What do you think?
The Love Conspiracy
Could you fall in love with your husband’s mistress?
Forty-year-old Veronica Marin is a force to be reckoned with - a fierce trial lawyer who's always in control, including in her marriage to Gabe. But when a stranger shows up and exposes Gabe's infidelity, Veronica's reality is rocked. Her solution? To track down all of Gabe's unsuspecting partners before filing for divorce.
Twenty-seven-year-old yoga instructor Ally Franco has it all - a loving family, a thriving career, and a bright future. That is, until Veronica shows up and reveals the shocking truth about her fiancé Gabe.
As they work together to expose his secrets, Veronica and Ally uncover an undeniable attraction to each other. But will they risk everything for love, or stick to their safe, preconceived notions of what their lives should be?
The Love Conspiracy is a steamy, slow burn, sapphic, age-gap romance you won’t be able to put down. Join Veronica and Ally as they navigate love, betrayal, and self-discovery and learn that the greatest love stories come from the most unexpected places.
Content Infidelity is a theme in this novel, but neither main character is unfaithful. Gabe is the only cheater here.
Forty-year-old Veronica Marin is a force to be reckoned with - a fierce trial lawyer who's always in control, including in her marriage to Gabe. But when a stranger shows up and exposes Gabe's infidelity, Veronica's reality is rocked. Her solution? To track down all of Gabe's unsuspecting partners before filing for divorce.
Twenty-seven-year-old yoga instructor Ally Franco has it all - a loving family, a thriving career, and a bright future. That is, until Veronica shows up and reveals the shocking truth about her fiancé Gabe.
As they work together to expose his secrets, Veronica and Ally uncover an undeniable attraction to each other. But will they risk everything for love, or stick to their safe, preconceived notions of what their lives should be?
The Love Conspiracy is a steamy, slow burn, sapphic, age-gap romance you won’t be able to put down. Join Veronica and Ally as they navigate love, betrayal, and self-discovery and learn that the greatest love stories come from the most unexpected places.
Content Infidelity is a theme in this novel, but neither main character is unfaithful. Gabe is the only cheater here.
417 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 2, 2023
About the author
J.J. Arias
38 books1,581 followersHello! And thank you for finding me!
I am an independent author writing about fictional lesbians of all varieties.
My writing journey began with fan faction, and as much as I LOVED being part of a community of super fans, I got tired of working with other people’s characters to tell my stories. I started asking myself: Why should we string together pieces of subtext when our community deserves well-developed main-text about LBGT people and those who love them! So, that is what I aim to deliver.
If you want to know a little more about me personally, J.J. Arias is my pen name. I do have a day job, and due to the industry I’m in, I can’t write under my given name. Although who knows, maybe one day I can write full-time and come out of the … office? I am a Scorpio woman (I know, I know, but I’m a nice one I PROMISE) happily married to a uniquely wonderful Cancer lady. Together we have several fur babies of the feline and canine varieties.
So, here I am, and I hope you enjoy my writing! I’m very open to thoughts, comments, critiques, and knock-knock jokes, so please feel free to message me with any of the above – or anything else you would like to say!
I am an independent author writing about fictional lesbians of all varieties.
My writing journey began with fan faction, and as much as I LOVED being part of a community of super fans, I got tired of working with other people’s characters to tell my stories. I started asking myself: Why should we string together pieces of subtext when our community deserves well-developed main-text about LBGT people and those who love them! So, that is what I aim to deliver.
If you want to know a little more about me personally, J.J. Arias is my pen name. I do have a day job, and due to the industry I’m in, I can’t write under my given name. Although who knows, maybe one day I can write full-time and come out of the … office? I am a Scorpio woman (I know, I know, but I’m a nice one I PROMISE) happily married to a uniquely wonderful Cancer lady. Together we have several fur babies of the feline and canine varieties.
So, here I am, and I hope you enjoy my writing! I’m very open to thoughts, comments, critiques, and knock-knock jokes, so please feel free to message me with any of the above – or anything else you would like to say!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
May 17, 2023
6 stars - this book really shines with clever and engaging writing and sizzling chemistry
A must read for ice queen fans. We have a frosty (Veronica) who has as just found out her husband of 20 years has multiple affair partners and a golden retriever mistress (Allison) who was completely in the dark about her fiancée double/triple/quadruple life.
They get to know each other over the first half of the book as they try to find any other women the husband might be involved with to warn them about him, and so the Veronica can gather evidence for her divorce. She is obsessed with finding out everything because she wants to destroy him. Their growing friendship and attraction is very organic and believable.
As they get to know each other, we get to know them. And I don’t know why this isn’t the norm in most romance novels but it’s nice to understand why they like each other because of who they are as people. We get to know their back stories, and about their families.
Veronica has the biggest growth arc as she has to deal with the massive betrayal by her husband, that actually hits her on multiple levels. It’s like a bomb going off in her life and leads to a lot of emotions and eventual self reflection and evaluation of what she wants out of her life and where she wants to go with it.
