SOLID

by B. Love

Two best friends, one reason not to be together, and a million reasons more why they should. When the welfare of two children shift Jayla and Kayne’s platonic friendship into romantic territory, will the friends take the leap . . . or let family keep them apart?

Genres: Friends To Lovers, Romance, African American

137 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 31, 2025

About the author

Voted AAMBC's 2018 Romance author of the year, Master storyteller B. Love is the unparalleled self-love teacher. As the powerhouse for modern-day womanhood, she pens contagious content that encourages readers to internalize admiration and intimacy. She allows her most powerful vessel to guide her stories, wholly.
Since age 12, Love has been spreading self-awareness, care, and appreciation. For over six years, Love has authored over 40 publications centered around heart-piercing, reverence-worthy romance. Her novels not only entertain but challenge the audience to explore love. With a keen eye for passion, desire and dynamism she includes heuristic methods in her beautifully curated accounts of life.
B. Love’s entire persona is spearheaded by her incredible infatuation with the power of love. Contained within each novel, is an edification created for the glorification of self. Her pen bleeds for the souls who need just an inkling of empowerment. Each story is written with the intent to enlighten, engross and enkindle the passion in whoever picks up her book.

Reviews

[EricaLenise · Rating 3 out of 5]

The title says it all — it was a solid read. 📚 But honestly? I didn’t feel much for Jayla or Kayne, and their relationship didn’t pull me in like I wanted. I did appreciate how much they cared for their students (that part was sweet), but the story itself just didn’t grab me.

Maybe it’s because I’m not a huge friends-to-lovers girl… or maybe this one was just okay. 🤷🏾‍♀️

[Isatta · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is cute

This is a cute read. B. Love states in the author note that she prefers to write fast-paced Romances that are multiple genres and this book fits that. Jayla and Kayne have been pining for each other for years and this novella (judging by page number) is the culmination of their love.
Objectively speaking, the characters are fully developed. I wouldn't say they are well-rounded nor would I call them multi-faceted as they each fit into specific character boxes. Jayla is a woman, thus she is a caregiver and reserved. She also does not make the first move. Kayne is a man, so he is a protector and a provider and he is the catalyst for the relationship change. None of this is a bad thing, these are just traditional roles and if you are in the mood for something familiar, this book will give you that. There's a subplot of children being abandoned which drives the main plot and I thought the kids were adorable. Subjectively speaking, I found the subplot to be a means to an end. It felt mechanical but everybody loves kids so it works. This book is a great palate-cleansing book. It is sweet, soft, and familiar. The writing is clean and precise with a clear-cut beginning middle and end. It read as formulaic to me and I like things less predictable, but that is based on personal preference and nothing else.

[Monique · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very cute friends to lovers read. Kayne and Jayla were essentially already in a relationship anyway but just denying themselves what they felt because of his brother. I enjoyed the storyline with the children. It’s not one that I’ve read in books before. This was a very low angst read. Not a lot of drama or mess. Just a sweet love story.

[Synthia Littleton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow

I don't know how you take a couple where the MFC dated the MMC brother and turn it into a tender love story that will stay in my mind. This was so sweet! The parents knew they were sole mates (not a typo you gotta read the book) The epitome of solid. This was a forbidden romance that was so unexpected. This was soooo good! I needed this! It is a 5 star read. This is a good read!

['The Book Queen' · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story was a good read. There was limited drama with an easy storyline.

[Goddess’ Smut Library 🩷 · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐️🌶️
Friends to lovers/Ex’s brother cute little romance. I loved that they were able to help the two children in need and they had a happy ending.

[Shandra Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sweet and picture-perfect.

This was such a cute read. I won’t say stories like this never happen, but everything came together so perfectly it felt almost too smooth, like nothing could possibly go wrong. Still, it was heartwarming to see the kids become theirs and for them to have their own little family too. It’s one of those feel-good stories that leaves you smiling, even if it’s a bit idealized.

[Toya Davis-Stokley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute read. I really thought that there would be some beef between Kenya and Kayne, but it was all love. For the most part, anyway. 🤷🏿‍♀️ Jayla and Kayna were meant to be, and it was adorable how they loved on those babies.

[Shanelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED IT

The title definitely says a lot about the characters in this book. Kayne and Jayla were absolutely solid in their friendship, which evolved into something more. Although they've always had feelings for each other, they decided to take things slow until they were sure and ready to take the next step. I loved how passionate and caring they were towards Sonny's children (their nuggets). They were truly meant to be together, and the support from family and friends was a blessing. I'm so happy they had the perfect ending filled with love, happiness, and amazing children.

[Fredericka J Fisher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Solid

Love has no bounds, when it comes to family, true friends and a love a man and woman have for each other. This couple was extraordinary, strong and so loving.

