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Hotel Bombshell #2
Under the Table
One season. Two co-stars. Can they resist their undeniable attraction until they wrap filming?
The last thing Chef Hope Lawrence expected was to have Hotel Bombshell renewed for a second season. But when the unofficial lesbian army of social media got hold of season 1, she couldn’t stop them. Yet with her career and marriage on the line, Hope needs to keep her hands to herself. And she needs to make a her husband or Angelica.
But it’s so damn hard when her co-star is a sexy, confident older woman who not only knows herself, but knows exactly what she wants.
Angelica Shields won’t stand to be pushed around any longer. Leaning into her expertise, Angelica strives to make season 2 even better than season 1. No more letting overbearing producers create drama where there is none. The only problem? Her growing attraction to Hope.
Each time they’re together, she can’t deny the tension.
The desire.
The longing.
All they have to do is make it through twelve weeks of filming. But can they resist temptation? Or will their budding relationship be the downfall of the season?
The last thing Chef Hope Lawrence expected was to have Hotel Bombshell renewed for a second season. But when the unofficial lesbian army of social media got hold of season 1, she couldn’t stop them. Yet with her career and marriage on the line, Hope needs to keep her hands to herself. And she needs to make a her husband or Angelica.
But it’s so damn hard when her co-star is a sexy, confident older woman who not only knows herself, but knows exactly what she wants.
Angelica Shields won’t stand to be pushed around any longer. Leaning into her expertise, Angelica strives to make season 2 even better than season 1. No more letting overbearing producers create drama where there is none. The only problem? Her growing attraction to Hope.
Each time they’re together, she can’t deny the tension.
The desire.
The longing.
All they have to do is make it through twelve weeks of filming. But can they resist temptation? Or will their budding relationship be the downfall of the season?
- GenresLesbianContemporary
432 pages, Paperback
Published October 30, 2025
60 people are currently reading
79 people want to read
About the author
Adrian J. Smith
77 books422 followersAdrian J. Smith has been publishing since 2013 but has been writing nearly her entire life. With a focus on women loving women fiction, AJ jumps genres from action-packed police procedurals to the seedier life of vampires and witches to sweet romances with a May-December twist. She loves writing and reading about women in the midst of the ordinariness of life. Two of her novels, For by Grace and Memoir in the Making, received honorable mentions with the Rainbow Awards.
AJ currently lives in Cheyenne, WY, although she moves often and has lived all over the United States. She loves to travel to different countries and places. She currently plays the roles of author, wife, and mother to two rambunctious kids, occasional handy-woman. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, or her blog.
AJ currently lives in Cheyenne, WY, although she moves often and has lived all over the United States. She loves to travel to different countries and places. She currently plays the roles of author, wife, and mother to two rambunctious kids, occasional handy-woman. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, or her blog.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
November 5, 2025
In many ways, Under the Table, the second course in the Hotel Bombshell series, is even more substantial than the first. It tantalizes with steamy sexual longing between Angelica and Hope then flames out into a passionate yet complicated relationship. The ensuing drama is bursting with emotional tension, not only because of the romance itself but also because of family interference, an overbearing reality show producer, and workplace conflict, including sexual harassment. Readers will be left digesting the heavy mix of interpersonal angst and external pressure for days to come, but it won’t be long before they’re starving for another taste.
November 5, 2025
This is deeper than a casual “third wheel”
Consensual polyamory is one thing; adding another party to an established partnership is quite another. More complex dynamics might cause the cup to runneth over…
This TV series has me in such an analytical mindset!
*Hope (choice)
At the beginning of this book, Hope is still standing at a crossroads in her career and her marriage. Will she end up making out with her boss or making it work with her husband? Will the tension on-screen and off- make the decision for her? Does she end up going with what her heart or what her head tells her? Can she truly have both people? Will being judged for her marital choices drive her closer to Angelica or closer to Rex?
*Angelica (boundaries)
Throughout the book, I feel that Angelica’s behavior towards Hope is a little bit of “do what I say, not what I do”. Do I think she’s acting in a confusing manner or that she is hypocritical? Is she in denial or lying to Hope and staff? Will she get herself into HR Hot Water…again?
