Heat Factor: The heat comes from the witty dialogue, not hanky panky
Character Chemistry: I mean, it’s Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth—only in Pakistan, and just as satisfying.
Plot: It’s a classic P&P, folks—only the new setting and fresh take by the author make it an absolutely riveting read.
Overall: I feel that if I were Jane Austen and read this retelling, I would feel very seen. It simply rocks.
The Graciella Series, Book #3
Heat Factor: It’s kind of an instant, angry, heated clash and then it burns but in a more friendly and less publicly appropriate way
Character Chemistry: This is absolutely a case of matching wounds meeting matching wounds but it actually made sense to me…THIS TIME.
Plot: Cass is on the tail end of a deeply traumatic experience—so traumatic she loses her sense of smell, and unfortunately she’s a food writer. She regains it when a really attractive farmer accidentally throws manure all over her, and then they get in a really rude argument, and afterwards they pretty much start matching themselves right up in ways that are understandable and steamy.
Overall: This was a really sweet read and it did surprise me in a lot of lovely ways.
Winner Bakes All, Book #1
Heat Factor: There’s a decent amount of mediocre sex, and then some spectacular sex.
Character Chemistry: Well…it’s complicated.
Plot: Love at the Great British Bake Off!!!!! (Obviously Alexis Hall is not looking for a lawsuit, so the name was changed and it’s not in a tent.)
Overall: I was feeling a bit anxious about where this was going in the first chunk of the book, but ended up loving it.
Cider Bar Sisters, Book #3
Reviews of Cider Bar Sisters, Book #1, Book #2, and Bonus Novella #2.5
Heat Factor: So many toys! So much being filled! 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Character Chemistry: David is a stern brunch daddy (OMG!!!!)
Plot: She’s figuring out that maybe she’s growing out of the last phase of her life, he’s pining real hard for a seemingly unattainable future, they’re neighbors with benefits
Overall: I finished this book and then texted Ingrid and Holly: “I love Jackie Lau”
Psy-Changeling, Book #3
Review of Psy-Changeling, Book #1
Heat Factor: Judd destroys furniture with his mind while banging because it’s so intense
Character Chemistry: So, the drama of “he really wants to be with her but if he engages in their emotions one of them will die” (not joking) is AWESOME
Plot: There’s a lot going on with all the Psy/Changeling politics, but also Brenna is recovering from being kidnapped and tortured, and Judd is desperately trying not to break Silence and become a serial killer.
Overall: This book totally sealed it for me. I stan Psy/Changeling now.
