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Romancing the Rumrunner
Prohibition Era Chicago
She's worked too hard to be run out of town...
Jessica Harlan spends her nights as The Phoenix, the owner of the most popular speakeasy in town. Her days are spent running her respectable butcher shop and dodging prohibition agents and rival club owners who all want to put her out of business.
He's worked too hard to let his heart get in the way...
When the opportunity arises to go undercover for the Feds to catch The Phoenix, Gumshoe Anthony Solomon jumps on it. But he never suspected the notorious rumrunner would be a dame - or that he'd be so drawn to the feisty little minx.
They play a dangerous game of cat and mouse, knowing they can't trust the other, but unable to walk away. While their hearts dodge the crossfire, the mobsters raise the stakes, and even The Phoenix may not rise again.
She's worked too hard to be run out of town...
Jessica Harlan spends her nights as The Phoenix, the owner of the most popular speakeasy in town. Her days are spent running her respectable butcher shop and dodging prohibition agents and rival club owners who all want to put her out of business.
He's worked too hard to let his heart get in the way...
When the opportunity arises to go undercover for the Feds to catch The Phoenix, Gumshoe Anthony Solomon jumps on it. But he never suspected the notorious rumrunner would be a dame - or that he'd be so drawn to the feisty little minx.
They play a dangerous game of cat and mouse, knowing they can't trust the other, but unable to walk away. While their hearts dodge the crossfire, the mobsters raise the stakes, and even The Phoenix may not rise again.
219 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 9, 2014
About the author
Michelle McLean
35 books289 followersMichelle McLean is a jeans and t-shirt kind of girl who is addicted to chocolate and Goldfish crackers and spent most of her formative years with her nose in a book. She has a B.S. in History, an M.A. in English, and loves her romances with a little heat, a lot of humor, and always a happily ever after.
When Michelle's not working, reading, or chasing her kids around, she can usually be found baking or diamond painting, which she accidentally got addicted to while bored one day. She resides in PA with her husband and two teens, the world's most spoiled dog, and two cats who absolutely rule the house. She also writes contemporary romance as Kira Archer.
For more info on Michelle and her work, visit her website at michellemcleanbooks.com.
When Michelle's not working, reading, or chasing her kids around, she can usually be found baking or diamond painting, which she accidentally got addicted to while bored one day. She resides in PA with her husband and two teens, the world's most spoiled dog, and two cats who absolutely rule the house. She also writes contemporary romance as Kira Archer.
For more info on Michelle and her work, visit her website at michellemcleanbooks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
June 8, 2014
Romancing the Rumrunner
Michelle McLean
In 1920s Chicago, The Red Phoenix is the Cat's Meow speakeasy in town. All the flappers, live wires, dolled up dames and flyboys love to get all their KEISTERS in the front row, drink gin, listen to the smooth sounds of Miss Maude and maybe if they are lucky, make WHOOPEE!
Jessica, Jessie, Harlan leads a double live, as a run of the mill Butcher shop owner by day and the UNKNOWN owner of the speakeasy, The Red Phoenix. Only her BF Maude, who sings at the club, and Joe, the long time friend of her deceased dad and worker at the Butcher shop, know she is the Big Cheese! Jessie is so sick of all the Prohibition problems she has, her flimflam ex Mario, his mobster boss Willie the Weasel and the worst is Prohibition Agent Earl Jameson are getting her all balled up. She just needs to keep The Red Phoenix open for a few more months and she will pay off the money her dad borrowed from Willie, have enough cash to keep devoted Joe on payroll and a nice nest egg for the shop.
Private dick Anthony, Tony, Solomon was a brilliant cop who was ALLOWED to retire, after a bust when side ways and his partner was shot and killed. He crawled into a bottle, crawled out with help from his mom, was unable to find a job in law enforcement, so he opened a gumshoe shop to keep a cheap roof over his Mom's head. Now Tony takes up lollygagging cases for cheating spouses. Agent(ex friend) Jameson walks into his office with a paycheck that would make a ugly dog purr and a possible chance to make is law enforcement name COPACETIC again. Jameson, the wet blanket, tells Tony he must cozy up to the Phoenix 's moll, Jessie Harlan, uncover the Phoenix identity and get evidence to slam the mysterious Phoenix in lockup for good.
When Tony and Jessie meet, it like a whammy for them both, his a tall drink of water to her and she is a Ritzy dame with spiffy gams to him. Tony makes a play to have her sing in his Gin Mill and hopefully get the low down on his mark. Jessie accepts because she needs the info on him, Jameson, Willie and to protect herself. When she gets all spiffy and dolled up to sing at The Corkscrew, she always looks, finds and sings directly to him. Tony is downing rum just to keep away for the sexy Bearcat. The sexual tension from they steamy necking, sensual caresses and almost hard up against the wall action is going to blow up in their faces. Will Tony betray Jessie just to get his law career back? Can Jessie actually trust Tony with her all her secrets? With all they wandering lips and hands, who romancing who? Will revealing the true Phoenix demolished both their worlds? Is their love the Real McCoy?
This was such a change different time, place and language for me to digest and I will be honest and say Google was my friend with the 1920s slang. Ms. McLean had to have her head in 1920s slang books and old Prohibition and mobster research until she thought she was the Phoenix, SNAP she was, wasn't she! Jessie is heroine with a heart of gold, who put everyone before herself and she learned that from her dad. Tony was reformed rake who just wanted to do right by his mom, but his mom didn't need his money, just her son to be happy and loved. Ms. McLean writes great steamy and described scenes, but they were always had a rude intruder and I was getting a little ticked off, but then I got to the end of her tale and she gave me an long, fierce, passionate and uninterrupted scene. Since this was my first 1920s novel, I loved and kinda soaked up (as my review shows) all the slang, the characters, the Chicago setting and all the 1920s Prohibition craziness. This is a book that should not be missed for any romance fan who wants to expand their reading diet to different and unique places and times. This is my first, but no way my last, Ms. McLean story and it was the BEE'S KNEE, and gets my score of 4 fingers up and 8 toes!
