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A Case for Discretion
What happens when your carefree spring fling shows up to work as your newest summer intern?
When Gwen Strickland and Etta Monroe agree to a steamy anonymous fling, they make three No names. No details. No feelings.
Gwen’s a prominent Atlanta attorney who wants nothing more than to be the next justice on the Georgia State Supreme Court. Etta is fully focused on getting out of law school unscathed. A relationship is not on the agenda, but somehow, they can’t help totally falling for each other.
Then Gwen discovers Etta has accepted a summer internship at her law firm. Logic and ethics say they should end their relationship. But logic and ethics are no match for their unstoppable attraction. Sneaking about, clandestine dating isn’t a long-term solution, but the promise of a future with Etta means Gwen must risk her biggest goal for a younger woman whose life—and plans—could change.
When Gwen Strickland and Etta Monroe agree to a steamy anonymous fling, they make three No names. No details. No feelings.
Gwen’s a prominent Atlanta attorney who wants nothing more than to be the next justice on the Georgia State Supreme Court. Etta is fully focused on getting out of law school unscathed. A relationship is not on the agenda, but somehow, they can’t help totally falling for each other.
Then Gwen discovers Etta has accepted a summer internship at her law firm. Logic and ethics say they should end their relationship. But logic and ethics are no match for their unstoppable attraction. Sneaking about, clandestine dating isn’t a long-term solution, but the promise of a future with Etta means Gwen must risk her biggest goal for a younger woman whose life—and plans—could change.
217 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 9, 2024
11 people are currently reading
95 people want to read
About the author
Ashley Moore
2 books4 followersAshley Moore is a paralegal living in Charleston, South Carolina, with her dog, Tallulah. She went to college in Georgia, law school in Virginia, and has lived in seven states in the last fifteen years. Her interests include craft cocktails and woodworking.
Librarian note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Librarian note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
March 20, 2024
This has been a story with an age gap between the protagonists, also some power play and quite a bit of the ice queen on Gwen's part. The chances that Gwen, a prestigious attorney and partner at a major Atlanta law firm, will meet, let alone associate with, a woman like Etta, a second-year law student and occasional bartender, are minuscule. But that first time, in which Etta seems to be the salvation of Gwen's stressful day on campus, will be the trigger for a relationship that begins to be casual, sexual and sporadic, but that chance will also transform into a somewhat dangerous adventure for both.
The story does not delve much into the personalities of both women, although it does go deep enough to make their relationship truthful. The events have been expected, but not disappointing, with some pleasant surprises in between. The two of them are honest, they respect each other and they don't play games. I appreciated this.
And I read it in a jiffy, I was hooked and I almost couldn't put it down until I finished it.
Publisher Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for an honest review
The story does not delve much into the personalities of both women, although it does go deep enough to make their relationship truthful. The events have been expected, but not disappointing, with some pleasant surprises in between. The two of them are honest, they respect each other and they don't play games. I appreciated this.
And I read it in a jiffy, I was hooked and I almost couldn't put it down until I finished it.
Publisher Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for an honest review
March 24, 2024
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Gwen is an attorney who doesn’t want anything in her way to becoming next justice for the Georgia state supreme court. When she meets Etta who is trying get through law school unscathed at a bar where she working they hit off and have one night stand that becomes no string attached fling but things get complicated when Etta gets a internship at the law firm where Gwen works and have to work together but can they continue no strings attached when they start feel more then they should. This was overall, a nice, low angst book but I would’ve like to know who knew of them and told.
Gwen is an attorney who doesn’t want anything in her way to becoming next justice for the Georgia state supreme court. When she meets Etta who is trying get through law school unscathed at a bar where she working they hit off and have one night stand that becomes no string attached fling but things get complicated when Etta gets a internship at the law firm where Gwen works and have to work together but can they continue no strings attached when they start feel more then they should. This was overall, a nice, low angst book but I would’ve like to know who knew of them and told.
May 13, 2024
In A Case for Discretion, Gwen, a seasoned attorney, finds unexpected love with Etta, a law student bartending at her university. Their relationship, marked by an initial one-night stand, evolves into a deep and mature connection, navigating age gaps and workplace complexities with open communication. The narrative shines in depicting their balanced dynamic, showcasing personal growth and mutual support.
However, the novel sometimes falters in consistency, particularly in the transition between fade-to-black romantic scenes to sudden intimacy, lacking the build-up that initially characterises their relationship. This disjointed pacing was confusing to follow and I think would've benefitted from a tighter edit.
The story also delves into potential professional repercussions for Gwen, intertwining personal stakes with career ambitions, which adds a layer of tension. The connections between characters, including shared acquaintances, enrich the narrative, providing a backdrop for both conflict and growth. Despite some narrative shortcomings, the book is a sweet exploration of love, professional integrity, and personal discovery within the backdrop of a legal setting.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
However, the novel sometimes falters in consistency, particularly in the transition between fade-to-black romantic scenes to sudden intimacy, lacking the build-up that initially characterises their relationship. This disjointed pacing was confusing to follow and I think would've benefitted from a tighter edit.
