Chapter 1

Our car rolled through the streets of Alexandra, Joburg. Shacks packed all the way through till we were met with RDps on a street that had potholes. The car swayed trying to prevent the pot holes, it's like we are driving in a gravel road. I looked through the window watching kids playing on the street, busting with happiness, they moved to the side for the car to pass, then continued playing. As I was observing my surroundings, next to a shop there was a tshisanyama attached to it. We drove further down before we turned a corner where there was a tavern, momentarily stopped next to a small RDP house.

“And here we are, we've arrived,”Mom said.

I signed as I went to open the gate. Oh oh, it doesn't seem to be open right now.

“Ivaliwe mama!” (it's closed mom)

“Call for Sphesihle!” She yelled.

I went to the front small gate, which showed the whole view of the house, a cream four room house, painted with black at the bottom in a neat line. It also had a beautiful lawn with a short nicely trimmed tree.

“Siphesihle!” I shouted while shaking the chains on the gate. This is how we used to do it whenever we came here. But as years went on we didn't really come here much even though there's Siphesihle, my older sister and first born but she has a different father us, when I say us, I mean me and my older brother, Luyolo. Siphesihle always lived with grandma, apparently when mom got married she left her with grandma.

“Siphesishle!” I called again. Then the door opened, she appeared,she was a yellow bone and had long braids, her skinned looked flawless,. Honestly, she's been my inspiration but mom seemed to not talk very fondly of her. Siphesihle walked out wearing a short skirt that looked fly.

She reached the gate and opened.

“Hi,” I greeted her eagerly.

“Hello, Ovayo.” She greeted back more nonchalantly as she opened the gate. I want to compliment her.

My moms car drove in, we were lucky to get that car. My parents are currently going through a divorce, and to say the least life hasn't been what I had expected, things have been tough the couple of months, my dads abuse towards mom, dad moved on with his life with a younger lady. To make matters worse, mom was a house wife and never had a job in her life. Which is why we are here.

Mom gets out of the car as Siphesihle was going back to the house,

Mom frowned. “Where are you going young lady?”

Sihle stopped on her tracks.

”Come help us with the bags. “

Theres a lot of suitcases, the whole seat is full of them. You can imagine packing your whole entire life. Things are going to get a little crazy.

Sihle comes to the car.

"What are you even wearing?" Mom says as she's staring at her skirt.

"Mnk" Mom shakes her head. “No wonder you got pregnant at 16.” oh yeah she has two kids but they stay with their father from the last time I heard. She's 23 now and works as a hairdresser.

Sihle doesn't say anything as pulls a suitcase.

"I think you look cute," I said once, mom is out of site and we are wheeling the suitcases to the house.

"Thanks." She gives me a warm smile.

We talked as she wheeled the suitcases. "So how's life in the burbs?"

"Quiet." I looked next door; the tavern as music continues to blast. "It seems like it's noisy here."

"You'll get used to it."

I sighed. I'm thinking I have school to worry about, there's a tavern next to our house and there's a tavern not too far from where we are. That's a lot of taverns if you ask me. I'm hoping that it won't be much trouble when I have to study because I'm in my second year studying to become a teacher.

I wish I could be Luyolo, at least he lives in res and I can't because mom forbids it. I can't live far away from her. Her words not mine.

We get into the house, sihle is leading the way. A smelly of fresh clothes softener bits my nose. The entrance leads to a lounge room which had vintage furniture, those low sofas and a small table in the middle with wool cloth and fake yellow flowers. On the wall was a huge painting of a ship. As I walked past the wall unit, there a decoder on top a the TV, it's the olden TVs with a huge back. The last time I was here there wasn't a DSTV, only the TV. Things have improved.

As we walk through the passage. We bump into Khulu, she was busy greeting my mom and had a smile that seemed little but forced. She then looked at me.

"Hello Mzukulu." She hugged me while she went for handshake. As she pulled back, her hand was still on mine.

"Which grade are you in now?"

"I'm done with school. I'm in second year in university."

"You lie!" She put one hand in her mouth.

I smiled not knowing what to do or say. I hate these awkward conversations.

“Okay ke, ndiyakuva.” She said.

"Nipheke ke natsika ..." She was now talking to mom.

"Not a problem Khulu." My mom also called grandma Khulu even though that's her mom. We've grown up with things being like that.

Mom went to the kitchen while I followed Sihle who was now in the bed room.

"You'll be sleeping here with me. " Said Sihle. There's two single beds here so I guess I'll be using the other one.

"Okay. Where should I put this suitcase?"

She points next to a three part brown wardrobe. The room felt a little erly. It was a bit dark with nude curtains and stuffed up with miscellaneous things. It wasn't a big room honestly.

We went to get more stuff from the car and we started unpacking.

