Jump to ratings and reviews

Chocolate Friday

THE NECESSARY HUNGER! A foreign phrase to sedate English professor, Olivia Anderson, unless one where referring to food and such. However, Olivia learns the erotic meaning when she's enticed to take a walk on the wild side and attends an all male revue with a distinct urban edge. There, hidden desires are brought forth especially by one dancer known only as Flava. Returning from her adventure only slightly singed, Professor Anderson gets the shock of her life the first day of the semester when none other than Flava is sitting front and center in her classroom. From that point on, Olivia's world becomes a roller coaster ride of self-discovery where she will either face her deepest fears and possibly discover the love of her life…or endure great anguish.

Paperback

Published September 1, 2005

Loading...
Loading...

About the author

Edwina Martin-Arnold

19 books38 followers
Edwina Martin-Arnold is the author of several romance books. She is a hopeless romantic, and a true believer in happily ever after. However, Edwina knows that the path to real love is rarely straight forward. To the contrary, it's often paved with many turns and a peril or two, in real life and in the stories she creates. When Edwina isn't daydreaming about love, she's using her law degree to fight for Civil Rights or is coaching basketball.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
101 (52%)
4 stars
63 (32%)
3 stars
23 (11%)
2 stars
7 (3%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Profile Image for Tina.
976 reviews161 followers
October 24, 2022
5 ⭐😍😁🌶

I really enjoyed this story; I am looking forward to reading more from this author.

Trope: professor student, pinning, confident plus size heroin

Enjoyment: 5 ⭐

Character development: 5⭐

Romance: 4⭐

Heat\steam: 4⭐

Intrigue: 5 ⭐

Story\plot: 4⭐

World Building: 3⭐

Enjoy!!!

Profile Image for Tamara Evans.
1,063 reviews48 followers
February 17, 2021
“Chocolate Friday” begins with the main character, Olivia Anderson, having her sexuality questioned by her mother while having breakfast at a restaurant. Olivia responds to the blunt question from her mother by saying that she’s been unable to focus on a relationship due to her career as a English professor and author. In reality, Olivia hasn’t had been in an intimate relationship in fourteen years due to a trauma she experienced when she was sixteen years old. In addition, Olivia is suffering from major writer’s block.

Olivia’s friend and co-worker Cass is also worried about Olivia and her issues with intimacy. In an effort to help her friend, Cass takes Olivia to Chocolate Fridays, an black all male dance troupe. Olivia reluctantly agrees to accompany Cass and her girlfriend Genie to the show and is amused by reactions of women at the dancers as well as entranced by one particular dancer named Flava.

After the show ends, Flava is drawn to Olivia and once they meet, sparks ignite. Olivia feels uncomfortable and ashamed of her behavior with Flava and vows to treat it as a one night stand.

As the new college semester begins, Olivia takes over teaching a class on erotic literature and is surprised when she sees Flava sitting in the front row of the class. Olivia is mortified and angry because she believes Flava is there to blackmail her yet over time, she discovers that Flava is not the thug she thinks he is.

As Olivia wrestles with her feelings for Flava, she is dividing her attention between him and Colleen French, her former and mentee. Although Olivia has supported Colleen during her time at the college, she’s saddened that Colleen hasn’t made friends since graduating from college.

With help from Cass, Olivia discovers that Flava aka Andre Flaven is a studious, well traveled, intelligent man. Given Olivia’s past intimate relationship, she has built up several walls as well as having low self esteem. As she spends more time with Andre and gets to know him better, she finally begins to see herself as Andre sees her which is a sexy, beautiful woman.

This was a fast, racy read that had me rooting for Olivia and Andre. I liked the development of the relationship between Olivia and Andre as well as the realistic dialogue used in the book.
Profile Image for Crystal Luckey.
771 reviews31 followers
February 24, 2021
Slow Burn!!!

