It’s a grand day when I get to review an Elizabeth Everett book. I was introduced to her through her second book in The Secret Scientists of London series, A Perfect Equation. Followers of the podcast will remember that book being highlighted quite a bit on my best of lists for 2022. This year, Everett has branched out to a parallel series that delves into the side characters from SSoL with The Love Remedy (The Damsels of Discovery Book 1).

A Little Bit of Plot

Lucinda (Lucy) Peterson has awful luck keeping her formulas for herself - first for her exclusive lozenges and now for the treatment of croup. Money keeps walking out the door. She knows the culprit, but she needs a private investigator, Jonathan Thorne, to prove it. He’s grump, she’s harried, but there seems to be a spark when they touch. All Thorne wants is to provide for his daughter, but he’s sworn off falling for beautiful women. What happens when his new, beautiful client poses a threat to his best intentions?

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

The Writing

Elizabeth Everett is a wonderful storyteller. She creates personality and whimsy in situations that a less deft hand would turn either too dire or overly slapstick. Through her writing, you get the sense that Everett respects her characters and their beliefs by how sharp-witted and warm they appear. She entices the reader to fall in love with this band of intelligent and brave women, which makes them a beacon for heroes with protective instincts and the wherewithal to get out of the way and let the ladies lead the charge. Thorne is a bit different, however, as while he’s not against a free-thinking and sexually progressive woman, he has more stringent views of how his daughter will be raised. Because of this, Thorne and Lucy are constantly at odds. Also, because this is a romance novel, you know that he comes around in the end. :wink: I think this first real interaction sums up their relationship.

“Of course, you can’t be sent to Newgate if you haven’t committed a crime,” Thorne continued.

For a moment there was no reaction, then Miss Peterson’s left ankle turned in a circle as if to say, Go on.

“If I were to stack the crates again beneath you, would you please climb down here so that we can speak face-to-face?” he asked.

Miss Peterson’s left foot hung motionless for a moment, then slowly moved side to side.

“Is it the speaking face-to-face you wish to decline?”

The foot moved side to side again.

“You’re well stuck, aren’t you?”

Miss Peterson’s left foot tapped the building in a grumpy manner, if a foot could be said to be grumpy.

Without a word from Lucy, we have pages of dialogue between a man and a foot, and it’s enjoyable, and the communication is crystal clear. I would also add that the depth at which both characters “get” the other is evident almost immediately. We will see many more examples of this throughout the novel, especially in the more intimate times. Thorne almost instinctively understands what Lucy needs, which makes him the perfect partner to her, not only in the bedroom but in most aspects of their lives together.

The Meat (The Con)

An epilogue, for certain. The ARC copy ends a bit abruptly. This truly isn’t a con, as I just wanted more from this couple. The slow build-up to the grand gesture leaves you wanting even more.

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

Women in STEM!

Everett promotes not only women in the sciences, but many of her heroines are also part of the working class. While some are in reduced circumstances, they never feel as though they need a husband or partner to thrive. While Lucy needs an extra set of hands to run the apothecary, this will then allow her more time to invent. In the novel, she works through the night, filling orders and experimenting, and her days are filled with customers and consultations. Thorne understands her need for freedom and is willing to provide stability so she can thrive in her field.

We also see the progression of Thorne’s thoughts about what he wants for his daughter, Sadie. At first, he’s only interested in her making a good match some day, however, when faced with that possibility, discovers what she wants for her life is much more important than his own beliefs.

Sadie grows throughout this novel. She learns to be inquisitive, confident, and self-assured. We are provided two different interactions between Sadie and other women: Mrs. Merkle, who feels she should be trained to enter into service (due to her status and upbringing). Then, the Petersons encourage her to be inquisitive, look beyond societal expectations, and foster her love of science. You can guess which Thorne ends up adopting.

It should also be said that this book is muy fuego. It’s a slow burn, so it takes a bit to get there, but we aren’t disappointed when we do. And lots of pregnancy prevention talk. Love it!

This can be read as a stand-alone. However, I think to get the full scope of Athena’s retreat and some of the characters referenced in this book, do check out the trilogy that precedes this. Elizabeth Everett will always be an insta one-click for me forever and ever..amen.

I fell in love with Dani McLean's Movie Magic Series last year, so I was so excited to receive an ARC of her newest release, Mortgage of Convenience. I’m happy to report this did not disappoint. 

A Little Bit of Plot

Bee Montgomery did a bad thing. Well, not so much ‘bad’, but one that puts her in a position that she’ll have to step into the spotlight for once. She’s moved home intending to submit her first manuscript under her own name - no more ghostwriting. Fate intervenes when her brother’s best friend (and long time crush), Sebastian, needs her help to achieve his dream: home ownership. Unbeknownst to Bee, Sebastian crushed on her for many years too. Sharing a space and co-owning a home will bring these two closer than ever. Will this be their forever-home or just a mortgage of convenience? 

The Top Bun (The Pro)

Bee’s Journey

Returning home and having this timeline for manuscript submission looming over her is the perfect jumping off point for Bee to discover self autonomy. McLean opens the novel with Bee partying with her friend Morgan, almost against her will. We soon discover that Bee lives for and has built herself up for others. She has no sense of self. I think most of us have that same journey at 28. You aren’t quite 30, yet you’re not 21 anymore. Suddenly, going out to clubs is not as fun as it used to be. Bee says at one point “I don’t want to drink all the time and talk shit about other people and lose my weekends to hangovers”. When she starts living for herself, she begins to gain self confidence and self worth. We see her procrastinating less as the novel goes on. The more assured she becomes, the less she has to distract herself from problems. 

The relationship she has with her brother also grows the more self confident she becomes. For those of us with older siblings with a wide age gap, it’s a difficult transition to being a little sibling to a friend. I think McLean does a wonderful job of presenting this transition in a very believable and entertaining way. I’m also assuming we are going to get Aiden’s book, and I hope soon, because I need it in my life. 

Some will say this is a slow burn, and I agree to a point. Sebastian is in 100% from jump street, but Bee needs to discover who she is first before she can love him back as an equal. Lucky for us, we get to see that growth.

The Meat (The Con)

There’s honestly not much I didn’t enjoy about this book. I may have gotten frustrated with Bee for her hesitancy at times, but I think that’s the whole point. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

This book is hot, y’all

Holy crap on a cracker, this book is hot. The sex scenes? They are plentiful. One stripping scene in particular..well, both actually, are hot as hell. I think I’ll just quote bits to prove my point: 

“Open your mouth.” With a grunt, he slows and stops, thumbing over the reddened head of his cock, collecting theprecum before raising it to my lips. “Taste me, beautiful” Keeping my gaze locked with his, I suck his thumb into my mouth and moan at the taste of salt and skin.

HOT.

Not convinced? Here’s another:

“Touch yourself,” I rasp. “I want to watch.” His hand is slick, covered in me. It’s easily the most erotic thing I’ve seen. I want to see him get himself off. Want to see both of us coating that gorgeous cock of his.

Not doing it for you (are you cold and dead inside?) last one: 

“You want this, don’t you?” I take myself in hand again, pulling my underwear down until it’s sitting tight under my balls and stroke myself, keeping an infuriatingly slow pace. I want - no, I need - this to last. “My cock. You need it.”

She moans loudly. “Yes.”

“Bee.”

She licks her lips, not moving. Waiting. “Yes?”

My voice is rough. “Come here.”

And everyone comes. End of story.

In summation, this is a gorgeous novel with really wonderful character study. Seb and Bee are both transitioning to different stages of their lives, and are lucky enough to find in each other the perfect yin to their yang. Also, check out McLean’s back catalog, you won’t be disappointed!

Folx, I have been so excited for this release for a while. I first read this short story in the Once Upon a Forbidden Desire anthology, and fell in love at first read. When I learned it was going to be re-released, I was ecstatic. The day is finally here; and I will now happily wax poetic about Colleen Cowley’s, Into the Bargain (A Clandestine Magic fairy tale).

A Little Bit of Plot

Pen Novak has exactly two weeks to either find employment or get married; otherwise her insufferable uncle will remove her from her family home. Word on the street is the local Omnimancer is in want of a wife and Pen is determined to be the one to fill that position. Why is it then that when she should be devising opportunities to woo the magician, do her thoughts stray so often to his unnamed assistant? When the omnimancer’s assistant offers her a bargain she can’t refuse, what will be asked of her in the process? 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

The Worldbuilding

What I absolutely adore about Colleen Cowley’s Clandestine Magic world is the timelessness in which it takes place. At times, I feel as though I’m living in the late 1800’s and the next, the 1940’s. That allows for the freedom to let your imagination conjure an amalgam of styles and technology - where trolley cars exist but not modern medicine. It’s almost as if half of the world progressed forward and the other did not. Mostly, the men advanced in every aspect of the modern world, when the women were prohibited. Until now. 

If you're familiar with the Clandestine Magic world, you'll understand that this is a story of just one of the many women who have begun to rise up. What I love about this book is that you have to consider the entire landscape of the world in order to grasp how Pen’s small act of dissent has enough firepower to light a few hundred fuses. 

The whole gaslamp fantasy genre provides an opportunity to rewrite our history as a modern day fable detailing how everyday acts of rebellion can turn the tide. In Cowley’s world, she plays upon the moral quandary of what happens when men are given unchecked authority, when, in fact, women ultimately hold the raw talent and power. 

By not immediately caving to the expectations of her uncle, Pen has defied what is to be considered a lady in this world. Oftentimes, her inner monologue attempts to divert rebellious thoughts by quoting from A Lady’s Guide to Unimpeachable Conduct. 

Well - that distinguishing oneself as an individual was the very last thing a lady should do. Those exact words weren’t in the Lady’s Guide, granted. The message lurked between the lines. ‘A lady defers to the preferences of others. A Lady does not make a spectacle of herself. A Lady can never go wrong holding her tongue; much better to be seen than heard’. 

Present day, these are the same guidelines we give to children to keep them obedient. So in other words, the men in Cowley’s world consider women to be intellectually and behaviorally on the same level as children. 

Who’s angry enough to go get a job in a career that has historically only employed men? Let’s do this!

The Meat (The Con)

I would have liked an epilogue for Pen and her partner, or a little a glimpse into their future. It’s okay that we don’t, as we have a whole trilogy detailing the rebellion at large. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

Subtle is Sexy

This book is steamy without the explicitness. As we are in an Edwardian culture set in  present day, deviating from social constraints is very sexy. We find sensuality in the curve of the set of lips, a gimlet colored gaze, and the possibility of temptation.

Her nameless companion leaned even closer, his next words in the timbre of a scandalous proposal: “They’re at the city park. We could sit across the lake and listen.”

Oh. Temptation shivered down her spine. 

“Do you want to, Miss Novak?” He’d stopped walking. His gaze pierced her.

Want - such a dangerous word.

The assistant is offering Pen choice and opportunity, so often denied to females at this time. He’s giving her the ability to act out her own wants, therefore, not live according to those of others. The fact that this is being offered by a man is even more scandalous. 

I think most will cite the “hand flex heard round the world” when describing 2005’s Pride and Prejudice, and why is that? The mere hint of sensuality or being overcome with emotion was unheard of in the Edwardian era. The same can be said for the world of this book. 

When we are privy to more of the ‘sexy times’, everything is hinted at, not fully shown. Does that lessen the impact these scenes have in relation to the overall steaminess of the book? Hell no. They often lead to moments of clarity for our main character, building her confidence. And as we all know, confidence is sexy. 

“I would very much like to undress you and learn more of your secrets. May i?”

“Yes,” she said, warmth rippling down her body from her flushing cheeks to the apex of her things. “Please.”

And oh, she was so glad she’d finally recognized the Lady’s Guide rules for what they were: a way to turn women into willing participants in their own subjugation. Because now she could revel in everything he made her feel without thinking there was anything wrong with her for feeling it. 

This entire interaction is something we’ve all experienced at some point, that euphoria from wanting. It’s a pure hit of dopamine. There’s nothing better than really wanting something and realizing that there’s nothing stopping you from getting it.

Overall, I would absolutely recommend not only this novella but Cowley's entire catalogue. Just last year, we reviewed her Opposite of Magic series for the podcast, and it was absolutely fantastic. I highly encourage you to delve into our Clandestine Magic trilogy, which must be read in order, with Subversive as the first in the series. If you are into female empowerment, revolution, and gaslamp fantasy, Cowley is the author for you! 

Each time I receive an ARC of an S.L. Prater novel I say “this is my new favorite”; and I’m not lying. So when I say, THIS IS MY NEW FAVORITE!, snap to attention folx. In this last installment of the Fae Trickster series by the sensational S.L. Prater, Dance with the Dragon Duke, focuses heavily on redemption and revenge while tying up loose ends of the 4 previous books. We have the opportunity to say farewell (for now) to some of our favorite characters and enjoy one last foray in the beautiful world Prater has created. 

A Little bit of Plot

Tomorrow has a problem. In order for her to inherit her entitled duchy, she must marry a title man; her cousin has made it his goal that this will never happen. With several attempts on her life, she turns to the one person that can both protect her and fill the role she needs to inherit. 

Darko has deep regrets. After years of living with the scars from a terrible war, all he wants is peace. When a offer is made to not only add more wealth to his hoard but allow him a path to redemption, how can a dragon refuse? What he doesn’t expect is the deep connection that begins to form with one slight but mighty fae.

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

Strong Women Come In All Shapes & Sizes - Just. Like. That.

Prater begins the book with this forward: “For women who fight hard to support other women.” And she delivers. Throughout this series, Prater has demonstrated that a warriors heart doesn’t necessarily lie in the physically strong amongst us, but through strong conviction, morality, and self sacrifice. With each heroine in this series, and side characters, we are presented with women who follow Campbell’s Hero’s Journey with quests of varying size and scope. To me, Tomorrows crusade in receiving duchy, repaying her grandmother, and bringing Glen Freest to his knees is as important as Rain receiving her mantle as the Bloody Queen of Night. 

I love that the word “ferocious” is used so often in this book. Mainly it’s used to describe that because Tomorrow is Seelie, she says “ferocious things tend to like me.” To which Dark replies, “I know that. I AM a ferocious thing.” But throughout the novel, ferocity is used to describe Tomorrow in a way that belies physical strength. At one point, she takes on her would be murderers by ‘throwing hands’ to the best of her ability in order to save Dark, a literal dragon. 

The window above Dark’s head flew open. Shrieking like a battle-hungry banshee, Tomorrow launched herself from the sill, bringing down the bladed attacker under her weight…Tomorrow swung her fists wildly, battering the human beneath her into the stone alleyway. Dark knew by the madness of her strikes that she hadn’t been in any fights before. But what she lacked in form, she made up for in enthusiasm. 

Additionally, there’s a twist to Tomorrows story that I will not spoil, but know that once you learn of it, the conviction she employs to repay those who have cared for her, is quite commendable. I also love how quickly Dark sees and loves the spark of rebellion found within her. He understands that she needs to stand on her own two feet, but is willing to support her (especially with that sexy tail) and let her lead. 

“I know you,” he insisted.

Her heart soared. This beautiful dragon man knew her because he believed her. Believer her at her word. Just. Like. That. Believed her in a way so few had ever bothered to. Tomorrow had taken her plight to every authority…It meant so much to her that he would, that he cared, that he tried. Thanks to him, she’d get her revenge finally. 

That phrase: “Just. Like. That.” is utilized a number of times in the novel and I think it encapsulates the phrase, “when you know…you know”. Dark knows what he needs from Tomorrow and vice versa in order to make them both complete. For her, she needs him to be the brawn, but she’ll be the brave. 

The Meat (The con)

I don’t want it to end!!! 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

Tying Up Storylines - Final Bow

What an amazing series. What I love about this book is that we get cameos (or mentions) of other characters from previous books to allow them their own farewell. We get to see Rain being a terrifying badass, Frances as her lovely and beguiling self, and Jonas as the charmingly sardonic Han Solo type antihero. In fact, we also get a scene with said Bargainer and his furry companion, Cat: 

The cat dug its claws into its owner’s jacket, white hair standing on end. 

“Shoot my things if you must,” Jonas shouted, hunkered down beside the duke, “but if one blasted bullet hits my cat, I’m going to rip your fucking faces off”

Random, it’s become a thing with Veronica and I, that we quote face off - so when I see the words “face off” in the wild I must respond with: “I'd like to take his... his face... off.”

Lastly, what Fae Tricksters book wouldn’t be complete without Susan and Margot, our favorite brothel/tavern owners. I believe their roles in this book rival in size with the first in the series. The main crux of this storyline takes place at the Golden Boot, therefore, they play pivotal roles in furthering the plot in many cases. Plus, they are the perfect comic relief. Hot sexually free ladies who are ‘doing it for themselves’? Sign me up. We also get this exchange: 

Get Tomorrow up and downstairs in time for lunch, and then you can both thank Margot and her glorious tits.” Susan changed out the coal in the stove and quite the room.

Amen. Hallelujah. May the force be with you. 

It’s like a prayer in a church that I would gladly become a weekly member.

While I’m sad to see the end of this series, there’s one thing I know: whatever S.L. Prater has coming up, I’m sure I’ll love. While this world differs from that of the Street Witch and Kriegspiel series, I’m confident that wherever she chooses to go next will be just as beautiful and exciting. Plus, ladies supporting ladies, amirite? 

Holy Cats, people! Not catpeople, or rabbitshifters, or fishpeople, or orcs… but holy hell, folx! This book is hot. When the call for ARC readers came across our insta for Kass O’shire’s, On the Care and Keeping of Orcs, I was first taken in by the salacious cover. Holy crap on a cracker does this book deliver. I will admit that I had not read the first book in this series but never did I feel lost in any way. I have since then gone back and read A Polar Expedition: and Other Stimulating Research Opportunities which is the first in the series, and it is equally as amazing. Before getting to the meat of this review (meat, heh heh), I'd like to thank Kass O'Shire for the ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.

A Little Bit of Plot

An short expedition to retrieve horses as a gift for a loved one turns becomes a second chance sensual love fest over land, sea, and air. When tasked with rescuing the beloved horses of her sister in law, Catrin finds herself in close quarters with her former crush and he’s hell bent on making her his.

Torsten regrets the way in which he departed from Sanctuary 15 years ago, and how he’s missed a life with the one person he’s always felt drawn to…Catrin. When enlisted for a two week expedition alone with Catrin, will he be able to gain forgiveness and show her he’s ready for forever with her?

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

This Girl Does the Work

Can I tell you how enjoyable this book is to read? I’m so impressed by the level of intricacy that Kass O’Shire has put into her novels. The footnotes are so inclusive and detailed. You have your main storyline. Check. But then O’Shire goes even further presenting lore and history of the region that provides depth and introspection without having to have previous knowledge of the entire makeup of the world. Please take one of the first footnotes as an example of this intense level of detail:

While lunula pyrocystis serves as a conduit for maginc wherever it is found, tehre is a degradation of potency that happens over time. Because of the extreme proximity to the source in Sanctuary, the lunula found there glows extra brightly and is extremely powerful.

O’Shire is allowing readers who may be unfamiliar with the world, not having read the previous novel for example, the ability to still become immersed and enjoy this slice of life from within.

In this same chapter, we have one of my favorite footnotes:

The prior time she’s referencing is when Torsten broke down ehr door because his sister had gotten her menses. Their parents were at work for the day and she’d been napping. He was much younger and though he knew about menarche, he’d be convinced it was too much blood.

Some of the footnotes are historical in nature, but oftentimes, they are ‘asides’ from the true ‘author’ of the story. These give the novel a more ‘settled in’ feeling with the world. Overall, I was impressed with the level of detail included.

The Meat (The Con)

I would have liked more detail on the scene in which Cat confesses her crush and Tor lets her down easy (?) 15 years previously. I think it would have provided just a bit more context. Funny enough, normally I hate too much angst, but I needed a bit more backstory (from both sides).

The Bottom Bun (The Meat)

Representation is Everything

On the podcast we love to read novels that display representation from every walk of life. The more we normalize our differences is how they will in fact become the “norm”. The care and respect that O’Shire devotes to a specific characters' coming out and transition journey is quite beautiful. Equally admirable is the easy acceptance everyone has in relation to the transition.

Ingrid started playing with the edge of Catrin’s blouse. “Girl words feel…yucky. Today Torsten called me ‘Bud’ and it felt real good. It’s not fair that ‘sissy’ feels yucky and my name feels yucky but ‘bud’ feels just right!”

In particular, Torsten plays a role in this particular characters’ coming out and as a result takes them under his wing to facilitate an uneventful transformation within their community. I say uneventful, because this fulfilled the characters wishes - they wanted everyone to immediately recognize their new name/gender, without drawing attention to the change. Again, we are reinforcing the normalcy transitioning holds within the Sanctuary community.

Moreover, I love that immediately following their declaration, Catrin and the narrator both refer to this character as he/him pronouns automatically.

She kissed Ingrid’s head and whispered conspiratorially. “But, I think I might have some good news…”

“What?” Ingrid said, sniffling.

“Being born a girl doesn’t mean - “ she stopped. No, that wasn’t quite right. “Just because we thought you were a girl, doesn’t mean you have to keep trying to be that way, or that you ever really were.”...

“What about ‘he’?’” Catrin asked as gently as she could. A slow smile crept across Ingrid’s face. Biting a lip, he nodded his head. “That feels real good.”

I would love to live in a world where this is an everyday conversation without fear of repercussions or rejection. The more we represent the normalcy of this situation, we send a message that those experiencing the same will find acceptance, respect, and love. Brava!

Lastly, because I brought this up in the intro, it’s a little like Chekovs’ Cock; I have to revisit it in the 3rd act. If you are looking for a hot as hell, piercings are pleasurable, spicy read - look no further. Additionally, If you can get your hot lil' hands on any of the artwork that goes along with the book - it will live up to your imagination. Let’s just say, their first separate, but simultaneous, sexual experience gave us a glimpse into how explosive it would be once these two got together physically:

A chuckle rolled across Catrin from Torsten’s side of the cave. “Next time, kitten, we should do that together. Though this was a good deal of fun.”

Holy cats, Chekov’s Cock, indeed.

I'm not a reality show viewer, with the exception of makeover shows, and SYFY's FaceOff (which is baller and I miss it), so this was right up my alley. My two favorite makeover ones being Queer Eye (the GOAT) and What Not To Wear (when TLC wasn't just a bunch of trash). Additionally, being a #fatgirl myself, this book hit all the right notes for me. I was delighted to be given an ARC of On the Plus Side by Jenny L. Howe.

A Little Bit of Plot

When she lost her grandmother, Everly Winters, also lost a bit of herself. Her goal, in life and career, has been to disappear into the background. Her receptionist job at a marketing firm hasn't exactly been fulfilling, neither has her not so covert crush on Thor look alike coworkerJames. Suddenly she has been selected to participate in the reality show, On the Plus Side, which is focused on fat acceptance. She immediately connects with grumpy cameraman, Logan, who plays a foil to the overly friendly and quaffed James. When Logan and Everly grow closer, will their relationship take a front seat to her art and personal growth? She agreed to join the show to find herself not a boyfriend.

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

Everly's Journey

What I loved about this book is that Everly is an 'every person'; there's nothing really quirky about her. Howe has done a fantastic job as creating the perfect cypher for readers to relate to her situation and her interactions. At times, I felt as though I've had similar conversations with people in my own life. I too had a parent that equated thinness to happiness, hence the eating disorder Ive have for over 20 years of my life.

This quote in particular that hit close to home

Everly wasn’t one of those people who could let embarrassment roll off their backs. She was an obsesser. A re-liver. She would replay this moment over and over in her head like a new song she’d just heard until nothing else existed.

I'm not sure about others, but the number of sleepless nights I have relived cringy moments from middle school or the dumb thing I said at work last week.

There are many beautiful scenes in this book, but one in particular that actually made me feel so seen and will lead to my bottom bun.

During her session with Jazzy where they go through her closet and wardrobe, one of the main aspects of this exercise is to delve into what is keeping her back from making progress. It's very personal and emotional.

I was too exhausted and scared to do the Collective without my grandmother. If she had been my mirror, now I was staring at an empty wall. I didn’t know where I fit anymore. The art that had made me so proud looked silly. Weird. I was too afraid people wouldn’t understand what I was doing. I knew it would break my grandmother’s heart to see me quit, to see me give in to my fears, but it felt safer. Disappearing is safer...Then there’s never the chance that I might be all the things I’m afraid I am: too weird, too loud, too awkward.”

Everly had to take a breath before she spoke the last one.

“Too much.”

At some point in my life, I gave up caring what other people thought of me and my idiosyncrasies; however, to be Everly's age and living her struggle, I wish I had this book to let me know it was absolutely fine to be different. Laugh a little louder than others, let my freak flag fly, and just not GAF.

The Meat (The Con)

I felt like the tattoo aspirations were kind of tacked on. And there's something we don't get to see that I'm a bit disappointed in, but I can't share because :major spoilers:

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

LOGAN

I love Logan so much. I usually don't stunt cast in my reviews, but I'm imagining Chris Evans, with his naturally dark blonde hair and blue eyes and IDGAF attitude (think beginning of End Game style). This is our introduction:

How was this happening? And to Everly of all people. “Holy fuck,” she muttered again. Somewhere nearby, a frustrated groan broke through the shock that had left her ears ringing. “There goes that take.” Everly cut her gaze toward the gruff voice. It came from a guy standing slightly apart from the rest of the group, an expensive-looking camera balanced on his shoulder. He’d angled it to the side so he could judge her with his whole face. Whatever he saw caused his frown to deepen beneath his dark, close-trimmed beard.

Logan is poised to be the critical, super buff, alpha dude that looks down on people like Everly. We quickly learn that he's just grumpy when it comes to getting a good shot and Everly talking down about herself. He's so supportive, that it makes me jealous of his relationship with Everly. The conversation that Jazzy has with Everly that I detailed in my top bun ends like this:

For a moment, no one spoke. Then, out of nowhere, Logan growled, “Fuck that.” His voice was so distinct, so clear, that Everly suddenly understood the phrase “shattering the silence.” It was like something palpable broke against the roughness of his voice. Her eyes cut to his face.

“Hey.” Jazzy waved at him. “Language and the fourth wall and all that.”

“Fuck it. Greg can edit me out. You are not too much.”

His reaction reminds me of that Ted Lasso quote, "I have a hard time hearing people who don’t believe in themselves.". After this interaction, Logan definitely becomes Everly's 'person'. Late in the novel, Logan is given an ultimatum of sorts and he says "to me, you're what matters". He also has a pretty great grand gesture (no third act breakup) that's played pretty low-key, but it's beautiful nonetheless. Logan is up there with my favorite book boyfriends.

Overall, this book releases 12/26 and you should scoop it up. It's a relationship angst free novel that will give you a confidence boost and a sense of hope for culture moving forward.

Hello folx! I’m here with another teenage enemies to lovers, second chance, rivals romance. You know, next week when we’re carving up mr. tom turkey I’m going to give thanks for all of you romance authors serving up delicious helpings of E2L goodness on an ongoing basis. Is it toxic? Probably. Does anyone care? Nope, not at all. So let me bend your ears? Eyes? Whatever, let me tell you about the newest from Alexa Martin, Next-Door Nemesis, a book about rivals competing over the run for HOA President. Yup, you got that right. Home Owners Association President. I’m going to be totally honest here, it’s a trip, a delightfully low angst rom-com that will leave you smiling and shedding a couple tears along the way. 

A Little Bit of Plot

Colins Carter, wannabe in demand screen-writer finds herself hiding out in her parents middle Ohio home at the ripe old age of 29 after a viral video forced her to exit Hollywood. Who does she run into on one of her first days back in town, none other than her high school nemesis and former best friend, Nathaniel Adams. Nate, sweater vests in June wearer, real estate agent extraordinaire, large old school Buick owner, and HOA President hopeful, is not delivering the warmest of welcomes. The friction between the pair results in Collins throwing in her hat in the ring and competing against Nate the Snake. Can these two put the past to bed without falling in one themselves? 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun

Collins Carter herself

You see Collins begin the novel as sad, rage-filled and sullen, which, she has every right to be. What she’s gone through is thoroughly infuriating. While I never imagined that a run for the office of HOA president would be the inciting incident that pushes her to move forward and reinvent herself, it works here. Having lived in the neighborhood all her life up through high school, she spent the majority of her time dreaming of a life outside of Ohio. After being chewed up and spit out by LA, she begins to appreciate the more sedate life with her family and friends in this sleepy Columbus suburb (I will not call it C-bus, thank you very much). Once she accepts that this life isn’t inferior to that of California, it’s just different, we start to see a calmer more accepting Collins. While I appreciate a lady who can go from 0 to Angry in 60 seconds (myself included), it’s tough to carry this through the entirety of a novel. Who wants to read about a lose cannon raging heroine for 300 pages? 

We start to see this transformation in little increments. Mostly I got the feeling that she was starting to evolve as a character upon her first conversation with her new OTT neighbor Ashleigh. Recognizing her from high school, Collins begins, at first, with no intention of getting to know or becoming friends with Ash. 

“Thank you so much, Mark. Let me just say goodby to my friend and I’ll be right there,” she says.

I don’t know what’s more shocking: that she called me a friend or that her tone was devoid of the condescending tone most people around here have when speaking to hired help. I’ve kept to myself, not even remotely interested in forming any new bonds or friendships. But even with her ultrabubbly personality and zest for reminiscing, I feel like Ashleigh is creeping past my defenses.

Those defenses that she kept so high at the beginning quickly crumble as she’s forced to participate in parades, canvassing for her candidacy, and being outright ‘neighborly’. When she delivers her big speech at the HOA debate, you feel she’s grown and begun to appreciate the small things - not a small town thinking necessarily, but living comfortably in a small tight knit community. 

The Meat (The con)

Nate divulges what drove him to cutting ties with her in high school and while I understand it…I also don’t? Also, this is only 12 years ago…how was there no therapy for this child!

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

I Sorta Felt Seen? 

I’m going to preface this by saying I was on the board of my HOA at one time, and it was nothing like the book (although a few things were similar) I still appreciated the aspect of placing your rom-com in the low stakes run for HOA political office. Everything that happens in this book, while seeming outlandish, actually if you think about it, really isn’t. I can totally imagine one of my neighbors with a giant inflatable Ben Franklin for Independence Day, I’ve actually been to the Ohio State Fair (I performed at it one summer), and know many women who still get sucked into MLM’s. I’m not going to say I feel seen, but quite possibly maybe glimpsed at. Or...Maybe it’s just living in Ohio. As much of a hell hole it’s been living here the past few years, I definitely felt a connection just the same. 

I have been on edge waiting for this final book in the Meriwell sisters. I loved the first two so much. In fact Giles is still one of the best book boyfriends ever. While Never Rescue a Rogue redeemed Vee in my eyes from the first book, Never Fall for your Fiancé, I was a little a little worried about her being the heroine and taking center stage this time. 

I will never doubt Virginia Heath ever again. Ever. Her final book, Never Wager on a Wallflower, in the Meriwell Sisters trilogy is absolutely delightful. 

A Little Bit of Plot

Venus Meriwell is now 22 years old, devoting much of her time teaching and caring for orphans. Galahad (Gal) Sinclair, is a gambler, tavern owner, and :gasp: half American. What started as a meet-pummeling, 4 years earlier, has grown into an irritated friction where neither party can stand the others presence for longer than a few hours. When Gal begins to view her in a different light and Vee learns there's more to him than cards and gaming, they find themselves growing closer. Throw in one big misunderstanding and these two will need to trust one another or remain enemies forever. 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

The Progression of their relationship

Our first on-page interaction between both Vee and Gal is fraught with tension. He delights in infuriating her and she constantly underestimates his intentions and intelligence. Slowly both begin to see the more positive aspects of the other; all starting with a simple waltz. When they finally touch bare hands it's like electricity. Heath builds the attraction between the two just to tear it down monumentally for the 3rd act. We then again, must slowly build back trust and accept the attraction that has never disappeared even though they've 'broken up' in a sense. We have a constant pull to one another - and the blow up between the two is pretty huge, so to be able to continue to stoke up an attraction despite this is a feat in itself. 

The Meat (The Con)

I would have liked a Grand Gesture - we don't necessarily get one here. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

The Diary Entries

If I look back at my review for Never Fall for your Fiancé, Venus Meriwell was my con. At the time she read like a very bratty, selfish, teenager, and I just really had no interest in learning anything more about her. I joked that at one point in the novel, Hugh and Giles are going to ship her out to the country and I cheered. Therefore, the transformation she has in the second novel in the series sets up this book so well in preparing the reader for a new and lovable, intelligent, empathetic, and beautiful character. I LOVED Venus by the end of this book. Like she is on my short list of favorite heroines of this year.

