800: Honey and Spice was a Rom-Com Delight
In this episode, I was pulled in and delighted by a rich rom-com…
Friends, friends, friends. Welcome back to Teatime Reading where there are books in progress.
Today, we have Honey and Spice by Bolu Babalola. Simply put, this book had me drawn into the romance, tension, and main characters from the very beginning.
Kiki Banjo, was a phenomenal main character. From her rock-solid, intimidating exterior and her unapologetically outspoken personality to her kick-ass radio show, Brown Sugar, where she called out "situationships," players, and heartbreak, Kiki was a force of nature.
But it was the fake relationship that made the book interesting.
When Kiki found herself caught up in a fake relationship with the very person she publicly trashed on-air as "The Wastemen of Whitewell," the chaos that ensued was glorious. The chemistry between Kiki and Malakai Korede definitely hit me before it hit them, and their banter was combined with interesting character flaws for both of them..
Speaking of Malakai, let me just say that he is the epitome of a three-dimensional love interest. Bolu Babalola did an incredible job of fleshing out his character, allowing us to see beyond his charming facade. As Kiki's feelings start to grow, we witness Malakai's true character, along with his vulnerability. The depth and heart that Babalola infused into his character made their fake relationship all the more captivating.
All in all, I thought that Honey and Spice was a great rom-com that unabashedly leaned into British blackness and while I can’t speak on the authenticity of the story, Babalola made the story compelling and I enjoyed every second of this audiobook.
Was it predictable? Sure. Did I expect the specific journeys of the various characters ? Not even a little bit.
I do have to shout out the narrator Weruche Opia. I didn’t know of her work on the screen, but I really loved her performance in this story.
It’s definitely worth a listen, and I’d imagine that it would be a great book to read as well.
Until next time, keep your bookmarks close.
Peace, Love, Pages.
Note: As Always, Affiliate Links are here for your convenience at no cost to you. All reading was at my own expense.