NetGalley ARC given for my honest review.
Michelle McLean
In 1920s Chicago, The Red Phoenix is the Cat's Meow speakeasy in town. All the flappers, live wires, dolled up dames and flyboys love to get all their KEISTERS in the front row, drink gin, listen to the smooth sounds of Miss Maude and maybe if they are lucky, make WHOOPEE!
Jessica, Jessie, Harlan leads a double live, as a run of the mill Butcher shop owner by day and the UNKNOWN owner of the speakeasy, The Red Phoenix. Only her BF Maude, who sings at the club, and Joe, the long time friend of her deceased dad and worker at the Butcher shop, know she is the Big Cheese! Jessie is so sick of all the Prohibition problems she has, her flimflam ex Mario, his mobster boss Willie the Weasel and the worst is Prohibition Agent Earl Jameson are getting her all balled up. She just needs to keep The Red Phoenix open for a few more months and she will pay off the money her dad borrowed from Willie, have enough cash to keep devoted Joe on payroll and a nice nest egg for the shop.
Private dick Anthony, Tony, Solomon was a brilliant cop who was ALLOWED to retire, after a bust when side ways and his partner was shot and killed. He crawled into a bottle, crawled out with help from his mom, was unable to find a job in law enforcement, so he opened a gumshoe shop to keep a cheap roof over his Mom's head. Now Tony takes up lollygagging cases for cheating spouses. Agent(ex friend) Jameson walks into his office with a paycheck that would make a ugly dog purr and a possible chance to make is law enforcement name COPACETIC again. Jameson, the wet blanket, tells Tony he must cozy up to the Phoenix 's moll, Jessie Harlan, uncover the Phoenix identity and get evidence to slam the mysterious Phoenix in lockup for good.
When Tony and Jessie meet, it like a whammy for them both, his a tall drink of water to her and she is a Ritzy dame with spiffy gams to him. Tony makes a play to have her sing in his Gin Mill and hopefully get the low down on his mark. Jessie accepts because she needs the info on him, Jameson, Willie and to protect herself. When she gets all spiffy and dolled up to sing at The Corkscrew, she always looks, finds and sings directly to him. Tony is downing rum just to keep away for the sexy Bearcat. The sexual tension from they steamy necking, sensual caresses and almost hard up against the wall action is going to blow up in their faces. Will Tony betray Jessie just to get his law career back? Can Jessie actually trust Tony with her all her secrets? With all they wandering lips and hands, who romancing who? Will revealing the true Phoenix demolished both their worlds? Is their love the Real McCoy?
This was such a change different time, place and language for me to digest and I will be honest and say Google was my friend with the 1920s slang. Ms. McLean had to have her head in 1920s slang books and old Prohibition and mobster research until she thought she was the Phoenix, SNAP she was, wasn't she! Jessie is heroine with a heart of gold, who put everyone before herself and she learned that from her dad. Tony was reformed rake who just wanted to do right by his mom, but his mom didn't need his money, just her son to be happy and loved. Ms. McLean writes great steamy and described scenes, but they were always had a rude intruder and I was getting a little ticked off, but then I got to the end of her tale and she gave me an long, fierce, passionate and uninterrupted scene. Since this was my first 1920s novel, I loved and kinda soaked up (as my review shows) all the slang, the characters, the Chicago setting and all the 1920s Prohibition craziness. This is a book that should not be missed for any romance fan who wants to expand their reading diet to different and unique places and times. This is my first, but no way my last, Ms. McLean story and it was the BEE'S KNEE, and gets my score of 4 fingers up and 8 toes!
NetGalley ARC given for my honest review.
May 15, 2014
"If God had meant for us to go barreling toward each other at forty miles per hour we'd have been born with wheels on our feet."
It's a lady running a speakeasy and a P.I. determined to haul her in...thinking that she's really a he named The Red Phoenix.
She needs to keep her show running in order to pay off her dead father's debts, and he needs to bring her down to get in the Police Force's good graces again. What a conundrum!
Is there really any way for either one to come out on top?
I liked this story. It was an easy, uncomplicated read. I think there could have been more meat to it though. And I did expect a lady rumrunner to be a bit tougher.
What I liked was how the heroine realized being sexy/sensual is okay. She becomes aware of her own power.
"There was something incredibly empowering about striking a man dumb."
She grows in confidence too, thanks to singing onstage. I'm not sure if this was intended to be a big deal, but for some reason this really came off the page for me.
As the story continued though, some things began to irritate me or not sit well with me. Some of the things she does are just not explained, make no sense. Letting Tony into her booze room. How incredibly stupid. Her continuing to sing at his club when it becomes obvious she's not going to get anything out of it as far as "scoping the competition". On the contrary, she's hurting her own business. Her apparent unconcern with money one moment, then slumping with exhaustion the next because she's doing too much in order to pay back a mobster.
But what I really hated above all is how Tony got on her case for singing too sexy. To me, he implied that because of her sexy, sultry singing--which he'd warned her not to do--is the reason a man nearly attacks her. Like she's asking for it. He even warns her not to sing that way anymore, or he'll react.
Until that point, I actually liked Tony. This was a hero-killer for me.
Also disappointing to me is...well, she's a singer and she's up there singing sultry tunes... WHAT is she singing? I personally love the music and lyrics from the twenties and would have loved to have known what she was singing. Lyrics from those days, they are public domain, so share them with us! If you can't for some reason, make some up!