To enable the viewer to witness the transformation that was happening off page in the prior books, Heath has included diary entries that perfectly align with progression of the storyline. We have excerpts from Vee at different points in the last 8 years or so. To understand what she was thinking and feeling and how it effected her personality at that moment in time is absolutely vital for her character 'redemption'. 

In speaking of this redemption, Heath provides insights as to why she acted the way she did in regard to her father, and why she's still holding on hope for seeing him one last time. The reason she gives is so poignant that I'm not going to spoil it here, but it was like a kick to the chest when you read it. Your heart will hurt for that 14 year old Vee. In this moment, both she and Gal are these fractured broken lonely pieces that realizes they are made for one another. It's a beautiful conversation. 

Overall, pick it up - all of Heath's catalogue is awesome. Honestly, these can be stand alones, but to get the full effect, I'd read them in order - the full circle Venus Meriwell rotates will be all the sweeter. 

It’s a wonderful day because I’m here to discuss another installment from the magical world of S.L. Prater! I absolutely adore delving back into this series; it feels so lived in but fresh and new at the same time. Praters latest release, Mated to the Mad Marquess, is the 4th installment (but can be read as a stand alone) in the Fae Trickster series and it’s a delight.

A Little Bit of Plot

Malcolm, the Mad Marquess, is restless, or maybe lonely..or maybe both? Hrafn has been tied to her home for centuries, she yearns to travel as beings like she are wont to do. Upon their first meeting both are shocked to discover that after hundreds of years searching they’ve finally found their true mate…in each other. He has responsibilities tying him to his land, she wishes to see the world. Can they live without one another after centuries of longing only to now discover their other half? 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

Familiars, Fairies, and more!

One thing (of which there are many) that Prater excels at is creating engaging and delightful side characters that will win over your heart. Like with other novels in this series, our heroine Hrafn, has given a piece of her soul to a demon as an immortal companion. Here we have a very stoic bird familiar, Ezra, who can transform at will. I would say that Ezra plays more of the ‘straight man’ to the pairing of a delightful mischievous fairy named Clappa. Clappa is a snarky child sized sprite with a bitey attitude and playful yet loyal personality. Give her a button and you have a friend for life. Both Clappa and Ezra upon first meeting, soon warm up to one another: 

Beside her, she found Ezra and the fairy child huddled together against the night’s chill. 

“I thought you said she was a feral beast?” Hrafn teased.

The fairy used her claws to pet down Ezra’s back. He leaned into her touches. She can eat my face off, he said, so long as she keeps scratching my itches.

Prater packs so much personality into each of her characters, but in particular, these small companions as they serve as the comic relief in some of the more serious and tense scenes. These characterizations have the reader yearning for an immortal familiar of their own. Plus, you get a built in ‘ride or die’ for life, not a bad deal.  

The Meat (The Con)

These books are too short or I read them too fast! She creates this lovely story, I devour it, and then have to wait for more. Urgh! 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

An Understanding Hero

What I love about Praters novels is the understanding that each hero has for their lady. This is evident not only here but in every series she's written. Strong men who accept and advocate for their equally (or most often moreso) powerful partners. We live in a world where every step forward a woman takes is knocked back five, being able to enjoy a male hero who displays strength but not belittling the heroine in the process feels like a win. Hrafn can take care of herself, thank you very much. The same can be said for all of Prater’s heroines. They will be fine on their own, the heroes are just an added bonus. 

This was a gift he was giving her. A piece of her culture, a treasured mating ritual. Acceptance in a world that wanted to forget her. This last time with him was sacred, because no matter what happened, when the monster was dealt with, she was leaving her cage and taking these precious moments with her. Forever.

Hrafn makes the hard choices and so does Malcolm. She refuses to be caged any longer and Malcolm is unwilling to be her jailer for eternity. These decisions are made with undeniable strength by both parties. I always say that certain authors make good choices when writing, and we see that here. What both characters are willing to sacrifice for the mental and emotional well being of one another is not only realistic, but it’s the right thing to do. 

As I’ve said with every S.L. Prater book, this is a must buy, must read. Delightful characterization, witty dialogue, and a magical world full of smoke monsters and witches - what more can you ask for? Plus, fam, this book is so dang hot. Like 4 alarm fire in your pants - hot. Certain scenes had me hot under the collar, my friends. 

On sale now! Amazon 

The holidays have finally arrived y'all. Somewhere, someone is thawing Mariah out of her ice cube...I can hear the first strains of her lyrical genius.... I'm a sucker for enemies to lovers, you know this. Add in a sex positive family, a heroine that helps market sex toys, and a marvel-esque superhero playing  hero, and you got yourselves a hit. I absolutely adored the second installment of the Over The Top Love series, Holiday Vibes, by Sarah Brenton. It's a steamy, comedic romp with a really intriguing and delightful cast of characters. 

Christmas vacation is going to suck, at least, it will for Jessie Foley. Unable to excuse her way out of another year of familial festive tidings, Jessie figures she at least won't be subjected to the presence of her nemesis, Nic Fontana. Nic Fontana has spent the last 5 years in a loveless marriage with the wrong woman. He runs home to celebrate with the one family that has always treated him as one of their ranks, The Foleys. He gears himself up for an entire week celebrating the holidays with the one person in the world that hates him above anyone else, Jessie, his best friends twin sister. After a very sexy confrontation in a laundry room leads to a no-strings holiday fling, both Jessie and Nic strive to keep from catching feelings but also possibly finding a middle ground. Mistletoe, watercolors, and a tiny stuffed teddy bear prove that maybe Nic and Jessie should consider a truce, at least until New Years.

What I liked about this book: 

The Lead Characters are wonderful. Both are fully fleshed out and their dual perspectives work so well here. You quickly understand what the Foley's mean to Nic and why getting along with Jessie or at least being on neutral ground is vital to having access to the group of people he considers a lifeline and they consider him one their own. Both Jessie and Nic are torn as to what exactly they want to do with their lives; they are both questions whether they are happy with the trajectory of their careers or whether a change is required.

The secondary characters are lovely; Celia, the matriarch of the Foley family is a blast. If you're picturing Martha Stewart post prison then you're on the right track. Everyone in the Foley clan is famous or celebrity-adjacent in some manner. In other books, this might prevent the reader from relating or forming connections with the characters, however, Brenton paints a truly quirky cast of lovable eccentrics. 

We have a heroine with a lower key grand gesture (maybe a venti gesturi?) This VG/GG occurs after both the hero and heroine put in the work to not only mend what's broken inside (or begin to) and make some realistic and oftentimes tough decisions. Warning, the 3rd act breakup is rough - my heart hurt a lot. 

Lastly, this book is hot folx. Real hot. I mean, our girl works at a sex toy company...so just know that those come into play at some point. 

There wasn't much I didn't like. If I have one gripe it's that I would have like to have seen more of the trio of Jessi, Timothy, and Nic growing up. So we could see the pining. But I will say, I really liked the angle Brenton has for why there was a falling out between Jessie and Nic as teens. It works real well.

I was a bit on the fence with the description for Off the Charts Chemistry by Christine Miles. Like the heroine of this book, I hate American football. Unlike Stacey, I don’t see myself coming around to it at all, of course, I don’t have a charming and affable coach to entice me into it. Nevertheless, I found this book to be quite charming and well paced. Quite a bit unassuming but is quite lovely. 

A Little Bit of Plot

When new football coach Reece Campbell arrives as the new football coach at Brigid’s Vista High School to replace the newly retired ‘football god’ head coach, he has his work cut out for him. With scorned co-workers vying to remove him and players parents calling the shots, Reece second guesses his decision until he meets one bespectacled and delightful Chemistry teacher, Stacey Kinsella. Stacey hates sports, football in general, and would rather her students follow more academic pursuits. She knows that Chemistry might not be for everyone, but makes it her mission to make it more accessible and applicable. When an accidental flashing incident becomes the worst kept town secret, Reece and Stacey soon discover that together they have off the charts chemistry. See what I did there? 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

The Chemistry

While this is an opposites attract novel, both Stacey and Reese feel the immediate sparks. Someone said in a review that this is a slow burn. I’m not sure what they were reading, but these two characters are interested in each from jump street. While they are a bit tame with their first impressions in regards to each others bodies, you can definitely understand that they are interested in seeing whats under the lab coats and tight khaki’s pants. He does fixate on her black bras though, which is muy caliente. 

Additionally, Reece doesn’t care that he meets Stacey while not looking her ‘best’, it’s almost as though he’s only got eyes for her and not her clothes. Which is refreshing. He also prefers her in her glasses - it’s that sexy librarian trope. While she’s very open with her dislike of football, she begins to come around because she understands quite quickly that their burgeoning relationship is meaningful and to love Reece is to understand what he’s good at and brings him joy.

I will give props to Miles, as she has written two characters that I honestly believed hit it off immediately. They seem to naturally get along. Both Stacey and Reece are down to earth and likable. Friday Night Lights was mentioned a number of times in the book and I would definitely stuntcast a young Kyle Chandler for Reece Campbell absolutely. He also pulls out a ‘clear eyes, full hearts, can’t lose’ speech at one point. 

The Meat (The Con)

The Perfume

The making of perfume seemed like an afterthought. It would have been interesting if it had played a bigger role, such as, what intoxicated Reece in the beginning. Or having her friends test out the scents to see if they could score love interests too. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

Low Stakes Romance without Miscommunication

Sometimes you need a low angst, almost zero stakes, miscommunication free romance. We have one moment where the heroine was unaware of something involving Reece’s ex-wife, but it is so minute that we get an explanation and just…move on. It’s refreshing. 

Plus we have a few spicy sex scenes which were enjoyable, for sure. Plus, Stacey takes the reins, and jumps right in. She knows what she wants and just goes for it. 

Also, adorable dog side characters. Her fellow teachers/friends are delightful too. I’m pretty stoked about Luke and Morgans book. I’ll be back for the next installment and would completely recommend. Received an ARC from Netgalley for an unbiased review.

We've been extremely lucky with our ARC's as of late and this last pick was no exception! With Curves For Days by Laura Moher,  I found a very charming book about a very isolated and lonely woman who ‘finds herself’ and a tremendous amount of self worth in a small welcoming mountainous NC town. The hero had his own journey of self discovery too. I thought both had exceptional chemistry with one another and provided a safe space for each to grow. 

The book describes the journey of Rose Barnes, a midwestern curvy girl with a secret lottery windfall and traumatic backstory, who flees into the south to discover anonymity and a way to distribute her new found wealth in a safe manner. Along the way, she meets Angus, an army vet and therapist whose main source of income is construction. While Angus reconstructs her newly purchased fixer upper, the two grow closer - from friends to eventual lovers (spoiler alert, it’s a romance novel guys). What happens when Angus learns Rose’s secret and will she ever feel comfortable to take a leap of faith? 

Several things I adored about this novel: 

1. Rose suffers from trauma related to sexual violence. Trigger warnings if you’ve experienced SV, DV, or SA. What I loved about how Moher handled the intimacy in the love was through Angus creating a safe space in which Rose was continually in control. Every step that’s taken is initiated or ‘approved of’ by her. Angus is aware of her past, therefore, is cognizant of the fact that for the experience to be enjoyable, Rose has to take the lead and feel in control. Speaking as a SA survivor, I believe others will find this to be extremely moving. 

2. Rose’s reaction to suddenly becoming extremely wealthy is refreshing. You hear the horror stories of lottery winners who lose it all in mere months by just spending like crazy. Rose is determined to keep a small amount for herself and give away the remainder by helping others. We love to see it. 

3. The romance isn’t overwhelming. Not that I don’t love a big ol’ whirlwind romance. This is definitely a sorta-enemies - to friends - to lovers story and it works for the journeys of both main characters. When the third act breakup (spoilers cuz duh it’s a romance novel) this gradual build up hits even harder. You see them become extremely ingrained in each other's lives, so this one is gonna punch you in the feels my friends.

4. The side characters are lovely. I understand this is going to be a series, so I’m excited to see where we head next. I think I know (July and Lenny?), but I’ll be excited to see if I’m correct.

All in all, I really enjoyed this one. We all love to see the bullied plus sized girl come into her own and build up self confidence. Plus, she gets the giant sexy grump in the end. What’s not to love? 

This book was like the most succulent of catnip for me as a fantasy and historical romance reader. We had the every day minutiae of the 19th century England with witches, mages, and hot men with horns. It was like Carnival Row but with a likable heroine and not Orlando Bloom. Well, and here magic and supernatural creatures were more accepted…okay, why don’t we have a better tv series featuring the elements of Victorian London, Satyrs, and fun familiars that build immortal bonds with their witch counterparts. Better yet, someone needs to contact S.L. Prater and start developing her worlds into a screenplay pronto. Mama needs some new tv! Also, if anyone has any suggestions of show that I might be missing, throw me a comment, and yes, I’ve seen The Nevers…which aptly describes the likelihood of that show returning for a 2nd season… boom! 

The newest novel, Wedded to the Wanton Witch by S.L. Prater, is the 3rd novel in the Fae Tricksters series. The previous duet, Court of Tricksters and King of Tricksters introduces the readers to the Lunar Court and the world built between immortal Fae, humans, and other magical beings. 

A Little Bit of Plot

Jonas Moen is a untitled immortal trickster in want of a wife; more importantly, an entitled one. He realizes quickly that only one such lady will fit the bill, none other than the Wanton Witch of Whiteholm, Lady Frances Aaberg.

 Facing financial ruination, Frances has no choice but to accept the Bargainers offer; enter into a marriage of convenience where she stipulates that they will only be sharing a bed one time. At least, that’s what Frances believes, but she did agree to marry a trickster after all. With an eternity ahead of them, what happens when feelings are involved and they begin to entrust their hearts once again to another person? 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

Jonas Moen

Holy cats, guys. Jonas Moen is just everything you’re looking for in a hero: strong, vulnerable (when needed), protective, cunning, loyal, supportive..I mean, I can continue for hours..just literally everything that makes up a great book boyfriend. While he wants to marry for a title, secretly  he wants a challenge, both in the bedroom and out of it. A relationship that will make eternity exciting and unpredictable rather than boring and monotonous. 

While this book is very low stakes, we do have a very sweet grand gesture, and the links Jonas crosses to perform this act, are very cunning but endearing - definitely utilizing his trickster acumen. Also, we also have a #fallsfirstfallshard hero. The whole problem facing Jonas is convincing the Wanton Witch of Whiteholm to love him in return. He’s a very determined trickster, however, and not adverse to using anything in his arsenal to make himself irresistible. 

Lastly, side note, the relationship he builds with his cat, Cat (yes, that's her name) is so freaking adorable. He’s just so damn whimsical it’s hard not to be charmed. Prater has drawn such a fascinating caricature of Jonas that you can picture this handsome horned man, decked out like a dandified John Thornton, with a fluffy white cat just strewn across his neck. 

He doesn’t have a walking stick though...he needs a fun walking stick that also hides a saber. 

Just thoughts I have.

The Meat (The Con)

Glen Freest needs a spanking. A severe one - not sexy in the least. On page. That’s all. 

I need Glen to get what’s coming to him. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

The Banter

I could have gone a million different ways with this. There’s so much to love about this book: the return of side characters (and a few cameos) from the first novels, an exceptionally adorable familiar named Iso (who I imagine was voiced by Lizzo), and the loving dynamic of found family. Heck, we could talk about how S.L.’s books are getting increasingly spicer as we go.  No hate - nothing but loving. There is  scene in this book that I sent to my co-host which left us speechless (in a good way, obvi) and me in need of ice water and a cigarette. 

All that aside, I want to focus on the banter in this book, both spoken and epistolary. From jumpstreet we're treated to hard core foreplay in the form of verbal sparring:

Frances cleared her throat with a dainty cough. “I should probably apologize for calling you a barbarian before.”

Jonas shoved his hands into his pockets, amusement tugging up the corner of his mouth. “A barbarian with a pea-sized heart and a cock for brains.”

Her cheeks colored a darker shade of pink than her natural hue. “I’d forgotten that last part.”

“You also wished I’d go live on the moon.”

A short burst of laughter rolled out of her. It took her a moment to regather her composure. “Ahem…That part I remember.”

Mind you, this dialogue is from their first interaction we are privy to in the novel. 

This is how we are introduced to Frances. What's not to love?

Large portions of the novel are notes that travel between the pair either setting up the ground rules prior to their marriage and sort of ‘check ins’ after. 

This exchanges occurs in the lead up to their wedding:

Mr. Moen, 

I do not appreciate the colorful announcement of our engagement in the papers. You failed to discuss any of this with me first. We haven’t yet had an appropriately lengthy courtship, and the picture you selected to represent our upcoming union is ghastly. A caricature of us strangling each other - though an accurate depiction of our innermost feelings - is not a proper picture. This is not the way of things. 

Uncivilly, 

Your Furious Future Bride

Dear Hostile, 

Kidnapping one’s mate was a selection process, not a wedding. Perhaps you don’t remember because you aren’t as old as I, but women were allowed to leave if they wanted to…eventually. Marriage was certainly always their choice first and foremost. Making the escape too easy was seen as an insult to one’s intended. The chase and the capture was part of the fun for both parties.

If you ever tire of being a good little human, I’d be happy to demonstrate the old ways so you can decide for yourself which is superior. 

Respectfully, 

Your Future Husband

(Reviewers note: Now I have Dear Future Husband by Megan Trainor in my head)

All this sniping is jovial, none of it exceptionally heavy or mean spirited, which lends a more effervescent tone to the storyline. This is very much a departure from the two prior novels, which admittedly, deal with much more intense themes. 

We also begin to see Jonas softening to Frances through his treatment of these notes and the reverence in which he holds them. S.L. has used this plot device before in her novels and is expert at adding emotional depth to relationships while providing context to the world around the characters. 

Lastly, I just want to say, Prater is gifted at building a world that is easily accessible and blends fantastical elements, historical tropes, and more updated societal and cultural views. Never does the dialogue feel too ‘modern’ or anachronistic; nothing in her novels have ever taken me out of the story, unlike some historical or fantasy works. In fact, like all of the works in her oeuvre, Prater creates witty beautiful prose with exceptional dialogue, delightful worldbuilding, and unforgettable characters. It's a must read.

Get ready for a love fest! I simply devoured The Duke’s Rebellious Love, the sixth book in the Oxford Set series, by Ava Bond. I have read half of the books in this series, the 1st being in direct correlation to this book. The events here are the result of the HEA between Richard and Prudence of The Marquess’s Adventurous Miss. We have a real enemies to lovers with some very snappy banter. 

A Little Bit of Plot

Sister-in-law of an Earl, bookish bluestocking Miss Clara Blackman is determined that this, her 3rd season, will be her last. She will find a husband, namely, one that can match her wits and interests. Jasper, the Duke of Woolrich, will never marry again. After the death of his philandering first wife and with his heir already in place, he doesn’t find the ton or society life holds any appeal. What he is surprised to find, however, is his electric attraction to little spitfire, Clara. Determined to protect her friendship with Prudence, she will thwart Woolrich in any attempt at revenge. What starts with a stolen kiss evolves into an affair that neither expected. 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

Clara’s Determination

While yes, I think her plan to finally find her match this season is very realistic and planned out - what I’m most impressed about with her comes later in the book. Because it deals with spoilers, I’m not going to discuss the situation but understand that she is placed in a situation that straddles the line to the worst possible scenario and comfort and my girl here chooses correctly. Even after the machinations are put into motion to force her hand and she still chooses her own happiness and self worth. Additionally, she’s not ashamed of her intelligence or her interest in academics. 

The Meat (The Con)

Some of Jaspers Decisions

I can’t go into full context, because..spoilers, however, MY DUDE, you had to know that she was going to be furious with you and you did it anyhow. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

The Banter  (s-WORD-play)

Not since The Sins of Lord Lockwood have I gasped at the verbal cuts and parries within a romance novel. When Jasper and Clara clash verbal swords, it’s like watching two master fencing champions looking for the deepest cut. Again, because of spoilers, I can’t give examples, but just take my word for it, you as the reader will feel it. 

But just know that from all the verbal sparring we get this beautiful line, “I would rather argue with you than talk to another soul.”  

This novel can be read as a standalone, but I encourage you to read at least the first novel in the series, as it’s directly correlated and some of the characters are related in some way. Something I didn’t touch on but will now - this book is hella hot. High steam alert - en fuego!

Today is a good day, and that’s because I get to talk about a delightful book I just read. I’m quite the connoisseur of historical romances so this one was right up my alley. While not familiar to me before, Michelle McLean has now made it to my list of go-to historical romance authors with her newest release, Four Weddings and a Duke. I will say, I’m not a fan of historical American western romances, but I’ve enjoyed her two regency era novels, so I’m willing to take a chance. Also, I picked up a few of her steamy contemporary rom coms that she pens under the name Kira Archer. Dang girl, you get it - quite the oeuvre!

A Little Bit of Plot

Being the middle daughter of 3 sisters, Lavinia Reddington is facing another season hiding behind potted plants while secretly devouring romance novels while spinsterhood looms. Not as extroverted as her sisters, she would rather spend a night with a good book or paintbrush rather than a ton outing. 

Alexander Beaubrooke is the overly studious botanist who would rather toil in soil than step foot in a ballroom. While on the verge of a momentous scientific discovery, he needs a wife. One that detests society and it’s frivolities as much as he does - enter Lavinia. 

Within days of meeting, the two are engaged to be married, it’s what comes after that will put their relationship on the line. What happens when suddenly Livvy enjoys taking part in parties and balls and Alex becomes increasingly involved with his work? One place they can’t deny their attraction is the bedroom; but will it be enough to save this relationship before it starts? 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

The Sensuality of a Pair of Glasses

Livvy has terrible eyesight, and because of this, needs spectacles or at least quizzing glasses to see. Because the ton in regency England was the worst, she is shamed from wearing the one thing that allows her to see - awesome. Alex, however, gets extremely frustrated when he witnesses her struggling without them. Each time he insists that she use them despite going against society’s opinions. 

Before they headed to the table, Alex caught her arm and slipped her spectacles into her hand. 

She glanced up at him shocked. 

“Wear them,” he said.

“But…” Her eyes darted around the room, though without her spectacles or quizzing glass, the features of the guests were hazy. 

He took them back from her and unfolded the thin wire arms so he could slip them onto her nose. He took care to make sure the loops fit comfortably behind her ears and let his thumbs trail across her cheeks in quick caress.

“It will be difficult to play cards if you are holding a quizzing glass with one hand. This is your home. You deserve to be able to comfortably see while you are in it… You are the Duchess of Beaubrooke now,” he said quietly. “You needn’t care what any of these people think.”

The sensuality of his caress to her face in public is something that would have been deemed inappropriate at the time. Many times throughout the book does this couple buck society's norms in relation to what some would deem 'appropriate'. 

We find that as soon as they announce their engagement, Alex and Lavinia physically gravitate close to one another each time they’re in the same room together. The pull toward one another is magnetic. 

She took a deep breath and slowly blew it out, moving ever so slightly closer to the duke, as if he’d shield her from whatever might come her way. A movement everyone seemed to have missed… except Harriet. Her eyes had focused on the excited flush in Lavinia’s cheeks and the pleased look in the duke’s eyes the moment they’d cleared the threshold.

So while tiny touches and the need to be in one another's orbit might not be sensual today, I think McLean describes how touch is taken for granted and how sensory deprived most were in this time period. 

It was a very strange thing to be told one’s whole life that to even touch a man was so forbidden, it could ruin one’s entire life. And then, one day, after a few words from a clergyman, she could stand in this room with this man and do whatever she wanted with him. To him. It was a bit hard to reconcile, and she was sure at least some of the anxiety fluttering in her chest was latent guilt for engaging in activities she’d always been taught were sinful. That was now, somehow, the actions of a good and dutiful wife. 

We should be thankful for the ability to touch one another at will at present and experience that connection with humanity. There is something sexy though to finally experience skin to skin contact after having been forbidden for so long. 

The Meat (The Con)

While I absolutely love the GG in this, I wish we’d had more build up to Alex’s big revelation. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

The Relationship Between Harriet and Liv

Harriet, being the elder sister, and at one point, the one on the cusp of marriage, does not take the news of Lavinia’s wedding well. While at the time, as the reader, you’re like “listen chick, just be happy for your sister, and get that stick out ya’ rear”, you learn the reason for her upset and forgive her her haughtiness. 

Lavinia has exceptional emotional intelligence, however, and while Harriet's iciness upsets her, she only hopes that she will find her own happiness and eventually they can make peace with one another. This peace comes more quickly than we anticipate, and because of spoilers, I’m just going to include this very lovely exchange when the two come to an understanding: 

Harriet froze for a second, staring at her, and then shook her head. “This is part of being the Duchess of Beaubrooke. You wanted to be the duchess, didn’t you?”

Lavinina shook her head. “No. I just wanted the duke.”

Harriet nodded slowly. “And that is why he married you. And why he made the right choice,” she said with a long sigh. 

Lavinia blinked at her in surprise. Kitty did the same.

“Are you admitting that you were…wrong?” Kitty asked.

Harriet scoffed. “Don’t be absurd. I still would have made an excellent duchess.” She leaned forward and squeezed Lavinia’s had. “But I would have made him a terrible wife”.

Harriet plays a large part in the book past this point, and she turns out to be Livvy’s largest proponent. I ended up loving this character and their relationship. 

Lastly, I am writing this as a plea to McLean to write both Kitty and Nigel's stories…if they’re the same one, I’m okay with that too (if you know what I mean).

Honestly, though, McLean does a wonderful job with these characters that at times frustrated me and at others swooning from their actions. I’m working through her Sweet Love Book series currently and it’s also another recommend for me!

Friends, it’s two sequels in a row for me! And like with the other sequel review, I am going to be very brief as we are standing on the cusp of Spoiler City and I don’t want to cross town lines. I’ve been anticipating this release for a while now and was thrilled to have to opportunity to catch up with Hel and Bast and their elemental love affair with Shards of Stasis: Soul Court Ascension Book Two by Mel Harding Shaw. 

A Little Bit of Plot

The contagion is spreading at an increasing speed. Hel is continually stalked by an starhounds by amassing numbers. Bast, meanwhile, is determined to find a course of action that will protect Hel from succumbing to the souls connected to his power - and breaking their mating bond is out of the question. Something ominous is on the horizon and both Hel and Bast are still holding onto secrets that could determine how they will face it, together or apart?  

All the Top Buns (The Pros) 

(Let’s be honest, top buns honors go to Johnathan Bailey…the inspiration of the #buttbitersclub)

Hel

Motherf#$@ Hel is still the boss. She’s a kick ass warrior with sharp wit and even sharper sword. I love my heroines bossy and badass as I will never be such in real life.

 We do witness a few different sides of Hel in this installment, however, mostly due to her body’s response to Bast’s soul energy. Even when in a weakened state, this woman can bring men to heel, and that’s sexy as hell. 

Ignoring her scowl, he braced her body while she took a moment to regain her balance after so long being carried in his arms. 

“Why did you bring her? “ Mica asked him.

“She can hear you, asshole. She’s standing right here,” Hel snapped at the Earth Lord. 

Mica blinked and swept into a bow. “Forgive me, Helaine. Why are you here?”

Bast hid a smirk as Hel figured out what to say in response. She must’ve felt his amusement because she glared at him again. He loved feeling her anger. The way her eyes glittered with emotion. 

She and Bast are struggling to find a way in which the souls that power him won’t destroy her. The other courts want to hand her over to her father. Bast wants to keep her by his side indefinitely. They are at quite the impasse. 

They’d sacrifice her in a heartbeat. Some of them would even enjoy it. She wasn’t selfish. She wouldn’t let the realities collapse again just to save herself. But when the time came, it would be her choice and no one else’s

Her sassiness and Bast’s inexplicable pull to her leads me to another bun…

The Sexual Tension

In the first book, we didn’t get the full scale ‘sexy times’ until the end of the novel. That sesh though, was two things: 1. HOT and 2. creates their bond (and her cool back tattoo). After that night, both have denied the pull, Bast, in particular, is struggling not to touch her or use their bond. Therefore, the two have not gotten busy since that night, but they feel this almost palpable sexual tension every time they share the same space. 

His free hand dropped behind him, pushing the emergency stop. As the elevator car jerked to a halt, he lifted his eyes to meet Hel’s Her tongue darted out to lick her lips and he barely had time to groan before she was throwing herself into his arms, both legs wrapped around his wait as she slipped her tongue into his mouth, just like he’d been fantasizing earlier. This woman. She was everything. His brain shut down. All he could think about was worshiping her. 

Folks, that's just the makeout session...I can easily say when they come back together..HAWT.

There’s so much to rave about this book - the action story arcs are great, Harding does a wonderful job of creating tension and large action scenes. Also, this book moves! There’s no down time to be had here!

One last bun…

The Way that Bast Loves Hel

I love my #fallsfirstfallshard heroes and this is no exception. Both Hel and Bast are cut from the same cloth when it comes to their upbringing. There’s a lot of talk of dark/light and whether or not Hel and Bast seem like a complimentary couple. The greatest moment of ‘this is why we work’ comes after an 'interrogation' of sorts: 

"Better faded than blind. You think him cold like the bodies of the dead? He’s literally overflowing with the power of innumerable lives. He shines with it. The dead gift him that power because of his care for people - his warmth - not because he’s cold. My faded dark self is his opposite…"

"You are neither faded, nor dark. Your soul is literally bleeding out of your body into the place between and you still burn bright."

Bast is in it 100% in this book. He was so angry with her for most of the first novel and she was with him; we needed this slow burn to get to where we are. Hel takes a little longer than Bast, but she gets there in the end. 

It’s time for my trademark (still workshopping it) segment: The Moment the Hero Ruined Me From All IRL Men

This time it’s literally one line, and it’s beautiful. “It’s like she was made for me.” 

Put the fork in me, folks, I’m done. 

You ABSOLUTELY WILL need to read City of Souls before reading this book. You will be lost otherwise. I’m calling it now, I can see Hel being on my list again this year of favorite heroines - what with all her badassery and such. 

Readers, welcome to the new episode of my show: Rae Waxes Poetic about Her Love of S.L. Praters Steamy Steampunk Works.

I know, I’m workshopping the title. 

For Prater’s second offering in the Fae Tricksters saga, King of Tricksters (KOT), I’m going to break from my usual review setup. This is just going to be a full out love fest of themes that I adored throughout. 

A Little Bit of Plot

Picking up directly after the events of Court of Tricksters, KOT continues with Rain literally clinging to life while Bernard and Night fight valiantly to save her. War is now fully on the horizon along with both a wedding and coronation. 

By taking up the crown, Night will be calling war upon the Mountain and Tree Court. Meanwhile, Rain's recovery unearths hidden memories that could mean the end of her relationship with Night. Separately, both the King and Queen attempt diplomacy but soon discover that there are factors larger than tariffs at stake. Will this pair find loyalty and trust through love? Or will these fated mates go their separate ways? (Cue Journey). 

All the Top Buns (The Pros)

One thing that I absolutely love about S.L. Praters books is the presence of strong, independent female characters. While these characters are badass and brave, they also love so deeply. The love they exhibit does not soften them, in fact, they often fight harder with more resolution to protect it. Whether it be Rain’s threat of violence for anyone not deferring to the King: 

There are too few useful men currently, and so I will refrain this time from hurting you for addressing your king inappropriately. Do it again, however, and I will carve name Frey Magis in your sword arm for you.

Messaged received Rain: Long live the King, got it. Check and fucking check. 

Or Sora Yagas fierce protection of her own mate, wherein which she’d willingly sacrifice others for his safety.

“Dragon hoards are full of traps and dangers.” Sora shook her head slowly. “I won’t risk my mate. If anything happens to me, he’s doomed to a slow death.”

Rain frowned, “but you’ll risk me and mine?”

“Yes,” Sora said without remorse.

Again, alright dude, loud and clear. We will fuck with you and yours, literally never. 

A major portion of this book is Night deciphering his feelings regarding the existence or love; moreover, if it does exist, is that what he's experiencing with Rain.

 For Rain, she’s very torn between love and loyalty. Which can be at times very conflicting. Again, her deep felt adoration for others does not detract from her warrior-like fierceness however. 

Another aspect of this book that I adore is Bernard. Literally the best side kick this side of Bucky Barnes. Side bar: at one point reading this I imagined having to discuss how babies were made with my Buchanan Sebastian Barnes (he’s a dog), in actual human english, and I laughed myself silly. 