For those of us that aren’t huge fans of contrived “dark period” at the 80% mark I am here to tell you that while the MC’s do take a break it is completely needed and understandable. When they come back together, we get the whole last 20% of the book as a HEA stuff. We get this huge gift of just being able to enjoy them enjoying being together. On top of that, we even get a short epilogue that jumps a couple years into the future.
This is definitely one of the best books I’ve read this year and is 100% going on my reread list. If you have Kindle unlimited this is 100% no brainer. If you choose to read it, I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did!
A must read for ice queen fans. We have a frosty (Veronica) who has as just found out her husband of 20 years has multiple affair partners and a golden retriever mistress (Allison) who was completely in the dark about her fiancée double/triple/quadruple life.
They get to know each other over the first half of the book as they try to find any other women the husband might be involved with to warn them about him, and so the Veronica can gather evidence for her divorce. She is obsessed with finding out everything because she wants to destroy him. Their growing friendship and attraction is very organic and believable.
As they get to know each other, we get to know them. And I don’t know why this isn’t the norm in most romance novels but it’s nice to understand why they like each other because of who they are as people. We get to know their back stories, and about their families.
Veronica has the biggest growth arc as she has to deal with the massive betrayal by her husband, that actually hits her on multiple levels. It’s like a bomb going off in her life and leads to a lot of emotions and eventual self reflection and evaluation of what she wants out of her life and where she wants to go with it.
For those of us that aren’t huge fans of contrived “dark period” at the 80% mark I am here to tell you that while the MC’s do take a break it is completely needed and understandable. When they come back together, we get the whole last 20% of the book as a HEA stuff. We get this huge gift of just being able to enjoy them enjoying being together. On top of that, we even get a short epilogue that jumps a couple years into the future.
This is definitely one of the best books I’ve read this year and is 100% going on my reread list. If you have Kindle unlimited this is 100% no brainer. If you choose to read it, I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did!
May 16, 2023
3.5/5
If the movie The Other Woman,the one with Cameron Diaz, was a book, but make it sapphic.
This book could be an utter perfection, but it was tad too long for my liking. That’s basically why the 3.5 stars rating, so if you like long books you will probably rate it higher.
The book follows forty-year-old Veronica Martin, a badass lawyer who has a control with everything in her life. That’s until she founds out her husband is cheating on her with not one, but a few women. One of them is Ally, thirteen years her junior, yoga instructor who had no idea her ‘fiancée' was a cheating douchebag. Both, despite the circumstances, decide to find other women who fell into his trap and make him pay for what he did. Unlike the movie, during all the time they spend together spying on him, their relationship blossoms and turns out into something they never thought it will.
It’s a slow burn, but I think it’s worth the wait. Their relationship is healthy, sweet and slowly, with every chapter grows into something life changing for them.
Definitely not my last read from this author!
If the movie The Other Woman,the one with Cameron Diaz, was a book, but make it sapphic.
This book could be an utter perfection, but it was tad too long for my liking. That’s basically why the 3.5 stars rating, so if you like long books you will probably rate it higher.
The book follows forty-year-old Veronica Martin, a badass lawyer who has a control with everything in her life. That’s until she founds out her husband is cheating on her with not one, but a few women. One of them is Ally, thirteen years her junior, yoga instructor who had no idea her ‘fiancée' was a cheating douchebag. Both, despite the circumstances, decide to find other women who fell into his trap and make him pay for what he did. Unlike the movie, during all the time they spend together spying on him, their relationship blossoms and turns out into something they never thought it will.
"You’re it for me, V. I know that with every single microscopic fiber of my being. I don’t need to wait for the perfect place at the perfect moment. You’re the perfect. You’re the place. You’re the moment.”
It’s a slow burn, but I think it’s worth the wait. Their relationship is healthy, sweet and slowly, with every chapter grows into something life changing for them.
Definitely not my last read from this author!
May 9, 2023
J.J. Arias has taken a risk with writing and releasing a novel about a scorned wife falling for her husband's mistress however I completely think the risk has paid off - this book is brilliant. For me, a romance will only work if I feel as though the connection between the main characters is genuine and sometimes with a storyline like this is can feel too forced as the focus is still on the ex. Thankfully, I didn't need to worry about this though as the relationship between Ally and Veronica is built in a way that felt very genuine and organic, even though the first part is Ally and Veronica pairing up to take down Gabe.
I'm always in awe when I finish a book by Arias - she writes exceptional characters and I fell in love with both Ally and Veronica. They are both strong, passionate women that were super cute together. Their chemistry leaps off the page. It was a joy to read.
Many thanks to J.J. Arias for providing me a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
I'm always in awe when I finish a book by Arias - she writes exceptional characters and I fell in love with both Ally and Veronica. They are both strong, passionate women that were super cute together. Their chemistry leaps off the page. It was a joy to read.
Many thanks to J.J. Arias for providing me a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
May 2, 2025
The Love Conspiracy by JJ Arias is a sapphic slow-burn masterpiece that delivers heart, heat, and healing in equal measure. If you’ve ever watched The Other Woman and thought, “What if Leslie Mann and Cameron Diaz ditched the man and kissed instead?” — this is that fantasy, realized, and so much more.
