Other – Books that aren’t really romance novels, but have some sort of central romantic plot element.
Heat Factor: Not quite fade to black, but the sex writing is more focused on the emotions than the mechanics
Character Chemistry: Veering into insta-love territory; maybe it’s fate
Plot: Grace has an identity crisis
Overall: Messy and beautiful
Magic in Manhattan, Book #3
Reviews of Magic in Manhattan Book #1 and Book #2
Heat Factor: Extremely low key, still fade-to-black
Character Chemistry: Every time Arthur calls Rory “Teddy” (his real name that only Arthur uses), I turn into a puddle of goo
Plot: We’re finally going to come face to face with the evil baron and save the world!
Overall: I’m glad I read this trilogy.
Magic in Manhattan, Book #2
Review of Magic in Manhattan, Book #1
Heat Factor: They have some great conversations, but then it’s fade to black
Character Chemistry: “We haven’t discussed the particulars of our relationship, so I shouldn’t feel jealous and possessive, but I dooooooooooooooo!”
Plot: The second act adds to the drama and the relationship angst
Overall: If you haven’t read Spellbound, go back and start there. If you have, what are you waiting for?!
Heat Factor: It has a few moments but I wouldn’t say it screams “fire”
Character Chemistry: They just don’t have that connection that leads to a satisfying HEA
Plot: Wylie is a freelance beachside yoga instructor who ends up temporarily homeless after getting kicked out of her sublet. She strikes up an Instagram promotional deal with a food truck vendor and before long she finds herself forging ahead with a new life in a shared house situation, all while falling for Nolan (the food truck secret billionaire).
Overall: This book leaned into Smut Adjacent territory because the couple’s romance ended up taking a back seat to the sub plot.
Heat Factor: It’s steamy but it’s a slow build and it’s a very unique unfolding.
Character Chemistry: There are so many kinds of chemistry here it’s impossible to summarize.
Plot: Jack is a world-famous musician whose career began with his other half, Mia. At perhaps the twilight of his career, Jack is interviewed by Erin, a journalist. Together they unfold a story and also a deep and profound connection.
Overall: This is a two-fer – one romance, smut adjacent but deeply touching. The other, a very sweet HEA. I would not categorize this as a classic romance, but a very well written adult fiction with an engaging romance story line.