Olivia Anderson was a writer and a Professor, but she didn't do relationships or love. Due to a tragic incident in her past, she strayed away from relationships. Going out one night, she meets, Flava an exotic dancer that had her heart beating in over 14 years. Dancing with him and feeling things she didnt want to feel, she ran, but what she wasn't expecting was to see him again and as her student. Going back and forth about her feelings towards Andre (Flava), she spent a night with him and couldn't get him out her mind. After dating and going through a deadly situation with Andre, she knew how she finally felt about him.
This was a great read, but I swear Olivia got on my nerves because she just couldn't get it together. When she finally did. I was like about time. I loved how the author threw a little unexpected drama in this that I didn't see coming. I will definitely being read more from this author!!
Profile Image for Ahtiya (BookinItWithAhtiya).
429 reviews108 followers
Read
September 25, 2022
This spicy Black romance follows a successful writer with writer’s block and a former male stripper turned college student. We have Olivia, who is funny and introspective and trying to find her way through life as a professor and accomplished writer, and Andre, who is a kind and forthright intellectual former stripper on his way to getting his degree. CHOCOLATE FRIDAY features non-traditional student representation, as Andre started college in his late twenties after traveling world and the ever beloved professor-student trope but without the problematic elements! I really loved the beautiful friendship between Olivia and her bestie Cass. This is the first in a series and is available now!
Profile Image for Sonya Williams.
1,013 reviews4 followers
October 8, 2022
Hmmmm

I liked the book and the plot, but it was too much self dialog in the beginning. I admit I skipped to the end to see it it was satisfying then went back to read it.
Profile Image for Mika TheReadingRoom444.
292 reviews19 followers
October 15, 2022
That chocolate flavored love

This was a great read! Such a slow burn with loving characters that showed us their vulnerabilities and ability to fully love In their own vulnerability! I loved how the characters showcased being humans that needed A love that would heal them. There was even some suspense/thriller moments that brought the characters even closer. What a great way to spend a Saturday
239 reviews15 followers
May 19, 2021
Review: " He was a dangerous sin, wrapped in angelic eyes; it made my heart pound with distrust and my mind cloud with bewilderment." Greetings dear readers! the book I read recently is certainly a unique interpretation of something sensual that someone barely talks about. Olivia Anderson, an english professor the book is about her wild side, how she discovered it and what all happened during that. Olivia discovers the erotic art, a real sensual side while she was deeply merged in her thoughts. While she was in her thoughts and traveling the wild side she discovers what she feels for Flava, who was a dancer. As she explores her desires for Flava a real funny tragic situation happens with her. The next day when she is back to her work she founds Flava in a classroom, sitting right in front of her! Now if you are reading this line, you can probably imagine Olivia's expression at this moment. Well, after this tragic incident Olivia gets to discover a lot about herself. A whole new series of self discovery including a whole new phase of life which is rarely talked about. After she discovers herself she is more into love and it's various sides, a real enchanting tale. Get in and take a walk on the wild side.

📚I'm literally amazed after reading this, so excellently narrated. I really want to appreciate the author's interpretation, their are not so many incidents in the story but the way the author has interpreted Olivia's thoughts is just amazing. I was so much into the book that I finished it in few hours, I was amazed and entertained throughout the read.

📚I would recommend you to read this book, to all the young readers you must pick this unique book, you'll definitely discover so much more. A great pick for the new readers as well, you'll definitely pick the another one too. A book you must share with your friends so, what are waiting for?? Go ahead and get your copies now.
Profile Image for Melanin Readss.
197 reviews17 followers
February 8, 2021
Such a great book!!!

I really enjoy the story of Olivia Anderson. At first I didn’t know what was going on with her in the beginning but as the story progress we get a deeper understand of how she has become the woman she is today. Her focus was set on trying to bulldoze through her past trauma and live the life she wanted. I’d admire her for getting through her fears even though she stumbled a few times. Olivia gets invite to an “event” called Chocolate Friday. There she meets Andre aka Flava. And from there the two chemistry skyrockets. Olivia get so engross in him that she loses control, but soon realizes she’s out of her mind. When the two meet again, she’s stunned to learn Andre is a student in her class. This doesn’t stop Andre from pursuing her of course. He respectfully gave her her space, but told her once the semester was up, “I’m coming for you.” Chileeee I was here for it all! And even in giving her the “space” she wanted, their chemistry always pulled them back to each other some way. She started being more open and transparent and pushing through her past issues and I was glad to see a character not be so hell bent on wearing her pain like a safety blanket. I loved her bestfriend Cass and agreed with her about Colleen, Olivia’s past student who had an weird and unhealthy obsession with her. Girl was crazy 😂. Overall, this is my first read by Edwina and I thought it was a very well developed story. I definitely will be reading the next story.
Profile Image for Nacia Jackson.
236 reviews33 followers
January 8, 2025
Okay, listen, if you're in the mood for a quick, steamy, slow-burn romance, Chocolate Friday is calling your name! This novella is the perfect bite-sized treat to dive into when you want a sweet escape (pun intended). It's the first in the Chocolate Romance series, and trust me—it leaves you craving more.

