Trope
Heat Factor: I mean, it is technically explicit sex, but it’s done in a vignette style until nearly the end, when it feels much more traditionally written
Character Chemistry: I had big feels, but it was because of Zach’s journey, not because of Zach and Eugenio together
Plot: Baseball players fall in love, but one refuses to come out and things fall apart. Until they get a second chance.
Overall: Y’all. I have just been on a whole emotional roller coaster.
Heat Factor: No sex, some grumpy pining
Character Chemistry: Santos is clearly interested; Mercy is a lot more invested in her relationship with La Llorona
Plot: Mercy was touched by La Llorona as a teenager, and now she’s trying to break free
Overall: I enjoyed this book a lot, but it’s not your standard romance fare
Perfect Fit, Book #4
Review of Perfect Fit, Book # 3
Heat Factor: Well, they explore a lot of kinky play, but it’s not the same as a book that is aiming for titillating kink. If that makes sense.
Character Chemistry: The trust comes fast but the emotion builds slow
Plot: Nathalie had a bad Dom and decided BDSM wasn’t for her, but when she discusses her history with a good Dom, she realizes she might be able to safely explore her fantasies again.
Overall: This is an example of when really spicy content doesn’t feel spicy because it’s so thoughtful
Sydney Smoke Rugby, Book #7
Heat Factor: kinda like: the first time they do something it’s explicit but then subsequent times we can bypass that detail
Character Chemistry: “This person is extra special” at first sight
Plot: closeted gay rugby player finally meets a man who makes him want what he never needed before
Overall: I don’t know. On the one hand it’s super readable. On the other… 🙃
Heat Factor: I wouldn’t call it steamy, but it’s definitely not closed door.
Character Chemistry: It’s deliciously complicated.
Plot: Crispin is *the worst*. Except now he has amnesia and is nice. And also has a wife, who doesn’t seem to like him all that much?
Overall: The romance is an exceptional emotional roller coaster, but there’s some other plot that worked less well.
