Thank you to the author and publisher for giving me the opportunity to read an EArc for her need release. This book was so good and gave all of the R & B vibes. I love how the author incorporated the entertainment industry with sports. Though the fake dating trope isn’t my fave. It’s was done very well in this novel and for good reason. I can’t wait to see what else the author does in the black romance space.

Highly recommend!

From the very first page, No Ordinary Love pulled me in with a depth and authenticity that resonated deeply. Ella’s journey is one of self-discovery and liberation, a narrative that felt both personal and empowering. There was something profoundly freeing about her story—her struggles, triumphs, and vulnerabilities felt so real, making it easy to connect with her on an emotional level. It’s rare to find a character whose growth speaks directly to the heart, but Ella’s evolution did just that.

Miles’ character brought a refreshing and heartfelt representation of disability that’s often missing in romance novels. His experiences were portrayed with nuance and care, offering a perspective that was both enlightening and deeply moving. Witnessing his resilience and the layers of his personality unfold was inspiring, adding a rich dimension to the story that felt genuine and heartfelt.

The love story between Ella and Miles was nothing short of organic and emotionally charged. Their connection blossomed naturally, with a chemistry that leaped off the pages. I was delighted to discover one of my new favorite tropes within their romance—the dynamic between a musician and an athlete. Their contrasting yet complementary lives created a beautiful harmony that added depth to their relationship.

Reading No Ordinary Love felt like listening to an early 90’s R&B love song—smooth, soulful, and brimming with raw emotion. Myah Ariel crafted a story that not only entertained but also touched the soul. I highly recommend this novel to anyone looking for a romance that’s heartfelt, beautifully written, and refreshingly authentic.

Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for this ARC!

My first book by Myah, and now I want to read her others. No Ordinary love is a celebrity romance. I typically don't pick this trope up because I find it lacking in depth a lot with the characters. However, Myah wrote this trope in a phenomenal way that I felt deeply. Ella is the main character and we follow her on her journey after a recent divorce. It's a sticky situation because her ex-husband is a powerful person in the music industry. I loved her bravery and watching her take back her independence.

I loved Miles for Ella. He was a safe space for her and was always encouraging her in her journey. Their romance was full of swoony and steamy moments. Myah included that his character has a stutter, and I have truly never seen that in a book. I have a niece who went to speech therapy for the same thing and how she presented it in the book was a breath of fresh air.

Overall, I really enjoyed this one!!

This book made my heart so happy! I absolutely loved that both Miles and Ella were given second chances at love after the deep hurt and betrayal they experienced in their previous marriages. Their connection felt instant and undeniable. I felt the spark between them from the very first moment they met.

Miles was such an emotionally intelligent, patient, and supportive man, and we love that for Ella! Watching their relationship unfold was so healing and authentic. Myah Ariel did such a beautiful job showing two people learning to trust again, not just each other, but also themselves. I especially appreciated how both characters were written with such care and depth.

Just like with her previous novel, this would’ve been an easy 5 star read for me if it had been written in dual POV. I would’ve loved to be inside Miles’s mind just as much as Ella’s. Still, this was such a tender, emotionally rich second-chance romance that left me feeling full of hope and love.

In all honesty, I just don’t think this book was for me. I didn’t love the writing style, the pacing fell off to me, and I just wasn’t hooked. I liked the idea of the story, but the execution just fell flat for me. I liked the pop culture references, and I liked the emphasis on the music as a singer myself, but in terms of the plot and pacing and writing I just didn’t like this one. I’m not really sure if I would recommend it because I’ve seen other people say it similar stuff, but I’m still open to reading more books from this author.

3.5 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for this ARC! I'll be giving my honest review.
This was a very fun read with witty banter and a diverse, hilarious cast of side characters, and a storyline that was engaging. You can clearly tell the research that was put into crafting this book. I really enjoyed all of the pop culture and music references as well.
While I really did like the two main characters, Miles and Ella, I felt like they just weren't together enough before they were suddenly madly in love. They were only in the same room a couple of times before they were madly in love. The story seemed to focus a lot more on her divorce and a lot less on her relationship with Miles. The moments they did have together though I LOVED. They are clearly meant for one another, but I just wish it hadn't been so rushed. To the point where it almost felt like a subplot.
Overall though, an enjoyable read and I would be curious to read more by Myah Ariel in the future.

