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Bay West Social #2
Serious Potential
Welcome back to Bay West, the NYC lesbian condo community bursting with friendships, romance, heartache, and girls—everywhere. Meg and Lexi are back with new friends, new romances, and new problems.
California girl Tracy Allen has just dropped in on old friend Meg McTiernan to nurse a bruised ego and a broken heart. Will the lure of life at this lesbian-only development entice her to make a permanent move? Local resident Jennifer Betsy certainly hopes so. Meanwhile, reluctant singleton Meg may have just found the perfect girl in coworker Sasha Michaels. There’s only one problem: Sasha is straight as an arrow…or is she? And Lexi and Jesse are planning a dream wedding that promises to be the lesbian party of the year, so long as they can get past a trio of disapproving mothers, and exes that pop up at every turn.
Bay West Social: where there’s always fun, drama, and more than enough love to go around.
California girl Tracy Allen has just dropped in on old friend Meg McTiernan to nurse a bruised ego and a broken heart. Will the lure of life at this lesbian-only development entice her to make a permanent move? Local resident Jennifer Betsy certainly hopes so. Meanwhile, reluctant singleton Meg may have just found the perfect girl in coworker Sasha Michaels. There’s only one problem: Sasha is straight as an arrow…or is she? And Lexi and Jesse are planning a dream wedding that promises to be the lesbian party of the year, so long as they can get past a trio of disapproving mothers, and exes that pop up at every turn.
Bay West Social: where there’s always fun, drama, and more than enough love to go around.
288 pages, Paperback
First published October 18, 2016
14 people are currently reading
144 people want to read
About the author
Maggie Cummings
10 books149 followersMaggie Cummings lives in Staten Island, New York, with her wife and their two children. She has degrees in English, theater, and criminal justice. She works in law enforcement in the NYC metropolitan area.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
April 8, 2019
'Netgalley Arc provided by The Publisher in exchange for fair and honest review'
Honestly i had to go back and reread bk#1 before i can acclimate myself with this group again and right of the bat this second book was all about romance(structure of a relationship) and the pitch for being in love all the way to the conclusion. The writing was of much curiosity,interest,finding love,going through pain from break-ups/makeups,marriage,friendships plus a lots of depth in the storytelling and there were also good side stories written for each character in addition lets not take take away the massive chemistry that this series usually has between all the cast. Enjoyable and very descriptive sex scenes that were also well done for all the couples involve in this storyline which had great pace and editing,nice dialogue between the characters because they were so spot on at the right time plus the storyline had so much stereotypical characters which was fairly obvious yet it was still a fun,satisfying read right to the ending or not. Love the twist at the end to which i encourage everyone to the whole series!
Honestly i had to go back and reread bk#1 before i can acclimate myself with this group again and right of the bat this second book was all about romance(structure of a relationship) and the pitch for being in love all the way to the conclusion. The writing was of much curiosity,interest,finding love,going through pain from break-ups/makeups,marriage,friendships plus a lots of depth in the storytelling and there were also good side stories written for each character in addition lets not take take away the massive chemistry that this series usually has between all the cast. Enjoyable and very descriptive sex scenes that were also well done for all the couples involve in this storyline which had great pace and editing,nice dialogue between the characters because they were so spot on at the right time plus the storyline had so much stereotypical characters which was fairly obvious yet it was still a fun,satisfying read right to the ending or not. Love the twist at the end to which i encourage everyone to the whole series!
October 9, 2016
I am actually peeved at myself after having finished reading Serious Potential. I promised, even forbade, myself from starting series that are not finished yet. Unsuccessfully, as can be seen. To quote Oscar Wilde, "I can resist anything except temptation."
I kind of started to warm up to the Bay West Social series in this second installment (in the first one, my main problems were the open ending and being way more chick-litty than I expected). The writing was very good (nice pacing, good dialogue...), I began to really like some of the characters, and it all started to make sense to me (although I still think that there are too many characters and too many parties for my taste). I was particularly intrigued by the romance between Meg and Sasha. Sasha was nice but very insecure and anxious in her newfound sexuality and love for Meg. Her beloved mother was terminally ill, and she was quite lost in all of that. I found myself finally able to like Meg in this second book. She was in love and she was good with Sasha.
And then, near the end, a big disappointment. The author messed up my most liked pairing, and with that lame move she totally messed up the ending and my enjoyment of this book. Cummings chose the worst possible way to finish this installment. She turned Meg into a very unlikable person in my eyes. Not because she did not have the strength and the grace to forgive a really bad but drunk and stupid mistake made by the person Meg proclaimed to love with all her heart (I can totally understand and accept that), but because she just replaced one love interest with another without blinking an eye. Bah! How forced and unconvincing this twist at the and of the book is that Cummings tried to serve us. A bad soap opera kind of move that negates the previous plot development and characterization. Disappointing.
2.5 stars
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
I kind of started to warm up to the Bay West Social series in this second installment (in the first one, my main problems were the open ending and being way more chick-litty than I expected). The writing was very good (nice pacing, good dialogue...), I began to really like some of the characters, and it all started to make sense to me (although I still think that there are too many characters and too many parties for my taste). I was particularly intrigued by the romance between Meg and Sasha. Sasha was nice but very insecure and anxious in her newfound sexuality and love for Meg. Her beloved mother was terminally ill, and she was quite lost in all of that. I found myself finally able to like Meg in this second book. She was in love and she was good with Sasha.
