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The Sweet Spot: A Maple Hills Story
MP3 CD Format While trying to balance her family bakery, losing her mother and learning a few secrets is a lot for anyone, Amara was walking with the weight of the world on her shoulders. Trying to gain control of her life again seemed impossible but falling in love with her best friend might be what the doctor ordered.
Knowing what it's like to lose his parents and feel lost, Khalil promises Amara to stay by her side and help her through the pain. What he wasn't expecting was his feelings for her to grow stronger as well as their bond!
They say once one door closes, another opens, and Amara and Khalil are about to find out just how right that is.
Contains mature themes.
Knowing what it's like to lose his parents and feel lost, Khalil promises Amara to stay by her side and help her through the pain. What he wasn't expecting was his feelings for her to grow stronger as well as their bond!
They say once one door closes, another opens, and Amara and Khalil are about to find out just how right that is.
Contains mature themes.
1 pages, Audio CD
Published March 1, 2021
230 people are currently reading
225 people want to read
About the author
Tay Mo'Nae
98 books948 followersTay Mo'Nae is a 27-year-old Urban Romance author who pens about Black Love. She create stories to help her readers escape reality and create a movie in their head. She loves writing about characters that at least one reader can relate too.
With 50 books under her belt, Tay Mo'Nae hopes to gain at least one new reader with every release and have them connect to her characters and story in some way. If she would have to explain her writing she would say she loves "penning complicated characters that find a path to love".
With 50 books under her belt, Tay Mo'Nae hopes to gain at least one new reader with every release and have them connect to her characters and story in some way. If she would have to explain her writing she would say she loves "penning complicated characters that find a path to love".
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
April 9, 2021
This was a cute food based romance. I haven't seen any other books in the series so I'm hoping that the author comes back and writes the rest of the books.
The Sweet Spot is a childhood friends to loves romance with a foodie element specifically baking. Khalil and Amara grew up together and this book chronicles their time slowly falling in love with each other. One of the best elements about this book is that because they were childhood friends they already knew so much about each other that the romance didn't feel instantaneous or rushed. In the beginning, readers meet Amara as she comes to grips with the loss of her mother. She's not handling the loss well (I don't know many people that do) and she's losing confidence in herself and her life in general. She has taken over her mothers bakery and is working to do some redesigns. While in the process of her grieving, readers also meet Khalil who attempts to support Amara as she tries to get back on her feet. Honestly, it is in these attempts that Amara has the potential to come off as an annoying character. She doesn't see Khalil's affections or his attempts to love her and it can be frustrating to the reader; however, I do believe that her grief is blinding her to love and it has created a sense of fear of loving and losing. Amara is also dealing with some family secrets that cause her not to trust anything or anyone. For me, it created the perfect situation as to why she was unable to immediately fall in love with Khalil.
The romance between them builds slow and it's nice for them to work their minds around being best friends and lovers. Readers will root for them the entire way as they navigate the new meaning of their relationship. I found them to be engaging and truly supportive of each other. Khalil has also suffered great losses and it's the connection that he shares with Amara that helps him get through it. They were good for each other both in terms of their personal relationship as well as their business ventures. Khalil pushes Amara to be the best baker that she can be especially when she begins to have doubts about her skills. I love reading about relationships like this because it is something that I would want for myself in a romantic relationship: people who are not only lovers, but best friends. There is a different type of chemistry that exists between people like this. I'm truly hoping that we get more books in this series. There were some really interesting side characters that have potential to have some really great romances as well. Overall, it was good read and if you're looking for Black love romances that have a foodie element I would definitely recommend this one.
The Sweet Spot is a childhood friends to loves romance with a foodie element specifically baking. Khalil and Amara grew up together and this book chronicles their time slowly falling in love with each other. One of the best elements about this book is that because they were childhood friends they already knew so much about each other that the romance didn't feel instantaneous or rushed. In the beginning, readers meet Amara as she comes to grips with the loss of her mother. She's not handling the loss well (I don't know many people that do) and she's losing confidence in herself and her life in general. She has taken over her mothers bakery and is working to do some redesigns. While in the process of her grieving, readers also meet Khalil who attempts to support Amara as she tries to get back on her feet. Honestly, it is in these attempts that Amara has the potential to come off as an annoying character. She doesn't see Khalil's affections or his attempts to love her and it can be frustrating to the reader; however, I do believe that her grief is blinding her to love and it has created a sense of fear of loving and losing. Amara is also dealing with some family secrets that cause her not to trust anything or anyone. For me, it created the perfect situation as to why she was unable to immediately fall in love with Khalil.
The romance between them builds slow and it's nice for them to work their minds around being best friends and lovers. Readers will root for them the entire way as they navigate the new meaning of their relationship. I found them to be engaging and truly supportive of each other. Khalil has also suffered great losses and it's the connection that he shares with Amara that helps him get through it. They were good for each other both in terms of their personal relationship as well as their business ventures. Khalil pushes Amara to be the best baker that she can be especially when she begins to have doubts about her skills. I love reading about relationships like this because it is something that I would want for myself in a romantic relationship: people who are not only lovers, but best friends. There is a different type of chemistry that exists between people like this. I'm truly hoping that we get more books in this series. There were some really interesting side characters that have potential to have some really great romances as well. Overall, it was good read and if you're looking for Black love romances that have a foodie element I would definitely recommend this one.