*Rex (tension)
Rex’s future is on the line and with some major issues to deal with. Unresolved marital issues, jealousy that his child adores his competition, the show’s stars going off script, etc. I think that his balancing act between wanting to be understanding of his wife’s impulsivity and not wanting to change his wife’s playfulness may have him walking an extremely dangerous tightrope. And then there’s the tension between the two women – in front of him, on-screen, and on social media. Dude’s got a front row seat…with witnesses.
How far does a spouse need to go in order to protect a marriage? Does their joint career come first? How much do they hold back in dealing with adult issues when their daughter is with them? Where does he fit in the decision process?
I could also analyze the improvements for each hotel, but I wanna keep this short. The author set up the scenarios & solutions really well. Just like in real life, there is a lot of stuff going on “behind the scenes” that we either refuse to seek or acknowledge once we know.
Yes, there are times that Angelica gets a wee bit judgmental in how she communicates her opinions of wrongdoings, but her general go-to approach of judging unwanted behaviors is what will make a difference for these businesses.
If the title for next-in-series (‘No Holds Barred’) is any indication of the content, then hotel owners around the country (and perhaps even globally) better up their management game before Judge Angel gets a hold of them!
Consensual polyamory is one thing; adding another party to an established partnership is quite another. More complex dynamics might cause the cup to runneth over…
This TV series has me in such an analytical mindset!
*Hope (choice)
At the beginning of this book, Hope is still standing at a crossroads in her career and her marriage. Will she end up making out with her boss or making it work with her husband? Will the tension on-screen and off- make the decision for her? Does she end up going with what her heart or what her head tells her? Can she truly have both people? Will being judged for her marital choices drive her closer to Angelica or closer to Rex?
*Angelica (boundaries)
Throughout the book, I feel that Angelica’s behavior towards Hope is a little bit of “do what I say, not what I do”. Do I think she’s acting in a confusing manner or that she is hypocritical? Is she in denial or lying to Hope and staff? Will she get herself into HR Hot Water…again?
*Rex (tension)
Rex’s future is on the line and with some major issues to deal with. Unresolved marital issues, jealousy that his child adores his competition, the show’s stars going off script, etc. I think that his balancing act between wanting to be understanding of his wife’s impulsivity and not wanting to change his wife’s playfulness may have him walking an extremely dangerous tightrope. And then there’s the tension between the two women – in front of him, on-screen, and on social media. Dude’s got a front row seat…with witnesses.
How far does a spouse need to go in order to protect a marriage? Does their joint career come first? How much do they hold back in dealing with adult issues when their daughter is with them? Where does he fit in the decision process?
I could also analyze the improvements for each hotel, but I wanna keep this short. The author set up the scenarios & solutions really well. Just like in real life, there is a lot of stuff going on “behind the scenes” that we either refuse to seek or acknowledge once we know.
Yes, there are times that Angelica gets a wee bit judgmental in how she communicates her opinions of wrongdoings, but her general go-to approach of judging unwanted behaviors is what will make a difference for these businesses.
If the title for next-in-series (‘No Holds Barred’) is any indication of the content, then hotel owners around the country (and perhaps even globally) better up their management game before Judge Angel gets a hold of them!
November 8, 2025
It’s was everything I wanted and more. It would have to drop during one of my busiest weeks but I’ve managed to secure my next dose of Angelica and Hope. This romance is non-linear and not rushing this into one or even two books is the real genius move here from Adrian J Smith. There are so many sapphic books that hit the same sore spots, and bumps on the way to a happy ending but this feels like we get to look into their relationship through a x25 zoom lens. And furthermore, I can’t see the path towards any happy ending, I’m just desperate for one which just adds to the storytelling props. Right now, absolutely every relationship in the story is upended and I suppose in the third instalment there’s going to be some serious healing for all parties.
I swear, if Josef is not fired and shamed in book 3 imma be pissed. Such a little leech of a man.