"Siphesihle!" Mom called.

"Sisi!" Sihle replied. Siphesihle went to the kitchen where mom was, oh Siphesihle calls mom Sisi, for some reason. And momentarily she came back counting money.

"I'm going to the shop. Do you want to come with me? It will be good for exposure...touring Ekasi, you see." She said put the money in the bed and started brushing her hair.

"Oh okay." I mean it's not really a bad idea. She then put on a lip stick. That's a lot of work for going to the shop.

"Want some?" She offered.

I shook my head lightly.

"I'm good."

"Take, " she pushed the lipstick to me. " You need it. Your lips are chopped...dry like a desert and I'm not going to be walking with a chopped person." Ouch. Just so happened that I hadn't hydrated my lips. I wouldn't say I'm chopped through. I mean yeah I have big round eyes, they aren't too bad, or should I say I hope. I'm also light skinned. And have my cornrows.

I took the lipstick and put it on. It smells good like lavender.

Sihle puts on a spray and then shares it with me. We then walk out. Okay I think it's about time I learn how to be a proper girl. Good thing I have a sister. I'm scared of her a little though, she's a bit intimidating. I think it's because she's my older sister.

I walk down the street with Sihle by my side, the atmosphere feels different. A little, there are kids playing three tins game. Some running, playing touch game. The street is alive…adding in a relaxed and happy feeling. The kids laughter adds another layer on how the whole street is like. Care free, which isn't something that I'm used to. People are outside doing laundry, music is busting in some houses down the street. In Pretoria, where we used to stay with dad, it was so quiet. You'd barely hear anyone making a sound. There were no kids playing outside. It was just peaceful and quiet. Honestly I would have preferred this growing up. I once had a friend who lived in the house next to khulus house. We used to have a blast together whenever I came and she was the reason why I looked forward to coming here but obviously we stopped coming so the friendship died too. I do have friends though. Mthetho, he's been my friend since he moved in my street in Pretoria and we're still friends even now, in the same university even.

Sihle was just telling me more about the place, chatting. Next to the shop there was tshisanyama, the one we passed earlier and the meat smelled so good, there's a crowd of boys next to the shop, leaning against the wall smoking. Sihle made a serious face as we passed next to them.

“Yah Sihle?” One of them shouted. She did not even entertain them.

"I see we've got fresh meat" one guy said. That's crazy.

Suhle shot the guy a glare.” Uzulinge TK...ngumntana loo Jonga intanga zakho marn!(don't you dare...this is a kid, look at your peers please)’

We entered the shop. It was fairly empty inside.

Sihle: cela iSalt ne knorox ne chips my Friend. That's how we call the cashiers who work at Spaza shops. -my friend-

“how many?” My friend asked Suhle.

“Only one.”

He took the items

My friend looked at me”Is she your sister?”

“How much will these be?” She ignored that question.

My friend continued “You are beautiful hey, you know...you and me alone ... together”

Ugh is he talking to me?

“ndzakudibanisa noludonga ke mna kowam usisi (I'll hit you up with wall if you try if on my sister)”

We bought what we wanted then went out, as we were walking, we heard a hooter behind us, it was Gusheshe that was driving slowly, swerving potholes, the window was rolled all the way down, the driver had his hand on the window, while driving on the parts that had good tar road, we moved to the side to let the car pass since there's no pavement. The car stopped right next to us, the driver had a matchstick on his mouth, a white bucket hat on his head with a striped red shirt and he had dark lips.

“Sihle!” He smiled, Sihle shifted uncomfortably.

He positioned his hand for a fist bump. Sihle moved forward and fist bumped his hand. Then the guy's eyes shifted to me.

“Who do you have here?” I also started feeling uneasy because if Sihle is suddenly looking so scared of him, who am I?

Sihle moved closer to me. “She's just a kid. Leave her alone.”

He touched his heart looking offended.

“I was just passing a greeting to the new citizen in our community.”

He locked eyes with me, his eyes had a bit of red and a little of brown in them.

He opened his hand for a dab. I hesitated.

“I don't bite.” He said smiling revealing one dimple, his eyes sparkling a little.

I slid my palm onto his hand, our hands interlocked. An electric spark flew right through me as our hands touched. My heart started beating fast as he clicked his thumb with mine, not letting go of my hand just yet.

“I’m Siyasanga Dayimane.” He said, I nodded, acknowledging his intro.

“So I'm not going to have your name?”

“No, she's not giving you her name. We're running late, you need to move your car out of the way, we want to walk.” Sihle pulled my hand.

Siya stared at Sihle, “Okay…never knew asking a name would be a crime.” He glanced at me one more time then drove off leaving dust.

We waved the dust out of our faces instinctively.

“Who was that?” I asked curiously.