February 3, 2021
Loved the book. Hated the heroine. Amara didn't just work my last nerve, she worked all of my nerves. I've never seen a character who was so oblivious to someone's affection for them. She was oblivious to the point of being deliberately obtuse. Amara is grieving the death of her mama and slowly but, surely, slipping into depression. Having lost his own parents some years ago, Khalil recognizes the signs so, he make sure he's a constant presence for Amara pretty much everyday to pull her out of her funk. Since she was already grieving the death of her mama, Kahlil figured he'd just snatch the band-aid off and shoot his shot. Well, that didn't go over too well for him. Amara told him she wasn't in a place where she could focus on a romantic relationship. Now, I don't have a problem with Amara not being ready for the dynamics of her and Khalil's relationship to change. I do, however, have a problem with her being deliberately blind to his attraction to her. It literally took more than half of the book before the blinders finally came off and that's only because Kaci sat her down for a woman to woman moment. By this point, I didn't like Amara. No one should have to work that hard to get you to see a man is attracted to you. I just wanted Khalil to find somebody else because, Amara did not deserve him. I didn't like her mama either. That shyt she pulled was foul. When Amara read the letter she left for her, I was giving mama all kinds of side eye. But, I was happy Amara finally reached out to her dad to have that long overdue conversation. Whew chile, these characters stressed me all the way out but I still loved the book. The Sweet Spot was an endearing read. It takes you on an emotional rollercoaster of grief, sorrow, and family secrets. I look forward to reading the other books in the Maple Hills series. I just hope Kaci and Bianca don't stress me out as much as Amara did.
February 25, 2021
This was a cute story....I actually love the dynamic between Khalil & Amara being best friends that slowly fall in love with one another....I appreciated the way he anticipated all of her needs. I also completely understood her not wanting to ruin their friendship with the romantic relationship didn't work. But, I felt that they simply needed to talk to one another....it funny to me how people on the outside of a situation have a much better view than those that are involved. I love how Kacy & Amara sisterhood played an integral part of each others lives. It was beautiful to see how both Kacy & Khalil recognized Amara slipping into a depression and they did what the could to aide her. I really enjoyed the emotional journey we went on as reader/listeners...I wished we could have experienced more of the budding relationship between Amara & Marvin (Her Father)....I love how the relationship between all of the friends (both men & women) and how they got together to hang out socially.....this story really makes me excited to see what's coming next in the Maple Hill Story. OK...So Y'all know I loved Wesleigh's narration/acting ability, BUT, Leon Nixon not so much...I understood that we were suppose to go on an emotional ride, but all of his narration just sounded sad to me...even the parts they were suppose to be happy. **For Me Wesleigh To The Rescue**
June 14, 2023
Amara x Khalil
When I say I want a mushy love story, this is what I mean. The Sweet Spot definitely hit a sweet spot. Amara was a baker who was dealing with the recent death of her mother. Her death was accompanied by some secret she was not ready for. Sis was spiraling and slipping into a dark hole of depression. She and Khalil had been the best of friends forever, and he was her light in this dark season in her life. It was so beautiful to see that the moment she allowed him to be there for her, the load she carried became lighter. Khalil did such a beautiful job being there for her cause he, too, had to deal with losing his loved ones. He loved her beautifully. This was the perfect light read I needed.
When I say I want a mushy love story, this is what I mean. The Sweet Spot definitely hit a sweet spot. Amara was a baker who was dealing with the recent death of her mother. Her death was accompanied by some secret she was not ready for. Sis was spiraling and slipping into a dark hole of depression. She and Khalil had been the best of friends forever, and he was her light in this dark season in her life. It was so beautiful to see that the moment she allowed him to be there for her, the load she carried became lighter. Khalil did such a beautiful job being there for her cause he, too, had to deal with losing his loved ones. He loved her beautifully. This was the perfect light read I needed.
August 13, 2020
I finished a book! I'm just so happy to have done it and maybe that means that I can return to reading books and not take 12 days to do so. I'm not surprised a baker romance brought me back because I really do love a baker romance A LOT.
The Sweet Spot drew me in with the pink cover, for sure. I love pink and all the pink covers make me want to buy them so I did. Plus when the author teased us that it was going to be a best friends to lovers romance, you know me, I was first in line. That trope has really grown on me wow. Who would have thought! So this book is about Amara and Khalil (dual POV), two best friends who are have a crush on each other. Though Amara has been trying to put that aside all her life because she doesn't want to lose him if they break up or something.
But what starts off this novel is Amara losing her mom, I think two months prior to the novel. So she's grieving and can't seem to get up in the mornings, doesn't want to go to the bakery, feels like her world is destroyed. Khalil and her other best friend Kaci are always there for her and I love seeing them support her and help her in whatever she needs. Khalil feels like he can help Amara on trying to continue and moving on because he has also lost his parents in a fire when he was younger.
Khalil gives SO MUCH. At one point I really was like Amara doesn't appreciate him and she keeps putting him at a distance when Khalil has done everything AND BEYOND for her and never asking for anything in return. But I'm glad that she realizes this and fixes really quickly, even having a takl with him and saying to him that she will also support him and she is there for him. She has taken him for granted for a very long time and when Khalil finally makes his move, only for Amara to ignore him for a while, I understand that he had to take a bit to lick his wounds.