Aren’t your babies baked in an oven? It’s what I’ve gathered from visiting the mother in the scullery. I’m not sure of the ingredients though. Meat? Blood? Squishy bits? And how long do you bake them for? And at what temperature? Must I add hair? I’d prefer that my baby remain bald.

Guys, I can’t..I literally can’t with this character.  He’s so freaking fierce, funny, and awesome. 

Bravo, Prater, for making this snide cat-like demon even more lovable. 

Along the same lines, I would also say that the growth of two of my favorite characters, Susan and Margot, is phenomenal in this book. As both are considered Rains family, they play a pivotal emotional role in her life. 

These two are very proudly proficient(?) sex workers, and have come up with a pretty great business model for themselves. Rain finally realizes that they’ve never wanted to  be ‘saved’ from their lives - it suits them just fine. 

 “See there, I told you Margot,” Susan grumbled. “Rain still has her heart set on rescuing us from our ways and turning us respectable.”

“Well, no…not exactly…I just…I want you both safe and happy is all”.

Margot grabbed her wrist and pumped it once affectionately. “We are safe and happy, silly”

“We’re not Penny, love..our life wasn’t for her, but she had little else to choose from…we’re cut from different cloth. Margot and I do what we do because we’re good at it and we enjoy it. We’re entrepreneurs”

Sex-trepreneurs. Trademarked. Slap it on the t-shirt. I’ve lost count at this point how many times I’ve screamed, ‘sex workers deserve health insurance’ on the podcast. Ladies doin’ it for themselves up in here. Overall, they’re down to earth and relatable characters just wanting to make some cheddar and take care of their own. No one can blame them. No one is casting aspersions, forcing Rain to make peace with the fact that they're as is. 

Lastly, I think I need to discuss my new segment, “When the Hero Ruined Me For All Men IRL”. Two instances in particular caused me to swoon hardcore for Night. 

Upon learning some pretty devastating news, his first move is to reassure Rain: 

“Stand up” he said gruffly. Rain hesitated. He crossed to her and extended his hand. “Stand up,” he said more gently.

Rain placed her fingers in his.

Grip brutal, he pulled her up to face him, chest to chest. “The queen of the Lunar Court kneels for no one. Understand?”

You can’t see it, but I’m snapping right now. Hardcore. 

The other standout section is after Nights' half brother, Erikson, has seen the error of his ways and apologizes for second guessing Rain’s loyalty. 

“I won’t doubt your instincts again, brother…” Erikson bowed low. “Frey Magis”.

That was the great difficulty, wasn't it? Doubt. He was finished with the emotion. The gnat-like thoughts could go straight to hell. “Doubt me all you like. But never doubt her.”

Isn’t that refreshing, ladies? To have someone in our lives for once never doubt us or our abilities? It’s almost impossible to believe that poor Night doesn’t understand how to love or be loved in return (oh god, did I just quote Moulin Rogue? ugh…) when he does it so well and so naturally. 

So much of this books’ plot lies in spoilertown;  therefore, I am doing my best to stick to the city limits here. I am comfortable saying that I adored this series and am sad to see this couple head off into forever with their HEA. 

You MUST read the first book or you will be very lost. And then when you’re done with this book, check out S.L’s entire catalog because they’re all absolute bangers, my friends. You want strong, independent, warrior women with men who have raised the bar off the floor by supporting them - any book in her oeuvre will fit the bill. 

I’m not a cryer.  At all. 

Like, I hate doing it. 

Which sucks because my eyes are perpetually dry and always tearing, up leaving me in a state of continual wet eyes. Like one of those gross little dogs that you have buy those 'angel tear' drops for. Maybe my eyes wouldn't be so dry if I got some.

But I am so adverse to reading stories where I know I’m going to bawl at some point. What’s the worst is when they sneak up on you like a damn serial killer and murder your tear ducts (you know who you are…). Knowing all this about me, I went into Veronica Wynne’s, debut novel, Meet Me At Home, well aware of the fact that this book was going to wreck me. 

I did this for you, dear readers... for you! Insert sacrificial lamb gif here. 

This book is not only beautifully written, smartly paced, and delightfully humorous at times, it’s also exceptionally moving. 

A Little Bit Of Plot

Two widows, (one more recently than the other), become roommates for financial and practicality reasons, and slowly fall in love. Kate, having just lost her husband, decides to rent out a room in her large home to pay the mortgage. Having just met Liam through friends, she offers the space as he, having lost his wife a few years previously, has moved back home and needs a place to land, so to speak. Through nights of bourbon and baseball Kate and Liam slowly gravitate to one another, evolving from strangers to friends to lovers. As both are at different points in their grieving processes, the path often stutter stops at times. Will both find the HEA in the place they’d least expect? (What do you think, it’s a romance, duh).

The Compliment Sandwich

Access to Grief

While most of us have lost someone close to us at some point in our lives, few will experience that loss at such a young age with their life partner. Not to put a category on different types of grief or to normalize what we should consider a ‘common shared’ experience; I imagine that losing someone we are building a life with and whom we rely on financially, emotionally, spiritually, etc, would be devastating and oftentimes debilitating. The same, I imagine, can be said for losing a child. 

For those of us who stay away from books that deal with loss of spouse for any number of reasons, this book allows us to experience a very real sense of loss without having suffered the trauma. While most don't necessarily look forward to this experience, I think it allows us to better  relate to one another and understand the individual emotional healing process better. Plus, big shout out to therapy! 

As most of you know, I’m a historical romance reader, and I can tell you that very few, if any, dealt with a widowed protagonist and have moved me like this book. I’m assuming that’s partially due to relatability and the modern lens we apply to them. I will say, however, that while we only meet both of the former spouses in flashback throughout the book, their losses permeate every interaction throughout. Here Liam describes the moment his wife passes: 

When she was sleeping, I made sure I touched her in some way so she’d know I hadn’t left. I’d put my feet up on the bed to rest against hers. I did that a lot when I was working—I could have both hands free, but she knew I was there.

I held her hand. Or rested my hand on her leg. 

The day she finally let go, I was reading to her. 

One moment, I was reading her favorite passage to her, and the next, the room was oddly silent. There wasn’t a telltale beeping like you’d see in a hospital drama. Even if there would have been monitors to beep, she had a DNR. Do not resuscitate. 

But it felt different to me. The air shifted somehow. 

Her face… Jill’s face looked different. Peaceful. 

And that’s when I realized she was gone. Completely, this time.

This book kicks you right in the feels right out the gate and doesn’t stop. So for those of us who do not have a significant other, we can still relate and feel the loss like it were our own. Which in the long run, is why we read, is it not? We want to experience something from another set of eyes, walk in someone else's shoes, etc… but without the actual bereavement. I know it’s a weird pro, but I think it’s something that stuck with me quite a bit. 

The Meat (The Con)

Please see first paragraph of this review.

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

Characters Making All the Right Decisions

Does it not frustrate you to read a novel and something goes unsaid or is misconstrued and -VOILA!- 3rd act breakup. We don’t have that same phenomenon here. Wynne crafts her story in a way that every time where a different author would zag, she continually zigs. (For this analogy, zigging is a good thing). 

In real life, we make the best decisions for ourselves every day. Very few times have I had massive relationship upsets due to miscommunication. If you are comfortable and trust one another, you talk things out or sometimes you choose the hard path because it’s where you need to be. The same with Kate. I’m singling her out as she has some of the absolute hardest decisions and where other authors would sacrifice her mental growth or coping journey, Wynne chooses what is realistically in her best interest. While we the reader are heartbroken at times, underneath we know that they’re the most emotionally healthy. You know, as Dumbledore would say, "we must choose between what is easy and what is right". Yeah, I just quoted Harry Potter, suck it, y’all. 

We also have two characters in VERY different points of grief. Why not fully healed (no one truly is), but in a more recovered situation than Kate, Liam is primed to make big definitive life decisions. However, at the same time, he meets this beautiful but broken person whose journey echoes his own. How can one traverse a relationship with someone, have that thrill of new love, but not completely push them into a relapse?  Ultimately, Liam also makes some magnanimous and healthy decisions that will infuriate some. 

Also, his wife had a terminal illness, therefore, he had more time to prepare. While I’m not saying that this makes her passing easier on him, he's been living with her death looming over them for longer and he’s moved through a few more stages in the grief cycle. 

Here Liam is describing his first Christmas living with Kate and coming home to her breaking down after having decorated the tree:

I quietly approach her, but not so quietly that I’d startle her and then lower myself to the floor next to her, lying down a couple of feet away from her.

I glance at her out of the corner of my eye and notice the lights reflecting off of wetness on her face, but I don’t point it out. This is her first holiday season without Nick and her wounds are fresher than mine. 

So I join her on the floor, looking up at the lights of the three. The lights don’t blink. They’re steady, bright and colorful. A perfect metaphor for what we both need right now, even if we aren’t asking for it. 

For a first time novel, this is absolutely gorgeous and composed with the skill of a seasoned writer. Even if angsty fiction isn’t your jam, I would still encourage you to take it on. It’s not overly contrived like many in the same genre. -Not naming names-

Shots fired, I know..fight me. 

Parting thought: All I can say is when you get to a certain scene with the letters, there won’t be freaking dry eye to be found.  Tissues at the ready, folks.

I have (im)patiently waited for the release of the final book in the Last Chance Scoundrels Series by Eva Leigh, and the day hath arrived, dear readers! If you’ll remember, I was absolutely obsessed with the second book in the Series, How the Wallflower Was Won. We featured it quite a bit on our ‘best of’ on last years anniversary show. So when offered the chance to finally meet the elusive, jilted bride and Finn/Kieran sibling, Willa, I squeed out loud! Just call me the whomping willow kids, because I was loving the pining of the main couple in A Rogues Rules for Seduction. 

A Little Bit of Plot

The Last Chance Scoundrels Series begins on the worst day of Willa Ransome’s life - being abandoned at the altar by Dom Kilburn, former dock worker turned ‘aristo’ and brother to Celeste, heroine of The Guide Girls Guide to Rakes. As a result of his decision to run, Dom, Finn, and Kieran were all tasked by their families to find suitable brides and marry within a year or they’ll be financially cut off. 

After a year abroad, attempting to heal a broken heart, Willa reenters society again by attending an unconventional country house party on a remote Scottish island . Dom is unknowingly coerced into attending the same event. With no way off the island, both Willa and Dom are subjected to a week in forced proximity. Will they find some middle ground or decide to remain apart? 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

The Lead Characters

I will admit that having met Dom in the previous two books, he never clicked with me. His gruff manner toward Tabitha in HWWW turned me off - but that was the point, I guess. since she’s now blissfully married to Finn. Therefore, having the opportunity get the full extent of the complex character that is Dom Kilburn, was quite enjoyable. As the epitome of the brooding enigmatic ‘silent type’ leading man, the reader can completely understand why the marriage between these two would never have worked before.

 To say that Dom is going through some things is an understatement. While I’m not going to share what these things are, I am confident enough to say that neither he nor Willa were in a ‘good place’ in regards to their sense of self. As the reader, you witness a character shift (for the better) for Dom that I don’t believe would have occurred without this year of separation. 

As for Willa, I’m in absolute love with her. I didn’t know at first what to expect. I was hoping she wasn’t a giggling debutante with a catty disposition. While the lady does have claws, her witticisms strike more like a sharpened blade - with precision and depth. All of which Dom deserves, and he knows this. 

As with Dom, Willa needed the year apart to discover what she wanted out of life - not as a miss of marriageable age, but a thinking, feeling person with needs and desires. Left on her own and ignored through most of her life, she felt as though she was performing for someone else - her parents, the ton, Dom… now she’s living for her. 

At one point in the novel, Dom stops referring to her as princess (which infuriated me..as it did Willa), giving her a completely different moniker. Lets just say It hits squarely in the feels - perfection. 

Calling her princess seemed right because that’s what she had been to him: regal and powerful.He’d glowed with pride whenever they had walked out together, and had loved seeing the wary and irate looks on the nobs’ faces whenever they clapped eyes on her on his arm. Except…she was more than that, and a throb of shame pierced him. He’d worshiped not Willa herself, but the idea of her.

The Meat (The Con)

The ending circled a little bit, but not enough to be distracting. I don’t really have much to say here, I wouldn’t change anything.

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

Dirty Talk

Holy cats. Holy freaking cow. I’m trying to think of other animal exclamations to use here. Holy Toledo! The dirty talk in this book. My eyeballs were sweating. I will also say that this has to be the steamiest of all three. 

While I say that and upon rereading my other reviews for the books in this series, I make that proclamation each time. 

I lost count of how many sex scenes we had. Literally, my brain stopped working for a time and was incapable of numbers. 

While we wait until almost 50% through to get a kiss, the remainder completely makes up for lost time. 

And when I said dirty talk, I didn’t just mean just Dom - Willa has quite the mouth on her too (twss). 

“If, in my absence, you’ve become such an expert in pleasuring yourself, I want to see your skill.”

He gaped at her. Surely, she didn’t mean…

“Do it,” she insisted. “You wanted me to use you - here I am. Using you. Take your cock out and make yourself spill while I watch.”

“Hell,” he growled, so excited he nearly came then and there.

“Now,” she ordered him. 

Damn, you get it girl. Make him beg and plead for it. 

This scene is honestly one of the hottest I’ve read outside of erotica. 

Let’s just finish that scene off, shall we…as Dom does:

“Let me hear you,” she whispered, as if knowing his battle.

“I’m very…loud.”

“Even better.”...

“Faster,” she urged…

“Do it,” she panted. “Bring yourself off while I watch.”

Also, there’s bondage. Which I will not spoil at all. Believe me, you will not be disappointed if dirty talk and steam are your bag. 

Lastly, I just wanted to thank Leigh for giving our former main couples so much screen time in this book. I fell in love with them so much, therefore, it was enjoyable to have small glimpses of them in perfect marital bliss while not belying what made us as readers fall head first in the first place. Celeste is depicted as being more free spirited and willing to be debauched (only by Kieran) and Tabitha enjoys the more unconventional pursuits from a ‘purely philosophical’ position while Finn wholeheartedly supports her. 

In summation, this is the last book in this series, however, Eva Leigh weaves all of her novels into the same shared universe so while these stories are tied up I believe this won’t be the last we see of the Last Chance Scoundrels. 

You all know me, I love Tracy Sumner books. She’s my new go to gal for steamy historical romances. If I want to read a novel where theres a high probability that someone is gonna get horizontal in a carriage - I know my girl, Tracy will not let me down. 

I have been jonesing for Dash and Theo’s story for some time now. So to say I was pretty excited about Two Scandals and a Scot, is underplaying it. I know Veronica would love it because it’s got the reformed rake, I love it because it features a Scottish hero and a bluestocking heroine plus a marriage of convenience. This hits all the notes, my friends! Buckle up, join hands…join the love train..love train…

A Little Bit of Plot

Ive loved 3 Theos in my life: 1. Huxtable, 2. Dear Theodosia from Hamilton, and 3. Theo(dosia) Astely, the bluestocking sister of the heroine from the Scandalous Vixen (see what Tracy did there with “scandals”…). 

Theo is in a pickle, she’s not in love with her intended and becomes even more so when his very pregnant mistress makes an appearance at their engagement ball. She moves from one scandal by starting another; fleeing in a stolen carriage, owned by former student and object of her (secret) affection, Dashiell Campbell. When the two are discovered, it’s wedding bells at dawn and a plan to not fall in love but definitely never leave  their marriage bed. As lust becomes much more, who will be the first to admit what they first thought was just heat burns brighter and much longer? 

Also, the fucking name Dash, amirite? Also, Dashiell? Both are panty burning, bruv.

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

The Leads

I could talk all day about how much I love both Dash and Theo. Sumner has two beautiful characters with tons of depth and an innate relatability. I’m not sure if this stems from both coming from the streets before finding wealth, but it works so well in allowing the reader to connect to both. 

I find sometimes it’s tough to relate to historical main characters because we are appending modern day sensibilities to them. I find it hard to find empathy  with a 21 year old woman whose never dressed herself sometimes and I’m supposed to believe that she has the wherewithal to make life altering decisions? Um, when I was 21, I remember the night I was at a bar, fell down some stairs and got angry because I tore the knee out of my Gap jeans. I, of course, sidled up to the bar, ripped the hold a bit wider, and continued partying. I was a bit more of a broad thinking woman. All I’m saying is that it’s a different world. 

So much of this book Dash tries to almost one up Theo on who had the more meager upbringing. You both win, Dash..they both sucked. Theo tries to impress upon him that he doesn’t need to flagellate himself, they can agree that both are in much better circumstances than ever before. 

“You’re a soft touch,” Theo whispered, laughter threading her voice. “Although you scared the wits from the boy. Threatening him with a duke. When I was born not five streets from the workhouse myself and don't deserve such special treatment.

And what can I say about Dash, in general, and his secret endearments to Theo? He’s been in love with her for years, but not willing to admit it. While she taught him to read and edited his first book, he pined for her. Yes, he couches it in lust, but there was much more there. 

We meet the two properly in The Wicked Wallflower, and I knew immediately that Dash would be my next book boyfriend. Here is “The Moment in the Book the Hero Ruined Me for All Men IRL” @chicklitbookclubpodcast:

“I ken it’s your bloody birthday.” Taking her arm none too gently, he hauled her down the passageway to a little-used parlor. It was filled, floor to ceiling, with books. Stacks and stacks of them. The room smelled of leather spines and moldy pages, her favorite scents in the world. “Today was the day I set to take my courting to another level, after giving your stormy temper time to calm. No more mooning from afar like a tormented hero in a shilling novel.”

Also, he’s Scottish so he automatically wins ALL the points. Hello!

The Meat (The Con)

I knew that we were too happy at 50% through. That’s all I’m gonna say.

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

Good God Damn, this book is HOT.

One thing Tracy Sumner is excellent at and that’s writing her books as hot as a forest fire on the sun. I read some idiot person complaining about the sex scenes -  fine, not for you, but more for me, man. This couple takes their time..sexy by sexy bit... eventually breaching the castle (so to speak). Leading up to the pièce de résistance however, we are treated to a lot of loin scorching goodness.

What’s most amazing about these scenes is that Theo takes charge a majority of the time.  She’s not afraid to voice her likes and dislikes. She’s inquisitive and brilliant, therefore, this wouldn’t change once clothes were removed. Plus, if you have a sexy Scot in your bed... Can me Bill Nye, cuz we're experimenting, baby...

As they are waiting to be married, Dash has an impromptu meeting with Theo to assure her that what's between is more than convenience,  that he’s lusted after for many years. 

“I want you, lass. I couldn’t allow you to walk down that aisle thinking I dinnae. That I’m forced into this, when no one’s forcing…This gamble comes down to you and me. Right here, right now.”

Theo drew a breath, meaning to tell him she wanted him, too.

But his hand was trailing along her spine, leaving a path of sensation behind it. His fingertips burning through layers of satin, silk, and cotton. His lips gliding along her jaw and settling a sensitive spot beneath her ear. His whisper swirled inside as he bit her earlobe, turning her leg to butter. “The wicked things I’ve dreamed of doing to you, leannan. Going back to our time battling my book across that desk. I’m starting to think, from the way we spark off each other, starting wee fires, you’ve thought them too”

Yes she has, Dash. Just look at you, man!

And she’s just as enthusiastic as he is when it comes to reciprocation: 

When she tunneled past his drawers and her breath hit his shaft, he wrapped his fingers around the chair’s spindles until his knuckles popped. His hips lifted, a deadly sign, as her tongue met his swollen crown. Tentative, she was not. The metal of his ring was cool where it grazed him. Thank the gods, her touch was gentle. He could handle himself for a time if she kept to this pace.

Aye, but then she didn’t keep the pace.

Readers, what I’m saying is that if you want a steamy, sexy read with absolutely realistic and relatable characters falling in love, look no further! I think this is a stand alone, although it would be helpful to understand the side characters better. 

One character that I’m so enthralled to learn more about is Jasper Noble. I cannot wait until his book. Until then, I say check out Tracy’s entire catalog, there will be something for everyone!

If you’ve listened to the podcast you know how much I love the 1997 romantic comedy, The Matchmaker; even forcing friends (and future podcast co-host) to a viewing. When I read the description of Catherine Walsh’s newest Irish Romantic Comedy, aptly titled, The Matchmaker, it hit all the right notes with me and I knew it was going to be a knock outta the park - and I was not disappointed. While It held a very tangental similarity to the 97 film, I was intrigued for sure.

Hold onto your tatties, readers, and let's get into this.

A Little Bit Of Plot

Katie Collins loves life in her small Irish hometown of Ennisbawn; what she doesn’t love so much is the country club overtaking all that she holds dear. With the construction comes new persons to their small town, one being Callum Dempsey, handsome project manager for Glenmill construction. For Callum, being ambushed by a crazed but striking woman in a night cream facemask on a construction site might be a terror to any other man, for him, it’s like being struck on the head by love. From her duckie print pajamas and her need for sleep to grow her bones, he’s quite taken. When Glenmill threatens to bulldoze Kelly’s bar, the town’s community meeting spot and Katie’s place of employment, she finds the solution is the resurrection of the yearly Ennisbawn Matchmaking Festival. Will Katie's plan to foil Glenmill's destruction of the pub she holds dear keep these two apart, or is it the one thing that brings them closer?

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

The Love Story

The romance between Katie and Callum is subtle and lovely. The story doesn’t bash you over the head with how they’re fated to be together, or that it’s a raging enemies to lovers (I know, I know, I couldn’t believe it either), this is just a simple, "two people are instantly attracted and naturally fall in love" scenario. We have a pretty HUGE GG about halfway through the book, so the HEA is never really in question here. While this couple is securely ensconced with one another very early on in this book with the exception of a small speed bump at about the 30% mark, the love story doesn’t completely overwhelm the plot of the book.

Their relationship is important, sure, but it’s not central to the major plot points, like what any good rom com film of its ilk. What’s Bridget Jones without Bridget at some point gaining some confidence in herself or You’ve Got Mail without Kate discovering who she is outside of a bookstore owner? The same applies here. We discover that Katie is much more than her grandmother’s carer, a bartender, or a best friend. She’s never been challenged before and Callum steps up to help not rescue her. The story's progression feels so natural and immersive, the reader is charmed by the realness of the town - as if it were an actual place we can visit. Again one of the reasons that I was immediately attracted to the story was it's similarity to the movie the Matchmaker - an outsider coming into a town during a matchmaking festival and falling in love.

Although much less Dennis Leary… thank fuck for that. Weirdly, the same amount of Janeane Garofalo.

The Meat (The Con)

Honestly, I don’t have much to say. This is such a low stakes read and it moves quick - I don’t have any complaints.

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

Slice of Life

If you are looking for a beautifully written slice of life irish comedy, with love and some sexy times thrown in, this is the book for you. Walsh’s writing is both witty and at times very resonant. I laughed quite a bit while reading this and some scenes I could feel in my bones as if I lived them. Walsh has a way of writing Katie that feels familiar, as if I know her or could even be her. So much so that when she’s broken at one point, it echos.. as if this were real life and happening to someone close to me.

Walsh also has the ability to voice characters in such a realistic manner that it doesn’t matter what the age of the person in question, their dialogue is believable and relatable. As readers, we know someone in our lives that we can imagine fitting into the Noah role, or Gemma, or Granny.

And while we’re on the subject of Granny Collins… if you don’t laugh at this exchange, we can never be friends:

“Is this you?” I ask, holding up a black and the picture of a grinning young woman.

“Should be,” Granny says, peering at it. “Ugly little thing, wasn’t I?”

“Would you stop!” I laugh, “You’re beautiful.”

“And you’re a liar. But that’s alright. It didn’t stop your grandfather from falling in love with me. I had other attributes.”

“Your charming personality?”

“That,” she says, “And I was very loose”.

Holy shit, that’s funny. And super relatable. In fact, I know I had the same or similar conversation with my own grandmother at some point in my life.

I also want to include the point in the book that Callum ruined me for other men. Maybe I’m going note that with every book I read going forward “this is where the H ruined me for IRL men”.

“So why are you telling me this?”

“I don’t know. Maybe I don’t like what we’re doing here. Or maybe I’m just bored and want to stir the pot.” Callum’s gaze snags on mine, and the feel of it is so intense that I almost look away. “Or maybe,” he continues, “It’s because I don’t know how I’m going to tear down your favorite place in the world when I can barely stand the thought of you getting caught in the rain”.

There’s a strange pang in my chest, one that hurts in the best kind of way. Green eyes, I decide. I like men with green eyes and men who look at me like that.

Get you a man that says that shit on the reg, bruv.

In summation, this book is brilliant, and I’m excited to delve into more Catherine Walsh.

Its been a while (🎵It’s been a while…) since I’ve written a review and I’m so happy this is the first one back. I devoured this book like a little kid with their easter basket. To give you some context, I had gotten up at 3am to drive 10.5 hours on vacation (this is not a math problem, I promise) and ended up reading until 2 am to finish - I needed to know what was going to happen. Just call me Shark Tank, cuz I was INVESTED. And I wasn’t disappointed, for Martha Water’s, To Swoon and to Spar, the fourth of the Regency Vows series definitely delivered. 

A Little Bit of Plot

Jane Spencer has lived the majority of her life alone; and for the most part, shes happy, or so she thinks. Being extremely shy and without companions, she’s unhappy with the prospect of being foisted on at her guardian, but then being transferred (a la cattle) to the property of her future husband. If it were up to her, she’d live out the rest of her life at Trethwick Abbey alone with just the servants for company. When facing the possibility of becoming another mans property by way of marriage, Jane devises a plan to force her new husband to run screaming back to London...with a haunting.

Viscount Penvale, Peter Bourne, has desired only one thing in his entire life - reclaiming his birthplace, Trethwick Abbey. Luckily, his uncle has given him the means in which to achieve this - by marrying his ward, Jane Spencer. Through marriage, Penvale will be given the opportunity to purchase the abbey from his tetchy uncle. After a not so even somewhat favorable meet-cute, the pair decide to marry. Penvale believes his personal life will not change while his martial status does; he doesn’t even need to converse with his new wife until its time to get horizontal and start making some heirs. The best laid plans, right? 

When the wailing starts, however, any idea of blissful domesticity flies out the window. What happens when ghost hunting leads to kissing and suddenly the abbey starts feeling much more like home for both? 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

Jane Freaking Spencer

Having myself at one time, been a shy person - I feel Jane's plight so much. To this day, I am extroverted when needed (I mean, have you heard the podcast?) but mostly, I’d rather just sit inside reading if possible. It doesn’t mean that I don’t get lonely; which is the same conundrum that Jane experiences. While the thought of a giant house to herself in which she can read all day sounds great on paper - the reality is much more stark and quiet. Plus, once she gets a view of Penvales bare forearms, a lifetime alone doesn’t sound so great.  Red Alert Readers: This book has major forearm porn.

What I really enjoyed about her character is that while being shy she’s not afraid to stand up for herself. The relationship between her and Diana, Penvale’s sister, is contentious at best. The pair begin on the wrong foot with an overheard hurtful statement, Jane is determined to always have the upper-hand when it comes to her overbearing and obnoxious sister-in-law, and I love that for her. 

“Miss Spencer,” Diana interjected, is something wrong? Have you been brought here today against your will? Should I summon the authorities?”

Miss Spencer regarded Diana coolly. “Is this your usual strategy when meeting potential wives for your brother? To speak to them so bluntly that they are shocked and scamper off like frightened little mice?”

Penvale bit his lip, suddenly possessed of the strangest desire to laugh. It wasn’t often that Diana encountered a woman who seemed utterly unintimidated by her, and it was even rarer to find this trait in a lady who was several steps down from Diana on the social ladder. 

Now, I don’t know what this says about Penvale that he gets a bit turned on by Jane’s antagonism of his sister, but either way, I’m here for it. You have so many instances in this book of Diana pushing others around, that it’s so refreshing when Jane is unable to be swayed. 

In contrast, with servants she’s soft and almost caring, and with strangers she’s meek and shy; however, she employs an iron spine when needed. Upon her first visit to the local village as Lady Penvale, she finds herself out of her element as Peter is much more adapt at approaching and speaking to strangers. At times, she finds herself standing back and not contributing to conversations until she meets the local schoolmistress, Miss Trevelyan and finds she might be able to lend her a hand.

“I have a number of books from my own childhood that I saved and brought with me to Cornwall, Jane said, the words tumbling out of her mouth before she realized what was happening. “I would be more than happy to bring them to you on my next visit to the village, if you would like them.”

“Thank you, Lady Penvale, that would be most welcome.”

Jane felt oddly…pleased. It was nice, she reflected, to feel as though she had something to offer someone. Something to contribute. And, even though she could not bring herself to admit it, equally nice was the flash of a smile, bright and fleeting, that Penvale gave her over his shoulder.

:Sigh: Penvale…he’s so sweet. Y’all while I love an alpha male from time to time, the betas are much more enjoyable. They’re like beavers, and mate for like, bruv. 

The Meat (The Con)

Diana

Diana was also my meat for the third book in this series, To Marry and to Meddle, and she’s worse in this book. I have no desire to read her book in the slightest. She’s loud, overbearing, and just plain mean to her ‘friends’ and loved ones. And let’s not get started on her relationship with poor Jeremy, her husband. 

“Diana, I do not understand why you treat drinks with such reckless abandon.”

“For heaven’s sake…I threw a drink at you one time, Jeremy”

“And I probably deserved it..”

Jeemus tapdancing crisps, this sounds like a battered husband situation. Diana is a friggin’ terror - who would want to have sex with this harpy on a regular basis? 

While playing a ‘friendly’ game of cricket, Diana finds the need to bellow orders at her fellow participants.

“West!” Diana yelled from where she stood a few feet away, her arms crossed over her chest. “Focus! We need you to make up for the fact that Jane’s utterly hopeless.”

“I can’t even work myself up to being offended,” Jane said. 

“Jane!” Diana barked. “You should be practicing!”

Penvale shot his sister an exasperated look, but before he could tell her to shove off, Jane raised herself onto an elbow and fixed Diana with a hostile glare. 

Seriously speaking, if I had a friend like this, I could only take her in small doses. Honestly, I'd never get close to someone like Diana. She seems like a bully, and I have no time for someone this personality. She's so self absorbed, I don’t know if she truly becomes invested in the relationships she builds with those close to her. I’m assuming the last book in this series will be West and Sophie, which I’d be excited to read, but I’ll cringe through the parts with Diana. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

The Bantery Slow Burn

Waters really builds the relationship between Jane and Peter throughout the novel, we don’t get action until almost 60% through the book. The wait is worth it though. Both parties have a lot to work through to arrive at this point. I wouldn’t necessarily call this an enemies to lovers story, more indifferent parties to lovers. 

It is established throughout the novel that Penvale is in need of glasses, although he continuously denies it and Jane ribs him about it constantly. Conversely, he always catches Jane frowning at him, as if it were her true feelings for him showing themselves, which he teases her about. At one point, after a playfully heated exchange, she bets that if he actually reads a novel he’ll enjoy it while he disbelieves her. While I’ll not share the terms of the bet nor the novel itself, we get this lovely exchange, when Jane comes across him having read the wagered upon work. 

“It’s a dreary day,” he hedged, “Awful weather. Can’t get anything done outdoors.” 

(A quick glane out the window assured Jane that she had not lost her senses entirely and that it was, indeed, still a bright sunny spring day.)

“Of course,” she agreed solemnly. 

“My study is terribly dark and chilly, you understand,” he added.

(His study was, in fact, warmed by a fire and had the benefit of an almost unseemly number of candles and lamps.)

“Frightful,” she said, nodding.

“My eyes were struggling to read the fine print in some documents my solicitor sent me, so I thought to give them a rest.”

(He must truly be desperate for an excuse if he was willing to risk her suggesting he get spectacles, she thought.)

“By… reading something else?” she inquired.

“The text is larger.”

(The text was quite small). 

This whole exchange reminds me of moments from the show, Arrested Development, when Ron Howard as the narrator would break in and contradict the storyline. It was genius then and works so well here to give credence to the warming a playful relationship these two build. 

We also have the subplot with the haunting occurring as a means, in a way, of bringing these two together. While Peter is not as ‘on board’ as many other heroes would be, this definitely is not an instalove, he’s more apt to at least attempt to get to know his wife - she's doesn't have the same inkling. I haven’t read an overly just ‘good’ hero in a while. He’s not domineering, but forgiving, sensitive, while being slightly expecting at times. Waters has a knack for writing interesting male characters. For instance, I’m enthralled with Jeremy, he's funny, thoughtful, and charming...I just wish he wasn’t connected to Diana. I’m also looking forward to what she does with the last unattached male in the party, West. 