The story also delves into potential professional repercussions for Gwen, intertwining personal stakes with career ambitions, which adds a layer of tension. The connections between characters, including shared acquaintances, enrich the narrative, providing a backdrop for both conflict and growth. Despite some narrative shortcomings, the book is a sweet exploration of love, professional integrity, and personal discovery within the backdrop of a legal setting.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
March 25, 2024
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book
Gwen Strickland is a prominent Atlanta attorney not looking for anything but to get through a night with friends.... its on this night out that she meets at a bar etta monroe... and they end up spending the night together, its not something that gwen ever does but its a no strings attached kind of thing.... but a week later it happens again.....
gwen is hoping to become the next justice on the Georgia State Supreme Court and nothing can derail that... so imagine her horror when her fling from the summer walks into her office as one of the summer internship......sexual harrassment in the making
but gwen and etta cant give each other up ... there is so much against them....age and work ethics but when it comes down to feelings they just cant stop seeing each other
when disaster strikes
a compelling read.... that gives a little insight into the whole age gap thing and work place romances....
Gwen Strickland is a prominent Atlanta attorney not looking for anything but to get through a night with friends.... its on this night out that she meets at a bar etta monroe... and they end up spending the night together, its not something that gwen ever does but its a no strings attached kind of thing.... but a week later it happens again.....
gwen is hoping to become the next justice on the Georgia State Supreme Court and nothing can derail that... so imagine her horror when her fling from the summer walks into her office as one of the summer internship......sexual harrassment in the making
but gwen and etta cant give each other up ... there is so much against them....age and work ethics but when it comes down to feelings they just cant stop seeing each other
when disaster strikes
a compelling read.... that gives a little insight into the whole age gap thing and work place romances....
April 13, 2024
A one night to forever, age-gap, workplace romance to absolutely fall in love with!
I received an advance copy from Netgalley for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Gwen is at the top of her game. A successful lawyer with an eye on a seat of the Georgia Supreme Court, she finds herself in a position she always dreamed of. At 45, divorced and with a 19 year old son, she finds herself at a bar in her old college town where she is on the board of trustees for her Alma Mater. Resigned to a night of awful karaoke and even more awful drinks, Gwen is surprised to be served an actual decent martini. When she goes over to the bartender to give her a compliment, Gwen can’t be anything but charmed. So charmed in fact, she does something wholly out of her normal routine, she takes the bartender up on her offer for a hot night in bed. It turns out to be so hot Gwen finds herself craving more than one night with young, irresistible Etta.
Etta is 28 and works hard to become the best lawyer she can be. She works a college job at a bar. While bartending she meets an irresistible older woman. After a very hot night in bed, she can’t believe her luck when Gwen comes looking for her again….and again.
Under pressure from her mother Etta applies for a summer internship with a top notch firm in Atlanta. She knows it’s good experience, but she can’t believe when they actually offer her the job. She’ll spent a summer in Atlanta, the city Gwen also lives in. Etta looks forward to a few weeks of hard work and even harder play. With Gwen that is. One morning she is ushered into the office of one of the partners to deliver a folder. There, behind the desk, sits Gwen. They both know they should stop their relationship immediately, but somehow they can’t seem to stay away.
This story is so delicious! Knowing you shouldn’t but you just can’t help yourself. We probably all have experienced that feeling in one way or another. Ashley Moore writes the dilemma to perfection. The story is told from both Eta’s and Gwen’s perspective and for both of them it’s the same: they can’t help but be drawn toward each other. I love that Gwen is utterly defenseless against Etta’s charm. Nowhere in the story does their relationship seem uneven. That makes the drama that it causes all the more conflicting.
Unbeknownst to them Etta and Gwen share a friend, Grey. They eventually get stuck in the middle because both women come to them for advice. Luckily they can see exactly what is happening between the two and when push comes to shove they are the best friend they could wish for. Etta’s relationship with her best friend Jorge is charming. He is there for her when she needs it most and won’t let her stew. That’s exactly what a friendship should be in my opinion.
A Case For Discretion is a very good one in this genre. Hot lawyers, a lot of spice and feelings that won’t be ignored. If you’re in to all that, then, what are you waiting for?
I received an advance copy from Netgalley for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Gwen is at the top of her game. A successful lawyer with an eye on a seat of the Georgia Supreme Court, she finds herself in a position she always dreamed of. At 45, divorced and with a 19 year old son, she finds herself at a bar in her old college town where she is on the board of trustees for her Alma Mater. Resigned to a night of awful karaoke and even more awful drinks, Gwen is surprised to be served an actual decent martini. When she goes over to the bartender to give her a compliment, Gwen can’t be anything but charmed. So charmed in fact, she does something wholly out of her normal routine, she takes the bartender up on her offer for a hot night in bed. It turns out to be so hot Gwen finds herself craving more than one night with young, irresistible Etta.