The story kicks off with Olivia, an English professor who’s all work, no play, and healing from some deep trauma. But then, plot twist: she ends up at a male revue and gets mesmerized by one of the dancers, Flava. And when I say mesmerized, I mean heart-eyes, can't-look-away type of mesmerized. But wait—it gets better. Flava? Yeah, he walks right into her classroom the next day. AS. A. STUDENT. 😳

What I loved most about this story was how Andre (aka Flava) helps Olivia reclaim her intimacy and rediscover the parts of herself she thought were lost forever. Their chemistry is fire (🔥), and their relationship feels so heartfelt as Olivia works through her past. Also, let's give a round of applause for Flava being in his 30s—thank goodness we dodged the creepy age-gap bullet here!

Olivia and Andre’s journey is equal parts tender and spicy, and I was rooting for them the entire way. If you’re into forbidden romances with depth, characters who heal and grow together, and a healthy dose of oh, my God, did they just do that? moments, this one’s for you.
59 reviews
March 17, 2026
Wow! Wow! Wow!...Edwina did an excellent job telling a classic but non-traditional love story. As the "seriousbookcritic" that I am I read a lot of books (fiction, non-fiction, urban, classic drama, etc). Never have I ever witnessed such a monumental climax in story telling. She made the readers wait and wait and wait for a sex scene that usually (in other books) comes too soon and is too short in most books.

She is extremely talented which is displayed in her ability to make readers eyes roam over to the page on the right before finished reading the page on the left....ALL out of overwhelming anticipation for what will happen next.

This is erotica fiction at its finest!

She reminds me of Zane, which is the truest of compliments, in her ability to capture a "love making session" with such realism....allowing me (through her words) to fully envision that which I am reading....WOW!!!

AMAZING!!! I read the book in ONE day!!!...less than 24 hours. I love a book that makes me keep turning pages. I waited the entire book for a climax and she DID NOT disappoint.

Hell, now I need a "chocolate friday" and a "flava" in my life!!

Kudus to E.M.A....I look forward to reading more of her books!!!
Profile Image for Serena Buffaloe.
686 reviews12 followers
June 5, 2023
A little mystery , A little adventure , what's not to like ?

This story of Olivia and Andre was a very nice read .
Olivia is a professer at the college , and she is has a very focused career. Very . So very, that she does little else . She does write , and gets her classes together. She walks. She spends time with her mother and co worker \friend.
On thus particular night, her friend Cass invites her out to a club. Little does Olivia know that her life is about to change.
Andre is studying to have a career in forestry , and spies Olivia from afar on campus one day . On a life changing night, he encounters Olivia at the club. Must be fate !!
As Olivia and Andre combat their attraction, and navigate through a student \teacher type of situation, A lovely story unfolds.
I did enjoy this story . there were a few typos and dropped letters, but that in no way detracted from the tone of the story . This story has a little adventure , and mystery and I enjoyed it immensely !!
Profile Image for Audra.
Author 3 books34 followers
February 17, 2021
I read this delicious, page-turning novella in one sitting. An introverted English professor is persuaded by her two good friends to go to an all-male review. The last stripper to perform has come out of retirement for an encore performance and, well, let's just say that's where things get interesting. And steamy. And a little crazy because there is a student who has some concerning tendencies toward this professor, too.

What am I talking about?? Oh, my bibliophile friends, just read the book! ;-)
Profile Image for Darlene D. Bullock.
139 reviews
December 23, 2022
Simply Delightful!
I loved the realness of Olivia and Andre. The growth of both characters made me smile. The recurring theme for me was no matter what traumas who face in this life, we can get help and support from our loved ones and professionally!

The twist in the story with Colleen had me talking to this book! I knew from her introduction into the story that something was quite off with her.

There is something about black love that makes my heart smile! I look forward to some more chocolate!
Profile Image for Lisa.
2,183 reviews13 followers
December 30, 2022
A good read full of surprises!

