley and approved by Bookouture in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
The author did a great job narrating a story so complete to let you know you can not take life for granted.
I hope and definitely need to have book 2 about Nikky. I beg to have this book 2. This heart of mine is broken but my womanhood is so proud.
For all the above said I am giving a five-star rating to the author for such a great job, and obviously a big thanks!
This ARC was granted to me through NetGalley and approved by Bookouture in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
March 13, 2022
I really enjoyed this book, which is an inspirational women's fiction/romance novel about a woman called Nikki, who has to find herself again after her boyfriend splits up with her. After being controlled by her parents, and other aspects of her life, she seeks to find her freedom, and to learn who she really is. Her friends help her to do this, as well as a lovely man called Mike. She has a lot of fun along the way, and I enjoyed reading about her adventure, especially that of her tarot reading, and her yoga and meditation journey.
The audiobook narrator was perfect for the book, and I found her easy to listen to. She had a nice voice, with a nice accent, which suited Nikki perfectly.
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The audiobook narrator was perfect for the book, and I found her easy to listen to. She had a nice voice, with a nice accent, which suited Nikki perfectly.
Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 16, 2022
**audiobook version**
Narrator 5 stars
Amazing voice!
Story 3 stars
While I really enjoyed the story and the characters developed but everytime yoga and dick (I personally prefer to call it what it is and that's a beautiful penis) was mentioned I wanted to stick a fork in my ear. Yoga is boring at the best of times and literally hearing about it on every other page was just too much. And in regards to the dick.... I'm by no means a prude.. But after a while it just became cringe worthy.
Narrator 5 stars
Amazing voice!
Story 3 stars
While I really enjoyed the story and the characters developed but everytime yoga and dick (I personally prefer to call it what it is and that's a beautiful penis) was mentioned I wanted to stick a fork in my ear. Yoga is boring at the best of times and literally hearing about it on every other page was just too much. And in regards to the dick.... I'm by no means a prude.. But after a while it just became cringe worthy.
March 11, 2022
I think I just read an audiobook in my personal best record. I was graciously given a copy of this book by Net Galley and Bookouture Audio the day before it was set to be archived. Yep, you heard it correctly. I listened to this book in less than 24 hours.
That being said, while I consumed this book really quickly, it was also written in a quick format. The writer didn't waste time developing a relationship with the past relationship of the MC as it was never intended for them to last. Some might find that difficult to grasp because they anticipate the ex will be the set up for the third breakup act. That would be the case if this were a romance. Hence my confusion. I'll be honest, I didn't read the description. *slaps forehead* This book women's fiction with romantic plotlines. AH HA! Well that makes all the difference. Don't get me wrong, as women's fiction it hits the mark but as a romance it misses. This is where reading is fundamental.
Now that I can wrap my mind around this being a women's fiction, I can fully lean into my fangirling of the friendship. This group of friends is what kept this book afloat for me. I absolutely adored them. There was so much spoken and unspoken support that leapt off the pages. They respected each others boundaries and the main character understood that her friends had lives of their own. So when someone couldn't make it to a yoga class or had to care for their children there was no drama. Her friends never feared to share their opinion but always did it with love and compassion. They helped her moved, took a vacation with her, recommended yoga and toys, they cared for her well being. Reading this during women's history month felt so right as it showcase the power and necessity of female friendships!
Another thing that truly worked in this book's favor was the narrator, Jordan Fraizer. Her voice soothed me and felt authentic as only a black woman's voice portraying a black female main character could. She juggled the different voices of the character rather well. Nic sounded different from Alicia, who sounded different from Chi who sound different from Kelly. I appreciated the authors navigation of familiar obligations and working for the satisfaction of others rather than yourself. Nicola's life is very relatable. Living your life on autopilot happens and falling into a semblance of complacency felt a little too familiar for me. I was a little triggered by the "independent" term.
Now I've mentioned how this book isn't truly a romance but uses the "romance" to build the themes of self discovery. However everything about her relationship with Mike worked to grind my gears. There was not an ounce of chemistry. I couldn't figure out why on earth she became so wrapped up in him just from looking at him when his looks were even played up. If she had focused on his physical attraction and said he looked like David Beckham or Bradley Cooper then I would understand. However I didn't picture this one bit. In addition, what sparked him to pursue her so heavily on the first day? The only thing I was left to think was he had a fetishization. I hate to say it but so there was so much focus on the town he was raised, his previous relationship with black women and his irritation at being quested about it. Something just didn't sit right with me about it.
Lastly, I feel that you should be warned as well. This book is fade to black. This can be a big frustration for adult readers. Don't build me up to let me down. This book introduced a lot of sexual concepts and pleasure only to be a tease. It was very upsetting as a person who reads romances and sees the value in healthy sexual relationships. However this again brings me back to this is more women's fiction rather than romance. Not to be misconstrued, spice is not necessary to be a romance and this story wasn't made for smut but with the discussion being so focused on "praying" there was no payoff.
That being said, while I consumed this book really quickly, it was also written in a quick format. The writer didn't waste time developing a relationship with the past relationship of the MC as it was never intended for them to last. Some might find that difficult to grasp because they anticipate the ex will be the set up for the third breakup act. That would be the case if this were a romance. Hence my confusion. I'll be honest, I didn't read the description. *slaps forehead* This book women's fiction with romantic plotlines. AH HA! Well that makes all the difference. Don't get me wrong, as women's fiction it hits the mark but as a romance it misses. This is where reading is fundamental.
