A review by lyloveslit
Stay with Me by Alexandria House

hopeful lighthearted reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

“Stay With Me” by Alexandria House is a captivating contemporary romance novel that dives deep into the complexities of love, trust, and vulnerability. Centered around Angela, a successful natural hair vlogger known as 4C Angie, the story explores her journey as a social media icon who has sworn off love due to past heartbreaks. Despite her flourishing career and strong influence within the natural hair community, Angela’s personal life is marred by the scars of previous relationships that she deems were a waste of eleven years of her life.

The narrative takes an intriguing turn with the entrance of Ryan, a charming Creole man with a captivating accent and a reputation as a player. Like Angela, Ryan is also averse to love, setting the stage for a compelling dynamic between the two. Their initial commitment to steer clear of emotional entanglements quickly falters as they find themselves irresistibly drawn to each other, challenging their preconceived notions about love and relationships.

Alexandria House brilliantly navigates the tension and chemistry between Angela and Ryan, crafting a story that is not only steamy and sexy but also rich with emotional depth. The novel excels in portraying the gradual dismantling of the walls the characters have built around their hearts, offering a heartfelt exploration of their fears and desires.

The romance between Angela and Ryan is beautifully developed, with House using their interactions to delve into themes of healing, self-discovery, and the courage to open up to love again. The backdrop of the natural hair community adds a unique and authentic layer to Angela’s character, highlighting her influence and the importance of self-love and acceptance.