Book of the Day: Glasses & Spice

Book of the Day: Glasses & Spice

Author: Nneka Faith Abanum

Book Reviewer: Stephanie Nwakaegho

Genre: Contemporary Romance | Corporate Romance

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.2/5)

In the landscape of contemporary African romance, the “contract relationship” trope remains a beloved staple. However, execution is everything. Nneka Faith Abanum’s Glasses & Spice takes this familiar blueprint (an enigmatic executive, a sharp protagonist, and a binding agreement) and infuses it with warmth, relatable character motivations, and distinct local flavor. At its core, the novel asks whether emotional intimacy can be methodically contracted, or if love inevitably breaks the boundaries we attempt to set around it.

The narrative centers on an unexpected alliance between a poised, ambitious heroine and a commanding corporate executive. Driven by necessity and overlapping goals, the pair agree to a structured, contract-bound arrangement designed to satisfy external pressures without the complications of real emotional entanglement.

However, the rigid boundaries of their deal quickly begin to fray. What starts as a series of calculated public appearances and artificial gestures inevitably gives way to genuine vulnerability. As the line between performance and reality blurs, both characters are forced to navigate the terrifying prospect of admitting that the contract is no longer the only thing keeping them together.

Where Glasses & Spice shines brightest is in its characterization. Abanum avoids rendering her female lead as a passive participant in a wealthy man’s world; instead, she is intellectual, self-aware, and grounded. Her sharp wit balances the male lead’s intense, controlled demeanor, creating a playful dynamic that drives the story forward.

The romance relies heavily on the “forced proximity” and “fake dating” mechanics, but the emotional progression feels earned rather than forced. The dialogue between the leads is snappy, filled with double entendres and subtle shifts in power that keep the romantic tension high throughout the middle act.

Abanum writes with a light, engaging prose style that prioritizes readability and emotional resonance. The pacing is swift, making it an effortlessly bingeable read. The setting provides a rich backdrop, grounding the glossy corporate elements in recognizable cultural contexts and everyday social dynamics.

From a critical standpoint, the novel does occasionally lean into familiar genre conventions, and seasoned romance readers will likely anticipate the primary conflict and resolution well before they arrive. Additionally, certain secondary subplots could benefit from deeper exploration to match the emotional weight of the central love story. Nevertheless, these minor pacing choices do not detract from the overall charm and satisfaction of the narrative.

Glasses & Spice is a charming, well-crafted romance that delivers exactly what it promises: high-stakes chemistry, witty banter, and a satisfying arc from business to passion. Nneka Faith Abanum proves her flair for contemporary storytelling, offering readers a warm escape that celebrates the unexpected ways love can rewrite our plans.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely. Perfect for fans of corporate romance tropes looking for a fresh, engaging, and uplifting read for the weekend.