Overall I would wholeheartedly recommend this book as a standalone read. I would also recommend To Marry and to Meddle. I have not read the first book as I am not interested in a story in which the h tricks the H by faking a fatal illness, no thank you. And you know my feelings about the second. 

Is Winter getting you down? Is SADD kicking your proverbial butt? Do you need a sweet, quick, little pick me up when it’s too cold to venture out into the frozen tundra that is the outdoors? Well, look no further friends, I have  the book for you! If you love Pride and Prejudice (in any of it’s film forms), throw in a little opposites attract, and a next door neighbors (sort of) trope, I’m Not Charlotte Lucas by Kasey Stockton will delight and warm your heart cockles quite profusely. 

A Little Bit Of Plot

Charlotte (Charlie) Lucas is in a bid of a rut; she refuses to become like her literary namesake and settle for whatever Mr. Collins comes her way while also looking for a reprieve from her very boring bank job. Enter, Liam, the grandson of her lovely neighbor Vera who needs a lady on his arm for an upcoming society ball. After reluctantly agreeing to the blind date, Charlie quickly realizes two things: Liam is out of her league (her words) and he has just gotten out of a relationship with one of the most famous actresses in America. Considering the date to be a one off, Charlie is surprised to learn that Liam is serious...about her. Will this Charlotte Lucas get shuffled off to Rosings with stodgy old Mr. Collins or will she finally get her Mr. Darcy? 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

Very Low Stakes

Everyone who has either read my reviews or listened to the podcast knows I hate angst. I don’t mind a 3rd act breakup; but if you kill off an important character or separate the main couple for years on end..you’re dead to me. I mean it - I'm not sending flowers, not singing Ave Maria at the service, not even reading a dirty limerick at your wake...we are done-ski's. Therefore, I was so relieved to find that angst level in this novel stayed a low simmer.

I read this while suffering with my second bout of Covid (insert gif of that little girl crushing the pop can angrily); therefore,I needed the pick me up that this novel delivers in droves. While there are some low stakes angst moments in the 3rd act (as per uzhe) this isn’t going to wreck your day. You’ll throw your fist to the sky and say “DON’T BE SO BLIND!” but it's a considerably small blip in the lifetime of a whole relationship. 

The Meat (The Con)

The Grand Gesture

I know I may be in the minority on this one, but if Liam pulled on me what he does to Charlie, I’d spray paint his car. She has absolutely every right in the world to be angry at him for his GG. In fact, I think she should have made him wait it out a little bit longer afterwards. Let him stew. Some are going to say, "but Rae, isn't it sweet that he believed in her.." SURE, FINE..but boundaries, dude!

That being said, this leads me to my...

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

Liam

Stockton has written an absolutely delightful hero with Liam. I know I referenced Mr. Darcy above, but the more I think about it, I’d characterize him more as a Mr. Bingley. He’s not moody or introspective like Darcy, he’s gregarious and outgoing. He’s not shy in his attentions towards Charlie. From jumpstreet, he’s extremely vocal about his attraction to her, even as she dates another man - not in a domineering way but in a “I’m going to let you do you but I know we are meant to be..”. It’s quite charming and not stalkery like some novels will portray an invested hero. 

Liam is there to pick up the pieces when her relationship doesn’t pan out and is the voice of reason as she continually makes the worst decisions regarding her love life. 

In talking about her previous (and possibly restarting) relationship: 

”Maybe the timing was wrong. Maybe I wasn’t ready to commit. Maybe I didn’t think we had the right chemistry”

“Maybe he’s an idiot for letting you get away in the first place.”

I couldn’t help it. I looked up. Liam was watching me, but the amusement was gone from his eyes. He looked serious, like this mattered. 

Liam is constantly having to convince Charlie that she’s worth more than a last minute or forgotten date, she has more to give the world than her boring bank job (nothing wrong with working in a bank), and that she’s boxed herself into what she deems ‘good enough’ for her life. 

After a heartbreaking scene with her then boyfriend, Liam consoles Charlie:

His hand came around my own, large, warm, and capable, and I trembled from the bolts of electricity shooting straight up my arm. 

“You owe him nothing,” he said, his voice reaching the depths of my soul. “You never owe a man anything. And don’t let anyone convince you otherwise”. 

Good gracious, Mr. Bingley, indeed. I need every woman and girl to read that last quote from Liam. Tattoo it everywhere - write it on walls: You never owe a man anything. 

All in all, if you are looking for a sweet, quick, read with lots of humor, and a deep love of the 1995 and 2005 film versions of Pride and Prejudice, it's all right here!

I feel like every time I review an SL Prater book I’m restating the same things: amazing characterization, wonderful world building, enchanting descriptions, super hot sexy times, etc. And let me just say, her latest release, Court of Tricksters (Fae Tricksters #1), is no exception. How she manages to weave figures from folklore within our real world with such normalcy blows my mind. I’d be remiss if I didn’t talk about her writing, it’s gorgeous and effective while, at times, extremely comical.

 S.L. girl, you on fire. 

A Little Bit of Plot

When the fae Duke of Night (aptly named Night) discovers his fated mate in the wild fae woman of the woods, Rain, he will do whatever it takes to make her his. After centuries alone living amongst the trees and wildlife, Rain craves the bond with Night but believes herself too lowly to stand at his side. Also, to take her place as duchess would mean facing another war and she’s seen too much bloodshed. Will Night convince Rain that his need for her is as vital as what she feels for him? Can they find common ground? 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

The Characterization

Guys, I fell in love with a cat. 

:Awkward Silence...Authorities Called:

Well, not a cat perse, but more of a demon cum familiar (twss) cat-type being. I don’t know how she made me fall, but she did. 

Bernard, the former hell demon turned cat familiar of our heroine, Rain, is a delight. His Garfield-esque delight in overeating and similar need to seek vengeance on their attackers is quite endearing.

You’ll have to excuse me for a second while I describe the what I imagined when reading this dialogue: 

Bernard flapped his ebony sings overhead. Do you want me to shit on his hat? 

Rain repressed a snort. You probably shouldn’t. 

Are you sure? I’ve cleaned out most of an ice box. I’ve plenty of ammunition. 

This may be the covid talking (yes, I have covid, again dammit), but I envisioned the Salem cat puppet from Sabrina the Teenage Witch

Buckle up, guys. I’m so delighted, I want to swoon to high heavens. I am in love and his nameth Giles Sinclair. Well, lets be honest, I’m pretty much in love with Diana Meriwell too. Have no idea what I’m talking about? Well let me enlighten you. Meet the hero and heroine of Virginia Heath’s sophomore release of her Meriwell’s Sisters series, Never Rescue a Rake. There aren’t many regency era, enemies to lovers, mystery-tinged, independent bluestocking and reformed rake books I don’t like, but damn, did I love this one. 

And I’m gonna say it, Virginia did it, I didn’t think she could.. but had faith…I’ll get to that later. 

A Little Bit of Plot

Giles and Diana snipe and sneer constantly, to the almost vexation of everyone. Their friends and family have begun to suspect that the constant bickering and insults are hiding something more, an attraction that neither can ignore anymore. Diana wishes to never be held down by a husband, allowing herself the freedom to continue employment as a famous investigative journalist writing under a male nom de plume. Giles' ducal days are coming to end as his ‘dirty secret’ is  threatened to be revealed. When her keen intellect and detective wiles are needed, can Giles trust Diana not only with his livelihood and freedom, but also his heart? 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

The Banter

When I say these two bicker and snipe like children, I’m not overexagerrating. I'd go as far to say it's a meet-hate when they first set eyes on each other. It’s like game meeting game. They’re so similar that they actually repel one another. Both are hiding: he, saddled with a huge secret to his parentage that could have legal ramifications, and her, writing under an assumed name as to not bring ruination on her reputation or her family. When they are together, however, the barbs tossed between the two are amazing: 

“ I would have washed my hands of the chore of you last winter - but alas…you continue to linger on the periphery of my life like a bad smell”

And...

Giles like to think he was always the canniest person in any room and several paces ahead of the crowd - but shewas always hot on his heels. Or more often, he trailed on hers. “Hardly a surprise when you rarely make any sense at the best of times, either. You do know I only tolerate you on sufferance because my best friend married your sister, don’t you? Although it is still a mystery to me why he aligned himself with such a bunch of lowly commoners”

The more you get to know both characters, these interactions become even more endearing, as you can imagine them being delivered with light quippy inflection - their intention to annoy rather harm. 

“If anyone needs the benefit of some beauty sleep it is you.”

“You need significantly more beauty sleep than me. Although, to be frank, even if you slept for a week you’d still look a fright.”

Sarcasm and banter is their love language. Even when declaring their love for one another, they still take jabs here and there. 

I will say, we have another instance of the #fallsfirstfallshard hero. In the midst of his life completely falling apart while Diana frantically attempts to keep everything together with sellotape, Giles falls irrevocably in love. We see it building quickly for him in this novel, but he admits it to himself and out loud leagues before her. 

“But if I could ask..” He had no idea why he felt compelled to be honest but couldn’t seem to stop. “If the chaotic mess of my life were miraculously gone and my ruination and scandal didn’t loom on the horizon like the Grim Reaper…if I were in a position to ask anybody to spend eternity with me, it would be you, Diana”.

Oh lord, and the nicknames.. Goddess of the Hunt and Hunter of the Truth, Nitpicking Grammarian, Fearless Kicker of Hornets ... I just can't with him. 

Giles is such a good man. His true upset over possibly losing his title and inheritance is so noble and benevolent. And he's constantly hiding his true self - similar to Hugh in the first novel. Both men with rakish pasts but good hearts. Honestly, I am so happy to discover the true Giles in this book as I wasn’t overtly enamored with him in Never Fall for your Fiance, but that’s the point, isn’t it? 

The Meat (The Con)

I enjoyed the underlying mystery that weaves throughout the book, however, I would have liked a bigger reveal a little sooner. The ending felt very rushed. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

Redemption!

I don’t know why I didn’t trust Virginia Heath to do her thang. I will admit, like a damn adult, that the youngest Meriwell sister, Vee (Venus) was the con of the last book. At one point, both Hugh and Giles want to send her packing as she’s obnoxious and snotty. You know…a teenager. In this book, we’ve got an almost adult Vee bonding with the supportive, stable, and loving family built with Minerva, Hugh, and Hugh’s parents. They’ve taken all Meriwell sisters into their lives and are raising them almost like adoptive parents. We see real growth in her character. 

I was extremely worried as she plays a HUGE role the last half of the book. But we find that she’s intelligent, witty, courageous, and has come to terms with the destruction their deadbeat father left in his wake. In one rather humorous scene, Vee blindly defends both Diana and Giles by outing a trespasser

“Arms flailing and nightdress billowing like a ghostly apparition, Vee hit something slid with a thud before she plunged into some shrubbery. Giles got to the scene firstand stared, because the youngest, and usually the most sedate Merriwell had turned into a raging banshee. One who had used naught but all four of her limbs to pin a wide-eyed and petrified young man face up on the ground. 

‘Who are you and what do you want!’ Spectacles askew and murder in her eyes, she bellowed in his face before Giles stepped in and unpeeled her.”

We are also introduced to who I am assuming will be her love interest in the last of this series. I’m not spoiling it, but you can see the seedling of something between these two – definitely a simmering chemistry or at least acknowledgement of interest. 

I wish I could go on for about 10 more pages about Giles and both his love of Diana and his nobility to do the right thing in every situation throughout the book. An unexpected hero but a dashing one, nonetheless. Diana’s pretty amazing herself. Would definitely recommend this book wholeheartedly. Come for the banter, stay for the chemistry. 

Why are enemies to lovers romance novels like catnip? Is it the prolonged animosity and sexual tension? Is it the push and pull of a Sam & Diane (young people, google it) ‘will they/won’t they’? Do I really secretly want someone to perform martial arts against at night? Could it be any or all of these things? Possibly. Research is still out. 

Although, let's be honest, if I'm referencing Cheers, my body is probably past the point of doing anything strenuous past 11pm (unless it’s, you know, the sexual arts…okay, i just creeped myself out on that one). 

This week, I ventured into a contemporary paranormal fantasy based in Wellington, New Zealand. As I don’t know much about New Zealand outside of the Hobbit and Dead Alive, I wasn’t sure how this was all going to mesh, but baby, it did. We have a enemies to lovers, immortal magic, and amazing paranormal steamy romance in Mel Harding-Shaw's, City of Souls (Soul Court Ascension #1). 

A little bit of plot…

There’s something about Hel. Something…special. As a indebted bounty hunter Hel hopes each job will bring her closer to freedom - then she’s splitsville. Believed by those around her to be human, she cloaks her magic, attempting to blend in and seem normal.. Well, she's a bit of a killing machine, so, maybe a bit above average normal. 

Bastion is the winged elemental tasked with protecting the entire city. A contagion is spreading, the only answers can be found with a mysterious beast that moves undetected by almost everyone…except Hel. Unfortunately for Bastion, he needs Hel’s help (alliteration!) and she is unwilling to give it - unless he can provide her the one thing she wants most in this world. 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

The World Building

Literally, I can’t even with this book. The descriptions of the cityscape and the war torn and decayed long ago decrepit fixtures are amazing. We start the book traversing through what is described as an abandoned metropolis that nature has begun to reclaim, but it’s no nature that we living in 2022 has ever experienced - giant spider like creatures, huge griffons, hell beasts, literal immortal beings with wings. Conversely, Bastions sanctuary-like tower stands like a beacon in the midst of what I imagine is like Gotham city mixed with the friggin’ Road Warrior. 

“The humans used to call it the Majestic Centre and it was the tallest building in the city, tall enough that it should have succumbed to aerial attack long ago. Instead, the elementals had saved it from destruction in the first hours after the Melding, reinforcing every pane of glass with the impossibly strong and intricate metalwork only their magic could produce until it looked like a soaring sculpture of leadlight stained glass. At night, the coloured lights that tipped those posts made it look like jewels on its crown. Under attack, the entire building would light up like a beacon of death magic”

In addition to the landscapes, Shaw’s description of magic and how it flows is also fantastic: 

“The thinnest line of silver ringed his pupil, matching the sparks of magic dancing across his wing surface. Death magic. The same sparks she could still feel twining through her power like a caress.”

Disguised as a human, Hel attempts to control her responses in this first interaction with Bastion. To say that this fails is an understatement. In fact, the melding of their power, in this brief encounter, bothers him. Confused as to why his power is reacting to a human, he demands she meet with him. 

“The gentle play of their magic against each other that Hel hadn’t noticed had slipped from her control turned jagged as she watched his anger transform to something darker”.

The more they work together the stronger their magics entwine. Theres so much more I would love to quote but I don’t want to give too much away. Not that this is a very ‘twisty’ story, I just think that you should discover certain aspects of their magic and why they resonate so well on your own! 

Get off my back, people!

The Meat (The Con)

I’m going to make this short and to the point. The buildup is great but I needed something to hold me over before the event finally comes (lol). If you know, you know. Still, effin hot. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

Hel and Bastion’s Chemistry 

The connection between these two characters is fraught with animosity and sexual tension. They reminded me a little of Bones and Catherine from Halfway to the Grave. As with Bones, Bastion needs the hellion of a heroine to perform a dangerous job, but can’t keep his hands off of her, which leads to much self-flagellation (mhmmm). Hel is similar to Catherine in the sense that she is forced to work with her sworn enemy and yet can’t stop her hands from wandering too. Wandering hands are the devils playthings y’all. I don’t think I got that adage correct, I don’t care. Print up the new shirt - post it on Threadless. 

“Just kiss me already, necromancer.”

He lost his remaining control as she gripped his hair tight enough to sting and pulled him to her, crushing her lips to his as a week of sexual frustration boiled over. Power surged between them through their connection along with a rush of shared sensation. He could feel the same tension he was suffering, the same unwelcome lust, mirrored in her essence.

I’ve said it on the podcast, and I’ll say it again. You get that one crazy person you know you shouldn’t be boinking but you know it’s gonna be the best/kinkiest sex of your life so you go for it. Then, voila! Once you hit it, you’ll never quit it. Now imagine that both you and the other person have crazy magical powers, one of you can literally manipulate souls, and you'll understand the magnetism. But alas, you hate one another. But you want to bite each other. But you want to throw him off a roof. But her scent intoxicates him. Ugh, hate boners are the worst!

I was literally trying to think of another tv couple with this type of bellicosity, and I just kept regurgitating 80’s programming. I am either too old or don’t watch enough tv..or both. Spike and Buffy? Does that work? That’s at least late 90’s early 00’s. 

Lastly, Bastion gifts something to Hel to publicly display his claim (I didn’t mention they have to be in a fake relationship) that when it is revealed,  I literally gasped. I won’t give it away, but it weaves their magics together even further and provides an even stronger connection between their life forces. You will love it. Ugh, I’m thinking about it and getting verklempt. 

Anywho, to close out, I would definitely recommend. Be aware that it is book 1 of 3 so there is a cliffhanger. I immediately wanted to delve into the next one - but alas, I will wait with everyone else. I am in fidgity anticipation as to how the Hel-ion saga continues. 

My friends, can I tell you that the moment I received notification that I’d been approved for the new S.L. Prater installment in the Witches Ever After series ARC, Of Roses and Rituals, I may have done a little butt dance in my chair whilst in a work meeting. To be fair, I wasn’t needed at that point during the conversation, however, I was a waste for the remainder of it. Let’s not play -  steamy steampunk books with retelling of famous fairy tales always trumps public education. 

Come on! (I kid, I kid).

Back in April of this year, S.L. was gracious to join us on the podcast as we reviewed her first book in this series, Of Heists and Hexes. I’ve been excited since THEN. Boys and girls, this new installment did not disappoint. In the past few months I have fallen down a supernatural romance rabbit hole, and I’m not sure this Alice is ready to come back to reality. Of course, in one of steamy paranormal romances nowadays, Alice would just fuck the white rabbit instead of even encountering the Red Queen…wait…isn’t that what happened with the SYFY miniseries, Alice? Note to self…check out where I can stream this.

Nevermind! Back on track!

Like Heists and Hexes, Of Roses and Rituals, is a retelling of a popular fairy tale, this time, a reimagining of Beauty and the Beast. Sigh. I remember reading somewhere that the Beast was a figure in a lot of young people’s sexual awakening. I think it’s because of the tight breeches and big thighs… probably the tongue too, it’s always the tongue. 

Our ‘beastly’ figure here is Dr. Elias Van Doorn. Eli, having been cursed to become a half man/half beast in order to save an ENTIRE CITY (sorry I thought that needed emphasis), now lives in isolation with his scientific work and sporadic heroic demon slaying. Beauty, or Fiona Boaz, daughter or Erin and Ren Boaz, both professors and he Chancellor at Kriegspiel University, has been a bit precarious with her life as of late. Her father, in fear that she’s become too complacent, sends her to Eli as an research assistant in the hopes that she’ll begin to truly contribute to the academic field in which she has chosen to work. While both Fiona and Eli butt heads, they can’t deny the almost electric attraction. As both have grief stricken pasts, will their shared journeys lead to healing and eventually love? Yes, I mean..duh. I ask that question all the time yet I know the answer.

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

Guys, guys, guys, guys…it’s a #fallfirstfallshard hero book! This trope is gaining favor with me quite rapidly; it’s right up there with enemies to lovers and marriage of convenience. Eli is knockout, dragout, in love with Fiona at first damn sight.  

I’m not giving anything away here since this line is literally in the description of the book: 

“Before the summer ends,” he growled, boxing her in which his bulky arms, “I’m going to ask you to marry me.”..”And you won’t say no.”

But I would just like to throw out what Eli says to just before this line, (get ready to swoon peeps):

“You’re as radiant as a sunrise. I think I’ve loved you since the first time you opened that smart of yours”. 

We talk on the podcast all the time how we love that backhanded compliment, like “I love your dumb handsome face”..That’s what this line is for me…

Mind you, as while he’s delivering this line, his tail is doing this: 

“His tail prodded between her legs. She spread her thighs for him, gasping when the supple length curled into the waistband of her drawers to rub at her folds with gentle teasing caresses”. 

I would never in my life thought I’d find tailplay sexy, but holy cats! En fuego. Four alarm fire in Rae’s underoos. 

Let me just add this whole scene is predicated upon the request that Eli is willing to keep his priestly stole on during their sexual congress. None of the priests in the past would do that for Fiona. 

Y’all remember I have a priest kink too, so this scene hit all the right notes, my friends. 

The two have an immediate connection, albeit filled with playful animosity. What I really enjoyed about this retelling is that at no point does the ‘beast’ character ever act as such; we don’t see Beauty having to reconcile the man inside to the beast on the outside - or be in fear of him. In fact, Fiona is enthralled with Eli upon their first meeting. Her witch faculties are through scent, and he emits an addicting scent almost immediately. And that’s all I’m going to say about that. :heart cockles melting in 3..2..1:

The Meat (The Con)

I’m a glutton for punishment. I would have liked their third act breakup to last a bit longer. Just because I like pining. Call me a pine tree, because I am INTO IT. There is very little angst in this, mostly acceptance of grief, so maybe just a little yearning might have been a good thing for a certain character. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

I like where the books in this world are going. We are seeing more of the female characters taking control and making a name for themselves. As with The Widowed Witch of Kriegspiel (which takes place I’m assuming about 15 years before this book), the witches in this society are realizing they have the true power and can begin to wield it for their own rights and safety. In that book, in particular, we are introduced to a date rape drug that is being used by priest husbands to subdue their ‘feisty’ witch wives to fulfill marital duties. The women are so fucking powerful that you need to sedate them so their don’t pull off your bullocks when you attempt to take them against their will. Retribution is coming, fellas, I feel it in the wind!

As Of Heists and Hexes also takes place concurrently to this book, we see independent women starting to make a difference in how society views women, and with Robin, in particular, she’s the leader of a social cause. Eli’s castle lives on the outskirts of Sherwood Forest, which seems to have different rules than some of the other areas that take place in the books. I still think of Pistol and David’s warning to Ana in The Secret Witch of Kriegspiel: “Remember this place, “ David said gruffly. “You aren’t ever to come here by yourself.” Ana swallowed. “I know. I remember…They’ve burned witches in Pistol…They take matters into their own hands in places like this”. Pistol plays a large part of The Wicked Witch of Kriegspiel too. I hope upon hope that Pistol eventually gets their comeuppance in the end. 

Something happens in this book that is absolutely gorgeous and I will definitely not spoil it for you, but it just shows the long trajectory Prater has with creating supportive and magnanimous hero’s. While the inventions that Eli has created and the efforts he has to fight demons are impressive, his appreciation for Fiona’s intelligence is moreso. It’s such a beautiful GG (grand gesture for the uninitiated). 

Their first conversation includes her solving an equation he’d been contemplating extensively in his lab with one glance. 

“Would you like your little sigil to function properly or not?...

“You have me curious…go on then, bossy witch. Astound me.”

And astound him she does. But he’s too cranky to admit it. 

“Not bad, bossy witch.” His tail thumped her once in the back, hard enough to jostle her. 

I think to really understand the GG here you need to read the entire series to get the full effect of Eli’s GG. Because it’s a GG but not in the way we would normally interpret it, he does it because she’s earned it. 

In each Prater work, at some point, the hero has stepped back or aside to let the heroine speak their truth to power and supported them. In life, isn’t that what we are all looking for? A partner that lets us fly and be there to support us if we fall? That being said, these couples all feel like equal partnerships, no one has more power in the relationship structure. While Eli is vocal about his feelings for Fiona, she knows that control of the relationship lies with her. If she decides to leave, that’s her decision, and hers alone. 

Guys, I love these books so hard. I can’t wait to see where we head next - I’m waiting for full witch domination. 

Vive la révolution des sorcières!

I’ve had a long run of delightful historical romances lately, the most recent being The Viscount’s Reluctant Bride (The Oxford Set, Book 4) by Ava Bond. There’s so much to love here for a shorter novel: marriage of convenience, needed heir, dying hero, evil twin, misunderstandings…it’s like a soap opera and I loved every minute. 

A Little Bit of Plot

Viscount Gregory Silverton is dying. Between the illness ravaging his body and his evil twin set on sending him to an even earlier grave, Silverton must find a way to secure an heir who will inherit the estate upon his death thus saving the family fortune. Enter Maeve Walsh; spinster school teacher in need of funds to save her father from a debtors' prison. Reluctantly, Maeve agrees to wed by special license and begin getting down to making an heir before the week is out. Gregory attempts to keep Maeve’s existence unknown to his brother while trying not to get too attached as his time is running out. 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

The Writing

When you spend most of your life unable to touch skin to skin with another person, as was the norm during this time, grasping hands, running your fingers over an arm, or caress a shoulder was highly erotic. Bond presents us with one such scene that displays her talent for describing an everyday occurrence in a highly charged manner.

He offered his hand to her. Without thinking, Maeve stretched out her own, and their fingers touched. It was then she realized that neither of them wore gloves. A spark of awareness traveled straight up her arm. Her eyes widened as they locked with the viscount’s unable to look away from this compelling stranger.

The gentleman dipped his head, and she saw that he was examining her bare left hand…The viscount did not release her hand until Maeve sat in one of the seats. 

So much is said with just the touch of their hands. We feel that initial spark and a burgeoning chemistry. 

To seal their agreement and to prove she won’t back out, Bond gives us this exchange:

“I will keep my word.” Maeve looked up at him. Despite her resolve, she did not feel quite so certain. To steel herself, she reached up on her tiptoes and pressed her dry lips against his cheek. It was meant to be a fleeting sign of agreement in her mind. But so much for good intentions because, as soon as her mouth touched his skin, that spark of awareness that occurred earlier happened again. It burnt through her senses, whilst the feel of his whiskers rasped against her lips. She tried to move away, but Silverton was quicker. His hands reached out, and he grasped her elbows keeping her close.

Hot, right? They haven’t even gotten horizontal yet, folks. Cuz when they do - holy cats it’s scorching. 

The Meat (The Con)

The final quarter of the book drags a bit, not like some that come to a complete standstill. The showdown scene is a bit drawn out. But this actually leads to my Bottom Bun…

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

The Pacing

This book moves. I think because there’s quite a bit of action happening in such a short amount of time that when we get to the showdown it does feel like we’ve decreased speed. I will say that Bond uses her pages wisely; furthering the breakneck paced storyline plus also illustrating how the main couple is developing feelings. At no point did I feel as though scenes could have been shaved to better serve the plot - she made it work. And while I just indicated the last quarter slowed down, I will admit it’s in order for the reader to get a better sense of how truly evil Charles (Gregory's twin) really is. To understand his madness will  ratchet up the treacherousness of his menacing of both Gregory and Maeve toward the end.

If you are looking for an action packed romance with telenovela beats, this is definitely for you. The other Eva Bond novel that I read, the first in the Oxford Set series, was exactly the same - although that was a road novel. Breakneck pacing that pushed the plot forward. I’m definitely interested in reading more of her work, especially the others in this series -I'm looking at you - Michael Trawler. 

To say that historical romance is my jam is an understatement. While I do prefer Regency era novels, I’m quite thrilled to come across a Victorian from time to time. It’s interesting to me, the biggest complaint most readers have with Regency era novels is the lack of women’s rights, the strict societal expectations, and the caste system in general. For these reasons alone, I’m always at a loss as to why there aren’t more novels set in the Victorian era. In 1882, England passed the Married Women’s Property Act, giving them vastly more autonomy and civil rights, in particular, in regard to owning property, businesses, and deeming that the husband and wife were two separate legal entities. All of that to say, I was optimistic about a novel set in 1905 England but kept my expectations low. Plus, I usually trend more toward the quintessential ‘bodice ripper’, so I wasn’t overly hyped. 

I was absolutely pleasantly surprised with Krista Jensen's Hearts of Briarwall, which upon further research, looks to be her first published piece. The novel kept me engaged; moreover, so much so that I finished it in an evening. 

A Little Bit of Plot

Lydia Wooding has an issue. While she knows she's an adult, in fact, within months of receiving her majority, her brother still insists that she’s a brash young girl with more spirit than sense. When her brother’s friend Spencer visits Briarwall with a business proposition, he appreciates Lydia for the woman she has become yet he is still harboring a wounded heart. The chemistry between the two is undeniable and with their mutual love of the motorcar, it seems to be a fated match, however, societal expectations and a long past scandal threaten to keep them apart. 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

The Wendy League

We are reminded throughout this book that we are at the absolute cusp of womens suffrage. Fifteen years from the events of this book, British women will receive the vote. Women's right’s issues are dealt with very deftly and with sensitivity here. A few characters describe suffrage as nothing more than harridans not knowing their place, but these individuals are portrayed as simple and elitist. 

For Lydia and her small group of friends, they’ve spent their youth and formative years as spirited women with opinions and idealistic morals. Under the guise of a book club, the Wendy League meets weekly to banter ideas about autonomy, suffrage, and women’s rights. 

They were not The Wordsworth Ladies, the name she’d used to convince Andrew to allow them to hold their official meetings in this seldom-used morning room. They were The Wendy League. ..Long ago, the girls had decided that Wendy’s brush with the boy who could fly changed her forever, for the better. She must’ve sought out adventure after soaring in the skies, must’ve been fearless after facing pirates, and must have had a better understanding of boys after finding homes for the Lost Boys.

Throughout the novel, we witness each member of the Wendy League individually interacting with Lydia’s brother Andrew (at times the villain of the novel) by protecting or supporting Lydia through verbal sparring, outwitting others, and often physical means. Each member exhibits different characteristics that when combined as a group, make them almost formidable. A Victorian era Captain Planet, if you will. As most of the women are older than Lydia, and as she has no family outside of Andrew, they have taken upon themselves to be her mentors, sisters, and confidantes. “Like Wendy Darling at the nursery window, we seize the opportunity to fly.”

The Meat (The Con)

The scandal that arises which leads to the 3rd act breakup seems to come out of nowhere. I find it hard to believe that while Andrew and Spencer have been out of touch for sometime, one party, in particular, would not have been cognizant of what has transpired. Additionally, the way in which the ‘offended’ party reacts doesn’t feel on brand with how they related to the offender previously. Additionally, the preening peacock of an antagonist needed to get more recompense than they received. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

The Love Story

While the entire novel takes place over a week, you feel as though the hero and heroine have built a solid foundation for a relationship. Instant attraction is evident, and obviously needed to further the plot, but both parties are cautious, Spencer in particular, not wanting to jump headfirst too quickly. While this is a shorter novel, the pacing worked well to bring about a natural and realistic love story. I did mention that clean romances were not my forte, I believe you can have a scintillating book if the chemistry is evident - and it’s definitely evident. 

But then his hands slowly circled her waist, and then he tightened his arms around her back, his fingers grazing her bare shoulder blades. She sighed, and he growled low, moving his lips across hers and over her neck, then back to her mouth. Tingles raced through her body…they exchanged kiss after kiss until she became dizzy with the power of it. 

Y’all, that’s way more action than Elizabeth got from Darcy before he put a ring on it, that’s for sure. 

We don’t really have a grand gesture in this novel, but I interpret that as neither party is actually in the wrong for the 3rd act break up. The party that forces the breakup, has their own moment of penitence, and it’s absolutely lovely. 

I would absolutely recommend this book and I’m excited to read about each member of the Wendy League as we move forward. Honestly, I’m really interested to see who captures the affection of Andrew, the Grecian God.

We all have that friend whose solitary existence predicates on the whim of some loser in their life. You listen as they recall the latest moment in which they’ve played an unstinting doormat for someone while extolling their underlying virtues and inventing excuses as to their lack of commitment. While I say this, I am not comparing the hero in this novel to the loser in question, I just imagine what the heroine’s friends were privy to for an entire year of her being ignored. In Joanna Shupe’s newest novel, The Bride Goes Rogue (The Fifth Avenue Rebels, #3), we begin with our heroine at her breaking point and it’s a wild ride from jumpstreet. 

A Little Bit of Plot

Katherine Delafield has been patiently waiting for her betrothed, Preston Clarke, to acknowledge their engagement. As the betrothal was planned and contracted between their fathers many years prior, both Kat and Preston have only met (briefly) once in their lives. But as Kat understands, arranged marriages are common in society, therefore, fills her time planning the momentous day. Preston has no intention of following through on the contractual allegiance. After a not-so-meet cute that leaves Preston off balance, Kat has publicly called off the engagement and decides to make up for the year she spent pining after her betrothed. As luck some times does, these two are pushed together on many intimate occasions. While Kat finds her footing in the world of sensual liaisons, Preston realizes he wants none other than her. 