Olivia needed some excitement in her life. Her mother thought maybe she was gay but she's pulled into teaching a class for one of her colleagues and then she meets him, Andre Flaven, who she's seen before stripping in a club! This story delves into that taboo relationship of teacher student but in the end its all love! The storyline of Colleen really was not needed but she was certifiably crazy! Can't wait to read about Andrea!
Profile Image for Ondria  Bacon.
566 reviews4 followers
June 12, 2023
An unexpected story

The entire story was very unexpected. I almost quit reading it. I thought Olivia was too moody for me. Honestly I am glad I finished the book. Though it was not what I thought it would be it was a good book. Andre really deserves an award for sticking with her. Her brother is alright with me. Her mom is a piece of work thus her daughter follows suit. Good one!

Happy Reading‼️
Profile Image for Jennifer.
441 reviews2 followers
July 12, 2021
Titillating.

Olivia Anderson is a sexually repressed college professor whose past trauma makes it impossible for her to even consider intimacy. That all changes when her best friend Cassandra brings her to an all make review and she is spellbound by Flava. What follows is his pursuit of her and her finding that hidden sexual side.
Profile Image for Nikkie.
242 reviews
February 3, 2023
Wonderful, intriguing and insightful

Oh, I haven't read a storyline like this in a while very refreshing. So glad the professor found herself and allowed herself to be not only loved but fulfilled as Dre courted her and studied her making her blossom like one of the many flowers he has studied. A great love story with many twists and turns.
2 reviews5 followers
August 29, 2020
Damn girl!

This book was delicious. I loved the tempo and how the couple connected on such a beautiful level. This story spoke to me t a complete love, secure, passionate, honest. Love me some Andre! Keep it up Edwina, you are on fire!🔥🔥🔥🔥🌪🌪🔥🔥
Profile Image for Debra McEathron.
1,980 reviews3 followers
August 10, 2021
A lot of great chocolate

Olivia is an English professor at a college. Her best friend is Cassandra who is teasing her about overcoming some of her insecurties. Andre is just the chocolate flavor she needs.
Profile Image for MrsRony.
326 reviews26 followers
November 11, 2022
great story heroine is a straight laced professor, hero stripper student. slow burn with a little mystery
good steam. The narration made it difficult to enjoy to its fullest but im sure its awesome eyeball read.
207 reviews
July 22, 2023
Chocolate friday

This book was not what i thought it to be. I actually thought it would kids erotic and streaming than it is... Don't think I'm going to finish the series, the author is to long winded
Profile Image for Lanier.
50 reviews1 follower
September 9, 2022
Good plot

It was a little confusing to keep up with the change of character pov. The dialog was a little elementary to me. Good plot.
Profile Image for Chiffon.
65 reviews
January 23, 2023
Spicy read. Loved the interaction between the 2 MCs.

Enjoyed the emotional and therapeutic sides to this as well.
Profile Image for YOLANDA V BALL.
477 reviews13 followers
January 30, 2023
Bored

I really tried reading this twice and I just couldn’t get into it. It wasn’t my cup of tea. I don’t think I’ll even attempt to read the others
Profile Image for Carolynnette Taylor.
27 reviews1 follower
July 29, 2023
Couldn't put it down!

This is my first time reading this author's work, but I thoroughly enjoyed the first installment of this series! I could relate
Profile Image for Carmen Isabish.
252 reviews3 followers
August 28, 2023
Funny and heartfelt


I love reading this steamy yet funny! The characters were relatable. I even like the knowledge of plants in the story.
256 reviews
October 2, 2023
Chocolate Friday

The way you write a story is intriguing. I think. I really couldn't stop reading until the end. I am on to book 2 in the series.
Profile Image for Tigger.
1,502 reviews7 followers
April 11, 2024
Mixed feelings about this book

First time reading a book by this author

Will read the second book in this series
2 reviews
May 13, 2024
I really enjoyed the story of Olivia and andrea. For me, it started kind of slow, but it picked up, and I wasn't able to put it down. I can't wait to read more from this author.
Profile Image for Darlene.
171 reviews2 followers
February 3, 2021
Sweet Romance

That story was hot! I loved it. I don't know where to begin. Edwina, you are a gifted romance author. I enjoyed the storyline, I laughed and smiled. I was hooked and wouldn't stop reading once I began. Flava omg what a perfect combination of attractive features as well as a well-educated individual. Olivia needed someone like him in her life. It was not only erotic but it was a real storyline. It is most definitely a series I am going to finish.    

Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews