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Shape-Shifter #1.5
Love at First Write
Award-winning author Jae penned four romantic short stories about heroines who are writers. From a reporter being challenged to write a romance to an author on a blind date in a bookstore, these short stories are guaranteed to have a happy ending.
The Romance Bet
Reporter Abby James prides herself on never having read a romance novel. She thinks they’re formulaic, shallow, easy-to-write drivel—until romance author Tamara Brennan challenges her to write one. Is it possible that Abby will find the outcome of that bet not so predictable after all?
Sex Sells
Lesbian mystery writer Mara McKinney has had a crush on her editor, Hayley, for ages, even though the two have never met face-to-face. When Hayley calls her to suggest she introduce more romance into her novels, this might be Mara’s chance to work on her own happy ending.
The Snow Liger
Like most cats, liger shifter Griffin hates winter…until her human mate Jorie asks her to help with the research for a love scene she’s trying to write.
Blind Date at the Booklover’s Lair
Even though Tricia pens lesbian romances for a living, she hasn’t been out with a woman in forever. Her best friend sends her on a blind date in a bookstore, but the woman she meets in the LGBT section isn’t who Tricia thinks she is. What will happen when the wrong date turns out to be just right?
The Romance Bet
Reporter Abby James prides herself on never having read a romance novel. She thinks they’re formulaic, shallow, easy-to-write drivel—until romance author Tamara Brennan challenges her to write one. Is it possible that Abby will find the outcome of that bet not so predictable after all?
Sex Sells
Lesbian mystery writer Mara McKinney has had a crush on her editor, Hayley, for ages, even though the two have never met face-to-face. When Hayley calls her to suggest she introduce more romance into her novels, this might be Mara’s chance to work on her own happy ending.
The Snow Liger
Like most cats, liger shifter Griffin hates winter…until her human mate Jorie asks her to help with the research for a love scene she’s trying to write.
Blind Date at the Booklover’s Lair
Even though Tricia pens lesbian romances for a living, she hasn’t been out with a woman in forever. Her best friend sends her on a blind date in a bookstore, but the woman she meets in the LGBT section isn’t who Tricia thinks she is. What will happen when the wrong date turns out to be just right?
48 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 6, 2017
About the author
Jae
132 books3,911 followersJae is the author of twenty-seven award-winning romances between women. She lives in the sunniest city of Germany, near the French and Swiss borders. The writing bug bit her at the age of eleven.
She used to work as a psychologist but gave up her day job in 2013 to become a full-time writer and a part-time editor. As far as she’s concerned, it’s the best job in the world.
When she’s not writing, she is an avid reader of sapphic books, indulges her ice cream and office supply addictions, and watches way too many crime shows.
She used to work as a psychologist but gave up her day job in 2013 to become a full-time writer and a part-time editor. As far as she’s concerned, it’s the best job in the world.
When she’s not writing, she is an avid reader of sapphic books, indulges her ice cream and office supply addictions, and watches way too many crime shows.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
November 30, 2017
This is a collection of four short stories by Jae. I’m a huge Jae fan, so I was excited to read this. However, I would have to put this collection in the average category. Nothing wrong with them, all well written, but none of them blew me away either.
The Romance Bet- 3 Stars. A reporter makes a deal with a romance author that anyone can write a romance book.
Sex Sells- 3 Stars. An author has a long time crush on her editor.
The Snow Liger- 3 1/4 Stars. This is with married couple Griffen and Jorrie from Jae’s book Second Nature. This is about a liger shifter and her wife who is an author. I think I would have enjoyed this short more if I had read Second Nature first. I did like the characters in this short so I’m looking forward to finally reading Jae’s paranormal books.
Blind Date at the Booklover’s Lair- 3 1/2 Stars. This was my favorite of the four shorts. An author is set up on a blind date in a bookstore.
Besides The Snow Liger, all of these shorts are about couples at the beginning of their relationships. There are no love scenes and the only short that even has kissing is The Snow Liger. In The Romance Bet and Sex Sells, both relationships are over the phone/skype so the characters have not even met in real life yet. I prefer my romances in person so I was partial to the last two shorts.
These shorts are by Jae so of course they are well written, I was just personally hoping for a little more spark. As always I eagerly await what Jae will write next.
An ARC was given to me by YLVA, for a honest review.
The Romance Bet- 3 Stars. A reporter makes a deal with a romance author that anyone can write a romance book.
Sex Sells- 3 Stars. An author has a long time crush on her editor.
