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Love and Law #1
Barring Complications: The Love and Law Series, Book 1
It's an open secret that the newest justice on the Supreme Court is a lesbian. So when the Court decides to hear a case about gay marriage, Justice Victoria Willoughby must navigate the press, sway at least one of her conservative colleagues, and confront her own fraught feelings about coming out.
Just when she decides she's up to the challenge, she learns that the very brilliant, very out Genevieve Fornier will be lead counsel on the case.
Genevieve isn't sure which is causing her more sleepless the prospect of losing the case, or the thought of who will be sitting on the bench when she argues it.
Contains mature themes.
Just when she decides she's up to the challenge, she learns that the very brilliant, very out Genevieve Fornier will be lead counsel on the case.
Genevieve isn't sure which is causing her more sleepless the prospect of losing the case, or the thought of who will be sitting on the bench when she argues it.
Contains mature themes.
Audible Audio
First published September 30, 2014
28 people are currently reading
526 people want to read
About the author
Blythe Rippon
12 books64 followersBlythe Rippon holds a PhD in the humanities and currently teaches writing to undergraduates. Until now, her publishing has been of the academic variety. When not grading papers or imagining plots for future novels, she is usually holding forth about the political injustice of the day, hiking, or experimenting in the kitchen. She has lived all over the United States and at present can be found in the San Francisco Bay Area, where she lives with her wife and children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
August 15, 2017
Amazing read! a gifted writer with intellectual information and a wealth of knowledge in the judiciary system & Law plus college/campus activism has written one of the best books that i have come across..this had a nice love story told of their ups and downs,plus the difficulty of being in a relationship while not being out..good storytelling and likable characters,great chemistry..the author did a great job with their POV's..back and forth between both of them,good! (paperback!)
April 23, 2017
I have had my eye on this book for a while. I love books on judges, and make that a Supreme Court Justice, yes please. With book 2 Benched, just coming out, it gave me the reason to finally put this on my to read now list, and I'm glad I did. This was a good read and definitely enjoyable.
This was a slow moving romance about a new Supreme Court Justice Victoria and a lawyer Genevieve. Genevieve and Victoria were lovers in college, but after a bad break-up, they have not seen each other since. When the important case of the government recognizing gay marriage, puts these two women together again, feelings are still there. Is that enough for a chance at a relationship, or will history stop them from being together?
I found the first part of this book to be really interesting. I loved the behind the scenes of the court and what lawyers and the judges go through. The second half of the book was Victoria and Genevieve working on a potential relationship, with even a little excitement thrown in. There was plenty to keep my attention, and I could not help but really enjoy the overly sweet HEA.
I am going to read Benched shortly, but am a little worried because I heard it is a bit rocky. Hopefully it can keep up with how enjoyable this book was. If you have any interest in the Supreme Court and like a sweet romance, this book is for you.
This was a slow moving romance about a new Supreme Court Justice Victoria and a lawyer Genevieve. Genevieve and Victoria were lovers in college, but after a bad break-up, they have not seen each other since. When the important case of the government recognizing gay marriage, puts these two women together again, feelings are still there. Is that enough for a chance at a relationship, or will history stop them from being together?
I found the first part of this book to be really interesting. I loved the behind the scenes of the court and what lawyers and the judges go through. The second half of the book was Victoria and Genevieve working on a potential relationship, with even a little excitement thrown in. There was plenty to keep my attention, and I could not help but really enjoy the overly sweet HEA.
I am going to read Benched shortly, but am a little worried because I heard it is a bit rocky. Hopefully it can keep up with how enjoyable this book was. If you have any interest in the Supreme Court and like a sweet romance, this book is for you.
December 20, 2015
Can I just say how surprised I was at how much I enjoyed this book? I've been avoiding reading Barring Complications assuming it was some dull Grisham-like treatise on marriage equality. Wow, was I wrong.
Instead, Rippon has given us memorable strong and intelligent women, witty dialogue and a collection of secondary characters I won't soon forget. I found myself slowing down my read post resolution of the impressive Supreme Court ruling just to spend more time with Genevieve and Victoria.
Loved it.
Instead, Rippon has given us memorable strong and intelligent women, witty dialogue and a collection of secondary characters I won't soon forget. I found myself slowing down my read post resolution of the impressive Supreme Court ruling just to spend more time with Genevieve and Victoria.
Loved it.
October 14, 2014
There is something about lesfic stories featuring lady lawyers and politicians that I find so fascinating. Is it the power they wield or the power suits they wear? :) Or the fact that their chosen profession is one of the most conservative? A president Madam President, a mayor Conservative Affairs, a congresswoman Love is Enough, and now..a Supreme Court justice. May the list never end!