The Top Bun (The Pro)

Katherine Delafield is a Boss Ass Bitch

No simpering miss here! When dismissed by Preston in their first interaction, she vows to not only forget him, but to find some distractions until ready to settle down. I find that with gilded age novels it’s easier to see this sort of situation happening - we’re not too far from the 1920’s which did promulgate the expanding notion of public displays of sexuality and a looser construct of proper relationships.

I will say, Kat’s response when being ‘dumped’ (in a fashion) by Preston, is how we wish every one of those friends indicated above would let loose. 

“It took me until I reached the street to realize the truth…There is nothing wrong with me. You, Preston Clarke, are the one who has something wrong with him. You are a…a heartless clod…One day, you’ll regret letting me go but it’ll be too late. I wouldn’t marry you now if you begged me on bended knee in front of the whole dashed city. You ruined your one chance at having the perfect life. Enjoy your” she waved her hand to indicate his office” work. I hope it makes you very happy”. 

Why do I suddenly want to blast Beyonce’s, Run the World?

By throwing down this gauntlet, Shupe has situated Preston so far emotionally behind Kat that he will need to demonstrate tremendous growth as a character to win her back. Makes it quite exciting, does it not? 

The Meat (The Con)

We see Kat enjoy a friendship with a handsome young duke in need of a wife. While neither party is interested in a romantic connection, just their acquaintanceship infuriates Preston. I think I would have liked a little bit more of Kat being seriously pursued by other suitors. Make Preston really sweat. The man ignored her for an entire year, girlfriend should be allowed to see and be seen for a bit, you know? Dance upon a table, drunkenly sing whatever the Gilded Age version of karaoke was, visit the local dance halls… you know, live it up 1890's style! 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

El Fuego Alert!

This book is hot, y’all. I realize I say this quite often. If GoodReads reviews are to be believed, a surprisingly large number of readers don’t like spice. That’s fair. But by me indicating the steaminess of a certain book, they can decide for themselves if the book is for them. Nothing angers me more than someone giving a bad review because of presences of sexual scenes. YOU KNEW THIS GOING INTO IT! You need to review a book on the merits of the writing, plot, characterization, etc…not because two characters may or may not have gone to the bone zone. 

Okay. Rant Over. 

Anywhoo…this book is spicy. 

She blurted the words. “You could give yourself relief.”

He paused in pouring more champagne. “I could,” he said slowly, examining her expression. “Is that something you’d like to see?”

Absolutely. How else was sheto learn about the male anatomy? “I would. Very much.” When he seemed to hesitate she added, “Please.”

“Please, is it?” He ran his palm over the thick bulge in his trousers, then shuddered, his breath sawing out of his chest. “How could I refuse?”

Needless to say, Kat gets an education during this encounter. Of course, Preston is only too accommodating to providing more instruction. 

He growled deep in his throat. “Oh, mon chaton. I can see how slick you are, you gorgeous creature. You like me telling me about your list, didn’t you?”

She nodded, her bottom lip disappearing between her front teeth. He could feel his cock leaking, eager to find her heat. God almighty, he might give his entire fortune in this moment to fuck her. 

Also, new kink - find you a partner who lovingly calls you ‘mon chaton’; both deliciously suggestive and exceptionally endearing. 

Overall, this is a total recommend. I’ve read a lot of other Joanna Shupe series and enoy the timeperiod and location the books are set. Her books primarily deal with New York City, a la the HBO series, the Gilded Age; however,  her heroes are often not quite anti-heroes but not the normal ‘white knight’ presented in most historical romances. Also, most of her heroines are independent strong willed business women or social workers. 

I love two things: when a plan comes together and a delightful wrap up of a series of novels….oh, and Jonathan Bailey’s butt…so three things. Anthony Bridgerton’s rear end aside, I can say that I’ve been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the final book in the Misfits of Mayfair series, Dukes Do It Better by Bethany Bennett. I was not disappointed by this latest offering in the least. This book had it all for me: plucky and determined heroine, suave and sexy hero throwing some major piratical vibes, and a very open and forward thinking family dynamic unusual to the times.

A Little Bit of Plot

Enchanting widow, Lady Emma Hardwick, has returned to London to regain her place in the tonne, make new friends, and possibly enjoy some bed sport with a handsome navy captain along the way. A second chance encounter with the seamen-cum-newly minted (I literally couldn’t NOT do it) Duke of Trenton, Malachi Harlow, sparks the memory of one night of pleasure in need of repeating. Both assent to a no-strings liaison until Mal’s return to captaincy; unfortunately, both Mal and Emma find the time spent out of bed together just as enticing as their calescent unions between the sheets. While both Emma and Mal shoulder their own share of secrets, can they find trust and honesty in each other’s arms? 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

A Very Natural Relationship Progression

While my favorite trope is still when the hero #fallsfirstfallshard I’m equally enchanted with a relationship that builds at a natural pace. The hero and heroine both give each other the space to examine their feelings in a relaxed manner. Both parties are aware that they have hefty responsibilities towards others which would be impacted by any entanglements. 

“Every promise, every hope, every touch, bound them together in the antithesis of a no-strings affair. And it was glorious”.

But because this is a romance novel, both parties catch feelings and luckily, at first, we don’t have contrived reasons as to why they can’t be together. Of course, again, because it’s a romance novel, we have a miscommunication which leads to the 2nd act breakup and I’m loving every angsty minute of it. 

Is this thinking toxic? 

Do you think Talk Space would sponsor our podcast? 

Asking for a friend..

The Meat (The Con)

From jumpstreet, Emma waxes poetic about this gloriously hedonistic sexy night she spent with a sea captain. It was hot, multiple orgasms were had, neither regions were devoured and….ITS ALL OFF SCREEN. 

Wut. 

Bethany, girl, that’s cold. Daaaaaaaamn cold. Like that middle school sleep over when someone put your bra in the freezer cold. By the way, what the hell was the point of that anyway? So they’d have an icy and ultimately soggy bra? Cool. Teenagers are dumb. 

Anywho - what I mean to say is, if this encounter is almost transformational in both Emma and Mal’s life, we the reader need to see it. While we do become invested in this couple, I think some of the impact upon their second meeting is lessened without this emotional and monumental (to them) occurrence. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

An Open Minded Family Dynamic

I think to be able to elucidate the full effect of this very unorthodox (for the time) family dynamic, you must read the first and second books in the series. I don’t want to spoil the ending of the second novel by describing too much, but, needless to say Emma, her brother Calvin, and her sister in law Phee do not conform to convention. Emma is exceptionally open and honest with her brother regarding her relationships (past and present) and he accepts her proclivities with an unabashed air of nonchalance. 

“You’re comfortable about me talking of killing a man, but not sleeping with one, brother mine?”

Cal shrugged into his banyan and cinched the tie closed. “The difference here is that I’ve already disposed of the body of one man in question. Frankly, the pirate is a behemoth and would be an absolute beast to get rid of.” Cal gave Phee a short and sweet buss loaded with affection. “Phee, my love, I leave you to talk about boys without my judgmental presence. I’ll return with coffee shortly.”

Calvin also makes it a point to befriend Mal very early on in the relationship, even knowing he may be a temporary mainstay. The group is very relaxed with one another while straddling the line of the social norms of the time. I know we often deride historical romances when they affix modern contrivances or standards to that of the past, but at some point, are we not just rehashing the same plot over and over again? I find it refreshing to flip the script and discover heroines in similar and relatable situations to myself. Who doesn’t want to imagine getting busy with a sexy Hook from Once Upon a Tiime? Or enjoy a warm bed and spicy whiskey with a Richard Madden-esque Scot in front of a roaring fire? No one. That’s who. 

While I am whole-heartedly recommending this book, I would suggest that you read them in order. Some major plot points span the length of the trilogy and you’d be a bit in the dark without a knowledge of all three. Plus, it’s just more sexy forward thinking awesome people going to the bone zone. Come on, who would say no to that? No one. That’s who. 

Hello everyone, I’m just over here replacing all the batteries on my smoke alarms, yo. It’s been a 4 alarm fire since I started reading E.L. Koslo’s “Mark My Words”. E.L., girl, you did it again! 

Not only does this book have extremely steamy scenes, but also follows the development of a grumpy/sunshine, work rivals, office romance. We also have a #fallfirstfallhard hero; a trope that I am absolutely enamored with. 

A Little Bit of Plot

Work rivals Sam and Christine find themselves a bit too close for comfort when tasked with editing the upcoming collaboration novel of two best selling authors. The authors in question, Evan and Chase, were the MC from Foreplay on Words, the first in the series. 

For Sam and Chris, working together in close quarters and delving into increasingly scorching material leads to an eventual surrender to desire. :smirk: While both claim a disinterest in any long term relationship, something changes for Sam. He discovers that while he enjoys, you know, ‘communicating with their bodies’, he also relishes in the personal moments he shares with Chris - inside jokes, cuddling, sleeping together. Has he caught feelings for his acerbic colleague? If so, how can he convince her to forget her past and let down her walls?

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

The Atmosphere of Working in a P….ITS THE SEX, Y’ALL.

Unlike Bridgerton Season 2, this sophomore effort does not tone down the sex. (Burn! Take that, Netflix). We steer away from the bondage aspects of the first book, but that doesn’t deter from the amount of sex to which our couple engage. Let’s just say they’re very enthusiastic, and it is fucking hot. 

Summoning all the strength I had left; I rolled over and shook my ass at him as he stood there staring at it. 

“Come on, don't get shy on me now, Sam. You have a promise to fulfill.”

That seemed to snap him out of it as he stepped forward, using his foot to spread my legs a little wider and stepping in toward me, teasing me with the head of his dick before he pushed back inside, groaning loudly. 

“Fuck you’re still so tight.”

:fans herself: and it gets hotter from there..I just needed to take a breather…

“Cum,” I moaned as my forehead fell to the fabric in front of me, my thighs burning with the effort to hold myself up as he used me for his pleasure. 

“Fuck. Christine,” he groaned as held me flush with him. “Gonna cum so hard inside you. And you’re gonna take it”. I could feel him pulse inside of me seconds later. 

I don’t know if I necessarily need to speak more on this point -  I’m assuming that everyone reading that has gone off to do…you know…whatever their bodies tell them to…and then purchase this book. 

The Meat (The Con)

This is a slight con, and it’s the same one I have in any grumpy/sunshine pairing, sometimes I want to pinch the ‘Eeyore’ of the couple and say “lighten up”. In this instance, Chris is the self-proclaimed “Ice Princess” of the office and bars anyone from making a personal connection. Understandably, she has few people to call friends or close confidantes, therefore, I can see the difficulty in not wanting to mix friendship with frequent bouts of sexual congress. We get some backstory with Chris, so I completely empathize with her stance, but Sam tries so damn hard. He does seduce her into being more forthcoming, so he gets points for ingenuity. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

The Book Structure

I believe to get the full aspect of this book, you should read Foreplay on Words first. I say that as this is the narrative of what was happening behind the scenes in that book. I enjoyed anticipating what was coming next and how certain characters handle the fallout from some of the major plot points of FOW. The reader can further delve into the novel that Evan and Chase were creating and how it affected the editors; moreover, how the act of editing the more sexual chapters are what triggered the relationship between these two MC. 

“Kallie had always known that using her body as a weapon was the best way to protect herself…” Sam read clearly in his deep timbre. I squeezed my eyes shut for a moment to keep a shudder from trailing down my spine as his warm breath flowed over the side of my neck. “If you wanted to survive in a male-dominated world, you had to learn what made them tick. What their motivations were. And where their weaknesses lie…” Sam cleared his throat softly, the hair on the back of my neck standing up at the sound. 

The book they’re editing is so hot that both have trouble keeping their hands off each other every time. It’s like the novel itself has some magical sexual properties. Like an erotic necronomicon.. Erotinomicon? (Yes! Trademark! Slap it on a shirt) 

As Evan and Chase wrote their novel, their relationship took on a similar trajectory. As a form of research for certain scenes, they became more experimental and more sexual. While Chris and Sam are experimental on a different level, their interactions do heighten throughout the publishing process. 

Seriously….Erotinomicon. 

Full voiced recommend on Mark my Words - we even have a bit of angst that I’m not even going to touch on. I’ve made a discovery about myself in general, I like 2nd act breakup angst - just not full court press angst throughout. The angsty buildup to the 3rd act grand gesture is a climax in itself.  With this novel, we have a pretty great GG to be sure.

If I have to create a ranking of all Jane Austen novels, there are some clear winners up at the top: Pride and Prejudice, Mansfield Park, and Emma. Those at the bottom: Northanger Abbey, Sanditon, and Lady Susan. Those right in the middle: Sense and Sensibility and Persuasion. Of course, this is totally my own rankings, obvi not everyone loves Mansfield Park as much as I. 

After much introspection, however, I have discovered why I’m not as enthralled with Sense and Sensibility and Persuasion: the angst and longing. Yes, there is some of that in Mansfield Park, but the other two are just dripping with fainting-couch-smelling-salt-esque angst. In saying that, I will admit that I was nervous/excited to read Tirzah Price’s sophomore installment of her Jane Austen Murder Mystery series, Sense and Second Degree Murder. Well, friends, again, I was happily surprised. Ms. Price not only toned down the angst, but developed the mystery in such a way that while the romance remained in the background and we weren't bereft at its curtailing. 

A Little Bit of Plot

Mr. Dashwood is dead. Not only has he passed on from this life, but someone aided him in his journey. Prior to his death, made a name for himself as a detective, building Norland and Company from the ground up. Upon his death, his estate and business are bequeathed to his only son, John, who promptly shutters the agency and removes his sisters and step mother to Cheapside. 

Burgeoning chemist, Elinor, along with her sister Mariannne (her father’s apprentice), discover that Mr. Dashwood’s death was no mere natural cause and delve into the investigation to bring the murder or murderers to justice. The price of their investigations might mean not only their hearts, but their lives as well. 

The Top Bun (The Pro)

S-T-E-A-M (And not the bedroom kind)

Science. Technology. Engineering. Arts. and Mathematics

I am a sucker for bluestockings in historical romance. Catnip, my friends, CATNIP! Tirzah Price combines two of my favorite things: Jane Austen novels and smart chicks. Elinor Dashwood understands her limitations when it comes to her knowledge of Chemistry. This does not deter her from endeavoring to uncover answers by unconventional means if necessary or by asking for assistance from those with more experience. She deftly creates smoke bombs and other explosives for the youngest sister, Margaret, and someday dreams to study science for academic purposes and the betterment of society. 

Marianne studied the art of detecting alongside her father for years. As a young girl, she could take on different personas and often run surveillance without being observed; overlooked by most adults. While only 16, she is determined to continue running her father’s business outside the banner of Norland and Company.  While her romantic interest Willoughby might turn her head for the slightest moment, she understands there’s more at stake than a handsome face. When push comes to shove, Marianne is a scrappy, courageous, young lady and not some silly young chit (thank you Anthony Bridgerton for putting that back in my lexicon).

The Con (The Meat)

I don’t have much to say negatively about this book. Fanny is the worst and I hated her so much - therefore, we know that Price did what she was supposed to - it’s the author's job to make us not like certain characters. Seriously, Fanny is a vampire, someone put a stake in that woman's heart.

 I would say if I had to pick one storyline that I didn’t care for as much was Mrs. Dashwoods. I don’t want to spoil too much, but I’m not sure if it was necessary. Connections can be made with her situation and modern day societal issues, but I’m not completely sure we needed it. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

The Sisterly Relationship

As in the original version of S&S, the connection between all 4 Dashwood women is extremely tight; however, Elinor and Marianne hold a special bond. One scene in particular that is exceptionally excoriating is the revelation that Elinor has been keeping a secret from Marianne for a long period of time. It’s so dramatic and weepy in the theatrical adaptations, but you have two polar opposite characters that share everything with one another and one of them is silently hurting.  Marianne might not need to speak her secrets out loud as they are written all over her face but Elinor, the more reserved of the two, struggles with an unrequited love and to put voice to her affection would destroy her self-preservation.  When this is revealed, the heartbreak and pain that Elinor has been suffering for a long period of time, wells up and overtakes her. As the reader, you're absolutely gutted for this quiet and stoic character. 

Pro tip, if you want to cry today, check out this excellent scene from the exceptional 1995 film with Emma Thompson and Kate Winslet: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C5yp1RTbWkw

The last part of the book (when the pace ramps up) has all 3 sisters working in tandem together as quite a powerhouse team. At some point, even Mrs. Dashwood lends a hand in the melee. With Margaret’s storytelling acumen, Marianne’s detective skills, and Elinor’s scientific brilliance, they successfully wrap up the mystery and we the reader are left wanting more tales from their investigative adventures. An absolute delightful addition to this series. 

As I said with Pride and Premeditation, I would recommend for children 12 and up. This series does deal with murder and mayhem, therefore, maybe not great  reading for the little ones. 

Bring on Emma and… I’m sitting here trying to think up a murder pun…nope. Nothing. I'll leave that to Tirzah.

Hey y’all, it’s Veronica again. Recently, I was gifted an ARC of the 5th installment of Greer Rivers’ Conviction Series: Atoning Conviction. I’ve decided it’s my birthday present from Greer. And what a gift it was.

I’m going to be honest… I don’t even know where to fucking start and I mean that in the best way possible.

I’ve been a fan of Greer’s writing since the very first book in the series. The plot pulled me in. I wanted to know where things went. I liked learning about the rest of the team. I was intrigued by multiple perspectives. The writing was compelling (and hot).

Honestly, I didn’t even think that the series would be this big. I thought it might be a trio and be done. I didn’t expect to get a full-blown 6-book series.

Dearest readers, I love it when I’m wrong about something involving a book. It’s the best kind of surprise.

I convinced Rae to review the ARC of Fighting Conviction (book 2, episode here) and then I reviewed ARCs for the next two on my own (reviews here and here). I have been highly awaiting book 5, as I’d developed my own theories as to how the plot would develop. So without further ado, let’s get into it, but fair warning: if you haven’t read the first 4 books, there will be spoilers. 

The Plot

Atoning Conviction takes place over the course of the tail end of Breaking Conviction (book 3) and the entirety of Healing Conviction (book 4). 

At the end of book 3, we find Phoenix leaving the Blackstone facility with the enemy. He’s not seen, nor heard from until the very end of book 4, where his former teammates receive a video of him.

The events of the book take place in between these two markers in Phoenix’s life. And holy shitballs is it a fucking ride.

A significant portion of the book (about 60ish%) takes place in captivity. Phoenix and Callie are trapped in what they call “the underground.” It’s a prison. Callie has been there for a long time already.

They’re both tortured, though in different ways. There are graphic depictions of physical and sexual violence. Drugs are involved. It’s absolute hell for both of them. 

As you might expect (this is a romance novel, after all), the two of them form a forbidden bond and eventually work together to escape.

A Note on Content and Trigger Warnings

First and foremost, it’s important to understand that this book is officially listed as a dark romance. While the rest of the books in the series are listed as romantic suspense with dark themes, this is … real dark. 

It’s entirely worth noting that Greer Rivers is extremely sensitive to this fact and made sure to warn her ARC team (hair flip) on multiple occasions. In fact, she also told us that we could skip this book and remain on her ARC team if we wished. 

We can get into a whole discussion about trigger warnings on a different day, but for now, know that if you have triggers surrounding human trafficking, rape, assault, or violence, prepare yourself. As Greer said to us: “protect your heart.”

If you’re wondering whether the content will be too much for you, I can’t really answer that. But I will say that there is one scene, in particular, that was really tough for me to get through. If I weren’t sitting next to a stranger in an enclosed space (masks on) at the time, I might have cried. I won’t lie to you: I considered skipping it. 

I didn’t though because I trust Greer. I truly don’t believe she would put gratuitous violence against women in a book for shits and giggles. 

I got through it and I’m glad I did. Again, you’ll need to make that decision on your own based on your own mental health and triggers. But the bottom line is that it’s instrumental to the plot and important in Phoenix and Callie’s story.

I will say that what helped me get through it was knowing the purpose behind the action, and that’s to spur the Blackstone team and Callie to absolutely fucking annihilate the people who run this trafficking ring. As a reader, I was more than ready for some violent revenge when the time came. 

Top Bun

My top bun is Greer’s plotting. 

If you hadn’t caught on during the first 4 books, Atoning Conviction makes it extremely obvious that she’s not just spitting out romance novels with a hint of suspense. These books might be standalones for the couples, but they should absolutely be read in order so you can fully appreciate Greer’s attention to detail.

There is a detail from the very first book that I had completely forgotten until reading Atoning Conviction. It didn’t seem like a major deal at the time, but it’s used to set the tone for a specific character and I did not realize how much that tiny detail influenced me until this book. 

I had to travel for work this week, so I was doing a good portion of reading on the plane and in the airport. While a lot of the pieces were clicking into place for me, I was 31,000 feet in the air being slingshot from one state to another and entirely unable to talk to anyone about what was happening on my Kindle.

Instead, I stared out the dark window at absolutely nothing while my brain did this:

https://media.giphy.com/media/l0IylOPCNkiqOgMyA/giphy.gif

When I got home, I pulled my Kindle back out to keep reading and PROMPTLY typed an all-caps email to Greer. 

The breadcrumbs she leaves that don’t feel like breadcrumbs at all are perfection. 

It would not surprise me at all if she has the entire series completely mapped out in a series of post-its on a giant wall in her house. She knows exactly where we’re going and what will happen and she’s not giving any goddamned thing away. She tells you what she wants you to know and when so you can be properly dragged up and down the hills on that rollercoaster.

Greer Rivers is one of the most talented new writers I’ve seen. I’ll one-click her from here until eternity. 

The Meat

OOF it’s dark. Dark romance isn’t really my thing – the world is dark enough. In fact, I read romance primarily to escape the darkness of the world. But like I said before: I trust Greer.

And also, I want that sweet, sweet revenge.

So that’s why I suffered through the parts that made me wince and cringe and tear up and tense up every single muscle in my body. 

One thing that is mentioned multiple times is nightmares – how they’re both stronger than their nightmares. From Phoenix’s perspective:

“Being in the underground was his villain origin story. His nightmares didn’t stand a chance against him.”

Again, I’ll reiterate that readers should check the trigger warnings and protect yourselves. Everyone will need to make these decisions on their own. If it’s too much, skip through those parts.

Bottom Bun

Phoenix.

Fucking. 

Rises.

This is another aspect of Greer’s brilliant plotting. His nickname is Phoenix. Of course, it could be argued (and is essentially inferred) that the name fits him because he flies helicopters – they literally rise straight into the air. We also find out at the end of book 4 that his real name is Felix. (If it’s stated before then, I don’t recall it.) Phoenix is a play on the name Felix.

But I’m willing to bet money that his nickname was intentional from the very start of this series.

I had a theory during book 3 that Phoenix was sacrificing himself by allowing himself to be captured. Perhaps Phoenix thought he could play both sides long enough to get closer and find out who was at the top. 

I had hope that he was still a good guy deep down, but was suffering from a lot of PTSD and a rather significant amount of depression. But again with Greer’s plotting… I questioned it. I questioned my theory a lot throughout book 4. 

The theme of the entire series is justice and redemption but is perhaps the most poignant in this book. Callie and Phoenix are works of art. 

Given the amount of trauma the two of them have been through in their lives (both pre-underground and during), I wondered how in the world the two of them would move forward. How do you get up and try to go about a “normal” life after all of that? 

But Phoenix is an incredible person with a huge heart, so he takes the initiative, essentially telling Snake that he is ready to heal all his trauma and move forward with his life, alongside Callie.

“I need to make sure I fix myself, too. People can cut each other with their broken pieces. I want to be whole for both of us.”

Would I recommend this book? Hell yes. (Be sure to mind your trigger warnings.)

I’m going to go ahead and say it: Atoning Conviction is my favorite book in this series. 

I’m certain I’ll go back and read parts of it now and again, much as I do with Fighting Conviction. (I’ve really got a soft spot for the reformed rakes.) 

Honestly, I can’t say enough good things about this book. It’s excellent. I’m upset that I have to wait until October for the conclusion of the series. 

But I have a feeling it will be very worth the wait. 

For the second week in a row, I’ve delved into the world of Regency era London theatre and I’m 100% Here. For. It. You throw in some insta-love on the heroes' part, a touch of enemies to lover, add a dash of female empowerment packed into one Wallflower and you have a Rae’s Favs on your hands, baby. Like catnip to this very discerning cat, I can easily say that I thoroughly enjoyed Eloisa James’, How to Be a Wallflower. 

A Little Bit of Plot

All Jacob Astor Addison wants is a manageable quiet wife and for his American theatre empire to have the best of the best. Meaning, world renown talent - including London's best costume designer. He’s willing to pay top dollar to relocate the operation to the states in order to have the best in the business. Daughter of a ‘commode baron’, Cleopatra Lewis wishes for the costume emporium to remain in London and clothe not only actors and actresses but the tonne as well. Jake and Cleo strike up a bargain: they will design wardrobes for each other to thwart their opponents' winning plans. Except after one fiery exchange, Jake forgets about that quiet boring vision of a wife and turns his sights on Cleo. Unfortunately for Jake, Cleo is determined to be a wallflower, while living the life of an independent entrepreneur. Unbeknownst to Cleo, however, is that Jake knows how to play the long game - and excels at it. 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

A Sexually Informed Heroine

While Cleopatra Lewis is a virgin, she’s not an ill-informed one. Her mother, unfortunately/fortunately, had quite the wandering eye and enjoyed a profuse amount of ‘bed-sport’ with different flavors of the week. Unfortunately for Cleo, her mother, Julia, would describe her exploits in detail to her teenage daughter and cuckolded husband. Conversely,  Cleo gained a wealth of knowledge about safe sexual practices and independence. Along with her sexual freedom came the importance of deterring unwanted pregnancy. 

Condoms! Julia commented in Cleo’s head. I told that boy about french letters years ago and he never listened.

We also learn that Julia insisted that Cleo stock her own condoms in the actuality that a man will attempt to forgo his own. And while her first time is still as shocking as it would be for any virgin at that time, Cleo knows what to expect…somewhat.

“More” didn’t turn out to be a good idea. “Kiss me again, Jake,” Cleo whispered. 

He instantly complied. “Do you feel gutted, darling?”

She couldn’t help a burble of laughter. “Did you just describe making love as a ‘gutting’?”

“I’m trying to imagine it from  your point of view, “ he said, his voice strained. “I’m not a small man.”

Cleo wiggled, trying to get comfortable. “Gutted’ might actually apply.”

While I’m certain this character is not as historically accurate as we hoped she’d be, it’s always refreshing to read about a heroine that not only enjoys being sexual but is also fearless when faced with new experiences. 

The Meat (The Con)

Honestly, there wasn’t much I didn’t care for with this book. It surpassed my expectations and I’m actually excited to read the next installment. If I had to pick out one negative, it would be that I guessed what the conflict would be that led to the Act 2 break up, but honestly, it’s not as angsty as I envisioned. And y’all know I hate angst (see almost every episode of the podcast and about ½ of the reviews I write). 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

The Fall First, Fall Hard Hero

I’m in love with this new trope, guys. It’s becoming much more popular, and I have to say, it’s addicting. For my entire life I’ve heard women say “for once, I want to be chased”, well ladies, the historical romance genre is f#$ing delivering! It’s like John Cusack in Say Anything, but instead of a boombox and trenchcoat, he’s a duke in breeches with a four piece string quartet behind him. 

The attraction builds after their first disastrous meeting and grows for Jake. Quiet conversations where he attempts to build up her irritation spark something in him. 

At that moment, he gave in. Cleopatra Lewis had conquered him without a single come-hither smile. 

By doing nothing but leading a strong, independent, and intelligent existence, this woman has enraptured this giant American theatre impresario. As he knows her plan is to remain a solitary woman, he understands that to win her he has to build up their relationship slowly. 

By wooing her - putting. in. the. damn. work.

We also talk on the podcast about putting in the minimum required effort; that the bar is literally on the floor in terms of expectations. Jake yeets that damn bar into the sun. 

In the back of his head, he reshuffled his life goals, and an impetuous, exasperating, utterly  desirable British woman stepped to the fore…

All those battles faded into insignificance. 

Winning Cleopatra? 

She held all the cards. Their kisses took his breath and language, leaving him with an inarticulate wish to growl, pick her up, and find a bed. 

Life Goal: Find a man who looks at you the way Jacob Astor Addision stares at Cleopatra Lewis. 

Lastly, I would talk about the ungodly ugly clothes that Jake is forced to wear in order to be near Cleo at every social event, but I could go on for pages. But the fact that he designs beautiful gowns that highlight every one of her curves and physical attributes as he’s forced to parade around town dressed like a foppish nightmare? Pure perfection. 

Cue the Peter Gabriel, I’m about to swoon. 

As a purveyor of mostly Regency era fiction, I understand the limitations that must exist to writing a historically accurate novel while at the same time filling it full of chemistry, sexuality, and otherwise counter-norm characteristics. For most readers, one must allow at least a modicum of suspension of disbelief. If you can’t, then I’m afraid you will be unable to truly enjoy most historical romance novels. I believe this pertains to Ava Bonds, The Marquess's Adventurous Miss: An Oxford Set Novel, on a number of occasions throughout. Not that I didn’t enjoy this novel, I did, I just had a few issues that I will touch upon. 

A Little Bit of Plot

Richard, the titular Marquess, has been searching for his long lost illegitimate daughter for 4 years. Having been removed from her mother at birth and left upon the doorstep of Prudence, the local vicar’s daughter, Harriet is considered a foundling. Raising the child like her own from the moment she was found, Prudence holds a close connection with the child. Concurrently, upon learning of Harriet’s whereabouts, Richard kidnaps both his daughter and Prudence. Learning of the child’s true parentage, Prudence decides to journey along with Richard back to his home in order to ensure Harriet’s safety. Many obstacles befall the group as they travel to Richard’s home Brayton, as do many sparks and longing looks. 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

The Pacing

The novel takes place literally over a few days, all of which occur on the run - so to speak. I’m not going to spoil as to why they are racing against the clock, but it has to do with the circumstances around Harriet’s birth and as to why she was sent away. Both Richard and Prudence start off on the wrong foot, for obvious reasons (i.e. the kidnapping) and have preconceived notions of the other’s intentions. So you have an enemies-to-lovers situation combined with runaway set pieces and a bit of intrigue. 

The problem with a limited time frame and swift pacing leads to my con with the book. 

The Meat (The Con)

The Chemistry

With so limited time, and most of it, laboring under incorrect assumptions, we aren’t privy to many moments of attraction, especially from Prudence. I think Richard is quite taken with her off the bat and, to be honest, isn’t the most discerning of men; therefore, even if he has ill will towards Prudence, he still wants to get horizontal. 

He was so close to believing her innocent facade. He pressed himself closer to her body, bringing his arms around her. His left hand lifted to try to capture her neck, and his right to press the small of her back flush against him. For a moment she stilled, and he realized his mistake. Her body froze, and he stepped back, realizing that while her enthusiasm was genuine, it was built on sheer curiosity and total lack of experience. 

Part of the issue with the lack of chemistry is the level of experience between the two characters. While I applaud Bonds for making Prudence more than just a silly hare-brained miss, I found it a bit distressing at what actually convinces Richard that she is as innocent as she claims. That also might be the feminist in me, where in which no one should have to defend their own honor, but that’s modern thinking and as I said above - suspension of disbelief. 

Also, I wasn’t totally convinced that Prudence’s reputation wouldn’t be in complete tatters when this was all over, the cover story or not. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

A Father's Search for his Daughter

This book came at just the right time for me. I’ve been reading so many historical romances lately where the heroine is wagered away as a bet on a horserace, to keep debtors from taking the family finances, or literally just to be auction off as chattel to the highest bidder. Now, I understand that last one is a normal occurrence in most HR, but sometimes I miss the days of Mr. Bennett and his “I could not have parted with you, my Lizzy, to anyone less worthy.” So to read a story about a father searching tirelessly for years to find his illegitimate daughter was refreshing. Richard literally kidnaps a woman and risks quite possibly, nowadays, some legal repercussions, to have her with him. 

Looking at his daughter now, a lump formed in his throat at the idea of her suffering. He wouldn’t allow it. He’d murder anyone who ever tried to hurt Harriet, who would be rude to her, or make her cry. 

When faced with danger along their journey, Richard immediately thinks of keeping Harriet safe, she’s his number one priority. 

Richard’s feet carried him forward to snatch up his daughter. God, he’d never let her leave Brayton. He’d lock the door and bar her, anything to ensure her safety. She was small, weighing less than he imagined as he crushed her to him. Her blonde strands lifted and caught in his nose as het let out his breath. 

