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You Had Me at Merlot
What do you get when you combine a sweet cinnamon twist and robust Italian wine? Bestselling author Melissa Brayden’s You Had Me at Merlot, the perfect blend of sugar and spice.
Bordeauxnuts is New York City magic, and it all belongs to Jamie Tolliver. A charming coffee and doughnut spot by day, Bordeauxnuts transforms with a sprinkle of powdered sugar into a cozy sophisticated wine bar each evening. Jamie’s enjoying a blueberry latte with her quirky band of regulars when a stunning and enigmatic stranger saunters in, flips her laptop open, and Jamie’s world upside down. Each time Jamie speaks to Leighton Morrow, her crush multiplies. She’s drawn to Leighton's captivating presence, her kindness, and the faint lip print she leaves on her cup that winds a tingle up Jamie’s spine.
But sexy spine tingles can be deceiving.
Leighton Morrow didn’t set out to ruin anyone’s life, but she has a job to do. As a development coordinator for Carrington’s Department Store, Leighton’s part of the team that plans to take over the city block for the new location, including demolishing her new favorite café, Bordeauxnuts. A shame, but that’s life. She’ll miss the apple fritters and the cute owner. But work is a No Feelings Zone and she definitely cannot give in to the ones she has percolating for Jamie. Leighton and Jamie have all the ingredients to turn their attraction into love, but it’s a recipe for disaster.
Bordeauxnuts is New York City magic, and it all belongs to Jamie Tolliver. A charming coffee and doughnut spot by day, Bordeauxnuts transforms with a sprinkle of powdered sugar into a cozy sophisticated wine bar each evening. Jamie’s enjoying a blueberry latte with her quirky band of regulars when a stunning and enigmatic stranger saunters in, flips her laptop open, and Jamie’s world upside down. Each time Jamie speaks to Leighton Morrow, her crush multiplies. She’s drawn to Leighton's captivating presence, her kindness, and the faint lip print she leaves on her cup that winds a tingle up Jamie’s spine.
But sexy spine tingles can be deceiving.
Leighton Morrow didn’t set out to ruin anyone’s life, but she has a job to do. As a development coordinator for Carrington’s Department Store, Leighton’s part of the team that plans to take over the city block for the new location, including demolishing her new favorite café, Bordeauxnuts. A shame, but that’s life. She’ll miss the apple fritters and the cute owner. But work is a No Feelings Zone and she definitely cannot give in to the ones she has percolating for Jamie. Leighton and Jamie have all the ingredients to turn their attraction into love, but it’s a recipe for disaster.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 13, 2024
79 people are currently reading
1016 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Brayden
32 books2,758 followersMelissa Brayden is the multi-award winning author of more than twenty-five sapphic romance novels and is hard at work on more. She is a wine enthusiast, a fan of all donuts, and is probably staring off into space as you're reading this. You can find her at www.melissabrayden.com and on most social media sites.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
March 5, 2024
(Review contains minor spoiler)
Bordeauxnuts, a café and wine bar in one, where a gorgeous woman walks in one day and makes quite the impression on it’s owner, Jamie. Dates and adult activities later and Jamie still doesn’t know Leighton works for the company planning on demolishing her café.
3 years later Leighton and Jamie have both moved on.. right? Jamie can’t imagine ever trusting Leighton again and lets her know just as such. Friends is where Jamie draws the line, a mistake she comes to regret.
A sweet read. Nothing special but I enjoyed it. Well written. Third pov. Great sexual tension and chemistry. Likable main characters. Obvious storyline. From what I understand, some of the secondary characters in this book have their own books. We didn’t get any backstory on them and I would have liked to get to know them a bit, I liked them overall though. I just wanted to get to know them better.
The pacing was fine for the most part. But I do think the 3 year gap was excessive and I do think Jamie overreacted. The conflict could easily have been solved within months with some grovelling. I think Jamie’s reaction was a bit much. If she would have let Leighton explain, she would have saved them both a lot of time. What Leighton did was wrong, yes, but they’d gone on two dates and had sex once. That’s nowhere near committed relationship levels and Leighton was unfairly judged by Jamie and secondary characters. You might have to read the book to understand where I’m coming from but to me, Leighton made an honest mistake and nowhere near an unforgivable one.
There’s quite a lot of other woman involved. The mc’s date others until about 85% in. Toward the end I got so sick of it. Being with someone else and pretending to be happy isn’t very mature behaviour. I didn’t catch Jamie’s age but Leighton is in her late thirties. I’m 19 and know forcing happiness won’t actually get you there. I do wish they would have broken up with their significant others earlier.
The HEA wasn’t satisfying to me at all, it was all a bit rushed. From 10-100 within a few pages and we didn’t get to see the mc’s as a couple for more than a couple of pages.
(If you read the prologue and get worried about the voice-over Jamie have going on in her head, don’t be. It makes very few appearances after)
CW: mention of cancer and death of family member.
I received an ARC in exchange for a review. All opinions here are my own.
3.5 stars
Bordeauxnuts, a café and wine bar in one, where a gorgeous woman walks in one day and makes quite the impression on it’s owner, Jamie. Dates and adult activities later and Jamie still doesn’t know Leighton works for the company planning on demolishing her café.
3 years later Leighton and Jamie have both moved on.. right? Jamie can’t imagine ever trusting Leighton again and lets her know just as such. Friends is where Jamie draws the line, a mistake she comes to regret.
A sweet read. Nothing special but I enjoyed it. Well written. Third pov. Great sexual tension and chemistry. Likable main characters. Obvious storyline. From what I understand, some of the secondary characters in this book have their own books. We didn’t get any backstory on them and I would have liked to get to know them a bit, I liked them overall though. I just wanted to get to know them better.
The pacing was fine for the most part. But I do think the 3 year gap was excessive and I do think Jamie overreacted. The conflict could easily have been solved within months with some grovelling. I think Jamie’s reaction was a bit much. If she would have let Leighton explain, she would have saved them both a lot of time. What Leighton did was wrong, yes, but they’d gone on two dates and had sex once. That’s nowhere near committed relationship levels and Leighton was unfairly judged by Jamie and secondary characters. You might have to read the book to understand where I’m coming from but to me, Leighton made an honest mistake and nowhere near an unforgivable one.
There’s quite a lot of other woman involved. The mc’s date others until about 85% in. Toward the end I got so sick of it. Being with someone else and pretending to be happy isn’t very mature behaviour. I didn’t catch Jamie’s age but Leighton is in her late thirties. I’m 19 and know forcing happiness won’t actually get you there. I do wish they would have broken up with their significant others earlier.
The HEA wasn’t satisfying to me at all, it was all a bit rushed. From 10-100 within a few pages and we didn’t get to see the mc’s as a couple for more than a couple of pages.
(If you read the prologue and get worried about the voice-over Jamie have going on in her head, don’t be. It makes very few appearances after)
CW: mention of cancer and death of family member.
I received an ARC in exchange for a review. All opinions here are my own.
3.5 stars
January 29, 2024
This has been a really sweet story, with the author's usual style, set in New York, starring wonderful, successful and not at all conceited women, a quite ideal world to be honest, but who wouldn't like to be part of this gang?
I confess that I started reading it with a bit of skepticism since lately this author had disappointed me on several occasions. Her formula was repetitive and predictable and she forced the drama as if it had to be included no matter what. And I am anti-drama or I accept minimal drama in general, hence my disappointments.
And the drama here, although it is everywhere at once, has been tolerated by me with a certain pleasure, which has surprised me, because I confess that in the 30% of the book, with the first dramatic situation, I have been on the verge of DNF . Thank goodness I have decided to continue.
