If you know me, you know it’s no secret: I am an Alexandria House STAN!
Like, no shame, all caps, full chest stan.
When I launched Beauty, Brains, and Books Book Club, her book Goal was one of the first books I chose. And whenever someone asks me where to start with contemporary romance, whether they’re new to the genre or finding their way back, I always say, “Start with Alexandria House.”
Why?
Because in her books, Black women are being loved loudly and unapologetically.
The representation is everything:
- Plus-sized women
- Women living with mental health challenges
- Women who aren’t “traditional” beauty queens but are strangely, uniquely, heartbreakingly beautiful
And in her world, everybody gets love. Every sister, every friend, every brother, cousin, and auntie, you name it. Nobody is left out.
This weekend at the House Party Experience, I saw that same love leap off the page and take shape in real life.
A Space Like No Other
The space Alexandria curated was unmatched.
The laughter.
The joy.
The genuine hugs.
We CUT UP in the best way.
I laughed with women I had just met and built bonds that feel like they’ll last a lifetime.
As a creative, I know how easily deadlines, expectations, and burnout can drain you. That weekend was a reminder: you have to fill your cup. And y’all, this event poured into me.
I left feeling restored.
Thank you, Alexandria House, and the entire House Party Experience team, for such a beautiful, vibrant tribute to Black love.
Speaking of Black Love…
Have you met Aliza and Kofi yet?
If not, what are you waiting for? Their story, Three Months in Accra, is soft, messy, and magical in all the ways love can be.
And because vibes matter, I made you something:
🎶 Listen to the Three Months in Accra Playlist on Apple Music
It’s the perfect soundtrack while you read.
Let’s Stay Connected
- Instagram: @lbgainestheauthor ✨
- TikTok: @lbgainestheauthor 🎥
- Facebook Reader Group: The Love Letters Lounge 💬
📚 Read Three Months In Accra
🛍️ Buy Your Physical Copies Directly From Me: lbgainestheauthor.com (When you buy from authors directly, you make a bigger impact and get additional goodies)
With love, always,
L.B. Gaines