And then, near the end, a big disappointment. The author messed up my most liked pairing, and with that lame move she totally messed up the ending and my enjoyment of this book. Cummings chose the worst possible way to finish this installment. She turned Meg into a very unlikable person in my eyes. Not because she did not have the strength and the grace to forgive a really bad but drunk and stupid mistake made by the person Meg proclaimed to love with all her heart (I can totally understand and accept that), but because she just replaced one love interest with another without blinking an eye. Bah! How forced and unconvincing this twist at the and of the book is that Cummings tried to serve us. A bad soap opera kind of move that negates the previous plot development and characterization. Disappointing.
2.5 stars
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2017
Well now. That was something. I’m not sure if I should reflect on “Serious Potential” a bit longer, or write a review while my thoughts are still fresh. Oh, F**k it, let's just do this and move on.
First – I really, REALLY, loved book one. The vibe clearly was competing with Melissa Brayden’s beloved SOHO Savvy series (which I loved!), and the author managed to create her own characters and world of interacting lesbians that just WORKED! It was joyous without the over-the-top angst of Melissa’s three books. I couldn't wait for “Serious Potential” to arrive on Audible, and so I bought it as a Kindle book, and read it as quickly as I could. Only Georgia Beers’ puppy love book #3 deserved this rush on my part so far!
But “Serious Potential” just doesn’t repeat the joy. The key word for book two is melancholy. Unnecessary melancholy if two words are allowed. It’s like the author realized she didn’t have much angst in book one, so she doubled down on book two.
On the good side of this review, we again follow multiple pairings and could-be pairings of women we know from book one, mixed in with newcomers. Most books that present multiple threads of romance generally mess up, but the multiple romances approach continues to work well here. Over the course of many months, we participate in the lives of women we’re beginning to know much better. “Serious Potential” picks up a year after the prior book, btw.
But…drama increases exponentially, and characters fail to communicate too often and too unnecessarily. Please forgive any lack of clarity, but I hope to make a few example comments without spoilers…if I can. I’m frustrated that Meg wrote off a love interest for making a smaller mistake than did Tracey, whose love interest forgave her. Yes, people are different, but nothing felt “right” about the dichotomy. Further, the drama over Lexi and Jesse’s wedding, teased in the summary, was…a non-event. Odd that the only drama warning we had was pretty much non-drama…in a book filled with drama.
But…more of the back-story is teased about long-term couples, and the stunning surprise voyeuristic observed make out, yet it doesn't feel right leaving the resolution for the assumed book three. Well…can’t say more without spoilers.
So…bottom line….I’m really disappointed. Certainly not a 5*. I’m tempted to rate the book 3* just because I’m pissed at sitting down for a book that annoyed me. Yet, while I really want neat HEAs in my fiction books, or at least HFNs, I was hooked enough into the lives of these women that I want to see where the assumed book three will take their current relationships. So…I’m giving this a 3.5* rounded up to 4* for GoodReads. But….I don’t know that I’ll rush to buy book three….I’ll wait for the Audible book. Two years or so from now, I’ll be less pissed at several of the women, and wondering how it all worked out. It’s dogma that book two of a trilogy is the weakest. Let’s hope that’s the case here.
First – I really, REALLY, loved book one. The vibe clearly was competing with Melissa Brayden’s beloved SOHO Savvy series (which I loved!), and the author managed to create her own characters and world of interacting lesbians that just WORKED! It was joyous without the over-the-top angst of Melissa’s three books. I couldn't wait for “Serious Potential” to arrive on Audible, and so I bought it as a Kindle book, and read it as quickly as I could. Only Georgia Beers’ puppy love book #3 deserved this rush on my part so far!
But “Serious Potential” just doesn’t repeat the joy. The key word for book two is melancholy. Unnecessary melancholy if two words are allowed. It’s like the author realized she didn’t have much angst in book one, so she doubled down on book two.
On the good side of this review, we again follow multiple pairings and could-be pairings of women we know from book one, mixed in with newcomers. Most books that present multiple threads of romance generally mess up, but the multiple romances approach continues to work well here. Over the course of many months, we participate in the lives of women we’re beginning to know much better. “Serious Potential” picks up a year after the prior book, btw.
But…drama increases exponentially, and characters fail to communicate too often and too unnecessarily. Please forgive any lack of clarity, but I hope to make a few example comments without spoilers…if I can. I’m frustrated that Meg wrote off a love interest for making a smaller mistake than did Tracey, whose love interest forgave her. Yes, people are different, but nothing felt “right” about the dichotomy. Further, the drama over Lexi and Jesse’s wedding, teased in the summary, was…a non-event. Odd that the only drama warning we had was pretty much non-drama…in a book filled with drama.
But…more of the back-story is teased about long-term couples, and the stunning surprise voyeuristic observed make out, yet it doesn't feel right leaving the resolution for the assumed book three. Well…can’t say more without spoilers.