The Snow Liger- 3 1/4 Stars. This is with married couple Griffen and Jorrie from Jae’s book Second Nature. This is about a liger shifter and her wife who is an author. I think I would have enjoyed this short more if I had read Second Nature first. I did like the characters in this short so I’m looking forward to finally reading Jae’s paranormal books.
Blind Date at the Booklover’s Lair- 3 1/2 Stars. This was my favorite of the four shorts. An author is set up on a blind date in a bookstore.
Besides The Snow Liger, all of these shorts are about couples at the beginning of their relationships. There are no love scenes and the only short that even has kissing is The Snow Liger. In The Romance Bet and Sex Sells, both relationships are over the phone/skype so the characters have not even met in real life yet. I prefer my romances in person so I was partial to the last two shorts.
These shorts are by Jae so of course they are well written, I was just personally hoping for a little more spark. As always I eagerly await what Jae will write next.
An ARC was given to me by YLVA, for a honest review.
December 6, 2017
Book received from Ylva Publishing for an honest review
This anthology contains four short stories written by Jae. All four stories involve at least one writer, some involve two (like the first story, 'Romance Bet', involves a reporter and a best-selling romance author). One of the four stories is also part of a series, the Shape-Shifter series. And at least one of the short stories has been previously published prior to this collection - 'Sex Sells' previously appeared in Finding Ms Write.
The Romance Bet
Reporter, Romance Writer, Bet, Solo POV
Story consists of a reporter talking with a romance writer. The reporter has never read a romance book, at least not a contemporary romance book, and is disdainful of the genre. She accidentally lets this information slip while talking to the romance author. One thing leads to another and a bet is made - since 'anyone' can write a romance novel, the reporter has a month to do so. Well, a novella - for NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month), since that requires 'only' 50,000 words for 'victory' (and 50,000 words, apparently, is a novella not a novel, despite the November writing event being called a novel writing event). 50,000 is, roughly depending on different factors, about 125.6 pages (if the font size is 12, font is Times New Roman, and there's single spacing (all other factors the same, Comic Sans would make it a 141.9 page book; Arial - 111.1 pages; Calibri - 105.1 pages; Courier - 138.1 pages; Verdana - 134.7 pages; it would be neat if I could write those little factoids in the font I'm writing about, but I don't know how).
Distracted myself with the idea of reading a 50,000 word book written entirely in Comic Sans. Where was I?
Oh, right, so a bet is made. The journalist, who has never even read a romance book, will write one in a month. because 'anyone' can.
Interesting enough story. I didn't really like either character, but interesting enough story.
Rating: 3.78
December 6 2017
Sex Sells
This is the story I'd previously read. I'll insert here the review I'd written for that read.
Writer, Editor, Solo POV
A woman is in public talking on the phone – specifically with her editor. She’s thinking of how to kill someone (then saying so loudly – again in public). Editor mentions something about how those books that include romance tend to sell a lot more copies than books like what the author currently writes (mysteries). They discuss this. Then fumbling over what a ‘date’ means.
Neat story. I want more stories involving these two characters. I like them. Sadly this is more of a snippet than anything else. It’s not even really a full short story. More of a snippet.
Rating: 4.15
January 18 2017
Rating: 4.50
December 6 2017
Overall rating: 4.325
The Snow Liger
Writer, Investigator, Shifter, Solo POV
Griffin, the liger shifter, and Jorie, the writer, live in snowy Michigan - as the story puts it, it's either snow time or it's about to snow time in Upper Peninsula Michigan. This is another story snippet as opposed to full length short story, but it's quite good and interesting. And, frankly, probably a lot more interesting for someone who has read the first book in the series than someone who's read nothing in the Shape-Shifter series. There just are 'things' that need to be known that aren't reinforced, that are just touched on. Like, for example, this story mentions that Jorie is a Dream Seer - said in passing in the same way that the next story happens to mention that one of the characters can read the other character's mind - said in a joking manner not to be taken seriously, I mean. Except, Jorie is in fact a Dream Seer. She can 'see' things through dreams.
The fact that Griffin is a liger (her father is a lion shifter, her mother is a tiger shifter; they don't actually use those words, but other words something like Puwar for the tiger shifter . . . or something like that) and therefore has cat like tendencies is probably something a reader new to the series can pick up relatively quickly.
But still, more of a nice little glimpse into the further lives of Griffin and Jorie for those who've read the series instead of an introduction for new readers into the series.