Full review is on Book Babe: http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.com/2014/...
It's a lady running a speakeasy and a P.I. determined to haul her in...thinking that she's really a he named The Red Phoenix.
She needs to keep her show running in order to pay off her dead father's debts, and he needs to bring her down to get in the Police Force's good graces again. What a conundrum!
Is there really any way for either one to come out on top?
I liked this story. It was an easy, uncomplicated read. I think there could have been more meat to it though. And I did expect a lady rumrunner to be a bit tougher.
What I liked was how the heroine realized being sexy/sensual is okay. She becomes aware of her own power.
"There was something incredibly empowering about striking a man dumb."
She grows in confidence too, thanks to singing onstage. I'm not sure if this was intended to be a big deal, but for some reason this really came off the page for me.
As the story continued though, some things began to irritate me or not sit well with me. Some of the things she does are just not explained, make no sense. Letting Tony into her booze room. How incredibly stupid. Her continuing to sing at his club when it becomes obvious she's not going to get anything out of it as far as "scoping the competition". On the contrary, she's hurting her own business. Her apparent unconcern with money one moment, then slumping with exhaustion the next because she's doing too much in order to pay back a mobster.
But what I really hated above all is how Tony got on her case for singing too sexy. To me, he implied that because of her sexy, sultry singing--which he'd warned her not to do--is the reason a man nearly attacks her. Like she's asking for it. He even warns her not to sing that way anymore, or he'll react.
Until that point, I actually liked Tony. This was a hero-killer for me.
Also disappointing to me is...well, she's a singer and she's up there singing sultry tunes... WHAT is she singing? I personally love the music and lyrics from the twenties and would have loved to have known what she was singing. Lyrics from those days, they are public domain, so share them with us! If you can't for some reason, make some up!
Full review is on Book Babe: http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.com/2014/...
March 12, 2016
To tell the truth, the book quality is actually 2 to 3 stars, but I am going to give it a 4-star rating because the ending was beautiful!
January 11, 2020
Finished this book today, for me it was a 3.5 star read. I really enjoyed the setting, the atmosphere, the jargon of the time, and all the elements we associate with the twenties: speakeasies, bootleggers, flappers, and gangsters. The heroine was very likable and I always enjoy a competent and independent female MC. The plot however didn’t really grip me and the romance was lukewarm at best. The MCs decisions didn’t often make sense to me and even though there was great potential for conflict, it didn’t really translate to the page. I agree with an earlier reviewer that the ending felt rushed. I will probably check out other books from the era though, because that was my favorite part. 😊
May 29, 2014
Originally reviewed on
Romancing the Dark Side:
A sizzling romance filled with speakeasies and secrets set in era of the Roaring Twenties!
Jessica Harlan is a young and independent woman trying to make a living by running the butcher shop which she’s inherited, along with all of her father’s debts. With no husband or family to count on, Jessie leads a double life as a butcher by day and owner of The Red Phoenix, a speakeasy, by night. With prohibition agents tracking her every move Jessica knows it’s only a matter of time before her identity is revealed and club is compromised. Enter Anthony Solomon, an ex-cop turned private investigator looking for redemption from his past. When an old colleague gives Tony the chance to redeem his law enforcement career and earn a handsome paycheck by taking down the infamous Phoenix, he gladly accepts. To uncover the Phoenix’s identity, Tony must “cozy up” to his rumored flame, none other than Jessica Harlan. Tony is determined to do whatever it takes to catch the notorious Phoenix but will he be able to carry out this game of seduction without falling for the beautiful rumrunner?
ROMANCING THE RUMRUNNER is an engaging story that had me hooked from beginning to end. When I read the synopsis of this book I wasted no time in requesting a copy from Entangled Publishing. I love reading about the Roaring Twenties, especially the glamour and bad boys of that era. I’d like blame it on my love for Boardwalk Empire, but I’ve always been fascinated by this time period. Michelle McLean beautifully captures the essence of the 1920s with the story’s Chicago setting and some entertaining slang specific to the time, that had me laughing out loud. Her writing easily transports you to the intriguing world of Prohibition, speakeasies and gangsters!
When Jessie is introduced to the story she seems like a strong willed woman operating two businesses (legally and illegally), but I have to admit I was expecting her to be a bit rougher around the edges, being a female rumrunner and all. Instead I saw a sweet and generous heroine who struggles with confidence but slowly comes into her own after meeting Tony and becoming a singer at The Corkscrew, another speakeasy. Yeah, did I mention her way of checking out the competition is to take a job as a singer at her rival’s club?!
Even when she makes some questionable choices (i.e. like showing Tony her secret stash of hooch), Jessie is still a very relatable heroine. She’s not a damsel in distress, sure she’s had some bad luck with men and has a few trust issues, but is completely independent and trying to right the wrongs of her father for a better life. Her hidden talent is her singing voice and while I loved that the author showcases this aspect to her personality in the story, I thought it could have been fleshed out a little more. While singing at The Corkscrew her lyrics are described to be very sultry but we never actually know what she’s signing, only that Tony does not approve, which is something I’ll vent about later.
The hero, Tony is both charming and frustrating in my opinion. He has a few demons from his past, nothing that makes him a real bad boy in my eyes but he definitely makes up for it with his charming personality and gentlemanly ways. He knows just what to say to make Jessie blush and I loved watching the attraction and mistrust that ensues between these two. Tony’s possessiveness with Jessie at The Corkscrew was his only major flaw in my book, don’t get me wrong I love an alpha male but I just feel that it was uncalled for given the situation. He hires her to sing at his club and then gets on her case for doing just that, I didn’t buy the whole “you’re going to drive all the men crazy” act when that was her job! I thought Jessie never gave him reason to feel she was interested in someone else but him, but after learning of his past with his ex , I could understand (but not approve) his behavior. That being said, I think they made a really cute couple when it was all said and done. You can argue that they initially deceived each other for their own gain but it just makes their romance that much interesting. I was hoping for more smexy times behind closed doors because of their intense chemistry, but there’s a lot of kissing and touching before any real action happens towards the book’s end (but it happens).