I swear, if Josef is not fired and shamed in book 3 imma be pissed. Such a little leech of a man.
October 12, 2025
I absolutely love this series and this book is even better than the first one! The author once again showcased her masterful skills of storytelling, giving us this ultimate ice queen hotel manager Angelica, her aloof exterior hides the warm, kind and vulnerable heart. She is not supposed to be likable, but I fell hard for her anyway, she evoked my respect and sympathy, I even experienced the heartache for her unrequited love. She is fiercely independent and protective of her people, refuses to bend to her powerful boss, brave and courageous and the ultimate professional in her field with high moral standard. Even her stubbornness and self doubt feel endearment to me. I have never rooted so hard for her happiness with the younger celebrity chef Hope. Like the real soap opera, there is love triangle, and the author carefully painted three full blooded characters that are relatable and distinctive and none of them are simply good or bad. I have mixed feeling for Hope, she is friendly, outgoing, compassionate and a little bit free spirit. She wanted to please the two people she loves and failed both. It is hard to share romantic love, and her indecision at times feels naive and annoying. But I feel the incredible chemistry between the couple and I can't wait for the next book, to find out how the couple reach their sweet happily ever after.
October 13, 2025
Season Two ups the angst and drama on and off camera
Under the Table, Book Two in the Hotel Bombshell series, kicks off in the pre-season for the show's second season and continues thru to its post-season. It's packed with drama, angst, some humor, and plenty of steamy heat; presumably the same elements in actual reality TV shows, but in this case better written and delivered. Complicated relationships and family drama are front and center for this round, with no shortage of hurt feelings, poor communication, hypocrisy and questionable behavior to fuel those fires. The core cast from Culinary Chaos is back along with some of the secondaries you either loved or loved to hate; if book one hooked you this one will pull you in further while potentially messing with your feelings for Hope, Angelica and some of the other returning characters. Forces behind the camera continue to push for 'drama' on the show (with no regard for the people involved) which bleeds out into off camera events; there are lots of characters behaving badly this time around, from disrespect to immoral/reckless/criminal actions that create a ripple effect and brings up some dark themes along the way. Characters are put thru the wringer to put it very mildly, more so than the previous season on and off camera, and the social media for and about the show and its co-hosts doesn't help. I felt particularly bad for Angelica this time around, more than any other character; I rooted for her happiness and well-being and found Hope far less likable this time around. There are power imbalances between numerous characters that cause issues with plot twists and shockers dropping until the end of the book; it's very much binge worthy reading. Characters got under my skin (for better and worse) far more than I expected them to this time around; most of my reaction notes made while reading can't be put in a post able review if that's any indication. I wanted to step into the story to have words with many of the characters and hoped just desserts would rain on them in fitting ways for their actions. If you want reading that'll draw reactions out of you, this series will do that. You do need to read the books in order so they make sense and there will be at least one more book to come for Hope and Angelica; so far the wait time between books being published has been short so you're not left hanging for long wondering what will happen in the next season.
This is an entertaining ride thru the filming of a television series and the behind the scenes antics of those involved in it and those who love them, however well or poorly that love is expressed. And unlike most TV shows, those typical fade to black moments don't fade to black here; the steam and heat, lust and attraction, the whole shebang (so to speak) is on many many pages of this book for your reading pleasure. I'm curious and eager to read book three whenever it's available, to see what happens next; the ending of Under the Table provides plenty of questions about how season three will go down for all involved.
I recommend reading this series instead of watching TV; check out the author's other works as well.
