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Creative Differences
Mackenzie Levi Smith is New York’s most sought-after celebrity photographer, focused on her studio, Divine Expressions, and too busy for distractions. Then comes Jackson Porter, a world-famous painter with talent and attitude to spare. When they are paired for the Visionaries exhibit, their creative clash sparks undeniable chemistry. Heated debates turn into late nights and stolen kisses as passion blurs into something real. Beneath their tension lies shared grief, vulnerability, and the longing to be seen. As the exhibit nears, they discover that love, like art, is messy, and sometimes the masterpiece is born from chaos.
- GenresRomance
93 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2025
83 people are currently reading
154 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
June 12, 2025
A full novella
This is a debut and I have to say it didn’t read like one. We got two very complete characters and a complete story. There was tension and angst and love, just everything I love when it comes to a forced proximity workplace romance. I can’t wait for the next and I hope it’s Angelou and _ _ _ _.
This is a debut and I have to say it didn’t read like one. We got two very complete characters and a complete story. There was tension and angst and love, just everything I love when it comes to a forced proximity workplace romance. I can’t wait for the next and I hope it’s Angelou and _ _ _ _.
November 7, 2025
A really cute short sweet read no notesss
October 12, 2025
Super Cute
I absolutely loved Jackson & Mackenzie’s love story. Started as enemies-to-lovers, being in forced proximity. I’m happy Mackenzie didn’t allow her past to keep overpowering her future. I’m happy that Jackson saw through Natalie’s bs. Jackson didn’t shy away from his emotions and went after what he wanted. Thank you DH for a beautifully written story. Can’t to see more of them in the future.
I absolutely loved Jackson & Mackenzie’s love story. Started as enemies-to-lovers, being in forced proximity. I’m happy Mackenzie didn’t allow her past to keep overpowering her future. I’m happy that Jackson saw through Natalie’s bs. Jackson didn’t shy away from his emotions and went after what he wanted. Thank you DH for a beautifully written story. Can’t to see more of them in the future.
January 5, 2026
Mackenzie & Jackson story was good. Teaches you that love is patient and it’s a love intent for you that you don’t have to rush or question.
October 15, 2025
I liked it
This is how you write a short book. It’s engaging with no filler details. The author told the story well. I can’t wait for book 2
This is how you write a short book. It’s engaging with no filler details. The author told the story well. I can’t wait for book 2
November 11, 2025
When creative opposites are forced to work together, sparks are bound to fly, and that’s exactly what happens with Mackenzie and Jackson. I absolutely loved everything about this story. For a novella, it felt incredibly full and satisfying. The character development, the slow burn, the forced proximity, the dialogue, every element and more was done so well.
For a debut, it didn’t feel like a debut at all. The writing was confident and engaging, and I loved how the author planted little hints to set up the next story. I’ll definitely be following this series!
For a debut, it didn’t feel like a debut at all. The writing was confident and engaging, and I loved how the author planted little hints to set up the next story. I’ll definitely be following this series!
October 28, 2025
(4.5)
I loved the book, it was a great little novella. They were two forces placed together who were bound to collide, and when they did they both created beautiful chaos.
Mackenzie was set on being closed off to love, and anything that could taint her image/career. Jackson was self-aware, but needed something or someone to bring him back to life. Together they made art, they made chaos, they made love… Even when Mac got in their way, there was nothing that could hold back the love between them.
I loved the book, it was a great little novella. They were two forces placed together who were bound to collide, and when they did they both created beautiful chaos.
Mackenzie was set on being closed off to love, and anything that could taint her image/career. Jackson was self-aware, but needed something or someone to bring him back to life. Together they made art, they made chaos, they made love… Even when Mac got in their way, there was nothing that could hold back the love between them.
September 8, 2025
Interesting read
November 7, 2025
4.5 stars
DH Renfroe really showed out with this one. I’m still sitting here shooketh that a book under 100 pages had me grinning, kicking my feet, and clutching my chest like that. Like—how did she manage to give full character arcs, tension, and real grown-folk emotion in novella length? That’s talent, baby.
Mackenzie and Jackson? Whew. That’s that “two storms colliding and somehow making sunshine” type of love—-AND I WANT IT! The chemistry jumped straight off the page—messy, magnetic, and deliciously chaotic. You could feel every push and pull between them. One minute they’re creating art, next they’re creating chaos, and somehow it’s all still love. What really gagged me though is how complete it felt. I’ve read 400-page novels that didn’t touch me like this. It’s giving masterclass in efficiency and emotion. DH Renfroe didn’t waste a word—just intentional storytelling from top to bottom. If this is how she’s starting her pen game? Oh, I’m locked in.
