A Love That Sets the Bar Higher

Having followed this story from its indie publishing roots to its traditional release, I can confidently say this novel has earned its place among my all-time favorites. This isn't just another romance – it's a masterclass in what it means to be genuinely, unabashedly loved.

At its heart, the story follows Janelle, our bookish heroine who finds herself in the classic romance predicament of being a bridesmaid at her sister's destination wedding. The twist? The groom is her ex. Enter Rome, the best man and her ex's best friend, who's been secretly pining for Janelle. When they finally give in to their mutual attraction, Janelle proposes a one-week affair, but their chemistry and connection prove harder to contain than either expected.

What sets this story apart isn't just its delicious premise – it's the way it portrays love in all its messy, beautiful glory. The family drama adds layers of complexity that feel authentic rather than manufactured, while Rome and Janelle's relationship develops with a tenderness that had me alternately swooning and crying happy tears. The banter between characters is genuinely hilarious, making the whole experience feel like binge-watching your new favorite TV show.

As a Black woman and reader, this book resonated with me on a profound level. It's rare to find stories that so beautifully portray Black women being loved gently, thoroughly, and out loud. Rome doesn't just tolerate Janelle's bookworm tendencies – he actively participates in her passions, setting a new standard for what supportive partnership looks like. And honestly? We need more of that energy.

The author handles complex themes like strained family relationships and boundary-setting with remarkable sensitivity. These elements add depth to the romance without overwhelming it, creating a story that feels both escapist and grounded in reality. The traditionally published version includes a "behind the epilogue" section that provides an extra layer of satisfaction to an already perfect ending.

For readers who love:
- Destination wedding settings
- Best friend's ex complications
- Character-driven family drama
- Bookish heroines
- Black love stories that feel authentic and inspiring
- Stories about choosing yourself while finding love

This novel is more than just a romance – it's an affirmation that the kind of love we read about in fiction can and does exist in real life. It's a reminder that we all deserve to be loved intentionally and completely. If the phrase "if he wanted to, he would" was a book, this would be it.

*I received an ARC via NetGalley and Zando Projects and am leaving my review voluntarily.*

This is my first time reading a book by Natasha Bishop and I must say that I had a ball and I so enjoyed reading about Janelle and Rome. If you’re a lover of messy family drama then this is one book that you will not want to miss out on. What an interesting read and I do mean interesting. Janelle is the bridesmaid at her sister’s destination wedding to her ex and there is family drama. Rome who is the best man and the best friend of Janelle’s ex and he has been secretly pinning for her. Rome knows that Janelle is off limits but the heart wants what the heart wants. When Rome and Janelle give into their feelings Janelle proposes that their affair only last for one week. Despite all the family drama Janelle and Rome are great together.

Will Janelle and Rome take their relationship beyond the one week that Janelle has agreed to and is there another destination on the way?

I received an ARC via NetGalley and Zando Projects and l am leaving my review voluntarily.

I really thought I was going to love this book, but for some reason I just can’t get into it. It’s definitely more of a personal thing, rather than a problem with the book itself. It’s starting off very smutty, which isn’t my style. Plus, so far, the male main character is coming off one dimensional to me (but that may change if I was able to move further). I’d you like romance with a higher smut level, you’ll probably connect with this one more than I did!

CW: gaslighting, toxic familial relationships, manipulation, fighting/violence

This was a super spicy vacation romance that I really enjoyed! I really loved Janelle and Rome together. The complicated family elements were a little frustrating at times (Amerie was truly the worst) but overall this was an enjoyable read!

When I tell you this book is EVERYTHING, believe me! @natashabishopwrites delivered Black love, family drama, and a whole lot of heat wrapped up in one glorious Tulum getaway. 🌴✨

Let’s start with Janelle—our girl is thriving as a successful OB-GYN, but her sister Amerie? She’s out here doing the most, marrying Janelle’s ex and expecting her to smile through it all as maid of honor. If you thought Bridezilla was bad, Amerie might just set a new standard for toxic sibling energy. But Janelle? She’s unbothered (mostly) and ready for a week of letting loose. Cue Rome Martin—Mr. Tall, Dark, and Absolutely Perfect. 😍

Rome has been secretly crushing on Janelle for years, and let’s just say he’s not holding back this time.