Under the Table, Book Two in the Hotel Bombshell series, kicks off in the pre-season for the show's second season and continues thru to its post-season. It's packed with drama, angst, some humor, and plenty of steamy heat; presumably the same elements in actual reality TV shows, but in this case better written and delivered. Complicated relationships and family drama are front and center for this round, with no shortage of hurt feelings, poor communication, hypocrisy and questionable behavior to fuel those fires. The core cast from Culinary Chaos is back along with some of the secondaries you either loved or loved to hate; if book one hooked you this one will pull you in further while potentially messing with your feelings for Hope, Angelica and some of the other returning characters. Forces behind the camera continue to push for 'drama' on the show (with no regard for the people involved) which bleeds out into off camera events; there are lots of characters behaving badly this time around, from disrespect to immoral/reckless/criminal actions that create a ripple effect and brings up some dark themes along the way. Characters are put thru the wringer to put it very mildly, more so than the previous season on and off camera, and the social media for and about the show and its co-hosts doesn't help. I felt particularly bad for Angelica this time around, more than any other character; I rooted for her happiness and well-being and found Hope far less likable this time around. There are power imbalances between numerous characters that cause issues with plot twists and shockers dropping until the end of the book; it's very much binge worthy reading. Characters got under my skin (for better and worse) far more than I expected them to this time around; most of my reaction notes made while reading can't be put in a post able review if that's any indication. I wanted to step into the story to have words with many of the characters and hoped just desserts would rain on them in fitting ways for their actions. If you want reading that'll draw reactions out of you, this series will do that. You do need to read the books in order so they make sense and there will be at least one more book to come for Hope and Angelica; so far the wait time between books being published has been short so you're not left hanging for long wondering what will happen in the next season.
This is an entertaining ride thru the filming of a television series and the behind the scenes antics of those involved in it and those who love them, however well or poorly that love is expressed. And unlike most TV shows, those typical fade to black moments don't fade to black here; the steam and heat, lust and attraction, the whole shebang (so to speak) is on many many pages of this book for your reading pleasure. I'm curious and eager to read book three whenever it's available, to see what happens next; the ending of Under the Table provides plenty of questions about how season three will go down for all involved.
I recommend reading this series instead of watching TV; check out the author's other works as well.
October 28, 2025
“I’m going to say this once.” Angelica put her hand out in front of her and lifted her gaze to meet Hope’s. “I still believe that opening a marriage after infidelity is an end to a marriage.”
This is the second book in the Hotel Bombshell series and it was full of more angst, drama, and spice. After reading the first book I wondered if the story would evolve into a polyamorous romance. I was actually impressed the word “cheating“ wasn’t used once in the first book Culinary Chaos, and was only used twice in Under the Table in one sentence. The married couple Hope and Rex never call what Hope is doing cheating, but the tension of infidelity is there. And Angelica has valid concerns that pursuing a relationship with Hope will not end well.
My heart actually broke for Hope, Angelica, and Rex. As someone who is polyamorous but chooses to be in a monogamous relationship I know the seriousness of that choice. I ache for Hope, who is in love with both her husband, the father of her child, and the captivating Ice Fairy Angelica. I also ache for Angelica who knows she will not be the one chosen if it comes down to that. Rex is the established partner who loves his wife’s impulsivity and whimsy but ultimately can’t handle opening their relationship.
Of course the book is full of the same reality tv format of reviving failing hotels. We get to see more dramatic storylines at the various hotels including sexual assault. We also meet some of Hope and Angelica’s family members as they get to film an episode with them. We see how they interact with their family.
With relationships out of sorts and a third season to film I can’t wait for book three to come out. I do hope we get our happily ever after.
January 4, 2026
“You can’t just do whatever you want and think that there aren’t consequences, Hope. Because there are. You can’t just take whatever you want and run with it, make decisions for other people and think that we’re just going to fall in line and do what you want. We have feelings too. We have wants and desires and hurts and dreams.”
It took me five hours, with no bathroom breaks and no sleep, to get through the first book in the Hotel Bombshell series - and not much longer to buy the second one and finish it over the following days. I was hooked by both the plot and Adrian J. Smith’s writing from the very first page, and it is one of the most addictive stories I have ever read.
That being said, I found chapter two in the establishment to be far more irksome than the previous one. While book n.1 took slow burn to an extreme level and gave us a deep analysis of two magnets pulling inexorably toward each other, no matter the obstacles, book n.2 felt more like dancing the cha-cha: one step forward, two steps back. The result, unfortunately, is that I feel we are still in the same place where book one ended, with the main characters retreating and hiding more and more within their flaws and imperfections, without really progressing.