“One guy you don't want to get on their wrong side. And please Ovayo, try to avoid him as much as you can. A lot of people are scared of him so do yourself a favour and stay away from anything that spells Siyasanga Dayimane.”

That was a weird encounter. Surely something like that won't be happening again because at least I'll be in school most of the time so I doubt I'd ever run into him. Just by thinking about him sends chills over my body. To read other chapters you can subscribe on my website (AMswelibooks): Click here to continue reading It's R60 to subscribe and the story is exclusively available on my website, no where else. I upload chapter by chapter and currently were on chapter 5. You can also search AMswelibooks on Google as well, that's my site.

By the way Omphile Ka Zuko is now officially complete.

All books feel blant, no substance, not memorable, it just feels like I'm reading the same book again and again. Obviously not all but recently written books.

A lot of books currently, in the 2026 era are mostly focused on Zulu men, taxi drivers, which now feels like a repetition or reading the same story again and again. Of which there's seriously nothing wrong with that as long as there's a twist in the story, the writing is good and it's interesting. Because that's what a lot of stories lack, it feels as if it's literally a copy and paste of the other book I just read 20 minutes ago and I don't want to read that. I want to read a unique story. How about a self insertion? That's never a bad idea.

There are contemporary authors in South Africa, yes. And they are very much talented, but for me, I think it's reading on kindle, the platform is not something that I'm used to, I also don't mind paying to read a book but it's just the interface for me. I love reading books on visionary writings (I know the platform doesn't pay authors,but it does have some great reads from before 2020). Also I really enjoy reading books on Facebook and also physical books. Overall reading books on stardust literacy has been my go to, I just read books there although it's hard finding good books. Like it's very very hard to find a good book there hence this page, I write more articles on books I'd recommend you read.

I wish there were more novels being written about the average girl in Kasi, the type of novels that we used to read around 2016 titled, I diary ka Omuhle, I diary ka Philasande, those novels hit home.

The relatability of how they used to explain their routine that seemed similar to mine. How the girl was a quiet girl, and a girl who goes to church. I definitely can relate to that. But obviously my life is not that dramatic. One thing that used to get me thou, was how they were a perfect kid and then next thing, every bad thing happens to them, drama upon drama. But I was here for it. One story that I like a lot in that era was Dear fear, ohhh the writing, how the author poured the emotions of what the character was feeling. I don't think it's on Facebook anymore now. Some stories were drawn from personal experience with a bit of fiction. And you could tell. There's just something about a story that's written in such a way, the way words are used, how you become attached to the story as a reader. I recently read a story similar to that from visionary writings and it had me hooked from the get go. The female main character had a child and how that had been a disappointment to her mother, that she had to work harder to get to where she is. Which is something that is very common in real life but not something that you really see portrayed in novels.

That type of realism. I need it in my novels. I need to read something like that.

One thing that has been a game changer was actually discovering that there's a whole genre called Urban fiction/ street lit. That changed everything for me because that's exactly what I like, the types of books where there's gangsters and there's violence, like dark stuff, I like that. I don't want to read about a man who doesn't own a gun like …I know that sounds toxic but…here me out. There's something about a man who will do everything for her woman, like they are overly possessive, they kill for their woman like I eat that shit uppp. I love it. It makes me fold. Obviously this only applies in novels because in real life that's not cute situation. And fiction is fiction.

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But you see the drama in street lit. The drama in events like Park and chill, spinning events, street racing, a story based on the Life style lounge owner who apparently got that wealth through money laundering and the cops are investigating them. Like those types of books. And I think that part is not tapped into, the part of lounge owners, how they stay afloat, like a story that will go in detail, like they are involved in that type of business. Just imagine the angst that would be and add family drama because we know there would be some.

I'm still saying that, more street lit, Kasi stories need to be told. We need more of those books, please my fellow South African authors. Or I'll write them 😂

That wasn't professionally published right. That's exactly what I mean.

Please consider subscribing if you want more of these recommendations and be notified every time I drop new recommendations.

With that being said, here are some book recommendations

Gangster novels 💕

Omphile Ka Zuko: read here

Omphile is a nineteen year old girl from Kasi, in Soweto. She's the quiet type of girl who stays home. She and her friend, Sips go out to a spinning event, where she catches the eye of Zuko. One of the popular car spinners.

This story revolves around spinning events, the rush, the stunts and also Zuko and Omphile.

You can read here

Uthando me gintsa : Read here

It's about this girl who went to a party, she's a carefree girl but underaged. Her friends bribe the bouncer for her to get in. When she goes out momentarily, she can't get in. And she can't get access to her friends. This guy, the manager, argues with her when she wants to get in and then he takes her to his home so she can sleep over. It continues but that's what I've read so far.