Victoria Willoughby, the youngest and newest member of the US Supreme Court court, gets a possibly once-in-a-lifetime chance to decide on one of the most momentous and contentious issues that has been brought before it--the constitutionality of the banning of same-sex marriage. Unlike the other justices, Victoria just may have a personal stake in the ruling--she is rumored to be a lesbian. The lead counsel arguing against the government is Genevieve Fornier--out and proud, and very distracting.
This is a good example of a believable fictionalization of a historical event. We get a sneak peek into the inner workings of the Supreme Court and the intriguing politics and strategizing behind court decisions. The legalese is layman-friendly. No mass info-dumps either. There was just enough tension and excitement to elevate this to a legal-thriller status.
The romance is also well done...for the most part. Their first intimate scene together is one of tamest (in terms of word usage) yet one of the sexiest in recent memory. There is some attempt at suspense but it is not very well developed and ended up pretty much a plot device for the romantic subplot, which dominated the last third of the book. Unfortunately, this is also the weakest part.
Still, this is a very good first effort. A enjoyable page-turner from the first page to the last.
4.5 stars
Victoria Willoughby, the youngest and newest member of the US Supreme Court court, gets a possibly once-in-a-lifetime chance to decide on one of the most momentous and contentious issues that has been brought before it--the constitutionality of the banning of same-sex marriage. Unlike the other justices, Victoria just may have a personal stake in the ruling--she is rumored to be a lesbian. The lead counsel arguing against the government is Genevieve Fornier--out and proud, and very distracting.
This is a good example of a believable fictionalization of a historical event. We get a sneak peek into the inner workings of the Supreme Court and the intriguing politics and strategizing behind court decisions. The legalese is layman-friendly. No mass info-dumps either. There was just enough tension and excitement to elevate this to a legal-thriller status.
The romance is also well done...for the most part. Their first intimate scene together is one of tamest (in terms of word usage) yet one of the sexiest in recent memory. There is some attempt at suspense but it is not very well developed and ended up pretty much a plot device for the romantic subplot, which dominated the last third of the book. Unfortunately, this is also the weakest part.
Still, this is a very good first effort. A enjoyable page-turner from the first page to the last.
4.5 stars
August 9, 2018
Where have you been, all my life?
Gosh this was soooo good. Idk what appels to me more, women in power or one-that-got-away reunion.
It could both, and this book is the perfect mix of that. The heavy subject made the storyline a whole lot interesting. I was sweep off of my feet from the very few first pages.
Rippon wrote with 2 pov of the protagonist, the changes from one to another didn't disturb the flow. It was flowing naturally and beautifully.
The pent up affection from Vee and Tori were very lovely. You could felt their attraction from one another lol.
Nice book. Solid 5 star from me.
Gosh this was soooo good. Idk what appels to me more, women in power or one-that-got-away reunion.
It could both, and this book is the perfect mix of that. The heavy subject made the storyline a whole lot interesting. I was sweep off of my feet from the very few first pages.
Rippon wrote with 2 pov of the protagonist, the changes from one to another didn't disturb the flow. It was flowing naturally and beautifully.
The pent up affection from Vee and Tori were very lovely. You could felt their attraction from one another lol.
Nice book. Solid 5 star from me.
June 19, 2016
4.5 stars
DOMA is headed to the Supreme Court and Justice Victoria Willoughby isn't looking forward to it. It's an open secret that she's a lesbian, but questions are coming from many about whether she should recuse herself--including from a reporter who repeatedly manages to get in touch via her private number.
Tori doesn't expect that the lead counsel for the two couples who want their marriages recognized in all states is none other than Genevieve Fornier, her old college girlfriend. Genevieve is out and has been all along, but seeing each other brings up more than a few memories for both, making it clear that they have unfinished business.
Barring Complications is so good, I can't believe it's the author's first published novel. Despite me generally not enjoying books that rely heavily on flashbacks, this one worked well for me, including the flashbacks. A lot of the romance development happens in the flashbacks and is completed in the present, where they can have their HEA. That said, I'm reluctant to call the book a romance novel; there's romance there and it's satisfying, but it reads more like general fiction with romantic elements.
While I liked and appreciated Stowe Away, I loved Barring Complications. I can't wait to see what else Blythe Rippon has in store for us.
DOMA is headed to the Supreme Court and Justice Victoria Willoughby isn't looking forward to it. It's an open secret that she's a lesbian, but questions are coming from many about whether she should recuse herself--including from a reporter who repeatedly manages to get in touch via her private number.
Tori doesn't expect that the lead counsel for the two couples who want their marriages recognized in all states is none other than Genevieve Fornier, her old college girlfriend. Genevieve is out and has been all along, but seeing each other brings up more than a few memories for both, making it clear that they have unfinished business.
Barring Complications is so good, I can't believe it's the author's first published novel. Despite me generally not enjoying books that rely heavily on flashbacks, this one worked well for me, including the flashbacks. A lot of the romance development happens in the flashbacks and is completed in the present, where they can have their HEA. That said, I'm reluctant to call the book a romance novel; there's romance there and it's satisfying, but it reads more like general fiction with romantic elements.
While I liked and appreciated Stowe Away, I loved Barring Complications. I can't wait to see what else Blythe Rippon has in store for us.
December 29, 2017
Very well written and lots of angst. This would be a great one to listen to on my commute. Couldn't put it down.
March 31, 2017
Excellent
This was one of the first lesbian novels I ever read and was stunned by its quality. Yes I was naive and was totally unaware of the talent that had escaped me to date. The standard of writing is excellent, and the writing style is so fluid you can't put it down. My dogs will swear under oath on this with their legs crossed. Bad image I know. I've reread this book because Blythe Rippon has a second book coming out and I wanted to re - acquaint myself with the characters.
I was not disappointed. Back then I didn't leave reviews because why would anyone care. Ok, I was wrong. This book is seriously good with one small exception, the end was kinda rushed. The two lead characters come together after twenty years apart. Just thought there would be more to their ultimate reunion. Also, if your into sex scenes this isn't for you.
The author captures you from the first to the last word. There are some remembering moments but they are more for information. They let you understand the two lead characters history. Oh and I loved Douglas and his wise sayings. The sibling banter brought a few good memories too.
I gave it 5 stars despite being disappointed with the reunion because I felt the book in itself was excellent and really well written. I really enjoyed the book and even started to understand the justice system. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
This was one of the first lesbian novels I ever read and was stunned by its quality. Yes I was naive and was totally unaware of the talent that had escaped me to date. The standard of writing is excellent, and the writing style is so fluid you can't put it down. My dogs will swear under oath on this with their legs crossed. Bad image I know. I've reread this book because Blythe Rippon has a second book coming out and I wanted to re - acquaint myself with the characters.
I was not disappointed. Back then I didn't leave reviews because why would anyone care. Ok, I was wrong. This book is seriously good with one small exception, the end was kinda rushed. The two lead characters come together after twenty years apart. Just thought there would be more to their ultimate reunion. Also, if your into sex scenes this isn't for you.
The author captures you from the first to the last word. There are some remembering moments but they are more for information. They let you understand the two lead characters history. Oh and I loved Douglas and his wise sayings. The sibling banter brought a few good memories too.
I gave it 5 stars despite being disappointed with the reunion because I felt the book in itself was excellent and really well written. I really enjoyed the book and even started to understand the justice system. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
March 21, 2023
I liked this story so much! First released in 2014, it's the story of Victoria Willoughby, the newest justice on the U.S. Supreme Court who is about to hear a case about same sex marriage. While most assume she is a lesbian, she's never officially come out. The press ruthlessly pursues her on the matter and openly wonder if she should recuse herself from the case.
But that isn't the greatest challenge she's facing. The lead counsel on the case is Genevieve Fornier, her very out former Harvard Law classmate she was once in love with that she's been out of contact with for years. Genevieve is a brilliant litigator, passionate about the case. But as confident as she is in her abilities, she can't help but be nervous about arguing it in front of the woman who once shattered her heart.
I didn't read the book when it was released in 2014 and believe I would have liked the written version more than this audiobook release. And that was strictly due to the narration by Samantha Cook. While her narration skills were fine in general, her voice for Genevieve was very distracting. She attempted to pronounce Genevieve in the French way, but didn't quite get there and the character was supposed to have a slight French accent and almost never did. I wish she had either pronounced her name the American way and not attempted an accent, or pronounced the name correctly in the French way and kept a consistent accent throughout the book. Every time she said "Genevieve" - and it was a lot - I cringed. Too bad - because I liked it a lot otherwise.
I think I'll pick up the ebook down the road. I loved the characters and premise. This would have been 4.5 stars if not for the narration.