Rating: 4.48
December 6 2027
Blind Date at the Booklover's Lair
Writer, Hypnotherapist, Bookstore, Blind Dates, Solo POV
It is rather unfortunate that this story starts off with me disliking it out of the gate. Why? Because I really, and I mean really, dislike that pushy 'best friend' who barges in and demands that the main character go on a date. A blind date. In an hour. This is the same best friend who had set her up on a date a month ago with someone horrible; and had previously set her up with Lisa, the main character's horrible ex. I really dislike Chi Lo.
Well, no matter, that was relatively easily gotten past.
The main character has two names, one of the reasons I keep calling her 'main character' - she uses a pen name on her books, and then there's her actual name. Though it's something like the difference between Tricia and Trisha (or Trish). I'm going on and on because I couldn't actually remember the main character's name. heh. mmphs. Right, on with it.
Chi has set Tricia up on a date at Tricia's favorite bookstore. She's to meet a Jenny in the LGBT section and she'd be holding a particular author's book (not Trish) - and that's how she'd know her. And so that's what happens - Tricia very reluctantly changes and goes to the bookstore. Scopes out the woman in the LGBT section. Finally wanders over and introduces herself - they have coffee, etc. etc.
I wish to learn more of Jen and Tricia's story. Was a great humorous story.
Rating: 4.78
December 6 2017
OVERALL
The Romance Bet: 3.8
Sex Sells: 4.15 + 4.50 = 8.65/2= 4.325*
The Snow Liger: 4.48
Blind Date at the Booklover's Lair: 4.78
Overall rating: 4.34625
* admittedly I was going for the 4.33 overall rating, so I put down whatever would get me there for the second read rating.
This anthology contains four short stories written by Jae. All four stories involve at least one writer, some involve two (like the first story, 'Romance Bet', involves a reporter and a best-selling romance author). One of the four stories is also part of a series, the Shape-Shifter series. And at least one of the short stories has been previously published prior to this collection - 'Sex Sells' previously appeared in Finding Ms Write.
The Romance Bet
Reporter, Romance Writer, Bet, Solo POV
Story consists of a reporter talking with a romance writer. The reporter has never read a romance book, at least not a contemporary romance book, and is disdainful of the genre. She accidentally lets this information slip while talking to the romance author. One thing leads to another and a bet is made - since 'anyone' can write a romance novel, the reporter has a month to do so. Well, a novella - for NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month), since that requires 'only' 50,000 words for 'victory' (and 50,000 words, apparently, is a novella not a novel, despite the November writing event being called a novel writing event). 50,000 is, roughly depending on different factors, about 125.6 pages (if the font size is 12, font is Times New Roman, and there's single spacing (all other factors the same, Comic Sans would make it a 141.9 page book; Arial - 111.1 pages; Calibri - 105.1 pages; Courier - 138.1 pages; Verdana - 134.7 pages; it would be neat if I could write those little factoids in the font I'm writing about, but I don't know how).
Distracted myself with the idea of reading a 50,000 word book written entirely in Comic Sans. Where was I?
Oh, right, so a bet is made. The journalist, who has never even read a romance book, will write one in a month. because 'anyone' can.
Interesting enough story. I didn't really like either character, but interesting enough story.
Rating: 3.78
December 6 2017
Sex Sells
This is the story I'd previously read. I'll insert here the review I'd written for that read.
Writer, Editor, Solo POV
A woman is in public talking on the phone – specifically with her editor. She’s thinking of how to kill someone (then saying so loudly – again in public). Editor mentions something about how those books that include romance tend to sell a lot more copies than books like what the author currently writes (mysteries). They discuss this. Then fumbling over what a ‘date’ means.
Neat story. I want more stories involving these two characters. I like them. Sadly this is more of a snippet than anything else. It’s not even really a full short story. More of a snippet.
Rating: 4.15
January 18 2017
Rating: 4.50
December 6 2017
Overall rating: 4.325
The Snow Liger
Writer, Investigator, Shifter, Solo POV
Griffin, the liger shifter, and Jorie, the writer, live in snowy Michigan - as the story puts it, it's either snow time or it's about to snow time in Upper Peninsula Michigan. This is another story snippet as opposed to full length short story, but it's quite good and interesting. And, frankly, probably a lot more interesting for someone who has read the first book in the series than someone who's read nothing in the Shape-Shifter series. There just are 'things' that need to be known that aren't reinforced, that are just touched on. Like, for example, this story mentions that Jorie is a Dream Seer - said in passing in the same way that the next story happens to mention that one of the characters can read the other character's mind - said in a joking manner not to be taken seriously, I mean. Except, Jorie is in fact a Dream Seer. She can 'see' things through dreams.