Ella is in the middle of a divorce, she is trying to navigate getting out of an outrageously lopsided prenup and separating herself from her label with equally unfair terms. The problem, Ella and her husband are seen a a power couple in the music industry and navigating a divorce and keeping her reputation intact is proving harder than it seems. Enter Miles. He’s a professional baseball pitcher that went through a similarly public divorce.. When they are scheduled to present an award together and there is a wardrobe malfunction, the gossip coupled with their steamy on stage chemistry starts rumors that Ella can’t afford.

I loved so much about this book. It is written in Ella’s POV and you get to go through all her emotions of dealing with the los of her marriage and the realization that she was so completely deceived by someone she loved and trusted. Miles is a wonderful support to Ella at a very trying time in her personal life and career. I loved how the author also drops in a lot of legendary R&B singers and songs that pull you into the story. If you like a good reclaiming your life story with just the right ending, this book is worth the read.

Ella, girl how I love you, let me count the ways! Her character is instantly relatable, and her close-knit "glam squad" friend group added so much heart and humor to the story.

Ella goes through some real challenges, navigating a new normal while discovering a sweet, unexpected love. Watching her embrace change, step out of her own head, and grow into her truest self was inspiring. The self-discovery woven into the romance gave the story so much depth.

Yes, it’s a slow burn—but the chemistry and emotional pacing make it impossible to put down. I absolutely loved it!

While Myah’s debut novel was stellar, this novel feels like she’s really coming into her own as an author. There is so much to be learned through these two characters about love, healing, and, of course, there’s the swoon-worthy romance! Can’t wait to see more from this author.

Thank you Berkley Pub for the ARC via
NetGalley! First things first this is thee most beautiful cover! I'm obsessedddd and the play off of Sade with the title. 10/10! This story was super cute and an interesting story about a singer going through a divorce and meeting a star baseball player hottie. The beginning was super strong to me and loved the whole Grammys portion of the story. So fun and felt like you were really getting an inside look of the popular awards show. I liked the main characters a lot, I just think toward the midway point the plot wasn't really moving forward as l'd hoped. Then the end wrapped up too fast. I think we could've got a little deeper on them as people and their romantic connection throughout so the end wouldn't feel so rushed. But overall it was a cute book and would be interested in reading more for Myah Ariel in the future!

hope my face says it all because I LOVED this book! No Ordinary Love by Myah Ariel is easily one of the best romance novels I’ve read in a while.

The love story between Ella—a newly separated pop star—and Miles, a “bad boy” MLB player, starts as a PR partnership and slowly transforms into something neither of them expected, but both desperately needed.

Myah Ariel’s writing is vivid, emotionally rich, and completely immersive. The character development was so well done, and the vulnerability Ella and Miles showed as they opened up to each other made their connection feel so real and heartfelt. And yes… it’s steamy too!

If you’re looking for a romance with depth, tension, and beautifully layered characters—this is it.

No Ordinary Love is a whirlwind romance with a R&B Singer, Ella, and a MLB player Miles. When I heard that this was loosely inspired by Mariah Carey and her relationship with Derek Jeter, I was instantly intrigued. If you’re an older millenial like myself, you likely remember that vividly and are also likely a Mariah fan. Miles and Ella had this palpable connection to eachother and I enjoyed watching things blossom and develop between them. Ella is trying to navigate being a celebrity, under public scrutiny while most importantly going through a public divorce. The new love that she found with Miles, was an unexpected and scary diversion from everything going on in her life. Would Ella give in to the desires of her heart and choose herself for once?
My only criticism(if you want to call it that) is that I wish we got more of Ella and Miles! I loved every moment they spent together- from their intimate moments, to their banter, the voice notes, the shyness they both had, etc. I would have liked to see them really loving eachother out loud!
Lastly, I’ll say death to all predatory men who prey on vulnerable women and abuse their power for their own personal gain- yes I’m looking at you Mr. Majors.

This is my first title from Myah Ariel, but won’t be my last! I have When I Think of You, and need to find the time to read it!

No Ordinary Love is perfect for any lover of R&B, celebrity romance fans and those who love to see women WIN.

Thanks so much to @berkleypub @berkleyromance @acebookspub for the free book!

4.5 stars
Thank you Berkley Romance for this arc!