But that isn't the greatest challenge she's facing. The lead counsel on the case is Genevieve Fornier, her very out former Harvard Law classmate she was once in love with that she's been out of contact with for years. Genevieve is a brilliant litigator, passionate about the case. But as confident as she is in her abilities, she can't help but be nervous about arguing it in front of the woman who once shattered her heart.
I didn't read the book when it was released in 2014 and believe I would have liked the written version more than this audiobook release. And that was strictly due to the narration by Samantha Cook. While her narration skills were fine in general, her voice for Genevieve was very distracting. She attempted to pronounce Genevieve in the French way, but didn't quite get there and the character was supposed to have a slight French accent and almost never did. I wish she had either pronounced her name the American way and not attempted an accent, or pronounced the name correctly in the French way and kept a consistent accent throughout the book. Every time she said "Genevieve" - and it was a lot - I cringed. Too bad - because I liked it a lot otherwise.
I think I'll pick up the ebook down the road. I loved the characters and premise. This would have been 4.5 stars if not for the narration.
October 4, 2016
In 2010, a specific case came before a California district court – a case focused on California’s Proposition 8. In attendance was a specific individual without legal training, though with a graduate degree. Four years later, a book appeared titled ‘Barring Complications.’ That book was about a fight before the U.S. Supreme Court that argued the constitutionality of DOMA (Defense of Marriage Act).
On that Supreme Court was a specific justice, the ‘newest’ justice on the bench. Rumors float about her, but she’s never confirmed these rumors – that she’s a lesbian. This would be Justice Victoria Willoughby. Something like 20 years before the start of this book, this same woman attended a specific law school – at which school she developed a relationship with one Genevieve Fornier.
Then and now, Genevieve was an out and proud lesbian. At the time, Victoria wasn’t. And, as already noted, Victoria’s orientation isn’t exactly known now either. Still, they had a connection and both wished to be in a relationship.
Then Genevieve sent in a particular letter to the editor about a specific incident – including words indicating something along the lines of ‘as a lesbian myself I . . .’. Genevieve was quite happy with herself. And saw a bright future. Victoria did not see things the same way.
It took me 3 or 4 days to get around to writing something in the review box, and I come up with this here. Well, it was a thought I had while reading the book. I read this book because it looked interesting and because 15 days before I started it, I’d read a book that involved an attempt to put a lesbian law school dean onto the Supreme Court (Carsen Taite’s ‘Courtship’). And here we had a lesbian Supreme Court justice hearing a case on the Supreme Court. Seemed fitting and linked somehow.
Hmm. A fire has broken out in my building so I’ll have to depart for now.
October 4 2016
On that Supreme Court was a specific justice, the ‘newest’ justice on the bench. Rumors float about her, but she’s never confirmed these rumors – that she’s a lesbian. This would be Justice Victoria Willoughby. Something like 20 years before the start of this book, this same woman attended a specific law school – at which school she developed a relationship with one Genevieve Fornier.
Then and now, Genevieve was an out and proud lesbian. At the time, Victoria wasn’t. And, as already noted, Victoria’s orientation isn’t exactly known now either. Still, they had a connection and both wished to be in a relationship.
Then Genevieve sent in a particular letter to the editor about a specific incident – including words indicating something along the lines of ‘as a lesbian myself I . . .’. Genevieve was quite happy with herself. And saw a bright future. Victoria did not see things the same way.
It took me 3 or 4 days to get around to writing something in the review box, and I come up with this here. Well, it was a thought I had while reading the book. I read this book because it looked interesting and because 15 days before I started it, I’d read a book that involved an attempt to put a lesbian law school dean onto the Supreme Court (Carsen Taite’s ‘Courtship’). And here we had a lesbian Supreme Court justice hearing a case on the Supreme Court. Seemed fitting and linked somehow.
Hmm. A fire has broken out in my building so I’ll have to depart for now.
October 4 2016
February 2, 2015
I've got to say I really enjoyed the writing and overall story of this book. It was well-edited, polished and impressively researched, which I hugely appreciate. The story surrounds the attempted defeat of DOMA by the presentation of a case to the Supreme Court, which holds Victoria (Tori) Willoughby as one of the newest Justices to take the high court. She is a closeted lesbian, although many have suspect her homosexuality for years. Things get a bit complicated with the introduction of the prosecution, a flame from Tori's past named Genevieve (Vee) Fornier. They parted as they took two different courses in their lives. Genevieve chose to be open about her sexuality from the start, fighting for LGBT rights throughout her career. Tori chose to reject their relationship (and her feelings) in order to stay on course with her lofty career goals. Both women got the careers they wanted, but at the expense of something that "might have been."