The fact that Griffin is a liger (her father is a lion shifter, her mother is a tiger shifter; they don't actually use those words, but other words something like Puwar for the tiger shifter . . . or something like that) and therefore has cat like tendencies is probably something a reader new to the series can pick up relatively quickly.
But still, more of a nice little glimpse into the further lives of Griffin and Jorie for those who've read the series instead of an introduction for new readers into the series.
Rating: 4.48
December 6 2027
Blind Date at the Booklover's Lair
Writer, Hypnotherapist, Bookstore, Blind Dates, Solo POV
It is rather unfortunate that this story starts off with me disliking it out of the gate. Why? Because I really, and I mean really, dislike that pushy 'best friend' who barges in and demands that the main character go on a date. A blind date. In an hour. This is the same best friend who had set her up on a date a month ago with someone horrible; and had previously set her up with Lisa, the main character's horrible ex. I really dislike Chi Lo.
Well, no matter, that was relatively easily gotten past.
The main character has two names, one of the reasons I keep calling her 'main character' - she uses a pen name on her books, and then there's her actual name. Though it's something like the difference between Tricia and Trisha (or Trish). I'm going on and on because I couldn't actually remember the main character's name. heh. mmphs. Right, on with it.
Chi has set Tricia up on a date at Tricia's favorite bookstore. She's to meet a Jenny in the LGBT section and she'd be holding a particular author's book (not Trish) - and that's how she'd know her. And so that's what happens - Tricia very reluctantly changes and goes to the bookstore. Scopes out the woman in the LGBT section. Finally wanders over and introduces herself - they have coffee, etc. etc.
I wish to learn more of Jen and Tricia's story. Was a great humorous story.
Rating: 4.78
December 6 2017
OVERALL
The Romance Bet: 3.8
Sex Sells: 4.15 + 4.50 = 8.65/2= 4.325*
The Snow Liger: 4.48
Blind Date at the Booklover's Lair: 4.78
Overall rating: 4.34625
* admittedly I was going for the 4.33 overall rating, so I put down whatever would get me there for the second read rating.
September 12, 2019
The Romance Bet 4*
My favorite part of this short story is Abby and Tamara talking about whether or not romance novels are formulaic.
Or as I call it the Bradclyffe© effect: Lovable Main Character² + Steamy Sex Scenes - Inevitable Breakup/Misunderstanding = Happily Ever After
Sex Sells 4*
Review for this short story is located here.
The Snow Liger 3*
A tiny follow up to Jae's Second Nature. I probably would have liked this more if I had read the books it was based on. Still entertaining nonetheless. And who doesn't love cats?
Blind Date at the Booklover’s Lair 3*
A serendipitous case of mistaken identity during a blind date. I'm fairly certain Jae wrote this just to fangirl over Karin Kallmaker. I know the feeling ;)
My favorite part of this short story is Abby and Tamara talking about whether or not romance novels are formulaic.
Or as I call it the Bradclyffe© effect: Lovable Main Character² + Steamy Sex Scenes - Inevitable Breakup/Misunderstanding = Happily Ever After
Sex Sells 4*
Review for this short story is located here.
The Snow Liger 3*
A tiny follow up to Jae's Second Nature. I probably would have liked this more if I had read the books it was based on. Still entertaining nonetheless. And who doesn't love cats?
Blind Date at the Booklover’s Lair 3*
A serendipitous case of mistaken identity during a blind date. I'm fairly certain Jae wrote this just to fangirl over Karin Kallmaker. I know the feeling ;)
January 13, 2018
3 Stars.
A collection of 4 romance short stories with you guessed it, with a writer as at least one of the 2 MCs. Three stories are with new characters and one, The Snow Liger is with Griffin and Jorie from her Second Nature series. It was nice to revisit these two, albeit for a short time. I'm going to have to do a re-read of True Nature soon. My favorite of the bunch was probably Blind Date at the Booklover's Lair. I know these are short stories and all, but it left me unsatisfied, wanting more. At least I'm able to revisit Griffin and Jorie. The other three end at the "meet cute". I first heard this term in the movie "The Holiday". From Wiki: In film and television, a meet cute is a scene in which a future romantic couple meets for the first time.