This book was beyond amazing! There are books that fill a part of you that you didn't know needed to be filled, and that's what No Ordinary Love did. It's like music, washing over you and flowing through your soul. A book with a Black woman getting loved DOWN like she deserves? Yes lawd! It's also a lovely tribute to R&B and Black trailblazers in music and sports. Ella is a popstar dealing with a rocky divorce while trying to keep her career that she worked hard for. Miles is a baseball player trying to rebuild his reputation after a messy incident/divorce. When they get together, the resulting soundtrack is a perfect pitch right to your heart.

Myah's writing style is so beautiful that it's almost intoxicating. I was drawn into the book by her immersive and descriptive writing. The songs/soundtrack really gave a vibe to the story and enhanced the emotions, as well as showed feelings and thoughts without them having to be explicitly said. The details were done so well that I felt like I could hear the paparazzi yelling for pictures on the red carpet and I could see the music video scenes playing out in front of me. World building like this is common in fantasy books, but this is the first time that a contemporary romance has put me so fully in the story, and it was beautiful. I also loved the quotes at the beginning of each chapter and how they intertwined with the story.

I could see so much of myself in Ella. Her struggle with trying to keep up a put-together facade while silently falling apart inside was incredibly relatable. It was easy to understand her fears and reservations, so watching her grow and open up was inspiring and heartwarming. She's also incredibly levelheaded and able to understand her mistakes quickly which I appreciate in any character. Now, Miles Rafael Westbrook, put this man on a pedestal!! He is the tippy top of the book boyfriend mountain. Miles was understanding, vulnerable, and very open and communicative. He gave Ella all of the space that she needed while constantly reassuring her that she was worthy of love. Their tension was so palpable that my heart was racing every time they were together. The progression in their relationship was natural and nothing felt rushed or forced. The open door scenes were the cherry on top of their progressing relationship and they were intimate, sensual, and just stunningly written. The found family aspect was also done so well, and I fell in love with many of the side characters.

What I really loved about No Ordinary Love is that even though a main plot line of the story was Ella's divorce, Elliot and his negativity didn't overshadow the book and bring a deep heaviness to it. We mainly get to watch Ella, surrounded by an amazing support system, rediscover herself and fall in love. I am excited to go back and read Myah's first book, as well as any of her future works.

Thank you Netgalley and Myah Ariel for an arc in exchange for an honest review. I would give this 3.5 stars.

Ella was such a great FMC. I really enjoyed watching her grow in confidence and start to recognize her own self-worth, especially with how her relationship with Miles supported that journey.

And Miles? He's officially being added to my book boyfriend hall of fame. He was so sweet, intentional, and endearingly shy. I loved how open he was with his feelings and how quickly he laid his cards on the table. He wasn’t a typical “bad boy,” and I found that so refreshing. He and Ella complemented each other so well. Also, his stutter—I just wanted to hug him. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with having a stutter, and it broke my heart that he felt any shame about it.

The reason I didn’t rate this higher is because the pacing of their romance felt a little too fast. It almost gave me whiplash going from their initial meeting to suddenly being in love. I don’t mind instalove or a one-night stand storyline, but in this case, it felt like we needed more development between those moments. I think if the voice note scenes had happened earlier, it would've helped build their connection more organically. The story had great bones and I just wanted a little more showing of their emotional journey.

Overall, I still enjoyed it and would definitely recommend it to readers who love sweet, supportive love interests and character growth!

I would first like to thank BerleyPub for this digital copy. I was more than surprised and happy to receive it.

No Ordinary Love by Myah Ariel is a heartfelt exploration of love, second chances, self-discovery, and personal growth. Much like her debut When I Think of You, Myah delivers a beautifully crafted narrative that redefines what love can look like.

This novel made me feel. As an avid reader, some stories fade quickly after the final page, but this one lingers. Centered around an R&B singer navigating a life-altering event, the story unfolds with the same depth and emotion as the genre itself. Through Myah’s vivid, lyrical writing, we experience the soul of a song, the rhythm of a renewed chance, and the slow, deliberate walk toward a powerful finale.

With a swoon-worthy book boyfriend, genuine nods to Black history, and a cast of well-rounded, relatable characters, Myah knocks this story out of the park.

While When I Think of You played like a movie, No Ordinary Love sings like a soulful R&B track—rich, intimate, and unforgettable. It’s the perfect read to kick off a season of new beginnings. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone in search of a story that resonates long after the last page.

I have been really enjoying romances that have a musical artist lately, so i was really excited to read this.

