4⭐️ and 1.5🌶️

I’ve realized I tend to enjoy a story where one of the MCs is a musician. Maybe because I am one? Myah delivered the visuals with this story so beautifully and her storytelling definitely kept my attention and at times I felt like I was in the room witnessing these moments and conversations.

Ella is a singer and songwriter who is currently in the middle of a divorce with her cheating producer husband of ten years, Elliott Majors. This man swept her off her feet at 20 and helped make her into the superstar she is today, right? Ella’s character development was a joy to witness. I appreciated the flashbacks to her early years with Elliott so we could have an idea of her mindset and relationship back then. She made some questionable decisions but who doesn’t at 20? But Elliott being older should’ve known better. I loved the conversations on race, colorism, natural hair, and just being an unapologetic Black woman.

Her relationships were strong and I love how she didn’t back down from her mom. Even when her relationships were tested, the self reflection helped her make decisions that benefited both parties whether it’s her stylist, her new boo, or her legal team.

Miles Westbrook. That is a patient man! My only wish is that we could’ve witnessed his point of view. But Myah does such an amazing job at giving us his feelings, growth, and thoughts about Ella and his feelings for her through the words he speaks. And what an amazing job with the disability representation.

At times I was drowning in celebrities and some I had to look up. And unfortunately that took away from the story for me. I wanted more of the Ella and Miles; not a scene recalling your love for a particular building because you went to your first taping of SNL there.
I know she’s a famous singer, but I am also trying to figure out if I like when authors use real world celebrities in novels or create their own world of famous people. I think I like the latter. It’s an escape.

I really enjoyed this story and I can see setup for another book and another couple on the horizon? Please? Lol 😂 Either way I’d love more of Miles and Ella, even through updates. This one is definitely going on my bookshelf! 💜
✨Divorce
✨Baseball & Singer Romance
✨Disability Rep

💜What I Loved: The voice notes • The Chair • Rodney and Crew • I Want to Dance With Somebody • Ella coming into her true self

Thank you Berkley Publishing Group for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

I’m giving this a 3.75/5 ⭐️ I really enjoyed this story, and Ella’s connection to Sade Adu. First, I love our FMC’s name, Elladie. That is beautiful. I hated that she had to go through such a public fiasco with her divorce and how Ariel touches on how women get treated in real life and the media when it comes to infidelity. I liked how Miles made her feel, like having a crush again for the first time but she really didn’t know how to navigate her feelings after being married to the first man she loved. I LOVED how the lawyer touched on grooming and different kinds of abuse briefly. Great Easter egg. I loved the convos with her friends, and how real that she could be with them and Miles. This was a cute, fun romance with some well written fade to black spicy scenes. If you’re looking for spice this is not for you but it’s a sweet story nonetheless.

What could’ve made it 5 stars for me would be letting Ella tell off her mother a little more because she was insufferable. Telling this from a dual POV. I just wanted to know what was going through Miles’ mind through how everything played out. And lastly, this doesn’t really affect my rating, I’m just nosey lol. I want more from Rodney and Angelo.

I enjoyed this story of finding love after heartbreak. Ella a famous singer is navigating a very messy public divorce from her manager, producer husband. Miles is an MLB player who’s dealt with a public heartbreak of his own. It’s hard to put down once you start.

Ella and Miles were cute from their very first meeting. The chemistry was onsite. These two made me giddy. I loved the banter between them. I enjoyed the use of emails, text, voice notes as communication throughout the novel. I was rooting for them to push through all the drama that came their way.

I liked that this book took place on the music, sports, celebrity scene. The Black art, music, artists and pop culture mentioned was fun. Missed opportunity to not include a playlist for us to listen along to I’m just saying.

As much as I enjoyed the story of Ella navigating her messy separation, dealing with her trauma to find herself and open to a new love with Miles. Their romance was sweet, tender, empowering for them both. Miles with his stutter was so endearing in how he wanted to be there to support Ella through it all from the moment they met. ‘What if I want to belong to you? -Miles to Ella’ was just swoon! That being said they didn’t spend that much time together. I would have loved more on page romance between the two.

Very important light brought to abuse, sexism, double standards in the music industry and the exploration of childhood neglect, trauma.

I think the characters could have been developed better and side plots fleshed out a bit more. The story is told through Ella’s POV with flashbacks on her childhood and life with her ex. There were just little pieces and parts thrown in about their families and friends that needed more like their parental relationships especially Ella’s relationship with her mom. But overall, a solid read I couldn’t put down. I enjoyed Ella and Miles.