From the first chapter, I was hooked. JJ Arias continues to prove herself a queen in the sapphic romance space, and somehow, each book levels up in emotional depth and narrative brilliance. This story is original, entertaining, and profoundly romantic, with top-tier banter and a chemistry so tangible it practically sizzles through your earbuds.
Forty-year-old Veronica is the kind of fierce, intelligent woman we need more of in fiction—powerful but human, unapologetically sharp yet deeply vulnerable. Paired with Ally, a gentle, radiant yoga instructor who brings warmth and unexpected insight, the dynamic between them is magnetic. Watching their connection deepen, not just from shared betrayal but mutual growth and respect, was a gift. The way these women see each other, and challenge each other, is what true romance is made of.
Arias avoids the overused third-act breakup trope in favor of honest, grounded storytelling that respects her characters’ intelligence and her readers’ emotional investment. There are no cliche miscommunications here—just real women navigating real heartbreak, trust, desire, and what it means to let go of who you thought you should be.
The quote “Be the river and not the rock” from Ally resonated deeply—one of many emotional gems sprinkled throughout a narrative that doesn’t just tell a love story, it teaches something about resilience and release.
And the narration? Kingsley Rose absolutely shines. Her performance is nuanced and moving, adding dimension and heart to every moment. The emotion she brings to Veronica and Ally’s journey had me glued to my headphones, fully immersed and completely wrecked in the best way.
This book gave me everything I didn’t know I needed. The Love Conspiracy is sexy, wise, empowering, and full of soul. JJ Arias isn’t just writing sapphic romance—she’s out here healing hearts with stories that remind us love can be radical, transformative, and come from the most unexpected places.
From the first chapter, I was hooked. JJ Arias continues to prove herself a queen in the sapphic romance space, and somehow, each book levels up in emotional depth and narrative brilliance. This story is original, entertaining, and profoundly romantic, with top-tier banter and a chemistry so tangible it practically sizzles through your earbuds.
Forty-year-old Veronica is the kind of fierce, intelligent woman we need more of in fiction—powerful but human, unapologetically sharp yet deeply vulnerable. Paired with Ally, a gentle, radiant yoga instructor who brings warmth and unexpected insight, the dynamic between them is magnetic. Watching their connection deepen, not just from shared betrayal but mutual growth and respect, was a gift. The way these women see each other, and challenge each other, is what true romance is made of.
Arias avoids the overused third-act breakup trope in favor of honest, grounded storytelling that respects her characters’ intelligence and her readers’ emotional investment. There are no cliche miscommunications here—just real women navigating real heartbreak, trust, desire, and what it means to let go of who you thought you should be.
The quote “Be the river and not the rock” from Ally resonated deeply—one of many emotional gems sprinkled throughout a narrative that doesn’t just tell a love story, it teaches something about resilience and release.
And the narration? Kingsley Rose absolutely shines. Her performance is nuanced and moving, adding dimension and heart to every moment. The emotion she brings to Veronica and Ally’s journey had me glued to my headphones, fully immersed and completely wrecked in the best way.
This book gave me everything I didn’t know I needed. The Love Conspiracy is sexy, wise, empowering, and full of soul. JJ Arias isn’t just writing sapphic romance—she’s out here healing hearts with stories that remind us love can be radical, transformative, and come from the most unexpected places.
July 12, 2023
Reading a JJ Arias book is always a pleasure. The heat index is scorching, the characters are well developed, and most surprisingly, the intricacies of family dynamics are often central to the stories.
Veronica is a high powered lawyer who discovers her husband, Gabe, has been a serial cheater. She confronts each of the women, most who are totally unaware and who are devastated by the news. Ally is one of them and in a show of empathy to help cushion the blow for these unsuspecting women, she joins Veronica’s crusade. While Veronica can be a brusk slap to the face, Ally is the soft, soothing voice. But during these reconnaissance trips, they bond and discover a middle ground of trust and love.
I was curious to see how the author was going pull this off. It’s a fine line to balance the light of a romance with the toxicity of lies and deceit. When Veronica realizes what she truly lost in her 20 years of marriage to Gabe, it’s crushing. Oftentimes, her drive to bury him seems pointless and like self punishment. But thankfully, she chooses to move forward and it’s a beautiful thing to watch Ally and Veronica grow as individuals and as a couple. It takes a minute but once they get together, the flirting is fun, the sex scenes are dynamite.
If you like age gap connections, high heat, and a little struggle in your romance, The Love Conspiracy is your book.
Veronica is a high powered lawyer who discovers her husband, Gabe, has been a serial cheater. She confronts each of the women, most who are totally unaware and who are devastated by the news. Ally is one of them and in a show of empathy to help cushion the blow for these unsuspecting women, she joins Veronica’s crusade. While Veronica can be a brusk slap to the face, Ally is the soft, soothing voice. But during these reconnaissance trips, they bond and discover a middle ground of trust and love.