The chemistry? SCORCHING. 🔥

Their “just for a week” fling quickly becomes the main event, stealing the show from all the wedding chaos. Rome is the definition of a book boyfriend—protective without being overbearing, sweet but not soft, and with enough BDE to make every reader weak in the knees. (Seriously, where do I order one?) 😏

The drama with Janelle’s family is messy in all the best ways. Amerie had me throwing imaginary side eyes from page one, and the family tension was so real it hurt. Janelle and Rome’s connection was everything I didn’t know I needed. Their stolen moments, late-night talks, and Rome standing up for Janelle? Chef’s kiss. 💋

The buildup, the banter, the undeniable pull between them—it’s a slow-burn romance lover’s dream come true.

By the end, you’ll laugh, cry, and absolutely want to fight Amerie (IYKYK). But one thing’s for sure—you’ll be rooting for Janelle and Rome to get their happily ever after. This book is Black love at its finest, with all the sweet, spicy, and swoon-worthy moments you could ask for.


If you love forced proximity, he-falls-first energy, messy family drama, and “what happens in Tulum might just follow you home” vibes, Only for the Week needs to be on your shelf ASAP! 📚

*Only for the Week* by Natasha Bishop is the perfect blend of sizzling chemistry, forbidden attraction, and whirlwind romance that will leave you hot under the collar and completely hooked from the very first page. If you’re looking for a book that will make you blush, keep you on the edge of your seat, and have you craving more with every chapter, this is *it*.

The premise is simple but oh-so-effective: two people with undeniable chemistry agree to a no-strings-attached arrangement for just one week. But what starts as a casual fling quickly escalates into something far more intense. Bishop doesn’t waste any time diving into the heat between her two leads, delivering scenes that are steamy, full of tension, and packed with passion. The chemistry between them is *off the charts*—you’ll feel the sparks fly through the pages, each encounter more electrifying than the last.

What makes *Only for the Week* truly irresistible is how Bishop balances the steam with depth. The characters aren’t just smoldering eye-candy—they’re multi-dimensional, with real emotions and stakes that pull you deeper into the story. Their push-pull dynamic is addicting, as they fight (and sometimes give in) to the intense connection building between them. Each steamy moment is charged with emotion, making the romance all the more satisfying.

The writing itself is sharp, engaging, and filled with sexual tension. Bishop has a knack for making every encounter feel electric, every kiss linger, and every touch feel like a promise of more. It’s not just about the heat (though, trust me, it’s *very* hot)—it’s about the slow burn that builds with each page and the delicious anticipation that keeps you turning the pages until you’re finished.

If you’re in the mood for a steamy, fast-paced romance that will have your heart racing and your temperature rising, *Only for the Week* is a must-read. It’s passionate, provocative, and will leave you wanting more—long after the week (and the book) is over. Natasha Bishop has created a story that’s as addictive as it is irresistible, and you’ll be counting down the days until her next release.

Only for the Week is easily a top read of the year for me.
Does being maid of honor at your sister's wedding to your ex (you broke up with him, though!) sound stressful enough? Well, just you wait. When stressed-out Dr. Janelle Cross connects with Rome, the irresistibly thick best man who's been secretly pining for her, their fling turns into something deliciously complicated and more.
I absolutely MELTED watching Rome shower Janelle with the attention she deserves while helping her break away from her people-pleasing ways and her sister's bridezilla drama. While it might just look like a cute romcom vacation romance, Only for the Week brough the steam AND the feels, with an MMC that falls first and hard and isn't afraid to show it through the sweetest words of affirmation and gestures. And while of course I love Rome and it's so easy to identify with Janelle as a fellow self-sacrificing people pleaser, I ALSO loved the thicker representation from both of them. I'm a fellow thick girl so hearing Rome has tree trunk thighs was like HELLO??? Bumped up to the tiptop of my attractive men list.
Come for the forbidden fling romance with beachy vibes and stay for the phenomenal characters and being loved the way you deserve to be loved.

I was absolutely captivated by this book; I could not put this book down. The love and friendships in this book was absolutely beautiful! Janelle's and Rome's chemistry was amazing. It is one that I Iong for-- love, passion, good sex, and one in which I am able to rest in my femininity. Janelle's family drama forced her to set boundaries and do what was best for her. I pray Ms. Bishop has a sequel coming.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher, and Natasha Bishop for an ARC copy of Only For The Week.