Jamie is the owner of Bordeauxnuts, a morning café and afternoon bar that offers coffee and donuts and wine, in all possible varieties of the three products. One day, Leighton enters the cafe and from the moment she and Jamie see each other, a story begins between them, which develops over time through encounters, disappointments, reunions and misunderstandings, which has been moving, romantic and passionate.
Really interesting and recommended.
Publisher Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for an honest review
I confess that I started reading it with a bit of skepticism since lately this author had disappointed me on several occasions. Her formula was repetitive and predictable and she forced the drama as if it had to be included no matter what. And I am anti-drama or I accept minimal drama in general, hence my disappointments.
And the drama here, although it is everywhere at once, has been tolerated by me with a certain pleasure, which has surprised me, because I confess that in the 30% of the book, with the first dramatic situation, I have been on the verge of DNF . Thank goodness I have decided to continue.
Jamie is the owner of Bordeauxnuts, a morning café and afternoon bar that offers coffee and donuts and wine, in all possible varieties of the three products. One day, Leighton enters the cafe and from the moment she and Jamie see each other, a story begins between them, which develops over time through encounters, disappointments, reunions and misunderstandings, which has been moving, romantic and passionate.
Really interesting and recommended.
Publisher Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for an honest review
February 14, 2024
4,25⭐️
I wish Jamie and her coffee/wine bar Bordeauxnuts were in my hometown of Zurich, it would definitely be my favorite place to go.
When Jamie Tolliver, the proud owner of Bordeauxnuts, sees Leighton Marrow, a development coordinator for Carrington's Department Store, in front of her for the first time, the world stops for a few seconds. The usually eloquent and charming Jamie is momentarily speechless, which never happens to her. Between the two, the sparks are flying high from the first eye contact - a fateful moment for Jamie and Leighton. Only they have no idea what a rollercoaster ride of emotions lies ahead of them.
New York City, small business owner versus large department stores' chain. Carrington Department Store wants to take over the building complex where Bordeauxnuts is rented, putting Jamie and her coffee/wine bar out on the street. When feelings between Leighton and Jamie come into play, things get messy. And as is almost always the case when all the cards are not laid out on the table, people get hurt and trust is lost.
Melissa Brayden emotionally tells the story of Jamie and Leighton. Loyalty and honesty play an important role, and a breach of trust weighs heavily. I can well understand that I also have a great sense of justice and find it difficult to forgive betrayal. Time and the ability to self-reflect help both to develop further, to recognize what is important, and not simply settle for second best. The timing of the two finally confessing their feelings couldn't be lousier though, it almost looked like winning the lottery was the bigger chance.
I also liked the regulars at the café, the family and friends who helped them find the right path and see what had been in front of their eyes for a long time. Please take a seat on the rollercoaster and ride up and down with Jamie and Leighton, occasionally with a loop, until they finally reach their destination.
Thanks to Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley for receiving an ARC for an honest review.
I wish Jamie and her coffee/wine bar Bordeauxnuts were in my hometown of Zurich, it would definitely be my favorite place to go.
When Jamie Tolliver, the proud owner of Bordeauxnuts, sees Leighton Marrow, a development coordinator for Carrington's Department Store, in front of her for the first time, the world stops for a few seconds. The usually eloquent and charming Jamie is momentarily speechless, which never happens to her. Between the two, the sparks are flying high from the first eye contact - a fateful moment for Jamie and Leighton. Only they have no idea what a rollercoaster ride of emotions lies ahead of them.
New York City, small business owner versus large department stores' chain. Carrington Department Store wants to take over the building complex where Bordeauxnuts is rented, putting Jamie and her coffee/wine bar out on the street. When feelings between Leighton and Jamie come into play, things get messy. And as is almost always the case when all the cards are not laid out on the table, people get hurt and trust is lost.
Melissa Brayden emotionally tells the story of Jamie and Leighton. Loyalty and honesty play an important role, and a breach of trust weighs heavily. I can well understand that I also have a great sense of justice and find it difficult to forgive betrayal. Time and the ability to self-reflect help both to develop further, to recognize what is important, and not simply settle for second best. The timing of the two finally confessing their feelings couldn't be lousier though, it almost looked like winning the lottery was the bigger chance.
I also liked the regulars at the café, the family and friends who helped them find the right path and see what had been in front of their eyes for a long time. Please take a seat on the rollercoaster and ride up and down with Jamie and Leighton, occasionally with a loop, until they finally reach their destination.
Thanks to Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley for receiving an ARC for an honest review.
August 15, 2024
Oh, I have thoughts. Stay tuned…
---
Update: Here are those thoughts...
NOTE: There will be some minor spoilers towards the end of the this review. I will mark the paragraphs so you can skip them if you want, but I don’t want to add spoiler tags to this post.
Melissa Brayden’s books and I have had some ups and downs over the years. Lately they’ve been mostly downs, as Brayden seems to me to be happy simply writing it in, churning out the same story over and over again. My hopes for You Had Me at Merlot weren’t high, and that was probably a good thing because it’s probably my favourite Brayden romance in years! Jamie and Leighton have real chemistry and I love how their relationship develops. That’s the good news. Unfortunately, it failed for me in other areas.
Okay, I admit I enjoy Easter eggs and I’ve had a lot of fun with the fact that Brayden’s 24 novels (and counting) all take place in the same universe. I actually keep track of them all on a separate spreadsheet. But it was out of control in this novel. I counted references to 9 of her other books. And there were a characters from past books that make appearances in this book. This isn’t unusual for Brayden; it’s happened before, but outside of a series, I don’t think past characters have had such big impacts on the story? This may work for fans of Brayden, and I usually love seeing glimpses of other characters, hoping they’re still blissfully in their happily ever afters, but You Had Me at Merlot broke me. It was too much. And it took me out of the story. Not to mention that references to one of the novels contradict each other within the novel. How does that get past Brayden, her pre-readers, and her editor(s)?
I mentioned how much I liked the romance between Jamie and Leighton and that’s true. Miscommunication is their ultimate enemy (big surprise), but I think Brayden gets away with it plot-wise more than I see in other novels. ***MINOR SPOILER AHEAD*** But there’s one instance of blatant cheating that really didn’t sit well with me—the characters abort the situation soon after it begins, but given the emotional cheating happening all over the story, it was especially disappointing. And not something I can really condone. And if the protagonists would actually communicate, it all could have been avoided.
***MINOR SPOILER AHEAD***The other thing that really bothers in romances but really irked me here is that when we finally get the moment of reconciliation, well, it doesn’t fully come until the last chapter. That’s way too late for me. But it’s made worse by the fact that 40% of the final chapter is taken up with some make-up sex that I guess is supposed to be sexy and show me the how much their love burns. And, look, I don’t mind sex scenes in my romances, but I do mind them when they get in the way of the romance itself. Given how late Jamie and Leighton come together, it was especially disappointing. Give me romance: expressions of love, lingering glances, sweet kisses, tears of joy. Hit me at an emotional level! Don’t ruin it with a sex scene that detracts from the actual romance. And, you know what? If you’re going to do that, then you need to give me an epilogue, and there was no epilogue.***NO FURTHER SPOILERS***
The prologue was also weird. Jamie's inner movie-trailer-style narration didn't work for me. Thankfully this goes away. Mostly. It does reappear and it was always jarring/odd when it did.
