Let's talk dirty books
Cedar Hill Romance, Book 1
Heat Factor: The perfect balance of plot-driven steam.
Character Chemistry: It was instantaneous and inevitable
Plot: Two extremely bright individuals strike a business deal that gets very complicated (and just absolutely, divinely delicious).
Overall: I was so impressed with this book–it was a genuinely well-balanced read.
The Abbott Sisters, Book 1
Heat Factor: Mostly closed door, but not 100% (in case you’re squeamish)
Character Chemistry: In the way of love based on a lie, the chemistry was aces
Plot: Pretty close to exactly what you’d expect
Overall: I alternated between rage and euphoria
If Erin were to review this book, she would call it a Recommended Read. If Holly were to review this book, she would write a Rant. Clearly, we needed to review this book together.
Welcome to Dueling Reviews.
Moderated by Ingrid, the Voice of Reason.
Holly’s Take
Heat Factor: If you’re into the whole dynamic where a shy virgin teaches a sexually experienced hero how to “make love” with her magical vagina, then it’s pretty sexy
Character Chemistry: Please ignore Helen’s personality transplant
Plot: High melodrama thanks to a ridiculous and honestly unnecessary plot device
Overall: SO DISAPPOINTING. This is the book that made me give up on Lisa Kleypas
Erin’s Take
Heat Factor: There are a couple of sex scenes, but it’s mostly angsty pining
Character Chemistry: They don’t spend a great deal of time together, but somehow I still felt they had great chemistry
Plot: Angsty unworthiness and unsolicited advice all around!
Overall: LOVED IT. Kleypas heroes are basically my kryptonite, and Winterborne was no exception.
Heat Factor: The narrative ties together the sex scenes rather than vice versa
Character Chemistry: They didn’t have time to develop chemistry with all the sex going on
Plot: Pretty Woman with an oddly reversed power dynamic
Overall: I would not characterize this as a romance novel
