We’re officially stepping into our first book club read of 2026, and baby… it’s giving tender, funny, messy-in-the-most-human-way, and full of second chances.
For February, we’re reading:
Love After Love by Ingrid Persaud
A warm, wise, emotionally rich story about family, forgiveness, and what it means to choose love again—romantic or otherwise. It’s the kind of book that reminds you people can be complicated and still worthy.
If you love stories that feel like real life, where characters make you laugh one minute and clutch your chest the next, this one is for you.
Why this book?
Because we’re starting the year with something that feels like a soft landing and a deep breath at the same time.
Love After Love explores:
- family ties (the kind you’re born into and the kind you build)
- starting over when you thought you missed your moment
- love in many forms—romantic, platonic, chosen, complicated
- the brave truth that healing doesn’t always look pretty, but it’s still holy work
It’s tender, yes—but it’s also honest. And TBGR doesn’t do surface-level.
A quick note on content
Please read with care. This book may include themes related to: abuse, attempted suicide, self-harm, homophobia, murder, and violence.
Take your time with it. Pause when you need to. Tap out of certain sections if you have to. You’re allowed to protect your peace and stay in community.
Two ways to join TBGR this year
Because we’re making space for real life. Choose what fits your season.
1) In-Person (Toronto East)
📍 Friday, February 27th at 7:30 PM Eastern
Toronto East vibes: cozy, intimate, and the kind of room where you can exhale because everybody gets it. If you’d like to join the online session please reach out to Lalaa via email thisblackgirlreadsca@gmail.com
2) Virtual (Online)
💻Thursday, February 26th at 7:00 PM Eastern
Come as you are, bonnet, tea, couch corner, soft life. Same TBGR energy, just through a screen.
The vibe
Think: bookish baddie meets healing circle. We’re here to talk about the story, yes—but also the feelings beneath it.
Expect:
- real conversation (no “right answers” required)
- laughter, a few “mmm” moments, and probably a gentle drag or two for the characters 😭
- reflections on love, family, forgiveness, and what it means to begin again
Bring:
- your book (tabs encouraged)
- a warm drink
- a pen if you’re a note-taker or journal girly
- your full self—soft, complicated, brilliant
How to get ready
- Start reading when you can (no pressure to finish perfectly—life is lifing).
- As you read, notice the moments that made you:
- laugh out loud
- get quiet
- feel seen
- feel triggered (and what support you might need)
A few TBGR-style discussion questions to sit with
- Where do you see love showing up beyond romance in this story?
- What does “starting over” look like in adulthood—and what makes it hard?
- How does family show love in imperfect ways?
- Which character did you feel most protective of… and why?
- What line, scene, or moment stayed with you after you closed the book?
Come read with us 💛
If you’ve been craving a reading space that feels like community (not performance), this is it.
February is our first gathering of the year, and I would love to have you in the circle—online or in Toronto East.
Drop a 🖤 in the comments if you’re joining, and tell me: what do you hope this book gives you right now?