The problem with this novel is the fact that it romantises getting with an underage kid. Basically grooming so that's what I don't really like about it.

You can Read here

Darkest obsession: Read here

LINDIWE is a detective who has been tasked to investigate and arrest Xolani Mazibuko, a cartel leader. Xolani is intrigued by her, he kidnaps her so she can fall for him. There's a lot of angst, lots of tension in this book and it's definitely worth it.

Darkest Desire: Read here

This is the second book of darkest obsession. It's not yet completed but it continues there.

I found peace in him: Read here

This book is great first of all, but it didn't take the direction that I thought. You'll see when you read it. So umh... this girl is a church girl, doesn't really have parents and the pastors son needs a wife.

You can stop reading here if you don't want spoilers. So what happened now, she doesn't want him, the pastor's son. She works at a retail store and bumps into a wall which happens to be kwenzo, this guy who is a gangster. You can only imagine what happens after that.

The safe house : Read here

There is a shootout at the scrap yard where, Russ and Saka work, Russ is shoot and he needs medical help and they are in danger of being killed because they don't know who was out here trying to get them. They also can't go to the hospital but they need a doctor.

Esihle is opening her car to go home after her shift as a medical doctor when a man out of nowhere closes her mouth and tells her to drive. The man is Saka. He kidnaps her basically, to tend to Russ, his brother and they use her house to keep themselves safe from the guys who are out there to get him. Thing is, she finds Saka hot, and Russ thinks she's hot. So...Yeah

You can read this here.

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That's all the books I can recommend, make sure to

subscribe for more novel recommendations.

I usually spent my Friday evenings tucked away in my small room at my university residence, surrounded by textbooks, studying my life away because I want a bright future, as my mother says. She always tells me that education is my only way and that I can't afford to stay distracted. That's what I've been holding onto, no boys, just me, my books and Sibongile, my friend.

But today, things took a turn.

Sibongile burst into my room, rolled her eyes at my sight.

“Still at it?”

“Yeah, I ..I have to get these case laws. Exam season is soon and …”

“Girl, you've just written a hard ass test just earlier today. Don't you want to give yourself a break. Maybe…?” She pouts.

“I'm not going to a club. “ Those are her vibes and sometimes I go but they drain the life out of me.

“Who said anything about a club?”

I stared at her expecting something.

“We're going to a spinning event. ”

I widen my eyes. Those events are illegal.

“I don't have anyone to go with. You're the only one I was thinking of taking. Soweto is your home so…”

I sighed, not sure.

(Full story will be posted here; it's on going)

“Just this one time, please. Think about it. No, don't think. Just rock an outfit, it will be lit and honestly I'm there for Shakes.”

Shakes is her situationship thing that I don't know where it's going. They are on and off.

“Just one afternoon, please?”

“Sure.” Nothing would happen in one afternoon right? I'm just doing this for her.

—-

We took a taxi to the Soweto grounds, and immediately, the air shifted. It was packed. Massive speakers mounted on nearby vans. Kwesta, Ngud song blasting. There were marshals or bouncers near where Gusheshe cars were. One car was spinning, a red Gusheshe.

Crazy how it moves. My adrenaline levels spiked just by seeing and hearing the way it moves.

So, here I was, standing on the edge of the makeshift arena, feeling like a deer caught in headlights.

“Look, there he is,” Sibongile shouted over the music, nudging my arm. She pointed toward the red Gusheshe car that was spinning.

Sibongile basically laid out who is who based on their cars. The girl knows her thing. She was disappointed that Shakes wasn't here yet.

“And that's Zuko. He's THE best spinner we've got.” Referring to the red car

His car looks cool, it also has neon. Why am I impressed? It's just a car, what's wrong with me? Argh.

The car stopped and he came out of the car. God… he looks…

“Don’t even look too long, girl. He’s a heartbreaker. His body count could probably start a small country on some island or something” she laughed.

Great. Obviously the popular spinner is going to be a heartbreaker.

I looked, despite my better judgment. He was leaning against the driver’s side door, wiping grease from his hands with a rag. He had a white bucket hat on and wore a fitted black t-shirt that clung to his broad shoulders and khaki pants, more so pantsula trousers, with all star takkies.

I stared at him as his eyes darted around, God he's beautiful, our eyes locked, I quickly looked away. I felt a heat rush to my cheeks and I immediately looked down at my sneakers.

“He’s bad news,” Sibongile warned, her eyes scanning the crowd. “Seriously, Ompie. Stay away from guys like that. From spinners even.”

Suddenly, the music stopped for a bit.

The crowd roared as Zuko slid into the driver’s seat. The engine growled. He surged forward, tires screaming, carving a perfect circle in the dirt. Smoke billowed up, thick and grey, swallowing the light. He spun with a reckless grace, the Gusheshe dancing on the edge of control. It was dangerous and mesmerizing.