Thank you to Berkley Romance and NetGalley for the eARC!

I want to thank NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for giving me the opportunity to read this eARC.

This was my first read by Myah Ariel and I absolutely loved it! No Ordinary Love is about finding love again after heartbreak and lies lived for so long. Ella (FMC) and Miles (MMC) each have their own battles they are going through, but when they are together, anything is possible.

Ella is a huge R&B/Pop singer who's going through a divorce from another big artist (Elliot). Miles is a starting pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers baseball team, and he's still recovering from a massive blowup the prior year. The chemistry these two have from the moment they make eye contact is palpable and it continues to grow as they are forced into the spotlight. I absolutely found Miles' character endearing because he has a stutter when he's nervous and Ella tends to bring out his stutter.

If you love R&B music (or music in general) and baseball then Myah Ariel's No Ordinary Love is for you! Move over Taylor and Travis - Ella and Miles have arrived.

I loved the book's music scene and plot, especially because of all the Black musicians and songs named. thanks to berkeley for the arc

This is my first read by this author, and I was not disappointed. Ella and Miles, the way they met with the wardrobe malfunction, had to be the cutest thing ever. Him literally giving her the shirt off his back. But then Elliott showing up after his manager told Ella that he wasn’t coming? And what he did in stage? I wouldn’t have been mad if Miles knocked him out. Elliott deserved everything he got, especially when he tried to get at Miles and file that police report, trying to make Miles out to be this hothead after what happened between him and Morales.
Miss Janet was a spitfire. I loved how to the point she was and about her business, making sure Ella came out on til in the divorce, but even without her, Elliott was going to lose anyway. Ella was surrounded by a group of people who love her and who she loved. I mean they went to bat for her, but she did the same with Sheryl and her ill husband. Friends aren’t made like that anymore.
Ella’s mom and Miles’ mom are polar opposites. Ella’s mom got on my nerves with the audaciousness of the emails and that lunch meeting, to that despicable phone call, projecting her own situation onto her daughter. The nerve. And Miles’ mom was definitely acting like a real mom. The part where he said he couldn’t be mad at Ella because his mom said so, I fell out.
I’m not really into sports/music romances, but this one was really cute and warm. I also liked how the spicy scenes weren’t so graphic and detailed, they were just enough to get the point across. This won’t be my last read by Myah.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book! The plot was engaging and full of twists that kept me hooked until the very end. The characters were well-developed and relatable, and I found myself really connecting with their journeys. The pacing was just right, balancing action with moments of reflection. However, there were a few areas where I felt certain storylines could have been explored a bit more deeply. Despite that, the book offered a memorable experience, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a thought-provoking read!

And she does it again!
First off, the finish copy better come with an attached playlist. Because all these references? They need a solid home
Secondly, I love that divorce stories are becoming a thing. Ariel does a great job navigating the divorced feelings and world, while also having self growth being a major theme. And secret dating a Dodger?! This dodger fan was beyond happy with this (also basically just imagined him as Mookie. But that’s fair right?)

A pop superstar navigating a messy divorce falls for MLB’s most eligible player. This is Ariel sophomore novel, and I am conflicted on how to review it. There's a strong cast of supporting characters, the plot is solid, and our FMC is on an upward trajectory as she navigates the difficulties of frenzied tabloid reports and a manipulative soon-to-be-ex husband.
My biggest beef is that when you spend so much time and energy on Ella's character and plot, something else has to give. In this case it was the romantic relationship that was sacrificed. I needed more on-page time between Ella and Miles in order to believe that they were falling for each other and willing to risk everything to be together. I'd have enjoyed this more if it weren't billed as a romance and instead simply focused on Ella with the romance being a secondary plot.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this and thought it was solid. Give this to readers who enjoy the glamour of Hollywood and an FMC on a healing/self-discovery trajectory.

I'm a bit conflicted on Myah Ariel's books. On one hand, I like her writing and I've enjoyed her books overall. On the either, with books I felt like I didn't really get enough time with the romance. The two characters aren't together as much as I'd like, and they fall head over heels for each other ros quickly. I buy them as a couple - I think there's great chemistry here - but do I buy that they've had enough time to really be completely in love? I'm not sure. I do think I enjoyed this more than her first book, but I'm not sure if this was a slam dunk for me.

