Book Review: A Little Kissing Between Friends by Juleesa Jones
As a passionate reader and an ever-curious explorer of diverse narratives, I was instantly drawn to A Little Kissing Between Friends by Juleesa Jones. This vibrant, contemporary romance offered the tantalizing promise of a friends-to-lovers journey, layered with charisma, humor, and real emotion. With positive buzz surrounding its characters and narrative style, I was excited to dive into this world where music and dance intertwine—and where friendship encounters the complexities of love.
At the heart of the story are Cyn Tha Starr, an up-and-coming music producer with an unapologetic attraction to flirty femmes, and Jucee, a confident and captivating dancer at the strip club Sanity, who balances work and life as a devoted mother. Their relationship has always been built on strong, platonic foundations, but as circumstances shift, they begin to explore deeper feelings that surface beneath their established camaraderie. This transition is messy yet relatable, making the emotional stakes feel palpable.
A crucial theme in this book is the interplay between friendship and romance. Cyn and Jucee’s chemistry is electric, and their dynamic radiates warmth and genuine affection. Jones does an exceptional job of painting a complex portrait of how fear and hesitance can cloud judgment when love becomes a possibility. I found myself cheering for them, grappling with their uncertainty, and wishing they could just communicate openly!
The writing style is a blend of sparkling dialogue and vibrant descriptions. Jones’ prose snaps and shimmers, effortlessly drawing readers into the pulsating energy of the music studio and the euphoric nightlife of the club. One standout moment for me was where Cyn captures the essence of Jucee in a song, reflecting the beautiful connection they share. Such lyrical insights made me reflect on the power of creating art from love and heartache, a sentiment echoed in the rave reviews about how this book resonates with readers.
Customer reviews echoed my sentiments. Readers have found themselves captivated by the characters’ chemistry and the ways their friendship evolves into something more significant. One reviewer noted, "This one had me in a chokehold!" which is a fitting description of how this story immerses you in its world. However, some also pointed out a common frustration with the lack of communication—something many friends-to-lovers narratives grapple with. It’s a double-edged sword; while it fuels the tension, it also sometimes leaves you wanting to shake the characters into clarity.
For readers seeking a refreshingly queer contemporary romance that celebrates body positivity and the normalization of sex work, A Little Kissing Between Friends offers a delightful narrative fitting for both casual readers and those deeply engaged with these themes. Jones crafts a sweet and spicy love story that transcends traditional categories, inviting readers on a journey of self-discovery and the search for love within established rapport.
In closing, I wholeheartedly recommend A Little Kissing Between Friends to anyone who enjoys heartfelt romance that feels genuine and fresh. Those who have loved D’Vaughn and Kris Plan a Wedding will find echoes of Jones’ engaging style here—but with its unique vibe, it stands beautifully on its own. This book has left me both reflective and hopeful, reminding me how love can blossom in the most unexpected ways. Happy reading!
You can find A Little Kissing Between Friends here >>