Putting this in context, he has a similar reaction to Prudence’s safety, however, he’s still a bit hesitant. Again, I chalk this up to a lack of chemistry between the characters. They’ve a large hill in terms of trust to climb, and I don't necessarily believe they’ve ascended the top by the denouement of the novel.  

All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It’s a shorter novel and fast paced, so you can breeze through it . I would highly recommend a nice cup of tea and a warm blanket, hey, maybe even a nice fire as you take in all the romantic action. I will definitely look out for more works by Ava Bond and would be interested to read about other members of the Oxford Set who play minor roles in this novel. 

I don’t think we thank Nora Ephron enough. Like everyday. We need to thank her for providing us with some of the best rom-com tropes and couples in cinematic history. Do you make a yearly watch of You Got Mail during Back to School in order to find solidarity in Kathleen’s (Meg Ryan) love of the smell of school supplies? 

Just me on that one? 

Okay… 

How about Tom Hanks' monologue in Sleepless in Seattle where he talks about how he knew he was destined to be with his, then deceased, wife? It’s what romance writers strive to compose and readers swoon over upon reading. The common denominator through all of Ephron’s stories is New York City. I believe we are entering an Ephronisannce, meaning that we’ve have an influx of books set in New York City. And like an Ephron script, the main couple finds themselves in a love triangle, the city itself playing the third party. Since the beginning of the year, I have read at least 4 new novels that are set in NYC with the backdrop of the boroughs as the centerpiece. The most recent of these is Kate Spencer’s, In A New York Minute. 

A Little Bit Of Plot

Franny Doyle is saved from utter embarrassment on the worst day of her life by Hayes Montgomery III and their misconstrued romantic interaction goes viral. Their next arranged meeting goes horribly wrong, leaving both parties happy to stay strangers. The universe has other ideas however;  Hayes and Franny are forced together at unexpected intervals. Soon both parties realize they have more in common than they previously supposed and find themselves delighted and excited to be in one another’s company. Maybe seemingly opposites do attract.

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

New York City 

Like I spoke of already, I am charmed by NYC as the backdrop and silent 3rd character in any romantic plot. It allows me to experience the city without actually moving there. I loved how Spencer does not sugarcoat some of the more regrettable issues of living in a metropolis, such as the smell of the subway in summer. If you’ve not experienced it yourself, let Spencer describe it for you: 

As I tried to catch my breath, I inhaled the pungent stink of the subway that was set free the second warm air descended upon our fair but smelly city. “Oh my god,” I muttered, holding in a gag. 

Having experienced NYC in the sweltering heat of July, this description triggered a Proust effect and I imagined I was amongst the groups of sweaty and irate populace in an enclosed underground oven. While not enjoyable in the moment, you'd suffer through for walks in Central Park and hot delicious fresh bagels at any time of day. 

Spencer also waxes poetic at times about the beauty of the city. At one point in particular, we get a glimpse into the reason behind Franny’s obsession with her tiny studio apartment on Cranberry street. I don’t want to spoil too much, but here is the exchange between Hayes and Franny as she leads him to her home for the first time: 

Franny steered us down Everit, until we made a left on Cranberry Street. 

“Seriously?” I said as we passed the street sign. “Cranberry Street? That is so quaint it feels like it should be in a movie.”

“It is in a movie.” She tugged her arm out of mine and gave me the eye.

I shook my head. “I have no idea which one.” 

“Hayes,” she said, annoyed but smiling. “Come on. I’ll give you Grease, but this is a New York City classic.”

Honestly, though, I’ve only seen this particular movie once, so I would have been just as out of my depth as Hayes, so I get it. What I love about this particular scene though is that it comes after a night of trying to out ‘New York’ each other. We get a lovely scenic tour of the city through these two characters. 

The Meat (The Con)

Franny has a lot going on in this book. We meet her on one of the worst days of her life thus far, and with many more difficulties on the horizon. I empathize with her and understand that she’s a bit off balance emotionally; however, when presented with two options, she continually chooses the wrong one. At one major point in her relationship with Hayes, her two best friends reluctantly second guess her thought process and are visibly uncomfortable with her decision. 

As the reader, this is the second (Third?) time we’re expected to continue to root for Franny when we can see that she’s completely off base. The saving grace of this book is that it’s told from two perspectives, so each time you get frustrated with Franny, the next chapter will be from Hayes, and you feel like you’re back on track. Honestly, Hayes is such a likable character, he’s like a soft comfortable pillow and cup of tea after Franny’s pissed you off. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

The Realism of Living in NYC

Franny rents her own tiny studio apartment in Brooklyn, which she specifically states that she works a job she doesn't particularly enjoy because it affords her to barely be able to afford the rent. Once she loses this job, her money woes, understandably, take a front seat. If I think back to some of the more recent books set in NYC, the heroine always rented (or owned) a decent sized apartment on their own, with money to spend on dining out, clothes, high end coffee, and entertainment. When Franny is in dire financial straits, you understand her anxiety over her living situation and the ability for her to stay in the city. In one scene in particular, her friends entice her out, but she reneges due to lack of funds. They instead spend the evening on the roof in which they share a bag of popcorn for dinner. 

While Cleo and Lola sipped from cans of Pacifico, I slurped out of my metal water bottle. We passed around a bag of Pirate’s Booty between us. Technically, it was a free meal. I applauded my frugality without letting myself get too depressed that I was thirty years old and eating white cheddar puffs for dinner because I was terrified the business I hadn’t even officially started yet was doomed to go under”. 

Looking back at some of the movies in Ephron’s oeuvre in particular, the heroine always owns a gigantic apartment and has some job that pays average wages (i.e Meg Ryan in literally every one of these movies…I’m looking at you, When Harry Met Sally, in particular). Think about how when Tom Hanks drives her bookstore out of business in You’ve Got Mail, Meg Ryan just goes off and starts writing children's books. No fear of how she’s going to pay her bills, going into bankruptcy, losing her absolutely gorgeous brownstone, nothing. Here we have Franny truly faced with the possibility that she may need to move home and give up. 

I know those are two very unusual pro’s but I think they’re what set this book apart from a number of others with vaguely the same premise set in New York. Although this one has a meet-cute to beat all the others; it’s definitely memorable. Plus, it’s a quick read with a number of grand gestures. Lastly, through one up to the lovely patron saint of NYC romantic comedies, Nora Ephron -  and if you haven't, check out her catalogue of books, movies, and essays. 

I don’t know what’s come over me the past year, but I’ve been delving into some magical historical romance pretty hardcore. Give me some corsets, foppy vampire/mage heroes, societal constraints, and repressed sexuality and I’m all in. Throw in some elves or fairies and you’re tempting me with a real good time. My latest dip into ye olde romance with a magical bent along with a repressed heroine is Improper Mage by Taylor Westwood. Overall, I enjoyed this, I had a few nitpicks here and there, but a worthwhile read. 

A Little Bit of Plot

In the land of Triaedian, real magic is off limits to women. Relegated to limited home tending spells, the female mage community has few outlets or means in which to better themselves outside of landing the perfect husband. Imagine the haute ton of London, with its gossipmongers and self centered foppish males who are either looking for a dowry or a means to an heir. Unbeknownst to literally everyone, even her very understanding and supportive father, Liana Monroe, is the most powerful mage of the time. Forced to study magic through her brother’s hand-me-down spellbooks, Liana, can heal the sick, brew potions, and perform advanced spellwork. While surreptitiously performing an advanced spell, she is observed by the vampire king, Damien Ashwood. Living without a mate for over 100 years, Damien is captivated by Liana and her magic. Soon enough, he courts her with the intention of marriage after living the kingly bachelor life for so long. Liana must decide if Damien is only interested in her magic ability or for true lurve. 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

Damien Flippin’ Ashwood

From jumpstreet Damien is swoon worthy. Who couldn’t resist a gorgeous, dark haired, Tom Ellis looking vampire, with a sense of humor and the ability to deliver the sexiest lines laden with innuendo? No one! That’s who! Well, maybe like Buffy…wait..no..almost forgot about Angel AND Spike. 

Okay, maybe the Winchester brothers…I think Dean would still hit it though. 

As soon as he makes his intentions toward Liana public, he ensures that she’s protected round the clock. Unfortunately, she seems to constantly find trouble while also eluding her guards. After one incident which left her depleted of magic and unable to remain conscious, Damien tends to her. He pulls out the “getting to know you” questions as her defenses are down and she's willing to share more personal information than normal. They discuss a vampire's need for blood and how it’s mostly partaken during times of pleasure. 

“I can smell your arousal. You cannot lie to me.” He leaned forward and pushed aside her hair to breathe in at her neck. She froze, not knowing if he would bite her or not. More importantly, she didn’t know if she wanted to tell him no. “After we are married, I will show you just how pleasurable the bite can be for both of us”.

Liana continues to fight Damien at every turn, however, the more she holds back, the more Damien becomes enamored with her. 

“My ego does not exist when you are around, my little mage. You knock me down every chance you get.”

She nodded. “You’re welcome for keeping you humble, my king.”

The banter between Liana and Damien is enjoyable; however, at times, I just had a little too much of Liana’s obtuseness. This leads into my issue with the book: 

The Meat (The Con)

At times: Liana

If you were to peruse my bookshelf, you would come across many novels devoted to the spunky, intelligent, before her time, bluestocking heroine. While I applaud Liana’s determination to devote her life to magic and never marry, she is literally offered everything she wants on a silver platter and has reservations. At times, I wanted to throttle her and say “chica, this man (vampire) is willing to let you practice your magic, continue learning, and he’s hot as hell”, what more do you want? She also bordered on Mary Sue territory at times; new spells just came easy to her, and she could perform magic unheard of before. Now, I will say that there is some mystery as to her past and where this magic stems from, so we may learn more in subsequent books. 

Although I’m saying all this, I want to be clear: I did like Liana’s character. It’s just sometimes I wanted to flick her on the nose and say “don’t”. Never has there been a character that needed to ‘get some’ more than Liana Monroe. Maybe going to the bone zone on the reg will chill her out a bit. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

The World Building

At times I pictured this as a cross between Bridgerton and Harry Potter, if Hermione was unable to perform magic and forced to marry Marcus Filch or something. The way in which Westwood describes the food, clothing, and atmosphere is very immersive. The ball scenes, in particular, contain abundant descriptions of the ballgowns and jewelry along with the sumptuous food. 

“Liana truly did love the look of the gown. Loved how the designer created lapels of the blue fabric that created a V-shape toward her waist with elaborate embroidery along the edges in shimmering silver thread. Loved the ivory ruffles cascading from her neckline and the way the scalloped edges of the gown flowed downward from the right side of her waist across the front. She still hated how uncomfortable it made her”.

Besides the everyday items, Westwood also spends a great deal of time describing the magic itself. Because Liana is performing feats never before witnessed, there is almost an awe in how her magic is described. 

She didn’t make it five steps before the magic answered her call. It surged from the depths of her core, filling her body. Her entire body glowed a brilliant golden light right before she threw her arms forward and with a roar of vengeance, threw her power out in a rapidly expanding shield of golden light.

Lastly, along with mages and vampires, we are also introduced to shifters (werewolves). Both the vampire and shifter culture allow women much more freedom, and in some cases, are revered. We also learn that dipping your wick cross species in this world is forbidden. Although, I guess it’s overlooked when it’s the hot as hades vampire king who has it bad for an undercover female mage. Needless to say, we do gain substantial insight into each of these species and their standing in the community.

Overall, I enjoyed the heck out of this book. I’d certainly recommend it if you are looking for something with a lot of action and some female empowerment. This is a first in a series, however, so the relationship between Damien and Liana has a lot of room to grow moving forward. The next book is entitled Improper Queen, so I’m assuming she and Damien have tied the knot and have gotten onto full on log’ jammin. I’m definitely interested in seeing how this story will unfold.

On our podcast we have books we wish we could ‘Eternal Sunshine’; meaning to read it fresh every time, making it new and the interactions and beats a surprise each time we crack the spine. I can easily say that Trish Doller’s, A Suite Spot, is one of these Eternal Sunshine reads. I simply adored this book. 

Buckle up folks, this is about to become a damn lovefest. 

A Little Bit of Plot

Single mother Rachel Beck is offered her dream job with one large hitch, it’s managing a brewery hotel on a vacation island off of Lake Erie in Ohio. This means uprooting her daughter, leaving Fort Lauderdale, and taking an enormous leap of faith. Mason Brown is in over his head attempting to get the brewery and hotel up and running by the upcoming vacation season. As a closed off and often grumpy recluse, Mason begins to mend his broken heart with the help of Rachel and Maisie. Rachel gradually begins to see Kelley’s Island and Mason not only as her opportunity to live her dream, but her home.

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

Rachel and Mason

The way in which these two fall in love is so damn realistic and natural that I’ve never been so jealous of fictional characters before in my life. Mason and Rachel are so relatable that you can envision having their same conversations with others in your own life. To be blunt, these are two completely normal average people falling in love and living their best life. And like in real life, there are obstacles and every day issues that make living, at times, more difficult. I could quote this entire book to provide an illustrated example of the realness on display, instead I’ll just provide a few exchanges that resonated with me as I envisioned myself having the same thoughts and conversations.

How Rachel feels about her body: 

My relationship with my body is complicated, and I’m fully aware that relationship doesn’t make me special, unique, or unlike millions of other women in the world. I want to embrace body acceptance, but sometimes I also want to be thinner. It’s comforting to know I’m not the only woman who feels this way, but it’s still complicated.  

When Rachel is faced with a heartbreaking situation

You’ve never been wired that way, but…Anna had it right,” she says. “You’ve experienced a loss-more than one-and you need to grieve. You don’t always have to be the strong one. You’re allowed to fall apart.”

“I don’t want to fall apart. I want the universe to bend my way for once.”

One interaction between Mason and Rachel in particular hit me right in the feels and I can easily say is played out in the absolute best manner. Rachel has so much patience, enough for both of them, and reads Mason’s mental state better than he himself does. I don't want to share that dialogue here - it's better to be read in context.

OMG, this book, you guys! 

The Meat (The Con)

I want more of Mason and Rachel as a couple, I’m upset that this is the last book in the Beck sister series as I would love more of a glimpse of what the future looks like for them. Never have I been interested in the everyday routines of a fictional couple before. Truthfully, I live near Kelley’s Island, so part of my disappointment is that this brewery and couple are fictional as I want to visit there and meet them. We could be friends!  Argh!

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

Cultural Diversity

Mason is half Japanese and when we meet him he is becoming immersed in his mother’s culture. In the past, he rejected his heritage so as not to be labeled different or ‘othered’. The first real intentional interaction between Maisie (Rachel’s daughter) and Mason involves his preparation of Japanese gyokuro green tea. The fact that he's sharing this culture with Maisie is so meaningful and has such emotional depth.

Their heads nearly touch as they watch together, her yogurt forgotten, and I get an airy feeling in my chest. Despite his reluctance, Mason is very good with Maisie… 

“Can I have some?” Maisie says, reaching for his cup. 

“You can, but remember that even though it’s warm, it’s not sweet like cocoa. You might not like it.”

Maisie takes the tiniest of sips and her nose crinkles with distaste. “Mm. It’s good.”

Mason fights a grin. “You sure?”

She nods. “But maybe I’ll save some for later.”

Similarly, Rachel’s mother is a German immigrant. She and her sister both speak fluent German and cook authentic native foods. They always says “Ich liebe dich (I love you)” to one another as though it strikes a stronger chord than the English translation. I’m a sucker for learning about other cultures and languages, so this book hit in all the right places for me.  Additionally, both Rachel and Mason's heritage play huge roles in the beer creation. The fact that most beer is German in heritage and is instrumental in forming a bond between the two is not surprising. 

Each chapter opens with a foreign word along with it’s dictionary entry. The word provides a preview of what will occur in the chapter. For example, this is the header for Chapter 6:

Depaysement

French

“A feeling of restlessness that comes with being away from your country of origin and feeling like a foreigner; a mix of disorientation and culture shock”

What follows is the crux of what will be the main ‘conflict’ of the novel, or the obstacle that must be overcome before they can move forward. Rachel questions whether or not their arrangement will work and contemplates moving back to Florida. After speaking with Mason and learning about his past, she realizes what he is battling with mentally, and decides to alter her interactions with him to alleviate some of the pressure. Again, she’s so emotionally intelligent and extremely patient. Mason himself is so thoughtful and willing to put in the work emotionally to grow. 

I love this damn book!

If you haven’t gleaned from my thoughts above how I feel about this book, I’m not doing my job well. If you are looking for a light read with realistic characters falling in love gradually with just a tiny bit of angst, you’re in for a treat. I highly recommend this and the first in the Beck Sisters series, Float Plan. Also, shout out to Cedar Point amusement park! Woot! Woot!

On our podcast there are a few things that we love, one being constantly harassing Safe Lite into eventually sponsoring us and romance novels based on or centered around the publishing business. I think the last few books that I've read either for the podcast or for 'funzies' have included bibliophiles of some sort.  It book nerds loving other book nerds in some weird romance novel ouroboros.

As I’ve indicated a number of times my dislike of angst laden storylines and am happy to report that while By Any Other Name by Lauren Kate features a NYC publishing house, the level of angst stays relatively low. My little grinch heart can't take too much turmoil. 

Unfortunately, due to the ambiguous nature of the plot, this review will be brief. Spoiler free zone!

A Little Bit of Plot

Lainie Bloom (who I continually kept hearing Laney Boggs in my head - shout out to all my fellow She's All That fans) has become the youngest romance editor at Peony Publishing - but on a contingent basis. Her client, the best selling phenom, Noa Calloway, is 3 months behind on their manuscript and suffering from the worst case of writer's block. For 7 years, Lainie and Noa communicated strictly via email or through their online chess games; no one (besides Lainie’s boss) has ever laid eyes on the elusive writer. As Lainie struggles to keep Noa on track and the upcoming deadline looming, she also begins to question whether or not her fiance truly checks off her ‘99 things’ love list. Will love win out in the end?

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

This is going to be a difficult review for me, not because I didn’t enjoy the book, but because I am loath to spoil anything regarding the plot. Although, I’m sure if you’ve read the description, you can get an idea of the twists involved. Needless to say, I loved the final revelation of this book. This is an extremely slow burn, so please be aware, however, the ending is broadcast quite loudly around the ½ way point. When I realized which direction the book was taking I immediately brightened. Not to say that I didn’t like the book up to that point, it was like a puzzle piece settling into place. It truly is difficult to describe the main protagonists without spoiling anything, so I'll just say that I loved everyone in this book - except Ryan. Ryan can EAD (not in a good way).

The Meat (The Con)

The book is a bit of a cock tease, and I mean that in a non-malicious manner. Lainie and her friends constantly discuss sex, masturbation, one night stands and we see none of it. For Lainie’s own sanity, I only hoped that the girl would get to log jammin’ with someone, but alas…no such luck. It doesn't downgrade stars for me, but it is kind of a small let down.

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

The Delightful Side Characters

Between Lainie’s two closest friends Rufus and Meg and her delightful grandmother, BD (Bubby Dora), the side characters in this novel are quite engaging. A number of times during this novel I yearned to be adopted by BD. 

“Yes, but that was fictional kismet,” BD says and winks at me. “You are my real, live granddaughter, whom I’m proud of and believe in. You are going to rise to this occasion like a Tinder date with a pocket full of Viagra”.

FYI, BD is extremely sex positive and not afraid to push Lainie into being uninhibited too. Together with Rufus and Meg, the three create a little cheering section for Lainie’s sexual health. 

“Is that eyeliner I see? And a hint of bosom! Are you in a Lyft?”...”You know,” BD says with a wink, “sex with a stranger is double mitzvah on Shabbat!”

“I’m not sure the ‘stranger’ part is actually in the Torah,” I say, “Hey, can I ask you something?”

“You can always ask me about sex toys-”

How could you not love this lady? 

If you are looking for a very romantic and touching slow burn romance with just a hint of spice, look no further. One other thing I would say is that I’d have loved an epilogue or a follow up book. It takes so long to get to the denouement, that I wanted to sit with the couple a little longer. 

I am sincerely loving this trend of romance novels to which the hero falls first and falls hard. I need to come up with a moniker for it: “First and Hard” - yeah, probably doesn’t fit the vibe I’m going with on that one. I’ll continue marinating on it and see what bubbles up. Anywho, as I was saying, I’m thoroughly enjoying the trend (even with modern set romance novels) where we have a sensitive, underlyingly good, and kind man who upon meeting the heroine, becomes unwillingly enraptured. Sophie Jordan’s, The Rake Gets Ravished, the second in the Duke Hunt series, fits into the “First to Fall Hard” (Still not there…better though) category. I was pleasantly surprised by this book; I have not read anything from Ms. Jordan’s oeuvre, and I wasn’t completely sold on the premises, however, it definitely surpassed my expectations. 

A Little Bit of Plot

When Mercy Kittinger’s wastrel of a twin brother gambles away the farm to gaming hell owner and notorious rake Silas Masters, the task of retrieving the wager (by illegal means if necessary) falls to her. One act of seduction later and Mercy flees into the night, wager in hand and a solitary night of passion that will last in her memory forever. Upon discovering her duplicitousness, Silas tracks Mercy down on the family farm and imposes himself on the household for an unknown amount of time. During his stay, Silas begins to view Mercy as more than just an alluring larcenist; the ‘heat’ is still very present between and both try valiantly to resist. Tale as old as time, am I right? 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

The Hidden Depths of Silas Masters (ooooh…I like that!  Sounds like a mystery novel.)

“Most women who are looking for Silas Masters know what he looks like. That is why they are looking for him.”

Just like every other hero in a romance novel, Silas Masters, is not only shredded like lettuce, but drop dead gorgeous. Just check out the cover of the novel, yowie wowie, I’d master him anyday. (I’m gonna give myself a 4/10 on that one -  didn’t stick the landing). What is not evident upon meeting Silas is his kind heartedness and almost possessive support he provides. Within a day of arriving at the farm, he has taken up working the land beside Mercy against the remonstrances of her brother. 

Speaking of Bede Kittinger, I may be reading too much into this, however, it seems as though Silas is drawn to be the absolute opposite. Where Bede is lazy, pretentious, and dishonorable, Silas is industrious, honest, and magnanimous. 

“It appears they could use some help.” Silas nodded toward the stuck plow. Kittinger followed his gaze and gave a mild shrug.

Silas gestured toward the trio. “That is your sister,” he stated, as though that might have some impact on Kittinger’s unwillingness to lend aid.

Kittinger squinted across the distance. “Oh, I say. It is Mercy.” He sniffed. “In trousers. Our mother must be rolling over in her grave. Mercy has always been a rather untraditional female.”

This feels like a last straw with Silas in regard to Bede, for he hops down from the horse, and assists in the freeing of the plow, much to the astonishment of Mercy and the farmhands. 

Bede, on the other hand, never has that moment of realization or ‘come to Jesus’. 

Lastly, as not to spoil anything regard the plot, I will say that upon finding Mercy on the farm and witnessing the disregard that Bede has for both his family and the land, Silas almost immediately forgives Mercy and through his actions ensures that Bede will be prohibited from squandering away the livelihood of his family in the future. 

Y’all, the Grand Gesture is pretty awesome in this book, too. 

The Con

Oh how I needed Bede to receive the comeuppance he deserved. Again, to avoid spoilers, all I will say is that he does something exceedingly terrible and has little remorse for his actions. The fact that Silas didn’t murder him speaks volumes to his character. I wanted to stuff a pillow over Bede’s stupid handsome face while he slept by the end. He gets off pretty lenient, and the only reason I can think of as to why is that this isn’t the last we’ve heard of Bede. Maybe Jordan has her own redemption plan for Mr. Kittinger. I’ve read enough villainous redemption stories this past year that I'd certainly be interested. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

This is one spicy Meatball!

“There is” - she paused, searching for the word to best explain what she was feeling, what swirled on the air around them - “heat between us. Surely you feel it, too.”

YAS, GIRL, YAS, we ALL feel the heat. Kids, this book is steamy as hell. Four alarm, panty scorching, hotter than a stolen tamale, sexy read. I’m not going to spoil too much of the sensuous banter, but I’m going to include a couple of my favorite quotes. 

“I shall spend myself before we have done even half the things we want to do.” 

She made another dive for him. “But I want - “

“No,” he said emphatically dodging her and rolling her over so that she could not take him in her hungry fingers again. “Show me something else you want.” 

Really? Because I can show you a lot, Silas. 

I read a review that indicated it was unbelievable that a virgin would be knowledgeable enough to seduce anyone at that time in history.  While I can understand where the reviewer was coming from, I think Jordan handled the explanation as to Mercy’s familiarity with sexuality quite deftly. 

In her bed at night, by candlelight, she read those pages and studied those images until she knew all there was to know about copulation. All the various positions…all the places that mouths and tongues could be placed. To say nothing of hands. She would close her eyes and imagine her hands belonging to someone else. It was always a faceless stranger. A man with big, solid hands and hard cock.

Yup, I think that gives me enough backstory as to why Mercy’s quite keen on scaling Silas like he was the tallest redwood in Yosemite and she just bought some new climbing boots. Mercy knows what she likes and isn’t afraid to take it. 

Overall, this was a delightful, low-angst romp and a quick read. I am interested to delve into more of Sophie Jordan’s work and the next installment of the Duke Hunt series. 

I still need Bede to get taken to task at some point though..like stockyards at noon flogging.

I’ll be on the lookout. 

Please let me try and keep calm while I’m writing this. I received an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review of A Perfect Equation by Elizabeth Everett. I’m coming down from a historical, enemies-to-lovers, bluestocking, hero with issues, romance euphoria right now. It’s that good high where your body is totally relaxed and everything is just fine, not that one where you’ve been watching the Hallmark channel for what feels like an hour and it’s actually only been 3 minutes and you can’t remember the basic plot of the movie. 

We’ve all been there, right? 

Right, guys?

A Little Bit of Plot

Letiticia Fenley, mathematician extraordinaire, understands too well what scandal can do to a woman’s reputation. As such, she is less than thrilled when tasked to lead Athena’s Retreat, a female- only club which provides shelter for scientific discovery and experimentation in 1850’s London. Alongside to assist her as co-director is her arch nemesis, Lord William Hughes, Viscount Greycliff (or Grey). Letty is well aware of Grey’s view of her and her scandalous reputation as he was the one to cast the first aspersions. The chemistry in this book isn’t just coming from the experimentation rooms. They can barely stand to be in the same room together, when danger arrives how will they join forces to save the club they are both duty bound to lead? When they do join forces will it be opposites attract or combustion at first sight?

The Top Bun

The Chemistry (Mostly Grey’s Not So Secret Obsession With Letty)

When I say that Grey is obsessed with Letty, I mean it in the most innocuous of terms. We aren’t talking Penn Badgley - You - obsessed, more along the lines of wanting to touch her constantly. Let’s say how I feel while watching Tom Ellis in Lucifer - I just want to run my hands along those pant suits. 

We first see Grey saving Letty from an unyielding mob which leads to this interaction: 

This close, he could catch a faint scent of orange blossom and something tantalizingly familiar. Leaning in, he closed his eyes and inhaled, lungs filling with the sweet scent of vanilla. 

How unexpected.

Letty Fenley smelled like cake.

“Are you smelling my hair?” she asked. 

He opened his eyes, disconcerted. “No. I’m not…smelling your hair”.

FYI guys, Grey is constantly smelling her hair. 

Later in the novel: 

Removing his gloves, he combed his fingers through her hair, still soft and–he leaned in—still smelling of cake.

And again here:

The more nonchalant he acted, the whiter the skin at his knuckles as he held on to the glass bottle stop. He sniffed the air. “Have you been eating cake?”

We have one of my favorite sub-tropes of the enemies-to-lovers analogy, one in which the hero is (not so) secretly in love with the heroine from ‘jump street’. While Grey might not recognize the emotion that he’s experiencing is love per se, we, as the reader, can see all the hallmarks of a man fighting a losing battle with his heart. 

In regard to the heroine, I have the utmost respect for Letty, who for all intents and purposes, has the absolute right to tell Grey to shove his self-righteousness up his ass and refuse to work with him. While she won’t admit it, she loves the club and the very odd women that frequent its experimentation rooms. She suffers Grey and his sanctimonious view of her past with aplomb. Suddenly, she finds herself attracted to this frustratingly charming yet cold man. She fights against this attraction due to their very volatile history. 

Grey steepled his long fingers, setting the tips to his mouth. This drew her attention to the cleft in his chin and, from there, downward, to where he’d loosened his cravat, revealing the column of his throat and a darkened hollow at the base. The sight woke a subtle awareness in her of his body and the narrow distance between them in the snug chamber. 

We flashback to the confrontation between Grey and Letty which led to her ousting of London society. To say it was an explosive event is an understatement. I think a lot can be said about Everett’s storycrafting that she can redeem this hero as well she has in spite of the horrific things that are said about Letty in this exchange. To actively root for this man after, in essence, ruining her, is a wonder and Everett should be applauded for her character building. 

The Con

Honestly, there’s not too much to dislike with this novel. If I had to choose something, I would say, I wish Letty’s climactic event had turned out differently, however, I think for storytelling purposes, it works well. 

Te Bottom Bun (The Pro)

This book is gorgeously written. I could fill this page with quotes from the book. I won’t do that however, but I will provide some of my favorites.

Upon their first and then subsequent second kiss: 

How could a gentle touch to the smallest part of her affect her entire body? The question fluttered through her mind. Perhaps a reaction of the nervous system to various stimuli…But the rest of the theory left her brain along with any other rational thought.

Once Letty and Grey make amends and she is forced to re-enter society: 

“Look at me looking at you,” he repeated. “I am looking at a beautiful woman. A woman who inspires others, who is fiercely loyal, and who has a brilliant, stunning mind. Even though most of what people say goes over her head.” He paused. “Because she is ridiculously short”... “You have no reason to hide from them,” Grey declared. “You are brave, and you are good. Shine, Letty.”...”Let them see you shine”.

Lastly, if you aren’t already in love with Grey, here he is arguing against society’s archaic belief of virginal purity: 

“We do not have the right to discount a woman’s worth - her intelligence, her bravery, her heart - simply because of the state of her hymen.” 

Lord William Hughes, Viscount Greycliff can get it. Get it every day and twice on Sunday.

I recommended this book on our last podcast episode and stated that this might be one of my favorite new books of the last few years and that’s the absolute truth. You have strong male leads that support and protect women’s rights, which in itself is so damn sexy. The women in question are extremely self sufficient, intelligent, and know their worth. We even have transgender and same sex couples, who are treated with respect and normalcy and to which the hero supports and provides advocacy. 

I can’t say enough about this gorgeous novel.

His Lessons on Love - Cathy Maxwell

We’ve encountered another book for which I’m perched right in the middle of the proverbial fence. Cathy Maxwell’s His Lessons on Love keeps flinging me around like a wooden gate in a windstorm. We have a Regency era enemies-to-lovers, with a marriage of convenience, and a rags to riches transformation - what’s not to love? Well, dear readers, a situation arises in which in any normal historical romance, the conflict would have righted itself when the hero abandoned their misguided quest and fell helplessly in love with the heroine. Not the case here.

A Little Bit of Plot

The Earl of Marsden has a problem. A wriggling, wet, wailing, and wonderful problem. His former mistress leaves him with an unexpected care package - his previously unknown baby daughter, Dora. Left with very few options, Mars turns to the last person he’d ever willingly seek out, spinster Clarissa Taylor. Unemployed with no prospects, Clarissa has no choice but to accept the position of nanny to Mar’s child, and as luck would have it, within hours, finds herself in a marriage of convenience. Mars enters the marriage without reluctance,  as he is facing a situation which may leave Clarissa a widow but ensures his daughter has a loving mother.

The Top Bun (The Pro)

The Animosity

In some enemies-to-lovers books, the rift between the hero and heroine is often based on something frivolous, and they quickly make amends. In this novel, however, while they do make amends, both recognize and honestly discuss their animosity, eventually making an accord through their mutual love of Dora. 

I will also admit that their differences are based on personal preference - she considers him a rake, he sees her as a prudish know-it-all. 

Are both correct? 

Yes.

When each admits that they other's view of them may be correct, they move closer to common ground. 

“You find me arrogant.”

“Aye, you are arrogant. However, what I don’t like is that you believe your arrogance is excusable. After all, you are the wealthy, entitled Earl of Marsden. Why shouldn’t you do as you wish, even if it inconveniences others? It is just your due. I find it disgraceful that a man who has been given so much does so little.”...