The foodie aspect of the book was superb. All the food, all the baked goods, all the sweets. IN DETAIL. And they sound delicious. Cupcakes everywhere! Cakes! I'm in heaven. There is also a sort of Cupcake Wars competition at some point in the novel and I was excited about it! I always love baking competitions in romance and it was a cute element to the book because Khalil was there to help her cook. (He was pretty sexy cooking hmmm).
One thing I will say is, at the beginning, Khalil kept referring to girls like "female" which I do not like *remembers SJM books*. But I think it's only mentioned twice, and it was only in the second chapter? So I soon forgot about it because I never saw him think about them like that again so that's okay!
I'm definitely excited for more. Amara and Khalil have other cute friends in Maple Hills and they are... single, I think? Kaci deserves the world!!!! KACI FAN HERE.
TW: death of a parent (cancer) prior to the novel, Khalil's parents also died in a fire prior to the novel but he keeps having these dreams where he is inside the house and they're pretty intense!
The Sweet Spot drew me in with the pink cover, for sure. I love pink and all the pink covers make me want to buy them so I did. Plus when the author teased us that it was going to be a best friends to lovers romance, you know me, I was first in line. That trope has really grown on me wow. Who would have thought! So this book is about Amara and Khalil (dual POV), two best friends who are have a crush on each other. Though Amara has been trying to put that aside all her life because she doesn't want to lose him if they break up or something.
But what starts off this novel is Amara losing her mom, I think two months prior to the novel. So she's grieving and can't seem to get up in the mornings, doesn't want to go to the bakery, feels like her world is destroyed. Khalil and her other best friend Kaci are always there for her and I love seeing them support her and help her in whatever she needs. Khalil feels like he can help Amara on trying to continue and moving on because he has also lost his parents in a fire when he was younger.
Khalil gives SO MUCH. At one point I really was like Amara doesn't appreciate him and she keeps putting him at a distance when Khalil has done everything AND BEYOND for her and never asking for anything in return. But I'm glad that she realizes this and fixes really quickly, even having a takl with him and saying to him that she will also support him and she is there for him. She has taken him for granted for a very long time and when Khalil finally makes his move, only for Amara to ignore him for a while, I understand that he had to take a bit to lick his wounds.
The foodie aspect of the book was superb. All the food, all the baked goods, all the sweets. IN DETAIL. And they sound delicious. Cupcakes everywhere! Cakes! I'm in heaven. There is also a sort of Cupcake Wars competition at some point in the novel and I was excited about it! I always love baking competitions in romance and it was a cute element to the book because Khalil was there to help her cook. (He was pretty sexy cooking hmmm).
One thing I will say is, at the beginning, Khalil kept referring to girls like "female" which I do not like *remembers SJM books*. But I think it's only mentioned twice, and it was only in the second chapter? So I soon forgot about it because I never saw him think about them like that again so that's okay!
I'm definitely excited for more. Amara and Khalil have other cute friends in Maple Hills and they are... single, I think? Kaci deserves the world!!!! KACI FAN HERE.
TW: death of a parent (cancer) prior to the novel, Khalil's parents also died in a fire prior to the novel but he keeps having these dreams where he is inside the house and they're pretty intense!
May 20, 2022
This was a cute little wholesome read. I’m shocked that Tay Mo’nae wrote it because it seems soooo different from what I’m used to reading from her. Amara was a bit too indecisive on this friends to lovers journey. She made things more difficult than they needed them to be before giving Khalil a chance. Overall the story was good. Short sweet (no pun intended) and to the point.
August 24, 2024
Amara was struggling with grief but she had great friends who were there for her. Khalil had been her best friend since they were kids. Neither one wanted to admit that they wanted more than friendship. I enjoyed their story.
February 10, 2021
This was a cute story by new to me author, Tay Mo'nae. I've always been a sucker for a friends to lovers trope and this was good. Now, Amari did annoy me a bit when she kept pushing Khalil away and being so naive. Like, how are you still questioning his feelings after he ate your "cupcake"? Like, really? I'm just glad Kacie (her bff) talked some sense into her! After she realized her true feelings and gave Khalil a chance, the story just flowed. I can't wait for the next stories from Maple Hill...Kacie needs her story and HEA! Narration was great too! Leon Nixon did his thing as Khalil, but Wesleigh Siobhan killed it! I think I'm in love with her male voice!
February 20, 2025
The story was so cute and covered grief. The FMC was so hard to like because she was very selfish.
March 6, 2022
I was just not having a good time with this one and I really can't understand how it has such a high rating.
The whole book felt like it was a set up for a big series as it constantly described businesses in town and the history between characters. I had to skim so much of the explanations because they really didn't matter to the story this book was meant to tell.
I don't mind friends to lovers but I really didn't like Amara and how she was so utterly oblivious to Khalil's feelings and then so hesitant once they got together. It was just hot and cold with her all the time, and I know her grief is meant to explain that but she acts completely different where Khalil is concerned (and not in a good way). She honestly came off as being 17-18 sometimes with how naïve she was.