DH Renfroe really showed out with this one. I’m still sitting here shooketh that a book under 100 pages had me grinning, kicking my feet, and clutching my chest like that. Like—how did she manage to give full character arcs, tension, and real grown-folk emotion in novella length? That’s talent, baby.
Mackenzie and Jackson? Whew. That’s that “two storms colliding and somehow making sunshine” type of love—-AND I WANT IT! The chemistry jumped straight off the page—messy, magnetic, and deliciously chaotic. You could feel every push and pull between them. One minute they’re creating art, next they’re creating chaos, and somehow it’s all still love. What really gagged me though is how complete it felt. I’ve read 400-page novels that didn’t touch me like this. It’s giving masterclass in efficiency and emotion. DH Renfroe didn’t waste a word—just intentional storytelling from top to bottom. If this is how she’s starting her pen game? Oh, I’m locked in.
November 23, 2025
Bayybbbeeeee… this little novella swept me right up into its arms. The sensuality, the tenderness, the way love was held so intentionally on these pages… Whew. It sat soft in my chest the whole time I read it.
Creative Differences gave me the same emotional heartbeat I feel every time I rewatch Really Love on Netflix and you KNOW that’s one of my favorite films. That quiet, vulnerable Black love… that artistic, intimate unraveling between two people who see each other clearly? Renfroe captured that energy effortlessly.
This story is beautiful, grounded, and emotionally rich in a way that made me pause just to feel it. A true gem for anyone who wants Black romance that’s sensual, vulnerable, and grown.
Definitely one I’ll be recommending again and again
Creative Differences gave me the same emotional heartbeat I feel every time I rewatch Really Love on Netflix and you KNOW that’s one of my favorite films. That quiet, vulnerable Black love… that artistic, intimate unraveling between two people who see each other clearly? Renfroe captured that energy effortlessly.
This story is beautiful, grounded, and emotionally rich in a way that made me pause just to feel it. A true gem for anyone who wants Black romance that’s sensual, vulnerable, and grown.
Definitely one I’ll be recommending again and again
June 3, 2025
First I am shook this is the authors debut. She did a phenomenal job writing this story. Mackenzie and Jackson’s story was real. Our photographer FMC has built a fortress around her heart and our painter MMC is closed off and brooding. The tension and angst *chefs kiss* a few moments ai wanted Mackenzie to get it together but it all ended very happy in the end! Go read the book you will have no regrets!
December 3, 2025
Love is patience
A just about perfect bite sized love story featuring 2 hard heads that seem intent on not letting love win!
What do you get when you have 2 artists that are thrust together for an exhibition? Disagreements, sure. Creative differences, of course. But underneath it all, maybe just a smidge of magic for Mackenzie and Jackson. It won’t come easy. Mackenzie is distrustful of men after her fiancée did her wrong. It’s been years but she’s thrown herself into what she can trust: her undeniable talent and building her career. Jackson is dealing with a different kind of heart ache and is convinced that forever is not for him. He’s not actively looking g for it but seems to believe that the kind of love his parents had isn’t possible now.
That’s the set up for these creatives (she with photography and he with paint) to not only work together to make something magical and impressive, but it might also allow them to see the possibility of “more”.
Beautifully written. The emotions were real and believable. The arguments were genuine and the sexy sexy times and the reverence it held was reflected on the page. Will definitely read more from this author!
A just about perfect bite sized love story featuring 2 hard heads that seem intent on not letting love win!
What do you get when you have 2 artists that are thrust together for an exhibition? Disagreements, sure. Creative differences, of course. But underneath it all, maybe just a smidge of magic for Mackenzie and Jackson. It won’t come easy. Mackenzie is distrustful of men after her fiancée did her wrong. It’s been years but she’s thrown herself into what she can trust: her undeniable talent and building her career. Jackson is dealing with a different kind of heart ache and is convinced that forever is not for him. He’s not actively looking g for it but seems to believe that the kind of love his parents had isn’t possible now.
That’s the set up for these creatives (she with photography and he with paint) to not only work together to make something magical and impressive, but it might also allow them to see the possibility of “more”.
Beautifully written. The emotions were real and believable. The arguments were genuine and the sexy sexy times and the reverence it held was reflected on the page. Will definitely read more from this author!
October 10, 2025
Gave me the feels!!!!
For this to be D.H. Renfore’s first release, she did an amazing job crafting a story that felt full and layered—even as a novella. The writing pulled me in, and the storyline kept me entertained the whole way through.
Mackenzie and Jackson were so uniquely them—two people trying to piece themselves together while figuring out if those missing parts could be found in each other. I just know Ms. Della was up there in the pearly gates working overtime on those two, lol!