People cheered on and on.

While the car was still rotating, he pushed the door open, whoahhhhhh, what? One hand on the steering wheel, the other waving dismissively at the screaming crowd. He then came out of the car, while it was still spinning, that caused another uproar, and they got on it,

While it's spinning then stepping on it before he got in on the sunroof and continued driving.

People were losing their minds, chanting his name. Zuks!!

Another car, a bright yellow one, drifted into the circle, clearly trying to bait him. The driver, a guy in a flashy jacket, revved his engine, trying to outshine the smoke. Zuko just tightened his spin, his car’s rear bumper inches from the crowd, the smell of burnt rubber choking us.

As the cars finally screeched to a halt, the crowd surged forward to them. I stepped back, wanting to be anywhere but here.

“Babe!” A voice called out.

I watched as Shakes, vaulted from his car, looked like he's just arrived, he marched straight toward us. He grabbed Sibongile by the waist and planted a kiss on her that made me look at the ground in embarrassment. Shit, they don't care about anyone but them.

“Hey, hey!” Sibongile laughed, pulling away. “Keep it PG, Shakes. There’s a child in the vicinity.” She gestured toward me.

Shakes chuckled. “Ah, Omphile, is it?”

I nodded. “Sorry for that. I forgot we have a cocomelon around here.”

The way they are so in love you'd swear I am a devil for advising her to leave him a thousand times coz of their on and offs. He can be idiotic sometimes.

I adjusted my hoodie, feeling small. “I’m nineteen, Shakes. I know how kissing works. I’m not a child.”

“Sure, sure,” he teased, not buying it. “Listen, there’s a house party later tonight at the lounge. You two are coming, right? It’s going to be wild.”

Before I could decline. Zuko had walked over, his stride slow, he had brackets. I swear, his doing that on purpose. He nodded at Shakes then his eyes drifted to me, I held my breathe, sheeh, he smells like a manly plus a burnt tire.

“Tough race today,” Shakes said, slapping Zuko on the shoulder.

“Tough,” he sighed.

He looked at Sibongile, a small, knowing smile on his lips. “Sips. Looking good. My brother's wife.”

Sibongile rolled her eyes while smiling. “Thanks, “brothers wife wasn't really necessary.” “

Then, his gaze slid back to me. My breath hitched. He walked a step closer, closing the distance until I could smell the faint scent of manly cologne and burnt tire. He held out a hand for a handshake.

“Zuko Msingo,” he said, his voice deep and smooth. “THEE local Xhosa Dyan, popular spinner yabo la way.” I almost laughed at how arrogant he sounded.

I hesitated as I reached out to shake his hand. His skin was warm and rough against my palm. “I—I’m Omphile.”

“Omphile,” he repeated, testing the name. He didn’t let go of my hand. “I haven’t seen you around here before. You new to the hood? ”

“I’ve lived here all my life,” I whispered, pulling my hand away. “I just… I stay home. I’m a student.”

He smiled, oh why does he have to look so good?

“A home buddy? Good girl.” He leaned in, his eyes darting to my face, scanning me. “ Then if that's the case. Don’t hang around the wrong people. Stay a good girl, for me.”

I felt my face heat up again. “For him?” What does that mean?

“I think I know how to make smart choices,” I defended.

Shakes laughed, stepping between us. “Don’t let him lie to you. This guy is trouble. You’re better off finding yourself a church guy.”

Zuko just smirked, his eyes never leaving mine. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a crumpled hundred-rand note. He stepped forward, tucking it into my palm. My skin prickled where his fingers brushed my wrist.

As he turned and walked away, disappearing into the chaos of the crowd, I looked down at the note. I unfolded it slowly, my hands shaking.

Scrawled on the back of the bill, in bold, messy black ink, was a phone number.

“You my friend have a death wish on a piece of paper.” I knew what that meant. Don't mess with him.

I looked at the number, then at the back of Zuko’s head as he stood by his car, laughing with some other guys. Why is my heart beating so fast?

Please note this is an on going story; here's more : Here

A friend of mine recommended that I read Harry Potter, and it was lit. It was during the December holidays when I read and finished all books. The next year when schools opened I told her I read the whole series, she couldn't believe and I asked her for another book recommendation which was also fantasy, which was The Gone series by Micheal Grant. I've indulge myself in more fantasy/ sci-fi books and for some reason I haven't come across books written by South African authors on this genre.

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While I was scrolling on tik tok the other day, I stubbled across a post from ....that had recommendations/ books of all genres by South African authors and here are they.