The grief talk was occasionally good but sometimes it got a little strange. Also, the book came off as 'being in a relationship will fix things'.
The whole book felt like it was a set up for a big series as it constantly described businesses in town and the history between characters. I had to skim so much of the explanations because they really didn't matter to the story this book was meant to tell.
I don't mind friends to lovers but I really didn't like Amara and how she was so utterly oblivious to Khalil's feelings and then so hesitant once they got together. It was just hot and cold with her all the time, and I know her grief is meant to explain that but she acts completely different where Khalil is concerned (and not in a good way). She honestly came off as being 17-18 sometimes with how naïve she was.
The grief talk was occasionally good but sometimes it got a little strange. Also, the book came off as 'being in a relationship will fix things'.
August 25, 2023
Amara and Khalil are best friends and he always has her back. But he's also fallen in love with her somewhere along the way and doesn't know how to tell her, or see if she feels it too. And with the passing of her mother, grief makes giving her heart even harder for Amara.
This was such a sweet story. To be ushered in by grief was an emotional start, but seeing all of the support Amara had was nice. Her cousin and Khalil kept her from slipping away and I loved that part of the story. The love story itself was fraught with all of the complication that is normal for someone in mourning realizing that they're also in love. It was poignant seeing Khalil's grief as well, and it was a satisfying connecting point for them. Seeing Amara come into her own, reconcile her past and present and also make sure that she poured into Khalil the way he always poured into her felt good. It was a complete arc for her and I loved her development, as rocky as it sometimes was. The relationship with her father was a nice plot point that didn't distract from Amara and Khalil realizing their forever love. I liked this so much.
This was such a sweet story. To be ushered in by grief was an emotional start, but seeing all of the support Amara had was nice. Her cousin and Khalil kept her from slipping away and I loved that part of the story. The love story itself was fraught with all of the complication that is normal for someone in mourning realizing that they're also in love. It was poignant seeing Khalil's grief as well, and it was a satisfying connecting point for them. Seeing Amara come into her own, reconcile her past and present and also make sure that she poured into Khalil the way he always poured into her felt good. It was a complete arc for her and I loved her development, as rocky as it sometimes was. The relationship with her father was a nice plot point that didn't distract from Amara and Khalil realizing their forever love. I liked this so much.
June 21, 2025
This was a cute best friends to lovers story. There is parental loss experienced by both main characters. This is mentioned throughout the book, so you are sensitive to that topic, this book may not be for you.
Amara has lost her mom after her mom hid her cancer diagnosis along with another big secret. Khalil lost his parents in a house fire years ago, but Amara helped him through it and he is trying to return the favor.
It was a really sweet and emotional story.
Amara has lost her mom after her mom hid her cancer diagnosis along with another big secret. Khalil lost his parents in a house fire years ago, but Amara helped him through it and he is trying to return the favor.
It was a really sweet and emotional story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2021
Small town childhood friends to lover romance. Very sweet. I do think the friendships dynamics felt unbalanced. Amara is spoiled. Granted, she lost her mom, so it's normal she's the center of everyone's attention... I just didn't get to see how she actually holds up to the sweet and naïve image and reciprocate. The talks around grief were interesting. All in all, it was a nice and sweet read.
December 17, 2023
Audio -
best friends to lovers. Not over the top drama and no edge of your seat situations. Just short and sweet with a small surprise for the heroine at the end. May read the next.
best friends to lovers. Not over the top drama and no edge of your seat situations. Just short and sweet with a small surprise for the heroine at the end. May read the next.
February 11, 2022
The Sweet Spot: A Maple Hills Story by Tay Mo’Nae
Rating: 4 Stars
Format: Audiobook
Source: Scribd
Prompt: Mood read
Rep: Black author, Black main characters
Triggers: Death of loved ones (hero and heroine family members)
TL;DR Synopsis:
♡ Super sweet small town contemporary romance
♡ Friends-to-lovers
♡ Bakery-owner heroine
♡ Worshiping cinnamon roll hero
♡ Novella
This book was so sweet and such a perfect palette cleanser for those of us who love cinnamon roll heroes who adore the heroine.
Rating: 4 Stars
Format: Audiobook
Source: Scribd
Prompt: Mood read
Rep: Black author, Black main characters
Triggers: Death of loved ones (hero and heroine family members)
TL;DR Synopsis:
♡ Super sweet small town contemporary romance
♡ Friends-to-lovers
♡ Bakery-owner heroine
♡ Worshiping cinnamon roll hero
♡ Novella
This book was so sweet and such a perfect palette cleanser for those of us who love cinnamon roll heroes who adore the heroine.
March 10, 2021
This was such a great and quick read. Thoughts to come!
November 2, 2023
This was short enough to try a new to me author. Unfortunately, this is not the author for me. I disliked the writing — too much telling, not showing, the descriptions do not match to the character behavior. The characters are flat and the story has that paint-by-numbers 'look'. Nothing seems natural — not even the friendship between the heroine and her best friend.
Aside from that, the book has all the flaws of the 'friends to lovers' trope — where the guy pretends to be a friend until he sees a weakness and exploits it to get into the girl's pants, subsequently withdrawing his friendship until she agrees to a full relationship without being ready for it. But, of course, 'magical sex' fixes everything... Yuck.