All in all, ROMANCING THE RUMRUNNER is a delightful story with well developed characters, romance and a dose of suspense. Tony and Jessie’s escapades will keep you turning the pages and their sweet romance make it an effortless read. There’s also one supporting character worth mentioning that I think shines throughout the story and that’s Miss Maude, Jessie’s sassy best friend and singer at The Red Phoenix, she’s fabulous! This is my first book by the author and Michelle McClean has won me over with her bootlegger heroine and charming P.I. hero, I can’t wait to read more of her work. Whether you long for a story set in a different time or are looking for a great beach read with a little steam to it, you’ll be sure to think ROMANCING THE RUMRUNNER is the cat’s meow!
**I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
A sizzling romance filled with speakeasies and secrets set in era of the Roaring Twenties!
Jessica Harlan is a young and independent woman trying to make a living by running the butcher shop which she’s inherited, along with all of her father’s debts. With no husband or family to count on, Jessie leads a double life as a butcher by day and owner of The Red Phoenix, a speakeasy, by night. With prohibition agents tracking her every move Jessica knows it’s only a matter of time before her identity is revealed and club is compromised. Enter Anthony Solomon, an ex-cop turned private investigator looking for redemption from his past. When an old colleague gives Tony the chance to redeem his law enforcement career and earn a handsome paycheck by taking down the infamous Phoenix, he gladly accepts. To uncover the Phoenix’s identity, Tony must “cozy up” to his rumored flame, none other than Jessica Harlan. Tony is determined to do whatever it takes to catch the notorious Phoenix but will he be able to carry out this game of seduction without falling for the beautiful rumrunner?
ROMANCING THE RUMRUNNER is an engaging story that had me hooked from beginning to end. When I read the synopsis of this book I wasted no time in requesting a copy from Entangled Publishing. I love reading about the Roaring Twenties, especially the glamour and bad boys of that era. I’d like blame it on my love for Boardwalk Empire, but I’ve always been fascinated by this time period. Michelle McLean beautifully captures the essence of the 1920s with the story’s Chicago setting and some entertaining slang specific to the time, that had me laughing out loud. Her writing easily transports you to the intriguing world of Prohibition, speakeasies and gangsters!
When Jessie is introduced to the story she seems like a strong willed woman operating two businesses (legally and illegally), but I have to admit I was expecting her to be a bit rougher around the edges, being a female rumrunner and all. Instead I saw a sweet and generous heroine who struggles with confidence but slowly comes into her own after meeting Tony and becoming a singer at The Corkscrew, another speakeasy. Yeah, did I mention her way of checking out the competition is to take a job as a singer at her rival’s club?!
Even when she makes some questionable choices (i.e. like showing Tony her secret stash of hooch), Jessie is still a very relatable heroine. She’s not a damsel in distress, sure she’s had some bad luck with men and has a few trust issues, but is completely independent and trying to right the wrongs of her father for a better life. Her hidden talent is her singing voice and while I loved that the author showcases this aspect to her personality in the story, I thought it could have been fleshed out a little more. While singing at The Corkscrew her lyrics are described to be very sultry but we never actually know what she’s signing, only that Tony does not approve, which is something I’ll vent about later.
The hero, Tony is both charming and frustrating in my opinion. He has a few demons from his past, nothing that makes him a real bad boy in my eyes but he definitely makes up for it with his charming personality and gentlemanly ways. He knows just what to say to make Jessie blush and I loved watching the attraction and mistrust that ensues between these two. Tony’s possessiveness with Jessie at The Corkscrew was his only major flaw in my book, don’t get me wrong I love an alpha male but I just feel that it was uncalled for given the situation. He hires her to sing at his club and then gets on her case for doing just that, I didn’t buy the whole “you’re going to drive all the men crazy” act when that was her job! I thought Jessie never gave him reason to feel she was interested in someone else but him, but after learning of his past with his ex , I could understand (but not approve) his behavior. That being said, I think they made a really cute couple when it was all said and done. You can argue that they initially deceived each other for their own gain but it just makes their romance that much interesting. I was hoping for more smexy times behind closed doors because of their intense chemistry, but there’s a lot of kissing and touching before any real action happens towards the book’s end (but it happens).
All in all, ROMANCING THE RUMRUNNER is a delightful story with well developed characters, romance and a dose of suspense. Tony and Jessie’s escapades will keep you turning the pages and their sweet romance make it an effortless read. There’s also one supporting character worth mentioning that I think shines throughout the story and that’s Miss Maude, Jessie’s sassy best friend and singer at The Red Phoenix, she’s fabulous! This is my first book by the author and Michelle McClean has won me over with her bootlegger heroine and charming P.I. hero, I can’t wait to read more of her work. Whether you long for a story set in a different time or are looking for a great beach read with a little steam to it, you’ll be sure to think ROMANCING THE RUMRUNNER is the cat’s meow!
**I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 11, 2023
I enjoyed some plot points and pieces of this story, but overall I found Jessie's arc was much more interesting than Tony's, who was frustrating and one-dimensional. The speakeasy and prohibition setting were fun to read about, not a setting I read often.
August 29, 2023
I wouldn't rate this among the hated, but I certainly didn't like it. But the reason it is getting rounded down to 1 star because the name of the book, the eponymous "Rum Runner" does not exist in this story. It's a huge point that there is in fact NO rum running going on. Smdh.