I ATE THIS BOOK UP IN ONE DAYYYY! That’s a first for me so you know this book was good. Thank you creative book tours and Natasha Bishop for allowing me to help promote and review Only For The Week. I love the new cover for this book as well 🔥

Rome, Rome, Romeeee 💕 he made my heart melt throughout the entire book. I can see why everyone said he’s their book boyfriend. When he wants something, he’s not going to stop until it’s his. All the pressure was applied and Janelle deserved it all. Omgggg the ending had me swooning hard!! How he proposed to her 😍 now that’s what you call love and a very creative way to do it!

As for Janelle’s mom and sister 😒 they can go to hell! I’m not understanding why they thought they could treat her like that when Arnold dated Janelle first. If anything, her sister ain’t shit for dating her ex. I’m not even going to waste my energy on them anymore ✋🏾 I’m so happy Janelle found her voice and spoke up for herself.

Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Only For The Week by Natasha Bishop Is a cute romance novel with Consent being a key part of the relationship and Janelle needing to set boundaries for those around her. The writing and pace of the story were well done and I don't have a negative word to say about the story that being said I must say That Janelle's sister is awful and she doesn't deserve an amazing sister like Janelle. Evie is the best friend everyone needs in their life and Rome being the consent king has my heart.

Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read Only for the Week.

Listen- I was giggling and kicking my feet throughout this WHOLE BOOK. Spicy and fun romance where the best book boyfriend actually stands up for his girl! This was so fun- I loved the ensemble (except for Amerie and Arnold…they were the WORST) and I’m keeping my fingers crossed that we will get sequels about Dani, Micah, Evie, Christian, and Jalen! 4.5 stars

This book was easily one of my top reads of 2023. I read it when it was indie-published, and to see it now traditionally published warms my heart as a reader. If any book deserves this, it's this one.

I loved so many things about this book. It screamed, "Free all my girls from the bare minimum!" Not only did it force me to raise my standards, but it also gave me hope. I admit, sometimes it can be triggering to read black romance as I tend to feel I'll never have the love that's depicted. However, this book gave me some much-needed reassurance that although fiction, this love does and can exist in the real world. And I am deserving of it.

It was a breath of fresh air to read about a black woman being genuinely and gently loved. The character banter was hilarious and literally had me laughing out loud. It felt like I was watching a TV show. This book is truly the epitome of what it looks like to illustrate a black woman getting the love and treatment she deserves. Bishop gives readers a vivid portrait of what it looks like when a black woman is loved out loud all the way through.

I may be biased (for obvious reasons), but I loved that Janelle was a bookworm. I also loved how Rome not only catered to but participated in her interests under that umbrella. Additionally, I liked how this story highlighted important topics such as strained family relationships. Most importantly, what it looks like when you choose yourself and set boundaries. Though sensitive, these topics were handled with care.

The traditionally published version also contains a “behind the epilogue” section, which made me love the ending of this book even more!

Overall, this book was amazing and certainly one of my favorite books of all time. If "if he wanted to, he would" was a book.

🧡🩷💜 🆂🅴🆅🅴🅽 🅻🅸🆃 🆃🅷🅸🅽🅶🆂 💛💜💚
|| 𝓞𝓷𝓵𝔂 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓦𝓮𝓮𝓴 by Natasha Bishop||

𝗜𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗵 𝗮 𝘀𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲?
- Ms. Bishop, you are definitely worth a second chance. I hate it took me so long to read this! I’m glad there’s a series.

𝗠𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗮𝘄𝗮𝘆:
- Bishop’s love story between Rome and Janelle goes beyond intense chemistry and great sex. It illustrates the potential for love and joy to blossom. More significantly, the author emphasizes that the most profound form of love involves allowing oneself to experience joy and love fully. Janelle’s confidence and self-assurance enabled her to transcend the superficiality of a casual hookup, revealing her vulnerability and paving the way for a forever love. While genuine love exists, the question remains: are people willing to invest the necessary effort into nurturing it?

𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗺𝗲𝘀:
- The power of “NO”
- Effective Communication in Relationships
- Love as Action
- Emotional Vulnerability

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗱𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸’𝘀 𝗰𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿?
- The book’s new cover is a heartfelt tribute to Black love and joy. It beautifully captures the essence of being completely enamored and engrossed in a romantic relationship.