As I stated, the research on this book is top notch. So much attention to detail gave me quite an outlook on the judicial system in a believable way, and the author should be applauded for her ability to educate the reader without boring them with legal jargon. The characterizations were excellent, and I really cared about the protagonists, wanting them to be successful both in their careers and out of them. The last third of the book dragged a bit for me, but it wasn't because it was uninteresting, I just found it to be a bit unbelievable. So much attention is paid to the two women's feelings in the past, and their yearning for each other, that the resolution of their relationship (and any associated scandal) feels kind of hurried and under-developed. It didn't make me dislike the book at all, it just left me a little bit disappointed.
However, the secondary characters (who are DELIGHTFULLY snarky and adorable) really made me fall in love with them. The humorous interactions gave me insight into Tori and Vee's personalities and were a breath of fresh air.
So overall, if you're looking for a romance that focuses primarily on the getting together of two women, you might be disappointed in this one. However, if you're looking for a really interesting take on the judicial system with a little bit of love on the side and likable characters, you'd do well to pick this one up.
As I stated, the research on this book is top notch. So much attention to detail gave me quite an outlook on the judicial system in a believable way, and the author should be applauded for her ability to educate the reader without boring them with legal jargon. The characterizations were excellent, and I really cared about the protagonists, wanting them to be successful both in their careers and out of them. The last third of the book dragged a bit for me, but it wasn't because it was uninteresting, I just found it to be a bit unbelievable. So much attention is paid to the two women's feelings in the past, and their yearning for each other, that the resolution of their relationship (and any associated scandal) feels kind of hurried and under-developed. It didn't make me dislike the book at all, it just left me a little bit disappointed.
However, the secondary characters (who are DELIGHTFULLY snarky and adorable) really made me fall in love with them. The humorous interactions gave me insight into Tori and Vee's personalities and were a breath of fresh air.
So overall, if you're looking for a romance that focuses primarily on the getting together of two women, you might be disappointed in this one. However, if you're looking for a really interesting take on the judicial system with a little bit of love on the side and likable characters, you'd do well to pick this one up.
August 14, 2017
I loved this book but there was just something missing, I loved the whole fight for marriage for gays and lesbians. And I loved seeing the characters past. But still there was just something missing, but I can't put my finger on it
November 25, 2014
I greatly enjoyed this romance set against the background of the US Supreme Court and the case to legalize gay marriage on a federal level. I'm a bit of a law geek, and there was sufficient background and detail to satisfy my geeky soul without overwhelming or bogging down the story.
Tori and Genevieve made a believable couple, and I particularly liked the descriptions of their non-verbal communication when they weren't allowed to talk due to the case hearing. Supporting characters were great (I particularly liked Bethany).
The book is knocked down from 5 stars for me because of the quick turnaround between Tori and Genevieve once the case was over. The characters' transition from serious and quiet to sparky and playful seemed quite abrupt. I still enjoyed their story, loved the good writing, but it lost a smidge from the overall arc of the story for this.
An excellent story, and I'll be looking for more from Blythe Rippon.
Tori and Genevieve made a believable couple, and I particularly liked the descriptions of their non-verbal communication when they weren't allowed to talk due to the case hearing. Supporting characters were great (I particularly liked Bethany).
The book is knocked down from 5 stars for me because of the quick turnaround between Tori and Genevieve once the case was over. The characters' transition from serious and quiet to sparky and playful seemed quite abrupt. I still enjoyed their story, loved the good writing, but it lost a smidge from the overall arc of the story for this.
An excellent story, and I'll be looking for more from Blythe Rippon.
January 30, 2015
To call Blythe Rippon the John Grisham of lesbian fiction would be a travesty. She is the author that would be created if John Grisham and the Bronte sisters had a little lesbian author baby. Riveting prose. Addictive characters. The love story you always wished you had.
June 7, 2015
I like how the book keeps moving forward though it alternate between two characters. Smooth writing with almost no sex scenes yet succinctly romantic and sexy.
July 1, 2017
This is a great legal drama, which provided an insight into the working of the US Supreme Court. There is also some romance thrown into the midst of the story. A perfect combination for a weekend reading :)
September 28, 2014
I like that the focus of the book is split between the supreme court case and the relationship between Genevieve and Victoria. Flashbacks are pretty minimal, there's a bit of a mystery (a little bit), and some humor (which I didn't expect).
I thought it was well written and interesting and I think most of my friends who share my reading tastes will like it, too.
I thought it was well written and interesting and I think most of my friends who share my reading tastes will like it, too.