TL;DR: I put this novel down with conflicted feelings. Jamie and Leighton are a great pairing and I enjoyed getting to know them—one of my favourite romances from Brayden in years. But then she had to go ruin it by trying to be too cute with her Easter eggs and other reasons I found I couldn’t ignore. Brayden super fans will probably enjoy it, but if this is your first Brayden, then go with one of her early novels.
I think I’m going to settle on 3 stars with this. And that feels too high, but I don’t think 2 stars is fair. So it’s a reluctant 3 stars for me.
Some notes because this is Brayden and I have data:
- One of the main characters has brown eyes after 3 books in a row without.
- There was some diversity in this, though barely. Jamie is half Arab, and another prominent character is black. Oh and a one-scene real estate agent who is latino. That’s a lot for a Brayden novel—even one set in NYC.
- I am happy to report that I did not spot the word “sassy” or “saucy” in this novel, though “luminous eyes” came up twice.
- We remain in the land of femmes and only femmes. Brayden, write an androgynous or butch lesbian, I dare you!
---
Update: Here are those thoughts...
NOTE: There will be some minor spoilers towards the end of the this review. I will mark the paragraphs so you can skip them if you want, but I don’t want to add spoiler tags to this post.
Melissa Brayden’s books and I have had some ups and downs over the years. Lately they’ve been mostly downs, as Brayden seems to me to be happy simply writing it in, churning out the same story over and over again. My hopes for You Had Me at Merlot weren’t high, and that was probably a good thing because it’s probably my favourite Brayden romance in years! Jamie and Leighton have real chemistry and I love how their relationship develops. That’s the good news. Unfortunately, it failed for me in other areas.
Okay, I admit I enjoy Easter eggs and I’ve had a lot of fun with the fact that Brayden’s 24 novels (and counting) all take place in the same universe. I actually keep track of them all on a separate spreadsheet. But it was out of control in this novel. I counted references to 9 of her other books. And there were a characters from past books that make appearances in this book. This isn’t unusual for Brayden; it’s happened before, but outside of a series, I don’t think past characters have had such big impacts on the story? This may work for fans of Brayden, and I usually love seeing glimpses of other characters, hoping they’re still blissfully in their happily ever afters, but You Had Me at Merlot broke me. It was too much. And it took me out of the story. Not to mention that references to one of the novels contradict each other within the novel. How does that get past Brayden, her pre-readers, and her editor(s)?
I mentioned how much I liked the romance between Jamie and Leighton and that’s true. Miscommunication is their ultimate enemy (big surprise), but I think Brayden gets away with it plot-wise more than I see in other novels. ***MINOR SPOILER AHEAD*** But there’s one instance of blatant cheating that really didn’t sit well with me—the characters abort the situation soon after it begins, but given the emotional cheating happening all over the story, it was especially disappointing. And not something I can really condone. And if the protagonists would actually communicate, it all could have been avoided.
***MINOR SPOILER AHEAD***The other thing that really bothers in romances but really irked me here is that when we finally get the moment of reconciliation, well, it doesn’t fully come until the last chapter. That’s way too late for me. But it’s made worse by the fact that 40% of the final chapter is taken up with some make-up sex that I guess is supposed to be sexy and show me the how much their love burns. And, look, I don’t mind sex scenes in my romances, but I do mind them when they get in the way of the romance itself. Given how late Jamie and Leighton come together, it was especially disappointing. Give me romance: expressions of love, lingering glances, sweet kisses, tears of joy. Hit me at an emotional level! Don’t ruin it with a sex scene that detracts from the actual romance. And, you know what? If you’re going to do that, then you need to give me an epilogue, and there was no epilogue.***NO FURTHER SPOILERS***
The prologue was also weird. Jamie's inner movie-trailer-style narration didn't work for me. Thankfully this goes away. Mostly. It does reappear and it was always jarring/odd when it did.
TL;DR: I put this novel down with conflicted feelings. Jamie and Leighton are a great pairing and I enjoyed getting to know them—one of my favourite romances from Brayden in years. But then she had to go ruin it by trying to be too cute with her Easter eggs and other reasons I found I couldn’t ignore. Brayden super fans will probably enjoy it, but if this is your first Brayden, then go with one of her early novels.
I think I’m going to settle on 3 stars with this. And that feels too high, but I don’t think 2 stars is fair. So it’s a reluctant 3 stars for me.
Some notes because this is Brayden and I have data:
- One of the main characters has brown eyes after 3 books in a row without.
- There was some diversity in this, though barely. Jamie is half Arab, and another prominent character is black. Oh and a one-scene real estate agent who is latino. That’s a lot for a Brayden novel—even one set in NYC.
- I am happy to report that I did not spot the word “sassy” or “saucy” in this novel, though “luminous eyes” came up twice.
- We remain in the land of femmes and only femmes. Brayden, write an androgynous or butch lesbian, I dare you!
January 28, 2024
This is a story about Jamie Toliver who owns a coffee shop /wine bar in NYC. It a nice little niche shop with plenty of local loyal customers. Then along comes Leighton Murrow a real estate developer who’s company wants to buy up the block that the coffee shop is on to build a department store.
Jamie and Leighton had instant chemistry that blows up in both of their faces. Years later they meet up by accident and become reacquainted.
This book is filled with angst and longing for what could have been. And it hit my melancholy filled brain with longing about unfulfilled dreams. Brayden did a great job on the storyline and the terrific character development.
If you are a Brayden fan this book won’t disappoint you. And she adds several characters we’ve meet in past books to give us a chance to meet up with them and check in on how their lives are going.
ARC revived from Net Galley for an honest and voluntary review.
Jamie and Leighton had instant chemistry that blows up in both of their faces. Years later they meet up by accident and become reacquainted.
This book is filled with angst and longing for what could have been. And it hit my melancholy filled brain with longing about unfulfilled dreams. Brayden did a great job on the storyline and the terrific character development.
If you are a Brayden fan this book won’t disappoint you. And she adds several characters we’ve meet in past books to give us a chance to meet up with them and check in on how their lives are going.
ARC revived from Net Galley for an honest and voluntary review.
April 9, 2024
4.5 stars. Y’all, I loved this book! Talk about an emotional roller coaster! Jamie and Leighton are two flawed yet lovable characters who utterly stole my heart. I felt alllll the feelings while reading this book, and I wanted to throw my phone against the wall a few times because Jamie and Leighton were being Idiot Sapphics ™. But in the end it was all worth it, because of course they get their beautiful gay HEA. 🥰
As a side note, I thoroughly enjoyed how Melissa Brayden sprinkled so many characters from her past books throughout this novel (most notably, Jessica Lennox, my OG SapphFic crush!). I think I counted references to seven of her other books! God, how I sometimes wish I lived in Melissa Brayden’s sapphic wonderland…
As a side note, I thoroughly enjoyed how Melissa Brayden sprinkled so many characters from her past books throughout this novel (most notably, Jessica Lennox, my OG SapphFic crush!). I think I counted references to seven of her other books! God, how I sometimes wish I lived in Melissa Brayden’s sapphic wonderland…
January 23, 2024
Bordeauxnuts" is a tale set in the heart of New York City, and it all revolves around the charismatic Jamie Tolliver, owner of a charming coffee and doughnut spot by day that turns into a wine bar by night. Jamie's world shakes when Leighton Morrow, walks in. From the first encounter, the chemistry between Jamie and Leighton is palpable, sparking a crush that intensifies with each conversation.
But Leighton’s intentions are not all that they seem. As a development coordinator for Carrington's Department Store she is part of a plan that could close Bordeauxnuts doors.