“What annoys me about you, Miss Taylor, is your strong desire to be a matron-in-training…You are judgmental and you always have been. Even when you were shorter than a stump…i don’t even like your given name. Clarissa. You were preordained to prissiness.”

They both realize that in order to properly care for Dora, however, they need to make amends. 

Additionally, I was quite impressed with Mar’s acceptance of his daughter and the lengths he goes to acknowledge her legitimacy as his heir. In comparison, Clarissa makes the decision to become caregiver to this tiny baby without a second thought, she falls in love with Mars, however, against her better judgment. 

The Meat (The Con)

NO GRAND GESTURE (GG)

As I am going to recommend this book, I refuse to spoil the main conflict that arises. Let’s just say that Mars ignores Clarissa’s pleas to abandon his plans for revenge. 

When I say pleads, we are talking on her knees weeping for him to change his mind and he doesn’t. Additionally, let me add that this plan involves someone who is knowingly close to Clarissa and will knowingly emotionally wound her. 

Dick move, sir…dick…move. 

Needless to say, I needed a GG, like Last of the Mohicans “I WILL FIND YOU” self-sacrificing level awesomeness to correct this. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

This is not the GG you’re looking for…but I’ll take it. 

Again, I’m not going to spoil anything but I will say that Mars does come back with hat in hand begging for forgiveness. While he makes an adult and grownup gesture of penance, I wish the circumstances had been such that a GG was not needed. In the end, he must know his wife better than the reader, as she grants him forgiveness with little hesitation. 

“There are some things I don’t ever want you to change, my lord. I like your stubbornness. It matches mine.”

“Oh no, you are far more stubborn”.

Clarissa swallowed a laugh. “Are you arguing with me?”

“I hope so. I want to argue with you every day for the rest of my life. Do you understand? Circumstances may have thrown us together, but I love you, Rissa. Even when you push me in directions I don’t want to go. I need the push. I need you.”

If you are looking for a quick enemies-to-lovers historical romance, you could do worse. I will definitely seek out Kathy Maxwell’s other works; moreover, I'll finish this series in particular. Maxwell has created two spectacular characters that while they accept their own personal flaws, find ways to overcome and grow, not only individually but as a couple. 

How to Love Your Neighbor - Sophie Sullivan

I’m all at 6’s and 7’s with this review.

Now that I think about it, what the f&^% does that mean? 6’s and 7’s… 

From freedictionary.com “Frazzled or disorganized. The phrase likely originated from a dice game in which rolling a six or a seven was unfavorable.” 

Well, the first one fits; not much of a gambler enough for the second. Honestly, I’m such a nerd that I know the phrase from “Don’t Cry For Me, Argentina” from Evita. Fight me, musical theatre nerds.

Anywho, this book has me teetering between a book I liked and one I wanted to throw out the window. 

Let’s dig into How to Love Your Neighbor by Sophie Sullivan. Maybe I’ll come to a consensus after I get some of this out on paper. 

A Little Bit of Plot

Interior Design student Grace Travis has inherited a house from her long lost grandparents in beautiful oceanside California. Noah Jansen, NYC real estate mogul and finance wunderkind has purchased the house next door. Noah wants Grace…to sell her house to him so he can install a pool and be featured in high end designer magazines. (I have a lot of questions here…first off, who is buying said magazines? Secondly, as my buddy Egon Spengler quoted, 'print is dead'). Tensions ratchet higher as Grace refuses to give in to Noah’s demands. Suddenly, a high end designer magazine (either Hearty Home, Hearth and Home, or Heart and Home…depends on whether the author remembered what she called it previously), wants to feature Noah’s house reconstruction in a 3 issue spread if Grace will lead the design. Handing off a multi-million dollar reno to a literal Interior Design student with no experience - because the would-be editor thought she and the hero had chemistry. 

:blink: :blink:.

Okay! 

Can they fall in love in a month or something? Will she let her guard down for the hot millionaire who buys her brownies and wants to do the horizontal mambo? It’s anyone’s guess!! 

Spoiler: she does. 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

Grace Travis

Enter my confusion with this book. We have a heroine that I absolutely loved from jump street. She’s spunky, intelligent, and doesn’t give in under pressure. Coming from a terrible upbringing with her succubus of a mother, Grace has been able to carve out a solid academic background and promising career on her own. She works multiple jobs and scrimps to save up into kickstarting her life at the back end of her twenties. Where other women would have a career and family at this age, we see a possible future as a successful Interior Designer while simultaneously renovating a beautiful paid-off home on the beach in Anaheim. Girl has her shit together. 

There was no more waiting. All the things she’d patiently been putting aside were right here, within her grasp. Her life right now was a series of boxes she was checking off and the feeling was pure bliss. Finishing up school? Check. Settling into a home you own? Check. Good friends? Check. Job prospects? Check. Life was moving along just fine, thank you very much. It was like she could see her lonely, rootless self slipping farther away in the rearview mirror.

Part of me rallied so hard for Grace; girlfriend was doing it for herself, then suddenly, Noah arrives. 

Don’t get me wrong, he was fine, like the existence of the dog in the burning room is fine. (Side note: I've discovered that my ultimate insult anymore is to say something is just 'fine'. Like: "Oh you substituted my diet coke for diet faygo (like in what world?)..it's fine. It's fine.)

Noah's character is just not as drawn out as Grace. He constantly gripes about this perceived persecution complex because his family and friends don’t believe he’s reliable. Unfortunately, we aren't privy to any occurrences where in which his reliability is in question. We have one instance where he cancels dinner with Grace but has a completely valid excuse for not attending. 

As a reader, he comes off more of an agro whiner than a sympathetic hero. A number of times he questions whether or not Grace has the ‘know how’ to mend a fence or change a lock. Sullivan has him almost tripping over himself claiming it’s not because she’s a woman. Um, yeah, I call bullsh*t. Additionally, he has a few other lines to her that if a guy said the same thing to me, I might just lightly tap him in the balls as I walked away ..maybe not full out haiduken. But we do see him apologize a number of times for these gaffs. He actually says that she’s the first “first woman I’ve properly apologized to, but not the only one I should have”. 

Wut? Da fuq? 

You know what Grace? Run. 

Or you are going to be listening to reruns of the Joe Rogan podcast for the rest of your life and being second guessed as to whether you can change your own tire.

The Meat (The Con)

I have several things that didn’t work for me in this book. It’s absolutely repetitive and plot threads go no where. Noah works with his friend Rob at a local community center for kids. We see him interact twice with them and then nothing. Suddenly, however, at the end of the book, Noah’s attempting to raise money to open his own community center or helping to fund Rob’s center..I literally have no idea. It’s not clear. It's such a throw away plot line that it's almost insulting. Mostly the underprivileged kids are used as a device to illustrate Noah's 'staying power'. Cool.

We have a plot line involving Noah’s father that’s never resolved or explained. Also, in the end of the novel two characters team up in a business venture, but the wording is so vague, I couldn’t tell you which two. 

I hate to say this but there are grammatical and usage mistakes all over the place. Like I mentioned in my intro, the name of the magazine is presented in a number of different ways, characters are misnamed, and general grammatical errors exist. The whole book just needs to be tightened up and given another read through by an editor. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

In general, the side characters are likable: from her elderly friend/pseudo grandpa Morty, to Noah’s smartass assistant Josh, everyone dovetailed easily into the narrative. I will say that we could keep Noah’s brother Chris and his girlfriend Everly, but remove his other brother Wes and friends Rob and Stacey all together. We are also introduced to Shane, who we believe is a rival for Grace’s affections.

Nope. 

Cut him. 

We are introduced to Grace’s friends from the coffee shop at the beginning of the novel and they disappear after the 2nd chapter - 

Cut ‘em. 

All these superfluous characters are detracting from the meandering plot. While they all are wonderful sketches of random likable characters, we are missing whole swathes of plot to which I’d rather have resolution than wonder what Shane does in his downtime. 

The one character that I wanted to learn more about was Grace’s mother Tammy. Honestly, I pictured her as Melissa McCarthy from the movie of the same name. She appears at the end of the novel and is presented as such a disgusting and horrible scapegrace that I needed to know more. Moreover, Noah indicates that she’s the female version of his father. Really? We need to meet his father! I need to see these two in a room together! As this book is told from dueling perspectives and we only are privy to interactions with Grace and her mother, we are losing an entire dimension of Noah’s character in relation to his father and family.

Okay...breathing...

I’m rereading what I’ve written and I sound like a snob. I’m not sure if getting these thoughts out on paper have helped me to clear up what I think about this novel. 

I’m going to lightly recommend How To Love Your Neighbor with the disclaimer that if you feel the need to skim at any moment, you won’t be missing any important plot points. Believe me, they probably weren't there to begin with. If you are looking for a light, low angst, small fizzle book, you could do worse. Also, if someone can give me the 4-1-1 on what that friggin’ magazine is actually called, I’ll give you one of our car magnets. 

In early 2021, I stumbled upon this new independent author named Greer Rivers on TikTok. She had one book recently released and another coming out soon. I love finding new authors and hers was listed as romantic suspense. 

Smut with suspense seasoned with military heroes? Count me in. One-click that shit.

The Conviction series consists of interconnected standalones in which each couple gets a HEA.

Dearest readers, I was hooked immediately. Jaybird and Jules drew me in. Then Devil surprised me with how not-creepy his obsession with Ellie was. And then Snake went and helped Naomi escape her abusive fiance while quickly developing a sweet parental relationship with her daughter Thea. 

Meanwhile, Nora is helping everyone out, but staying firmly on the sidelines. It’s obvious (to me, anyway) that she’s dealing with some pretty severe PTSD, but is just pushing on through because that’s what she does.

But all the way back in the first book, Nora and Draco dealt with their own traumatic experience together, and ever since, I’ve been waiting to see how all of that would get resolved. 

Without further ado, here’s Healing Conviction from Greer Rivers.

The Plot

Picking up about 2 months after the concluding events of Breaking Conviction (Snake and Naomi), Draco is recovering from the injuries he sustained during the first book. (For those trying to figure out the full timeline, this would mean that all four books take place within about a 15-16 month period of time – books 2 and 3 have overlapping timelines.)

The human trafficking ring in the county is not slowing down, and instead they’re just looking for new ways to get around the tightening scrutiny. In usual suspense/Greer Rivers form, you have chapters from the villain’s perspective – and I have to say, this villain is the least infuriating of all of them thus far. I actually felt bad for her.

It’s a “simple” recon mission that sets up the main action for Draco and Nora. 

Top Bun: Draco, Draco, Draco

I have been waiting for Draco since book one. Rivers does a great job setting him up as a mysterious character, providing enough tidbits to make you curious, but never so little that you forget about him. The man has been in a coma for a literal year. Two entire books went down while he was unconscious and I still wanted to know how he got his HEA.

As we’d expect, Draco comes with his own set of baggage, and a massive carry-on full of guilt for his role in Nora’s trauma from book one. He’s clearly in love with Nora way before anything happens between them – he may not *know* he’s in love with her, but he totally is. 

The thing is, Nora is struggling with so much PTSD, and not just from the events in book one (although she’s also got a carry-on stuffed to the brim with guilt). She has a whole host of childhood trauma and she’s terrified of ever getting too close to someone. 

But Draco… oh, Draco. He is so patient with her. 

Draco knows her. He knows that if he pushes her too hard, she’ll bolt, but he knows that she needs to be pushed sometimes. He knows what all her facial expressions mean and he can tell which smiles are fake. He also knows she’s fiercely independent and needs to be able to do her own thing or she’ll feel suffocated.

Just as fiercely independent as Nora is, Draco is as fiercely protective of her and it’s just awesome to watch.

Fave Draco quote: “If you don’t trust me with everything, then how am I gonna know that you forgive me for getting kidnapped? For failing you so miserably before? How am I supposed to forgive myself if I don’t know you can?”

Bonus Fave: “You’re sexy when you commit crimes.”

The Meat: Feeling Empathy for the Villain

This is something we’ve talked about on the podcast – if we really hate a character, we’re inclined to make that our con, or the meat of our sandwich. But then we really think about it and we realize that… if we hate the character so much, it’s because they’re well-written. And then we feel conflicted.

So this time, the meat of my sandwich is actually that Greer Rivers managed to make me feel empathy for Gail. (Not Stefan though.)

In the first book, I did feel a bit of empathy for the villain because he was trying to help the good guys in his own way (and by that I mean, in a way that won’t get him caught). Did I think he was a coward? Yes. But I did feel a little bad for him because he didn’t realize what he was getting into and then he didn’t know how to get out of it.

In the second book, I didn’t feel empathy for the villain because I already knew he was a shithead from book one and I didn’t care that his backstory had some sadness in it.

In the third book, I felt no empathy whatsoever for that abusive asshole. I literally cheered outloud when (spoiler!!!) Naomi stabbed him in the neck with that gorgeous green high heel. 

But Gail? Damn. I do feel bad for her. And she helped Draco and Nora. 

I felt bad for the VILLAIN. Someone who was trafficking women! How dare you, Greer?!

Bottom Bun: Watching Nora Come Back to Life

The first thing Draco says to Nora when he wakes up is “Your hair’s different.” 

Before Draco lost a year of his life to a coma, the Nora he knew was vibrant, complete with brightly dyed hair and colored contacts. When he woke up, she was shades of black and grey. Still her same gorgeous self, but the light in her was gone. 

We saw it ourselves as readers. In the second book, her hair was black and she was generally charming and upbeat, but we saw some chinks in the armor during book three when she’s talking to Naomi.

I’ve said it on the podcast and I’m sure I’ll say it a hundred more times: I love a good character arc. Not all novels in the romance genre (or subgenre) feature a heroine with lessons to learn or a growth arc, but in my opinion all the best ones do.

Learning more about Nora’s backstory and the hurdles she needs to jump over in order to accept the fact that she’s in love with Draco is a pure delight to me. It’s one of my very favorite things to read a story about a woman with trauma who overcomes it and allows herself to love a worthy man.

I don’t– I don’t relate to it at all. That has nothing at all to do with it. 

And also the way she and Draco work together on their mission is just… awesome. Forced proximity is never a bad trope in my book (zing!) and I loved their honest discussions when Draco finally started pushing instead of being patient. 

Fave Nora quote (from her internal monologue): “Obviously I like you, you sexy, grumpy Viking we dream. I wish I could ride your longship to Valhalla and back again but I know my heart won’t survive the trip.”

Bonus Fave (also from internal monologue): “Brain, you are screwing things up. Chill out. Eat our waffle.” 

(Also I wanted waffles so bad while reading this book. I should really have put this under the meat because I hate cleaning the waffle iron, so I never actually make waffles. Might be getting carryout this weekend.)

Ratings:

Eggplants: 🍆🍆🍆.5

Hearts: 💜💜💜

The Secret Witch of Kriegspiel - S.L. Prater

 I love trigger warnings. Okay, that didn’t sound good - I love when authors are invested in providing their readers with the best experience when sharing their work. I’ve never turned away a book due to what is outlined in the TW disclaimer; it just means I can better prepare myself for descriptions or plot points that may invoke distressing memories. That being said, if you can add a little levity to your disclaimer, I may fall in instalove with you. The first line of S.L. Prater’s “The Secret Witch of Kriegspiel” was one such book. 

This book is naughty. It contains adult content, some foul lanugage, sensual dialogue, mild spanking, and numerous sexually explicit scenes between consenting characters. 

Precise and to the point while also being a little bit cheeky. This chutzpah carries throughout the novel -  Brava, S.L. I found this novel absolutely delightful and, in fact, a bit naughty. 

Additionally, this must be the year in which all of my kinks come to fruition - with this series, a certain other priestly erotica novel, and Midnight Mass, I think priests are up there for me with Sebastian Stan and Rege-Jean Page reenacting any scene from Secretary. But not like Da Vinci Code priests..blech…not the spanking I’m looking for. 

A Little Bit of Plot

We have a friends/enemies to lovers, epistolary, steampunk, Victorian era, fantasy, romance: this was exactly the book I didn’t know I was looking for. The world in which we meet David and Ana, natural magic exists and priests can not only marry but are encouraged to collect wives. Ana, having been ‘paired’ to David against her will, holds a deep seated loathing of her husband. We learn through letters exchanged throughout the year prior to their wedding, David promised to release Ana from the betrothal and ensure that they would not be paired. We meet the couple during their less than harmonious newlywed stage, determining this was not the case. David refuses to divulge what altered his opinion on the pairing and why he is determined to reestablish his friendship with his wife. 

As provost of the all male priestly college, Kriegspiel, David bargains intimacy with Ana in return for allowing her to attend classes. As the only female student, Ana must not only stay in topform academically but stay on alert physically as danger lurks around every corner. All the while, protecting herself and her heart. 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

The Pacing 

The easy manner in which we enter the world of the novel is quite remarkable. Unlike a lot of fantasy novels, we don’t experience that first chapter exposition dump. While this is second novel in the series, I didn’t find myself lost or befuddled by any particular subset of the world. For instance, here is how Prater describes the different aspects of magic: 

Like witches, priests were capable of using their magics, but men of the Church of the Cloth rebuked the natural essence, which was more powerful and more unpredictable, for a gentler spiritual magic achieved through rites and strict prayers. 

Now maybe it’s because I grew up Catholic and I can draw parallels between religious rites of differing sects that I find this easy to comprehend. Honestly, I find it to be very accessible. I will also state that I ended up reading the books out of order (because of course I did) and I naturally made more connections with the first book in the series, The Wicked Witch of Kriegspiel. The magic doesn’t make you feel like an outsider though; while it generally intrigued me, I wasn’t frustrated that I didn’t have all the answers immediately. 

The novel moves at quite a quick clip. The general plot occurs within a few months' time, but once Ana begins to attend classes, the action ratchets up. Similarly, the first book in the series is also quite quickly paced. Additionally, Prater utilizes their epistolary exchanges to parallel the progression in plot. For example, in one of the more intimate scenes in the book, we are privy to a letter that David pens, yet never sends and it provides even more depth to what the characters are experiencing at that moment. The letters definitely showcased an affection that was developing between the two, much to Ana's despair, and they paralleled the rebuilding of their tenuous relationship

The Meat (The Con)

I want to know more about the world and the magics. I’d like to know the extent of what witches can in fact wield. To me, being able to wield natural magics and perform what an all healing ‘witches kiss’ should allow the females in this society more power. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

Multi-faceted Lead Characters

In both Kriegspiel novels that I read, the heroes were closeted feminists. Both made decisions and exerted their power not to control the heroines, but to allow them to grow in a safe environment. The heroines themselves were strong willed, intelligent, and illustrated courage in the face of misogyny. Ana, in particular, faces a number of instances in which she must either defend herself physically or stand up for her ‘witchly’ beliefs. David performs a Grand Gesture (GG) that had me falling in love with him; however, the situation itself is frustrating as the misogyny is so overwhelming. 

“I want a chance to beat them. To win one for witches everywhere.” She kissed him again briskly…

“Goddamn it…I’ll let you beat them Hannah,” he said softly. “I’ll let you win”. 

…

“Whatever I feel about it,” he said with a resigned breath, “you should know, a small part of me also admires you for all of this”. 

Both David and Ana are also quite witty. Ana is constantly threatening David with some sort of darkly sordid harm: “had you tried to come into my room, I would have run you through with a sharpened broomstick - then an unsharpened one.” Ana also loves both her middle finger and the f-word. David laments Ana’s usage of it is never in the manner he wants to hear: “you’re always throwing the word ‘fuck’ at me, but never in the way I want, and as far as I’m concerned, witch and wanton are synonymous”. The bickering between the characters is charged with sexuality. The reader is treated to a few spankings as promised in the trigger warning description and they are as sexy as hell. 

“I should turn your ass pink, then kiss away the sting of it.”

“Because it makes your cock hard or as a punishment?”

“Darling, I've been hard since the moment you stomped naked into my office”...”I want to warm your ass because I know it’ll make you loud. Then it’ll make us come.”

Needless to say both of these things happen, and you’ll need a glass of ice water, or a cold shower, or both to recover. 

If you are looking for a nice, light, romance with fantasy and steampunk elements thrown in, I wholeheartedly recommend the Witches of Kriegspiel series. Prater has another series in this same world that I will be seeking out. Lastly, the covers of the Kriegspiel books are absolutely gorgeous, so definitely a paperback 'must buy' for you collectors. 

The Redemption of Philip Thane - Lisa Berne

When discussing my latest ARC to my cohost, Veronica, I described it as Groundhog Day (GD) set in Regency England. She indicated to me that GD was one of her favorite movies, and I remember liking it quite a bit growing up. What’s not to like though? Bill Murrary (or Dr. Peter Venkman, as I like to call him), gorgeous Andie McDowell, Stephen Tobolowsky (Tobo) and being written and directed by my favorite ghostbuster, Harold Ramis (Egon Spengler). The film is loosely based on the Kubler - Ross 5 stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. One might be able to also pinpoint aspects of buddhism and reincarnation throughout, which is understandable, as Ramis’s wife was a practicing Buddhist and he was close friends with the Dalai Lama. We have European psychology mixed with spiritualist principles. I’m sure you all just thought it was a funny movie where Bill Murray drives around town with a groundhog on his lap screaming “DON’T DRIVE ANGRY!” while being chased by his top hatted brother Brian Doyle-Murray (“If you gotta shoot, aim high, i don’t want to hit the groundhog”). It’s much more than that. As such, when I say that Lisa Berne’s The Redemption of Philip Thane is a direct sendup of GD, I am not exaggerating. 

I’m tempted to copy/paste in the plot of GD to this review, but I’ll refrain. 

A Little Bit of Plot: 

We meet scandalous rake and lay-about Philip Thane as he is traveling to a small town of Whittlesby to deliver a Plough Day welcome speech. Less than enthused by the assignment, but needing the money offered by his relative, Thane delivers a belittling and maladroit address. Margaret Allen, a folklorist, who happens to have encountered Thane on the way to Whittlesby, is absolutely disgusted by the man. Thane, however, is enraptured with Miss Allen. Luckily for him, fate has stepped in and given him countless opportunities to woo Margaret to his charms: Philip is doomed to relive Plough Day over and over. We also have the character of Larry the Cameraman (in the film played by Chris Elliot) as intrepid reporter, Mr. Lawrence, who helps as a plot marker as each loop progresses his routine never differentiates. I would also like to illustrate the parallel of Punxsutawney Phil, the titular groundhog, to the Plough Day icon of the Straw Bear. Side note: similar to the point in the movie in which Phil kidnaps the groundhog and goes joy riding, we have a number of loops which include a certain mascot and a mode of conveyance.

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro) 

The Redemption of Philip Thane (THE TITLE! SEE WHAT I DID THERE?!)

The film relies heavily on the 5 stages of grief to showcase Phil’s turn into a more sympathetic character. The novel utilizes the same device with Thane. Upon his second morning, Thane is in absolute denial of what is occurring, believing that everyone is playing an elaborate prank on him: 

“There had to be a perfectly good reason for all of this. He was looking forward to giving that hearty laugh, demonstrating that he had a very good sense of humor even when the joke was at his expense, and then getting out of here, once and for all.” 

After numerous repetitive days, however, he moves to anger, then bargaining; moreover, he performs most of his outrageous stunts during this stage. From orgies, to jewelry heists, and finally kidnapping, Thane wakes in his Apple Street Inn bed each morning to the sound of “Wake up, sir,...it’s Plough Day”. 

While at first merely attracted to Margaret, Philip becomes obsessed with seducing her and like Rita in GD, she continually refuses him. It isn’t until Philip begins to make peace with the situation does he begin to view Margaret as a person rather than a conquest, leading to his eventual character reformation. At one point, Margaret herself starts feeling a sense of deja vu which allows her to soften towards Philip almost immediately each Plough Day morning. On one particular loop, Philip almost reluctantly allows Margaret to spend the day with him on her own insistence where he divulges the truth as to what is occurring. He describes everything he has learned about her, and it’s heartbreaking in its unvarnished simplicity. “You’re kind, forthright, generous, tenderhearted, and you’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever met, both inside and out”.

As the novel travels along, Philip begins to use the days not only to better himself, but the town and its people. Conversely, some days, he spends little to no time with Margaret at all. The farther away from the original Thane we move, the more detached he becomes from his debauched former self making the resolution much more satisfying. 

The Meat (The Con)

Of all mediums to detail this modern day retelling of Sisyphus, film is truly the best. While there is a lot to enjoy about this book, there was a bit I didn’t care for. The repetition became boring. While I understand that we needed this numbing detailed reiteration to create a sense of ambiguousness as to passage of time or the loss of hope, I found myself skimming a lot. At 400+ pages, there was a lot to slog through. I mentally cheered for myself when I reached the 50% point. I think this could have done with a little more editing, additionally, the ending was quite drawn out. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

This Book Was Deep! 

I’m going to say it; this book was way more thoughtful and introspective than it had any right to be. I’ve not read anything else by Lisa Berne, so I’m not sure if this is commonplace in her other novels, but the storyline dealt with a lot of philosophy, literature critique, and utilized poetry profusely throughout to underscore certain points. 

In one scene, Margaret is departing, inevitably running into a snowstorm, and forcing her and her companions back to town. Before leaving, she enacts a promise from Thane that he will not do anything foolish (like robbery or kidnapping). They then have this exchange:

“Just for today. Please, Mr. Thane. Promise.”

Bit by bit, his smile faded. “I promise”.

“Good. And remember the story of the cow and the fly.”

“I don’t know that one.”

“It’s an old folk-tale out of Africa. A cow faces dire consequences for breaking her promise to a fly.”

“Are you comparing me to a cow, Margaret?”

“Only metaphorically. Besides, that would make me a fly.”

“I can’t picture it somehow.”

“Nor you as a cow.” She smiled a little. “At any rate, it’s quite the cautionary tale.”

“Maybe you’ll tell it to me sometime”. 

Upon returning to the village, Margaret does impart the story to Mr. Thane. Needless to say, it’s a bit morbid, however, strikes a nerve with Philip.

“Most certainly a cautionary tale,” said Philip, and couldn’t stop the wave of melancholy and regret that broke over him as he thought again of all the promises he had never kept. 

But…

But today he had kept a promise. 

When discussing Philip’s situation, Margaret posits the idea that begins his ultimate character turn. It has to do with time and it being a gift rather than a cage. 

"Yes, Philip, isn’t time the most precious commodity any of us have? And somehow, for some mysterious reason, you now have more of it than anybody else. Maybe you’ve been given some kind of well, some kind of opportunity. Some kind of gift.”

He looked at her rather fixedly. 

“An optimistic perspective. Do you believe we live in the best of all possible worlds?”

“You’re thinking of the German philosopher Leibniz and his argument for hopefulness?”

“Yes”

“I don’t know his theories very well, but doesn’t he take the position that the darkness of the world provides an important contrast to goodness - that the darkness offers us a chance to find our way into the goodness we seek? Into light, happiness, connection, peace, joy?”

I will state I haven’t read many historical romances that have utilized German philosophy, African folk tales, and Shakespearian prose to present different themes. The witches from MacBeth are referenced a number of times throughout along with strong allusions to Sisyphus and other Greek mythology. 

 “Every day - like Sisyphus, perhaps, taking a little something from atop the mountain to bring back down with him - he borrowed a book to take back to his inn, having, of course, to each day keep borrowing the same book until he finished it”.

Lastly, I can’t fault a novel that rhapsodizes the under-appreciated Mansfield Park. While P&P is my favorite Austen, Mansfield Park comes in a real close 2nd. 

All in all, I would suggest giving the book a chance. Fair warning, you may find yourself skimming large swaths of the repetitive parts. Still, I really did enjoy the payoff of the titular "Redemption of Philip Thane". Plus, I’d recommend watching Groundhog Day either before or after to make comparisons.

Hey there! It’s Veronica again and I have… stepped outside my comfort zone. Someone from Scarlet Lantern Publishing reached out to see if we’d want to review any of their books a couple of months back and I went ahead and seized an opportunity. 

The thing is, BookTok is obsessed with reverse harems and I’d never read one. I’ll explain more about why later on, but I promise I have reasons.

Anyway, I asked the rep if there were any matching my criteria and she was like “I SURE DO” so she sent me two out of the four in a series called Nadia’s Boys by Alyssa Clark.

The order goes as follows:

Reunion (the focus on this humble review)

Austin

Gavin

Vaughan

I dug right in, eager to read something in a genre I hadn’t read before. Let’s get into it.

Top Bun: This book was hotter than it had any right to be.

I kind of don’t know what to say about this other than the fact that it was hotter than I expected. Frankly, I didn’t know what to expect from it at all, but at some point, I expected a group sex scene, and well… I definitely got it. And then some. 

There were absolutely times when I was shocked at how hot the book was, and others where I was cringing and questioning the laws of physics. (Can a neck actually bend that way?)

In the end though, I found it fascinating to see Nadia navigate these relationships with three dudes. Each of them had a different dynamic with her, and of course, polyamory isn’t really “the norm” in American culture. So she had some social interactions that made her wonder what people thought of her.

Regardless, I have a couple of friends who are into the polyamory lifestyle and I find it fascinating. I’m far too jealous to do that in my real life, but … a girl can dream.

Meat: Maybe Reverse Harems just aren’t for me?

Again, Reunion was my first reverse harem. I have nothing to compare it to. Truly, I’m not sure this sub-genre is for me, but I’m not willing to count it out just yet. I will continue in the series because I want to see how things play out. 

Will Nadia and Austin ever just be exclusive? (And along those lines, has my monogamy brainwashed me? Because this group dynamic seems to be kind of … awesome.)

How will Vaughan entering the picture change things? 

Will we find out that Gavin is a big ole softy on the inside? (I predict the answer is a resounding yes, but only for Nadia.)

Also, the teaser for book 2 at the end… Austin’s crazy ex shows up and I’m going to need to find out what she’s up to.

They’re all questions I’m interested in finding out the answers to, and the whole series is published now, so I’ll finish it.

Bottom Bun: They’re not 19 years old!

As I said, I had particular criteria for reading my first RH. There are some really popular reverse harem series that are centered around a 19yo woman (and others set in high school -- what the actual fuck?) and I’m just not into that. I’m not majorly into new adult romance anyway, but a 19yo getting into a reverse harem situation doesn’t interest me in the slightest. 

My other main issue with reverse harems is that they’re so often set in a bully romance trope, which I’m never into. 

I have no desire to have sex with people who were so mean to me that I thought of them as bullies, no matter how much time has passed. I know I talk a lot about how I love the enemies-to-lovers trope, but there’s a line for me -- bullying vs. just not getting along or having beef with each other.

Literally, if I saw some of the dudes from middle school who were horrible to me walking down the street tomorrow, my blood would run cold as their jokes about my eyebrows ran through my brain, and then my blood would boil and I’d probably try to trip them. 

They surely wouldn’t recognize me, anyway (since I learned how to shape my eyebrows). I could just be some random person on the street who is clumsy. 

And again, let’s go back to that 19yo thing. Listen, I’m not saying that I don’t think 19-year-old people can be adventurous -- of course, they can. I just don’t think that there are a lot of 19-year-olds who are thinking that having sex with two or three dudes at the same time is what they’re looking for. 

Now, I could be totally wrong. This could be the final sign that I am, indeed, old. 

But… come on. 

Nadia and her boys are about 28 -- the main premise of the first book is that everyone is in town for their 10-year high school reunion. So we have three former football stars (two of which went to the NFL) and then Nadia, who is working at least two jobs at all times to scrape by. There’s built-in tension, thanks to their difference in socioeconomic status, and then there’s the awkwardness of the past-bullying situation.

And let’s be clear: she doesn’t just jump into bed with 3 high school bullies. She develops genuine feelings for Austin, and then… sort of feels attracted to the other two? That part is more difficult for me to grasp. But again, I’m new to the reverse harem genre. 

Anyway, I was grateful to read a RH that didn’t involve a 19yo or a high school student (SERIOUSLY, WTF).

Bonus Bottom Bun: Sex Positive Book/Female Empowerment

One of my favorite things about romance novels is that they empower women to embrace and explore their sexuality. Reverse harems offer another (super interesting and very hot) way to do so, which means I’m all for the genre. 

Repeatedly throughout the book, Austin and Gavin talk about how they don’t want to make Nadia choose between them and Gavin just wants a chance with her. To hit a home run with her? (I’m literally giggling to myself at the high school euphemism.) Sure, yes. But mostly he wanted a chance to connect with her the way Austin had. 

When Vaughan realizes he’s being left out, he’s annoyed and wants a chance with Nadia also. Again… he wants to butter her biscuit, but he also wants to get to know her better. And while Vaughan seems a bit cold, we do see a gentlemanly side of him early-on in the book, though even as I type this, I realize that THE BAR IS ON THE FUCKING FLOOR. 