A collection of 4 romance short stories with you guessed it, with a writer as at least one of the 2 MCs. Three stories are with new characters and one, The Snow Liger is with Griffin and Jorie from her Second Nature series. It was nice to revisit these two, albeit for a short time. I'm going to have to do a re-read of True Nature soon. My favorite of the bunch was probably Blind Date at the Booklover's Lair. I know these are short stories and all, but it left me unsatisfied, wanting more. At least I'm able to revisit Griffin and Jorie. The other three end at the "meet cute". I first heard this term in the movie "The Holiday". From Wiki: In film and television, a meet cute is a scene in which a future romantic couple meets for the first time.
February 3, 2020
I loved the first story, quite liked the second and fourth. I suspect I would have liked the third story a whole lot more if I'd read the book that the characters had first appeared it (technically it can stand alone and it's still cute, but when it comes to paranormal stories, I prefer full length novels over short stories). I'd also read the second story before in Finding Ms. Write.
The price is super fair for this one, coming in at under a dollar for four short stories. Overall this is probably a 3.5 stars for me, but I loved the first one enough that I'm rounding up to 4 stars.
The price is super fair for this one, coming in at under a dollar for four short stories. Overall this is probably a 3.5 stars for me, but I loved the first one enough that I'm rounding up to 4 stars.
December 26, 2017
This is a compilation of four short romances with authors as main characters. In this book Jae shows her versatility in writing very different stories proficiently.
In 'The romance bet' journalist Abby James finds romantic novels predictable and easy to write, until romance author Tamara Brennan challenges her to write one. Abby soon finds that the outcome of the bet isn't as important as she first thought.
With a cute romance as a setting, Jae gives us a masterclass on the technical difficulties ofpp0 the writing process and the absence of a magic formula to create a romance.
In 'Sex sells' lesfic mystery writer Mara McKinney is thrown out of her comfort zone by her editor who asks her to add romance and sex in her stories. Soon the exchange goes beyond the writing process into more personal matters.
Jae shows her skills in writing dialogues in this witty and romantic story.
'The snow liger' is a sequel of 'Second nature' a paranormal romance in which Jorie, a human author, and Griffin, a liger shifter research a love scene for Jorie's new book.
This story reads ok as a stand alone and, for those who have read the original book, it's an opportunity to catch up with the main characters.
In 'Blind date at the Booklover's Lair' never a blind date gone wrong feels so right for recluse author Tricia.
Jae plays with the common stereotype of writers as introverts and their difficulties to connect with the real world.
Overall, a well-written variety of short romantic stories. Jae gives us an instrospective view into the writers' world with intelligence, wit and a healthy dose of self-deprecation. An entertaining read. 4 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at
www.lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com
In 'The romance bet' journalist Abby James finds romantic novels predictable and easy to write, until romance author Tamara Brennan challenges her to write one. Abby soon finds that the outcome of the bet isn't as important as she first thought.
With a cute romance as a setting, Jae gives us a masterclass on the technical difficulties ofpp0 the writing process and the absence of a magic formula to create a romance.
In 'Sex sells' lesfic mystery writer Mara McKinney is thrown out of her comfort zone by her editor who asks her to add romance and sex in her stories. Soon the exchange goes beyond the writing process into more personal matters.
Jae shows her skills in writing dialogues in this witty and romantic story.
'The snow liger' is a sequel of 'Second nature' a paranormal romance in which Jorie, a human author, and Griffin, a liger shifter research a love scene for Jorie's new book.
This story reads ok as a stand alone and, for those who have read the original book, it's an opportunity to catch up with the main characters.
In 'Blind date at the Booklover's Lair' never a blind date gone wrong feels so right for recluse author Tricia.
Jae plays with the common stereotype of writers as introverts and their difficulties to connect with the real world.
Overall, a well-written variety of short romantic stories. Jae gives us an instrospective view into the writers' world with intelligence, wit and a healthy dose of self-deprecation. An entertaining read. 4 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at
www.lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com
December 13, 2017
Really liked this collection of Jae's short stories. The last on in particular, 'Blind Date at the Booklover's Lair' was probably my favorite. However seeing Griffin and Jorie again from Second Nature was kinda fun too.
It's hard to 5 star a collection of shorts. I mean Sandra could write just about anything and I'd love it, it's just that with shorts like this there's not much room for the big feels and tenders. Just not enough time.