A little bit of a spoiler but this book comes with 2 conflicts, and here���s where we have the first one - quite early in the book- as Brayden is combining the sweetness of romance with the bitter reality of conflicting interests.
I won’t give any spoilers about the second conflict but the twist is significant for both Jamie and Leighton.
Overall, the characters are vibrant and relatable, the story flows quite nicely.
Free ARC via NetGalley.
But Leighton’s intentions are not all that they seem. As a development coordinator for Carrington's Department Store she is part of a plan that could close Bordeauxnuts doors.
A little bit of a spoiler but this book comes with 2 conflicts, and here���s where we have the first one - quite early in the book- as Brayden is combining the sweetness of romance with the bitter reality of conflicting interests.
I won’t give any spoilers about the second conflict but the twist is significant for both Jamie and Leighton.
Overall, the characters are vibrant and relatable, the story flows quite nicely.
Free ARC via NetGalley.
February 9, 2024
I hated the voice in her head thing. The mains didn't get properly back together til like 95% into the book and they both started dating other people mid way through.
I really didn't vibe with this, I think it might have been the writing style, most of the characters fell flat, unfortunately, but I think it was the long chapters that gave me ick the most.
The plot was okay, but again, I want them to be together for a chunk of the book not just as business partners!
I really didn't vibe with this, I think it might have been the writing style, most of the characters fell flat, unfortunately, but I think it was the long chapters that gave me ick the most.
The plot was okay, but again, I want them to be together for a chunk of the book not just as business partners!
February 10, 2024
one of the stars is for brooklyn, my number one forever princess
February 17, 2024
Melissa Brayden has written 25 full-length novels since she started writing in 2011. Her first book, Waiting in the Wings, is still one of my all-time favorites. In recent years, she’s been producing two to three books each year; that’s quite a pace for an author! I’ve been on ARC teams and proofread for authors for several years now and I understand the time it takes to develop quality storytelling. It’s a tedious process. Yet amazingly, Brayden shoulders through the writing regimen like a champ and churns out one best seller after another. (As I write this, You Had Me at Merlot sits at number one in new releases—impressive!)
So, how does she do it? Obviously, she’s very disciplined and structured in her work ethic. However, that doesn’t fully explain the orange best seller banners on Amazon. The answer to that resides in talent, pure and simple. She’s a natural storyteller; it’s probably baked into her genes. On top of that, she understands what readers want in a romance—to experience the thrill and joy of falling in love. So, she gives them heroines that are relatable; women that are smart, capable, and attractive. Then, she lets readers feel the thrill of capturing another woman’s heart, a journey that is filled with desire and consequence. Hearts get bruised and broken along the way, but readers can always count on Brayden to mend them before they turn the last page.
In You Had Me at Merlot, she has quite a bit of mending to do as hearts really get squeezed. Readers feel their pain as the two take a slow and bumpy ride back to a second-chance. The road is long and readers may want to tug their hair out at times, but the journey is worth it. Each step is emotionally charged, complex and heartfelt, making You Had Me at Merlot a compelling read.
Jamie and Leighton are vintage Brayden characters in that they tick all the boxes. They have: 1) distinct and unique personalities 2) interesting, solid relationships with other characters (be prepared to be delighted by several of Brayden’s backlist characters making their way into the script), 3) compelling, dynamic backstories, 4) realistic goals and motivations, and 5) transformative change. More than all of that though, they are extremely likable. They worm their way into readers’ hearts quickly and make a nice home there. These are women that people are drawn to in real life, flaws and all.
Another thing that makes You Had Me at Merlot a standout is the supporting characters. Brayden has always excelled at creating interesting, unique supporting casts, but this one might be the most memorable. Not only does she use them to develop Jamie and Leighton character arcs, they help provide subplots, solidify themes, and even offer comic relief. These characters serve as love interests, friends and family members who create the side dishes for the main course, the romance. In general, they just make the story more interesting; they aren’t just background chatter. They are fully realized individuals with their own personalities, dovetailing seamlessly into the plot and not overshadowing it. The story is richer because of them, making it a more dynamic read in the end.
Final thoughts…
You Had Me at Merlot is filled with fun, flirty banter and cute moments. Beware: this is a journey, though. It takes a minute for the girl to get the girl. However, that’s what I appreciated about it; it gave Jamie and Leighton time to fully develop, paving the road for a more believable romance in the end. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys honest, vulnerably told, second-chance romances. It’s absolutely worth the read.
Strengths…
Engaging storyline
Enjoyable, well-crafted narrative
Lovely, well-developed characters
Fantastic secondary characters
Cleverly planted “Easter Eggs”
Heartfelt and emotionally sincere dialogue
4.5 stars
So, how does she do it? Obviously, she’s very disciplined and structured in her work ethic. However, that doesn’t fully explain the orange best seller banners on Amazon. The answer to that resides in talent, pure and simple. She’s a natural storyteller; it’s probably baked into her genes. On top of that, she understands what readers want in a romance—to experience the thrill and joy of falling in love. So, she gives them heroines that are relatable; women that are smart, capable, and attractive. Then, she lets readers feel the thrill of capturing another woman’s heart, a journey that is filled with desire and consequence. Hearts get bruised and broken along the way, but readers can always count on Brayden to mend them before they turn the last page.
In You Had Me at Merlot, she has quite a bit of mending to do as hearts really get squeezed. Readers feel their pain as the two take a slow and bumpy ride back to a second-chance. The road is long and readers may want to tug their hair out at times, but the journey is worth it. Each step is emotionally charged, complex and heartfelt, making You Had Me at Merlot a compelling read.
Jamie and Leighton are vintage Brayden characters in that they tick all the boxes. They have: 1) distinct and unique personalities 2) interesting, solid relationships with other characters (be prepared to be delighted by several of Brayden’s backlist characters making their way into the script), 3) compelling, dynamic backstories, 4) realistic goals and motivations, and 5) transformative change. More than all of that though, they are extremely likable. They worm their way into readers’ hearts quickly and make a nice home there. These are women that people are drawn to in real life, flaws and all.
Another thing that makes You Had Me at Merlot a standout is the supporting characters. Brayden has always excelled at creating interesting, unique supporting casts, but this one might be the most memorable. Not only does she use them to develop Jamie and Leighton character arcs, they help provide subplots, solidify themes, and even offer comic relief. These characters serve as love interests, friends and family members who create the side dishes for the main course, the romance. In general, they just make the story more interesting; they aren’t just background chatter. They are fully realized individuals with their own personalities, dovetailing seamlessly into the plot and not overshadowing it. The story is richer because of them, making it a more dynamic read in the end.
Final thoughts…
You Had Me at Merlot is filled with fun, flirty banter and cute moments. Beware: this is a journey, though. It takes a minute for the girl to get the girl. However, that’s what I appreciated about it; it gave Jamie and Leighton time to fully develop, paving the road for a more believable romance in the end. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys honest, vulnerably told, second-chance romances. It’s absolutely worth the read.
Strengths…
Engaging storyline
Enjoyable, well-crafted narrative
Lovely, well-developed characters
Fantastic secondary characters
Cleverly planted “Easter Eggs”
Heartfelt and emotionally sincere dialogue
4.5 stars
February 8, 2024
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Jamie is proud of what she accomplish with her coffee and wine bar Bordeauxnuts where she has fun nicknaming customers. Leighton is customer who is task with wether she can convince the owner into selling despite the fact she loves Bordeauxnuts what she didn’t expect was to have an attraction to the owner Jamie. Jamie and Leighton gets closer but when Jamie learns who Leighton work for she hurt and breaks it’s off years later they run into each other but Jamie isn’t ready to forgive which annoy me because Leighton has apologized but as they work together they get closer but Jamie doesn’t want to start anything so Leighton moves on but will Jamie realize ms what stating in her face before it’s too late. I enjoy this read even though Jamie annoy me I like seeing characters from different books from the author who help Leighton and Jamie along the way.