I was curious to see how the author was going pull this off. It’s a fine line to balance the light of a romance with the toxicity of lies and deceit. When Veronica realizes what she truly lost in her 20 years of marriage to Gabe, it’s crushing. Oftentimes, her drive to bury him seems pointless and like self punishment. But thankfully, she chooses to move forward and it’s a beautiful thing to watch Ally and Veronica grow as individuals and as a couple. It takes a minute but once they get together, the flirting is fun, the sex scenes are dynamite.
If you like age gap connections, high heat, and a little struggle in your romance, The Love Conspiracy is your book.
November 3, 2023
Perfect mix of humour and spice!
“And the sex was… fill in the blank here.” Jodie waved her arms like they were playing a high stakes game of charades.
“Incredible,” Veronica admitted. “It was like twelve hours of—” “Twelve hours!” Jodie put her hands together in prayer and stared up at the ceiling. “I’ve been so good this year. Can’t I get a twenty-seven-year-old sex goddess to—”
“And the sex was… fill in the blank here.” Jodie waved her arms like they were playing a high stakes game of charades.
“Incredible,” Veronica admitted. “It was like twelve hours of—” “Twelve hours!” Jodie put her hands together in prayer and stared up at the ceiling. “I’ve been so good this year. Can’t I get a twenty-seven-year-old sex goddess to—”
May 5, 2023
Couldn’t put this one down
This was so good! I wasn’t sure I’d buy into the wife/mistress storyline but JJ Arias sold me on their romance. Loved both characters, they were interesting, well written, and their chemistry together was delicious. Seriously, that first kiss *swoon*
This was so good! I wasn’t sure I’d buy into the wife/mistress storyline but JJ Arias sold me on their romance. Loved both characters, they were interesting, well written, and their chemistry together was delicious. Seriously, that first kiss *swoon*
July 3, 2024
This was my second time reading this, and I went with the audiobook this time. I have to say, Kingsley Rose did a fantastic job with the narration and really brought the story to life.
I really liked Veronica and Ally as main characters, and despite their unorthodox first meeting, I believed in their slow-burn HEA. Their dynamic worked for me, and I was rooting for them the whole time.
The only thing I didn’t fully love was that the last 40% dragged a bit. Also, there’s such a strong focus on Veronica’s , so it felt a little odd that it wasn’t mentioned at all in the epilogue. That said, it’s more of a personal preference than a major issue.
Overall, it was a solid read. If you like age gap, enemies to friends to lovers, and a bit of female rage getting its moment, you’ll probably enjoy this.
I really liked Veronica and Ally as main characters, and despite their unorthodox first meeting, I believed in their slow-burn HEA. Their dynamic worked for me, and I was rooting for them the whole time.
The only thing I didn’t fully love was that the last 40% dragged a bit. Also, there’s such a strong focus on Veronica’s , so it felt a little odd that it wasn’t mentioned at all in the epilogue. That said, it’s more of a personal preference than a major issue.
Overall, it was a solid read. If you like age gap, enemies to friends to lovers, and a bit of female rage getting its moment, you’ll probably enjoy this.
May 20, 2023
4.5 stars
I really liked this book. So many thoughts and emotions that Veronica had are similar to my own. The storyline is a bit far fetched but Arias has made it believable. I’d like to think that everyone can find and love their special someone. Arias does a great job in writing this age/gap, ice queen story. My favorite parts are when Ally tells Veronica that “You can only know what you know right now and we can’t live for a tomorrow that never comes. “ Ally is wise beyond her years. Ohh… there is some nice steam in this story too. 🔥🔥
I really liked this book. So many thoughts and emotions that Veronica had are similar to my own. The storyline is a bit far fetched but Arias has made it believable. I’d like to think that everyone can find and love their special someone. Arias does a great job in writing this age/gap, ice queen story. My favorite parts are when Ally tells Veronica that “You can only know what you know right now and we can’t live for a tomorrow that never comes. “ Ally is wise beyond her years. Ohh… there is some nice steam in this story too. 🔥🔥
June 1, 2023
Oh my goodness. I didn't know WHAT to expect when I started reading my 2nd book from JJ Arias' work. This one was definitely a slow burn, but when it got steamy, it got STEAMY. 🥵
I fell in love with both Ally and Veronica so much as MCs! I especially loved the movie references to Thelma and Louise throughout and the climax from the build-up was well worth it. Just a minor spoiler, you'll be pent up and yelling at your Kindle until about 65% in, but I enjoyed that there was not much more beating around the bush (no pun intended) after that point! Will deffos be reading more from JJ Arias soon! 🥰
I fell in love with both Ally and Veronica so much as MCs! I especially loved the movie references to Thelma and Louise throughout and the climax from the build-up was well worth it. Just a minor spoiler, you'll be pent up and yelling at your Kindle until about 65% in, but I enjoyed that there was not much more beating around the bush (no pun intended) after that point! Will deffos be reading more from JJ Arias soon! 🥰
July 19, 2026
This was a lovely, but fairly down the line sapphic Contemporary Romance, which is to say I don’t have much to say. The 3AB* was rather sweet and fit so well into the plot, it needs to be called out for a kudos. Other than that, read and enjoy.