All the while, he and the heroine's best friend continuously abuse their 'friend' status and make decisions for her, forcing her to deal with the consequences. But she should be grateful for it all, because 'they have her best interests at heart'. No. Just, no.
I started this book with very low expectations, but it kept getting progressively worse in every aspect of it. It's not the worst piece of writing out there — not by any stretch, but at the same time, this is the only positive thing I can say about it.
I am deeply surprised by the high rating though.
Aside from that, the book has all the flaws of the 'friends to lovers' trope — where the guy pretends to be a friend until he sees a weakness and exploits it to get into the girl's pants, subsequently withdrawing his friendship until she agrees to a full relationship without being ready for it. But, of course, 'magical sex' fixes everything... Yuck.
All the while, he and the heroine's best friend continuously abuse their 'friend' status and make decisions for her, forcing her to deal with the consequences. But she should be grateful for it all, because 'they have her best interests at heart'. No. Just, no.
I started this book with very low expectations, but it kept getting progressively worse in every aspect of it. It's not the worst piece of writing out there — not by any stretch, but at the same time, this is the only positive thing I can say about it.
I am deeply surprised by the high rating though.
September 27, 2022
Sweet
This read a bit slow for me, yet I like that the time to process a loved ones passing was done so gracefully. Amara and Khalil were both dealing with losing a parent or two and they each helped to heal the other. Sweet.
Amara was pretty oblivious to how Khalil felt for her, past being her best friend. I'm glad she had her other best friend, Kaci to help her see the error of her ways when it came to Khalil. He was a great guy and for a minute I was thinking he just needed to move on, yet I'm glad it all worked out for these two in the end.
I get all of Amara's anger and hurt towards her mom. She should've been honest with her about her dad and sickness. Still side eyeing both situations, yet there's no point in holding on to it now that she's gone. I'm glad that Amara gave her dad a chance. They both need each other and I can see them forming a beautiful relationship.
I loved the baking premise of the book. Amara being handed the Sweet Spot, a shop that was started by her Nana, then ran by her mother, now her, was so lovely. Loved the generational passing down of a love that bonded them all. Since I've read other books and know that Amara continues to thrive at the shop, I love that she finally went back and moved forward with it all.
Khalil was about as great a guy as can get. He was hurting, yet ensured his best friend and the woman he'd loved for most of his life, was getting the support she needed. He was 100% justified in ignoring Amara after she dodged him once he revealed his true feelings for her. I get her needing a minute to process it all, yet this isn't some random dude, it's your bff and to blow him off like she did was foul. They eventually get it together, but geez.
I hate that Khalil feels like his parents passing was one he should've been a part of. He was carrying a lot of guilt around and although he was trying to bear it all by himself, I'm glad he let Amara be a shoulder he could lean on, the same as he'd been for her. He deserves peace and an unshakeable love, so I'm glad she saw her selfish ways and was there for him too.
I like that we get to see a glimpse of Zavion in this one. Even with me already having read his story, I was intrigued.
All of the friends, Rynell, Bianca, Kaci, etc seem like a fun group and I hope there's more on each of them in books to come.
This was a good read. I'm liking Maple Hills.
This read a bit slow for me, yet I like that the time to process a loved ones passing was done so gracefully. Amara and Khalil were both dealing with losing a parent or two and they each helped to heal the other. Sweet.
Amara was pretty oblivious to how Khalil felt for her, past being her best friend. I'm glad she had her other best friend, Kaci to help her see the error of her ways when it came to Khalil. He was a great guy and for a minute I was thinking he just needed to move on, yet I'm glad it all worked out for these two in the end.
I get all of Amara's anger and hurt towards her mom. She should've been honest with her about her dad and sickness. Still side eyeing both situations, yet there's no point in holding on to it now that she's gone. I'm glad that Amara gave her dad a chance. They both need each other and I can see them forming a beautiful relationship.
I loved the baking premise of the book. Amara being handed the Sweet Spot, a shop that was started by her Nana, then ran by her mother, now her, was so lovely. Loved the generational passing down of a love that bonded them all. Since I've read other books and know that Amara continues to thrive at the shop, I love that she finally went back and moved forward with it all.
Khalil was about as great a guy as can get. He was hurting, yet ensured his best friend and the woman he'd loved for most of his life, was getting the support she needed. He was 100% justified in ignoring Amara after she dodged him once he revealed his true feelings for her. I get her needing a minute to process it all, yet this isn't some random dude, it's your bff and to blow him off like she did was foul. They eventually get it together, but geez.
I hate that Khalil feels like his parents passing was one he should've been a part of. He was carrying a lot of guilt around and although he was trying to bear it all by himself, I'm glad he let Amara be a shoulder he could lean on, the same as he'd been for her. He deserves peace and an unshakeable love, so I'm glad she saw her selfish ways and was there for him too.
I like that we get to see a glimpse of Zavion in this one. Even with me already having read his story, I was intrigued.
All of the friends, Rynell, Bianca, Kaci, etc seem like a fun group and I hope there's more on each of them in books to come.
This was a good read. I'm liking Maple Hills.
June 10, 2021
Black love romance. And I’m here for it.
