Other – Books that aren’t really romance novels, but have some sort of central romantic plot element.
Heat Factor: Barely kisses
Character Chemistry: I remain unconvinced
Plot: Charlotte finally comes to term with her husband’s death
Overall: Exceptionally irritating but, for some reason, I read the whole thing
The Halcyon Universe, Book 2
Heat Factor: Literally they have sex in the very last scene
Character Chemistry: I am flustered because she’s so cute!
Plot: Danya kidnaps Amy. Amy kidnaps Danya. Danya’s twin kidnaps Amy. Danya rescues Amy. Plus intervening adventures. Also includes: a giant science mystery, a terrorist rebel organization, and pirates. And dragons.
Overall: Fun, rip-roaring space adventure with a dollop of romance.
Heat Factor: It’s closed door, so although the subject matter is really gritty and juicy, you won’t find descriptions of heat here.
Character Chemistry: Max and Smith’s relationship is very steady and tender, which is good for Max considering how intense every other aspect of her life is.
Plot: Max is in a 6 year relationship with a married man who is 14 years her senior. Literally her entire life falls apart, and throughout the fall out and all the repair work, her friend Smith slowly turns into someone really special.
Overall: This is a really intense, smut-adjacent book about a woman going through just the absolute worst life has to offer, but at least she’s got a loving family and a hot boyfriend.
Mercenary Librarians, Book #3
Reviews of Mercenary Librarians, Book #1 and Book #2
Heat Factor: Hot enough
Character Chemistry: Dani and Rafe have had electric, elemental chemistry from the beginning of the series
Plot: Overthrowing an evil corporation and reinstating democracy, no big deal
Overall: I was honestly more invested in the dystopia plot than the romance
Heat Factor: There’s no whoopie and there’s actually very little overt sexual tension but somehow I am still TOTALLY invested in this book.
Character Chemistry: They’re meant to be, and it’s adorable. Think “13 Going on 30” meets “Failure to Launch” with a hint of “Bridget Jones’ Diary”
Plot: Dylan and Alyssa were BEST friends growing up, until Alyssa confesses her love for Dylan and ghosts him overnight in embarrassment. When she and her two friends create a side business for nudging reluctant partners in the “right” direction for their clients, Dylan ends up being the job…only Alyssa doesn’t think he needs any fixing. At all.
Overall: This one might be a tiny bit smut adjacent, but it’s AMAZING and I’m completely obsessed with it.
The Smut Report 