Faking it is so much better the second time around. Karris Five years ago, I was the reigning princess of pop. Now, I’m a former boy band member’s ex. I’ve been in this business a long time, so I’ve developed a tough skin. But negative press is hijacking my fundraising campaign to save my performing arts high school in Atlanta from being demolished. Desperate times call for desperate measures. So to spin the story my way, I’ve asked celebrity DJ Ward Hughes to reprise his role as my fake boyfriend—a stunt we pulled in high school. But this time, Ward has demands. Ward I started out spinning records in underground clubs in Atlanta and rose to fame playing sets at legendary clubs and festivals all over the world. Ten years in, and I’m tired of grueling, international tours and living out of hotel rooms. I’m ready to shift gears and become a songwriter and record producer. But A-list artists are reluctant to work with an unproven writer and producer. Working on Karris’s comeback album will give me the chance to showcase my pen game and production skills while helping her make music with a soulful vibe that she was truly meant to sing. But faking it as high school sweethearts who spin the block hits a little too close to home because nothing about our feelings has ever really been fake.

What happens when you meet the right person, but it’s never the right time? Nikki I went from gracing magazine covers as a member of a best-selling female group to being the subject of a blog article on “The Downfall of Nikki Hart.” After the flop of my solo album and a failed engagement, my anxiety is at an all-time high. I’m in desperate need of a fresh start, so I’m headed to London in hopes of kickstarting my solo career. But first, I’m returning home to Atlanta for my old high school’s jubilee celebration. I’m here to heal the rifts caused by my manipulative ex and to repair my friendship with Ced. Cedrick I’ve known Anika Hart was the woman for me since we met in high school. But family obligations and our individual music careers have always interfered. I was destroyed by her engagement to the one person in this industry I’d love to see take a long walk off a short pier. Now that she’s back, I’ll do whatever it takes to convince her to stay. Nikki believes the road to her solo career runs through London’s music scene. But I’m an award-winning record producer and co-owner of a brand-new boutique record label. If she’ll give me twelve weeks, I’ll prove we’re the perfect match in love and music. Content Notes NEVER THE RIGHT TIME deals with a variety of issues that may be difficult for some readers. Please note that this story deals with the following: Mental health concerns Anxiety Grief Loss of a parent (off page) Terminal illness mentioned Psychological abuse discussed Discussion about childbearing past 35 Each of these topics is dealt with in an informed and respectful manner. However, some readers may prefer not to read a romance that deals with such heavy, real-life issues.