Jamie is proud of what she accomplish with her coffee and wine bar Bordeauxnuts where she has fun nicknaming customers. Leighton is customer who is task with wether she can convince the owner into selling despite the fact she loves Bordeauxnuts what she didn’t expect was to have an attraction to the owner Jamie. Jamie and Leighton gets closer but when Jamie learns who Leighton work for she hurt and breaks it’s off years later they run into each other but Jamie isn’t ready to forgive which annoy me because Leighton has apologized but as they work together they get closer but Jamie doesn’t want to start anything so Leighton moves on but will Jamie realize ms what stating in her face before it’s too late. I enjoy this read even though Jamie annoy me I like seeing characters from different books from the author who help Leighton and Jamie along the way.
March 12, 2024
Melissa Brayden never takes the easy way out! I adored the complexity of Jamie and Leighton's relationship in You Had Me at Merlot. In addition to the magnificent chemistry between the women, the humor and clever banter I expect from Brayden is at 100%.
What a marvelous journey these two incredible women make over the course of the story. Not just in their dealings with each other, but in their personal lives as well. Friends, family, careers... it's just marvelous. Plus there are tons of wonderful cameos which fans of Melissa Brayden will enjoy.
From the sparking hot instant attraction, as secrets are revealed and they become enemies, and finally as they work past everything and they gradually become friends. Through it all these two ladies discover so much about themselves! What an incrediblly really lovely story.
(P.S. Don't worry Jamie, I also go to Coney Island solely for the Nathan's fries.)
an arc of You Had Me at Merlot was provided by Bold Strokes Books, via NetGalley, for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
What a marvelous journey these two incredible women make over the course of the story. Not just in their dealings with each other, but in their personal lives as well. Friends, family, careers... it's just marvelous. Plus there are tons of wonderful cameos which fans of Melissa Brayden will enjoy.
From the sparking hot instant attraction, as secrets are revealed and they become enemies, and finally as they work past everything and they gradually become friends. Through it all these two ladies discover so much about themselves! What an incrediblly really lovely story.
(P.S. Don't worry Jamie, I also go to Coney Island solely for the Nathan's fries.)
an arc of You Had Me at Merlot was provided by Bold Strokes Books, via NetGalley, for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
May 24, 2024
4/10
at the beginning i was really excited and liked how the story was going
then i wasn't really interested for a large part of it
towards the end i didn't mind it and thought it was an okay story
maybe it was about my mood this time but i did enjoy other books by brayden more
at the beginning i was really excited and liked how the story was going
then i wasn't really interested for a large part of it
towards the end i didn't mind it and thought it was an okay story
maybe it was about my mood this time but i did enjoy other books by brayden more
January 30, 2024
Loved the title. The prologue felt like vintage Brayden, amusing, light frothy and set the scene both in character and location.
The barrier is substantial to the mains being together but only one of the mains knows that. Then they both know. One thing I loved about this book is that it was totally believable that the barrier remained a barrier. I felt the sense of devastation one main couldn’t get over. I also felt the chemistry and saw what they couldn’t see..
I was totally carried along by this book. Brayden does the best dialogue, it’s actually quite exhausting because it is so “on” all the time. (Not a complaint).
Read with a smile on my face and a fair bit of tension towards the end!
The barrier is substantial to the mains being together but only one of the mains knows that. Then they both know. One thing I loved about this book is that it was totally believable that the barrier remained a barrier. I felt the sense of devastation one main couldn’t get over. I also felt the chemistry and saw what they couldn’t see..
I was totally carried along by this book. Brayden does the best dialogue, it’s actually quite exhausting because it is so “on” all the time. (Not a complaint).
Read with a smile on my face and a fair bit of tension towards the end!
November 2, 2024
Too bad my favorite author Melissa Brayden is losing her mojo.
I understand this is hard. Being a full-time Sapphic author means you will have to publish at least 2 books every year to generate enough income to support your living expenses, and she chose to settle for quantity instead of quality.
Don't get me wrong I'm okay with the same formula. I mean it's romance novel so what you can do about it? It's either second chance or enemy / friend becomes lover and I totally get that. But this time? Okay writing with boring plots.
Complete waste of time.
I understand this is hard. Being a full-time Sapphic author means you will have to publish at least 2 books every year to generate enough income to support your living expenses, and she chose to settle for quantity instead of quality.
Don't get me wrong I'm okay with the same formula. I mean it's romance novel so what you can do about it? It's either second chance or enemy / friend becomes lover and I totally get that. But this time? Okay writing with boring plots.
Complete waste of time.
February 2, 2024
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this entertaining book
my second book by this author and i can honestly say it wont be the last....
jamie tolliver has the world at her fingertips, her business Bordeauxnuts is going very well, its a coffee shop by day but by night its wine bar and the two mix very well
but Leighton Morrow is about to enter jamies life and upend it.... sparks fly for jamie, and leighton, but leighton has a job to do.... scouting out the area for a new department store and nothing gets in the way of that
but this book is so much more and what a rollercoaster of a ride it is... thoroughly enjoyed it and cant wait to read more books from this author
my second book by this author and i can honestly say it wont be the last....
jamie tolliver has the world at her fingertips, her business Bordeauxnuts is going very well, its a coffee shop by day but by night its wine bar and the two mix very well
but Leighton Morrow is about to enter jamies life and upend it.... sparks fly for jamie, and leighton, but leighton has a job to do.... scouting out the area for a new department store and nothing gets in the way of that
but this book is so much more and what a rollercoaster of a ride it is... thoroughly enjoyed it and cant wait to read more books from this author
February 17, 2024
Jamie owns a cafe/wine bar called Bordeauxnuts. Her customers love her and the business. When in walks a gorgeous woman, Leighton, that Jamie calls Bambi's mother because of her large beautiful brown eyes and gorgeous long lashes. Unbeknown to Jamie, Leighton works as the development coordinator for Carrington's Department store. And they're looking at Jamie's blockto put their new store. But Leighton doesn't tell Jamie before or after their relationship develops.
This is a beautiful love story. Definitely worthy of 5 stars!
This is a beautiful love story. Definitely worthy of 5 stars!
September 19, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
I didn't like this book at all. I felt like this was full of cliche's. I didn't like any of the characters, which means it took a long time for me to get through the book. I was disappointed because I thought It would be a 4 star for me.
I didn't like this book at all. I felt like this was full of cliche's. I didn't like any of the characters, which means it took a long time for me to get through the book. I was disappointed because I thought It would be a 4 star for me.
January 31, 2024
*4.5 this was really good! the first half wasn't my favorite, i thought that it moved too fast and the pace of their relationship was almost unbelievable but the book completely redeemed itself with the time jump and the second half of the book as a whole. it had the perfect amount of angst and the slow burn was great, and i genuinely really enjoyed the characters and their individual stories as well.
would definitely recommend picking this one up!
thank you to bold strokes books and netgalley for this advanced readers copy.
would definitely recommend picking this one up!
thank you to bold strokes books and netgalley for this advanced readers copy.
December 21, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up
To start off, I was really happy to find out that this book deviated from the typical plot pacing of Brayden’s usual formula. That setup has gotten a little repetitive so this was a breath of fresh air to have things go in a different order. That is, it WAS refreshing… up until around the 85% mark. Then we ran into a whole new problem with the pacing.