The Sweet Spot is about Amara and Khalil. 2 people that have been best friend’s for years. Unfortunately for Khalil his heart aches for more. But his timing is not so great. Amara is trying to get over the loss of her mother. But when passion takes over can they really go back to being “just friends”.
It’s the will they wont they. Now’s the time; no wait now’s the time. And the push and pull that happens between these 2 characters that keeps you hooked. Everyone else seems to know what’s up except them. But you never know what might happen in the Sweet Spot.
So I gave this book 3 stars because while it is a cute romance, the 2 main characters have other trauma that they need to deal with. And it’s ultimately that trauma that makes them realize their feelings for each other. I’m not here for the trauma bonding. Yes its only a book but in reality Khalil needs to go to a counselor or a psychologist to get over the death of his parents.
The cup cake wars competition, honestly to me was not needed. I forgot that was even mentioned in the story until they brought it up again at the end. The outcome of the competition was typical. I mean I know it was moment Amara fell in love with backing again after the death of her mom, but honestly I personally feel it wasn’t needed.
This is nothing serious but I realized that the author has this thing with lips. I don’t know if the author finds lips sexy or if it’s a turn on for them but there was a lot of descriptions that have to do with lip licking or nibbling. Her are some examples:
page 70 “Licking my lips, I watched her lay lazily on the back and close her eyes.” “I brought the corner of my bottom lip into my mouth. Something was telling me to turn Amara down and walk her home.”
Page 79 “I shifted my eyes to the side and nibbled on my bottom lip.”
Page 85 “I nibbled on the corner of bottom lip.”
Page 94 “She looked at me, pulling on her bottom lip. I licked my lips. I could practically see her heart pounding in her chest with anticipation of my answer.”
Page 118 “I licked my lips, and with shaking hands I ripped the envelope open.”
And that’s just a few. Like I said doesn’t take away from the story but when you see it you can’t unsee it.
The Sweet Spot is about Amara and Khalil. 2 people that have been best friend’s for years. Unfortunately for Khalil his heart aches for more. But his timing is not so great. Amara is trying to get over the loss of her mother. But when passion takes over can they really go back to being “just friends”.
It’s the will they wont they. Now’s the time; no wait now’s the time. And the push and pull that happens between these 2 characters that keeps you hooked. Everyone else seems to know what’s up except them. But you never know what might happen in the Sweet Spot.
So I gave this book 3 stars because while it is a cute romance, the 2 main characters have other trauma that they need to deal with. And it’s ultimately that trauma that makes them realize their feelings for each other. I’m not here for the trauma bonding. Yes its only a book but in reality Khalil needs to go to a counselor or a psychologist to get over the death of his parents.
The cup cake wars competition, honestly to me was not needed. I forgot that was even mentioned in the story until they brought it up again at the end. The outcome of the competition was typical. I mean I know it was moment Amara fell in love with backing again after the death of her mom, but honestly I personally feel it wasn’t needed.
This is nothing serious but I realized that the author has this thing with lips. I don’t know if the author finds lips sexy or if it’s a turn on for them but there was a lot of descriptions that have to do with lip licking or nibbling. Her are some examples:
page 70 “Licking my lips, I watched her lay lazily on the back and close her eyes.” “I brought the corner of my bottom lip into my mouth. Something was telling me to turn Amara down and walk her home.”
Page 79 “I shifted my eyes to the side and nibbled on my bottom lip.”
Page 85 “I nibbled on the corner of bottom lip.”
Page 94 “She looked at me, pulling on her bottom lip. I licked my lips. I could practically see her heart pounding in her chest with anticipation of my answer.”
Page 118 “I licked my lips, and with shaking hands I ripped the envelope open.”
And that’s just a few. Like I said doesn’t take away from the story but when you see it you can’t unsee it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 16, 2020
Tell Me Again That We Can Be Lovers And Friends
I like the fact that Khalil and Amara had been friends since they were kids and that they were both in love with each other but they didn't want to possibly loose their friendship. Grieving over the same things pulled them closer together and the bond that they had allowed them feel each other's pain. Amara was getting on my nerves running from Khalil and I was glad when they connected in more ways than one. I'm glad that Amara met her father and allowed him to be a part of her life since her mom denied them both of that. I kind of see Kaci and Rynell and Bianca and Chad getting together and I can't wait to read more about Zavion, Khalil's friend and tattoo artist. I can't wait to read &then there was you because it seems like desperate times are going to call for desperate measures with Sevyn getting her past due rent and cellphone bill paid.
I like the fact that Khalil and Amara had been friends since they were kids and that they were both in love with each other but they didn't want to possibly loose their friendship. Grieving over the same things pulled them closer together and the bond that they had allowed them feel each other's pain. Amara was getting on my nerves running from Khalil and I was glad when they connected in more ways than one. I'm glad that Amara met her father and allowed him to be a part of her life since her mom denied them both of that. I kind of see Kaci and Rynell and Bianca and Chad getting together and I can't wait to read more about Zavion, Khalil's friend and tattoo artist. I can't wait to read &then there was you because it seems like desperate times are going to call for desperate measures with Sevyn getting her past due rent and cellphone bill paid.
September 17, 2021
This is another first for me and I enjoyed it. I am looking forward to other stories that come from Maple Hills. It seems like a small country town with thriving businesses where everyone knows everyone.
