Honey & Spice

LoveReading Says

After reading the glowing masterpiece that was Love In Colour, a short story collection and Babalola's debut, I was struck by the lush prose and deeply emotive voice, so of course I was excited to read her latest release; Honey & Spice.

This young and vibing novel is a summery, feel-good celebration of Blackness, Africanness and love. Babalola's writing exudes rich, flavoursome romance. I was so obsessed with her tasteful descriptions and the current feel of the story that I didn't mind having what felt like a plethora of archetypal romance clichés being thrown at me right until the end.

As a reader that prefers more hard-hitting, grittier novels, I was impressed by the way Babalola wielded these otherwise textbook tropes and made me believe it.

Moreover, I loved how well Babalola painted these characters. She depicts Kiki as incredibly guarded, with a beguiling, keen-eyed confidence that Malakai effortlessly disarms with his magnetic personality. But little does Kiki know that Malakai also has his own insecurities. These two characters have great banter, bouncing off each other as they share their art, their interests and as they learn how to be more open and vulnerable; they complement each other, like honey and spice.

Equally as irresistible is side romance between Aminah and Kofi, a winning love story in and of its own, with its own obstacles to overcome and swoon worthy attributes.

Honey & Spice is a fresh, steamy glow-up of age-old love stories, one that centres Black love and womanhood.

Reviewed by Lois Cudjoe
Lois is a book lover, content creator and blogger from London.
More reviews by Lois Cudjoe

Find This Book In