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Amaretto Sour After Dark

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Ivy Adams has always had a carefully calculated, foolproof plan for her life. That is, until the day her ex-husband gets engaged just six months after their divorce… and suddenly, Ivy is the only one left standing still. With no backup plan for heartbreak, she does the unthinkable: books a solo trip to a summer resort, determined, for once, not to have everything figured out.

Elijah Short has never met a risk he wouldn’t take. Living fast and thinking later has always worked for him until one reckless fling follows him and leaves his business in shambles. With nowhere to go but away, Elijah takes a friend’s advice and escapes to a coastal resort, expecting nothing more than a temporary distraction.

Neither of them was looking for anything real. But when a perfectionist desperate to let go meets a risk-taker finally forced to slow down, one unexpected summer might change everything.

143 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 15, 2026

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About the author

J.D. Southwell

10 books83 followers
JD Southwell, a proud Texan, embraces her roles as a devoted wife, passionate author, and aspiring businesswoman. Identifying as a functioning introvert, JD channels her love for reading into crafting romance books filled suspense and fantasy, finding joy in the diverse worlds that literature offers.
In the peaceful quiet of the night, her creativity thrives as she weaves stories inspired by the characters and adventures she encounters within the pages of books. When she's not writing, you can often find her in the kitchen baking delicious treats, rewatching her favorite shows and movies, or cherishing moments with family and friends.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Profile Image for Cardi Blue.
645 reviews16 followers
July 22, 2026
ivy with the Roseyyyyyy!!!

Ivy needed to let loose. I’m glad she did. We really have to learn as Black women to relax. It’s hard but we deserve a break. Ivy should’ve been blocked that ex. Eli was wilding but not his fault.
Profile Image for Ladi Tee Inferno.
270 reviews6 followers
July 25, 2026
Right Time

Ivy's getaway was right on time. Timing perfectly with Elijah's getaway. Ivy was dealing with her ex who obviously moved on while they were still married. He's about to marry again but as soon as Ivy begins to gather herself, he's hitting her line with the I'm sorrys and I made a mistake. Boy Bye.
Eli's friend and girlfriend can't make their getaway so he decides to give his ticket to Eli. Especially with what has gone on with his shop, he needs to wusa while it's being worked out. Ivy was definitely not going for any hookups, just a reset. While on the other hand, Eli is single and able to mingle. Although, some of thst mingling back home is the cause of his situation. But the timing is just right, again for two people who hadn't met where they lived but Whoop, there it is in Port Isle. Fun was had, misunderstandings worked out and one woman who met the other side of Principal Ivy, when she couldn't accept rejection and watch her mouth. Now, Eli is opening another business on the island and the two...well it's a love story, you already know.
Great read especially when on the rooftop, Ivy showed what she was working with and shook Eli's toes and broke Ole girl's spirit!!!
Profile Image for Thee Spicy Pisces .
63 reviews1 follower
July 18, 2026
Amaretto Sour After Dark was a fun, sexy romcom! The chemistry between Ivy and Eli was strong and evident from their meet cute on the plane!

What I loved most about this story was that it showed Eli’s internal thoughts! Usually the man is secure and confident… and the woman is insecure and not sure, but I loved that Eli was having his own insecure thoughts and he had to work through them as well!

Ivy!!! I love how being on that island reaffirmed her worth and confidence! In the beginning, she was crumbling, overthinking, and trying to find herself! The woman she was when she arrived on Port isle was def not the same woman when she left!

Amaretto Sour After Dark was a great read and I’m excited to see where the next book in the series takes me!
Profile Image for Dannireads17.
229 reviews7 followers
July 15, 2026
Rosie finally let loose

Vacation vibes all around. Ivy came on vacation to relax, but she was so uptight and structured that barely wanted to experience the resort activities. Fresh off a divorce, she wasn’t looking for a man. Eli was her complete opposite, carefree, adventurous, and determined to get her attention. I ain’t gonna lie, Ivy had me aggravated with all that running. Once she got her little feelings together, they had a good time. Loved the epilogue. It’s a cute, spicy summer read.
Profile Image for Brisace.
614 reviews
July 29, 2026
Thank you to Elle Kay Gee Publications for the ARC copy of Amsterdam ❤️

Called off wedding, solo trip to Amsterdam, and a chance encounter that changed everything. Myrielle and Zayden weren’t looking for love, but somehow fate kept bringing them back together. I loved watching two people carrying old wounds slowly find comfort, healing, and something worth taking a chance on.
Profile Image for Avid Reader.
16 reviews
July 17, 2026
Sweet with a bite but smooth & satisfying- like an Amaretto Sour - this is a delicious read!