Etta is 28 and works hard to become the best lawyer she can be. She works a college job at a bar. While bartending she meets an irresistible older woman. After a very hot night in bed, she can’t believe her luck when Gwen comes looking for her again….and again.
Under pressure from her mother Etta applies for a summer internship with a top notch firm in Atlanta. She knows it’s good experience, but she can’t believe when they actually offer her the job. She’ll spent a summer in Atlanta, the city Gwen also lives in. Etta looks forward to a few weeks of hard work and even harder play. With Gwen that is. One morning she is ushered into the office of one of the partners to deliver a folder. There, behind the desk, sits Gwen. They both know they should stop their relationship immediately, but somehow they can’t seem to stay away.
This story is so delicious! Knowing you shouldn’t but you just can’t help yourself. We probably all have experienced that feeling in one way or another. Ashley Moore writes the dilemma to perfection. The story is told from both Eta’s and Gwen’s perspective and for both of them it’s the same: they can’t help but be drawn toward each other. I love that Gwen is utterly defenseless against Etta’s charm. Nowhere in the story does their relationship seem uneven. That makes the drama that it causes all the more conflicting.
Unbeknownst to them Etta and Gwen share a friend, Grey. They eventually get stuck in the middle because both women come to them for advice. Luckily they can see exactly what is happening between the two and when push comes to shove they are the best friend they could wish for. Etta’s relationship with her best friend Jorge is charming. He is there for her when she needs it most and won’t let her stew. That’s exactly what a friendship should be in my opinion.
A Case For Discretion is a very good one in this genre. Hot lawyers, a lot of spice and feelings that won’t be ignored. If you’re in to all that, then, what are you waiting for?
April 2, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for sending me an ARC. It is much appreciated.
Gwen, an attorney in her 40’s meets Etta, a law student working at her University bar. Their attraction to each other is apparent resulting in a one night stand that progresses as they learn more about one another.
This was a simple, non-toxic age gap romance. Gwen and Etta navigated their relationship with maturity, and communication, even when they faced complications. While said complications were predictable, I really enjoyed how nice their relationship was. Seeing an apprehensive Gwen come out of her shell a bit and then both learn more about one another was enjoyable to read. They balance each other out which is demonstrated throughout.
Unfortunately, this book falls short for me in the ‘discretion’ department. Throughout, there are a few scenes where they are not so discreet about their relationship, i.e. Kissing in the university parking lot, at a cafe. This does not echo the implications made by the title, it would have been far more intriguing if there were more elements of secrecy and risk regarding their situation, it is due to this that I found myself bored more often than not.
Moreover, the fade to black sex scenes and then the jump to scenes where they are in the middle of intercourse made no sense to me. It would be nice to have seen the build up and foreplay as that is what their relationship was built on in the beginning. It read more like a Y/A sometimes.
Overall, sweet and binge worthy, but could be better.
Gwen, an attorney in her 40’s meets Etta, a law student working at her University bar. Their attraction to each other is apparent resulting in a one night stand that progresses as they learn more about one another.
This was a simple, non-toxic age gap romance. Gwen and Etta navigated their relationship with maturity, and communication, even when they faced complications. While said complications were predictable, I really enjoyed how nice their relationship was. Seeing an apprehensive Gwen come out of her shell a bit and then both learn more about one another was enjoyable to read. They balance each other out which is demonstrated throughout.
Unfortunately, this book falls short for me in the ‘discretion’ department. Throughout, there are a few scenes where they are not so discreet about their relationship, i.e. Kissing in the university parking lot, at a cafe. This does not echo the implications made by the title, it would have been far more intriguing if there were more elements of secrecy and risk regarding their situation, it is due to this that I found myself bored more often than not.
Moreover, the fade to black sex scenes and then the jump to scenes where they are in the middle of intercourse made no sense to me. It would be nice to have seen the build up and foreplay as that is what their relationship was built on in the beginning. It read more like a Y/A sometimes.
Overall, sweet and binge worthy, but could be better.
March 21, 2024
A quick read with a multi trope if you like, age gap, ice queen, rich/poor, one night stand to forever and probably a couple more. It was an enjoyable read and it got me so that I read it in one sitting. One can say that it doesn't go into a lot of depth but enough to keep me engaged
Free ARC via NetGalley
Free ARC via NetGalley
April 1, 2024
An age gap romance between successful Atlanta attorney Gwen Strickland and a law student Etta Monroe. Gwen meets and hooks up with bartender Etta with no plans to meet again. But Gwen is drawn back. By happenstance Etta has been hired to work as a summer intern at the firm where Gwen is a partner. They don’t work in the same departments so there is no subordinate or harassment issue but they both know they should end things.