If you loved a Court of thorns,

you'll love

Julhuan by Anoshi saretzki

Book overview

“Ever since Zanna can remember, she's been tormented by a recurring nightmare which has only served to complicate her life. Determined to escape its clutches, she embarks on a multi day hike into the expanse of the Drakensberg mountains, accompanied by her best friend, Seb.

Their trek through the increasingly treacherous terrain unveils a series of peculiar phenomena. Little do they know that these strange occurrences will ultimately lead them to the Julhuasi, an ancient, hidden tribe, blessed with magical powers and protected by dragons who have coexisted with them in Julhuan for millennia.

As Zanna delves deeper into this new world, she discovers that her true identity is far more extraordinary than she could have ever imagined. Her nightmares, previously deemed simply as bad dreams, now hold very real implications for her and the Julhuasi. As a sworn enemy. relentless in her pursuit, draws nearer, Zanna must tap into her inner strength and self-belief. Only then will she be able to face the impending battle that has shadowed her existence since her birth.”

(From synopsis on Amazon, reference)

Lumina by Anoshi saretzki

Book overview

When Zanna sets off with her fellow warriors on a mission to rescue a captive tribe from the most unlikely of places, she finds herself on a path that turns her world upside down. She soon discovers a fate binding her to ancient gods, prehistoric Earth, the birth of civilisation—and dragons.

Destiny is a heavy burden, and Zanna must discern who to trust and what to believe. Most importantly, she must master herself to handle all that her journey has in store. Will she brave the challenge, or succumb to its burdens?

If you loved Percy Jackson series then you should read

A prophecy of flowers and lightening written by Michael Ferguson

Book overview

In a world of gods and monsters, a prophecy is made, a war is waged, and a legend is born. Cursed from birth by the gods with the power of foresight, Cadence is ostracised. Hated by his father, berated by his brothers, and shunned by his community, Cadence leads a lonely existence.

Destinies collide when Cadence meets Arlo, the demigod prince of the Luciferian Empire, and the two have no idea how deeply connected they really are by the Great Cosmic Web of the Fates. A friendship quickly blooms into something more as the two youths navigate the worlds of duty and their emotions together.

The Empire of Luciferian is ruled over by the iron fist of the power-hungry Emperor Abydos, and by his side is Arsinoe, mysterious sorceress and Empress of Luciferian. In his never-ending quest to dominate, he awakens a dark force that will bring famine, war, and ultimate devastation to the Empire.

Arlo and Cadence have an integral role to play in the war to come, one in which their combined demise has been prophesied. Can Cadence and Arlo break the web the Fates have woven for them, or will they become entangled by it?

“I would rather die at your side than watch the world burn from inside your embrace.”

The Empire of Luciferian is ruled over by the iron fist of the power-hungry Emperor Abydos, and by his side is Arsinoe, mysterious sorceress and Empress of Luciferian. In his never-ending quest to dominate, he awakens a dark force that will bring famine, war, and ultimate devastation to the Empire.

Arlo and Cadence have an integral role to play in the war to come, one in which their combined demise has been prophesied. Can Cadence and Arlo break the web the Fates have woven for them, or will they become entangled by it?

Bridgeton with a sprinkle of ...

Tempest tea leaves by Rachel Morgan

Book overview

Iris Starspun has failed spectacularly at all three, and the Bloom Season has barely begun.

Born half-human, half-fae, and scandalously magicless, Iris has long accepted her place at the bottom of glittering fae society.

But when her magical gift finally manifests—a frivolous knack for folding paper into enchanted shapes—her parents are determined she use it to snare a wealthy husband and save her family from ruin. Iris, however, would sooner fold herself into a paper bird and fly far away.

Enter Lord Brooding.

Ahem, that is, Lord Jasvian Rowanwood.

Heir to the Isles' most powerful fae family, and the very definition of insufferably serious, he has no patience for sharp-tongued debutantes with parlor-trick magic.

Unfortunately for him, his formidable grandmother does.

When Iris is chosen as apprentice at the prestigious Charmed Leaf Tea House, she and Jasvian are forced into dangerously close quarters. Sparks fly, tempers flare—and Iris soon finds herself alarmingly close to enjoyingtheir heated interactions.

But the opinionated Lord Rowanwood would never fall for someone with a diluted bloodline and magic as useless as hers.

Would he?

Deals & Dream spells by Rachel Morgan

Book overview

When notorious rivals Evryn Rowanwood and Mariselle Brightcrest accidentally bind themselves to a decades-old enchanted contract laying out the restoration of the failed magical attraction known as Dreamland, they must transform from bitter enemies to reluctant allies, staging the Season's most shocking romance while secretly working together to resurrect the magical legacy that once tore their families apart.