So…bottom line….I’m really disappointed. Certainly not a 5*. I’m tempted to rate the book 3* just because I’m pissed at sitting down for a book that annoyed me. Yet, while I really want neat HEAs in my fiction books, or at least HFNs, I was hooked enough into the lives of these women that I want to see where the assumed book three will take their current relationships. So…I’m giving this a 3.5* rounded up to 4* for GoodReads. But….I don’t know that I’ll rush to buy book three….I’ll wait for the Audible book. Two years or so from now, I’ll be less pissed at several of the women, and wondering how it all worked out. It’s dogma that book two of a trilogy is the weakest. Let’s hope that’s the case here.
October 9, 2016
I find that I'm really getting hooked into this lesbian soap opera, that is Bay West. I found myself even enjoying this one a bit more than the first.
I had three small complaints about book 1. One, was what that I thought the overall cast of characters, were lacking a bit. Besides from Meg, Jesse and Lex, I didn't really care for anyone else. This book really helped with my complaint. I loved the new character of Tracy, and also liked Betsy. While we heard Betsey's name in book 1, this book we really got to know her. The new character of Tracy, was extremely likeable and made a great new addition to the book. Sasha, also a new character to the book, I had a love/hate relationship with. But, I still appreciated what she added to the story.
My second complaint was not enough angst/excitement, happened in book 1. Again Serious Potential amps up the angst for sure. I was glued to the book and read it in one sitting.
My final compliant was the love scenes. I just didn't think the sex scenes were steamy enough, in book 1. Again, Cumming definitely added some sizzle in the bedroom.
What stopped me from rating this 4 1/2 stars or even 5 stars, was Meg. I am a big Meg fan. I feel like Cumming torturers her and makes her look bad. I can't go into this more for spoiler reasons, but anyone that has read this, knows what I'm talking about. Please Cummings, give some love to my favorite character of this series, in the next book. Pretty please.
I easily recommend this serious to romance fans. Especially, if you are looking for a lesbian soap opera type feel. If you are new to the series, you must start at book 1. I hope we don't have to wait too long for book 3 to come out.
An ARC was given to me by Bold Strokes Books, for a honest review.
I had three small complaints about book 1. One, was what that I thought the overall cast of characters, were lacking a bit. Besides from Meg, Jesse and Lex, I didn't really care for anyone else. This book really helped with my complaint. I loved the new character of Tracy, and also liked Betsy. While we heard Betsey's name in book 1, this book we really got to know her. The new character of Tracy, was extremely likeable and made a great new addition to the book. Sasha, also a new character to the book, I had a love/hate relationship with. But, I still appreciated what she added to the story.
My second complaint was not enough angst/excitement, happened in book 1. Again Serious Potential amps up the angst for sure. I was glued to the book and read it in one sitting.
My final compliant was the love scenes. I just didn't think the sex scenes were steamy enough, in book 1. Again, Cumming definitely added some sizzle in the bedroom.
What stopped me from rating this 4 1/2 stars or even 5 stars, was Meg. I am a big Meg fan. I feel like Cumming torturers her and makes her look bad. I can't go into this more for spoiler reasons, but anyone that has read this, knows what I'm talking about. Please Cummings, give some love to my favorite character of this series, in the next book. Pretty please.
I easily recommend this serious to romance fans. Especially, if you are looking for a lesbian soap opera type feel. If you are new to the series, you must start at book 1. I hope we don't have to wait too long for book 3 to come out.
An ARC was given to me by Bold Strokes Books, for a honest review.
April 24, 2020
Serious Potential is the second novel in the Bay West Social series. The first one, Totally Worth It, introduced us to lesbian-exclusive development Bay West, on Staten Island, through Meg’s move there. Meg is the constant, the main character, around whom others gravitate.
In book 1, the main couple storyline – besides Meg’s – was between Lexi and Jesse. In this episode, it’s between Meg’s best friend Tracy Allen, professional golf player, and Jennifer Betsy, Jesse’s best friend. Tracy has left California, temporarily at first, after her breakup with a closeted celebrity. Her golf carrier isn’t going anywhere either, and she feels a change of scenery will do her good. She’s not looking for anything serious, but when she meets Betsy, everything changes. Betsy tries her best to resist Tracy’s charms, who she thinks will be leaving soon, when all she wants is a committed relationship.
Even as she gives Tracy and Betsy a sweet romance, Maggie Cummings sure enjoys torturing Meg. Not only do her exes seem happy together, which is never an easy situation, the woman she thinks could be The One might not be after all. And the one she barely looks at might be the love of her life.
While romance plays a big part in this series, it’s not why I enjoy it so much (even though the romance arcs are really good). I love the atmosphere, the universe Cummings has created, the characters. They are normal people, with normal jobs, some exciting, others not at all (at least to me). They are relatable. They don’t have extraordinary lives, yet their stories are far from boring. They are moving and heartwarming, fun and bittersweet. I’m taking a short break from Bay West because I don’t want to get to the end of the series too quickly, but I’ll be reading the third book, Definite Possibility, real soon.