Hot, steamy, and exactly the kind of summer romance I was craving.


This is a wonderful book about a beautiful, accomplished black woman who is looking to rebuild her confidence after a divorce and rediscover her inner risk-tasker at a singles resort. She meets her match in a fine, successful black entrepreneur who is looking to rebuild his business after a recent vandalism and not actively looking for a romance, but finding one nevertheless.


This book was such an enjoyable read! It had EVERYTHING I want in a summer romance…

☀️ Opposites attract.
🌴 Island getaway.
😂 Delicious dialogue.
❤️ Emotional growth.
🔥 Serious sexual chemistry.
🍹 Multiple laugh-out-loud moments.
💋 Beaucoup spice.

Let’s start with the airplane scene. It had me hooked immediately. I will try to avoid spoilers, but the main characters are Ivy, Eli, and Ivy’s Rose toy. The interaction results with Ivy being called “Rosie” for the rest of the trip. I was already locked in. 😂

One of my favorite recurring jokes was Eli waking up feeling “loved and left” every time Ivy quietly slipped away after they made love before morning. Such a funny twist on a familiar romance trope (and the role-reversal of it all!) - it made their dynamic even more engaging because the tension between them was always simmering just under the surface. Ivy had Eli hooked! He could not figure her out, but he was determined to do so!

And THAT scene with Trina… 😂 When Ivy has finally had enough of Trina treating Eli like “community Richard,” I was cheering. No spoilers, but trust me—the buildup to the confrontation makes the payoff worth it.

What really made this book a must-read for me, though, was the spice and the chemistry. Ivy and Eli had that kind of magnetic pull that made every interaction feel charged, whether they were getting to know each other, flirting, or giving in to the attraction they clearly couldn’t ignore. Their intimate scenes were damn hot. Eli knew what he was doing, and Ivy knew what she wanted.

Between the humor, the heat, the chemistry, and the emotional journey, this book was the perfect mix of funny, heartfelt, and sexy.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Highly recommend-a great read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for LIT GODDESSES BOOK CLUB.
54 reviews
July 17, 2026
Amaretto Sour After Dark was such a fun and engaging read. It mixes romance, emotion, and just the right amount of drama to keep you hooked the whole time. J.D. Southwell did a great job creating characters that feel real—flawed, relatable, and easy to connect with. The chemistry between the main characters is there right from the start. Their relationship has that perfect mix of tension, passion, and sweet moments that feel genuine.

I really liked how their connection built over time instead of feeling rushed, so you get to experience all the ups and downs with them. One of the things I enjoyed most was how much depth the characters had. They’re dealing with past baggage, insecurities, and tough choices while figuring out their feelings for each other. That emotional growth added a lot to the story and made it more than just a typical romance. The writing is smooth and easy to get into, and the pacing kept me turning pages.

There’s enough drama and a few twists to keep things interesting, but it never takes away from the romance. The mix of vulnerability, healing, and love was really well done. Overall, Amaretto Sour After Dark is a really enjoyable and emotionally satisfying romance with great chemistry and memorable characters. If you like stories with heartfelt moments and a bit of relationship drama, you’ll probably love this one. Recommendation: Definitely worth checking out if you’re into romance with emotional depth, strong character growth, and lots of chemistry.
Profile Image for RaeReads.
129 reviews2 followers
July 18, 2026
Find you some fun in the sun with an Eli

This was such a cute little novella!!!! J.D. Southwell delivers an absolute summer standout with Amaretto Sour After Dark, serving up a beautifully layered, forced-proximity romance that captures your attention from the very first page. Set against the serene backdrop of Port Isle, the story centers on Ivy ", a structured, perfectionist middle school principal trying to let go of the rigid life plan she always envisioned. When her world collides with Eli, a man who is finally being forced to slow down and face his own truths, the emotional tension and effortless chemistry between them completely take over. Southwell expertly balances the "sweet and sour" elements of their dynamic—matching Ivy's controlling tendencies with Eli's distinct energy—resulting in a deeply moving journey of healing and self-discovery. Just like the signature cocktail it is named after, this installment in the Drunken Summer Nights multi-author series is incredibly smooth, emotionally resonant, and an absolute must-read for contemporary romance fans.
260 reviews2 followers
July 26, 2026
Amaretto Sour is my favorite drink so I already knew I was going to have a good time. This series has been absolutely amazing. Ivy and Eli needed that vacation on Port Isle, and I really enjoyed watching their love bloom. Rosey (Ivy) definitely had me playing that song in my head…. “She's a runner, she's a track star. She gon' run away when it gets hard.” Because babyyyyyyy she just kept leaving Eli caressing a cold pillow lol.
I loved that this book focused on taking risks and stepping outside of your comfort zone. The chemistry between Rosey and Eli was there, they both just had to get out of their own way! I really enjoyed how every night at midnight the travel agent had a different adults-only activity planned. I need a travel agent to bring that quiz because baby level two of that night club was EVERYTHING!!! The back and forth banter between those two was cute, but those two were GROWN and SPICY!! All in all the spice was definitely spicing and I enjoyed the love story. I loved watching a woman who had been cheated on and divorced finally be loved correctly.
Side note I definitely played the playlist as I read lol.
Profile Image for Erica Harris.
74 reviews6 followers
July 20, 2026
Ready to risk it all

