Bolu Babalola reveals the cover for Sweet Heat, the hotly anticipated sequel to Honey & Spice

Sizzling Summer Ahead

Summer is on track to become even more intense, as Bolu Babalola makes her long-awaited return with a follow-up to her 2022 bestseller and Reese’s Book Club selection, _Honey & Spice_. Previously titled _Sun Under Skin_, this sequel now bears the name _Sweet Heat_ and is slated for release on Sept. 2—an earlier date than the originally planned 2024 publication. Entertainment Weekly exclusively unveiled the book’s cover, revealing both a milestone for Babalola’s fans and the promise of more romantic intrigue. Babalola’s latest work aims to captivate readers eager to dive deeper into the universe she created in her widely praised debut novel.

The newly revealed cover features a radiant, sun-drenched cityscape juxtaposed with the silhouette of a nude woman standing in a bedroom. “I am so so pleased and proud of this cover,” Bolu Babalola enthuses to EW. She credits Tishk Barzanji, describing him as a “phenomenal, evocative artist” whose skills brought her vision to life. According to Bolu Babalola, this artwork perfectly represents the atmosphere and emotional depth of Kiki Banjo’s journey throughout _Sweet Heat_, mirroring the novel’s intimate themes. Her passion for this visual design underscores how the new story is firmly rooted in both strong imagery and reflective storytelling.

Revisiting Kiki And Malakai

_Sweet Heat_ brings readers back into the lives of Kiki Banjo and Malakai Korede. In _Honey & Spice_, the pair initially clashed as adversaries but found themselves entangled in a fake dating ruse that ultimately shifted their feelings from enmity to genuine affection. Now, the sequel takes place years later, thrusting the two former college sweethearts into a second-chance love scenario. This time jump offers deeper insights into how each character has grown, while also shining a light on their unresolved chemistry. With this continuation, Babalola aims to expand the scope of her original love story, granting fans an even more nuanced perspective on the challenges and triumphs of romance.

Babalola has spoken of her appreciation for second-chance romances, considering them both vulnerable and hopeful in equal measure. “Second-chance romance is so uniquely beautiful because it takes a lot of courage and belief to go back to a place and hope it works out again,” she said. Emphasizing the emotional stakes involved in reviving old feelings, she adds that it requires immense trust in oneself and in love. The author believes this level of commitment embodies the essence of romance at its core, suggesting that few storylines capture the mix of wonder and uncertainty like reigniting old flames.

From the change in release plans to the vivid new cover art, every element of _Sweet Heat_ signals Bolu Babalola’s dedication to delivering a worthy successor to _Honey & Spice_. The updated title and accelerated publication date hint at the energy and urgency behind Kiki Banjo’s evolving journey. The promise of another clash-and-spark relationship dynamic—with the added twist of a second-chance theme—will likely draw returning fans and newcomers alike. As September approaches, anticipation continues to rise, ensuring that readers will flock to uncover how Kiki and Malakai rekindle their unique love.

Kiki’s Podcast Life

Kiki has stepped into the spotlight as the host of a popular podcast called The HeartBeat, where she tackles relationship troubles and dispenses practical life advice. However, her own situation turns worse when an important broadcasting opportunity fails to materialize without any warning, and her most recent romance falls through right before her eyes. In these professional and personal disappointments, Malakai—her ex-boyfriend who once broke her heart unexpectedly returns to her life. Meanwhile, the sudden appearance of the man is not something she really needs, nevertheless, she can’t help but tie her fate to that story.

While Kiki struggles to salvage her career, Malakai is ascending as a hotshot filmmaker on the verge of big opportunities. Determined to protect her shaky footing in the industry, Kiki realizes she must tread carefully around him. Before long, circumstances force them to spend the summer collaborating, compelling both to ignore the unmistakable sparks still flickering between them. Though each intends to appear utterly composed, feelings from the past stir just below the surface. Soon, the lingering tension begins to crack their polished façades, making them question whether taking a leap toward reconnection is worth the emotional stakes involved.

Second Chances Beckon

Author Bolu Babalola revealed that she separated Kiki and Malakai for very grounded reasons, then slowly brought them back together. The pair were relatively young when they first fell in love, and although their bond was genuine, time and maturity demanded they step away and grow into themselves. Babalola wanted the story to reflect the realities of life beyond college flings—figuring out identity, building self-reliance, and entering adulthood with renewed perspective. She aims to explore whether their spark endures after life’s challenges have reshaped who they’ve each become. Kiki and Malakai must now confront the possibility that distance and individual development could be exactly what they needed for a healthier reunion.

At its core, their journey hinges on whether the love they once shared can flourish again in the wake of heartbreak, added experience, and the lessons that came with growing up. Babalola underscores that such an intense reconciliation involves risk, courage, and vulnerability in equal measure. Will Kiki and Malakai’s mutual trust be enough for them to bring back what is already lost, or will the old wounds still be too deep to fill? When she moves her characters onto new tracks but also rekindles feelings that they once felt, the author creates an atmosphere of hope for a chance for redemption that might become the future that would redefine their relationships and would be the proof that love should be kept with honesty and patience if it is to live.