In book 1, the main couple storyline – besides Meg’s – was between Lexi and Jesse. In this episode, it’s between Meg’s best friend Tracy Allen, professional golf player, and Jennifer Betsy, Jesse’s best friend. Tracy has left California, temporarily at first, after her breakup with a closeted celebrity. Her golf carrier isn’t going anywhere either, and she feels a change of scenery will do her good. She’s not looking for anything serious, but when she meets Betsy, everything changes. Betsy tries her best to resist Tracy’s charms, who she thinks will be leaving soon, when all she wants is a committed relationship.
Even as she gives Tracy and Betsy a sweet romance, Maggie Cummings sure enjoys torturing Meg. Not only do her exes seem happy together, which is never an easy situation, the woman she thinks could be The One might not be after all. And the one she barely looks at might be the love of her life.
While romance plays a big part in this series, it’s not why I enjoy it so much (even though the romance arcs are really good). I love the atmosphere, the universe Cummings has created, the characters. They are normal people, with normal jobs, some exciting, others not at all (at least to me). They are relatable. They don’t have extraordinary lives, yet their stories are far from boring. They are moving and heartwarming, fun and bittersweet. I’m taking a short break from Bay West because I don’t want to get to the end of the series too quickly, but I’ll be reading the third book, Definite Possibility, real soon.
July 12, 2020
After listening to the first audiobook in the Bay West Social series by Maggie Cummings, ‘Totally Worth It’, I couldn’t wait to get ‘Serious Potential’, the second book. Now, I’m eager to listen to the third and final installment, ‘Definite Possibility’. This series is definitely addictive.
The Bay West Social series books follow a group of friends who live in Bay West, a lesbian community in Staten Island, NYC. Even though each novel presents a couple, the romantic misadventures of one of the characters, Meg McTiernan, is featured throughout the whole series. ‘Serious Potential’ features California golfer Tracy Allen and Bay West resident Dr. Jennifer Betsy.
I never thought I’d say this but what I love about this series is all the lesbian drama. I normally have low tolerance with dramatic plots but in this series, the stories seem so real that it could describe any group of lesbian friends. And, as we know, there’s always drama in a lesbian bunch.
What makes this series so special is that Ms. Cummings describes the group dynamics with great skill. There are a few parallel stories in this installment: Meg & Sasha, Tracy & Betsy, Lexi & Jesse, but the author manages to balance them all so the reader can see and enjoy all the relationships evolving (or not). Every couple has great chemistry and the intimate scenes are hot.
AJ Ferraro narrates books one and two in the series and I sincerely hope she does number three too. This is not an easy story to narrate as there are a good number of main and also secondary characters but Ms. Ferraro makes all the voices distinctive and recognisable. There are also a few emotional scenes which she narrates with ease. Listening to these audiobooks is like watching a lesbian tv show and I can’t wait to get where the author takes the characters next. 5 stars for both the story and the narration.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.com
The Bay West Social series books follow a group of friends who live in Bay West, a lesbian community in Staten Island, NYC. Even though each novel presents a couple, the romantic misadventures of one of the characters, Meg McTiernan, is featured throughout the whole series. ‘Serious Potential’ features California golfer Tracy Allen and Bay West resident Dr. Jennifer Betsy.
I never thought I’d say this but what I love about this series is all the lesbian drama. I normally have low tolerance with dramatic plots but in this series, the stories seem so real that it could describe any group of lesbian friends. And, as we know, there’s always drama in a lesbian bunch.
What makes this series so special is that Ms. Cummings describes the group dynamics with great skill. There are a few parallel stories in this installment: Meg & Sasha, Tracy & Betsy, Lexi & Jesse, but the author manages to balance them all so the reader can see and enjoy all the relationships evolving (or not). Every couple has great chemistry and the intimate scenes are hot.
AJ Ferraro narrates books one and two in the series and I sincerely hope she does number three too. This is not an easy story to narrate as there are a good number of main and also secondary characters but Ms. Ferraro makes all the voices distinctive and recognisable. There are also a few emotional scenes which she narrates with ease. Listening to these audiobooks is like watching a lesbian tv show and I can’t wait to get where the author takes the characters next. 5 stars for both the story and the narration.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.com
December 28, 2017
I just don't really know how I feel about this series. I do find myself invested in the story, but I also find myself annoyed that I'm invested. It's conflicting. This second book was more of a whirlwind than the first, and I'm not sure why we were taken on the roller coaster we were. It was a lot of drama, but with no character growth to accompany it, so it felt like just a narration rather than a story. But damned if I don't still want to read the third one when it comes out.
March 30, 2017
Just like the first book in this series. I truly enjoyed this book but I am not sure how I feel about the ending and I might have lost a little bit of respect for Meg. And to tell the truth the ending left me a little unsettled. Because I think Meg just settled for what was easier and not the one she claimed was the one.The ending is probably something that could be debated among the reads. But I do hope the series continues and looking forward to it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2017
3.5 stars
I'm jumping into the series at book 2 and after a few chapters I felt like I was reading a soap opera. I was pulled into the story quickly and liking the characters. Even with not reading book 1 I never felt lost but I do want to go back to learn how Lexie and Jesse got together.