Mackenzie did get on my nerves a bit with all the comparisons between her past and present, but I get it—she needed that reminder to trust her instincts.
For this to be D.H. Renfore’s first release, she did an amazing job crafting a story that felt full and layered—even as a novella. The writing pulled me in, and the storyline kept me entertained the whole way through.
Mackenzie and Jackson were so uniquely them—two people trying to piece themselves together while figuring out if those missing parts could be found in each other. I just know Ms. Della was up there in the pearly gates working overtime on those two, lol!
Mackenzie did get on my nerves a bit with all the comparisons between her past and present, but I get it—she needed that reminder to trust her instincts.
January 21, 2026
Liked it a lot
I liked a lot about this. The writing was good and I enjoyed the dialogue, the overall storyline and their supportive families. And I adored Nina. Mackenzie was a little maddening but at least she realized it. lol
What nudged this to a 3.5 for me was the fact that, for me, a lot of what led to the level of declarations and feelings that were professed in the end seemed to be skimmed over. I felt the raw heat between them but the progression to the intense feelings after that? I didn't really feel it, though I still enjoyed the read. The editing was another minor issue for me, too.
Still gonna read the next book.
I liked a lot about this. The writing was good and I enjoyed the dialogue, the overall storyline and their supportive families. And I adored Nina. Mackenzie was a little maddening but at least she realized it. lol
What nudged this to a 3.5 for me was the fact that, for me, a lot of what led to the level of declarations and feelings that were professed in the end seemed to be skimmed over. I felt the raw heat between them but the progression to the intense feelings after that? I didn't really feel it, though I still enjoyed the read. The editing was another minor issue for me, too.
Still gonna read the next book.
December 31, 2025
Another gem I picked up during BRAE this year! Kept seeing other Bookstagrammers recommend this, too.
Beautifully written—from the parental advice, the art, the love scenes OMG. I wish I could see the art and the photos theg made.
Wish they had more tension in the beginning, but their blooming love was something to witness. I like what Jackson said about his parents love—how it was steady. May we all experience a consistent, slow burning candle type of love like that 🙏🏾
Intrigued by Angelou and Nina so I will read their book next!
Beautifully written—from the parental advice, the art, the love scenes OMG. I wish I could see the art and the photos theg made.
Wish they had more tension in the beginning, but their blooming love was something to witness. I like what Jackson said about his parents love—how it was steady. May we all experience a consistent, slow burning candle type of love like that 🙏🏾
Intrigued by Angelou and Nina so I will read their book next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 20, 2026
The Artistry of Love 💕
Hmmm, it’s the arts 🎭 & NY a tristate representation …again 🤩🤷🏾♀️‼️However, “Creative Differences” required no review curves. Meanwhile, this book was a great frenemies to lovers read…with serendipitous artistic expressions materialized, harmonized & personified 🥰😉🤭‼️“Creative Differences (Porter Brothers Series - Book 1)” was a well constructed novella. The both the Smith & Porter families are generational renaissance thespians. This Porter Brothers series should be interesting & entertaining 🤭🍿👀📗‼️
Hmmm, it’s the arts 🎭 & NY a tristate representation …again 🤩🤷🏾♀️‼️However, “Creative Differences” required no review curves. Meanwhile, this book was a great frenemies to lovers read…with serendipitous artistic expressions materialized, harmonized & personified 🥰😉🤭‼️“Creative Differences (Porter Brothers Series - Book 1)” was a well constructed novella. The both the Smith & Porter families are generational renaissance thespians. This Porter Brothers series should be interesting & entertaining 🤭🍿👀📗‼️
September 4, 2025
Quick read and a complete story - Loved it!
Mackenzie & Jackson got me out here in my feelings! This 79-page read gave us so much yearning, banter, and heat, I ain't even know what to do with myself. I was mad it ended, but I already know this is just the start for the Porter brothers. Definitely hoping Angelou is next cause l'm tryna see what he's got going on. I'm crossing my fingers for more of Mac and Jack in the next books🤞🏾
Mackenzie & Jackson got me out here in my feelings! This 79-page read gave us so much yearning, banter, and heat, I ain't even know what to do with myself. I was mad it ended, but I already know this is just the start for the Porter brothers. Definitely hoping Angelou is next cause l'm tryna see what he's got going on. I'm crossing my fingers for more of Mac and Jack in the next books🤞🏾
January 2, 2026
Creative Differences is what I'm expecting when I read a novella. Though it's short, DH Renfroe gives readers well developed, diverse characters and an engaging, well-paced narrative. The writing is also captivating. I highly recommend Creative Differences and I look forward to reading more of the author's catalog.
