Confessions of an Alleged Good Girl: Winner of Best YA Fiction, Black Book Awards 2022

Such a feel-good, heartwarming read. Growing up as a black woman in a religious household, I could relate to a lot of what was written, but to be honest, no matter what your background, this book can be relatable.Luckily, in this day and age, it seems like parenting styles and methods are evolving and I'm very grateful for that. Infact, I saw the shift happening before my eyes as a teen and it made some of my experiences so much easier knowing my mum was trying to see things through a wider, more understanding lense. Though I can't imagine ever wanting to talk to my mum about my sex life and other personal topics, I know if I needed her she'd be there and would want to know what's going on in my life. Additionally, I know that as a society we are much more open and transparent about topics previously considered scandalous or taboo. Overall, I feel happy and hopeful that the young people of today will have a much easier time navigating themselves and their lives than a lot of the previous generations did thanks to the wealth of resources we now have at our disposal.Another theme explored that I loved was the humility of the parents in admitting their errors and expressing a desire to be better. I grew up hearing that I must do something "because [I] said so" or "I know better because im the mother", etc, and this book explores what can happen when youth are raised with these antiquated and rigid rules. Many relationships deteriorate because a lack of humility or willingness to see yourself on a level with your kids. My mum has expressed to me her regrets for the way she parented me throughout the earlier stages of my life and though we have all grown and evolved, sometimes, unfortunately, those chages take place too late. What I respect about my mother now is how fluid, intuitive and compassionate she's become and I aspire to be like that, only right from the beginning.This book has encouraged me to think about the type of parent i want to be, how i can encourage my children to be their best selves and who i need to be in order to foster a trusting, reciprocal relationship with them. Basically, i want my kids to know they can come to me for anything and to WANT to come to me for anything.I know parenthood will be a journey and Im happy for the examples and lived experience around me that will guide future generations in being better than the ones before.These are my main takeaways.In addition to this, the book has a super cute romance and a sisterhood you wish you were a part of.

I really recommend this book. Could not put it down. This is about a teenager going through puberty and her emotional roller coaster as a pastor's daughter and family and friends influences.

After reading “excuse me while I ugly cry” I was so excited to read your second debut and I was not disappointed. Right off the bat, this was great. Absolutely loved the ending and definitely shipped Reggie and Mo.This book explored so many important themes and Joya, you did this soooo well! A few of the themes explored: friendship, pressures of sex and fitting in, family relationships and how these are sometimes strained, religion, love (obviously!), and most importantly the exploration of our bodies as females and the “issues” that we sometimes face as women/young girls but may be scared to speak about it.Much like the first, this book had me crying happy tears.Can’t wait for a third book, no pressure… XD

I read this vecsuse I enjoyed the first book by the author. This book did not fail and was a lovely light hearted read. You again fall in love with the characters and the build up to each stage is excellently written. I would recommend to any book lover (teenage or adult!)

This was such a great book. I think it’s relatable and great for both YA and adults. I loved the characters and I can’t wait to read more by this author

Brilliant book, touches on great subjects and had great lessons within. Really enjoyed the authors writing style. Have purchased Excuse Me While I Ugly Cry - looking forward to reading it. Would highly recommend this book.

I honestly truly enjoyed the book. Thought it tackled many issues black Christian girls face growing up. It was heart warming and a real feel good book.

This was such a good read! I had already read Joya's "excuse me whilst I ugly cry" which was also such an amazing book. I love that it captured the sense of getting to know and love yourself, the journey of getting there and that it isn't necessary to need other's approval to achieve that... It was exactly what I needed to read right now. Can't wait for more stories from Joya :)