One of my favorite characters was Tracy I liked learning more about her. I didn't really see the chemistry between Tracy and Jennifer and was more interested in seeing what would happen with Meg and Sasha. So I was not very happy with the ending. It kind of surprised me.
Overall the book was good. I really enjoyed the Bay West community and how they stuck together. Also how much fun they had together with all the parties and events. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received this book from Bold Strokes Books via netgalley for an honest review.
I'm jumping into the series at book 2 and after a few chapters I felt like I was reading a soap opera. I was pulled into the story quickly and liking the characters. Even with not reading book 1 I never felt lost but I do want to go back to learn how Lexie and Jesse got together.
One of my favorite characters was Tracy I liked learning more about her. I didn't really see the chemistry between Tracy and Jennifer and was more interested in seeing what would happen with Meg and Sasha. So I was not very happy with the ending. It kind of surprised me.
Overall the book was good. I really enjoyed the Bay West community and how they stuck together. Also how much fun they had together with all the parties and events. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received this book from Bold Strokes Books via netgalley for an honest review.
October 4, 2016
This is the second book in the Bay West Social series by Cummings. The first, Totally Worth It, introduces most of the characters, but there are some new additions to this instalment in the series. It isn't necessary to have read the first book before this one though, as the characters stand well enough in this book to jump right in.
Lexi and Jesse are planning a dream wedding, with or without the support of their families. Meg has the hots for colleague Sasha, newly transferred to NY from London, although Sasha is straight, or has been until now. Betsy is quietly avoiding all potential entanglements until she finds 'the one', although she is enthralled by Meg's best friend Tracy, who has just moved from LA. Tracy, a golf pro with a freshly broken heart and looking for a new career, is equally enthralled by Betsy, although her job keeps her on the road most of the year.
It's a complicated community that Cummings has built for us. The community events are less important in this book than the first, as the main characters become better developed and more time is spent with each of them. This is a better resolved book too, and Cummings has interwoven the various plot lines well so that the book kept me engaged throughout the various entanglements of each of the characters.
It is not a standard romance, with two main characters and a simple plot line of woman meeting woman, but a more complex narrative involving six main characters and group dynamics. There is romance though, and delightfully, between more than one set of characters which is rather fun. I did enjoy the book, and loved that their world was mostly inhabited by lesbians or lesbian-friendly people. Sometimes that is a lovely relief from the reality the rest of us inhabit. I gave it an extra half a star for that. Enjoy.
Advanced reading copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
Lexi and Jesse are planning a dream wedding, with or without the support of their families. Meg has the hots for colleague Sasha, newly transferred to NY from London, although Sasha is straight, or has been until now. Betsy is quietly avoiding all potential entanglements until she finds 'the one', although she is enthralled by Meg's best friend Tracy, who has just moved from LA. Tracy, a golf pro with a freshly broken heart and looking for a new career, is equally enthralled by Betsy, although her job keeps her on the road most of the year.
It's a complicated community that Cummings has built for us. The community events are less important in this book than the first, as the main characters become better developed and more time is spent with each of them. This is a better resolved book too, and Cummings has interwoven the various plot lines well so that the book kept me engaged throughout the various entanglements of each of the characters.
It is not a standard romance, with two main characters and a simple plot line of woman meeting woman, but a more complex narrative involving six main characters and group dynamics. There is romance though, and delightfully, between more than one set of characters which is rather fun. I did enjoy the book, and loved that their world was mostly inhabited by lesbians or lesbian-friendly people. Sometimes that is a lovely relief from the reality the rest of us inhabit. I gave it an extra half a star for that. Enjoy.
Advanced reading copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
October 29, 2016
We'll suffice to say I'm still hooked on the incredible series! Wow!
My Review
Meg is back and still looking for romance. She just doesn't expect to fall for Sasha, the straight girl she's been eyeing at work. But what comes from falling for a straight girl.... you got it! Drama! Then we have my favourite couple Jesse and Lexi, who are still madly in love. Can you hear the ding-dong of wedding bells? How will Lexi's parents cope with this news! There is also the hot new romance between Tracy and Betsy! And they are definitely steamy when they are together... Tracy and Betsy are fun and the sparks fly instantly. It was a great watching their love and attraction unfold.
Serious potential was another great read from Maggie Cummings. Truly loved every minute of it. I'm so glad we got more from Betsy this time round. Her relationship with Tracy was great to watch develop and their intimacy was off the chart.
Meg and Sasha's relationship led me on an emotional rollercoaster. i really liked Sasha and felt even with all the issues they where meant to be together. But when the Author threw in a Second love interest, in the form of Reina, I was so torn... I still am! I normally know exactly who I want the protagonist to fall in love with but I'm left unsure and I almost want to sit down and right a pros and cons list. I think book 3 will be epic if includes this love triangle.
All and all book 2 in the Bay West Social series was a hit. It cleared up some cliffhangers from book 1 and we have some pretty major new ones for book 3... i mean Kam Browne… really? Enough said! I have just one question for the author. Do we have a release date for book 3?