This is especially true for Hope, who —in my humble opinion— gave her ABSOLUTE WORST in this book, gaslighting everyone with no mercy and never seeming inclined to take even a shred of responsibility for the choices she makes and the pain she causes.
ANYWAYS, since I am absolutely obsessed with this story and I have never withdrawn from a toxic literary relationship, it is now time to see where these ladies are headed in Season 3
Ps. ANGEL REDEEM YOURSELF DARLING I HAVE BEEN ROOTING FOR YOU SINCE DAY 1, YOU DESERVE THE WORLD!!!!
It took me five hours, with no bathroom breaks and no sleep, to get through the first book in the Hotel Bombshell series - and not much longer to buy the second one and finish it over the following days. I was hooked by both the plot and Adrian J. Smith’s writing from the very first page, and it is one of the most addictive stories I have ever read.
That being said, I found chapter two in the establishment to be far more irksome than the previous one. While book n.1 took slow burn to an extreme level and gave us a deep analysis of two magnets pulling inexorably toward each other, no matter the obstacles, book n.2 felt more like dancing the cha-cha: one step forward, two steps back. The result, unfortunately, is that I feel we are still in the same place where book one ended, with the main characters retreating and hiding more and more within their flaws and imperfections, without really progressing.
This is especially true for Hope, who —in my humble opinion— gave her ABSOLUTE WORST in this book, gaslighting everyone with no mercy and never seeming inclined to take even a shred of responsibility for the choices she makes and the pain she causes.
ANYWAYS, since I am absolutely obsessed with this story and I have never withdrawn from a toxic literary relationship, it is now time to see where these ladies are headed in Season 3
Ps. ANGEL REDEEM YOURSELF DARLING I HAVE BEEN ROOTING FOR YOU SINCE DAY 1, YOU DESERVE THE WORLD!!!!
November 10, 2025
What an emotional roller-coaster this story is taking us on. I am absolutely loving it. The whole dynamic is wild and yet amazing. The relationship between Hope and Angelica is beautiful and yet tainted in the way that it has developed. I love that Hope has this ability to see through Angelica's facade to the real woman behind it and not just this over the top ice queen that everyone else sees. I hate that Hope wasn't upfront with Rex from the Start, but I also love that she was able to tell him the truth and to try and work out a solution. That being said Rex should have stuck with his feelings about the entire relationship because now they are all worse off. On one hand I feel bad for him, but also he gave Hope the freedom to seek out Angelica. Also, its very clear that while they do love each other Rex and Hope's marriage has been on the rocks for a long time. Ugh... this ending is torture, but it was pretty clear things were going awry. Also, I just hate that I have to wait for the next book because I want to know whats going to happen now.
The hotel side of the book was also fantastic. The different situations they had to deal with and the solutions were excellent. Overall an excellent sequel and I look forward to finding out what comes next.
A big thank you to the Author Adrian J. Smith for the opportunity to read this ARC. This is my honest, voluntary review.
The hotel side of the book was also fantastic. The different situations they had to deal with and the solutions were excellent. Overall an excellent sequel and I look forward to finding out what comes next.
A big thank you to the Author Adrian J. Smith for the opportunity to read this ARC. This is my honest, voluntary review.
November 12, 2025
Angelica and Hope honestly expected their show to just be one season. Now it's back, and they'll have to deal with each other and their feelings.
Hope reads very weird. On one hand she's all 'im in counseling with my husband to save our marriage' while also wanting to be with Angelica. Their chemistry continues to be smoldering.
Rex, I feel bad for you but geeze you're being a asshole. He'd probably be better breaking up with Hope.
And Hope and Angelica gave into temptation. Again. And she tells Rex, and... seems to want Angelica AND Rex.
The hotel rescue bits all feel very surface level, much like the last book.
Oh lovely, the show is having the hosts family visit. Angelica's dad is a dick, tho her brother is ok.
