Assessment:
Plot/Idea: Steele delivers an unconventional romance, unfolding through the eyes of protagonist Charly, who undergoes significant hardships on her path to true love. Her story is full of high-stakes drama that will hold readers' interest as they root for her happy ending.
Prose: Steele evokes strong emotion in readers as the story progresses, with palpable tension and steamy love scenes. The writing is strong and concise, conveying both action and description equally well.
Originality: Steele offers readers a new look at romance through Charly's intimate connection to two brothers, Dominic and Jax, who are both eager to pursue her. The trio's open-minded acceptance and love for each other is appealing.
Character/Execution: Charly is a strong female lead, confident in what she wants for her future, while Dominic and Jax both engage with her in meaningful ways that fit their different personalities.
Date Submitted: July 10, 2024
As Charly fights those feelings, Dom and Jax wholeheartedly pursue her, nearly from the start of this racy novel. Members of the Iconic Sons Motorcycle Club, a group Charly suspects is not on the up-and-up, the men exude an animal sensuality, using and discarding women for their own empty gratification—until Charly comes along. Steele renders their devil-may-care attitude toward the one-night stands in their lives remarkably well, while still sketching a deeper, caring side to both men that resonates with Charly. Something about Charly strikes Dom and Jax differently, immediately sparking an explosive yearning between the three that sets them on a path to betrayal, abandon, and delicious, steamy sex.
The central relationship in Steele’s novel is unconventional, but she still hits all the right spots for romance fans. Charly needs rescuing, multiple times, and both Dom and Jax are more than up to the task, demonstrating impressive depth for two unattached playboys. Steele transforms their pursuit of Charly into a reflection on belonging, particularly once Charly learns that Dom’s history isn’t much different from her own. Their time between the sheets takes center stage, but Steele uses that as a springboard for a tender—if unorthodox—celebration of love’s enduring bonds.
Takeaway: Steamy love triangle with surprising depth.
Comparable Titles: Beth D. Carter’s Sin, Leah Brooke’s Every Breath.
Production grades
Cover: A-
Design and typography: A-
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: B+
Marketing copy: A