5 Stars of exceptional writing! Can’t wait to see what’s next from the Bay West Social Series.
*ARC received from NetGalley & Bold Stroke Books in return for an honest review.
My Review
Meg is back and still looking for romance. She just doesn't expect to fall for Sasha, the straight girl she's been eyeing at work. But what comes from falling for a straight girl.... you got it! Drama! Then we have my favourite couple Jesse and Lexi, who are still madly in love. Can you hear the ding-dong of wedding bells? How will Lexi's parents cope with this news! There is also the hot new romance between Tracy and Betsy! And they are definitely steamy when they are together... Tracy and Betsy are fun and the sparks fly instantly. It was a great watching their love and attraction unfold.
Serious potential was another great read from Maggie Cummings. Truly loved every minute of it. I'm so glad we got more from Betsy this time round. Her relationship with Tracy was great to watch develop and their intimacy was off the chart.
Meg and Sasha's relationship led me on an emotional rollercoaster. i really liked Sasha and felt even with all the issues they where meant to be together. But when the Author threw in a Second love interest, in the form of Reina, I was so torn... I still am! I normally know exactly who I want the protagonist to fall in love with but I'm left unsure and I almost want to sit down and right a pros and cons list. I think book 3 will be epic if includes this love triangle.
All and all book 2 in the Bay West Social series was a hit. It cleared up some cliffhangers from book 1 and we have some pretty major new ones for book 3... i mean Kam Browne… really? Enough said! I have just one question for the author. Do we have a release date for book 3?
5 Stars of exceptional writing! Can’t wait to see what’s next from the Bay West Social Series.
*ARC received from NetGalley & Bold Stroke Books in return for an honest review.
November 6, 2016
I read the first book in this series, and I liked it a lot. This book, I loved. This is book two in Cummings' Bay West series, and if her books keep getting better and better, I'll need a new scale to rate them with. There are quite a few familiar faces in this book, centering around Meg, of course, and Lexi and Jesse also make quite a few appearances. Meg has a new woman in her life, and we're along for the journey she takes with Sasha. Sasha brings up a lot of conflicting emotions for me as a reader, and I have to say that I was extremely suspicious of her motivations. Also joining the cast in Bay West is Tracy Allen, one of Meg's best friends, who joined Meg in the community when her life out west crumbled. Tracy has some issues to work through, but things start changing even more when she meets Meg and Jesse's friend, Betsy. Also, Lexi has some issues with her family after a big announcement about her relationship with Jesse.
These books have a big cast. Just like a real life community, there are a lot of people in it and a lot of things going on. Cummings has done an excellent job of keeping everything clear, and focusing on some of the important things that happen without making the reader feel like they're overwhelmed or missing anything. Again, she ends this story with not everybody getting that happy ever after that they're looking for, and again, she leaves the reader with such hope for the future that they're ready to read more. I can't wait for a book three. Definitely read this book; it sucked me in and wouldn't let me go until I consumed it. And if you haven't read book one, Totally Worth It, start with that one; not only will it help introduce you to this community, but it's also totally worth it.
I obtained a copy of this book from Netgalley in order to review it.
These books have a big cast. Just like a real life community, there are a lot of people in it and a lot of things going on. Cummings has done an excellent job of keeping everything clear, and focusing on some of the important things that happen without making the reader feel like they're overwhelmed or missing anything. Again, she ends this story with not everybody getting that happy ever after that they're looking for, and again, she leaves the reader with such hope for the future that they're ready to read more. I can't wait for a book three. Definitely read this book; it sucked me in and wouldn't let me go until I consumed it. And if you haven't read book one, Totally Worth It, start with that one; not only will it help introduce you to this community, but it's also totally worth it.
I obtained a copy of this book from Netgalley in order to review it.
October 10, 2016
I am really enjoying this series. It has a uniqueness to the story where we as the readers follow a group of friends and their stories. I really like how I don't know where Meg's story is going and that we have gone on a journey so far with her and I can't tell how her story will end, which I am loving.
I did find that some of the stories were rushed, e.g Lexi and Jesse. I like how the stories are fast paced and move quickly but I just felt some of the stories were just a rushed and left me feeling underwhelmed.
All in all I loved it and can't wait for the next book.
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
I did find that some of the stories were rushed, e.g Lexi and Jesse. I like how the stories are fast paced and move quickly but I just felt some of the stories were just a rushed and left me feeling underwhelmed.
All in all I loved it and can't wait for the next book.
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
February 25, 2017
Thank you Maggie Cummings for giving me the fix my L Word addiction needed. Very well rounded characters in believable situations. Angsty, sexy, moody and overall a lot of fun to read. I hadn't read the first. I didn't even realize this was part of a series, but it didn't matter. I was able to follow and really enjoy the story. I'm looking forward to going back and getting the first book and to future books in this series.
NetGalley ARC received for an unbiased review.
NetGalley ARC received for an unbiased review.
September 1, 2016
*The copy received from NetGalley for an honest review.*
When I read Totally worth it, I couldn't wait to find out the release date of the sequel. Maggie Cummings did all the right things with the first one, and she continues to do so with Serious Potential. I really loved that she included the other characters more, like Betsy, Tracy... As for Meg and her relationships, I must confess I was confused with the ending, so either the author wanted the element of surprise, or there will be a book 3.