But trust that when he joins in… it’s worth the wait. 

Overall, Reunion was enjoyable. As I said, I’ll finish the series. 

And of course, many thanks to Scarlet Lantern for sending me a paperback (which you can see in a couple of our TikTok videos).

Happy Reading!

Gentleman Seeks Bride - Megan Frampton

If you’ve listened to the podcast, you’ll know that high drama is not my forte. In fact, I’ve referred to a number of books we’ve read as “car crash angst”. I don’t enjoy that twist in your stomach and the emotional turmoil. I’m not too big into soapy shows for this same reason. Which is extremely funny seeing as I’m listening to “When Love is Gone” as I write this, the one song cut from The Muppet Christmas Carol, for being ‘too sad’. FYI, it’s my favorite from the entire soundtrack. Needless to say, I tend to steer clear of books that state quite clearly in the description that a good deal of angst would be found within. I rolled the dice with Megan Frampton’s Gentleman Seeks Bride as it also contains one of the tropes in historical romance that I detest, the hero/heroine playing matchmaker, but end up falling in love with the person in the end. The only time I have enjoyed this trope previously is Hello Dolly, and I just love it because I eventually want to play Dolly Levi when I grow up. Also, she falls for a guy named Horace, come on, who wouldn’t love a dude with a name that sounds like a large four legged mammal? 

A little bit of the plot: 

Mr. Thomas Sharpe finds himself in need of a wife, and not just any wife, an heiress. Lady Jane finds herself in need of education, the kind that comes with visits to bars, gaming hells, and dance halls.  In exchange for her matchmaking skills, Thomas proposes to introduce Jane to all scandalous activity shunned by polite society. Both make promises to not fall in love with one another, as regrettably, Lady Jane will never be considered a suitable marriageable miss. Having being thrown over by a former suitor, Lady Jane has been disinherited due to her refusal to consider subsequent fortune hunters. As the pair share more exceedingly steamy experiences, who will surrender their heart first? 

The Compliment Sandwich 

The Top Bun (Pro)

Role Reversal

As this is a romance novel, I’m not really spoiling anything by saying there is a HEA. Why this book gets bonus points with me is that Thomas falls head over heels quickly and before Jane even realizes that's she in love. We luckily get dual perspectives in this novel, therefore, we are privy to the exact moment where Thomas realizes that his heart is no longer his own. 

The image of it was so palpable he nearly stumbled, making her widen her eyes and give him a questioning look. He shook his head as though it were nothing. 

It wasn’t nothing.

It was want, and desire, and a yearning in his soul he hadn’t felt since before that moment when his whole world shattered. 

The downside to this dual perspective is that we feel his utter desolation in discovering he’s finally found the one person who understands and sees him, and he can’t have her. To save his family and keep them in a moderate income he must find a wealthy woman. He just hopes to find one that he can like and live companionably, as he knows he will never love another woman as he loves Jane. 

We also have a bit of role reversal with Thomas, as he is the fortune hunter that we’re actually rooting for - unlike so many other Historical Romances of this ilk. Most often, the wallflower must marry the scandalous rake in order to save her 12 brothers and sister from the workhouse or some other Dickensian tripe. We now have a hero that is sacrificing his own happiness to ensure his family can benefit from his moderate income. The parallel between Thomas’s actions and Lady Jane’s is referenced a number of times. 

You and I, we are seen as having only one redeeming quality. Because nobody has bothered to look past that quality to find the person within. You should take that advantage and leverage it to find yourself someone who is willing to pay for that quality.” She met his gaze. “It’s what ladies do all the time.”

“So with me doing it it’s a balancing of the sexes?” he replied with an amused smile. 

The more you know of Thomas, the more likable he becomes. When he does meet the ‘perfect heiress’, the reader can’t help but find her likable too. Especially as her future trajectory is influenced by Jane's self-sacrifice in order to 'find' herself and a real purpose as opposed to being just a 'wife' and 'mother'. This novel overall is very female positive and extols the virtues of self discovery. 

The Con

I know one must suspend disbelief when reading historical romance. I understand this, but it does make me give the ‘Scully Eyebrow’ when I come across something quite hard to swallow. For instance, this disinherited lady has moved in with her illegitimate half brother and comes and goes as she pleases with no chaperone. Still receiving invitations to high society events, her status has not diminished in the slightest. Additionally, I don’t want to spoil anything, but we find out something about Percy, Jane’s brother, that is handled deftly, however, I can’t imagine it would be overlooked at the time. That being said, disbelief suspended. Just enjoy. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

STEAM

This book is hot, y’all. Like four alarm fire, hot. Now, I’ve read actual historical erotica, so it’s not that detailed, however, it’s steamy sexy. We have a number of oral/hand jobs before they even have sex. We have the first masturbation scene (one of two) at about 20%. 

“Stroke it, Jane”, he said, closing his eyes as he imagine her hand on him - her fingers just barely able to wrap around his thickness, her palm sliding on his flesh, gripping the top of his cock before going back down again. “Just like that.” He twisted his grip and shuddered, the sweet ache of it growing as he held back, imagining her touching him, her hair unbound and falling down her back, her face flushed, her eyes sparkling with interest and desire”

What did I tell you? F&^%ing hot. FYI, if you were wondering, he finishes thinking of her, NBD. 

At one point in the novel, Thomas and Jane visit a brothel, where in which they act out a voyeurism kink by watching another couple have sex and then they themselves do the deed. Plus, Thomas loves Jane’s downtown area. If he’s not touching it, he’s doing other things to it. 

He wondered what she would do if he bit her there. Right on her sweet arse as his fingers played with her soft, wet warmth. Savoring - anticipating - putting his mouth on her, tasting her, bringing her to climax.

Another positive about the sex scenes is that Jane is a very active participant. While understandably not experienced, she makes up for in courage and self-confidence. By making the decision to walk away from her fortune and find herself, the journey Jane embarks on is completely admirable - especially of the time. While again, you need to suspend your disbelief, you can’t help but feel a bit of ‘girl power’ when she demands to take pleasure wherever she can find it and not deprive herself. 

"I don't know yet if I like it when you touch me, " she replied. Her voice didn't sound like hers - it was huskier, as though she was having difficulty catching her breath and the words were getting caught in her throat.

Which was true, she realized.

She inhaled deeply as she strengthened her resolve. "I don't know if I like it when you touch me," she repeated, then added, "so you'll have to do it more for me to reach a conclusion."

And then she froze, worried he would think her too forward, too fast, too strong.

"Oh, my lady," he replied in a warm, sensual tone that relieved all her concerns, "I already know I will like that."

Overall, I very much enjoyed this novel. The angst wasn’t as overwhelming as I imagined. Frampton is an exceptional writer, and I found her prose to have a nice balance of sophistication and wit. While dealing with possible anachronistic situations for Regency england, they were deftly handled and never felt like a modern sensibility was shoe-horned to make it fit. 

Never Fall For Your Fiance by Virginia Heath

Do you ever feel the need for a warm drink and a melty piece of chocolate? When the weather is right on the cusp of chilling your bones, that it just takes the edge off? Some books for me have that feeling; just sweet enough to warm my cockles, but not enough to give me diabetes. For the first frost of the season, I was delighted in partaking of the Reese’s Peanut Brittle Peanut Butter Cup of November 2021 releases, Never Fall for Your Fiance by Virginia Heath. 

A lil’ bit o’ plot: 

Hugh Standish, Earl of Fareham, has a problem. You see, in order to keep his marriage minded momma off his back, Hugh devises a fake fiance, Minerva Landsridge, to whom he has been loyally betrothed for the past two years. Hugh has faced many hardships that have fallen his faux fiance in their fabricated times together: consumption (!) and the death of her beloved fictional father, to name a few. When Hugh’s mother announces she’s coming for a very real, live and in person visit, he must dig up a betrothed partner, and fast. Thus enters Minerva Meriwell, who as luck would have it, is in need of cash and fortuitously shares the name of his soon to be bride. Along with Minerva, however, come two sisters, a hired stage actress for a mother, and a villainous, very much alive father. Will Hugh ignore all the warnings and fall for his fiance? 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

Hugh & Minerva

We’ve all met a Hugh and Minerva. Two people that are so nice, you kind of want to hate them, but they work so well together, you just sit back and seeth with envy? 

Wait..just me?

Okaaaaay then. 

Anywho… 

Both characters acknowledge the other to be upstanding, good, likeable individuals. Heath goes to a number of lengths to provide examples of their good natures. Hugh, for example, hides his philanthropic tendencies under the guise of a scandalous rake persona. One particular instance is where we learn that Hugh has built a small hamlet for aging tenants to live rent free with their pensions for the remainder of their lives. Let’s just say that discovery is a direct hit to Minerva’s heart: 

“What a lovely thing to do.” Something odd happened beneath Minerva’s ribs. A Little thud, like a bolt sliding into place, then her heart seemed to grow and swell. Hugh really was a nice man. Perhaps one of the nicest. 

Minerva learns this fact from Hugh’s step-father, not the man himself. Hugh, in fact, refuses to reveal any of his more altruistic endeavors to her. She learns more about his true nature from his butler, rather than the man himself. 

Minerva has single-handedly raised her two sisters from an age in which she would barely be considered an adult herself. She divested herself of any romantic entanglements that would impede her from caring and providing for her younger sisters. With a blackguard for a father, both Minerva and her younger Diana fully acknowledge the predicament they find themselves in and want to better themselves. 

Their youngest sister, Venus (Vee), pines away at the thought that their scoundrel father will return. Despite all this, Minerva has not become jaded. While she understands their impoverished circumstances, she isn’t ashamed by their lack of wealth or income. Hugh sees all that she takes upon herself and wishes to unburden her. 

“I have eyes, Minerva. The more I get to know you, the more I realize you pull yourself in every direction trying to be all things to all people. A mother to your sisters, a pretend fiancee to me, a gracious hostess, a good friend. Your intrinsic niceness is humbling”.

In a way, Hugh and Minerva remind me a little of Jane and Mr. Bingley; hinting at a little of a ‘too nice for their own good”. As Mr. Bennett quoted “each of you so complying, that nothing will ever be resolved on; so easy, that every servant will cheat you  and so generous, that you will always exceed your income.”. If Hugh and Minerva are Jane and Bingley...that must make Diana and Giles… Elizabeth and Darcy. Interesting...

The Meat (The Con)

Venus (Vee)

I was trying you guys, I...was...TRYING. I can only hope that by the time we get to her book, Venus has grown up a bit. I had to remind myself on numerous occasions, ‘dude, she’s seventeen and has no parents’. It wasn’t helping. At one point in the novel, Giles and Hugh decide that for the fake fiance plan to work, Venus must be packed up with a governess and sent away. I whole-heartedly agreed. Let that sink in.

Vee is  totally unamiable, selfish, and overly emotional. So...pretty much a seventeen year old girl. 

Surprisingly I didn’t suffer any headaches or a detached retina for the eye rolling that occurred every time she was on the page. I will say, however, that she softened by the end of the book. Still, it was a struggle. 

Having read other Viriginia Heath novels, however, I have faith, if anyone could redeem Vee, it’s her. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

Olivia Peabody (Hugh’s mother)

From Hugh’s description of this mother, the reader envisions this tall, impressive, harpy, who looks down her nose at the impoverished and is a slave to societal norms. Oh ho, not so, dear reader! Instead, we are introduced to a warm, boisterous, yet diminutive in size, delightful woman. While extremely skeptical of Hugh and his supposed fiance, she accepts Minerva and her family almost instantly. Olivia “Sass is my middle name” Peabody is pushy, yet loving. Her relationship with Hugh’s stepfather is absolutely entertaining. The advice she provides Minerva is actually quite insightful at times, while being couched in the ridiculous. 

“To be frank, my dear, I was heartened to see it [Hugh and Minerva arguing]. It shows he cares. I have never trusted those couples who claim never to argue. I think it shows a lack of depth in their relationship and a grave imbalance. People who love one another argue. People who are indifferent don’t...Jeremiah and I have had some stinkers over the years. I once threw a hairbrush at him”. 

At a point in the novel, you discover how Olivia and Mr. Peabody’s  love match came about, and it’s both heartbreaking yet auspicious. At no time did I believe that if Olivia discovered the fake fiance plot would she be nonplussed. In fact, she’s the type of mom that would applaud your ingenuity while at the same time never letting you out of your room again. 

To sum it up, I really enjoyed this book. The love scenes were spot on and the second act break up was almost too enjoyable for my sadistic heart. The subsequent tension and anguish was just the right amount for me. I love stringing out that HEA just a little bit longer. I’m a HEA edger. HEAdgelord. Trademark! Slap it on a shirt!

I didn’t know if we were going to have any steam in this book - we’d had a few make out scenes, but nothing too ‘involved’. Never fear, dear reader, you do get the money shot towards the end. 

Overall, I really loved the characters (even the one that irritated me) enough that I’ll be back for the second and third installments in the series. If you haven’t checked out Viriginia Heath’s oeuvre, I’d highly recommend it. She’s a lighthearted author if you are looking for something with low stakes, slight angst, and lots of sparks. 

Side Note - this is just a PSA for other reviewers. 

To one certain reviewer in particular: 

Listen: you can’t start your review saying “I loved both characters so much, they had great chemistry and I loved the story line…” then state that because the characters realized they both have private parts and want to mash them together that you’re giving it 1 star. The first half of your argument negates the second. If you’re invested in the characters, find the story charming, and read almost half of the novel, but then decide because a sensual (the  point to which this person is referring is not sexual) scene takes you out- it’s absolutely fine to not finish. But to give it 1 star based on your response to an objectionable (again, to you) scene is hypocritical. I don’t troll inspirational or faith based romances and throw around 1 star reviews because I don’t see peen. I’ve refused to review books because they weren’t for me. I decided to act ethically and save my vitriol for books that piss me off for convoluted story lines, grammar, errors, etc. I’m not saying that you have to give everything a great review, but maybe just be the bigger person, take the ‘L’, say to yourself “good for her, not for me” and don’t leave a review. End of rant.

The Virgin Who Bewitched Lord Lymington by Anna Bradley - D

What’s that old joke, if you were going any slower, you’d be going in reverse? What is the fundamental reason that authors will often plot at a glacial pace until around the 75% mark then speed to the resolution? The campaign platform that I’m running consists of legislation that requires authors to parse out the action within their novels to varying degrees. Only in fantasy novels will allowance be given to meandering plots and overly stuffed world building. If you are into this idea, along with wiping out student loan debt, the mandatory use of the Oxford comma, and the cloning of Sebastian Stan, vote for me in 2024. By this thinking, you can imagine that The Virgin Who Bewitched Lord Lymington by Anna Bradley would be in violation of my initiative. I’m not sure what the penalty is yet, possibly banning the use of the word bosom for 6 months. 

I’m not going to do my usual compliment sandwich because I don’t know if I have that many pros. I can describe a little bit of the plot, although it is convoluted with no true resolution. Emma Downing, a former courtesan, goes undercover as the granddaughter of socialite Lady Crosby in 1795 England in order to solve the disappearance of 3 women from Lymington House. One of the women has been located in the service of Madame Marchand, proprietor of the brothel, the Pink Pearl (a little too on the nose, Bradley). Emma believes Lord Lovell, cousin to Lord Lymington, to be the culprit of the disappearances. She enters society to determine either his guilt or innocence and all the while falls in love (with his cousin..sorry, didn’t mean to bury the lede). 

I have two major complaints about this book. Firstly, as if you couldn’t tell from my above meandering, it was SLOW. Like as if I was driving a car and a turtle with a flat tire passed me while flipping me off yelling “suck it!” - slow. I understand that we need to build up the disappearances and the circumstances behind the elusive involuntary courtesan. That being said, hints and clues dribble out slower than the leak in my tub faucet. (Note to self, fix leak in tub faucet) Additionally, when we do finally meet the culprit, I’m not entirely sold on their motive. Let me rephrase that, I’m not at all sold on their MO. I’ve watched enough true crime and have researched senseless crime. But this is a book - it should make sense! Unless the book is from the perspective of the villain, you can’t make a case for just violence for violence sake. You don’t get an Alfred, “some men just like to watch the world burn” moment, unless you build the crimes into the main thrust of the story or your story is told from the view of the antagonist. I think Bradley wanted to write a mystery novel, but was waylaid by the historical romance aspect. She throws in the romance when it suits her. Most of her plot threads are left hanging with no resolution. 

The second complaint I have is with the realism in this book. Emma is a former courtesan who eventually marries the hero, Samuel (spoiler, this is a romance novel). At one point, she comes clean and he learns her truth. Keep in mind that she has slipped into the ‘diamond of the first water’ persona quite easily, as she’s been parading around as the real granddaughter of Lady Crosby. While we don’t meet the real Lady Emma, we know she exists, she just hasn’t made her presentation at court yet. Which leads me to believe that when the real Emma Crosby has her “coming out” the ton is going to reject her, and it will be revealed that a courtesan was parading around as a virginal debutante the entire time. Maybe they thought, ‘eh, no one will remember what she looks like’. Well, having her be the belle of the ball, might not be the best idea then. If Carrie taught us nothing, we never remember the prom queen, right? I don’t know what the equivalent of dumping pigs blood on someone during the big dance was in the Regency era. Probably...dumping pigs blood on someone during the big dance...nevermind.

I may be a little harsh on this because I’m not into the ‘courtesan turned lady’ concept. Most of those books, however, devote a modicum of plot to dealing with the prostitution angle and how it affects the relationships in the book. Literally everyone in Samuel’s family knows she’s a former prostitute and is like “dude, whatever” and move on. Which I applaud in 2021 because it’s a job and sex workers deserve a living wage and health insurance. But in 1817? No way in hell. At least one conversation would be had where Ma Lymington was like, “Yeah, Samuel, if you marry that girl our legacy and estate will literally be in ruins”. We get nothing like that here. 

We don’t even really know what happened to Emma during her very violent run-in with her one-and only client. Bradley only indicates that while Emma is not a virgin, she’s never experienced an orgasm or enjoyment from sex.

“God, I’ve never seen anything more erotic in my life than watching you come for me, Emma.”

Emma cupped his bristly cheek, “I never have, before.”

His heavy-lidded eyes widened.

“Never?”

“Never.”

Samuel went still for an instant, but then a satisfied smile curved his lips.”Only for me.”

“Only you...I didn’t think women could er..do that”. 

Good on her for getting hers, truly. But we aren’t going to be privy to what happens when the newly minted Lady Lymington makes her first appearance in a London ballroom after everyone knows her history as a kept woman? I’ve read enough HR to know that it would be ugly, but Bradley just glosses over this. 

I can’t say that I would recommend this book unless you are a completist and want to finish out the series. Although, having only read one of the four, I’m not likely to venture into the others. I think there are better authors that handle both mystery HR and courtesan turned lady HR in a more deft hand. Seek out any Amanda Quick, Lisa Kleypas, etc.

The Fastest Way to Fall by Denise Williams

My cohost and I have a saying on the podcast in reference to certain books we’ve come across. We want to Eternal Sunshine them. We are, of course, referencing the 2004 movie, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. Now, in that movie, the characters employ the Eternal Sunshine clinic to erase upsetting people/events/thoughts from their minds. You’d think we were being negative, but we’re actually meaning it in the utmost positive. We’ve enjoyed a book so much that we want to eternal sunshine it from our brain; therefore, each time we open the book is like our first. Imagine if you could go back and eternal sunshine a movie from your brain, like the Sixth Sense, wherein which you get caught up by that twist over and over again. Well, The Fastest Way to Fall by Denise Williams is an Eternal Sunshine book.I finished it today and I already want to reread it, however, I wish I didn’t know the big beats. I want to experience the Grand Gesture (GG) all over again and feel them falling in love for the first time. To say I loved this book would probably be an understatement.

On to a little bit of plot: Overweight lifestyle journalist, Britta Colby is assigned to journal her foray into an online fitness app (think along the lines of Noom). The online trainer assigned to her is none other than the company’s founder, Wes Lawson. Their relationship begins with the normal email interactions between trainer and client but soon progress to almost constant chat messages and then in person meetings. The meet-cute that occurs in this book is utterly unforgettable and so fraught with chemistry. But as these two become closer and secrets stay hidden, both of their careers are on the line. Will they deny what's slowly building between each other or give into their attraction? 

The Compliment Sandwich

The Top Bun (The Pro)

Britta and Wes

I could write a thesis on my feelings for both Britta and Wes. Wes is just the epitome of a Wesley, and I’m just a bit jealous of a fictional character for falling in love with him. Williams has created a stable of fantastic characters that you can't help but become invested in each of their own individual storylines. Wes’s basketball buddies are endearing, and I want to reach through my kindle and hug his business partner/best friend, Cord. At one point you meet Britta’s family, and they are warm and supportive like an familiar embrace. But Britta and Wes are both amazingly developed characters. 

Britta is a bad ass bitch. I’m not censoring that, as I know she’d not want me to. While she knows that she may be heavier than what is considered the ‘norm’ this does not color how she views herself or her worth. Upon taking this assignment, she has determined that weight loss is not the prime objective, she is gaining healthy lifestyle traits. 

“That weight loss thing is working, then?”

I bristled. “The fitness project is going well. Like I said a while back, it’s not about weight loss”...

“You really do look good, Britt,”...”Imagine how hot you’ll be as you keep going”...

“I don’t know,” I said. “I think I’ve always been hot,” I hoped that might give him the opportunity to course-correct his gaffe.

Britta is also extremely funny. A large majority of her dialogue had me chortling like an idiot. “If any man ever wanted me the way I want this stranger’s cream cheese Danish, I’m not sure I’d walk again”.  Or:

The claw-foot tub was a strange extravagance in an otherwise normal apartment. It didn’t match the rest of the decor, but having a tub I could sink into was a dream. All I needed was a lover admiring me from the doorway. I struck a particularly mermaidy pose at that thought.

Wes is the kind of character you wish you knew IRL (like the kids say). I want him to record motivational phrases to inspire me when I work out...when I work out...which is like almost never...so I’d need him to get me motivated to get my ass from behind this computer first. However, if there ever was a fictional character that could do it, I’m sure Wes would fit the bill. 

Wes is a natural caregiver, so where Britta is the more outgoing and extroverted, Wes is more controlled and measured. 

“Pearl doesn’t like him,” I added.

“He dated her sister, Shea, and it didn’t end well.”

“Do we need to kill him?”

By the point at which we meet Wes, his mother has been an alcoholic for a number of years and has in some manner driven away his sister. He has assumed the caregiving parental role in his mother’s life by paying her rent, employing a housekeeper, and ensuring her fridge is stocked. He handles this impossible situation without complaint. Lastly, it’s his caring nature that initiates the meet cute with Britta. (Which I will not spoil)

The Meat (The Con)

This is a tough one guys...I don’t have much to say on this. I freaking loved this book. I guess if I was pressed, I would have liked to have seen more comeuppance for the villain of the book. While their actions weren’t dastardly or akin to mustache-twirling, they were shitty. Their outcome wasn’t bad enough in my opinion, but I’m a shell of a human being who lives for pettiness. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

The Chemistry (Yeah, Chemistry!) *Extra points if you get that reference

This book gave me what I wanted more from in The Happy Ever After Playlist: slow burn epistolary flirting. A good first portion of the book is written from both Wes and Britta’s perspective in the form of emails and chat messages. The meet cute happens quite a bit into the book and from Wes’s perspective. It’s quite obvious that he’s been struck by lightning when he meets Britta. We gather that he’s been quite close to falling for her through their non-verbal communications, but when he finally sees her, it’s like magic. 

I brushed her hair away from her eyes. I’d been in her presence for less than two minutes, and I wanted nothing more than to touch her, pull her into my arms…Her chest rose and fell steadily, and my eyes stopped on her soft, full lips...I brushed my thumb gently down her cheek without thinking, and something like relief colored her expression at my touch.

Once they begin to spend time together in real life, the chemistry grows to where Wes, in particular, is absolutely besotted. 

She made me laugh, she made me get lost talking about nothing, and she had a great smile. All morning I had to keep inventing reasons to look out the window or at the TV to stop from staring at her because I wanted to memorize her. 

He also wants to get horizontal with her too (like, doy) but knows a sexual relationship could possibly destroy his company. That doesn’t stop him from making these scintillating observations: 

My head and my dick had been at odds since I flipped through that notebook of hers...The words were seared into my head.

On a precipice

My fingers, like your soft tongue

Edging me closer.

As soon as I read them, I imagined her thick thighs spread wide and her hand sliding low. I imagined how her eager fingers would move, then how I’d gently push them aside to make room for my own. 

Holy hell, I need a cold shower and big gulp sized ice water. Possibly a defibrillator. 

I rested my fingertips on her abdomen. I could have moved my fingers, pulled them away once she had the idea and then talked her through it, but I didn't. Instead, I pressed lower, letting my fingers splay over her belly, feeling her tense. ‘Right here,’ I said, my voice huskier than I planned when I met her eyes. ‘When you do the crunch, you’ll contract your muscles here.’

F*&% me. Literally.

I don’t want to spoil anything regarding their declarations of love for one another, so I’m going to hope that the examples are enough to illustrate my point about the A+ chemistry lecture occurring in this novel. 

Honestly, if I had the time to write another 10 pages, I’d love to expound on my other pros, such as how Wes doesn’t focus on weight loss or restrictive eating behaviors with Britta. If you hadn’t gleaned it from my gushing above, you should know that this book is extremely body positive and supports healthy lifestyles for every body shape. Eating and workout disorders also play a large role and are deftly handled. Williams has given us a brilliant novel that engages while also creating unforgettable characters. Seriously, if anyone has a number for the Sunshine Clinic, DM stat with the deets. 

Permanent Ink by E.L. Lewis

Well, she did it again. E.L. Lewis made me care for a character that I normally wouldn’t be drawn to in any other book. And not only did she make me root for her, I cried when her heart broke. I just finished Lewis’ second in the Ink Series Duet,  Permanent Ink, and my cockles have been warmed. If anyone doesn’t understand this, I’m speaking about the cockles of my heart. Get your mind out of the gutter! Or keep it there, and join me in my usual bacchanalian fete that normal people would call Tuesday night. 

What I’d really like to talk about though is Vampire Weekend. I know, all of you are like, ‘wait..what?’ Rae must have suffered a head injury, because what does Vampire Weekend have to do with Permanent Ink? Well friends, a few weeks ago I was listening to the Ted Lasso soundtrack, because that’s how I roll. It features a song from Vampire Weekend and I thought, ‘I haven’t listened to them in a while’. Fast forward to a week-long venture down a rabbit hole from Campus to Horchata. I suddenly felt hella old upon the realization that their first album came out 13 years ago. Yup, everyone take a breath. For those of you that are something crazy like 18 years old, the world was a different place in the ‘before times’, where music streaming services weren’t really a ‘thing’. You had to purchase a whole album! Clutch your pearls, Mildred!

Anywho, I bring up Vampire Weekend, because we are catching up with Cassie Carrington as she returns to Seattle and begins an in person relationship with her love interest from Company Ink, Blake Pearson. Blake. {Cue the music: “Blaaaakees Got A New Face!”}. Yes, all I could hear was ‘Blakes Got A New Face” by Vampire Weekend throughout most of this book. So much so that I started picturing Blake as the lead singer of VW, Ezra Koenig. I’m sure both know how to rock a deck shoe and make ‘unintentionally smug’ exceedingly hot. Interestingly, I’m about to explain why Blake’s Got A New Face is quite apropos for the Blake Pearson we encounter in this book. 

A Little Bit of the Plot. 

We meet up with Cassie as she has completed her MFA while living in NYC with her cousin Vanessa. Vanessa is undergoing therapy to rehabilitate from medical issues brought on by the car accident presented in flashback in book one. A year has elapsed between books. For that entire year, Blake and Cassie have decided to take their relationship very slow, and by slow, we mean glacial. The pair do not call or text, they communicate entirely by letter. Upon returning home, Cassie is also offered a dream position as Creative Director at Cavloretta Couture, headed up by her very sexy and very newly single ex-Adrian. The relationship with Blake moves at stutter stops, for stretches running smoothly and other times finding Cassie and Blake at crossroads. Both find that they are not what the other expected - do opposites really attract? When more characters from the past reemerge with the possibility to come between them, will Cassie and Blake be able to meet in the middle? 

The Compliment Sandwich!

The Top Bun (The Pro)

Cassandra (Cassie) F&^%ing Carrington

I will reiterate the claim from my previous review - Twenty Something Fashionista Socialites are not my cup of tea; Cassie Carrington however, is so damn likable. Throughout the book, many other characters extol upon her beauty, intelligence, and wit. She is 100% all of those. She’s clever and has witty repartee with all of the other characters. She’s also a boss ass bitch. 

“Really? You’re going to go there?...How are you qualified to be a managing partner? Ness told me that the average age for partners is fifty-fucking-two years old, okay? You can be upset with me for springing this on you but do not try and undermine my qualifications especially when your position is courtesy of your father...And yes, perhaps I lack in the experience department a little bit, but I am confident I can do this job, and I can do it well.”

Interestingly, I never doubted that Cassie would succeed at her job. We are offered a number of different glimpses of Cassandra’s confidence and drive throughout both books, it’s not beyond the realm of imagination that she would perform well in an industry that she enjoyed.  

I also give Lewis massive kudos for not pitting Cassie between both Adrian and Blake throughout the book. The agro ‘dick meausring’ instances displayed in the book are not for Cassie’s benefit; at times, she’s simply a bystander. In fact, in two particular situations, she calls Blake out for his overly aggressive advances in front of Adrian. Like when your cat pees on something to claim it as theirs - not real charming. Cassie, unfortunately, seems to befall one awkward situation after the next, forcing an upsetting altercation at one point. 

Refreshingly, we aren’t subjected to Cassie pining over Adrian while with Blake. What plays out is an enviable working friendship with her ex. You never doubt that Cassie will be faithful to Blake. Lewis has built enough trust with the reader to broadcast quite loudly that infidelity is not something that Cassie can tolerate. 

“You what?” I ask quietly, tilting my head. “You don’t trust me? What do you think is going to happen? I’m with you, Blake. You”...

“Trust is earned, Cassandra,” Blake says, his cold eyes flickering around my face.

“Are you saying that you don’t trust me?...I have never, in my entire life been unfaithful, and I don’t plan to be.”

“I trust you. I do,” Blake says, closing his eyes. “I just don’t trust Adrian.”

“You don’t have to trust Adrian, all you have to is trust me, “ I say. 

As the book progresses, Blakes personality becomes more apparent, and Cassie comes to the realization that they are different but complementary. At no point, however, does Cassie compare Blake to Adrian. Lewis simply presents situations where the reader can interpret this themselves. I’m going to refrain from saying much more as I would rather the plot remain unspoiled; however, Cassie’s actions are never questionable. Upon reaching the denouement, one can only hope that they themselves would react in the same way. 

The Meat (The Con)

I can’t spoil anything so I’m just going to say that when Cassie has her ‘come to Jesus’ moment, I wish we had more build up. We’ve lived with her for almost three years at this point, and I wanted to experience the excitement and realization with her a little more. I think she deserved just some introspection before the lightening strike. Like when listening to Vampire Weekend's self titled first album, you can’t just go to Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa..you have to listen to Mansford Roof and Oxford Comma first - ease into it. And truly, if you have to ask, “who gives a fuck about an Oxford Comma”, then you haven’t found the joy that they truly bring to one’s life. 

The Bottom Bun (The Pro)

There are so many ways I want to go with this. If you want my heartfelt bottom bun and want to be spoiled, hit me up and I will unload some truths. For the purposes of keeping this spoiler free, I’m going to talk about Vanessa a bit. While she plays a decent sized role in the first book, she’s up front in this book. While working towards a healthy recovery from her accident, she’s come into her own in this book. Truth be told, I thought she was heading down a completely different path in relation to the hero than what actually occurs and I was kind of fine with that. I may have peeked ahead to see if my suspicions were correct - they weren't, but I would have been completely content with my imagined narrative for Vanessa. 

As she is completely opposite from Cassie, and often has to step into the role as the adult. She, at times, forces Cassie to assume a level of maturity that she may not be willing to accept, but is essential for her character’s development. 

“Cassandra Michelle Carrington,” Ness states with a menacing tone. “Put together your damn bed. You can’t sleep on just a mattress. This isn’t a frat house.”

“I wish it was! It’d be so fun!” I whimper, burrowing my face into the hardwood floors.”Do you even know what the word means, Ness? Fun? You’re killing my vibe! Bitch don't kill my vibe! Bitch don’t kill my vibe!”