Ella Simone is a Grammy award winning popstar. On the outside, she has it all, a thriving career and a successful marriage. Behind the scenes, she is going through a divorce and is trying to find out who Ella is outside of that. Ella's soon to be ex is a piece of sh*t,and outside of his cheating ways, he's trying to take away her career with the divorce.

She meets Miles Westbrook, an MLB pitcher backstage at an awards show, where he saves her when she has a wardrobe malfunction. The attraction and connection were instant. After a media storm, their teams decide to lean into it a little bit with different opportunities. From there, the relationship grows into something real, and they eventually fall in love.

What I loved about the story: Ella deciding to fight back against her Ex, and reclaim who she is in her career outside of him; The growing relationship between her and Miles, especially the voice notes; and her glam team friendship and support.

What I would've liked more of: her and Miles together; Miles POV would've been perfect for this story, especially since he had his own things going on.

It was a cute story, and I am excited to see what happens between Gabe and Jaime, I'm hoping their story will be dual poverty.

Thank you, Netgalley, for the advanced copy.

I enjoyed No Ordinary Love a lot more than I thought I would. Ella and Miles's relationship was super sweet, but I wish we had more secret meetings between them, and the vulnerability over voice notes could've been in person. Even if it were a 50/50 split between in-person and voice notes, it would've added a more realistic take on their romance. I also enjoyed the pop culture references, they didn't feel forced or overdone.

I do wish that the book was a dual pov.

4.5⭐️

An emotional and heartfelt look at leaving behind a table that no longer serves you and finding your place to shine.

Disclaimer: I did receive this as a physical copy from Berkley romance, as well as an audiobook from the PRH Audio influencer group. All opinions are my own. This is my honest and voluntary review.

I had the best time with this book honestly. This is a contemporary romance centered around a pop princess and a MLB superstar. Both are on the heels of messy and tragic break ups and looking to find their spark again. As you can imagine there's many roadblocks to trusting yourself and others around you when you have been in a messy and toxic relationship in the past. Add in the paparazzi and the tabloids who would love to see you fall, it's a recipe for ultimate disaster. But the way that this unfolded was so realistic and heartwarming.

We have pop princesses Ella, Simone, and Miles Westbrook MLB superstar who are both at the end of tabloid snafu and toxic relationship relationships. Set up to play off of an unfortunate circumstance at the Grammys to get them some positive press they do a music video together and the sparks fly. But with so much baggage on both of their plates and people who are destined to watch them fail, not to mention strange family, relationship, relationships, will they be able to break through everything together and find happiness?

I really like this novel a whole lot. It was a very slow buildup and honestly for most of the beginning of the novel we're basically just with Ella as she is trying to navigate the beginnings of a tumultuous divorce as well as figuring out what she wants to take as next steps in her career. There is sprinklings of tension between her and Miles, but for the most part, Miles isn't really a product of the book until about 50% of the way through. This really endeared me towards Ella but I was starting to be concerned I wouldn't have a feel for the relationship or miles by the end of the book with so little time left. luckily the chemistry between Ella and Miles was so tantalizing this was not an issue. I definitely felt some endearment towards Miles by the end of the novel and was really invested and rooted in the relationship. I really wish Ella had had more confidence in herself, although I do understand why she didn't to an extent, but Miles was super forthcoming and honest and very open with her all the time so I felt like her indecision and lack of trust in herself and in her instincts dragged on a little bit too long towards the end. I did, however, really enjoy the ending and loved where things were left. I really enjoyed the pop culture references, including all the R&B and music jargon. It really lent an air of authenticity to the novel and the career paths.

I think the next book will encompass their friends, Greg and Jamie. At least I hope it will. Cause I would really love to see what's playing out there.

I thoroughly enjoyed this charming story about finding love again. The characters were funny and relatable; I especially liked the chemistry between Ella and Miles. I liked how Ella had a strong support system while grieving her marriage, and how she found love with Miles, who had also experienced loss. It was a wonderful read, and I will certainly read more from Myah Ariel.

Thank you to #netgalleyarc #berkeleypublishinggroup

Myah Ariel is now an autobuy author for me. I loved her previous novel "When I Think of You" and this was not a disappointment either. I loved Miles and Eladie. Their slowburn romance was so great! The yearning between both of them was to die for. I loved the music elements and the inspiration of Mariah Carey!