April 15, 2024
In this appealingly fluffy triad romance, Alexander (Chef’s Choice) explores sweet and authentic queer relationship dynamics. Jaded bartender Mel Sorrento tries not to take the obvious flirtation of a new customer, bubbly lawyer Blair “Bebe” Murray, too seriously after seeing her clearly loving relationship with her stoic nonbinary wife, the artist Kade St. Cloud. Then Bebe invites Mel to a brunch party at their upscale apartment, an event that yields two encouraging opportunities: information on an upcoming prestige cocktail competition that could put Mel on the path toward opening her own bar, and a disclosure that Bebe and Kade are polyamorous. Bebe would like to date Mel, with Kade’s blessing and an updatable list of guidelines to keep all three of them feeling comfortable. Mel’s self-confidence blossoms as she explores both her passion for mixology and her easy connection with Bebe. Readers get the joy of both a fast-burning romance between the two women and a slower-burning love story between Mel and Kade, whose initially uncertain relationship builds into a well-negotiated romantic connection. Sweet and spicy sex scenes center on the pleasure of discovering which interactions work best with each character’s distinctive styles and celebrate the erotic value of communication. Readers hungry for representation of community-supported nonmonogamy that doesn’t skimp on either love or sex will happily gulp this down.
Starred review from May 1, 2024
Mixologist Mel is working her normal shift at the bar when a gorgeous stranger, Bebe, walks in and flirts outrageously with her. Mel thinks she's gotten the wrong idea when Bebe then introduces her to her husband, Kade. Confused but intrigued, Mel decides to show up for a dinner party at their home, where she learns that Bebe and Kade are in an open, polyamorous relationship. After some negotiations, commitment-phobe Mel agrees to casually date Bebe. But Mel soon begins to fall head over heels for Bebe and struggles to figure out how to handle her blossoming feelings. When Mel and Kade find themselves stranded alone together in a cabin during a severe winter storm, they explore their unexpected attraction and end up forging a strong connection. Now they must navigate a relationship where all three are in love with each other. This unconventional arrangement is not only more complex but also more fulfilling than they'd imagined. VERDICT Told in three parts and featuring a wide spectrum of LGBTQIA+ characters, including a strong nonbinary love interest, Alexander's (Second Chances in New Port Stephen) fresh take on the genre is a must-buy for any romance collection.--Migdalia Jimenez
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