Khalil and Amara were destined to be together. They have been in love with each other since they were teenagers. The way Khalil was there for Amara threw it all showed just how much he loved her. Amara started to pull her strength and independence after a while. Her two best friends, Khalil and Kace were determined to not let her fall into a deep depression. She also realized that she still had her mother and grandmother spirit living within her.
This was quite an inspirational read because not only were Khalil there for Amara, but she was there for him as well. As they progressed together, they learned how to heal and navigate through grief. I was glad that Amara gained a parent through it all. This is a magnificent read and I most definitely recommend it.
Khalil and Amara were destined to be together. They have been in love with each other since they were teenagers. The way Khalil was there for Amara threw it all showed just how much he loved her. Amara started to pull her strength and independence after a while. Her two best friends, Khalil and Kace were determined to not let her fall into a deep depression. She also realized that she still had her mother and grandmother spirit living within her.
This was quite an inspirational read because not only were Khalil there for Amara, but she was there for him as well. As they progressed together, they learned how to heal and navigate through grief. I was glad that Amara gained a parent through it all. This is a magnificent read and I most definitely recommend it.
October 3, 2024
I liked this a lot. It was a super sweet and cute read. Nothing like a friend’s to lovers book. With heartbreak and trauma trying to get the best of both Amara and Khalil. Both are now only left with friends as support systems.
However the two have been friends since they were in elementary school never crossing the line to be sure not to miss out on the friend ship. I love have Khalil loved on Amara without being asked and needing a reason to just be there for her when she was not able to be there for herself. He seen the signs that would have lead her down the same path that he once was on.
The two were called out by everyone around them that they knew the two were meant to be and though Khalil was not denying it Amara was the one that was completely oblivious. Once she was able to let her self feel and speak on her feelings it was everything. She didn’t have to say much because Khalil had already in so many ways been saying what he was feeling.
However the two have been friends since they were in elementary school never crossing the line to be sure not to miss out on the friend ship. I love have Khalil loved on Amara without being asked and needing a reason to just be there for her when she was not able to be there for herself. He seen the signs that would have lead her down the same path that he once was on.
The two were called out by everyone around them that they knew the two were meant to be and though Khalil was not denying it Amara was the one that was completely oblivious. Once she was able to let her self feel and speak on her feelings it was everything. She didn’t have to say much because Khalil had already in so many ways been saying what he was feeling.
August 18, 2020
I am loving Maple Hills! I felt for Amara and the loss that she was dealing with. Losing a parent, is one of the hardest things that one endures in life. Having a strong support is essential to dealing with grief, and healing. Khalil, was everything! Although still dealing with memories of his own trauma, he made time to be there for Amara, to help her in anyway that he could. These two have held feelings for each other forever, but had yet to reveal them to the other. Leaning on, and supporting each other while dealing with grief, gave them the opportunity to let the love shine through. Amara, was hard headed and naive, not wanting to give into her feelings. Khalil, was always vulnerable and put himself out there. After a rough patch, they finally got on the same page, and their love was beautiful. It was always meant to be! Great read! 👍👍👍
March 29, 2021
🧁
Put this sweet & sexy romance on your TBR now!
🎉
This is my first book by Tay Mo’Nae & I just loved it. The audio performance is fantastic with alternating narrators. Of course, I love the setting of a family owned bakery.
🥰
Now, I know enemies to lovers gets a ton of love, but do not forget about my favorite friends to lovers! With this trope, I think there just so much depth, intimacy and more that comes from a romance between two friends. Cue all the stomach flips and swooning with this one.
🧁
I also want to mention that Mo’Nae does a really stellar job writing about two characters both dealing with grief of losing parents. She handles these topics in an upfront and honest way that really adds to the relationship between the main characters.
🔥
Oh, and yes there is definitely open door romance! Loved this one!
Put this sweet & sexy romance on your TBR now!
🎉
This is my first book by Tay Mo’Nae & I just loved it. The audio performance is fantastic with alternating narrators. Of course, I love the setting of a family owned bakery.
🥰
Now, I know enemies to lovers gets a ton of love, but do not forget about my favorite friends to lovers! With this trope, I think there just so much depth, intimacy and more that comes from a romance between two friends. Cue all the stomach flips and swooning with this one.
🧁
I also want to mention that Mo’Nae does a really stellar job writing about two characters both dealing with grief of losing parents. She handles these topics in an upfront and honest way that really adds to the relationship between the main characters.
🔥
Oh, and yes there is definitely open door romance! Loved this one!
November 4, 2024
The Sweet Spot: A Maple Hills Story by Tay Mo'Nae is a lighthearted romance that follows two characters who cross paths in the charming town of Maple Hills. Their journey explores the ups and downs of falling in love, with moments of humor, warmth, and small-town charm. As they navigate the challenges of their individual lives and learn to trust each other, the story unfolds with gentle twists that bring them closer together. It’s a feel-good romance centered around connection, growth, and finding love in unexpected places.
The Sweet Spot was a cute romance story, though it didn’t stand out to me personally. The characters were likable, and the small-town setting added a nice touch, but I found it to be a pretty straightforward romance without anything extraordinary. It was an enjoyable, feel-good read, perfect if you’re in the mood for something light and sweet, but it didn’t leave a lasting impression on me.