The relationship could cost Gwen her job and a desired appointment to the GA State Supreme Court. I like that they fit quietly together well. It felt an extra coincidence that Gwen’s best friend was also a mentor and someone Etta has worked with as a volunteer. I thought I got only superficial background on both women. Enough to know a little about each and their motives. But no deep backgrounds. For example I wasn’t sure why Etta is an older than average law student. Also I felt it was a happy for now ending as there weren't any future plans beyond the epilogue a few months later. I like lawyer romances and this was a quick read. Also I lived in Cartersville, the law school setting, for a brief time almost 40 years ago. So that was an extra touchpoint for me.
The relationship could cost Gwen her job and a desired appointment to the GA State Supreme Court. I like that they fit quietly together well. It felt an extra coincidence that Gwen’s best friend was also a mentor and someone Etta has worked with as a volunteer. I thought I got only superficial background on both women. Enough to know a little about each and their motives. But no deep backgrounds. For example I wasn’t sure why Etta is an older than average law student. Also I felt it was a happy for now ending as there weren't any future plans beyond the epilogue a few months later. I like lawyer romances and this was a quick read. Also I lived in Cartersville, the law school setting, for a brief time almost 40 years ago. So that was an extra touchpoint for me.
May 16, 2024
A Case for Discretion
My first book by Ashley Moore was enjoyable. The banter was well written. The chemistry continued to grow. I felt that the angst was to be expected based on the situation. It was well resolved.
The secondary characters were fun and supportive. Both MCs had shown growth. I will continue to follow this author.
My first book by Ashley Moore was enjoyable. The banter was well written. The chemistry continued to grow. I felt that the angst was to be expected based on the situation. It was well resolved.
The secondary characters were fun and supportive. Both MCs had shown growth. I will continue to follow this author.
March 21, 2024
This was an enjoyable novel. I tore through the pages of this one and it had a lot of great moments in it, however overall, I found it lacked impact and won’t be finding a place on my favorites shelf. It was good, but there are enough better novels out there that I don’t think I would recommend it.
I specifically liked the beginning section of this novel. I loved how the characters got to spend a decent chunk of time (and the text) together getting established before they started working together. This made what followed a lot more believable and allowed the reader to take the “relationship” more seriously. I also loved how they were interconnected in other ways (such as through a mutual friend) which was a great set-up for hijinks and great plot elements later in the novel. The nature of their relationship also made it believable that they wouldn’t know that they were going to be working together.
Unfortunately for the great set-up, I found the novel somewhat lacking down the line. Everything that happened was a little bit too easy (or rushed? Convenient? Light on detail?), straightforward, and fell a little flat. For example, I was particularly looking forward to the scene where they discovered that they worked together, however when it happened it was incredibly anticlimactic and underwhelming. The main plotline was supposed to be the conflict the characters experienced regarding their relationship being “forbidden” and how they grapple with the situation, but they barely batted an eye, and it was hardly an issue (until it was). The degree to which the characters were unconcerned with the situation not only seemed unrealistic, but it was a let down and a missed opportunity. Once the conflict happened, the novel began to flow on autopilot and it was rather disappointing.
To anyone who reads a lot and is looking for more books, this novel was perfectly fine, and you can add it to the list. If you’re the type who has limited slots on your reading list, then I don’t think I would recommend this one to make the cut. There wasn’t anything wrong with it, and there were some genuinely great moments, but it didn’t have that “wow factor” that many other novels do.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I specifically liked the beginning section of this novel. I loved how the characters got to spend a decent chunk of time (and the text) together getting established before they started working together. This made what followed a lot more believable and allowed the reader to take the “relationship” more seriously. I also loved how they were interconnected in other ways (such as through a mutual friend) which was a great set-up for hijinks and great plot elements later in the novel. The nature of their relationship also made it believable that they wouldn’t know that they were going to be working together.
Unfortunately for the great set-up, I found the novel somewhat lacking down the line. Everything that happened was a little bit too easy (or rushed? Convenient? Light on detail?), straightforward, and fell a little flat. For example, I was particularly looking forward to the scene where they discovered that they worked together, however when it happened it was incredibly anticlimactic and underwhelming. The main plotline was supposed to be the conflict the characters experienced regarding their relationship being “forbidden” and how they grapple with the situation, but they barely batted an eye, and it was hardly an issue (until it was). The degree to which the characters were unconcerned with the situation not only seemed unrealistic, but it was a let down and a missed opportunity. Once the conflict happened, the novel began to flow on autopilot and it was rather disappointing.
