Narrated by Weruche Opia
Publisher: Review
Age: Adult
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Format: Audiobook
Published: 5th July, 2022
Rating: 5/5 Stars
I have a new favourite author after this! Honey & Spice is as delicious as the title suggests, and I’m so pleased I finally got around to the audiobook. The narrator does brilliantly, really bringing Kiki Banjo to life and nailing the humour at the heart of the book.
Kiki is the host of Brown Sugar, dispensing advice on men and relationships – especially in avoiding them – on her student radio show. In applying for a summer placement, Kiki is told by her advisor she would do well to expand her listener base. Although it’s suggested she works with film student Malakai, Kiki has heard enough about his antics to dub him the “Wasteman of Whitewell”. But, of course, events lead to the two fake dating and working together on a documentary about romantic relationships.
There is chemistry. Sparks fly between the two, despite how much Kiki wishes they wouldn’t. And as the book progresses, it’s not only her listenership that expands or romantic relationship that deepens. Kiki finds herself becoming more involved in her community, revising her judgement of the other women around her, and building up her confidence in the process.
It was delightful to listen to. Babalola’s book is full of heart and humour, captured perfectly by Opia. I loved that Kiki is a fantasy romance girlie, I adored her relationship with her best friend, and I appreciated how Babalola captured the realities and difficulties of young womanhood, especially with the trials Kiki has faced prior to coming to Whitewell and the way these have shaped her.
Absolutely get this added to your TBR – you won’t regret it!
Reading Challenge
Twenty Genres in 2026
Prompt: Contemporary or BOTM
Progress: 17/20