The setting here is constructed mostly of calling women dames and dolls. And smoking a "ciggy" now and then. I kind of hate it. It feels inauthentic and cheap.
The premise of working for your competitor, and in such a way that will enhance his business is the stupidest way I have ever heard of getting information. I'm supposed to think this woman is some devious criminal mastermind and a head for business and THIS is the plan she comes up with??
Jessie and Tony have no chemistry and their interactions are awkward. He starts coming off as sleazy. Yes, I do want you to wait in the hall while I change since it is certainly not the HUGELY inconvenient request you have made it out to be, you nob.
This whole thing felt off and unconvincing from the characters to the setting. The writing was not smooth and the transitions were stunted and jarring.
The setting here is constructed mostly of calling women dames and dolls. And smoking a "ciggy" now and then. I kind of hate it. It feels inauthentic and cheap.
The premise of working for your competitor, and in such a way that will enhance his business is the stupidest way I have ever heard of getting information. I'm supposed to think this woman is some devious criminal mastermind and a head for business and THIS is the plan she comes up with??
Jessie and Tony have no chemistry and their interactions are awkward. He starts coming off as sleazy. Yes, I do want you to wait in the hall while I change since it is certainly not the HUGELY inconvenient request you have made it out to be, you nob.
This whole thing felt off and unconvincing from the characters to the setting. The writing was not smooth and the transitions were stunted and jarring.
September 9, 2025
Very well written but also very predictable. It was an okay read, could've been more interesting.
May 28, 2014
Prohibition Era Chicago
She's worked too hard to be run out of town...
Jessica Harlan spends her nights as The Phoenix, the owner of the most popular speakeasy in town. Her days are spent running her respectable butcher shop and dodging prohibition agents and rival club owners who all want to put her out of business.
He's worked too hard to let his heart get in the way...
When the opportunity arises to go undercover for the Feds to catch The Phoenix, Gumshoe Anthony Solomon jumps on it. But he never suspected the notorious rumrunner would be a dame - or that he'd be so drawn to the feisty little minx.
They play a dangerous game of cat and mouse, knowing they can't trust the other, but unable to walk away. While their hearts dodge the crossfire, the mobsters raise the stakes, and even The Phoenix may not rise again.
Review:
Lately, I have been into 1920's era books and was so excited when I saw this book. Thank you Entangled! for the review copy in exchange for an honest and fair review.
This is a first time author for me and I really liked her writing style and you can tell she took the time to research not only the 1920's but Prohibition Chicago. You get a real feel for the time and the characters.
The story centers around Jessica, who is a strong, independent female in an era where women were starting to spread their wings and do things that were not an option for them before. Jessie to save the butcher shop that had been left to her by her father, opens a speakeasy in tunnels below Chicago and becomes the Phoenix. Jessie is just trying to survive while the Feds and the mob all want to take down The Phoenix. The Feds enlist former officer Tony to get information on Jessie and the Phoenix. Tony is a great character, he is flawed but wants to do right and in the end puts Jessie in danger because of his actions. The chemistry between Tony and Jessie is so obvious, but they both are hiding secrets.
Great story, set in a time-frame I find totally fascinating! Full of romance, action and secrets.
4Stars
She's worked too hard to be run out of town...
Jessica Harlan spends her nights as The Phoenix, the owner of the most popular speakeasy in town. Her days are spent running her respectable butcher shop and dodging prohibition agents and rival club owners who all want to put her out of business.
He's worked too hard to let his heart get in the way...
When the opportunity arises to go undercover for the Feds to catch The Phoenix, Gumshoe Anthony Solomon jumps on it. But he never suspected the notorious rumrunner would be a dame - or that he'd be so drawn to the feisty little minx.
They play a dangerous game of cat and mouse, knowing they can't trust the other, but unable to walk away. While their hearts dodge the crossfire, the mobsters raise the stakes, and even The Phoenix may not rise again.
Review:
Lately, I have been into 1920's era books and was so excited when I saw this book. Thank you Entangled! for the review copy in exchange for an honest and fair review.
This is a first time author for me and I really liked her writing style and you can tell she took the time to research not only the 1920's but Prohibition Chicago. You get a real feel for the time and the characters.
The story centers around Jessica, who is a strong, independent female in an era where women were starting to spread their wings and do things that were not an option for them before. Jessie to save the butcher shop that had been left to her by her father, opens a speakeasy in tunnels below Chicago and becomes the Phoenix. Jessie is just trying to survive while the Feds and the mob all want to take down The Phoenix. The Feds enlist former officer Tony to get information on Jessie and the Phoenix. Tony is a great character, he is flawed but wants to do right and in the end puts Jessie in danger because of his actions. The chemistry between Tony and Jessie is so obvious, but they both are hiding secrets.
Great story, set in a time-frame I find totally fascinating! Full of romance, action and secrets.
4Stars
June 24, 2014
Posted on Les Romantiques - Le forum du site
Reviewed by Rinou
Review Copy from the Publisher
For me, The Prohibition is an American period a bit vague featuring Eliot Ness/Kevin Costner. So when I read the synopsis for Romancing the rumrunner I thought the context would be interesting. And on this point I wasn’t disappointed.
Jessica Harlan runs her late father’s butcher shop by day and a speakeasy by night, pretending to manage it for the mysterious Phoenix. The arrival of Anthony Solomon, undercover agent sent by the prohibition agents to catch the Phoenix, is going to complicate and put her life in danger.
Just this once I’m going to start with the context. The author knew how to faithfully transpose the atmosphere of the period, even using a slang vocabulary specific and unusual that forced me to get my dictionary out again (which hadn’t happen to me in a long time). In short I thought without problem I was in this period. My regret? That the author didn’t tell the titles of the songs sung by the heroine, as Jessica’s singing sets are so important in the story.
I also like the characters a lot. Jessica is a strong woman, who does the best she can to get by between the mob on one side and the feds on the other side. She’s clever, sensitive and determined. Tony is a straight and smooth-talking character, who made a mistake that cost his partner’s life and had him fired from the Police, and he’s afraid to trust the wrong person again.
I liked how they both struggle between trust and suspicion, and I liked each evolution. There are several cute sensual scenes that show well the sparks between them. I just thought the transition between strong attraction and love was perhaps a bit too fast, but it’s probably because I had trouble seeing the months that supposedly took place during the novel.
So this is an historical romance I recommend warmly to those who want to get out of the usual eras. Even if I didn’t completely fall for the couple, the story is worth the shot, guaranteed change of scenery. And I think the cover is very pretty.
Reviewed by Rinou
Review Copy from the Publisher
For me, The Prohibition is an American period a bit vague featuring Eliot Ness/Kevin Costner. So when I read the synopsis for Romancing the rumrunner I thought the context would be interesting. And on this point I wasn’t disappointed.
Jessica Harlan runs her late father’s butcher shop by day and a speakeasy by night, pretending to manage it for the mysterious Phoenix. The arrival of Anthony Solomon, undercover agent sent by the prohibition agents to catch the Phoenix, is going to complicate and put her life in danger.
Just this once I’m going to start with the context. The author knew how to faithfully transpose the atmosphere of the period, even using a slang vocabulary specific and unusual that forced me to get my dictionary out again (which hadn’t happen to me in a long time). In short I thought without problem I was in this period. My regret? That the author didn’t tell the titles of the songs sung by the heroine, as Jessica’s singing sets are so important in the story.
I also like the characters a lot. Jessica is a strong woman, who does the best she can to get by between the mob on one side and the feds on the other side. She’s clever, sensitive and determined. Tony is a straight and smooth-talking character, who made a mistake that cost his partner’s life and had him fired from the Police, and he’s afraid to trust the wrong person again.
I liked how they both struggle between trust and suspicion, and I liked each evolution. There are several cute sensual scenes that show well the sparks between them. I just thought the transition between strong attraction and love was perhaps a bit too fast, but it’s probably because I had trouble seeing the months that supposedly took place during the novel.
So this is an historical romance I recommend warmly to those who want to get out of the usual eras. Even if I didn’t completely fall for the couple, the story is worth the shot, guaranteed change of scenery. And I think the cover is very pretty.
June 13, 2014
Posted on What I'm Reading
When I started Romancing the Rumrunner by Michelle McLean, I was a little worry. I know I say that often, but I felt it was a little at the beginning. At the same time I was curious on how the story was go. I guess you can say I was sucked in. Of course, that's a good thing.
Anyway, I love the idea of the story's setting taking place in Chicago in the 1920s. I mean a lot is going on during that time. You have gangsters, prohibition, and all the other stuff that's associated with the 1920s. So, that's what really draw me to the story.
In Romancing the Rumrunner, we meet Jessica Harlan (Jessie) whose trying to keep things afloat, but it's a tad bit difficult. After all she has a thug wanting his payment, because her father took a loan. She's left with a butcher shop that's barely meeting her needs, so she decides to open a speakeasy until everything is back in the black. However, a couple problems: the feds and other club owners.
Next we meet Anthony Solomn (Tony). Now Tony use to be a detective until one incident, which caused him to get blackball. Now he's a private investigator, but he has a chance for redemption if he's able to catch the person named Phoenix, and his only lead is Jessie.
I actually enjoyed the story, because both characters don't really trust one another. Of course their trust issues stem from previous relationships. Gotta love that. I liked both characters. Both of them have good hearts. Tony lives with the guilt from the past and he figures finding the rumrunner is a good start to fix his life. Jessie trying to make ends meet and keep her head afloat. I like that she's not simpering. She has a pretty good on her shoulder. All in all Romancing the Rumrunner is a pretty good read. I like that it's takes place in the 20s, you have a little romance and danger.
Copy provided by the publisher
When I started Romancing the Rumrunner by Michelle McLean, I was a little worry. I know I say that often, but I felt it was a little at the beginning. At the same time I was curious on how the story was go. I guess you can say I was sucked in. Of course, that's a good thing.
Anyway, I love the idea of the story's setting taking place in Chicago in the 1920s. I mean a lot is going on during that time. You have gangsters, prohibition, and all the other stuff that's associated with the 1920s. So, that's what really draw me to the story.
In Romancing the Rumrunner, we meet Jessica Harlan (Jessie) whose trying to keep things afloat, but it's a tad bit difficult. After all she has a thug wanting his payment, because her father took a loan. She's left with a butcher shop that's barely meeting her needs, so she decides to open a speakeasy until everything is back in the black. However, a couple problems: the feds and other club owners.
Next we meet Anthony Solomn (Tony). Now Tony use to be a detective until one incident, which caused him to get blackball. Now he's a private investigator, but he has a chance for redemption if he's able to catch the person named Phoenix, and his only lead is Jessie.
I actually enjoyed the story, because both characters don't really trust one another. Of course their trust issues stem from previous relationships. Gotta love that. I liked both characters. Both of them have good hearts. Tony lives with the guilt from the past and he figures finding the rumrunner is a good start to fix his life. Jessie trying to make ends meet and keep her head afloat. I like that she's not simpering. She has a pretty good on her shoulder. All in all Romancing the Rumrunner is a pretty good read. I like that it's takes place in the 20s, you have a little romance and danger.