[Ray · Rating 4 out of 5]

Been in a real slump and life has been lifin, but this was a good read.
I loved Jayla And Kanye down! The maturity Kenya got over a good night’s rest was needed cause I was rooting for best friends turn into lovers. Kanye loved Jayla down!! Like the man was obsessed with her and she was with him just took a little push. All in all, good read and I liked how it read.

[T K Vaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kayne and Jayla, Our Big Beautiful Family and Love

This book was so good and definitely made me shed a few tears!!!…This book showed how strong love is!!!…
Kayne and Jayla, a power team for real!!!…I love how strong their friendship was and how protective they were of each other!!!…
Kayne check in with his brother to make sure it would be okay for her to pursue his ex, Jayla!!!…
They stepped up for 2 children that were left behind by their father, because he was angry their mother was no longer living!!!…
Miley was such a lovable child and you couldn’t help but love on her!!!…Mateo was wise beyond his years and forced to step in shoes that were far too big for him to wear!!!…He put them on and he stepped for Miss Jayla!!!…He found himself with a village that was stepping for them too, so he could be a child, not a provider!!!…
Sonny’s audacity had me thankful that he was honest and willing to let someone else care for the children he felt he had nothing left to give because of his anger twds their mother!!!…

[Readwithchan_ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Solid by B. Love is one of those stories that quietly grabs your heart and doesn’t let go. This is a friends-to-lovers romance done the right way soft, emotional, and painfully realistic.

Jayla and Kayne have been best friends forever, and you can feel that history on every page. The jokes, the comfort, the way they just know each other… it’s giving “this has been love the whole time,” even before either of them is brave enough to say it. The tension isn’t loud it’s in the looks, the pauses, the almosts.

When life forces them closer (especially with the responsibility of kids in the mix), everything shifts. What used to feel safe suddenly feels risky because admitting the truth could cost them everything they already have. And that fear? B. Love writes it so well. You feel them holding back, pulling away, choosing silence over honesty and it hurts because you know they’re only delaying the inevitable.

There’s that moment that moment where feelings almost spill out, but fear wins. And honestly? That’s what made this story hit harder for me. It wasn’t rushed or unrealistic. It felt like real people choosing comfort over vulnerability… until they couldn’t anymore.

By the time they finally admit what’s been solid all along, it feels earned. Their love isn’t just romantic it’s built on trust, friendship, and showing up. The ending is satisfying in that quiet, soul settling way, where you know this isn’t just a “happy for now” situation. It’s a we’ve already survived life together kind of love.

If you love:
• friends to lovers
• slow burn emotional tension
• soft but deep romance
• stories that feel real

This one will sit with you. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[Stacie H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nice Read

Kayne and Kayla's romance blossomed through an unexpected journey of friendship 🤝 and familial connections. Initially, Jayla's romantic involvement with Kayne's brother seemed to create an insurmountable barrier 💔. Kayne gracefully accepted his role as a supportive friend 🤗, never pushing for more. As time passed and their lives intertwined through siblings that the each had a connection to, a deeper understanding 💖 and genuine connection emerged between them. Their love story unfolded organically 🌱, free from contrived conflicts or melodramatic obstacles. The genuine affection they shared extended not just to each other, but to their extended family, creating a heartwarming narrative of love ❤️, patience 🕰️, and understanding 🤲. Their relationship was a testament to the power of genuine connection and the beauty of love that grows slowly and authentically 💕.

[Kristal Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid

This was a cute friends to lovers story. I was happy to see Jayla and Kayne get their happily ever after especially after having feelings for each other for so long. With the way they were towards each other before making things official and crossing the lines of intimacy, it made me wonder if either had other relationships or situationships during that timeframe. I loved how they were about the kids and to be honest, the kids kept me more intrigued than anything because their story was a bit heartbreaking, but it was good to see them be loved genuinely and unconditionally by Jayla and Kayne.

This story gave friends to lovers and a forbidden or taboo love with the person who connected them being Jayla’s ex and Kayne’s brother. 3.5/5 stars.

[Denise Anderson-Warren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love personified

I'm embarrassed to say that this is my first B. Love book, but it won't be the last. Excellent storytelling. You will cheer for these two wonderful human beings to be together, at any cost. Their kind souls will have you questioning what you're doing in your life to make a difference. It's obvious from the opening that what Kayne and Jayla share as best friends is undeniably love. It takes a minute for them to get on the same page, but their shared love and admiration for each other finally forces them to recognize what everybody else already sees.

I love a good story that has me feeling all kinds of things.

