Representation – author is a person of color (BIPOC)
Heat Factor: There’s a lot of sexual inneundo, and then they get busy on a ballroom terrace. And also in a closet.
Character Chemistry: They love/hate each other, so they torment each other.
Plot: Sarani’s on the run after her father’s murder, and ends up on the ship of her first love, who now wants revenge
Overall: Eh. I found the romance lacking.
The Rajes, Book #3
Review of The Rajes Book #1, Book #2
Heat Factor: This book is like 90% pining. The other 10% is political stuff and a few kisses.
Character Chemistry: “We had an immediate connection, but then you ghosted me, and now you’re engaged to someone else, but I still have feelings for you.”
Plot: After Yash survives an assassination attempt on the campaign trail, his family encourages him to learn some meditation techniques from India to help him get back in the saddle. Too bad nobody knows that he and India had one beautiful day of connection many years ago.
Overall: I’ll be honest, it took me a while to settle into this one. It doesn’t help that the characters don’t even start interacting until solidly a third into the book.
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.
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.