Copy provided by the publisher
July 10, 2014
This book is from a unique time period (unique to me at least - I've never read a romance from this time period). A time where prohibition is in effect and speakeasies are underground. Jessie (Red Phoenix) is a butcher trying to save her butcher shop (and pay debts) she inherited from her dad by day and is the Red Phoenix, speakeasy owner by night. But it's not easy burning the candle at both ends. She has to stay 2 steps ahead of the feds who are trying to catch the speakeasy in the act.
In walks Tony, a has been cop turned private eye. Tony is given an opportunity he can not refuse. He wants to get back to police work that he was unjustly released from and thanks to Jamerson, he has another chance. What he doesn't bank on is falling for the beautiful and talented Jessie.
It's a game of cat and mouse. Jessie suspects Tony is not on the up and up and Tony is fighting his attraction to who he assumes is The Phoenix's Girl. Who will win the game??? I recommend you buy the book and find out.
This is a great read that I really enjoyed. The story line was great and the dialogue was believable. The descriptions to details were spot on and easy to visualize. I loved how this book was a mutli pov (my favorite kind). There was so much depth to the characters, even the side characters, that makes you become invested into the story. I couldn't get enough and had a hard time putting it down. About half way through it put me on an emotional roller coaster ride. It hard heartache, triumph, sadness, joy, anguish and most of all love.
Would I recommend this book: Most Definitely!
Would I read more from this author: Absolutely!
In walks Tony, a has been cop turned private eye. Tony is given an opportunity he can not refuse. He wants to get back to police work that he was unjustly released from and thanks to Jamerson, he has another chance. What he doesn't bank on is falling for the beautiful and talented Jessie.
It's a game of cat and mouse. Jessie suspects Tony is not on the up and up and Tony is fighting his attraction to who he assumes is The Phoenix's Girl. Who will win the game??? I recommend you buy the book and find out.
This is a great read that I really enjoyed. The story line was great and the dialogue was believable. The descriptions to details were spot on and easy to visualize. I loved how this book was a mutli pov (my favorite kind). There was so much depth to the characters, even the side characters, that makes you become invested into the story. I couldn't get enough and had a hard time putting it down. About half way through it put me on an emotional roller coaster ride. It hard heartache, triumph, sadness, joy, anguish and most of all love.
Would I recommend this book: Most Definitely!
Would I read more from this author: Absolutely!
June 3, 2014
This is my first book from this author and I'm pretty sure my first book that is from the prohibition era. I truly enjoy this book to the point I just have to go find more books about prohibition with romance.
Our heroine, Jessica or Jessie, is a strong woman that is trying to keep her butcher shop going and paying off the debts her father had. During the day she is plain old Jessie the butcher and at nights, during random nights, she is the owner of The Red Phoenix a speakeasy. She knows that the Feds are trying to get information from her and she knows to give them answer that doesn't lead them anywhere.
Anthony on the other hand is a private investigator. He used to be on the police force but an event happen that turn his life around.
With the Feds having no information as to who the owner of The Red Phoenix is or where it's locsted, they asked for Anthony to go undercover and get close to Jessie for information. As this undercover job progress, Anthony starts to fall for Jessie and the same around.
I love the ending. The romance the two have for each other was sweet and passionate for me. Even though Anthony 'betrayed' Jessie, he still manage to do right with her so she doesn't take the blame. The same with Jessie. They were devoted to each other at the end.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
Our heroine, Jessica or Jessie, is a strong woman that is trying to keep her butcher shop going and paying off the debts her father had. During the day she is plain old Jessie the butcher and at nights, during random nights, she is the owner of The Red Phoenix a speakeasy. She knows that the Feds are trying to get information from her and she knows to give them answer that doesn't lead them anywhere.
Anthony on the other hand is a private investigator. He used to be on the police force but an event happen that turn his life around.
With the Feds having no information as to who the owner of The Red Phoenix is or where it's locsted, they asked for Anthony to go undercover and get close to Jessie for information. As this undercover job progress, Anthony starts to fall for Jessie and the same around.
I love the ending. The romance the two have for each other was sweet and passionate for me. Even though Anthony 'betrayed' Jessie, he still manage to do right with her so she doesn't take the blame. The same with Jessie. They were devoted to each other at the end.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
May 30, 2014
I truly enjoyed this book that was set in the Prohibition Era of the 1920s. I am interested in that time and place so I was thrilled to receive a early copy of it from the publisher to review and give my honest opinion.
Jessica (Jessie) Harlan runs a butcher shop by day and is a secret proprietor of a speakeasy by night. Up until now, she has been able to stay one step ahead of the Feds and Agent Jamison. Only a few people know that she is the Phoenix and she will do whatever it takes to keep her secret.
Anthony (Tony) Solomon has spent the last few years trying to forgive himself for a mistake that cost him his partner and his job. He is now working as a PI and is offered a deal of a lifetime by Agent Jamison. He wants him to operate a speakeasy and bring down the Phoenix. Jessie is the only one who knows the true identity of this man.
What happens when you become the singer at the competition's speakeasy and start to fall for your boss? What happens when you are falling for the person you are trying to get information from? You'll have to read this great story to find out!
Jessica (Jessie) Harlan runs a butcher shop by day and is a secret proprietor of a speakeasy by night. Up until now, she has been able to stay one step ahead of the Feds and Agent Jamison. Only a few people know that she is the Phoenix and she will do whatever it takes to keep her secret.
Anthony (Tony) Solomon has spent the last few years trying to forgive himself for a mistake that cost him his partner and his job. He is now working as a PI and is offered a deal of a lifetime by Agent Jamison. He wants him to operate a speakeasy and bring down the Phoenix. Jessie is the only one who knows the true identity of this man.
What happens when you become the singer at the competition's speakeasy and start to fall for your boss? What happens when you are falling for the person you are trying to get information from? You'll have to read this great story to find out!