Love and letter charms by Rachel Morgan

Book overview

When shy Aurelise Rowanwood is swept into the glittering Bloom Season as one of the fae ladies from whom the charming and flirtatious Prince Ryden must choose a bride, she vows to stay on the sidelines and go unnoticed, dreaming instead of a safe, steady companion and a quiet life filled with her beloved music.

But when Ryden discovers that Aurelise is the very same intriguing young woman he’s been secretly exchanging enchanted letters with for the past year, he invents a daring game to draw her out from behind her careful walls and win her heart.

Caught between the comfort of her quiet dreams and the intensity of feelings she has spent her life avoiding, Aurelise is terrified of surrendering her heart—yet finds herself falling for both the mysterious writer of her letters and the unsuitable, infuriatingly flirtatious prince.

The first king by Shameez Patel

Book overview

Lucas returns to the Selene realm only to find its been set alight. The king has declared war and is searching for them, especially his prized Healer who has escaped with his traitorous son.

But Cassia and Lochlan are still trapped in Vineas and Lucas has no way of getting to them. Armed with something as easily changed as a vision of the future, Lucas has to place his faith in the people around him and call out the uncontrollable First magic lurking inside him.

He will be the one to kill the king. He will end this. Now.

Eternal shadow by Shameez Patel

Book overview

After returning to her realm, Cassia continues to use the magic she’d discovered in Selene. Little did she know, that wasn’t allowed and because of it, she’s abducted by the king. Luckily, Prince Lochlan is still living in the castle pretending to be under the king’s command. After Lochlan frees Cassia, they all need to flee Selene to escape the king and find allies elsewhere.

But in this new realm, all the inhabitants are afraid of the dark where a shadow is lurking, feeding upon them.

With nowhere else to go, they have to choose, either they face the king or this eternal shadow.

The last feather by Shameez Patel

Book overview

Twenty-two-year-old Cassia's sister is dying, and she doesn't know why. Cassia wakes up in another realm to find her missing best friend, Lucas, who knows how to save her sister.

Lucas is part of a community of Reborns, people who were born on earth and after death, were reborn in this realm with magical abilities. The original beings of the realm, the Firsts, rule over them.

To keep the Reborn numbers manageable, the king of the Firsts releases a curse to cull them. Cassia needs to break the curse before her time runs out and she is trapped there forever.

Link to the books

Julhuan by Anoshi saretzki

Lumina by Anoshi saretzki

A prophecy of flowers and lightening written by Michael Ferguson

Tempest tea leaves by Rachel Morgan

Deals & Dream spells by Rachel Morgan

Love and letter charms by Rachel Morgan

The first king by Shameez Patel

Eternal shadow by Shameez Patel

The last feather by Shameez Patel

Ungeno

- she married her sisters husband

To read the novel: Read here

Darkest obsession

A cartel leader falls for a detective and he's determined to make her his woman.

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The vow

It's an arranged marriage

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Falling for the off limits professor-

Professor x student trope

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Zwelibanzi The taxi driver: Taxi driver romance

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All of these books are written by Matshidiso Bella who has a Pen name called Bella R. M.

According to Google reads, Bella focuses on black romance, Bella's tales celebrate the beauty and diversity of African culture, taking readers on a journey of desire, magic, and adventure.

Her debut novel was The swan which was pulled back from publishing and republished as This kind of love.

Office hours

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Book overview

In the high-stakes world of corporate power, a dangerous spark ignites between Kago, a brilliant plus-size business analyst, and Lehakwe, her enigmatic CEO.

As they collaborate on a major project, their chemistry erupts into a passionate encounter, but Kago’s fear of rejection and Lehakwe’s guarded heart threaten to ruin it all.

Caught between corporate bullies, self-doubt, and buried trauma, they must decide:

Will their connection survive the chaos or become another casualty of the boardroom?

This kind of love

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Book overview

When Lesedi acknowledges that she's sitting on hot coals in her marriage, she seeks solace in the hands of the broke but very sexy,handsome,ambitious and musically talented Katlego who cares about her beyond the scars that decks her body. The inevitable happens and her husband swears to teach her a lesson for throwing all that he's done for her in his face.

In a tangle of love and war,you win some and you lose some but others stand to lose it all... Who will come out on top in this tale of love?

This kind of love promises to give you drama, romance, angst, pleasure, tears, heartbreak and a happy ending...

Be mine Asante

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Book overview

Under the vibrant lights of a bustling university, where friendships blossom and heartbreaks intertwine, nineteen-year-old Asante stands at a critical crossroads. She’s navigating the trials of first-year life while grappling with a shocking secret, a suspected pregnancy that casts a long shadow from her past. In the middle of this turmoil, she meets Remy Seriti, charming, grounded, and offering a lifeline just when she needs it most.

