I didn't realise that this was a sequel when I started reading it, though I found it worked well as a standalone. I do wonder if it would have been a five star read if I'd read the first novel, too, as I suspect many readers loved seeing the characters change in ways I couldn't relate to. The characters in this are so rich and vivid that I felt like they were real people! Every time Kai and Kiki shared a scene, I was desperate for them to reconnect, and even though a later miscommunication was a little frustrating, it didn't stop me rooting for them. If I had one criticism, it's the length: I felt the section before Kai appeared dragged a little and could have been really cut down.

5 Stars – A Sizzling, Smart Second-Chance Romance

This story is everything I want in a rom-com: sharp, funny, emotional, and brimming with chemistry. Kiki is a relatable, complex heroine navigating the chaos of adulthood—career hiccups, family pressure, and a best friend’s over-the-top wedding—all while facing the unresolved tension of her first love. The return of Malakai brings a perfect storm of old wounds and undeniable attraction that had me hooked from start to finish. With sparkling dialogue, heartfelt moments, and a rich sense of culture and family, this book is a joyful, heartfelt reminder that sometimes love deserves a second chance. Unputdownable!

This took a little while for me to get into because the internal monologue seems to jump all over the place in terms of memories and current events. However, once I got used to this, I really loved the romance and the realism of being an older daughter and struggling to navigate in an adult world.

Sweet Heat was my most anticipated read of 2025, so I am so grateful to receive an ARC. Bolu has knocked it out of the park yet again. I devoured this book and am now at a complete loss about what to read next. I already can’t wait to read Kiki and Malakai’s story again. Bolu describes perfectly the struggle for creatives when they leave college and older daughter syndrome. All the different types of love, whether it is love you’re unsure about, first love, the love of your girls is described so beautifully throughout this book. I already know I am going to need a playlist to go with this book.

The spice in this book is off the charts. 5 scotch peppers!

Loved it. Already can’t wait to see what Bolu cooks up next.