Now that I can wrap my mind around this being a women's fiction, I can fully lean into my fangirling of the friendship. This group of friends is what kept this book afloat for me. I absolutely adored them. There was so much spoken and unspoken support that leapt off the pages. They respected each others boundaries and the main character understood that her friends had lives of their own. So when someone couldn't make it to a yoga class or had to care for their children there was no drama. Her friends never feared to share their opinion but always did it with love and compassion. They helped her moved, took a vacation with her, recommended yoga and toys, they cared for her well being. Reading this during women's history month felt so right as it showcase the power and necessity of female friendships!
Another thing that truly worked in this book's favor was the narrator, Jordan Fraizer. Her voice soothed me and felt authentic as only a black woman's voice portraying a black female main character could. She juggled the different voices of the character rather well. Nic sounded different from Alicia, who sounded different from Chi who sound different from Kelly. I appreciated the authors navigation of familiar obligations and working for the satisfaction of others rather than yourself. Nicola's life is very relatable. Living your life on autopilot happens and falling into a semblance of complacency felt a little too familiar for me. I was a little triggered by the "independent" term.
Now I've mentioned how this book isn't truly a romance but uses the "romance" to build the themes of self discovery. However everything about her relationship with Mike worked to grind my gears. There was not an ounce of chemistry. I couldn't figure out why on earth she became so wrapped up in him just from looking at him when his looks were even played up. If she had focused on his physical attraction and said he looked like David Beckham or Bradley Cooper then I would understand. However I didn't picture this one bit. In addition, what sparked him to pursue her so heavily on the first day? The only thing I was left to think was he had a fetishization. I hate to say it but so there was so much focus on the town he was raised, his previous relationship with black women and his irritation at being quested about it. Something just didn't sit right with me about it.
Lastly, I feel that you should be warned as well. This book is fade to black. This can be a big frustration for adult readers. Don't build me up to let me down. This book introduced a lot of sexual concepts and pleasure only to be a tease. It was very upsetting as a person who reads romances and sees the value in healthy sexual relationships. However this again brings me back to this is more women's fiction rather than romance. Not to be misconstrued, spice is not necessary to be a romance and this story wasn't made for smut but with the discussion being so focused on "praying" there was no payoff.
February 20, 2022
An empowering and uplifting read!
February 7, 2022
One thing I have to say is that this book took me on a journey. Nikki is so browbeaten by expectation, I wanted her to find a way out of that mindset. The theme of seeking parental approval way into adulthood shone through in this book. It was so well handled and I totally got it.
I enjoyed the friendships within Nikki’s little group. The relationships were fun, bold and warm. For the friendship factor alone, White Boyfriend, provided a lot of entertainment and light humour. I loved the holiday scenes. They certainly brought the laughs along.
I found myself mulling over the ending for a while. To me, it was perfect. This is a story about one woman finally having the freedom to find herself and that was a joy to read!
I enjoyed the friendships within Nikki’s little group. The relationships were fun, bold and warm. For the friendship factor alone, White Boyfriend, provided a lot of entertainment and light humour. I loved the holiday scenes. They certainly brought the laughs along.
I found myself mulling over the ending for a while. To me, it was perfect. This is a story about one woman finally having the freedom to find herself and that was a joy to read!
March 6, 2022
Man, I hate disliking books, especially from smaller authors, but this was not good. This book never gets out of first gear. The title is the book version of a clickbait headline. The character can’t get out of her own for three consecutive minutes. It’s a frustrating read.
Some of the choices early on made it difficult to get into the book. We meet around ten characters within the first ten percent of the book and they’re not always clearly defined to remember who is who. Many of them blend. I don’t know if this is planned to be the first of a connected series or not, but it felt like it was setting up the friend group to each have their own story eventually, so it felt a little info-dumpy. There’s no need to know the main character’s best friend’s father’s name or that he lives in England unless it’s going to be relevant in *this* book.
After that, the main character spends the rest of the book making up relationship problems that don’t exist - to the extent that nothing is actually wrong but she’s going to find something wrong, so she’s going to google problems in interracial relationships and dismiss everything her friends tell her when she asks them, despite them having actual experience in interracial relationships. There are good examples of attempting to communicate with the boyfriend and addressing concerns, but it all goes right out the window because she ignores everything they discuss anyway. “I have this concern and I need to address it.” The boyfriend reassures her that he doesn’t think XYZ and actually has experience with topic 1 and is well versed in Topic 2. “Well yeah, he said everything I needed to hear and I believe him but I’m going to make a big issue out of this anyway.” Argh
I feel like a different editor could’ve made a world of difference with this book. There are too many characters throughout the entire book and most of them could be removed with a little reworking to make this book better. I believe the writer is American but the publisher is British and that feels pretty obvious throughout. Lots of Britishisms that could be removed, even from people who aren’t the British friend in the book.
And it’s not a romance without a HEA so be aware of that going in. Call it women’s fiction or something but if there’s not happy ending for the couple, it’s not a romance despite what the publisher’s own website says. It’s billed as a good rec for fans of Spoiler Alert and that could not be further from the truth.
There was so much potential with this idea and it all falls terribly flat.
CW: There’s a few mentions of food intake, moralizing food as good or bad, and switching to “good” foods. It’s not a major plot point but if you’re sensitive to those topics, be aware of that. It’s consistent throughout and could be a pretty significant trigger for people with a history of eating disorders.
I received a free digital version from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 10, 2022
CHEEKY . FUN . CUTE . UPLIFTING . DISAPPOINTING . MISLEADING
OK, before you read my points- please understand that I really wanted to love this one and genuinely started off really enjoying it so much to the point where I got another of the author's books (which I now regret but can't return).