This series is definitely delivering! Amaretto Sour After Dark follows Ivy and Eli, two single people spending a week-long vacation on Port Isle, and I really enjoyed watching their story unfold.

I loved that this book centered around taking risks and stepping outside of your comfort zone. The chemistry between the characters was undeniable, and yes…the spice was definitely spicing. 🌶️

One of my favorite details was how every night at midnight featured a different adults-only activity, which kept the story fun, fresh, and exciting. It added a unique twist that made me look forward to what was coming next.

Overall, this was another enjoyable, quick summer read, and my favorite in the series so far.
Profile Image for Tiffani.
82 reviews
July 26, 2026
Ivy “Vee” planned to go on a singles trip with her bestie Quin. But Quin is now back with her ex and Vee wants to cancel. But being the bestie she is Quin lets Vee knows she deserves this. Deserves a getaway…

Eli’s business just took a huge lost and his best friend Zoe convinces him to get away and take his mind off the stress. He’ll handle the business affairs while Eli takes a much needed break…

Heading to Port Isle these 2 cross paths on the plane. Vee is beyond embarrassed from the encounter and Eli is amused. Thinking that’s it they walk away from one another. There’s no way they would run into each other on this island

Amaretto Sours after dark lead Vee and Eli into some unexpected adventures with one another. They’re on the island to have fun and then go back to reality. They weren’t expecting to stay on each other’s mind…

Could a week change everything or will this just be fun to do and when it’s over they go there on way
Profile Image for MobettaReads.
196 reviews1 follower
August 15, 2026
Ivy and Eli! One recently divorce and the other one just out living his best life without commitment goes to Port Isle to escape their problems at home only to find each other and of course they have sex. However, Eli feels some type of way when Ivy leaves his bed in the middle of the night! Not once but twice. Something he did with women back at home but to him Ivy is different and he is in his feelings about it. Ivy on the other hand leaves because she starts to feel strong Feelings for Eli which is why she leaves because all she could think about is how her Ex-husband cheated. But when Ivy stops running and let Eli live her, they began to build a life together.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for LaNessa Griffey.
46 reviews2 followers
July 17, 2026
Ivy and Eli never expected to find love on vacation. That week together as complete strangers changed them in ways they never knew they needed. I loved Ivy and Eli’s chemistry even though they were both scared and not really looking for a relationship. Ivy got on my nerves with her running from Eli. Coming from a bad marriage had Ivy scared of all the good Eli was showing her. This was such a good read. I loved that although Eli wanted to, he just couldn’t get Ivy off his mind or truly leave her alone. I recommend you read it to find out how their week together, at a singles resort, went!!
Profile Image for Vonetta Evans.
510 reviews15 followers
July 29, 2026
Ivy & Eli were a time

This was 3.5 stars for me.

Ivy is going through a lot after dealing with her ex husband who made her feel like she wasn’t enough in their marriage and was the cause of their divorce. A vacation planned with her friend turns into a solo trip but it is much needed. Eli had some of his own issues he was dealing with so when he is offered an escape to Port Isle he takes his friend up on the offer. These two got off to an awkward start and Eli would not let her forget with the nickname he gave her but he there was also something about her he wanted to know more about. Ivy is very structured and not into taking risks but when Eli talked her into stepping out of her comfort zone she does that and lets go. The nightly activities with the drink based on the questionnaire they completed was a nice added touch to the story. Through these activities we got to see Ivy become more open to taking risks and exploring things that made her happy both in and out the bedroom. That said, she’s a runner, she’s a track star fit her character perfectly. She almost let fear get in the way of exploring something more with Eli, but I was happy when she finally went for what she wanted.