Now before I get into my main thoughts, I wanted to first state that I absolutely loved the two main characters and they had amazing chemistry. The setup for this book was great, the setting was fun, there were some fun side characters, etc. I also really appreciated that Brayden dialed it back a little bit with the goofy banter in this book. In some of her others, everyone’s personalities blended into one big quirky mess and it made things less enjoyable. That didn’t happen here and I found all the characters to be unique, realistic, and lovely. For most of this book, I thought it would for sure be a 5 star read, but, alas, I ended up having a few issues.
First, I do think that the 3 year time gap was a little excessive and that Jamie overreacted to the conflict that happened near the beginning of the book. I love a good slow-burn though so I was willing to deal with that. However, the whole will-they-won’t-they thing got really old after the 85% mark. Without spoiling anything, the whole Helen plot was taken way too far and lasted for way too long. It ended up just getting grating to read about and it really pulled me away from the story. This also contributed to the ending being super rushed and crammed together. It felt super unsatisfying.
I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again. When you make readers sit through a slow-burn, you HAVE to give them some payoff at the end. Why would I want to spend hours of my life reading about two people pining after each other if I never get the reward of actually seeing them together? There was so much chemistry between the two main characters. I waited the whole book to see it put into something real and was let down when I got hardly a crumb of what I waited for.
It’s especially disappointing because it’s been a while since I’ve felt this invested in two of Brayden’s characters getting together. This easily could have been one of my favorite books from this author if that last 15% of the book had been handled differently. I just wish authors in this genre would put more effort into giving a full and satisfying ending.
To start off, I was really happy to find out that this book deviated from the typical plot pacing of Brayden’s usual formula. That setup has gotten a little repetitive so this was a breath of fresh air to have things go in a different order. That is, it WAS refreshing… up until around the 85% mark. Then we ran into a whole new problem with the pacing.
Now before I get into my main thoughts, I wanted to first state that I absolutely loved the two main characters and they had amazing chemistry. The setup for this book was great, the setting was fun, there were some fun side characters, etc. I also really appreciated that Brayden dialed it back a little bit with the goofy banter in this book. In some of her others, everyone’s personalities blended into one big quirky mess and it made things less enjoyable. That didn’t happen here and I found all the characters to be unique, realistic, and lovely. For most of this book, I thought it would for sure be a 5 star read, but, alas, I ended up having a few issues.
First, I do think that the 3 year time gap was a little excessive and that Jamie overreacted to the conflict that happened near the beginning of the book. I love a good slow-burn though so I was willing to deal with that. However, the whole will-they-won’t-they thing got really old after the 85% mark. Without spoiling anything, the whole Helen plot was taken way too far and lasted for way too long. It ended up just getting grating to read about and it really pulled me away from the story. This also contributed to the ending being super rushed and crammed together. It felt super unsatisfying.
I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again. When you make readers sit through a slow-burn, you HAVE to give them some payoff at the end. Why would I want to spend hours of my life reading about two people pining after each other if I never get the reward of actually seeing them together? There was so much chemistry between the two main characters. I waited the whole book to see it put into something real and was let down when I got hardly a crumb of what I waited for.
It’s especially disappointing because it’s been a while since I’ve felt this invested in two of Brayden’s characters getting together. This easily could have been one of my favorite books from this author if that last 15% of the book had been handled differently. I just wish authors in this genre would put more effort into giving a full and satisfying ending.
February 8, 2024
This is my first Melissa Brayden book and I really enjoyed her writing style! She has been on my TBR for awhile and I definitely want to check out more of her books, especially knowing that some of the side characters in this book are from her other published novels.
The connection between Leighton and Jamie was evident from the start. They had so much chemistry! I truly loved the beginning of this book and watching those initial sparks light up. I was hooked and couldn’t wait to read more of their story. I knew based on the description alone that this book was going to be rife with drama - and I was not wrong! However the drama was not quite what I expected it to be and I love that Brayden took some of these familiar tropes and packaged them up in a different way.
This was a unique book in that it was kind of almost two stories in one. The first 1/4 or so is not quite insta love, but definitely insta connection, but then the story skips ahead 3 years and becomes more of an enemies-to-lovers, second chance, slow burn kind of romance. So you get the opportunity to see both their first and second chance at love which was kind of cool. But it was also very jarring when the time skip happened and it pulled me out of the story and took me a bit to get reinvested.
I really liked Jamie and Leighton as people, but when it came to their relationship I found myself more frustrated with them than anything! Jamie is a big grudge holder and I felt like she reacted way harsher than the situation warranted. And the lack of honesty and communication about feelings was killing me at times! There were moments where I wanted to NOT want them to get back together, but they were just so dang good together that I couldn’t help but root for them even when they were driving me up a wall!
I loved getting to see their connection rebuild and their friendship blossom, but I wish we would have gotten to see them as an actual couple more. I don’t mind a good slow burn romance, but because I’d already gotten to see how good they were together I didn’t like having to wait so long for that spark to reignite. But I did love the way the story wrapped up!
I also truly enjoyed a lot of the side characters, especially the regulars at Bordeauxnuts - Genevieve in particular. That woman was spicy and had some great one liners!
I’ll definitely be checking out more of Brayden’s books, and I think I need to start with Kiss the Girl so I can get to know Jessica Lennox and Brooklyn Campbell!
I received an ARC of this book through NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books. This is my honest and voluntary review.
🏳️🌈Rep: Lesbian and Bi FMCs, queer SCs
📝Tropes/Themes: Femme/Femme, Second Chance, Enemies to Lovers, Slow Burn, Coffee/Wine Bar, New York, Sapphic Romance
⚠️TW/CW: sexual content, alcohol use; minor: cancer, death of a parent, infidelity
The connection between Leighton and Jamie was evident from the start. They had so much chemistry! I truly loved the beginning of this book and watching those initial sparks light up. I was hooked and couldn’t wait to read more of their story. I knew based on the description alone that this book was going to be rife with drama - and I was not wrong! However the drama was not quite what I expected it to be and I love that Brayden took some of these familiar tropes and packaged them up in a different way.
This was a unique book in that it was kind of almost two stories in one. The first 1/4 or so is not quite insta love, but definitely insta connection, but then the story skips ahead 3 years and becomes more of an enemies-to-lovers, second chance, slow burn kind of romance. So you get the opportunity to see both their first and second chance at love which was kind of cool. But it was also very jarring when the time skip happened and it pulled me out of the story and took me a bit to get reinvested.
I really liked Jamie and Leighton as people, but when it came to their relationship I found myself more frustrated with them than anything! Jamie is a big grudge holder and I felt like she reacted way harsher than the situation warranted. And the lack of honesty and communication about feelings was killing me at times! There were moments where I wanted to NOT want them to get back together, but they were just so dang good together that I couldn’t help but root for them even when they were driving me up a wall!
I loved getting to see their connection rebuild and their friendship blossom, but I wish we would have gotten to see them as an actual couple more. I don’t mind a good slow burn romance, but because I’d already gotten to see how good they were together I didn’t like having to wait so long for that spark to reignite. But I did love the way the story wrapped up!
I also truly enjoyed a lot of the side characters, especially the regulars at Bordeauxnuts - Genevieve in particular. That woman was spicy and had some great one liners!
I’ll definitely be checking out more of Brayden’s books, and I think I need to start with Kiss the Girl so I can get to know Jessica Lennox and Brooklyn Campbell!