It's hard to 5 star a collection of shorts. I mean Sandra could write just about anything and I'd love it, it's just that with shorts like this there's not much room for the big feels and tenders. Just not enough time.
January 6, 2018
ARC received from Ylva in return for an honest review.
This is a short story collection by Jae. Her stories are always good, but these are very short. Even though I’m a fam of Jae’s Second Nature series, the Snow Liger was my least favourite of this collection, probably due to the fact that if I’m revisiting characters I like to spend a bit more time with them.
The other three are all entertaining (and sweet/cute) stories, with The Romance Bet being my favourite. Jae has been known to flesh out a short story into a novella, and that would be my pick of these stories.
This is a short story collection by Jae. Her stories are always good, but these are very short. Even though I’m a fam of Jae’s Second Nature series, the Snow Liger was my least favourite of this collection, probably due to the fact that if I’m revisiting characters I like to spend a bit more time with them.
The other three are all entertaining (and sweet/cute) stories, with The Romance Bet being my favourite. Jae has been known to flesh out a short story into a novella, and that would be my pick of these stories.
February 1, 2018
OK, so first of I want you to know that I like Jae as a writer and I don't think she's written a book I haven't read. And now for the But! This one I found good but not as good as all her others.
This book is a compilation of four short stories which I did enjoy. But none grabbed me. I hope that makes sense. They are a nice easy read that you don't have to really think about. All of the stories contain at least one writer and all are romance.
Although I have only given this book 3 stars it is not really a criticism. It's more that they were too short. They left you wanting more. But it's Jae so she is easy to recommend. In my opinion you can't really go wrong with Jae so yes I would say give this a go. Enjoy!
*ARC provided by publisher via Ylva Publishing*
This book is a compilation of four short stories which I did enjoy. But none grabbed me. I hope that makes sense. They are a nice easy read that you don't have to really think about. All of the stories contain at least one writer and all are romance.
Although I have only given this book 3 stars it is not really a criticism. It's more that they were too short. They left you wanting more. But it's Jae so she is easy to recommend. In my opinion you can't really go wrong with Jae so yes I would say give this a go. Enjoy!
*ARC provided by publisher via Ylva Publishing*
December 8, 2017
Jae is one of my favorite authors. Despite that I’m not that much in short stories, I’ve given this one a try. The four stories are well written as always by Jae. And some of them I would have loved as a novel not just as a short story.
The Romance Bet: I liked the two main characters, the snobby journalist who thinks everybody can easely write a romance and the romance writer who will teach her how it really works. The dialogues were fun and unfortunately for me, the story was too short. I want to read more about the two. 4 stars.
Sex Sells: Writer with a long time crush on her editor is talking about her work in progress on her phone with the editor, meanwhile sitting in a coffee shop. The talk was funny and I could imagen the wondering glances she got from the other customers. 3,5 stars
The Snow Liger: I’m not a big fan of paranormal stories, so I had a little handicap there. But I must say it was OK for me. This one is a really short short story and I had a moment to understand the basics about Griffin and Jorie. 3 stars
Blind Date at the Booklover’s Lair: This is my favorite. I really liked the main characters Tricia and Jen. The setting was great and also the second character Chi Lo was funny. I would love to read a full novel about these two women. It would be fun. 4,5 stars
My overall rating 3,75 stars
Thanks to Ylva for receiving an ARC for a honest review.
The Romance Bet: I liked the two main characters, the snobby journalist who thinks everybody can easely write a romance and the romance writer who will teach her how it really works. The dialogues were fun and unfortunately for me, the story was too short. I want to read more about the two. 4 stars.
Sex Sells: Writer with a long time crush on her editor is talking about her work in progress on her phone with the editor, meanwhile sitting in a coffee shop. The talk was funny and I could imagen the wondering glances she got from the other customers. 3,5 stars
The Snow Liger: I’m not a big fan of paranormal stories, so I had a little handicap there. But I must say it was OK for me. This one is a really short short story and I had a moment to understand the basics about Griffin and Jorie. 3 stars
Blind Date at the Booklover’s Lair: This is my favorite. I really liked the main characters Tricia and Jen. The setting was great and also the second character Chi Lo was funny. I would love to read a full novel about these two women. It would be fun. 4,5 stars
My overall rating 3,75 stars
Thanks to Ylva for receiving an ARC for a honest review.
December 6, 2017
My only complaint is that they're too short, because I'm greedy and would easily read full length novels of all these stories! I love Jae's writing, she has an incredible way of getting you to connect with the characters immediately.
