These are the Advance Reader Copies I read that release this month. Read on to see my verdicts on each of them! Thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for the copies in exchange for an honest review.
By the Book by Jasmine Guillory
Verdict: Not for me. I’m the wrong audience for this.
This would be a great transition from YA novels to romance novels, but it was altogether too juvenile for me. I found myself getting annoyed at everything. The Beauty and the Beast references were painful conspicuous. (“Kettle” being a character’s nickname?)
I love Guillory but this was not it for me.
The Wedding Season by Katy Birchall
Verdict: Really fun!
Not really a romance novel (although it’s clear from the tone that it will end happily), it’s more about a breakup and Freya’s journey of self-discovery and character growth. There were fun moments!
I liked how the ex-fiancé wasn’t a complete evil villain. He made many poor decisions but learning more about why he called off the wedding was interesting and realistic. I was worried about how many characters were in this cast, but they all felt distinct enough to me that I never got confused. The writing style is really fun; lots of clever observations without bogging down the flow of the story.
It was missing that extra spark I like to see in a romance but it was still a great time and a book I’d recommend to readers who enjoy a closed-door contemporary romance.
Games in a Ballroom by Jentry Flint
Verdict: DNF at 30%
Overall just confused and bored. I don’t feel compelled by any of the scenarios or the characters. From the synopsis the “games” sounded fun, but in practice it was just confusing and boring. The gambling, Emerson’s friends… all just seemed too disjointed. I’m sure it would have come together but I was dreading picking this book up.
Adult Assembly Required by Abbi Waxman
It didn’t take long before I was hooked and utterly engaged, even though it featured things that usually turn me off. This novel was more women’s fiction than romance, although the romance was so charming and relatable. Laura was such an endearing heroine, and I was so invested in her journey to become independent and face her fears. She was such a loveable character. Bob was also great, even though his inability to communicate was at time frustrating. (It did make for some great tension though!)
There were so many cute stories with the side characters and nuggets of wisdom and trivia. This book has a huge cast of characters, most of whom are quirky and eccentric. Usually this is something I hate, but in this case it worked for me! I was never confused about who every one was and what their purpose. I think this is because early on the author really developed rapport and trust with the reader. I knew she was going to deliver and keep everyone straight.
The Bride Goes Rogue by Joanna Shupe
Verdict: Loved! Spicy and fun.
This book was so sparkly, indulgent, and romantic. It was extremely spicy, but done in a very classy way. Basically just “friends with benefits” with the added complication of the fact that they were supposed to be betrothed.
The plot isn’t too serious and the stakes aren’t extremely high; it’s mostly just a compelling premise full of chances for delightful romps. I loved the sweeping Gilded Age setting and the dynamic characters.
Meg Loves Words 