This was my second Arias novel and I enjoyed it more than Like First Love, Again, and I believe I have a Holiday Romance by the author on my WTR Shelf, so I’m looking forward to reading that later this year.
Cheers.
*Third-Act Breakup
This was my second Arias novel and I enjoyed it more than Like First Love, Again, and I believe I have a Holiday Romance by the author on my WTR Shelf, so I’m looking forward to reading that later this year.
Cheers.
*Third-Act Breakup
July 15, 2023
4+ ⭐️
A somewhat uncommon plot, to me at least, of finding love with your husband’s mistress… Veronica and Ally met under a bizarre circumstance where they both have a common interest - Gabe, Veronica’s husband & Ally’s fiancée. Sparks ignited as both Veronica and Ally spent time together trying to unravel Gabe’s infidelities. Though I must add that I somehow missed the lead-up to our two MCs developing their relationship - from not friends to friendly terms and eventual lovers. The transition to developing feelings for each other seemed abrupt which was my only qualm. All in all, this was an absolutely entertaining read.
A somewhat uncommon plot, to me at least, of finding love with your husband’s mistress… Veronica and Ally met under a bizarre circumstance where they both have a common interest - Gabe, Veronica’s husband & Ally’s fiancée. Sparks ignited as both Veronica and Ally spent time together trying to unravel Gabe’s infidelities. Though I must add that I somehow missed the lead-up to our two MCs developing their relationship - from not friends to friendly terms and eventual lovers. The transition to developing feelings for each other seemed abrupt which was my only qualm. All in all, this was an absolutely entertaining read.
May 11, 2023
4.5 stars. Good book from an established author, really loved how distinct the characters and their voices are and how that manifests in their interactions and romance. The theme is also excellently executed although I'd prefer a more classical ending to this trope but the current ending works very well for the characters established. Overall, a great book.
January 18, 2026
This is worth every bit of highest rating I could give. I can't believe I let this one sit in my TBR list for as long as I did. I savored every page, every MC interaction, humour, pacing, even the premise (which is weird at first but is handled delicately and properly throughout the book). Sparks fly off the pages on this one. Definitely the first 2026 addition to my fave list.
May 26, 2023
So good! Loving everything Arias writes!
December 21, 2025
Absolutely loved this one! I especially liked that Gabe was written in a way that shows how charming and charismatic some of the worst people can be.
I definitely see myself rereading this.
I definitely see myself rereading this.
July 26, 2024
I'm slowly but surely making my way through Arias's books! I put this one off for a while because I was unsure of the premise, but it ended up being a solid 4 stars for me.
What I liked:
Despite the weird premise—the wife and the mistress/fianceé of the same man fall in love—I think it worked. It was the right amount of 'omg, what?' that made me want to keep reading to find out what happens.
I liked both Ally and Veronica. I'm not into all that 'woo woo' (actual quote from the book, lol) yoga stuff that Ally occasionally said, but I liked her character all the same. I was a bit more unsure of Veronica—it was like she was trying to be an ice queen but didn't quite manage—but I ended up liking her too.
What I didn't like (spoilers here):
I really didn't like that Veronica didn't follow through on Gabe's tax evasion evidence. I get the whole discovery of his infidelity and multiple partners was making her ill, but the way she just dropped her investigation irritated me. I would have rinced him dry of everything he had 🤷♀️
I would have liked more from Veronica's realisation that she liked women/Ally. There was pretty much zero internal conflict/thoughts on the fact. She never comments on it. I know some people realise their sexuality with little to no fuss (see: my wife), but it just came across as strange, especially given the added complication of Ally being Veronica's husband's fianceé.
I know I sound like a stuck record to everyone who follows my reviews, and I know age gaps are what Arias does, but I don't like them. I guess 13 years isn't the worst I've seen. And it actually wasn't that bad in this book.
On to the next!
What I liked:
Despite the weird premise—the wife and the mistress/fianceé of the same man fall in love—I think it worked. It was the right amount of 'omg, what?' that made me want to keep reading to find out what happens.
I liked both Ally and Veronica. I'm not into all that 'woo woo' (actual quote from the book, lol) yoga stuff that Ally occasionally said, but I liked her character all the same. I was a bit more unsure of Veronica—it was like she was trying to be an ice queen but didn't quite manage—but I ended up liking her too.
What I didn't like (spoilers here):
I really didn't like that Veronica didn't follow through on Gabe's tax evasion evidence. I get the whole discovery of his infidelity and multiple partners was making her ill, but the way she just dropped her investigation irritated me. I would have rinced him dry of everything he had 🤷♀️
I would have liked more from Veronica's realisation that she liked women/Ally. There was pretty much zero internal conflict/thoughts on the fact. She never comments on it. I know some people realise their sexuality with little to no fuss (see: my wife), but it just came across as strange, especially given the added complication of Ally being Veronica's husband's fianceé.
I know I sound like a stuck record to everyone who follows my reviews, and I know age gaps are what Arias does, but I don't like them. I guess 13 years isn't the worst I've seen. And it actually wasn't that bad in this book.
On to the next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 14, 2024
I can always count on J.J. Arias for drama-free good time with pleasant characters to cheer me up.
July 16, 2026
Holy moly. That was delicious. If you think highly competent women are sexy and practically squeal when they meet their match in the form of a perceptive and kind woman, I have a feeling, you’ll love this one. Lemme just say, this book felt like catnip for me.
For anyone like me who had reservations about the premise, I was so pleasantly surprised. It could have easily felt like the story revolved around the male presence. Instead, while he’s certainly there, he never becomes the focal point I expected. It is very much about two competent women slowly, beautifully melting for eachother in their own unique ways. Also if you go feral for eyebrow quirks, licked lips and subtle eye shifts…you’ll probably eat up the tension this book delivers. The moment Ally first presses Veronica? Gold. Their first “date” (or rather, their first meeting after Philly) had me holding my breath. Even seemingly small moments, like a scene by the pool in Vegas, had me speed-reading because the tension was so good. I love how the characters prioritize health and healing in this book. I love how it’s done with levity and humor. And the spice is so well-earned. I mean..I could keep going.
One thing I have noticed about Arias’s books is that she always leaves me wanting to chase whatever experience she wrote about. I walk away with..”Oooo I wanna try that kind of food.” Or “Uhm, I NEED to visit *insert place*.” Or “Does something like this exist?! I need to go!” I love that as a reader and now I look for those moments when I read her books.
As painful as the circumstances were, the emotional weight never made the story feel heavy. Instead, it just made me want more…and more. Which was exactly the read I wanted at this moment.✨
For anyone like me who had reservations about the premise, I was so pleasantly surprised. It could have easily felt like the story revolved around the male presence. Instead, while he’s certainly there, he never becomes the focal point I expected. It is very much about two competent women slowly, beautifully melting for eachother in their own unique ways. Also if you go feral for eyebrow quirks, licked lips and subtle eye shifts…you’ll probably eat up the tension this book delivers. The moment Ally first presses Veronica? Gold. Their first “date” (or rather, their first meeting after Philly) had me holding my breath. Even seemingly small moments, like a scene by the pool in Vegas, had me speed-reading because the tension was so good. I love how the characters prioritize health and healing in this book. I love how it’s done with levity and humor. And the spice is so well-earned. I mean..I could keep going.
One thing I have noticed about Arias’s books is that she always leaves me wanting to chase whatever experience she wrote about. I walk away with..”Oooo I wanna try that kind of food.” Or “Uhm, I NEED to visit *insert place*.” Or “Does something like this exist?! I need to go!” I love that as a reader and now I look for those moments when I read her books.
As painful as the circumstances were, the emotional weight never made the story feel heavy. Instead, it just made me want more…and more. Which was exactly the read I wanted at this moment.✨
September 30, 2024
I guess I’ll be adding another audiobook to my library. After reading this, I am for sure going to read it again and listen to it.
This is a very clever take on an ice queen/sunshine and age gap romance. Ally is superb and emotionally mature. Veronica is driven and frankly, a badass. These two characters get to know each other very well in their mission to take down the bad guy. The bad guy isn’t a secret, so I’m not spoiling anything. Ally’s empathy and Veronica’s desire to get justice for herself match each other perfectly.
No dumb miscommunication tropes and the little break (not a black hole in the last third of the book) makes complete sense in the story and isn’t full of angst. I hate the angst and this book gave me a lovely respite from that. I was not frustrated with the age gap at all. Sometimes the age gap feels a little icky because one of the characters comes off as a little predatory. Not in this gem of a book. Yes, it’s a gem.
The spice was great. If there were more, I would have given 6 stars. It was hot and steamy without being too smutty. The level of spice really fit with the characters and their journey. Chef’s kiss for the spice. Mwah!
Of all the J.J. Arias books, this one is the best I’ve read and it’s one of the best sapphic books I’ve read.
This is a very clever take on an ice queen/sunshine and age gap romance. Ally is superb and emotionally mature. Veronica is driven and frankly, a badass. These two characters get to know each other very well in their mission to take down the bad guy. The bad guy isn’t a secret, so I’m not spoiling anything. Ally’s empathy and Veronica’s desire to get justice for herself match each other perfectly.
No dumb miscommunication tropes and the little break (not a black hole in the last third of the book) makes complete sense in the story and isn’t full of angst. I hate the angst and this book gave me a lovely respite from that. I was not frustrated with the age gap at all. Sometimes the age gap feels a little icky because one of the characters comes off as a little predatory. Not in this gem of a book. Yes, it’s a gem.
The spice was great. If there were more, I would have given 6 stars. It was hot and steamy without being too smutty. The level of spice really fit with the characters and their journey. Chef’s kiss for the spice. Mwah!