June 9, 2014
I adore this book. I know it will be a re read for me. It is rare when I read a book and the two leading characters engage me so thoroughly. Jesse was the perfect blend of vulnerability and strength, compassion and sexiness. I really enjoyed that she was smart and realized Tony was a plant to find out about her business. Loved her steadiness in the face of being spied upon, and her determination to have a better life. Tony was also charming and a straight shooter to a point..but just enough for me. Handsome, dashing....and honorable despite working for the Feds. Jessie and Tony attraction was palpable and I really liked that. Most of all I enjoyed the hint of suspense,fear, and revelation waiting to happen among the fun and games. This made it a quick read for me without ever being bored.
The setting! superbly done without overshadowing the heart of the story! Kudos to the author. When the book ended I wanted more and that is always a brilliant thing. I recommend without reservation to romance readers :)
The setting! superbly done without overshadowing the heart of the story! Kudos to the author. When the book ended I wanted more and that is always a brilliant thing. I recommend without reservation to romance readers :)
August 12, 2014
Whether you love all things 20s or have never given the era a second thought, you MUST read this book. Ms. McLean's ability to draw the reader in is particularly impressive considering the extent to which the setting has been romanticized by film. I love Rumrunner's version, where the sultry, sexy vibe is alive and well, but then we get to see what's behind the scenes. That's perhaps the most unique aspect of this book--it has an authentic feel that draws the characters off the page...not so much into the reader's world, but to welcome the reader into theirs. And oh, what a place to be. Oh, THE FEELS. The romance was sweet and to die for. The ending was...sigh. The HEA was utterly delicious and then the heroine did this THING for someone close to the hero and OMG I cried like a baby. My husband was giving me the side-eye but I just didn't care. It was a beautiful moment that just made an already amazing book unforgettable. Romancing the Rumrunner earns an easy 5 stars that puts this author on my auto-buy list. Definitely give this one a chance!
July 17, 2014
This story was written around the time when liquor was against the law. People still wanted it, was making it, and selling it illegally. Jessie was trying to make things work after her father died and had to payback his debts. Her father used to make rum before it was illegal, so she had found his stash and decided the way to keep herself and the butcher shop afloat was to start up a speakeasy. Tony used to be a cop but a tragic mistake took it all away. Now the Feds are wanting him to help catch someone but in order to do that they want him to get close to Jessie. He doesn't want to do that but the money is good and he's hoping they are wrong about her.
The book was a little slow to get into, but about half way things started to pick up and it was better. The characters were easy to relate to, the flow of the book was good, it just was drawn out a little to much in the beginning. Overall a good book.
The book was a little slow to get into, but about half way things started to pick up and it was better. The characters were easy to relate to, the flow of the book was good, it just was drawn out a little to much in the beginning. Overall a good book.
May 20, 2014
I absolutely adored this book! The characters, the plot, the setting, the romance--it all blended into an amazing story that I simply couldn't put down. The writing was superb, engaging, and completely perfect. I haven't enjoyed a book this much in a long while--it earned every one of its five stars. Ms. McLean nailed the era, drawing me in with her rich descriptions and enthralling hero and heroine. I will definitely be re-reading Romancing the Rumrunner and can't recommend it high enough! READ THIS BOOK!!!
June 12, 2014
Romancing The Rumrunner by Michelle McLean was both an entertaining read and a read that had lots of chemistry and sizzle between the characters. Jessie and Tony's story flowed well throughout the book. Both characters aligned well, but both having their own agenda's in the story, with some powerful showdowns and surprises.
The story was intriguing, the characters both comical and dramatic throughout the book, and their escapades kept the reader immersed in the book.
4 Stars
*ARC Received from the Publisher for an honest review.
The story was intriguing, the characters both comical and dramatic throughout the book, and their escapades kept the reader immersed in the book.
4 Stars
*ARC Received from the Publisher for an honest review.
August 16, 2014
I loved it so much! I have a weakness for the 20s so I was excited to dive into this world. Jessie and Tony were super cute together. I can't wait to read more of Michelle's books. Jessie and Tony's relationship was kind of like a tease. They were smart enough to know that the other person was up to something but they couldn't help but like each other. Their passion boiled close to the surface but before it could explode they would retreat back to their corners. For more of my thoughts go to http://writerlyobsession.wordpress.com
October 8, 2014
This is the first romance I've read in this time period (prohibition-era) and I wasn't disappointed. Michelle McLean does a great job crafting sympathetic, dynamic characters in Jessie and Tony as well as an interesting story line in an underused era to go along with them. Her writing style reads effortlessly, like a conversation between friends. All in all, an enjoyable, fast-paced love story.
May 18, 2014
3,5/5
L'ambiance et le contexte sont bien recréés, les personnages sont sympathiques, c'est une bien jolie histoire.
Avis complet
L'ambiance et le contexte sont bien recréés, les personnages sont sympathiques, c'est une bien jolie histoire.
Avis complet
February 13, 2016
I thought the author did a good job writing this book. The book set in the 1920s, was suspenseful and kept me wanting to read more. I felt the ending (the last chapter) could have been a little stronger (very predictable), however the story was great!
May 31, 2014
first book I've read in the prohibition era and I really liked it.
May 31, 2014
I read an earlier copy of this book. It's Michelle McLean's best book yet! If you loved her other books, you'll definitely want to read this one.
Read
June 10, 2014just dull
June 12, 2014
Wonderful! Review to come..
September 21, 2014
To be reviewed on The Good, The Bad, and the Unread.
August 12, 2015
Couldn't put it down! Such a pleasure dropping into the riproaring 20s! Reviewed for BTSeMag.
May 30, 2014
Review to come June 1st.
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