I enjoyed the book overall but I would have liked to see a little more of their time together on the Island outside of their intimate times to really feel the romance aspect of the book and support the feelings that came along with that. I thought the epilogue was a nice ending to bring everything full circle.
Profile Image for Shae.
13 reviews
July 17, 2026
Perfect Summer Read!!!

This book was so cute!!!

I loved the dynamic between Vee and Eli. The back and forth banter between the two was exactly how it should be between two people on a singles resort. This book was short and sweet but also showed a side of what a woman goes through when her world is turned upside down!!

If you read this book check out the playlist also, it compliments this novella so well!!!
Profile Image for Shaniece .
114 reviews2 followers
July 24, 2026
3.5⭐️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ This a good summer read. The MFC Ivy was trying to go on vacation to step out of her comfort zone and she did that! Eli was gifted a vacation to help him get away from a messy situation. Neither one was looking for anything other than to relax. And Relax they did. People really do go on vacation and let loose. I did feel like at times they were both overthinking a lot. I liked how Eli helped guide Ivy to try new things. I would recommend this book.
Profile Image for Danielle Holmes.
181 reviews
July 27, 2026
Take Risks

Port Isle is the place to come and reset and that’s exactly what Ivy & Elijah seeks. Playing it safe isn’t always the best route to take. Trying out new experiences and exploring a different type of love can build a beautiful beginning. This is what Elijah and Ivy discover when they both take a risk and allow themselves to indulge in something new.

Tropes:
•Opposites attract
•Second chance love
•Beach romance

Spice level: 🌶️🌶️
Profile Image for BookinWithJess.
116 reviews2 followers
August 13, 2026
E-Book: Ivy is recently divorced & taking a singles getaway to Port Isle that she is hesitant about going on. Eli needs a vacation and is going Port Isle because he is single. What are the chances of these two meeting at Port Isle?!?! Trust me the drink Amaretto Sour has a whole new meaning now! 🤭🤭 Read this book to find out! 😉

P.S. Departing off the plane ✈️ ride for both of them is hilarious 😂 🤭🤣
Profile Image for NeeNee Symóne.
2 reviews
July 16, 2026
This novella gave great vacation vibes and was the perfect quick escape. I enjoyed the flirty moments and it has just enough drama to make me want to keep reading. Ivy and Eli had a refreshing romance that makes you want to consider stepping out of your comfort zone. Not to mention, their drink of choice was one of my favorites.
Profile Image for Clash.
105 reviews4 followers
July 18, 2026
Short and spicy summer read! Ivy reminds me of myself when I got back into dating and this resort would have been perfect! Just the right amount of spice and falling in love. I wish it was longer! Another great J.D. Southwell read!
Profile Image for Renada Boddie.
324 reviews17 followers
August 9, 2026
Amaretto Sour

Ivy wasn’t expecting anything from this vacation besides some relaxation and a good time, but then enters Elijah. Elijah was used to being the one getting chased, but Ivy pulled a HIM on HIM!!! She switched the whole game up, and I loved every minute of it.
Profile Image for Quenice Sims.
35 reviews1 follower
August 11, 2026
Perfect summer read 3.5⭐

Ivy definitely had on her track shoes the way she was running from that man I'm glad she finally got out of her own way because she was hurting my boys feelings.
Profile Image for BetweentheCoversLiterary .
1,630 reviews35 followers
August 14, 2026
Good

This was really good. I really enjoyed Ivy with the Rosey and Eli. They had the perfect chemistry and the tug and pull along with the banter was the cutest. Rooftop!!!Chefs kiss… IYKYK
Profile Image for LadyCline SheReads.
16 reviews1 follower
July 19, 2026
book 3 of the series

Listen when something is for you….its for you. I love the conflict yet easy flow of this story. I really enjoyed the flow and the ending was warming.
Profile Image for Tash. Tash..
Author 3 books22 followers
July 26, 2026
wow!!

I enjoyed every bit of this book! Like from start to finish was just 😍🤩

Ivy seriously learned to just trust herself and life and live and Eli was right there to catch her.
Profile Image for Elena B.
74 reviews6 followers
August 10, 2026
This Drunken Summer Nights Series just gets better and better. Book 3 kicks things up another notch.

Amaretto Sour After Dark by J.D. Southwell is the perfect quick, summer escape. A bit of fate made Ivy and Eli's meeting a possibility. Ivy and Eli had chemistry from the start, and it only got more intense. Ivy tried to deny them feelings hard, but she got out of her own way to see the possibility of more. I loved the pacing of their story. Didn't feel rushed at all.

If you are looking for a spicy, summer sizzler... Amaretto Sour After Dark needs to be on your TBR. You will not regret it.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews