Something Precious by M. Clarke is a contemporary romance. It is part of two series; I’m not familiar with either series, and I had no difficulty jumping right into Something Precious.
Set in Los Angeles, Something Precious continues the story of Jax and Rachel, and the story is told from both their points of view.. Both work in the fashion industry, one as a model, and the other as a photographer.
Jax is the model. He is also a model dad. He tries to be a model fiance, but doesn’t always succeed. He can be obtuse at times, which allows him to believe that his ex-wife, Chloe, could change and become a loving, attentive mom to their almost five-year old son, Jace. He can also be attentive, giving, supportive, and caring.
Rachel is the photographer. She’s talented and her work is drawing a lot of attention in the industry. She’s cute too; she is drawing a lot of attention from the male models in the industry! In a prior book, she has left a not-so-great relationship, and she has jumped on board the Jax-train. Not only is she engaged, but she has moved in and about to become a step-mother to the cutest five-year-old boy ever.
Something Precious was predictable. Even if you haven’t read the prior books, from the minute Chloe enters the story, it’s not hard to workout what is going to happen. However, I still enjoyed the story immensely. I adored the family/at-home time scenes with Jax, Jace and Rachel. They are a loving young family. The dynamic was great. you just feel good about them being together. The dilemma of trying to find some adult time by using the television as a babysitter was oh, so familiar (as was the falling asleep instead of getting that adult time). Jax, as a partner, is supportive of Rachel. He might be an idiot when it comes to figuring out the motives of his ex-wife, but when it comes to Rachel and Jace, he’s a superhero, almost as great as a mutant ninja turtle.
Something Precious takes readers through Jax’ and Rachel’s honeymoon phase and through a rough patch intentionally caused by Chloe. The story ends like a fairy tale. In the extended epilogue, we see Jax’ and Rachel’s happily-ever-after in progress. M. Clarke’s latest is a sweet, engaging romance that will have you swooning for days.
3.5-4 stars