Of all the J.J. Arias books, this one is the best I’ve read and it’s one of the best sapphic books I’ve read.
May 22, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
July 12, 2026
J.J. Arias has become one of my go-to authors. I haven’t read a book of hers I haven’t liked.
One of my favorite things about her books is that she doesn’t cut corners. The stories are fully fleshed out and she takes the time to give readers satisfying endings.
This is narrated by Kingsley Rose, Arias’s most chosen narrator. She’s got a raspy, sexy voice and though there’s little differentiation between character voices, their frequent collaboration makes her the “voice” of J.J. Arias.
While the circumstances of Veronica and Ally’s meeting could have made this romance feel improbable or even a little icky, it’s anything but. In the end, it’s very romantic, hot and satisfying.
Looking forward to the rest of Arias’s catalog!
One of my favorite things about her books is that she doesn’t cut corners. The stories are fully fleshed out and she takes the time to give readers satisfying endings.
This is narrated by Kingsley Rose, Arias’s most chosen narrator. She’s got a raspy, sexy voice and though there’s little differentiation between character voices, their frequent collaboration makes her the “voice” of J.J. Arias.
While the circumstances of Veronica and Ally’s meeting could have made this romance feel improbable or even a little icky, it’s anything but. In the end, it’s very romantic, hot and satisfying.
Looking forward to the rest of Arias’s catalog!
May 27, 2023
4.5 🤍
Ally held her gaze like there was nothing else going on around them. Like she wanted to speak directly to her soul. She so often looked at her like that. Like she was always seeing the barest version of her. Like she was trying to push further in. Get to her very essence.
-
“I’m sure I want to marry you today. Tomorrow. Next month. In seven months. You’re it for me, V. I know that with every single microscopic fiber of my being. I don’t need to wait for the perfect place at the perfect moment. You’re the perfect. You’re the place. You’re the moment.”
J.J. Arias DID IT AGAIN!!!!! amazing book, AMAZING characters and such a lovely story.
Ally held her gaze like there was nothing else going on around them. Like she wanted to speak directly to her soul. She so often looked at her like that. Like she was always seeing the barest version of her. Like she was trying to push further in. Get to her very essence.
-
“I’m sure I want to marry you today. Tomorrow. Next month. In seven months. You’re it for me, V. I know that with every single microscopic fiber of my being. I don’t need to wait for the perfect place at the perfect moment. You’re the perfect. You’re the place. You’re the moment.”
J.J. Arias DID IT AGAIN!!!!! amazing book, AMAZING characters and such a lovely story.
May 19, 2023
oh so good 🥰
I love this so much. Arias NEVER disappoints. It’s just so real, lovely, deep, and soulful. Every 👏 single 👏 time 👏
I love this so much. Arias NEVER disappoints. It’s just so real, lovely, deep, and soulful. Every 👏 single 👏 time 👏
August 10, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 stars)
GOSH! This book kept me hooked!! And damn, well written age-gap books always get me.
But let’s start with the actual review, the two main characters Veronica and Ally are genuinely great leads. Despite their unorthodox meeting, I found myself fully invested in their slow-burn relationship, and literally rooted for them the entire way. Ally in particular is a delight. She’s confident and funny, and I loved watching Veronica let her walls down after a while and let Ally's light in. J.J Arias also handles Veronica's journey with her sexuality really thoughtfully, which added some really nice depth beneath all the sweetness in my opinion. Moreover, I think the chemistry between the two sizzles all throighout the book. And there’s literally such a satisfying dose of female rage woven throughout that makes the "revenge" angle land well without tipping into anything too heavy. I even have a note inside the book saying that it reads almost like a sapphic spin on The Other Woman, and honestly...who doesn’t love that?
My only real critique is the pacing toward the end. The last stretch runs a bit longer than it needs to, and I found myself slightly impatient when there was still around 50 pages of the book left after the couple had already worked through their issues. That said, it didn't end up dragging as much as I feared. And I mean it can also be seeen as getting extra time watching Veronica and Ally settle into their relationship which in turn actually worked in the book's favor. However, I do wanna say that I would have loved a little more time with the side characters too since they were wildly enjoyable in the moments they did get.
Overall, this was a sweet, funny, surprisingly low-angst read (which is pretty quick once you get hooked) with real chemistry and characters worth spending extra time with! Loved it and would totally recommend if you want to read a quick romance with an age gap.
GOSH! This book kept me hooked!! And damn, well written age-gap books always get me.
But let’s start with the actual review, the two main characters Veronica and Ally are genuinely great leads. Despite their unorthodox meeting, I found myself fully invested in their slow-burn relationship, and literally rooted for them the entire way. Ally in particular is a delight. She’s confident and funny, and I loved watching Veronica let her walls down after a while and let Ally's light in. J.J Arias also handles Veronica's journey with her sexuality really thoughtfully, which added some really nice depth beneath all the sweetness in my opinion. Moreover, I think the chemistry between the two sizzles all throighout the book. And there’s literally such a satisfying dose of female rage woven throughout that makes the "revenge" angle land well without tipping into anything too heavy. I even have a note inside the book saying that it reads almost like a sapphic spin on The Other Woman, and honestly...who doesn’t love that?