This was my first time reading a novel by Myah Ariel and I know that she will now become an instant read.
The story unfolded around a singer at a new turning point in her life and an athlete trying to hold his own and move past his own drama.
I loved the journey of Ella and Miles falling in love. The connection was palpable and I found myself hoping that they wouldn't let the obstacles stand in the way of their love story. I rooted for them in a big way.
I enjoyed watching the story unfold around their celebrity status and the challenges they faced falling in love in the public eye.
My only criticism was that, toward the end, it felt a bit rushed to wrap everything up. I would have preferred more of a "show" rather than "tell" wrap-up of the story.
Even with that, the story was still very well paced and the writing style was enjoyable. I'll definitely be going back to read her other novel and I look forward to the next one!

From the moment Ella Simone and Miles Westbrook meet, I was rooting for them—not just as individuals but as a couple. Their chemistry is undeniable, and watching them navigate their connection while dealing with the realities of their lives made this such a satisfying read.

Ella, a world-renowned pop star, is going through a messy divorce, trying to protect her career and her peace while her ex moves without consequence. Then there’s Miles, an MLB superstar with a playboy reputation that doesn’t truly reflect who he is. What I loved most about him is that he’s been a fan of Ella long before they ever met. He sees her beyond the fame, and his admiration isn’t just surface-level—it’s real, and it shows in the way he treats her. The cherry on top is that this book felt like a mini love letter to 80s and 90s R&B and Pop by Black artists..

fuck me this was so good!! already preordered the physical copy as well as the author’s previous title. I loved this so much, everyone must read this.

Thank you to @berkleypub @berkleyromance for the free eARC! I’m super grateful 🫶🏾

this one I truly loved! rather than write a review, I thought I’d share some thoughts that were running through my mind whilst reading…

a woman chasing freedom
feeling unseen
women and men sacrifices are not the same.
women have to fight harder for their image.
public scrutiny isn’t shared equally
involve a male’s ego and no one’s safe. Mostly.
“you’re fine” as long as no one pokes below the surface
“stay strong”
we’re not expected to fight
abuse looks many ways
‘just jump’
afraid to let go
‘you’re strong, I wish you didn’t have to be as strong as you are’
love looks like endurance
fight back
feels seen
‘thank you for seeing me’
‘what if I want to belong to you?’

I hope this convinces you rather than confuse you.
pub date: April 1, 2025

I thoroughly enjoyed No Ordinary Love by Myah Ariel—a romance about reclaiming oneself and finding love again after a marriage built on lies and betrayal. This celebrity romance had a great pace, evoked so much emotion, and was easy to follow.

Ella, the FMC, is an R&B pop star determined to rewrite her own narrative and avoid scandal after initiating a divorce⚠️ from her equally famous husband. I loved watching her character growth unfold throughout the story, and by the end, I was truly rooting for her. While the book isn’t written in dual POV, I didn’t mind because we still get strong character depth for the MMC, Miles—a major league baseball player—through his dialogues with Ella.

Miles and Ella’s connection felt organic from the start, and I loved how they bonded over the shared heartache of private betrayal and public scrutiny, all while trying to hold onto the most honest parts of themselves. And can we talk about Ella’s glam team? Because they were everything. The emotional support, the energy, the group texts—I ate it all up.

If I had one critique, it would be the real-life celebrity name drops. At one point, Ella sings with Ariana Grande and runs into Timbaland at the studio. I totally get that it was meant to add realism to the New York celebrity scene, but I personally prefer my fiction world to stay fictional unless it’s historical fiction. That said, it didn’t take away from how much I enjoyed this book because it was really good. Already looking forward to reading When I Think of You, which I was gifted over the holidays!

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️🌶️. If you enjoy tropes and themes like celebrity romance, second chance at love, strong found family, and emotional healing then be sure to add to your TBR and snag this when it hits the shelves 4/1/2025!

Thank you @netgalley and the publisher for providing me this ARC & allowing me to provide my honest review.

To the world, popstar Ella Simone has a life that everyone wants - a successful music career and a marriage to a music mogul. Her husband's latest affair pushes her to file for divorce and she must fight to keep her career from being collateral damage in the divorce. While her life begins to unravel, Ella meets MLB's star pitcher, Miles Westbrook, and the two have undeniable chemistry. Another man is the last complication that she needs in her life, but she can't help but want Miles.

Celebrity romance? Automatic yes. Celebrity romance with a Dodgers starting pitcher as the leading man - HELL YES!!! It's as if Myah Ariel weaved her way through my mind and pulled out a concept for a book that I never knew I wanted but now I can't get enough of. I am a lifelong Dodgers fan and of course I wonder what their players' love life is like. This book gave me what I wanted and more!

I loved Miles from the moment I met him on the page. He was endearing, insightful, perceptive and not afraid to be vulnerable . Miles was the kind of man who not only looks good, but also has the emotional intelligence that would make any woman swoon. He was just what Ella needed at this tumultuous time in her life.

The chemistry between Ella and Miles was off the charts from the moment they met. As they continued to interact and see each other, it grew into an emotional connection that surprised both of them. Witnessing them fall in love made warmed my heart.

Ella had quite the journey in this book. She not only found love, but she also found herself after being what her ex-husband wanted her to be for so long. After finding the courage to leave him, she had to figure out what she wanted. It was brave of Ella to want to pursue a career with authenticity even though she had to leave the brand she worked on for several years.

You won't regret this celebrity romance! It is a book you won't be able to put down!

Steam level: 🔥🔥¾
⚠️: divorce, mention of infidelity

Such a beautiful story! I was locked in with Ella from page one! I really enjoyed her character and her friend group was so relatable. Ella truly went through some challenges, but she learned how to stand on her own, while also experiencing a sweet new love! Loved it!!

I loved it especially the connection between Ella and Miles it was just so electric. We start the book with Ella already filing for divorce and the attorney she has 🥰 she definitely is the best at what she does. I would definitely reread this book again because the journey Ella went on to find her happiness was beautiful.

I’m squealing and beyond giddy at this novel 🤩🤩 This was a one-sitting book. Meaning, I could not put it down! I adored our main characters and was able to relate so well to Ella. It’s past 3 am now where I am. So, I’m going to come back to finish my review when the sun is up.

~~~~~
Full Review:


No Ordinary Love starts with our main character, Ella, beginning the process of divorcing her music producer mogul husband. It is fairly evident from the onset that he's trash 🚮. He snagged her up immediately at 20 and has held her hostage creatively/ and legally ever since — FYI, Ella in the present is 30 now! so the trauma is real. He is also a philanderer, so there is no question about us being on board for this separation. Thankfully, we meet our boy Miles within the first couple of chapters, and the sparks come from all sides.

I was immediately engaged in the story, the two main characters.

When they meet at an award show shortly after Ella is blindsided by her (future ex) husband, she and Miles both allow a quick peek at their vulnerable underbellies, which endears them to one another. After tabloids get a whiff of the onscreen chemistry between them, they really don't have much choice but to use the coverage to control the narrative. It was almost comical how Ella thought that anyone would buy their whole "it's not like that" when I was over here sweatingggg. Especially when Miles *respectfully* applied some pressure *cue some 90's R&B playing*
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Throughout the next couple of months, they get closer to one another, and it is so beautiful. Like kicking my feet in my bed, wholesome, funny, and hot (you have a starting pitcher and an R&B singer with character descriptions similar to Zendaya and Michael B. Jordan!). I refuse to be embarrassed about it —but be ready to be blushing guys.
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Miles was the consummate gentleman and such a safe space for Ella during this crazy time in her life. I honestly didn't see him as much of a bad boy; he was just someone who had a bad rap with the media. Miles is past his latest scandal when he meets Ella, but even when he is better off keeping his distance, he is always all in for her. I will always love a man who is down bad for his girl.

Ella has quite a few things happen to her throughout the story. You have the main plot point of her getting her divorce settled away while trying to retain her creative license and gain her autonomy. She also has to confront her coping mechanisms at multiple points in her life. She's a D1 runner in quite a few conflicts lol. However, I liked the overall growth she has and how she learned to put herself in an uncomfortable position and then advocate for herself in those moments. When I say she is relatable, I mean her story is that we may not all be famous musicians, but we are all people who have to learn to fight for ourselves and shed things that no longer support our future selves.

I thought the book's pacing was fantastic; there was not a moment when I thought, "Wrap it up." It was all, "OH NO, WHY AM I ALREADY AT 68%?!" As mentioned earlier, the growth of our main character is clear and tested. I loved all of our supporting characters, too. They were people who had their own lives and helped Ella develop.

I have so many more things to say and quotes to add, but alas, we must wait for pub day! I already have this one pre-ordered because, yes, I need it on my shelves.



This mini review and the full one that followed are my honest opinion in exchange for this advanced reading copy provided by Berkeley Publishing Group via NetGalley, THANK YOU!

No Ordinary Love hits all the right notes! Both fresh off heartbreak, popstar Ella and pitcher Miles fall into a PR stunt that sizzles into so much more. If you’re wondering what happens behind those paparazzi shots, then this one is for you!

The writing is beautiful and the story is layered in such wonderful unexpected ways I couldn’t put this one down.

Thank you so much to Berkley for the early copy-- I loved every minute with Ella, Miles, and Ella's squad :)