REVIEW: Sparks Fly by Zakiya N. Jamal

Sparks Fly by Zakiya N. Jamal: Stella Renee Johnson goes to a sex club with one simple goal: finally lose her virginity and move on with her life. Instead, she has a near-miss with a sexy stranger, panics, and leaves—only to discover the very next day that the man she can’t stop thinking about is now deeply entangled in her professional life. Because Max Williams isn’t just hot… he’s the creator of the AI technology threatening her job.

What starts as an awkward, electric reunion quickly turns into something much messier. Stella and Max agree to keep things professional, but attraction doesn’t care about boundaries—especially when late-night conversations reveal shared identities, ambitions, and vulnerabilities. The tension between them simmers as work and desire collide, forcing both of them to decide what they’re willing to risk for something real.

I enjoyed SPARKS FLY for how it balances humor, smart banter, and emotional depth. The romance itself is tender and charged at the same time. It’s not just about physical attraction—it’s about being seen, respected, and challenged. Watching Stella step into her own desires while navigating power dynamics, workplace tension, and self-discovery gives this story a thoughtful edge beneath the heat.

Themes

• Career vs. personal life
• Identity & self-discovery
• Desire vs. boundaries
• Communication & trust

Tropes

• Workplace romance
• Late-bloomer journey
• Instant chemistry
• Tech + ethics tension
•  Witty banter & smart romance

SPARKS FLY is flirty, fun, and thoughtful — the kind of romance that makes you laugh, blush, and root for the couple all at once. If you love romances where the heat is matched by heart — and where growth is just as important as chemistry — this one’s worth picking up.

Book Info:

Publication: Published: January 1st, 2026 | Berkley |

A late bloomer thought a visit to a sex club might jump start her love life, but instead makes an instant connection that turns her whole world upside down, in this adult debut from author Zakiya N. Jamal.

When Stella Renee Johnson’s roommate invites her to a sex club party but bails at the last minute, Stella decides to use the opportunity to finally cash in her V-card. But just when things are heating up between Stella and a sexy stranger, they realize they don’t have protection and Stella, taking it as a sign this wasn’t meant to be, flees.

Frustrated in more ways than one, Stella is shocked to learn that the digital media website where she works is partnering with an AI company. She’s even more shocked when the alluring man from the previous night walks in. Max Williams is the CEO’s brother and the creator of the AI program now threatening her job.

Despite the conflict of interest, Stella and Max can’t resist their magnetic attraction toward each other, and agree to keep their personal lives separate from what’s happening at work. But the more similarities they discover at home—both Black, book smart, and bisexual—the more they butt heads at work. Stella and Max must decide whether to think with their heads and walk away from their budding relationship, or follow their hearts and take a chance on love, no matter the cost.