My only real critique is the pacing toward the end. The last stretch runs a bit longer than it needs to, and I found myself slightly impatient when there was still around 50 pages of the book left after the couple had already worked through their issues. That said, it didn't end up dragging as much as I feared. And I mean it can also be seeen as getting extra time watching Veronica and Ally settle into their relationship which in turn actually worked in the book's favor. However, I do wanna say that I would have loved a little more time with the side characters too since they were wildly enjoyable in the moments they did get.
Overall, this was a sweet, funny, surprisingly low-angst read (which is pretty quick once you get hooked) with real chemistry and characters worth spending extra time with! Loved it and would totally recommend if you want to read a quick romance with an age gap.
June 9, 2023
I’ve always enjoyed JJ Arias’ books so I begin Chapter One with that expectation. I’m never let down. This is a wonderful story with a far from favourable beginning, a resulting period of emotional angst and it slides into a satisfying ‘falling in love’. True love. Great characters. It’s definitely not superficial. And an acknowledging nod to sisters, be they biological or chosen. Some subtle thought-provoking ideas for going forward with life. Yes, definitely 5-star.
June 10, 2023
Entertaining read!
One of the things i loved about this story is the women binding together as against the normal rivalry for some SHIT.
This is one of a few authors whose subsequent novels increasingly endear me to them rather than the opposition.
One of the things i loved about this story is the women binding together as against the normal rivalry for some SHIT.
This is one of a few authors whose subsequent novels increasingly endear me to them rather than the opposition.
April 23, 2026
i’ve been in a bit of a reading slump lately and life has been pretty busy, but i really missed reading. i needed something engaging enough to hold my attention, but easy enough that it wouldn’t feel exhausting, and this was IT.
this story was surprisingly low angst (i was expecting a lot more given the premise) and even though there were a few small things that didn’t really work for me, i just couldn’t not give it 5 stars.
any book that manages to pull me out of a slump, get me excited about reading again and keep me hooked during such a chaotic time in my life deserves it.
this story was surprisingly low angst (i was expecting a lot more given the premise) and even though there were a few small things that didn’t really work for me, i just couldn’t not give it 5 stars.
any book that manages to pull me out of a slump, get me excited about reading again and keep me hooked during such a chaotic time in my life deserves it.
February 18, 2024
This may be my top JJ Arias book (or perhaps a close second to Destination You)
How JJ weaves the story to set up the romance feels surprisingly natural given the particular conceit (and I'll avoid saying what it is to prevent spoilers). Still, once I was in, I was very much in. I don't think I put the book aside until I finished reading it, much later in the night.
As the romance blooms, the book shifts gears. How JJ can do this and make the momentum feel completely natural is a bit of a magic trick to me, but she does it so well. The characters themselves, as their interest in each other grows, so too do we feel it as a reader. The ways they show their affection wins us over, and we pull just as hard for them to get together.
I also adore this book for what it has to say about how we as people live through heartache and how we learn to thrive. There's something to be seen here that's under the surface that I think a lot of folks will resonate with. I'm very much looking forward to re-reading it.
How JJ weaves the story to set up the romance feels surprisingly natural given the particular conceit (and I'll avoid saying what it is to prevent spoilers). Still, once I was in, I was very much in. I don't think I put the book aside until I finished reading it, much later in the night.
As the romance blooms, the book shifts gears. How JJ can do this and make the momentum feel completely natural is a bit of a magic trick to me, but she does it so well. The characters themselves, as their interest in each other grows, so too do we feel it as a reader. The ways they show their affection wins us over, and we pull just as hard for them to get together.
I also adore this book for what it has to say about how we as people live through heartache and how we learn to thrive. There's something to be seen here that's under the surface that I think a lot of folks will resonate with. I'm very much looking forward to re-reading it.
May 25, 2023
Throughly Enjoyable
I wasn’t sure I would like this book because of the premise, it didn’t really appeal to me. I saw some great reviews and decided I would try it. I am so happy I did.
The writing style, the level of detail, the funny dialogue, it all appealed to me. This is one of my most favorite books!
I thought the detail following the culmination of the main topic was superb. Sometimes when I read a book there is this huge buildup and when it is resolved the book ends quickly afterwards. I am left wondering what happened. Not this book. It follows the story through to a perfect ending.
Oh, I didn’t even mention the steamy parts! Yum!
I wasn’t sure I would like this book because of the premise, it didn’t really appeal to me. I saw some great reviews and decided I would try it. I am so happy I did.
The writing style, the level of detail, the funny dialogue, it all appealed to me. This is one of my most favorite books!
I thought the detail following the culmination of the main topic was superb. Sometimes when I read a book there is this huge buildup and when it is resolved the book ends quickly afterwards. I am left wondering what happened. Not this book. It follows the story through to a perfect ending.
Oh, I didn’t even mention the steamy parts! Yum!
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