Hope's sister Rachel basically sides with her hubby Rex and intends to shut Hope out. Ouch ..
They make it to end of season, then Rex moves out, taking their daughter. And Hope and Angelica are broke up, again. And Rachel is helping Rex keep Eva away from Hope.
2.5 stars out of 5. I think this series is just not my jam, at all. Especially as it feels like both book 1 and 2 end at exactly the same place.
Hope reads very weird. On one hand she's all 'im in counseling with my husband to save our marriage' while also wanting to be with Angelica. Their chemistry continues to be smoldering.
Rex, I feel bad for you but geeze you're being a asshole. He'd probably be better breaking up with Hope.
And Hope and Angelica gave into temptation. Again. And she tells Rex, and... seems to want Angelica AND Rex.
The hotel rescue bits all feel very surface level, much like the last book.
Oh lovely, the show is having the hosts family visit. Angelica's dad is a dick, tho her brother is ok.
Hope's sister Rachel basically sides with her hubby Rex and intends to shut Hope out. Ouch ..
They make it to end of season, then Rex moves out, taking their daughter. And Hope and Angelica are broke up, again. And Rachel is helping Rex keep Eva away from Hope.
2.5 stars out of 5. I think this series is just not my jam, at all. Especially as it feels like both book 1 and 2 end at exactly the same place.
November 7, 2025
This book was emotional in the best way — amazing, frustrating, and full of moments that really hit me. It was hard to put down. There were times I wanted to yell at the characters because everything felt so real and intense.
Angelica’s struggle especially stood out to me. She tries so hard to stay in control and guard her heart, especially after everything she’s been through. She knows what she could lose if she lets herself open up again, but she also wants to heal and find happiness. Hope, meanwhile, is discovering who she truly is. She believed she could have the best of both worlds, but that journey may cost her the thing she values most.
Both women are dealing with family expectations and the pressure of other people’s opinions. That made their journeys feel incredibly real. I really connected with Angelica — that feeling of protecting your heart while still wanting something deeper is so relatable.
I honestly can’t wait for the next book. I’m fully cheering both of these women on.
Angelica’s struggle especially stood out to me. She tries so hard to stay in control and guard her heart, especially after everything she’s been through. She knows what she could lose if she lets herself open up again, but she also wants to heal and find happiness. Hope, meanwhile, is discovering who she truly is. She believed she could have the best of both worlds, but that journey may cost her the thing she values most.
Both women are dealing with family expectations and the pressure of other people’s opinions. That made their journeys feel incredibly real. I really connected with Angelica — that feeling of protecting your heart while still wanting something deeper is so relatable.
I honestly can’t wait for the next book. I’m fully cheering both of these women on.
October 31, 2025
Wow, what a rollercoaster this book was! I enjoyed it even more than the first one. I really like the format of this series. In this book, they are starting Season 2 of Hotel Bombshell, and the tension between Hope and Angelica is still present, pretty much where they left off.
There were a few parts in the book that I didn’t like. Hope's sister, Rachel, felt extremely out of line in her actions. This book also seems to tackle a lot more serious topics compared to the last one. One thing that was lacking in this book was the presence of Eva. She was mentioned a couple of times, needing a bedtime story read to her, but she didn't appear much in the story.
As the season progresses, I found the interpersonal relationships to be intriguing. Nobody really communicated with each other, but they made decisions on each other's behalf. At times, there was too much back and forth regarding the relationships. However, this book allowed us to see more of Angelica, helping us understand her better. I found that I like her so much more now.
I received an arc
There were a few parts in the book that I didn’t like. Hope's sister, Rachel, felt extremely out of line in her actions. This book also seems to tackle a lot more serious topics compared to the last one. One thing that was lacking in this book was the presence of Eva. She was mentioned a couple of times, needing a bedtime story read to her, but she didn't appear much in the story.
As the season progresses, I found the interpersonal relationships to be intriguing. Nobody really communicated with each other, but they made decisions on each other's behalf. At times, there was too much back and forth regarding the relationships. However, this book allowed us to see more of Angelica, helping us understand her better. I found that I like her so much more now.
I received an arc
November 5, 2025
Prepare yourself for an emotional rollercoaster with this second entry in the Hotel Bombshell series! I loved book 1 and its deliciously slow burn, so of course I wondered how book 2 would compare. The author certainly did not disappoint, with this story taking us through a series of ups and downs that had me wondering where on earth this journey with Hope and Angelica would lead me in the end. I don't want to spoil anything for future readers, but I will say while the relationships in this story are messy, they are oh-so-believable! My heart aches for everyone involved, but perhaps most of all for Angelica at the end of book 2. I am so looking forward to book 3 to see how this will all conclude with the third season of Hope and Angelica's reality show and ultimately answers to the questions of will they both find their HEA and will it be with each other?
November 5, 2025
After Culinary Chaos, I couldn't wait for season 2 of the Hotel Bombshell series. As with any series, one hopes the subsequent ones can live up to the first. Under the Table more than does that for me. This one has so much to offer...family drama, angst, heat, tension, and lots more behind the scenes activity. As always, this is well written with scenes so well done I sometimes felt as if I were there watching in the background. This is yet another entertaining series by this author that gets better with each new release. As a note, this is not a standalone work and the series should be read starting with the first release.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 15, 2025
I can’t decide if I enjoy this series or hate it
There’s so much drama. Like, I’ve seen telenovas with less drama. Nobody feels good about anything for very long. The show itself is chaotic and harsh, but so is the books. Yet the story is compelling and the characters have dimension. So I’m conflicted. I get exactly WHY the author is torturing her characters, but sheesh. I think what bothers me isn’t the drama so much as it’s the whiplash. I’m complaining, but I know that I’ll download the third book and read it too.
There’s so much drama. Like, I’ve seen telenovas with less drama. Nobody feels good about anything for very long. The show itself is chaotic and harsh, but so is the books. Yet the story is compelling and the characters have dimension. So I’m conflicted. I get exactly WHY the author is torturing her characters, but sheesh. I think what bothers me isn’t the drama so much as it’s the whiplash. I’m complaining, but I know that I’ll download the third book and read it too.
October 22, 2025
I got this book direct buy from the Author.
OMG this book made me so full of emotions and I won't lie after finishing the 2nd book in this series I Hate a few characters and dislike the MC Hope. This book made my Heart ache for the MC Ange. Adrian J Smith has such a way of writing that draws you and makes you feel. Do yourself a favor and read these books and buckle up buttercup for a helluva ride. Though be prepared for the wait there is still 2 more books to be released in this series.
OMG this book made me so full of emotions and I won't lie after finishing the 2nd book in this series I Hate a few characters and dislike the MC Hope. This book made my Heart ache for the MC Ange. Adrian J Smith has such a way of writing that draws you and makes you feel. Do yourself a favor and read these books and buckle up buttercup for a helluva ride. Though be prepared for the wait there is still 2 more books to be released in this series.
November 11, 2025
What a turn of events for our leads. We had some happy times for Hope and Angel for a minute. Both their families showed their true colors. Hope sister and husband betrayed her. Hope has not made great decisions, but Rex was part of the decision making and he just turned on her. Angelica Dad was a tool. Her brother seemed cool. Now everyone is alone and making bad choices. I cannot wait until the 3rd book comes out
November 13, 2025
Oh, Hope
Hope has put herself between a rock and a hard place in book 2. Things certainly didn’t go how I thought they would, but there really is no right answer here. I don’t even know what I hope the outcome of book 3 should be. Part of me wants Angelica to find someone who can love her without putting her through the hell that Hope has in book 2. Ugh.
All in all, great book. Can’t wait to read what happens next.
Hope has put herself between a rock and a hard place in book 2. Things certainly didn’t go how I thought they would, but there really is no right answer here. I don’t even know what I hope the outcome of book 3 should be. Part of me wants Angelica to find someone who can love her without putting her through the hell that Hope has in book 2. Ugh.