March 5, 2015
I enjoyed every single page of this book. It is definitely a great read.
December 28, 2019
A wonderful book to read with real characters and dialogues. Plus a story to keep the reader alert. Loving it and looking forward to read the next book.
October 29, 2023
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this very engaging courtroom drama
Justice Victoria Willoughby is where she always dreamed she would be on the supreme court bench, it had been her dream for years
Genevieve Fornier is also at the top of her game and she is bringing a case to be heard by the supreme court justices about gay marriage
with speculation on willoughby sexuality and genevieve out there campaign the press are dying to know if sparks will fly between these two
entertaining read with insights into the supreme court and how some things play out in the court room
Justice Victoria Willoughby is where she always dreamed she would be on the supreme court bench, it had been her dream for years
Genevieve Fornier is also at the top of her game and she is bringing a case to be heard by the supreme court justices about gay marriage
with speculation on willoughby sexuality and genevieve out there campaign the press are dying to know if sparks will fly between these two
entertaining read with insights into the supreme court and how some things play out in the court room
August 7, 2019
The longing and tension between Tori and Vee throughout case, and then the bittersweet flashbacks makes for an exciting and heartfelt read. Both strong women, vulnerable on their own and to each other are amazing together. The morning after Tori's attack was by far my favourite moment in the book, with both their closest friends and family inviting themselves into Vee's home and taking up their time. It was cute.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. I liked how much of it was devoted to details around the court and the case, with a slower development to the romance side of things. I also really liked both main characters, and felt that they had unique character traits, flaws, and things that set them apart. Overall a really good read
March 10, 2015
Going back and forth between 3 and 4 stars...
Lovely story, I really liked the focus on the Supreme Court proceedings that was pretty much equally shared by focus on the romance aspect of the story.
I don't think the flashbacks added anything to the story at all and I could have done without them and the end fell kind of flat to me, but I can't really say I have other complaints. I liked the characters, some of the second tier felt a bit cliche, Victoria's family is adorable.
Lovely story, I really liked the focus on the Supreme Court proceedings that was pretty much equally shared by focus on the romance aspect of the story.
I don't think the flashbacks added anything to the story at all and I could have done without them and the end fell kind of flat to me, but I can't really say I have other complaints. I liked the characters, some of the second tier felt a bit cliche, Victoria's family is adorable.
January 21, 2015
I enjoyed this book, it was an engaging fun read. It also didn't feel like a typical romance because of the legal issues and how those were handled within the story. To that end I especially enjoyed the interactions between Alistair and Victoria.
There were also several places that made me laugh out loud, between Bethany, Genevieve, Victoria, and Victoria's brother.
There were also several places that made me laugh out loud, between Bethany, Genevieve, Victoria, and Victoria's brother.
January 28, 2016
3 1/2 stars
Thought the first part of the book was a bit slow and too much law and not so much romance, but overall a good read.
Thought the first part of the book was a bit slow and too much law and not so much romance, but overall a good read.
September 17, 2023
Great kickoff to legal romance series
I read Barring Complications for the first time when it was published in 2014 but didn't review it. I read and reviewed its sequel Benched when it was published in 2017 but didn't remember anything about Barring Complications when I wrote that review. Now I've reread Barring Complications cold (no synopsis reading beforehand or strong memories) only knowing it had something to do with the US Supreme Court.
As expected, there are politics in the story and scenes taking the reader thru trial preparations for the lawyers and the SCOTUS justices along with the courtroom dramas; if you're a big fan of those types of tv shows you'll love when the story gets into the weeds of the legal system etc. The romance features women over forty, established in their careers, with flashbacks to their first meeting and getting to know each other time in law school; the story shifts between Genevieve's and Victoria's point of view in the past and present day complete with their biases and sometimes false assumptions. The entire story is a rollercoaster for the emotions and has plenty of humor and drama, a cast of secondary characters who are scene stealers and so easy to imagine in real life. Despite the age of the book, many issues addressed in it are still relevant in the present day. Barring Complications and Benched make a great mini series for lovers of legal and political romances and dramas and I recommend them both. If author Blythe Rippon publishes another book in this series or a separate work on another topic in the future I'll happily read it.
If you're interested in the full series, do read the books in order of publication and as close to back to back as possible so details are fresh in mind and you can more fully appreciate the development of the characters and hang out in the world they inhabit for a longer stretch of time. It may not be fully escapist reading but it is entertaining and page turning, often riveting, as good storytelling ought to be.
I read Barring Complications for the first time when it was published in 2014 but didn't review it. I read and reviewed its sequel Benched when it was published in 2017 but didn't remember anything about Barring Complications when I wrote that review. Now I've reread Barring Complications cold (no synopsis reading beforehand or strong memories) only knowing it had something to do with the US Supreme Court.
As expected, there are politics in the story and scenes taking the reader thru trial preparations for the lawyers and the SCOTUS justices along with the courtroom dramas; if you're a big fan of those types of tv shows you'll love when the story gets into the weeds of the legal system etc. The romance features women over forty, established in their careers, with flashbacks to their first meeting and getting to know each other time in law school; the story shifts between Genevieve's and Victoria's point of view in the past and present day complete with their biases and sometimes false assumptions. The entire story is a rollercoaster for the emotions and has plenty of humor and drama, a cast of secondary characters who are scene stealers and so easy to imagine in real life. Despite the age of the book, many issues addressed in it are still relevant in the present day. Barring Complications and Benched make a great mini series for lovers of legal and political romances and dramas and I recommend them both. If author Blythe Rippon publishes another book in this series or a separate work on another topic in the future I'll happily read it.
If you're interested in the full series, do read the books in order of publication and as close to back to back as possible so details are fresh in mind and you can more fully appreciate the development of the characters and hang out in the world they inhabit for a longer stretch of time. It may not be fully escapist reading but it is entertaining and page turning, often riveting, as good storytelling ought to be.
April 9, 2023
Barring Complications by Blythe Rippon, narrated by Samantha Cook
I originally read this book close to its release date in 2014 and I still remember some of the scenes. There’s something to be said for women in positions of power and this story features a lesbian Supreme Court member.
This book focuses on the fictional case of the Supreme Court repeal of the Defence of Marriage Act (though loosely based in real life). It shows the process from within the Supreme Court, the internal divisions between liberals and conservatives, and part of the legal process to repeal DOMA. I though this was the best part of the book though I would have loved to learn a bit more on how was the process to write the judgement (but that’s me being a nerd, possibly in the minority here).
The romance was a bit disappointing as in most of the book the characters aren’t in contact with each other for legal reasons. However, as this is a second-chance romance, there is some romance in the form of flashbacks to their college past. I thought that the resolution of the romance conflict in the present was a bit rushed and one of the leads seem to act a bit out of character, so for me it wasn’t convincing enough. As this is book one of a series (Law and Love), I’m hoping that book two (Benched) will correct that, I’m waiting for its release on audio.
The audiobook version of this book was read by Samantha Cook. I found that her voices for the main characters were too similar (or at least they sounded to me) but apart from that, the narration was satisfactory. 3.5 stars.
Length: 8 hrs and 49 mins
Available in Scribd
I originally read this book close to its release date in 2014 and I still remember some of the scenes. There’s something to be said for women in positions of power and this story features a lesbian Supreme Court member.
This book focuses on the fictional case of the Supreme Court repeal of the Defence of Marriage Act (though loosely based in real life). It shows the process from within the Supreme Court, the internal divisions between liberals and conservatives, and part of the legal process to repeal DOMA. I though this was the best part of the book though I would have loved to learn a bit more on how was the process to write the judgement (but that’s me being a nerd, possibly in the minority here).
The romance was a bit disappointing as in most of the book the characters aren’t in contact with each other for legal reasons. However, as this is a second-chance romance, there is some romance in the form of flashbacks to their college past. I thought that the resolution of the romance conflict in the present was a bit rushed and one of the leads seem to act a bit out of character, so for me it wasn’t convincing enough. As this is book one of a series (Law and Love), I’m hoping that book two (Benched) will correct that, I’m waiting for its release on audio.
The audiobook version of this book was read by Samantha Cook. I found that her voices for the main characters were too similar (or at least they sounded to me) but apart from that, the narration was satisfactory. 3.5 stars.
Length: 8 hrs and 49 mins
Available in Scribd
May 12, 2017
Actual Rating: 3.5
This is a difficult book for me to rate. I breezed through it in 3 days because I love seeing unabashedly powerful, strong and ambitious women working to get what they want. The dialogue and interactions were extremely witty and well written. Reading Rippon's language is truly a pleasure. She is clearly very talented in her craft. I say this because I feel many of the contemporary authors concentrate so much on the plot that they overlook the craft of writing. The result is an interesting plot with lackluster language. Not so here. The plot was fast paced, and the language effortlessly beautiful. What I found detracted from the novel was the plot device of two lovers who broke up not being able to move on for twenty something years. I do not find it romantic to be hung up on someone for twenty years. People are supposed to move on and find someone else. I just wanted to scream "get over it!"This is a relatively inconsequential aspect of the story to pick on, but it just detracted from the strength of the writing. If I knew beforehand that they were once lovers, I might not have read it. All in all, it was an entertaining read. I encourage anyone who is interested in women in power to read the book.