The Romance Bet was my favourite story. If I had to pick just one to beg Jae to write more of, it would be this one! I loved the chemistry between the two women, it sizzled even through facetime. It was amazing. Also, reading this short story, made me so so freaking proud to be a romance writer and a romance reader. If you're looking for some inspiration to write your next chapter or edit your WIP, take a few minutes to read this short story because you'll find your inspiration right here! And some good writing advice at the same time!
I didn't connect as much with The Snow Liger, because the two characters were already in a relationship. This short follows Jae's full length novel Second Nature where the characters meet, which I have yet to read but I will now!
Sex Sells and Blind Date at the Booklover’s Lair were both super cute as well!
I received an ARC from YLVA in exchange for an honest review.
The Romance Bet was my favourite story. If I had to pick just one to beg Jae to write more of, it would be this one! I loved the chemistry between the two women, it sizzled even through facetime. It was amazing. Also, reading this short story, made me so so freaking proud to be a romance writer and a romance reader. If you're looking for some inspiration to write your next chapter or edit your WIP, take a few minutes to read this short story because you'll find your inspiration right here! And some good writing advice at the same time!
I didn't connect as much with The Snow Liger, because the two characters were already in a relationship. This short follows Jae's full length novel Second Nature where the characters meet, which I have yet to read but I will now!
Sex Sells and Blind Date at the Booklover’s Lair were both super cute as well!
I received an ARC from YLVA in exchange for an honest review.
December 19, 2017
This was a very satisfying group of short stories. I think my favorite was Blind Date at the Booklover's Lair. It was cute and I always enjoy mistaken identity that lead to something more. Almost like it's fate when someone meets someone else they were not supposed to. It was also great seeing old friends like Griffin and Jorie. I always love to check in with characters that I've loved from Jae other's novels. This was overall a really fun and quick read. I'd suggest it to anyone that loves to read about authors and their love lives.
August 26, 2020
4 short stories - 3 good and one you what? What is a liger shifter anyhow? And why is such a great writer such as Jae writing about such things. Her les-rom is the best - my desert island author. Keep to that Jae.
August 15, 2019
Excellent!
Great short stories about four writers. Each well constructed and they all read smoothly. I really enjoyed the variety of the stories, the characters and the settings.
Great short stories about four writers. Each well constructed and they all read smoothly. I really enjoyed the variety of the stories, the characters and the settings.
May 9, 2025
Great collection of short stories. Each one was a delightful little bite sized bit of fiction. For most of them, you would have wanted to have read the corresponding book or else the short wouldn’t make very much sense.
These were delightful but short, not much else to say. I would absolutely read them if you have read the corresponding novels (which are all great!).
These were delightful but short, not much else to say. I would absolutely read them if you have read the corresponding novels (which are all great!).
December 7, 2017
Love at First Write by Jae is a cute collection of 4 short stories involving writers. It’s a light and sweet collection. Jae’s books are always well-written and this one is no different. It’s more of an appetizer than the main course as it leaves me wanting more. If your looking for cute, fast, well-written reads this is definitely the book for you. I received an arc in exchange for my honest review.
March 17, 2018
Cute
Well written short stories that despite not being very long give a good sense of the characters and the relationship between them.
Well written short stories that despite not being very long give a good sense of the characters and the relationship between them.
December 12, 2017
I love Jae's writing so I was looking forward to reading these short stories. Unfortunately they just left me wanting more, in the sense of Is that all there is? rather than I can't wait for the next one.
There are only four short stories in this collection, and they are short -- only 19,000 words total. To be fair, though, the brevity is reflected in the very cheap price of this book. The stories are loosely connected by the theme of being about writers. My favourite story was the first one The Romance Bet and I'd give that 4.5 stars. Blind Date at the Booklover’s Lair is 4 stars and the other two are 3 star stories. I've given the entire thing 3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars but I do think Jae has done much better work.
Note: I was given an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
There are only four short stories in this collection, and they are short -- only 19,000 words total. To be fair, though, the brevity is reflected in the very cheap price of this book. The stories are loosely connected by the theme of being about writers. My favourite story was the first one The Romance Bet and I'd give that 4.5 stars. Blind Date at the Booklover’s Lair is 4 stars and the other two are 3 star stories. I've given the entire thing 3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars but I do think Jae has done much better work.
Note: I was given an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 13, 2017
This was a cute easy read. I really enjoyed all of the stories in this collection.