To anyone who reads a lot and is looking for more books, this novel was perfectly fine, and you can add it to the list. If you’re the type who has limited slots on your reading list, then I don’t think I would recommend this one to make the cut. There wasn’t anything wrong with it, and there were some genuinely great moments, but it didn’t have that “wow factor” that many other novels do.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 8, 2024
On one hand, I appreciate that it was an age-gap romance with an actual age gap (the leads have to be more than 10 years apart and at different life stages for it to count, don't @ me). The first half of the novel was pretty good. I quite liked the meet-cute, and the potential conflict that was set up with Gwen's teenage son. As far as the leads went, both Etta and Gwen were reasonably likeable, and if I knew them in person, I'd be happy that they found each other.
However, the second half was a massive letdown for me. None of the conflict that was hinted at eventuated, making it feel like a plot point had been cut out of the novel. Also, the whole Georgia State Supreme Court arc was utterly unbelievable. I'm not an expert on American politics, far from it, but I sincerely doubt that an openly queer judge could be appointed after without there being a massive conservative upcry about "groomers" and the like. I of course understand that romance novels are a form of escapism and tend to portray an idealistic world, but when a book is so explicitly referencing real-world institutions, it's hard to put aside my prior expectations regarding them. But maybe that's just me.
Also, another thing that may have just been my perspective.. but I was kinda annoyed at how the queer representation was executed. In the scene with the gender marker change clinic, the description of Etta's client as "the black trans woman" was just so cringeworthy to me. I can't speak on being black, but I can speak about being a trans woman of (another) colour, and to me the bluntness of the description made the character feel like a token effort at inclusion. It's all the more baffling when the context of the clinic would have pretty obviously inferred that the character was trans.
On that note - has anyone else noticed this new archetype of a type-A, constantly meddling player of a non-binary side character? Because this novel sure has one. Overall I was pretty disappointed with this read unfortunately.
However, the second half was a massive letdown for me. None of the conflict that was hinted at eventuated, making it feel like a plot point had been cut out of the novel. Also, the whole Georgia State Supreme Court arc was utterly unbelievable. I'm not an expert on American politics, far from it, but I sincerely doubt that an openly queer judge could be appointed after without there being a massive conservative upcry about "groomers" and the like. I of course understand that romance novels are a form of escapism and tend to portray an idealistic world, but when a book is so explicitly referencing real-world institutions, it's hard to put aside my prior expectations regarding them. But maybe that's just me.
Also, another thing that may have just been my perspective.. but I was kinda annoyed at how the queer representation was executed. In the scene with the gender marker change clinic, the description of Etta's client as "the black trans woman" was just so cringeworthy to me. I can't speak on being black, but I can speak about being a trans woman of (another) colour, and to me the bluntness of the description made the character feel like a token effort at inclusion. It's all the more baffling when the context of the clinic would have pretty obviously inferred that the character was trans.
On that note - has anyone else noticed this new archetype of a type-A, constantly meddling player of a non-binary side character? Because this novel sure has one. Overall I was pretty disappointed with this read unfortunately.
April 8, 2024
Gwen Strickland is the head of the appellate section of her law firm and is acknowledged to be one of the best appellate lawyers in the state, if not the country. When she reluctantly agrees to have drinks with colleagues and a client, she knows she’ll have one drink and disappear. But she can’t even last through the one drink and heads for the bar. The bartender, Etta Monroe, makes the best martini Gwen has had. Then, before she can talk herself out of it, Gwen agrees to go home with the young bartender. She has no idea how that chance encounter will upend her life.
Moore has written an outstanding age-gap romance that once started is very hard to put down. It may end up on your short-list of the best lesbian romances - ever.
Both of the author’s main characters are well-drawn, sympathetic, and likable. The pacing is impeccable from start to finish without sagging to accommodate tons of unnecessary angst. There is angst to be sure, but it is subtle and doesn’t go on for three-quarters of the book. After the one-night stand, the feelings between the two women become much more than can be contained in a single night. But then Gwen chooses the opportunity to be appointed to the Georgia State Supreme Court over being with Etta.
The author doesn’t dwell on the age-gap issue, but it is there in Gwen’s head nevertheless. A less talented author would have devolved into a several-chapter angst fest, but Moore acknowledges Gwen’s concerns and moves the story on.
If you love a well-written romance between two strong women that has some twists and turns in the storyline, this may very well be the book for you.
My thanks to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an eARC.
Moore has written an outstanding age-gap romance that once started is very hard to put down. It may end up on your short-list of the best lesbian romances - ever.
Both of the author’s main characters are well-drawn, sympathetic, and likable. The pacing is impeccable from start to finish without sagging to accommodate tons of unnecessary angst. There is angst to be sure, but it is subtle and doesn’t go on for three-quarters of the book. After the one-night stand, the feelings between the two women become much more than can be contained in a single night. But then Gwen chooses the opportunity to be appointed to the Georgia State Supreme Court over being with Etta.
The author doesn’t dwell on the age-gap issue, but it is there in Gwen’s head nevertheless. A less talented author would have devolved into a several-chapter angst fest, but Moore acknowledges Gwen’s concerns and moves the story on.