[Brittany · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Solid” is a beautiful, friends-to-lovers story with a bit of forbidden love. I loved everything about Kayne and Jayla’s story. They were drama-free with God at the center of their relationship. Kayne and Jayla were pretty noble, although Kayne had to rock somebody’s shit at one point. And side note: it took me a minute to realize the MMC’s name is Kayne and not Kanye 😂

Anyway, I was feeling really sad for Mateo and Miley and loved that Kayne and Jayla were able to step up and step in for them in any way they could. I also appreciated the major time jump in the final chapter. It was nice to read about how well Mateo and Miley adjusted. I just wanna know if Sonny ever tried to come back and make amends.

[Ruby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kayne and Jayla!!

This friends to lovers book was the culmination of 10 years of friendship ending in a great love story. Even though they were both calling it a friendship, deep down inside they knew they were soulmates as well as sole mates. Not only did Kayne and Jayla find love with each other, but they also found a family to love with 2 special nuggets. Kayne and Jayla showed that they had a wealth of love inside of them that came across in every aspect of their lives. Great book that I thoroughly enjoyed, and I highly recommend!!

[Tamika Evans · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a quick, easy read with absolutely no drama or chaos... perfect if you’re in the mood for something light. It’s a sweet friends-to-lovers story centered around two educators who share a common passion for the well-being of the children at their schools.
While the storyline was pleasant, it felt like it could have gone a bit deeper and given us more to hold onto. Still, if you’re looking for a no-drama, feel-good friends-to-lovers romance that you can finish in a couple sittings, this is a solid choice.

[jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

SOLID

This was such a cozy beautiful love story! I will always be a sucker for found family and I loved the way Jayla and Kayne loved on each other and the kids from the very beginning. Their hearts were so big and intentions were pure toward each other and the children. No drama in this book just pure love and souls coming together as they were meant to. Sometimes that’s needed. This story was so sweet! Made a real one shed a few tears lol.

[Ladii Zig · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

I love the love that Kayne and Jayla shared. Who would've thought that Jayla being with Kenya would bring her closer to her soul mate. What Jayla and Kayne did for both Miley and Mateo was beyond words that I can express because they blessed those babies to no end. Their heart was so full of love to share with those who are around them and whom they care about. Great read, I fell in love with both Kayne and Jayla

[Roxy Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

meant to be

The way Kayne & Jayla fought the good fight not to give into their feelings would love his stir was a waste of time….the way they lived each other as friend as a couple they were goals is the way the lived in those kids was a whole other level Sonny’s story was sad but he didn’t have to give up on his kids but I understood but he should have went to therapy instead of giving up I would love his story to see if could redeem himself

[Mayas · Rating 5 out of 5]

My soul wasn't ready

I don't know why I cried so much like Jayla, but I did. My heart is just as big as hers and Kayne.

Sonny was going to get it from me, too. He was selfish because those babies were hurting. The world needs more teachers and guidance counselors like the besties.

[Sandra Lynn Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so good. They invested so much into Miley and Mateo. The father was something else to just move to another state and leave his children but love couldn't make them closer to Kayne and Jayla. Glad their biological family realized they couldn't give them the love and attention they needed and allowed Jayla and Kayne to adopt them.

[Tedra Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A quick and beautiful read

Solid was simply beautiful. A story of love without struggle. It’s what I loved most about the book. Jayla and Kayne loved each other without having any rough patches. For a decade Kayne dedicated himself to Jayla without wavering. This is such an easy simple love story. I finished in one day

[NT · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 ⭐️
This wasn’t a bad book, but I was bored with it. It was a cute enough story, but I felt no connection to any of the characters or the story. Instead of DNFing the book, I started skipping through paragraphs about 50% into the book just to finish the story to see how it ended for Mateo and Miley.

[Vasaunti Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a true lover to friends that everyone could see but the two standing in it. Both loved each other deeply but didn’t want to ruin their friendship. Both have the same love and passion for their students. Both seeing a problem and going above and beyond!! That helped them see and move as a unit and helped them to see they are better together. I loved the story, but I wish they had more time to be with one another they way everyone around them seen it coming from afar. Super sweet and loving to read.

[Hazel Robinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved It💕💕

Short but Sweet. The MMC had been in loved with the MFC for ten years. They were the best of friends. Would they remain best friends if he took there relationship to the next level or would he lose it all. There are a few surprises but I don't want to be a spoiler😉😉. Kudos to the author👏🏾👏🏾

[Carolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Solid

This book was a Great Read. B. Love wrote another great novel. I smiled the entire time I was reading this book. The characters were so relatable and fun to read about. I loved the dynamics between the couple Jayla and Kayne. A strong black relationship between the two characters. This book was written beautifully about true love. Most definitely would recommend it.

[Gigi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is what a soul mate feels like

Two souls both teachers were meant to be together. God has a way of answering your prayers and you don't even realize it. Two souls brought together in the wildest way but non the less they were meant for each other. These two have the biggest hearts and love love. Great read!