I received an ARC of this book through NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books. This is my honest and voluntary review.
🏳️🌈Rep: Lesbian and Bi FMCs, queer SCs
📝Tropes/Themes: Femme/Femme, Second Chance, Enemies to Lovers, Slow Burn, Coffee/Wine Bar, New York, Sapphic Romance
⚠️TW/CW: sexual content, alcohol use; minor: cancer, death of a parent, infidelity
March 6, 2024
Sweet and delicious
Jamie owns Bordeauxnuts, an amazing business that combines selling coffee and doughnuts by day and wine by night. One day a new face in her queue of regular customers, suddenly changes Jamie’s world in ways she’d never dreamed of. Leighton is a development coordinator for a department store with plans to demolish Jamie’s business premises, but Leighton is also torn as it has become her new favourite place, and the owner’s not too bad either.
So this was perfect because Bordeauxnuts definitely sounds like the dream and needs to be real (please tell me places like this actually exist). From the moment we meet Jamie, her infectious nature and cuteness instantly endears her to you, so of course Leighton would not be able to resist. At first, Jamie’s reaction to Leighton, and the affect she has on her is just the cutest thing and it had my heart melting. I really wanted them to run into each other again and to develop some sort of friendship and relationship because they were just meant to be.
Melissa has packed this story full of quirky characters who are all unforgettable and contributing in their own way to making the story memorable. Leighton and Jamie’s connection as they grow closer, and then truths are revealed that make it all the more complex for them both. Despite Jamie’s happy-go-lucky nature, she is still hesitant to reveal how she really feels about Leighton after initially dipping her toe in the pool to find it dangerous and upsetting territory. Whereas Leighton took that chance, but is more closed off and in denial about what she really felt.
Such a great romance, with a slow burn romance that made the story super exciting!
Jamie owns Bordeauxnuts, an amazing business that combines selling coffee and doughnuts by day and wine by night. One day a new face in her queue of regular customers, suddenly changes Jamie’s world in ways she’d never dreamed of. Leighton is a development coordinator for a department store with plans to demolish Jamie’s business premises, but Leighton is also torn as it has become her new favourite place, and the owner’s not too bad either.
So this was perfect because Bordeauxnuts definitely sounds like the dream and needs to be real (please tell me places like this actually exist). From the moment we meet Jamie, her infectious nature and cuteness instantly endears her to you, so of course Leighton would not be able to resist. At first, Jamie’s reaction to Leighton, and the affect she has on her is just the cutest thing and it had my heart melting. I really wanted them to run into each other again and to develop some sort of friendship and relationship because they were just meant to be.
Melissa has packed this story full of quirky characters who are all unforgettable and contributing in their own way to making the story memorable. Leighton and Jamie’s connection as they grow closer, and then truths are revealed that make it all the more complex for them both. Despite Jamie’s happy-go-lucky nature, she is still hesitant to reveal how she really feels about Leighton after initially dipping her toe in the pool to find it dangerous and upsetting territory. Whereas Leighton took that chance, but is more closed off and in denial about what she really felt.
Such a great romance, with a slow burn romance that made the story super exciting!
February 12, 2024
You Had Me At Merlot is dual POV that takes place in New York. Jamie Tolliver, the owner of a coffee shop by day, wine bar by night called Bordeauxnuts. Leighton Morrow, a development coordinator for a department store ran by her Cousin called Carringtons. They’re at odds against each other, but can anyone really deny the spark when they find it? Queue Rhianna’s - We Found Love In A Hopeless Place.
I really enjoyed the first quarter of the book, but then the story had a time skip 3 years into the future, which I did struggle with a bit initially. Jamie was both a really wholesome and funny, but also incredibly infuriating character. Her passion for how she built up Bordeauxnuts and the love she put into it is amazing. I wish it existed. Although I didn’t agree with Leighton’s choices, Jamie’s ability to hold a grudge like no one’s business was frustrating. I could see why she was upset and angry, but it did feel like her reaction to what happened was unfair. The length of time she held it and the way she behaved because of it drove me crazy at times because I just wanted her to stop getting in her own way with life and love. It had me dying inside desperate for that HEA. I loved all of the side characters, except for Helen. Helen can talk to the hand. Clarissa, Leo, the coffee gang, Courtney, Jessica, Mindy…they really added so much to the story for me without needing to be too heavy into the plot. I adored Jamie’s Mum. She was so sweet. It does contain easter eggs to Melissa’s previous books that returning readers will love, but for me this was her first book. I’m excited to go back and read about some of the other characters. The story is at times lighthearted, emotional and really sweet. I enjoyed the banter within Bordeauxnuts. The way Melissa has written the story, it does a great job of incorporating lots of different aspects of tropes to build an interesting and emotion-provoking plot and characters with undeniable chemistry and a little bit of spice.
I received a free copy of this book from netgalley and am voluntarily leaving this review
I really enjoyed the first quarter of the book, but then the story had a time skip 3 years into the future, which I did struggle with a bit initially. Jamie was both a really wholesome and funny, but also incredibly infuriating character. Her passion for how she built up Bordeauxnuts and the love she put into it is amazing. I wish it existed. Although I didn’t agree with Leighton’s choices, Jamie’s ability to hold a grudge like no one’s business was frustrating. I could see why she was upset and angry, but it did feel like her reaction to what happened was unfair. The length of time she held it and the way she behaved because of it drove me crazy at times because I just wanted her to stop getting in her own way with life and love. It had me dying inside desperate for that HEA. I loved all of the side characters, except for Helen. Helen can talk to the hand. Clarissa, Leo, the coffee gang, Courtney, Jessica, Mindy…they really added so much to the story for me without needing to be too heavy into the plot. I adored Jamie’s Mum. She was so sweet. It does contain easter eggs to Melissa’s previous books that returning readers will love, but for me this was her first book. I’m excited to go back and read about some of the other characters. The story is at times lighthearted, emotional and really sweet. I enjoyed the banter within Bordeauxnuts. The way Melissa has written the story, it does a great job of incorporating lots of different aspects of tropes to build an interesting and emotion-provoking plot and characters with undeniable chemistry and a little bit of spice.
I received a free copy of this book from netgalley and am voluntarily leaving this review
January 23, 2024
This novel was truly incredible. I keep being surprised by the consistent high quality of Melissa Brayden’s novels (3 now for me) and I should really wake up and adjust my expectations. The silly (but delightful) cover and title did not foreshadow how mature and well done this novel would be. It was realistic in the most satisfying ways and the emotions were real and tangible. As always, Brayden didn’t phone it in with this one; the novel took its time to fully explore the characters and story in a satisfying way without settling for easy feel-good resolutions (and yet the feel-good is still there!). I would recommend this novel to anyone and everyone.
Jamie and Leighton meet by happenstance and it seems like love at first sight, or at least attraction. Unfortunately, Leighton’s job is to scope out Jamie's business for a hostile takeover by her family’s company. The two unexpectedly hit it off and sparks fly, meanwhile Leighton struggles to reveal her secret. Things go predictably wrong and they are left to try and see if they can pick up the pieces.
I have realized that when I truly love a novel my reviews get shorter and/or more general, with this being one of those. There were far too many great things about this novel to start listing them or even trying to pick out favorites. I don’t even have anything negative to say; this novel was simply incredible! It was emotional, sweet, heartwarming, heart-wrenching, exciting, and everything else a novel can be.
P.S.: Brayden also took two tropes that I usually hate in a story ( and ) and found a way to make them actually work in a way that worked for me (I was initially nervous but pleasantly surprised!). This drives it home for me that I need to seek out and read the rest of her catalogue as it was an impressive feat.
