Representation – at least one protagonist is a person of color
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”
Ashes & Dust, Book #1
Heat Factor: Dry humping to climax is great, but have you ever tried a “whoops we woke up in the same bed and we’re aroused” hand job?
Character Chemistry: It was sweet
Plot: Someone is sucking the souls out of people with magic, so of course the vampire PI goes undercover to investigate and then ends up metaphysically bound to the soul-sucker
Overall: It took a long time to figure out what the deal was with the love interest, but the mystery and the magical creatures made for a fun read