Spice rating: 2/5
Content warnings:
Moderate: Sexual content
Minor: Infidelity, Death of parent
Spice rating: 2/5
Content warnings:
Moderate: Sexual content
Minor: Infidelity, Death of parent
January 5, 2026
Baby…the tension, the banter, the LOVE 😮💨 I really enjoyed watching Jackson and Mackenzie’s journey unfold. Two insanely talented artists in their own right coming together to create one beautiful, chaotic masterpiece. And the forced proximity!!!! YES PLEASE.
That little tying-up scene??? Ooooh I said oh y’all are really getting into it 👀🔥 You could feel everything through the pages…the chemistry, the emotion, all of it. Such a good book.
That little tying-up scene??? Ooooh I said oh y’all are really getting into it 👀🔥 You could feel everything through the pages…the chemistry, the emotion, all of it. Such a good book.
January 31, 2026
I really enjoyed this story. I found myself smiling at several parts. I really liked Nina and Mac friendship. I felt like one scene was a "he's a good man savanna" moment.I loved seeing Jackson and Mac love story unfold. I appreciated how it was centered around art and how they connected that way. This book was truly a good read. I'll definitely be reading about the brothers and more from this author and
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2025
Chaotically Beautiful
I love a good slow burn. You could feel the tension between Jackson and Mackenzie before they even made it into the same room. But once the flame was ignited it burned furiously and sexily. I look forward to what’s to come from the Porter Brothers. Nina and Angelou 👀
I love a good slow burn. You could feel the tension between Jackson and Mackenzie before they even made it into the same room. But once the flame was ignited it burned furiously and sexily. I look forward to what’s to come from the Porter Brothers. Nina and Angelou 👀
January 30, 2026
absolutely adored
Mackenzie and Jackson showed us the complexities of falling. It’s a little messy, it’s a little frustrating, and it’s a whole lot satisfying! These two are the definition of I don’t really hate you, I’m just not sure how to love you…yet! When they do figure things out, it's beautiful. Happy Reading y’all!💋
Mackenzie and Jackson showed us the complexities of falling. It’s a little messy, it’s a little frustrating, and it’s a whole lot satisfying! These two are the definition of I don’t really hate you, I’m just not sure how to love you…yet! When they do figure things out, it's beautiful. Happy Reading y’all!💋
August 29, 2025
loved it
I love when I get a full story in a novella. DH did a great job writing the miscommunication trope. And I just loved seeing the couple fall in love. Can’t wait for book 2. Hopefully I don’t have to wait long
I love when I get a full story in a novella. DH did a great job writing the miscommunication trope. And I just loved seeing the couple fall in love. Can’t wait for book 2. Hopefully I don’t have to wait long
October 14, 2025
Mackenzie’s company Divine Expressions is doing amazing. She’s the most sought out photographer the world. However she feels something is missing. A project pairs her with the world famous painted Jackson Porter. Either sparks will fly or it’ll be a major disaster.
October 13, 2025
Shortie but Goodie
Creative Differences was a beautiful romance novella. For this to be the author’s debut, it was written very well and as if this author has been writing. This novella packed a good amount of romance and plot.
Creative Differences was a beautiful romance novella. For this to be the author’s debut, it was written very well and as if this author has been writing. This novella packed a good amount of romance and plot.
November 9, 2025
Loved everything about this!
This definitely exceeded my expectations. I loved the way Jackson and Mackenzie's relationship unfolded. I literally felt all the emotions through the ups and downs. 10\10 for sure!
This definitely exceeded my expectations. I loved the way Jackson and Mackenzie's relationship unfolded. I literally felt all the emotions through the ups and downs. 10\10 for sure!
November 11, 2025
4.5! Wow the writing was beautiful! I could really feel the love and connection between the two characters. Had the perfect amount of spice. They were a couple you were really rooting for. Absolutely loved the ending. I can’t wait to read Nina’s story
November 14, 2025
Mackenzie, girl I get it but Damn! Thank goodness for Pop Porter and Nina! We love a man with the strength and intention to love us aggy girls. We know we’re unreasonable but hey.
“Let me be the one who teaches you differently.”
“Let me be the one who teaches you differently.”
December 30, 2025
I love how this was a full story even though it was a short read. It included some of my favorite tropes, enemies to lovers and character development with funny supporting characters. Can’t wait to read Nina and Angelou’s story!
January 27, 2026
“It’s like jazz,” he said, voice calm, confident. “Messy. Improvised. But when it hits…it’s soul.”
This was so so cute. The author did such a good job of fitting a big love story in under a 100 pages.
This was so so cute. The author did such a good job of fitting a big love story in under a 100 pages.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews