Sherelle Green's Smoke After Hours is a tantalizing exploration of love, friendship, and the intoxicating allure of desire, set against the backdrop of a burgeoning cannabis delivery business. This novel is a part of the Four20 Bae series, a multi-author collection that delves into the lives of couples who find themselves intertwined in both business and pleasure. Green's contribution to this series stands out with its unique blend of romance and suspense, making it a compelling read for fans of contemporary romance with a twist.

The story centers around Bentley Blackwood and Volley Paul, two dynamic characters whose chemistry is palpable from the very first page. As the masterminds behind a rapidly growing cannabis delivery service, Bentley and Volley are not just business partners but also best friends and roommates. Their relationship is a delicate dance of flirtation and restraint, with each character harboring unspoken desires that simmer beneath the surface. Green skillfully captures the tension between them, creating a sense of anticipation that keeps readers engaged.

One of the novel's strengths is its character development. Bentley is portrayed as a fiery and alluring woman, whose spirit and determination are matched only by her vulnerability. Her character is multi-dimensional, and readers will find themselves rooting for her as she navigates the complexities of her feelings for Volley. On the other hand, Volley is depicted as a protective and charismatic figure, whose internal struggle between maintaining their friendship and pursuing a romantic relationship adds depth to his character. The interplay between Bentley and Volley is both captivating and relatable, as they grapple with the risks and rewards of crossing the line from friendship to romance.

Green's writing is both evocative and engaging, with a narrative style that draws readers into the world of Bentley and Volley. The author effectively uses dialogue to convey the chemistry between the characters, with witty banter and lingering glances that heighten the romantic tension. The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, with moments of introspection interspersed with scenes of passion and intrigue. This balance ensures that the story remains dynamic and engaging, with each chapter building upon the last to create a satisfying narrative arc.

The theme of desire is central to Smoke After Hours, and Green explores this theme with nuance and sensitivity. The novel delves into the complexities of human relationships, examining how desire can both unite and divide individuals. The characters' journey is one of self-discovery, as they confront their own fears and insecurities in the pursuit of love. This exploration of desire is complemented by the novel's setting, with the world of cannabis delivery serving as a metaphor for the highs and lows of romantic relationships.

In addition to its exploration of desire, the novel also touches on themes of trust and loyalty. Bentley and Volley's relationship is built on a foundation of trust, and their journey is a testament to the strength of their bond. As they navigate the challenges of their business and personal lives, they must rely on each other in ways they never anticipated. This theme of loyalty is particularly resonant in the context of the Four20 Bae series, which celebrates the power of partnership and collaboration.

Comparatively, Smoke After Hours shares thematic similarities with other contemporary romance novels, such as Christina Lauren's Beautiful Bastard series and Sally Thorne's The Hating Game. Like these works, Green's novel explores the tension between professional and personal relationships, with characters who must navigate the complexities of love in the workplace. However, Green's unique setting and focus on the cannabis industry add a fresh perspective to the genre, making Smoke After Hours a standout addition to the romance canon.

Overall, Smoke After Hours is a captivating and well-crafted novel that will appeal to fans of contemporary romance and readers seeking a story that combines passion, intrigue, and emotional depth. Sherelle Green has crafted a tale that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters who are as relatable as they are compelling. Whether you're a longtime fan of the Four20 Bae series or new to Green's work, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression.

In conclusion, Smoke After Hours is a testament to Sherelle Green's talent as a storyteller, offering a rich and rewarding reading experience that will resonate with audiences long after the final page is turned. The novel's exploration of desire, friendship, and the complexities of love make it a must-read for anyone seeking a romance that is both steamy and substantive.