As they weather the highs and lows of campus life, the invisible thread between them only tightens, woven through stolen glances, shared laughter, and quiet moments of understanding. But with every heartbeat pulling them closer, fear lingers. Losing Remy, her closest companion, her chosen family, feels unthinkable. Can their connection survive unspoken feelings and the weight of old wounds?

Asante rises as a bold event planner while Remy carves out his place in the family winery, yet their paths keep circling back to each other. With dreams unfolding and past pain still healing, they must decide: is friendship enough or is love worth the risk?

Clause and hearts

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Book overview

After yet another unfair dismissal at work, Oratilwe is summoned back home only to discover her family has chosen her future. Instead of selling their struggling farm, they’ve struck a deal: she will marry into the powerful Maseko farming dynasty. With a trail of failed relationships behind her, Oratilwe convinces herself that maybe an arranged marriage is exactly what she needs, as long as her husband is easy on the eyes.

But nothing about this union is simple.

Maru Maseko never imagined being dragged into such a circus. Bound by family duty and the loyalty expected of a son, he finds himself tied to a woman who stirs feelings he has no business entertaining. To want her is to betray his bloodline, but to resist her could cost him everything.

A marriage bound by clauses and family ambition, threatened by jealousy, sabotage, and a husband at war with his own heart, 𝘾𝙡𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚 & 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙨 is a tale of arranged marriage, family rivalries, sizzling desire, and a love constantly put to the test.

Choose us Azania

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Book overview

Navigating life with dormant wishes, Azania Tema lives vicariously through others, her colleagues turned friends, her clients, and even strangers on social media, all because of a solemn promise she made to her mother at eighteen.

One day, after a rough shift in the world of beauty and makeup, she accidentally dials the wrong number. To her surprise, a tempting, spellbinding voice answers, one that not only fills her ears but awakens long-suppressed desires, pulling Azania into late-night conversations that begin to color her world with possibility. Now, at twenty-four, staying loyal to that long-ago promise becomes increasingly difficult.

The life she always dreamed of is suddenly within reach, offered on a silver platter by the enigmatic Lemy Seriti. But the vow she made stands in the way of the happiness she craves.

Will she follow her heart, or honor her promise and continue living an unfulfilled life?

A royal experience

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Book overview

Have you ever wondered of how life would be after high school? The freedom of being away from parents, fantasizing about the lectures, dressing up for school, meeting new people and hopefully falling in love with that perfect guy you'd start a family with?

Well so did Retang, leaving high school was a high for her. She couldn't wait to go to college and study what she loved but most importantly meet her "College sweetheart." High school wasn't so kind to award her the novel-like romance so she hoped college would come bearing gifts.

Arriving in the new city, at the new school, she meets the school's soccer royalty, he is hot, he is confident, maybe a little cocky and she wants to sink her claws in him.

With all the warning bells ringing around her about Royal, the soccer star, she's turned deaf to them because he is who she wants... But is he the one? Is he really her "college sweetheart?" or she's blinded by her obsession with the novel-like romance?

This is a college experience story about a first year student with her group of friends navigating the college life basking in their "freedom"...

Darkest obsession -A cartel leader falls for a detective and he's determined to make her his

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I found peace in him - A young man is forced to take a wife because he is a pastors wife and he wants to marry one woman. The woman he's always had an eye on.

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The safe house - A doctor is kidnapped to help an injured man, they use her home as their safe house after being ambushed which led to the the man getting shot this injured.

Reade here: Click here

Beyond the help- A girl is hired clean but what happens when she falls for

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Fatal obsession - Qophelo and Hlamisa love each other but one of them loves too much to let go.

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Hlomu series

Hlomu The Wife is essentially a love story that takes its cues from life in a South African township. A young woman named Mahlomu meets Mqhele Zulu and they fall in love. Even though aspects of Mqhele's personality and past make her uncomfortable, Hlomu is happy. Their love is strong and they stand by each other through good and bad. But Mqhele and his seven brothers have a dark and tumultuous past that involves a dead warlord father, mob justice, and lots of unaccounted-for money. The Zulu brothers are rich, handsome, powerful and dangerous. They eventually become one of the wealthiest and most powerful families in Johannesburg - but the inherent danger remains.

You can read the book Here

Thandolwethu Ndlovu is your witty, chubby, and simple girl with a simple life. She has been working in retail at least for six months. When exactly six months later on her way to work, she meets a very handsome man in a taxi, Sibusiso, he is the Taxi Driver and he plans to whoo her into his love no matter what it takes. But will he be able to win her heart?

You can read this book here

The sequel to this book is The taxi ride

The following are reads from stardust literacy, fairy tale Ka mageza,

Mageza

Zwelibanzi the taxi driver

The taxi boss

Infinity miles per hour

The struggle

Imbali yakwa Khumalo

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