If you love a well-written romance between two strong women that has some twists and turns in the storyline, this may very well be the book for you.
My thanks to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an eARC.
March 22, 2024
3.5 stars.
what happens when your carefree two-night stand shows up to work as your firm's newest intern?
Gwen Strickland and Etta Monroe end up in a fling, they make three rules - no names, no details, & no feelings.
Gwen is a prominent Atlanta attorney who wants nothing more than to be the next justice for the Georgia State Supreme Court. While, Etta is fully focused on getting out of law school unscathed. Then Gwen discovers Etta accepted a summer internship at her law firm.
This was a very, easy workplace romance to devour all in one sitting. I did find the blurb a bit off, pertaining to them seemingly knowing nothing about one another until they run into one another at work, which isn't the case. I can't remember how much Gwen knew in the in-between, but it was always more than Etta. Just know, there's bit of power imbalanced in that respective as well as Gwen being a senior partner.
We don't learn too much about the characters individually, just random family information dropped from Etta without further exploration and there's a scene where Etta accidently meets Gwen's son and then it's not discussed again. All of it is focused on the clandestine relationship which, is fine if you know that's what you're signing up for.
It's a fun, short sexy story that can help distract you for an hour without any commitment.
Thank you to Netgalley & Bold Strokes Books for this eARC, in exchange for my honest review.
what happens when your carefree two-night stand shows up to work as your firm's newest intern?
Gwen Strickland and Etta Monroe end up in a fling, they make three rules - no names, no details, & no feelings.
Gwen is a prominent Atlanta attorney who wants nothing more than to be the next justice for the Georgia State Supreme Court. While, Etta is fully focused on getting out of law school unscathed. Then Gwen discovers Etta accepted a summer internship at her law firm.
This was a very, easy workplace romance to devour all in one sitting. I did find the blurb a bit off, pertaining to them seemingly knowing nothing about one another until they run into one another at work, which isn't the case. I can't remember how much Gwen knew in the in-between, but it was always more than Etta. Just know, there's bit of power imbalanced in that respective as well as Gwen being a senior partner.
We don't learn too much about the characters individually, just random family information dropped from Etta without further exploration and there's a scene where Etta accidently meets Gwen's son and then it's not discussed again. All of it is focused on the clandestine relationship which, is fine if you know that's what you're signing up for.
It's a fun, short sexy story that can help distract you for an hour without any commitment.
Thank you to Netgalley & Bold Strokes Books for this eARC, in exchange for my honest review.
March 24, 2024
Etta Monroe was in her third year studying law. Keeping herself going by working as a bartender, her scholarships just didn’t meet all her needs. With her family consisting of just her and her mother and her mother was constantly nagging her to do better, get herself a good job, hopefully working for one of the law firms in Atlanta but Etta wasn’t on board with that. She wanted to use her degree helping others with what legal issues they might have. One night, tending bar, a beautiful woman she’d never seen before. After some flirting she took the woman home with her for a welcomed one night stand.
Gwen Strickland worked at one of the best law firms in Atlanta but on this day she was visiting her son who was a student at the same college where Etta attended. Divorced, she wasn’t looking for a relationship but the bartender was awfully cute. A one night stand was just what she needed. But Gwen couldn’t get Etta out of her brain so after a two week period she found herself right back looking for another night with Etta.
Did I mention there are sixteen years between them? But here they are with Etta working a summer job at Gwen’s firm. No one can know about their relationship, it could mean the end of Gwen’s career. Problem is they can’t stay away from each other. Very, very nice read.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books
Gwen Strickland worked at one of the best law firms in Atlanta but on this day she was visiting her son who was a student at the same college where Etta attended. Divorced, she wasn’t looking for a relationship but the bartender was awfully cute. A one night stand was just what she needed. But Gwen couldn’t get Etta out of her brain so after a two week period she found herself right back looking for another night with Etta.
Did I mention there are sixteen years between them? But here they are with Etta working a summer job at Gwen’s firm. No one can know about their relationship, it could mean the end of Gwen’s career. Problem is they can’t stay away from each other. Very, very nice read.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books
March 21, 2024
This was my first book by this author and I'm not sure what to think. I enjoyed the premise, but it very much reminded me of View from the Top by Morgan Adams with very similar setting, age gap and storyline. From the blurb, it seems like they don't know anything about each other, not even names, but within the first two chapters, they knew each other's names and occupations so the blurb was a little misleading.
Etta Monroe is in law school and gets an summer internship at a great firm in Atlanta which will help make ends meet. She works part time as a bartender and that's where she meets Gwen. She didn't expect a one night stand to be anything more than that.
Gwen Strickland is a prominent attorney gunning to be the next justice on the Georgia State Supreme court and doesn't want anything to get in the way of her career until she meets Etta. Their one night stand turns into more nights until Gwen learns Etta is a intern at her law firm. Logic and ethics should be the number one priority but its not when it comes to the heart.
It was enjoyable, but also predictable. One thing I would have liked to know was who reported them and how they got caught, but overall, a nice, low angst book.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Etta Monroe is in law school and gets an summer internship at a great firm in Atlanta which will help make ends meet. She works part time as a bartender and that's where she meets Gwen. She didn't expect a one night stand to be anything more than that.
Gwen Strickland is a prominent attorney gunning to be the next justice on the Georgia State Supreme court and doesn't want anything to get in the way of her career until she meets Etta. Their one night stand turns into more nights until Gwen learns Etta is a intern at her law firm. Logic and ethics should be the number one priority but its not when it comes to the heart.
It was enjoyable, but also predictable. One thing I would have liked to know was who reported them and how they got caught, but overall, a nice, low angst book.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 20, 2024
Gwen Strickland is a no nonsense corporate attorney with a son in college. She is also, lonely and boring as stated by her best friend Grey. It is difficult not to like Grey, they support and give advice.
Etta Monroe, 2nd year law student and bartender working hard to make ends meet and looking forward to her summer internship. It is hard not to like Jorge, Etta's best friend. What a supportive and right there friend. Gwen and Etta meet and have one night together which turns into a steamy fling with no strings attached. Low and behold, Etta's internship is at Gwen's law firm and they continue to be very interested in each other. I really wanted to like this age-gap story based upon the description but I found the characters lacking in depth and it was hard to get to know their personalities. I also wanted more about Gwen's son. Why was he even in the story?
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley
Etta Monroe, 2nd year law student and bartender working hard to make ends meet and looking forward to her summer internship. It is hard not to like Jorge, Etta's best friend. What a supportive and right there friend. Gwen and Etta meet and have one night together which turns into a steamy fling with no strings attached. Low and behold, Etta's internship is at Gwen's law firm and they continue to be very interested in each other. I really wanted to like this age-gap story based upon the description but I found the characters lacking in depth and it was hard to get to know their personalities. I also wanted more about Gwen's son. Why was he even in the story?
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley
May 25, 2024
Moore's book is a good read, with an interesting May/November romance between two feminine, intelligent woman. It is well-written, and I enjoyed learning more about law education and the trajectory of a lawyer to a state Supreme Court. However, the character of Grey was problematic for me. I like to be able to visualize what the writer is painting, but I could not get a grasp on this non-binary (trans?) person. I could not picture whether they presented as feminine or masculine or anything. As a result, every time they appeared in the novel, I was annoyed. Were they wearing a suit? Did they have a beard? Glasses. There was no description of their appearance whatsoever, UNLIKE the feminine lesbian women. This soured the reading experience for me, which was otherwise enjoyable. I understand the author's desire to be relevant and "hip," but please don't sacrifice that need for a well-written story. Help the reader SEE the characters in your novel.
March 20, 2024
After a 'anonymous ' one night stand (well, two nights actually) Gwen is shocked to discover the new intern at her firm is her sexy bedmate.
Etta, a poor university student, needs this job to pay everything her scholarship doesn't cover, so she can't bail. Worse, she still finds Gwen very attractive.
Interestingly, they don't find out they're at the same firm until 2/5 through the book. The first third is them tentatively 'dating' though neither wants to call it that.
Then the firm finds out.
Good, solid read. The characters mostly worked for me, tho I feel Grey is a bit two faced. But The romance was good... it does have the dreaded temporary break up for drama, but at least it made sense for the book.
Etta, a poor university student, needs this job to pay everything her scholarship doesn't cover, so she can't bail. Worse, she still finds Gwen very attractive.
Interestingly, they don't find out they're at the same firm until 2/5 through the book. The first third is them tentatively 'dating' though neither wants to call it that.
Then the firm finds out.
Good, solid read. The characters mostly worked for me, tho I feel Grey is a bit two faced. But The romance was good... it does have the dreaded temporary break up for drama, but at least it made sense for the book.
April 29, 2024
Thank you Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley, for an advanced copy of this copy in exchange for an honest review.
When Etta, a young and thriving law student, meets Gwen, an older woman in her 40s, at a bar, she does not know what is about to come. They hit it off, and after a while, both realise that Etta is an intern for a summer at Gwen´s law firm. They should end their relationship. But is it possible to simply turn off your feelings? This novel really throws you into its story, and you end up invested in their love story. It is a simple book for a beach or when you want to immerse yourself in imagination and forget your own problems. I would recommend it to those who are looking for a steamy sapphic novel with an age-gap couple with work setting.
When Etta, a young and thriving law student, meets Gwen, an older woman in her 40s, at a bar, she does not know what is about to come. They hit it off, and after a while, both realise that Etta is an intern for a summer at Gwen´s law firm. They should end their relationship. But is it possible to simply turn off your feelings? This novel really throws you into its story, and you end up invested in their love story. It is a simple book for a beach or when you want to immerse yourself in imagination and forget your own problems. I would recommend it to those who are looking for a steamy sapphic novel with an age-gap couple with work setting.
April 2, 2024
Over all I liked this book. It was HEA which is what I look for when selecting a new read most of the time. I feel there could have been some parts left out just in the simple day to day tasks, where in others I feel like not enough detail was given.
I was also a little confused as all of the intimate scenes where very Y/A except for one. Therefore I think it would have been better to lean for either that or go all the way for a mature reader. I definitely think the author could have written exceptional sex scenes as demonstrated in the one instance that was detailed between etta and Gwen.
Overall I really did like the book and will definitely read more from this author
I was also a little confused as all of the intimate scenes where very Y/A except for one. Therefore I think it would have been better to lean for either that or go all the way for a mature reader. I definitely think the author could have written exceptional sex scenes as demonstrated in the one instance that was detailed between etta and Gwen.
Overall I really did like the book and will definitely read more from this author
April 7, 2024
Disclaimer: I received a free ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review:
Enjoyable read! I liked that this book had both an instant attraction factor but also a slow burn romance. I appreciate that there's enough scenes and dialogue between the two main characters to show how their casual affair builds into a real relationship, so it felt more believable than some other books I've read. As well, the book had not just one, but two, awkward disasters for our main characters, and it felt very fun being in the know about what was coming! Overall, would recommend giving this one a try. 4.5/5 stars rounded up!
Enjoyable read! I liked that this book had both an instant attraction factor but also a slow burn romance. I appreciate that there's enough scenes and dialogue between the two main characters to show how their casual affair builds into a real relationship, so it felt more believable than some other books I've read. As well, the book had not just one, but two, awkward disasters for our main characters, and it felt very fun being in the know about what was coming! Overall, would recommend giving this one a try. 4.5/5 stars rounded up!
March 25, 2024
I would like to thank NetGalley, and Bold Strokes Books Inc. for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
this one was a super fun easy read! I love an age gap romance and this was the perfect amount! The world of law was also very interesting to learn about which was very different as well! Etta and Gwen were both their own person and did not lose sight of that at all which I loved. In conclusion, it was a cute/fun read!
this one was a super fun easy read! I love an age gap romance and this was the perfect amount! The world of law was also very interesting to learn about which was very different as well! Etta and Gwen were both their own person and did not lose sight of that at all which I loved. In conclusion, it was a cute/fun read!
March 28, 2024
LESBIAN SMUT! Haha but seriously I did like this book, it was very much a romance drama and I felt like I was watching a romcom while reading it. The conversations and relationship felt authentic and I appreciate that there was a happy ending. If this is what romance books are like call me a fan.
Thank you Nelnet Galley and Bold Strokes Books for giving me an eARC for my honest review.
Thank you Nelnet Galley and Bold Strokes Books for giving me an eARC for my honest review.
April 4, 2024
Gwen Strickland (an established lawyer and possible GA Supreme Court justice) and Etta Monroe (a law student) hook up in the spring and are shocked when Etta becomes a summer intern at Gwen’s law firm. Is it a spring fling? Do they have feelings for each other?
Thank you, NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books, for a copy. A perfect read for the pool or beach!
Thank you, NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books, for a copy. A perfect read for the pool or beach!
March 22, 2024
This was a great story and I was in it from chapter 1, I loved these characters and their friends. Their story was sweet but also naughty in such a good way I would definitely consider this a must read for anyone in our community.
April 8, 2024
Secret from the office, FF age gap with some steaminess thrown in. One spicy scene, but the rest were pretty closed door.
These two boss ladies had some fun chemistry. I could have stood for more, but I'm also kinda greedy that way. Give me one lil eye glimmer and suddenly I need to hoard them all.
These two boss ladies had some fun chemistry. I could have stood for more, but I'm also kinda greedy that way. Give me one lil eye glimmer and suddenly I need to hoard them all.
May 5, 2025
I really liked this although I don't think there was anything in particular that made it stand out...maybe just that the relationship just develops in a nice way. The angst could have been avoided, of course, but it didn't put me off reading it and I don't like forced angst.
May 4, 2024
I quite enjoyed this one. 💖💖💖
October 27, 2025
Excellent
Just a great story, interesting plot, not too much legalese, lovely romance with great main and supporting characters. I especially enjoyed Etta!
Just a great story, interesting plot, not too much legalese, lovely romance with great main and supporting characters. I especially enjoyed Etta!
March 25, 2024
When the meeting of choosing the book for the coming year runs late, she accepts their invite to go for drinks. While there she meets Etta, a 2L law student. They have a one night stand. Etta later moves to Atlanta for a summer internship. They start seeing each other, unofficially of course.
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