This is a difficult book for me to rate. I breezed through it in 3 days because I love seeing unabashedly powerful, strong and ambitious women working to get what they want. The dialogue and interactions were extremely witty and well written. Reading Rippon's language is truly a pleasure. She is clearly very talented in her craft. I say this because I feel many of the contemporary authors concentrate so much on the plot that they overlook the craft of writing. The result is an interesting plot with lackluster language. Not so here. The plot was fast paced, and the language effortlessly beautiful. What I found detracted from the novel was the plot device of two lovers who broke up not being able to move on for twenty something years. I do not find it romantic to be hung up on someone for twenty years. People are supposed to move on and find someone else. I just wanted to scream "get over it!"This is a relatively inconsequential aspect of the story to pick on, but it just detracted from the strength of the writing. If I knew beforehand that they were once lovers, I might not have read it. All in all, it was an entertaining read. I encourage anyone who is interested in women in power to read the book.
September 14, 2021
I really love reading books based around legal issues or legal drama and I loved the intricacies bought out by Rippon via this fictionalised DOMA court case. From reading the blurb, I didn't realise this was a second chance romance but I think it fit well within this book, mainly because the flashbacks to their college time together gave the story a bit of levity. Although I'm not typically a fan of flashbacks, I think in this scenario they were necessary but also utilised very well. I enjoyed getting to know Tori and Genevieve as two late-forties, professionals but also as two young lovebirds as well.
Although I really enjoyed this novel, I was a bit disappointed by Genevieve's very quick forgiveness of Tori. I really don't want to spoil anything so I won't say more, but for me this wasn't quite resolved by the time they got together. Also, after 2o years apart, I think it would've been a bit more realistic if they spent time getting to reacquaint themselves before embarking on a fully-fledged relationship. This just might be my logical brain talking here though!
Still, a great book and I'm intrigued by the sequel.
Although I really enjoyed this novel, I was a bit disappointed by Genevieve's very quick forgiveness of Tori. I really don't want to spoil anything so I won't say more, but for me this wasn't quite resolved by the time they got together. Also, after 2o years apart, I think it would've been a bit more realistic if they spent time getting to reacquaint themselves before embarking on a fully-fledged relationship. This just might be my logical brain talking here though!
Still, a great book and I'm intrigued by the sequel.
February 18, 2025
This was an interesting twist on the lesbian romance genre, as it combined your standard romance plot with a parallel plot about the U.S. Supreme Court and gay marriage.
Justice Victoria Willoughby is the newest member of the Supreme Court. She’s a lesbian, but she’s closeted. Her public and private lives clash when the court accepts a gay marriage case, and it’s being argued by her old Harvard classmate Genevieve Fornier, an out-and-proud lesbian.
I guess that eight years ago, when this book came out, it wasn’t too far-fetched to think that there could be an open lesbian on the U.S. Supreme Court. And that she could contemplate an open relationship with a gay-rights attorney. Now, of course, with the clock spinning backwards at a frenetic pace, this premise seems ludicrous. As does the idea that, with gay marriage a fait accompli, anti-discrimination measures to protect trans rights were just around the bend.
Still, you can’t hold it against the author for not being able to predict the future. Overall, it was an enjoyable read and refreshingly different from the strikingly apolitical plot lines of most Sapphic romance.
3.5, rounded up
Justice Victoria Willoughby is the newest member of the Supreme Court. She’s a lesbian, but she’s closeted. Her public and private lives clash when the court accepts a gay marriage case, and it’s being argued by her old Harvard classmate Genevieve Fornier, an out-and-proud lesbian.
I guess that eight years ago, when this book came out, it wasn’t too far-fetched to think that there could be an open lesbian on the U.S. Supreme Court. And that she could contemplate an open relationship with a gay-rights attorney. Now, of course, with the clock spinning backwards at a frenetic pace, this premise seems ludicrous. As does the idea that, with gay marriage a fait accompli, anti-discrimination measures to protect trans rights were just around the bend.
Still, you can’t hold it against the author for not being able to predict the future. Overall, it was an enjoyable read and refreshingly different from the strikingly apolitical plot lines of most Sapphic romance.
3.5, rounded up
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