When I read Totally worth it, I couldn't wait to find out the release date of the sequel. Maggie Cummings did all the right things with the first one, and she continues to do so with Serious Potential. I really loved that she included the other characters more, like Betsy, Tracy... As for Meg and her relationships, I must confess I was confused with the ending, so either the author wanted the element of surprise, or there will be a book 3.
November 3, 2016
So book two continues the evolving relationships for the ladies at Bay West. I look forward to book three where we will finally find out who will win Megs heart for good. I strongly believe we have already met her, and the ending of this book will make more sense. I have read a few reviews that are upset about the ending of this book. I wasn't upset by any of the storyline since I know there is a book three and that Meg will get her happy ending. I know who I'm routing for, but book 3 could change my mind. I wish I didn't have to wait to find out who we learn more about next.
September 26, 2016
Great sequel, I loved it as much as the first book. The author continues the story started in Totally Worth It with the same characters we loved and some new ones. It feels like the story is still not over, so I’m looking forward to the next installment in the series.
September 8, 2016
Poor Meg just saying but I don't like her with Reina I rather her with Sasha even with all her fears. Jesse and Lexi love them and I thought Meg would have said something about Kam from the last book. Anyway can't wait to see what happens next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 24, 2016
ARC received from publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I did not read the first Bay West installation. However, I easily fell right into this Lesbian Soap Opera!
I enjoyed it. The main characters as well as the secondary characters are well developed. The story line is certainly cliche'and predictable. But the banter and relationships winding through this book gives it a nice flow. Nothing earth shattering here. But I enjoyed it and would read the sequel.
A solid 3 stars
I did not read the first Bay West installation. However, I easily fell right into this Lesbian Soap Opera!
I enjoyed it. The main characters as well as the secondary characters are well developed. The story line is certainly cliche'and predictable. But the banter and relationships winding through this book gives it a nice flow. Nothing earth shattering here. But I enjoyed it and would read the sequel.
A solid 3 stars
September 25, 2017
An honest review thanks to NetGalley. So much angst, I really felt it this time, and as Meg is my favorite character, it tore at me. I love Tracy though, and once again this book was a knockout. Cummings is amazing at bringing these characters and their lives together and woven into the reader's lives.
October 31, 2017
And we're back in Bay West!
Okay, first off, I want to take a second to talk about how much I really enjoyed the start of this series, Totally Worth It, and the large cast of characters that come with this lesbian mecca. The continued vibe of a chosen family returns (and just as dysfunctional, full of secrets, and maybe even a betrayal or two), and gets more time in the sun. The new characters, and new romance, get to play out against a backdrop of the wedding of characters of the first book, and it all builds on what came before.
Much like the first book, Meg is one of our lens characters, alongside the relationship developing between Jennifer and Tracey. They have solid chemistry, they're at turning points in their lives (I really, really appreciated Tracey's down-to-Earth 'I'm very good, but I'll never be a great' awareness and the mentality and emotional maturity that created). I rooted for those two right off. And having read the first book, I knew better than to pin my hopes on success for Meg's attempt at a relationship with Sasha, and... I wasn't quite as keen on the Sasha part of the story and how it handled her as a young bisexual (maybe?) woman (especially one also dealing with massive issues at home), but at the same time, having now read all three, I can say there's a return to the themes of second chances and owning mistakes.
Okay, first off, I want to take a second to talk about how much I really enjoyed the start of this series, Totally Worth It, and the large cast of characters that come with this lesbian mecca. The continued vibe of a chosen family returns (and just as dysfunctional, full of secrets, and maybe even a betrayal or two), and gets more time in the sun. The new characters, and new romance, get to play out against a backdrop of the wedding of characters of the first book, and it all builds on what came before.
Much like the first book, Meg is one of our lens characters, alongside the relationship developing between Jennifer and Tracey. They have solid chemistry, they're at turning points in their lives (I really, really appreciated Tracey's down-to-Earth 'I'm very good, but I'll never be a great' awareness and the mentality and emotional maturity that created). I rooted for those two right off. And having read the first book, I knew better than to pin my hopes on success for Meg's attempt at a relationship with Sasha, and... I wasn't quite as keen on the Sasha part of the story and how it handled her as a young bisexual (maybe?) woman (especially one also dealing with massive issues at home), but at the same time, having now read all three, I can say there's a return to the themes of second chances and owning mistakes.
September 11, 2016
It's been two years since Meg McTiernan moved to Bay West and one year since Lexi and Jessi became a couple. Meg is still single and finds herself attracted to Sasha Michaels when they finally meet at work. Meanwhile, Meg's friend Tracy just broke up with her girlfriend in LA and drops in on Meg at Bay West to figure things out.
Maggie Cummings does not disappoint with the sequel to the Bay West Social series.
I love that she mentions the old couples as well as the new and we see how far their friendships has developed between Meg, Tracy, Betsy, Lexi and Jesse.
The chemistry between the couples that formed within this book were just as believable as the problems within the relationships.