I don't like 'not liking' books especially by lesser known authors but I got to the point where I was just forcing myself to read it to get to the end. The book is set up to be plot driven but is written as though it's character driven which was confusing and meant there was wayyy too much description and dialogue one minute and then not enough of it the next. The characters were easy to understand and most were likeable enough but there were too many "close friends" so they all became a bit muddled)
Right so...
- It never really got started - meaning everything centered around the main character DECIDING to start living her life for herself and most of the book was that, - her deciding rather than doing.
- It's set in the states with American characters but they used very British language ("longing it out" and "ass over tits") which on one hand made for a fun read because I began to picture the scenes unfolding in London so it felt closer to home, but also could get confusing when it went back to referring the places and things in the states
- I eventually had to google to find out if the author was British or American because it was throwing me off - it turns out the she is from the states but has lived here for years and so uses our colloquialisms. Unfortunately, it didn't really work.
- The title is misleading - I was expecting a LOT MORE focus on Nicola getting to know Mike, making the choice to date him or not (I assumed the former as the title suggests) and then for it to just be a witty, whimsical, funny story of them getting to know each other and breaking barriers and biases together. It's mainly about Nicola discovering that she should stand up to her dad, working on big projects and accounts at work and spending more time with her girlfriends. In truth, Mike barely features?!?
- It started off STRONG but then as I got further into the book, I realised, nothing had really happened and I was still at the 'start' of the story. I was desperate for it to get to the good part.
- A bit gutted at Nicola's final decision and the abrupt/rushed ending. She came to some conclusions that were slightly dramatic. After spending the entire story coming to the conclusion that she shouldn't get in her own way, I found that her final decision was one that LITERALLY got in her own way and was the result of overthinking and refusing to learn how to grow.- It didn't need to be over 300 pages - it could easily have been 211 pages and still got the point across.
OK, before you read my points- please understand that I really wanted to love this one and genuinely started off really enjoying it so much to the point where I got another of the author's books (which I now regret but can't return).
I don't like 'not liking' books especially by lesser known authors but I got to the point where I was just forcing myself to read it to get to the end. The book is set up to be plot driven but is written as though it's character driven which was confusing and meant there was wayyy too much description and dialogue one minute and then not enough of it the next. The characters were easy to understand and most were likeable enough but there were too many "close friends" so they all became a bit muddled)
Right so...
- It never really got started - meaning everything centered around the main character DECIDING to start living her life for herself and most of the book was that, - her deciding rather than doing.
- It's set in the states with American characters but they used very British language ("longing it out" and "ass over tits") which on one hand made for a fun read because I began to picture the scenes unfolding in London so it felt closer to home, but also could get confusing when it went back to referring the places and things in the states
- I eventually had to google to find out if the author was British or American because it was throwing me off - it turns out the she is from the states but has lived here for years and so uses our colloquialisms. Unfortunately, it didn't really work.
- The title is misleading - I was expecting a LOT MORE focus on Nicola getting to know Mike, making the choice to date him or not (I assumed the former as the title suggests) and then for it to just be a witty, whimsical, funny story of them getting to know each other and breaking barriers and biases together. It's mainly about Nicola discovering that she should stand up to her dad, working on big projects and accounts at work and spending more time with her girlfriends. In truth, Mike barely features?!?
- It started off STRONG but then as I got further into the book, I realised, nothing had really happened and I was still at the 'start' of the story. I was desperate for it to get to the good part.
- A bit gutted at Nicola's final decision and the abrupt/rushed ending. She came to some conclusions that were slightly dramatic. After spending the entire story coming to the conclusion that she shouldn't get in her own way, I found that her final decision was one that LITERALLY got in her own way and was the result of overthinking and refusing to learn how to grow.- It didn't need to be over 300 pages - it could easily have been 211 pages and still got the point across.
February 1, 2022
White Boyfriend is a wonderful story of how important it is to have a supportive group of friends while embarking on a journey to find yourself. After Nikki is dumped by her boyfriend, Bron, she finds herself learning to enjoy life on her own. Thanks to her awesome circle of girl friends, she begins to take a yoga class where she meets the easy-going Mike. They quickly strike up a friendship that opens Nikki’s eyes to a new life of spontaneity and adventure which grows into more. While dealing with her ex-boyfriend and overly strict parents, Nikki has to learn to take a stand for herself.
I found myself smiling a lot as a read through this book. The friendship between Nikki and Mike was very refreshing and I honestly wouldn’t mind if it hadn’t even gone past a friendship. I could really connect with Nikki’s struggle with her overbearing parents. I also really enjoyed the friend group that Nikki was a part of. It’s refreshing to see a group of friends with no drama lifting each other up.
While I did enjoy most of the book, there were a few things that threw me off. I had a difficult time with calculating the passage of time in this book. A lot of the major events from the beginning to the end of the book seemed to happen within just a few weeks of each other, however I was surprised to read at one point we had jumped from 2 months from her break-up to 6 months. It really did not make sense with the timeline of events.
On a side note, after reading the book, I am not a fan of the cover art shown here, especially the drawing of Mike. The depiction of Nikki is definitely what I thought of after reading descriptions of her, but my man Mike was done dirty. The guy on the cover looks like a frumpy 20 year old college kid, not sexy 32 year old man.