𝗗𝗶𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸’𝘀 𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝘀𝗲𝗲𝗺 𝘁𝗼𝗼 𝗳𝗮𝘀𝘁/𝘁𝗼𝗼 𝘀𝗹𝗼𝘄/𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁?
- The book’s pace was just right. Intense chemistry. Just enough spice to keep you reading for more details. I was sad it was over so quickly.

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗳𝗲𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗱𝗶𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗲𝘃𝗼𝗸𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂?
- Many feelings: joy, excitement, frustration, fun, tense, bliss, anger, and patience.

𝗜𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗮𝘀𝗸 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴, 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘄𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗶𝘁 𝗯𝗲?
- Do you believe that there are men today who love Black women as passionately and fearlessly as Rome? Also, is Rome your ultimate book boyfriend or do you have another one in mind?

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to #partners  @coloredpagesbt, @zandoprojects, and @natashabishopwrites for the free book and tour spot. Also, to @everand_us for the audiobook access.

🏷 #OnlyForTheWeekTour #NatashaBishop #gifted #ColoredPagesBookTours #BlackAuthors #BlackRomance #bookreview #BooksToRead #Bookish #Bookstagrammer #BookLover #wellreadblackgirl

Only for the Week had me hooked from the start! The friend groups and their dynamics were so interesting and entertaining. Janelle’s best friend Evie was a true ride or die. And Rome? Total book boyfriend material! He was so in tune with Janelle’s needs, giving her what she needed before she even asked. Loved it!

On the flip side, Janelle’s family drama was quite the “ugh” factor for her. The themes of setting boundaries and doing what is best for you really hit home.

This story about a fling turning into forever had me smiling, and the new additional content of Janelle and Rome’s lives pre and post-epilogue (six chapters!) was such a treat. I enjoyed getting more of their story.

If you’re in the mood for a heartwarming, quick read, you’ve got to check this one out!

Only for the Week captivated me from start to finish! The story of Rome and Janelle was so engaging that even after the bonus scenes, I found myself wishing for more. Natasha's writing style is refreshing and impactful; she truly fills a gap in contemporary literature by showcasing multi-dimensional Black characters. These characters possess a strong attitude yet are beautifully complex, demonstrating a wonderful range of emotions and experiences.

While the narrative itself was fantastic, I did find the formatting of the advance copy to be somewhat challenging at times. It occasionally hindered the reading experience, but the compelling story made it worthwhile. Overall, I highly recommend Only for the Week to anyone looking for a rich, character-driven story that resonates deeply. We definitely need more books like this!

"Only For the Week" has been on my radar for a while. I didn't realize that this was the same book due to its new cover & being traditionally republished ! This did not disappoint!

Being a beach/travel lover, the island vibes definitely had me locked in from the start. I was rooting for Rome & Janelle to stop playing around and just get together! I loved Rome - I think he's my new book boyfriend! 🤭 The dates & surprises! The attention & honesty he gave Janelle! 😍

The spice & banter were turned up! I loved how it fit in with the storyline much more than I anticipated.

It's not often that a character gets on my nerves & has me talking to the book, but I wanted to knock Cortez & Amerie out. Whewww! A few topics are included such as manipulation, toxic familial relationships & gaslighting, (which are well thought out) but might be sensitive for some.

This book was SO fun to read. I can't wait to see what else is in store for Rome & Janelle!

Thank you to NetGalley & Zando Projects for the eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.❤️

Oh my god this is the book that pulled me out of my reading slump.

If you are in the need of summer romance vibes with complex family dynamics, this is a well written book with perfect spice to get you going but so many important conversations that you need to have sometimes with your family.

The written style takes some time getting used to due to all the lingo used but its still is perfect!!!

Rome is my perfect fictional man and I wont hear a word against him.

ugh this was so good. Like so good. Even better a second time. I love this man. I love this woman. I love these two and the drama. FAVE.

I love Rome so much. I love this so much. I throw flowers at this book and I'll always recommend it.

I got an e-arc of this book on NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Only for the Week is written in first person dual POV. It is my first Natasha Bishop read and I absolutely loved it!

This starts out with Janelle finding out her ex is marrying her sister. and that she is expected to be the maid of honor at their destination wedding in Tullum, Mexico.
Only for the Week gives us FWB to Lovers, Forced Proximity, Epic Banter, Best Man x Maid of Honor, and HE RENTS HER A YACHT!!!!

I’m so happy to see this book getting a new cover with traditional publishing. The chemistry and banter was so good. This story had all the best elements. A good book boyfriend good friends and good chemistry