P.P.S.: As an aside, the main characters from the two other Brayden novels that I read featured significantly as side characters in this novel (Strawberry Summer and Kiss the Girl). Crossover characters can be hit-or-miss for readers sometimes. In this case it was something I enjoyed given that I knew these characters, however I wonder how it would have played out if I didn’t know them. I can’t comment on if this would have been an issue for people who didn’t know them, but I think they were sufficiently described enough to stand alone in this novel. I am left wondering if there were any other crossover characters; it would be some random luck if the only ones happened to be from the only two other Brayden novels I have read!
Thank you to NetGallery for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Jamie and Leighton meet by happenstance and it seems like love at first sight, or at least attraction. Unfortunately, Leighton’s job is to scope out Jamie's business for a hostile takeover by her family’s company. The two unexpectedly hit it off and sparks fly, meanwhile Leighton struggles to reveal her secret. Things go predictably wrong and they are left to try and see if they can pick up the pieces.
I have realized that when I truly love a novel my reviews get shorter and/or more general, with this being one of those. There were far too many great things about this novel to start listing them or even trying to pick out favorites. I don’t even have anything negative to say; this novel was simply incredible! It was emotional, sweet, heartwarming, heart-wrenching, exciting, and everything else a novel can be.
P.S.: Brayden also took two tropes that I usually hate in a story ( and ) and found a way to make them actually work in a way that worked for me (I was initially nervous but pleasantly surprised!). This drives it home for me that I need to seek out and read the rest of her catalogue as it was an impressive feat.
P.P.S.: As an aside, the main characters from the two other Brayden novels that I read featured significantly as side characters in this novel (Strawberry Summer and Kiss the Girl). Crossover characters can be hit-or-miss for readers sometimes. In this case it was something I enjoyed given that I knew these characters, however I wonder how it would have played out if I didn’t know them. I can’t comment on if this would have been an issue for people who didn’t know them, but I think they were sufficiently described enough to stand alone in this novel. I am left wondering if there were any other crossover characters; it would be some random luck if the only ones happened to be from the only two other Brayden novels I have read!
Thank you to NetGallery for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 14, 2024
*Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book for review, all opinions are my own*
What a pleasant surprise this book was, it was a good reading experience.
I loved watching these characters fall in love, I enjoyed going through all the emotions with them.
It was a super quick and engaging read, I didn't even realize that I read the book practically in 1 day because it was such a good read.
This is a perfect book to read in one day, and a good and mature romance.
I loved it, I highly recommend it!
What a pleasant surprise this book was, it was a good reading experience.
I loved watching these characters fall in love, I enjoyed going through all the emotions with them.
It was a super quick and engaging read, I didn't even realize that I read the book practically in 1 day because it was such a good read.
This is a perfect book to read in one day, and a good and mature romance.
I loved it, I highly recommend it!
February 5, 2024
”Jamie Tolliver had no idea how important today would be,” the voice-over inside her head said in that deep throaty voice of his.
That beginning gave me the best feels straight away for this book haha
Jamie and Leighton - i liked how their story went, it was on damn fire from start then a fallout happens pretty early and we jump 3 yrs forward and start over in that special Brayden way.
Ok so, let me say ive had a bit of a rollercoaster with her books, early ones ive read i dont know how many times - defo a special place in my heart , then a few came along that didnt hit it off with me at all, i absolutly hate that countdown to 80% you just knew shit was about to break loose everytime buuut lately all i feel is love for the books and i loved this one!
Xtra big plus the fallout was so early i could read without the aproaching 80% cringe!
The BIG big super plus tho- you know the easter eggs you discover in her books, where she mentions characters from other books here and there, Ooooboy this book had Chapters filled with cameos , it was freaking christmas morning of easter eggs (idk?)
A feel good book - click that buy button N0W!
That beginning gave me the best feels straight away for this book haha
Jamie and Leighton - i liked how their story went, it was on damn fire from start then a fallout happens pretty early and we jump 3 yrs forward and start over in that special Brayden way.
Ok so, let me say ive had a bit of a rollercoaster with her books, early ones ive read i dont know how many times - defo a special place in my heart , then a few came along that didnt hit it off with me at all, i absolutly hate that countdown to 80% you just knew shit was about to break loose everytime buuut lately all i feel is love for the books and i loved this one!
Xtra big plus the fallout was so early i could read without the aproaching 80% cringe!
The BIG big super plus tho- you know the easter eggs you discover in her books, where she mentions characters from other books here and there, Ooooboy this book had Chapters filled with cameos , it was freaking christmas morning of easter eggs (idk?)
A feel good book - click that buy button N0W!
April 17, 2024
I enjoy slow burns, but it takes until before they both acknowledge their feelings. If anything, there's more page time devoted to . It's hard to have positive feelings about a romantic relationship that barely exists.
February 19, 2024
What a rollercoaster!
- I would like to thank Netgalley for the eARC -
Jamie is the proud owner of a successful bar/doughnut and coffee shop in NYC. When leughton, a beautiful, spirited and kind woman enters the shop, Jamie has an instant crush on her. As they get to know one another, this crush only intensifies. Unfortunately, they're not from the same world. And Leighton has a job to do: take over the block, including demolishing Jamie's shop...
This book was a truly beautiful and addictive second chance romance. I related and loved our two protagonists from the start. I really like opposties attrack, and in this book, it was definitely the case. Both women are very different, but they work really well together and it was a delight to see their relationship evolve. The writing was very addictive and I just couldn't stop reading once I'd started it. The plot was well-paced and intriguing because the author managed to sprinkle just enough suspence and tension in the main romance plot to keep me hooked. I also loved the business owner and different worlds vibes of the story and how it wrapped it all perfectly. All in all, it was a delightful, intense and addictive sapphic romance that had me go through all the emotions possible.
I highly recommend this great sapphic romance!
"Life is fleeting. Don't waste it in people who don't make you light up the second you see them in the distance."
TW: sexually explicit scenes
- I would like to thank Netgalley for the eARC -
Jamie is the proud owner of a successful bar/doughnut and coffee shop in NYC. When leughton, a beautiful, spirited and kind woman enters the shop, Jamie has an instant crush on her. As they get to know one another, this crush only intensifies. Unfortunately, they're not from the same world. And Leighton has a job to do: take over the block, including demolishing Jamie's shop...
This book was a truly beautiful and addictive second chance romance. I related and loved our two protagonists from the start. I really like opposties attrack, and in this book, it was definitely the case. Both women are very different, but they work really well together and it was a delight to see their relationship evolve. The writing was very addictive and I just couldn't stop reading once I'd started it. The plot was well-paced and intriguing because the author managed to sprinkle just enough suspence and tension in the main romance plot to keep me hooked. I also loved the business owner and different worlds vibes of the story and how it wrapped it all perfectly. All in all, it was a delightful, intense and addictive sapphic romance that had me go through all the emotions possible.
I highly recommend this great sapphic romance!
"Life is fleeting. Don't waste it in people who don't make you light up the second you see them in the distance."
TW: sexually explicit scenes
February 8, 2024
Jamie owns a small business, cafe during the day and wine bar at night. It’s a hit with a group of wonderful regulars. Leighton works for a department store, which wants to buy out the area where Jamie’s cafe is located. There is romance, secrets and cheesy inner monologue. The secondary characters really play a nice role in making the cafe seem like the perfect place. Most of all I enjoyed the banter and chemistry between Jamie and Leighton. I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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