The Sweet Spot was a cute romance story, though it didn’t stand out to me personally. The characters were likable, and the small-town setting added a nice touch, but I found it to be a pretty straightforward romance without anything extraordinary. It was an enjoyable, feel-good read, perfect if you’re in the mood for something light and sweet, but it didn’t leave a lasting impression on me.
September 4, 2020
Loved it!
This was such a cute friends to lovers story. ❤️I found myself sympathizing with Amara so much. Mainly with the way that she was dealing with the loss of her mom. I thought the way that Khalil was there for Amara, even while dealing with his own issues was pretty heroic. The entire vibe of the book was really good- it was just an overall feel good story that I really liked. It was so obvious that Khalil wanted Amara in a, “more than friends” way but Amara was missing all the signs, lol. Every time I would think, “okay, this is it!” Amara would mess up and the inevitable was delayed. But, I will say, Khalil and Amara’s relationship was solidified when it was time and it wasn’t rushed. I am looking forward to more of this series. Very good read!!
This was such a cute friends to lovers story. ❤️I found myself sympathizing with Amara so much. Mainly with the way that she was dealing with the loss of her mom. I thought the way that Khalil was there for Amara, even while dealing with his own issues was pretty heroic. The entire vibe of the book was really good- it was just an overall feel good story that I really liked. It was so obvious that Khalil wanted Amara in a, “more than friends” way but Amara was missing all the signs, lol. Every time I would think, “okay, this is it!” Amara would mess up and the inevitable was delayed. But, I will say, Khalil and Amara’s relationship was solidified when it was time and it wasn’t rushed. I am looking forward to more of this series. Very good read!!
December 29, 2020
The Sweet Spot
Whew, Khalil sure had a lot of patience with Amara. I understood she was grieving but her being so naive was too funny. She was constantly downplaying her feelings for Khalil and was too blinded to realize they were mutual. Kaci was a great friend and wanted the best for Amara just as much as Khalil did. Marvin was a shocker and I was happy when Amara found the letter from her mom explaining everything. I just knew Khalil wouldn't give Amara the chance to make things right but I was glad she realized her mistakes. Amara and Khalil both had to deal with great losses but helped each other get through it. It was long overdue for Amara to be there for Khalil like he'd always done for her. Through it all happiness came about in the end. Khalil and Amara both stopped running from their feelings and Amara got the opportunity to build with Marvin.
Whew, Khalil sure had a lot of patience with Amara. I understood she was grieving but her being so naive was too funny. She was constantly downplaying her feelings for Khalil and was too blinded to realize they were mutual. Kaci was a great friend and wanted the best for Amara just as much as Khalil did. Marvin was a shocker and I was happy when Amara found the letter from her mom explaining everything. I just knew Khalil wouldn't give Amara the chance to make things right but I was glad she realized her mistakes. Amara and Khalil both had to deal with great losses but helped each other get through it. It was long overdue for Amara to be there for Khalil like he'd always done for her. Through it all happiness came about in the end. Khalil and Amara both stopped running from their feelings and Amara got the opportunity to build with Marvin.
February 15, 2022
🥺
This was sweet and cute and I really enjoyed it.
Amara and Khalil are both grieving the loss of a parent(s) and doing it their own way.
I love how Khalil is always there for her and not letting her slip into a deep depression. Khalil was in love with Amara and she was feeling him too. I’m glad they finally acted on those feelings it was clear to everybody that they were in love with each other.
I can’t believe her mom lied about her dad her whole life. I like that she decided to meet up with him and give him a chance.
The constant mentioning of the parents deaths was emotional for me because I’ve been there once.
This author is really dope I love her style of writing 👏🏾
This was sweet and cute and I really enjoyed it.
Amara and Khalil are both grieving the loss of a parent(s) and doing it their own way.
I love how Khalil is always there for her and not letting her slip into a deep depression. Khalil was in love with Amara and she was feeling him too. I’m glad they finally acted on those feelings it was clear to everybody that they were in love with each other.
I can’t believe her mom lied about her dad her whole life. I like that she decided to meet up with him and give him a chance.
The constant mentioning of the parents deaths was emotional for me because I’ve been there once.
This author is really dope I love her style of writing 👏🏾
February 27, 2025
I feel bad for Amara. I can relate. But I also feel bad for Khalil. After his dream, I know that Amara triggered him. And that's not good. She causes him to bring up memories and nightmares amthat he worked past and some he even suppressed. But being in a sad place with her, she has caused him to relive these sad events.
I love how Kaci helped her to see what she was blind to . And when Khalil boys clowned him, one of them gave him "real talk". That's what friends are for.
The information she received from her mom was devastating 😔. I would have been pissed. I hate when parents keep secrets to "protect" the child. And only damage them more in the end.
I'm glad she was able to resolve issues with her past and figure things out.
I love how Kaci helped her to see what she was blind to . And when Khalil boys clowned him, one of them gave him "real talk". That's what friends are for.
The information she received from her mom was devastating 😔. I would have been pissed. I hate when parents keep secrets to "protect" the child. And only damage them more in the end.
I'm glad she was able to resolve issues with her past and figure things out.
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