All in all, great book. Can’t wait to read what happens next.
December 12, 2025
wow!!
Have you ever been so caught up in the characters that sometimes you have to put the book down? Both book 1 & 2 have been that way for me. God I love these women the chemistry, caring, they have for each other even when on the outs. All the characters are amazing some you definitely don’t like. Rex who you thought was a good guy what a jerk. Hope’s sister so much for family. Can’t wait for book 3.
Really read this series you won’t be disappointed!!
Have you ever been so caught up in the characters that sometimes you have to put the book down? Both book 1 & 2 have been that way for me. God I love these women the chemistry, caring, they have for each other even when on the outs. All the characters are amazing some you definitely don’t like. Rex who you thought was a good guy what a jerk. Hope’s sister so much for family. Can’t wait for book 3.
Really read this series you won’t be disappointed!!
October 15, 2025
Omg wow what can I say just phenomenal, the love pored out loud and clear but the tension was thick, the connection between them all was seamlessly written, i cried more over this second part im so invested in the story i can't wait to see what happens next. Another one that you can't put down definitely must read congratulations
November 6, 2025
Adrian does it again!
Honestly, Adrian never fails to capture my attention and get me hooked immediately. I was counting down the days for this book after finishing the 1st one. Can’t wait for book 3! Love that Adrian offers short stories between them because that really holds me over 😂
Honestly, Adrian never fails to capture my attention and get me hooked immediately. I was counting down the days for this book after finishing the 1st one. Can’t wait for book 3! Love that Adrian offers short stories between them because that really holds me over 😂
October 16, 2025
Holy hell, this book is AMAZING! I absolutely love this series and can’t wait to get more. The spice is off the charts fantastic! I love the dynamic between Hope and Angelica with all the ups and downs and crazy events. Such a great book!
October 20, 2025
An excellent reading escape in this book that’s a bit of a fan fic twist. Carries on from the first season really well, and the chemistry between the FMCs is splendiferous. Grab and settle in for some binge reading.
November 10, 2025
loved
Addicting and beautifully written. A love triangle that had possibilities of survival but is tipped over by complexities of human emotions. The heart will inevitably want who it wants.
Addicting and beautifully written. A love triangle that had possibilities of survival but is tipped over by complexities of human emotions. The heart will inevitably want who it wants.
December 25, 2025
Bro, I waited 2 months to read the first book just so that i wouldn't have to wait for the second part. And now that i have read this book I'm realising I'll have to wait any way for the third one. JJ, please release it already. Though the short stories are helping it's still not an easy wait.
November 7, 2025
so GOOD
I really enjoyed this 2nd book and a lot of emotions and it is a rollercoaster! ! And I cannot wait for book 3!
I really enjoyed this 2nd book and a lot of emotions and it is a rollercoaster! ! And I cannot wait for book 3!
November 24, 2025
fuck my baka life 💔
December 18, 2025
I really dislike Hope’s sister Rachel and her approach to discussing Hopes love life. I HATE Josef. I need Book 3 in my hands RIGHT NOW.
November 3, 2025
This series just keeps getting better. The angst in book 2 starts to rev up. People unravel, the spice begins to steam and worlds collide. Are the feelings between Ange and Hope enough to survive the tidal waves crashing to shore? We’ll need to wait and see and I’m so here for it. I’d be lying if I said this series isn’t making me sweat! I cannot get enough of these MCs and their journey. The author constantly keeps you on your toes. What you think is inevitable may certainly not be…or will it? I’m spiraling in the best way and so thankful this is only book 2 of 4 because the thought of this series ending is already too much for me to fathom. You will NOT want to miss out on this. Book 2 releases November 5th!! 🙌🤗🏳️🌈
December 4, 2025
This book carries on very much in the vein of the first book in the series. Drama on and off camera and just as the characters start to think they have it all worked out, it all unravels again. If you loved the first one you'll love this one too. I felt we saw a different side to some of the characters this time, some for the better and some for the worse, but where can it go from here? Hopefully there will be more answers in the third book.
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