I found myself smiling a lot as a read through this book. The friendship between Nikki and Mike was very refreshing and I honestly wouldn’t mind if it hadn’t even gone past a friendship. I could really connect with Nikki’s struggle with her overbearing parents. I also really enjoyed the friend group that Nikki was a part of. It’s refreshing to see a group of friends with no drama lifting each other up.
While I did enjoy most of the book, there were a few things that threw me off. I had a difficult time with calculating the passage of time in this book. A lot of the major events from the beginning to the end of the book seemed to happen within just a few weeks of each other, however I was surprised to read at one point we had jumped from 2 months from her break-up to 6 months. It really did not make sense with the timeline of events.
On a side note, after reading the book, I am not a fan of the cover art shown here, especially the drawing of Mike. The depiction of Nikki is definitely what I thought of after reading descriptions of her, but my man Mike was done dirty. The guy on the cover looks like a frumpy 20 year old college kid, not sexy 32 year old man.
March 4, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to listen to this book in return for an honest review.
Synopsis
If you can’t love yourself, how are you going to love anybody else? A sweet, funny, feel-good page-turner about getting your groove back.
Nikki has it all—a great career, a gorgeous apartment and a boyfriend who is basically perfect. Okay, maybe things have grown a little too comfortable… but Nikki can handle it if it means keeping hot and wholesome Bron in her life.
Then the unthinkable happens and Bron walks out, leaving Nikki feeling like a total failure. They were supposed to have marriage and babies… but instead she’s got a guilty conscience, pissed-off parents who just want her to win him back and the realization that without “Nikki-and-Bron” to hide behind, she has no idea who she really is.
Desperate to pull her out of her slump, best friends Alicia and Chay embark on a mission to help Nikki find Nikki again… by tossing her straight back into the dating pool. There she meets Mike – sweet, laid-back and the first white guy she’s ever been with. There’s no doubt there’s some serious chemistry between them, but is becoming part of Mike’s world taking Nikki even further away from herself?
Then Bron unexpectedly comes knocking, just as things are getting serious with Mike, and the rule book goes right out the window…
This feel-good read about finding yourself is perfect for fans of How to Be Single, Just the Way I Am and Spoiler Alert.
We meet Nikki broken by a break up with Bron who’s really done quite a number on her emotionally and upped and left her alone and confused. Add in to the mix the complex relationship with her parents who have their expectations set high for Nikki, and are obviously disappointed and set on “fixing” her problems.
Luckily for Nikki she has a brilliant friendship group (the holiday scenes are hilarious) desperate to get her mojo back, they want to get her back into dating and talk her into yoga where she meets the lovely Mike, it’s a slow burn to say the least, but it looks like she’s found love and found herself.
I’d say this is a book, so much more about self discovery than romance or rom-com. But as the info suggests “if you don’t love yourself, how you gonna love somebody else. Really enjoyed this. Well written, and narrated brilliantly.
Synopsis
If you can’t love yourself, how are you going to love anybody else? A sweet, funny, feel-good page-turner about getting your groove back.
Nikki has it all—a great career, a gorgeous apartment and a boyfriend who is basically perfect. Okay, maybe things have grown a little too comfortable… but Nikki can handle it if it means keeping hot and wholesome Bron in her life.
Then the unthinkable happens and Bron walks out, leaving Nikki feeling like a total failure. They were supposed to have marriage and babies… but instead she’s got a guilty conscience, pissed-off parents who just want her to win him back and the realization that without “Nikki-and-Bron” to hide behind, she has no idea who she really is.
Desperate to pull her out of her slump, best friends Alicia and Chay embark on a mission to help Nikki find Nikki again… by tossing her straight back into the dating pool. There she meets Mike – sweet, laid-back and the first white guy she’s ever been with. There’s no doubt there’s some serious chemistry between them, but is becoming part of Mike’s world taking Nikki even further away from herself?
Then Bron unexpectedly comes knocking, just as things are getting serious with Mike, and the rule book goes right out the window…
This feel-good read about finding yourself is perfect for fans of How to Be Single, Just the Way I Am and Spoiler Alert.
We meet Nikki broken by a break up with Bron who’s really done quite a number on her emotionally and upped and left her alone and confused. Add in to the mix the complex relationship with her parents who have their expectations set high for Nikki, and are obviously disappointed and set on “fixing” her problems.
Luckily for Nikki she has a brilliant friendship group (the holiday scenes are hilarious) desperate to get her mojo back, they want to get her back into dating and talk her into yoga where she meets the lovely Mike, it’s a slow burn to say the least, but it looks like she’s found love and found herself.
I’d say this is a book, so much more about self discovery than romance or rom-com. But as the info suggests “if you don’t love yourself, how you gonna love somebody else. Really enjoyed this. Well written, and narrated brilliantly.
March 10, 2022
While I liked the idea of this book, a lot of it is messy - and I don't just mean the relationships.
The story is intended to be a celebration of a young woman discovering herself outside the bonds of romantic relationships and parental expectations. Main character Nikki does learn about what she enjoys and wants, but she can't seem to do it without the context of a relationship. The messages throughout the book are conflicting and not always healthy - her friends want her to spend time focusing on herself, but also want her to immediately jump into the dating pool. I appreciated the sex positivity of the story! but it also felt oddly sex focused for a story about self-discovery.
Unfortunately, the writing style doesn't help the story at all. It is all telling and no showing, very plainly written and overflowing with slang. Often the story feels like a self-help book masquerading as fiction - Nikki takes up yoga and meditation, spends time outdoors, and focuses on eating "good" food. While some of those things are great, they're very cliche hobbies for a character who is rediscovering herself.
There are wonderful parts of this book, and many of them are Nikki's friends. I love stories with people (especially women) supporting and loving one another. Their close relationships are obvious, from the group text threads to vacations together. They seem like so much fun!
Nikki's relationship with her parents is the best written relationship in the whole story. Her chafing under their expectations and fear of being honest with them felt very believable. Sometimes parents have a difficult time accepting that their children may make decisions they won't agree with, and that situation was depicted in all its awful reality. Though he didn't get much page time, I appreciated the small glimpse of Nikki's brother and the great relationship he and Nikki share.
Jordan Frazier has a lovely voice and gave an excellent performance for this audiobook. Listening to this one is a great choice if you have the option!
I could definitely see this book turning into a series, taking turns featuring the many people introduced in these pages.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture Audio for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The story is intended to be a celebration of a young woman discovering herself outside the bonds of romantic relationships and parental expectations. Main character Nikki does learn about what she enjoys and wants, but she can't seem to do it without the context of a relationship. The messages throughout the book are conflicting and not always healthy - her friends want her to spend time focusing on herself, but also want her to immediately jump into the dating pool. I appreciated the sex positivity of the story! but it also felt oddly sex focused for a story about self-discovery.
Unfortunately, the writing style doesn't help the story at all. It is all telling and no showing, very plainly written and overflowing with slang. Often the story feels like a self-help book masquerading as fiction - Nikki takes up yoga and meditation, spends time outdoors, and focuses on eating "good" food. While some of those things are great, they're very cliche hobbies for a character who is rediscovering herself.
There are wonderful parts of this book, and many of them are Nikki's friends. I love stories with people (especially women) supporting and loving one another. Their close relationships are obvious, from the group text threads to vacations together. They seem like so much fun!
Nikki's relationship with her parents is the best written relationship in the whole story. Her chafing under their expectations and fear of being honest with them felt very believable. Sometimes parents have a difficult time accepting that their children may make decisions they won't agree with, and that situation was depicted in all its awful reality. Though he didn't get much page time, I appreciated the small glimpse of Nikki's brother and the great relationship he and Nikki share.
Jordan Frazier has a lovely voice and gave an excellent performance for this audiobook. Listening to this one is a great choice if you have the option!
I could definitely see this book turning into a series, taking turns featuring the many people introduced in these pages.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture Audio for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 11, 2022
Published: March 10, 2022
Bookouture
Pages: 329
Genre: Multicultural Romance
KKECReads Rating: 4/5
I received a copy of this book for free, and I leave my review voluntarily.
LeeSha McCoy is the author of all things African American Romance. She released her first book in 2012 and currently writes African American Urban Romance, Paranormal, Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Romantic Comedy, and Steamy Contemporary Romance under the pen name Karmen Kane. With over 30 books published to date, representation is important to her, so you will always find positive representations of black men and women in her books, with a focus on family bonds, growth, and above all, strong fiery heroines and the heroes that love the hell out of them for it. Writing novels that make her readers 'feel' is her mission; she does not just write stories to be read but for her readers to experience. As someone who has lived through many ups and downs in her personal life, she uses those experiences in all of her stories, priding herself on the realism in her work, regardless of genre.
“Rejection is redirection.”
Nik thought her life was great. She has a job she loves, incredible friends, loving, albeit overbearing, parents, and a long-term boyfriend. Until her long-term boyfriend ends the relationship stating he’s bored. Now, Nik is questioning everything. Luckily, her girls have her back.
I enjoyed this book. Nik was a fantastic lead character, and her journey is relatable. I loved the pacing, the themes, and the fact that this isn’t your typical romance.
The girls were all beyond amazing. I loved the sisterhood, love, and support in the group. Good friends are worth their weight in gold when Nik was at her lowest and had such a supportive group to help her find her way.
I enjoyed Nik’s development throughout this story. She definitely blossomed into a self sufficient queen and started seeing that she had to live her life and be the author of her own story.
I enjoyed the writing style, the dialogue, and the humor. This was a fun read, mixed with the perfect amount of drama. This is a fantastic book to read if you need a reminder to live your life and love your journey.
Bookouture
Pages: 329
Genre: Multicultural Romance
KKECReads Rating: 4/5
I received a copy of this book for free, and I leave my review voluntarily.
LeeSha McCoy is the author of all things African American Romance. She released her first book in 2012 and currently writes African American Urban Romance, Paranormal, Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Romantic Comedy, and Steamy Contemporary Romance under the pen name Karmen Kane. With over 30 books published to date, representation is important to her, so you will always find positive representations of black men and women in her books, with a focus on family bonds, growth, and above all, strong fiery heroines and the heroes that love the hell out of them for it. Writing novels that make her readers 'feel' is her mission; she does not just write stories to be read but for her readers to experience. As someone who has lived through many ups and downs in her personal life, she uses those experiences in all of her stories, priding herself on the realism in her work, regardless of genre.
“Rejection is redirection.”
Nik thought her life was great. She has a job she loves, incredible friends, loving, albeit overbearing, parents, and a long-term boyfriend. Until her long-term boyfriend ends the relationship stating he’s bored. Now, Nik is questioning everything. Luckily, her girls have her back.
I enjoyed this book. Nik was a fantastic lead character, and her journey is relatable. I loved the pacing, the themes, and the fact that this isn’t your typical romance.
The girls were all beyond amazing. I loved the sisterhood, love, and support in the group. Good friends are worth their weight in gold when Nik was at her lowest and had such a supportive group to help her find her way.
I enjoyed Nik’s development throughout this story. She definitely blossomed into a self sufficient queen and started seeing that she had to live her life and be the author of her own story.