I can't wait to see what else the author has in store with these characters in the future, assuming the series did not end yet.
Review also posted here: http://wp.me/p4Pp9O-rU
I was given a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Maggie Cummings does not disappoint with the sequel to the Bay West Social series.
I love that she mentions the old couples as well as the new and we see how far their friendships has developed between Meg, Tracy, Betsy, Lexi and Jesse.
The chemistry between the couples that formed within this book were just as believable as the problems within the relationships.
I can't wait to see what else the author has in store with these characters in the future, assuming the series did not end yet.
Review also posted here: http://wp.me/p4Pp9O-rU
I was given a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 31, 2020
A really good follow up to book 1. These must be read in order to enjoy.
November 13, 2016
Received by Netgalley for my honest review.
Back to Bay West, and I loved it, just as much as the first. Didn't like some stuff though, but that's just me projecting my own wants and opinions onto the book! :)
I love the community aspect of this book and how they are almost always doing things together. It sounds like a wonderful community to live in, I wish there were communities like that everywhere. I loved all the different stories on, except for Meg's. Hers had quite the emotional roller coaster, so I'm sure there will be plenty of people who will love that, I'm just not one of them. I was glad for her at one point and then so bummed out again. I didn't really care for what she was up to at the end, so I'm hoping that will work out better than I fear. I want good things for her!
Bay West is a community that grabs you and pulls you in. It makes you feel like the characters are your friends and you are just checking in on them. I know I will continue to read the series. Recommended for GLBT fans.
Back to Bay West, and I loved it, just as much as the first. Didn't like some stuff though, but that's just me projecting my own wants and opinions onto the book! :)
I love the community aspect of this book and how they are almost always doing things together. It sounds like a wonderful community to live in, I wish there were communities like that everywhere. I loved all the different stories on, except for Meg's. Hers had quite the emotional roller coaster, so I'm sure there will be plenty of people who will love that, I'm just not one of them. I was glad for her at one point and then so bummed out again. I didn't really care for what she was up to at the end, so I'm hoping that will work out better than I fear. I want good things for her!
Bay West is a community that grabs you and pulls you in. It makes you feel like the characters are your friends and you are just checking in on them. I know I will continue to read the series. Recommended for GLBT fans.
September 30, 2016
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Oh, Maggie Cummings, how I love your lesbian soap opera... I just wish it wasn't so long between each episode! When I read the first Bay West Social book I was completely hooked. Just enough realism and just enough drama to keep me reading furiously. The characters are charming, funny, and likable without being perfect. The romance is believable, and most of all Bay West is the fantasy lesbian community I wish I lived in.
That said....I found the end of this book to be troubling. After a fun romp, one of the two main characters, Meg McTiernan suddenly jumped from the love of her life on to someone else. The trailing off of Meg and Sasha's romance made sense, but Meg's ability to simply rush headlong into another relationship made her a less trustworthy character for me. That said, I am absolutely looking forward to Bay West Social #3.
I would recommend this read for people who love a good lesbian soap opera. If you watched the L Word this is for you!
Oh, Maggie Cummings, how I love your lesbian soap opera... I just wish it wasn't so long between each episode! When I read the first Bay West Social book I was completely hooked. Just enough realism and just enough drama to keep me reading furiously. The characters are charming, funny, and likable without being perfect. The romance is believable, and most of all Bay West is the fantasy lesbian community I wish I lived in.
That said....I found the end of this book to be troubling. After a fun romp, one of the two main characters, Meg McTiernan suddenly jumped from the love of her life on to someone else. The trailing off of Meg and Sasha's romance made sense, but Meg's ability to simply rush headlong into another relationship made her a less trustworthy character for me. That said, I am absolutely looking forward to Bay West Social #3.
I would recommend this read for people who love a good lesbian soap opera. If you watched the L Word this is for you!
October 22, 2020
Like 20 percent in... Bought right after I finished the first one. But I am so so confused and irritated that the older lesbians don't like jessie. She was the other woman with Mary right? So Mary is the bad one. The one who cheated. The one who people should hate (though unless in the relationship really no justifiable reason to hate). Jessie literally did nothing wrong. And Lexi's parents hate her for listening to a woman she loved for years when she thought she was gonna leave her gf? So I'm over this part. Otherwise I am loving this series. I mean I think I prefer a focus on just one couple but this is so different and like a better version of the l word so I am loving it.
Edit: warning: do not read this until you already purchased the 3rd one or can right after. So good but I would have been so mad and probably dropped stars had I read this before the next one came out.
Edit: warning: do not read this until you already purchased the 3rd one or can right after. So good but I would have been so mad and probably dropped stars had I read this before the next one came out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2017
It was not as fun as the first one.
The three main thread were a bit too angsty for my taste and not what I expected after the first one.
And mostly sad, because you spend the first part cheering for Meg and Sash, the second feeling low and bewildered by the end.
The three main thread were a bit too angsty for my taste and not what I expected after the first one.
And mostly sad, because you spend the first part cheering for Meg and Sash, the second feeling low and bewildered by the end.
December 18, 2018
An enjoyable read. Loved the characters and the storyline
April 28, 2020
Absolutely loved it
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