I enjoyed the writing style, the dialogue, and the humor. This was a fun read, mixed with the perfect amount of drama. This is a fantastic book to read if you need a reminder to live your life and love your journey.
April 30, 2022
This book was listed as a heart-warming rom-com, and by the title I thought it would look into the ups and downs of an interracial relationship in a sweet and funny fashion.
I wasn't sure I found it to be a rom-com at all. There wasn't an HEA and exploration of interracial relationship was only in passing. There were some funny moments, but they weren't really to do with the love interest.
However this was a relatable and stunning story of healing after a major breakup, and of the mostly undiscussed second coming-of-age -- the one where we finally start to break free of the outdated models of behaviour set for us by caregivers. The one that tends to happen in the mid-late twenties.
Nikki was a wonderfully authentic and honest character. And so many times I felt connected with her. A careful reader will find a lot of tips on navigating difficult periods in life, and lots of wellness and empowerment woven into the story. There was also plenty on the power of good friends and sisterhood. Nikki's friends will make you want them to be your friends too. (Well, if you don't mind sex-obsessed friends.)
Then there was Mike. Admittedly I liked him, but in a "meh" sort of way. There was some chemistry, but honestly, there was way more chemistry and excitement with the vibrators (thanks for the rose plug!). I was a little disappointed that after all the sexy talk and vibrator action, sex scenes were closed door. But it also made me feel like one of Nikki's friends, rather than being inside of Nikki's head, and the tone reflected that too. Very warm and friendly.
I wanted to give this four stars but because I really don't find it to be rom-com, I decided on three. But as a healing/breakup/wellness book. It was a beautiful story.
Thank you NetGalley for my e-copy.
I wasn't sure I found it to be a rom-com at all. There wasn't an HEA and exploration of interracial relationship was only in passing. There were some funny moments, but they weren't really to do with the love interest.
However this was a relatable and stunning story of healing after a major breakup, and of the mostly undiscussed second coming-of-age -- the one where we finally start to break free of the outdated models of behaviour set for us by caregivers. The one that tends to happen in the mid-late twenties.
Nikki was a wonderfully authentic and honest character. And so many times I felt connected with her. A careful reader will find a lot of tips on navigating difficult periods in life, and lots of wellness and empowerment woven into the story. There was also plenty on the power of good friends and sisterhood. Nikki's friends will make you want them to be your friends too. (Well, if you don't mind sex-obsessed friends.)
Then there was Mike. Admittedly I liked him, but in a "meh" sort of way. There was some chemistry, but honestly, there was way more chemistry and excitement with the vibrators (thanks for the rose plug!). I was a little disappointed that after all the sexy talk and vibrator action, sex scenes were closed door. But it also made me feel like one of Nikki's friends, rather than being inside of Nikki's head, and the tone reflected that too. Very warm and friendly.
I wanted to give this four stars but because I really don't find it to be rom-com, I decided on three. But as a healing/breakup/wellness book. It was a beautiful story.
Thank you NetGalley for my e-copy.
February 18, 2022
The front cover actually pulled me to request this book and so I was thrilled when I got accepted this ARC. But unfortunately, this book wasn't my cup of tea.
Nikki was dating Bron and thought she was having a perfect life with a perfect job. But Bron breaks up with her and Nikki is left alone questioning about her relationship. With the help of her friend Alicia, she enrolls into a yoga class where she meets cute Mike. Soon their friendship blossomed and turns to romance until Bron gets back to her life.
OK, initially, I did enjoy the book a little bit. The story is told from Nikki's perspective and mainly, it talks about her friendship with her friends, how the romance developed between Mike and Nikki and her complicated relationship with her father, who seemed to want her to get back together with Bron. But as I reach in the middle, I felt like I was watching some really bad romantic comedy. First of all, why was her father hell bent and force Nikki to date Bron again? Too much dialogue and I found the story getting slightly boring but nonetheless I continued on. The ending, left me...well lower the rating. I did not like the ending at all. Despite these negative thoughts, I must say, I like the author's writing style so I really hope she will continue writing better romance novels in future as I suppose she is capable to writing.
Overall, this is nothing compared to Take a Hint Dani Brown by Talia Hibbert--slightly boring, a Hallmark cheesy romance novel. Worth 2.5 stars.
Nikki was dating Bron and thought she was having a perfect life with a perfect job. But Bron breaks up with her and Nikki is left alone questioning about her relationship. With the help of her friend Alicia, she enrolls into a yoga class where she meets cute Mike. Soon their friendship blossomed and turns to romance until Bron gets back to her life.
OK, initially, I did enjoy the book a little bit. The story is told from Nikki's perspective and mainly, it talks about her friendship with her friends, how the romance developed between Mike and Nikki and her complicated relationship with her father, who seemed to want her to get back together with Bron. But as I reach in the middle, I felt like I was watching some really bad romantic comedy. First of all, why was her father hell bent and force Nikki to date Bron again? Too much dialogue and I found the story getting slightly boring but nonetheless I continued on. The ending, left me...well lower the rating. I did not like the ending at all. Despite these negative thoughts, I must say, I like the author's writing style so I really hope she will continue writing better romance novels in future as I suppose she is capable to writing.
Overall, this is nothing compared to Take a Hint Dani Brown by Talia Hibbert--slightly boring, a Hallmark cheesy romance novel. Worth 2.5 stars.
March 16, 2022
I received this book free of charge from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
I really wanted to like this book. Unfortunately, I just couldn't bring myself to like it. I kept reevaluating how I was feeling about it as I listened to it and couldn't come up with much about it that I did like.
I'm no prude and I realize friendships look different, but I felt like the constant discussion of masturbation and sex toys seemed very exaggerated. I saw other reviews also mention the extremes of open sex talk with her friends but then trailing off when it came to bedroom scenes. I wouldn't know about the bedroom scenes because what it did include was just not what I prefer to read so I skipped any of that. I didn't expect so much sex talk in a book described as a romantic comedy. I expected it to be more lighthearted. If I had known this, I probably would not have chosen this book.
Also, there was sympathy created for the main character in parts and other parts I found her to just be annoying, controlling, and overbearing. And as someone who has been in interracial relationships, I felt like the way her relationship with Mike developed was based on every stereotype of interracial dating. I realize some people are uncomfortable or unfamiliar with it and will have questions and concerns about entering into an interracial relationship, but it seemed like the author just dumped every issue an interracial couple might experience over the course of a relationship into like two conversations.
Overall, the book seemed promising but just really did not deliver.
I really wanted to like this book. Unfortunately, I just couldn't bring myself to like it. I kept reevaluating how I was feeling about it as I listened to it and couldn't come up with much about it that I did like.
I'm no prude and I realize friendships look different, but I felt like the constant discussion of masturbation and sex toys seemed very exaggerated. I saw other reviews also mention the extremes of open sex talk with her friends but then trailing off when it came to bedroom scenes. I wouldn't know about the bedroom scenes because what it did include was just not what I prefer to read so I skipped any of that. I didn't expect so much sex talk in a book described as a romantic comedy. I expected it to be more lighthearted. If I had known this, I probably would not have chosen this book.
Also, there was sympathy created for the main character in parts and other parts I found her to just be annoying, controlling, and overbearing. And as someone who has been in interracial relationships, I felt like the way her relationship with Mike developed was based on every stereotype of interracial dating. I realize some people are uncomfortable or unfamiliar with it and will have questions and concerns about entering into an interracial relationship, but it seemed like the author just dumped every issue an interracial couple might experience over the course of a relationship into like two conversations.
Overall, the book seemed promising but just really did not deliver.
March 10, 2022
Synopsis:
Nikki has been in a relationship with Bron for over 3 years and he has suddenly decided that their relationship is boring and he leaves her. Nikki is forced out of her comfort zone when her friends encourage her to try new things to try find out who she is outside of a relationship. But there is a cute guy in the class, Mike, who seems to give Nikki a new perspective of life. Can you put aside their racial differences and perhaps become more intimate with him?
Opinion:
I quite enjoyed this book. It’s major theme is self discovery and finding out who you are after breaking up a long term relationship that defined you for so long. There was a lot of entertaining and uplifting moments where the MC had fun with her friends on holiday and with her love interest where she discovers how helpful yoga and the art of going with the flow can help her. I really enjoyed the supporting characters as they were full of life and added to the plot. The MC annoyed me at times due to her inability to stop overthinking and there was the sub theme of interracial relationships with her toxic family forcing her to get back with her ex due to the image it would have on the family rather than her new man who is white.
Overall, I think it was an uplifting and empowering read about finding yourself and how you don’t need a relationship to find inner peace. White Boyfriend is out now, it is available on Kindle Unlimited or as paperback too ✨
Nikki has been in a relationship with Bron for over 3 years and he has suddenly decided that their relationship is boring and he leaves her. Nikki is forced out of her comfort zone when her friends encourage her to try new things to try find out who she is outside of a relationship. But there is a cute guy in the class, Mike, who seems to give Nikki a new perspective of life. Can you put aside their racial differences and perhaps become more intimate with him?
Opinion:
I quite enjoyed this book. It’s major theme is self discovery and finding out who you are after breaking up a long term relationship that defined you for so long. There was a lot of entertaining and uplifting moments where the MC had fun with her friends on holiday and with her love interest where she discovers how helpful yoga and the art of going with the flow can help her. I really enjoyed the supporting characters as they were full of life and added to the plot. The MC annoyed me at times due to her inability to stop overthinking and there was the sub theme of interracial relationships with her toxic family forcing her to get back with her ex due to the image it would have on the family rather than her new man who is white.
Overall, I think it was an uplifting and empowering read about finding yourself and how you don’t need a relationship to find inner peace. White Boyfriend is out now, it is available on Kindle Unlimited or as paperback too ✨
March 3, 2022
I don’t think it’s a secret to say I don’t read a lot of Romance novels, but i am working to fulfill the prompts for the 2022 PopSugar Reading Challenge and one of the prompts is to read a romance novel by a BIPOC author.
I was drawn into the story early on when the main characters boyfriend dumps her in unexpectedly. She goes on a journey to heal and discover who she is as a single woman. Then along comes a white guy she meets at yoga. They have chemistry and the book follows them as they get to know each other.
There is a lot of talking and joking about spicy topics, but the doors are closed when things get hot. This book is about friends who always have your back, features a strong sibling relationships, and also has parent drama galore! As indicated by the title, this book looks at race and how it can impact dating.
Overall, the book was enjoyable, but the ending was a little flat for me. I think it was maybe trying to do too many things at once.
I listened to this one on audio, and enjoyed the narrator. Thanks to an AudioARC provided to be by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
I was drawn into the story early on when the main characters boyfriend dumps her in unexpectedly. She goes on a journey to heal and discover who she is as a single woman. Then along comes a white guy she meets at yoga. They have chemistry and the book follows them as they get to know each other.
There is a lot of talking and joking about spicy topics, but the doors are closed when things get hot. This book is about friends who always have your back, features a strong sibling relationships, and also has parent drama galore! As indicated by the title, this book looks at race and how it can impact dating.
Overall, the book was enjoyable, but the ending was a little flat for me. I think it was maybe trying to do too many things at once.
I listened to this one on audio, and enjoyed the narrator. Thanks to an AudioARC provided to be by NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
March 7, 2022
3 stars
Unfortunately, I wanted to like this one more than I actually did. It wasn’t terrible; it made me smile and chuckle a few times, which was nice. I was kind of back-and-forth on my feelings about the protagonist, and I didn’t care too much for either of her love interests. I did love her friends, though; they were a great mix of interesting side characters. In terms of the plot itself, it seems I keep picking up rom-coms with rather unconventional endings…in real life, I’m a big fan of people taking whatever time they need (months, years, whatever) to get to know and be happy with themselves, but honestly, if I pick up something that I think is going to be a rom-com, I really do want a traditional (read: romantic) happy ending. It wasn’t a bad conclusion, and the protagonist deserved better (or at least, different) than both of her in-story partners, but it just wasn’t what I wanted. Fun concept, some good writing, and generally good story, just not quite what I was hoping for or expecting here.
An ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately, I wanted to like this one more than I actually did. It wasn’t terrible; it made me smile and chuckle a few times, which was nice. I was kind of back-and-forth on my feelings about the protagonist, and I didn’t care too much for either of her love interests. I did love her friends, though; they were a great mix of interesting side characters. In terms of the plot itself, it seems I keep picking up rom-coms with rather unconventional endings…in real life, I’m a big fan of people taking whatever time they need (months, years, whatever) to get to know and be happy with themselves, but honestly, if I pick up something that I think is going to be a rom-com, I really do want a traditional (read: romantic) happy ending. It wasn’t a bad conclusion, and the protagonist deserved better (or at least, different) than both of her in-story partners, but it just wasn’t what I wanted. Fun concept, some good writing, and generally good story, just not quite what I was hoping for or expecting here.
An ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2022
At first glance Nikki is a successful woman with a good job, a happy home and a solid 5 year plan, but when her long term boyfriend breaks up with her she realizes she’s not as happy as she thought she was.
White Boyfriend is the story of Nikki finding herself and growing into that person. Backed by her 3 closest girlfriends Nikki starts her journey to find happiness. That true happiness with herself that comes from knowing yourself, balancing setting boundaries and stepping outside of your comfort zone.
During this journey she meets Mike, her complete opposite in personality. Where she’s organized and well planned he goes with the flow and doesn’t plan beyond today. He’s outdoorsy and adventurous while she’s more of a Netflix and chill kind of woman. The thing is the two have some undeniable chemistry…
Leesha McCoy has created a world of hilarious characters in this Chick Lit. book. The close knit group of women surrounding Nikki are supportive but able to give her a kick in the pants when she needs some tough love. The camaraderie really made the book a winner! Fingers crossed that we get a book 2 telling Alicia’s story!
White Boyfriend is the story of Nikki finding herself and growing into that person. Backed by her 3 closest girlfriends Nikki starts her journey to find happiness. That true happiness with herself that comes from knowing yourself, balancing setting boundaries and stepping outside of your comfort zone.
During this journey she meets Mike, her complete opposite in personality. Where she’s organized and well planned he goes with the flow and doesn’t plan beyond today. He’s outdoorsy and adventurous while she’s more of a Netflix and chill kind of woman. The thing is the two have some undeniable chemistry…
Leesha McCoy has created a world of hilarious characters in this Chick Lit. book. The close knit group of women surrounding Nikki are supportive but able to give her a kick in the pants when she needs some tough love. The camaraderie really made the book a winner! Fingers crossed that we get a book 2 telling Alicia’s story!
May 18, 2022
2.5 Stars for a misleading title
This story would have gotten more stars if the title hadn't been so misleading. This book was not a romance. It had some romantic elements, but there was no happily ever after. Also, this book was not particularly funny. Some parts were funny, but was not an overall funny book. And finally, Mike and Mini weren't an item for most of the book, nor did they end up together, so not sure it was called White Boyfriend. This book would have been more appropriate as a women's fiction or maybe chick lit story where the main character goes on a journey of self discovery and grows to be comfortable in her own skin.
Beyond the title of the book, the contents sometimes missed the mark for me. Their stereotype discussion, coming from a black woman, was baffling. If Mike had supposedly dated black women in the past wtf was that hair discussion? And Nikki asking about his circumcision status? The bleach in the dishwasher and the Dettol in the bath. Like what in the world????? Never even heard of those supposed stereotypes.
This story would have gotten more stars if the title hadn't been so misleading. This book was not a romance. It had some romantic elements, but there was no happily ever after. Also, this book was not particularly funny. Some parts were funny, but was not an overall funny book. And finally, Mike and Mini weren't an item for most of the book, nor did they end up together, so not sure it was called White Boyfriend. This book would have been more appropriate as a women's fiction or maybe chick lit story where the main character goes on a journey of self discovery and grows to be comfortable in her own skin.
Beyond the title of the book, the contents sometimes missed the mark for me. Their stereotype discussion, coming from a black woman, was baffling. If Mike had supposedly dated black women in the past wtf was that hair discussion? And Nikki asking about his circumcision status? The bleach in the dishwasher and the Dettol in the bath. Like what in the world????? Never even heard of those supposed stereotypes.
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