Would love to see more from some of the characters in these stories. And definitely didnt want the stories to end.
If you looking for something cute to read this book is for you
Would love to see more from some of the characters in these stories. And definitely didnt want the stories to end.
If you looking for something cute to read this book is for you
August 16, 2021
This book contains four short stories, but one of them is clearly an addition to another one of the authors previous stories, so i will only comment on the other three stories. Before talking about each individual story, i will say that this is worth buying. For the dollar i paid, i had a great time. My more detailed opinions aside, these are worth reading for any fan of lesfic. That said, i will now talk about the three stand alone stories individually.
The Romance Bet:
I thought this was the most interesting out of the short stories. I like the basic premise and enjoyed the dialogue and chemistry between the characters. What i found to be interesting is the conversations about writing and storytelling. Not being a writer myself, maybe my opinion on what writing is good is irrelevant, but i cant help but disagree with some of what the author character has to say in this one. For example, the point she makes about needing conflict in a romance. I agree that conflict is good to have, but she frames it in a way i disagree with. But even then, i think thats a generalization that isnt always true. One of my favorite stories is a lesbian romance manga called girlfriends. To me, a big part of the point of the story is that there isnt any real reason they shouldnt be together. The idea being that really the only thing that prevented them from being together was the idea that they couldnt rather than any physical reality preventing it. You can call that conflict if you want, but at the very least i dont think its a conflict in the same way as the author character in the story describes it.
I guess the concept that anything 'needs' to be in a story really bothers me. To me, the only thing that is needed in a book is words that tell a story, how a person goes about it is up to them. I understand this is a romantic perspective and unrealistic when looking at the reality that is the publishing world, but i think this perspective fits within the scope of what the reporter character was doing. Maybe authors disagree with my amateur opinion, i dont know. But regardless i did enjoy the character interactions, it had some cute and funny moments. I really enjoyed thinking about the issue of writing because it was discussed in the story. It was fun seeing the reporter learn that writing isnt easy.
Sex Sells:
Very funny story. I love the way things were discribed in this one and the romance was sweet. I wish this one would be made into a longer story because i think there is alot more to be done with the concept. I like the idea of a writer/publisher romance. I really enjoyed how the story played out. Its somewhat subversive in how it resolves the conflict near the end.
Blinddate at the Booklovers lair:
Probably the one i enjoyed the most. More of a straightforward romance than a comedy, but i like that. A blind date romance with a twist to it. I found the main character really relatable in how she values comfort over style and her love of books and hot chocolate. My only real issue with it is the fact that the main character starts questioning how she writes after a brief exchange with a stranger about her writing. The story clearly indicates she has written at least a few stories that got published, its hard to believe one brief comment about her writing would make her suddenly decide to change how she writes. This wouldnt be as big of an issue in a longer story where you can build to her valuing Jens opinion. More of a percieved issue than something that really bothered me. A fun story overall.
The Romance Bet:
I thought this was the most interesting out of the short stories. I like the basic premise and enjoyed the dialogue and chemistry between the characters. What i found to be interesting is the conversations about writing and storytelling. Not being a writer myself, maybe my opinion on what writing is good is irrelevant, but i cant help but disagree with some of what the author character has to say in this one. For example, the point she makes about needing conflict in a romance. I agree that conflict is good to have, but she frames it in a way i disagree with. But even then, i think thats a generalization that isnt always true. One of my favorite stories is a lesbian romance manga called girlfriends. To me, a big part of the point of the story is that there isnt any real reason they shouldnt be together. The idea being that really the only thing that prevented them from being together was the idea that they couldnt rather than any physical reality preventing it. You can call that conflict if you want, but at the very least i dont think its a conflict in the same way as the author character in the story describes it.
I guess the concept that anything 'needs' to be in a story really bothers me. To me, the only thing that is needed in a book is words that tell a story, how a person goes about it is up to them. I understand this is a romantic perspective and unrealistic when looking at the reality that is the publishing world, but i think this perspective fits within the scope of what the reporter character was doing. Maybe authors disagree with my amateur opinion, i dont know. But regardless i did enjoy the character interactions, it had some cute and funny moments. I really enjoyed thinking about the issue of writing because it was discussed in the story. It was fun seeing the reporter learn that writing isnt easy.
Sex Sells:
Very funny story. I love the way things were discribed in this one and the romance was sweet. I wish this one would be made into a longer story because i think there is alot more to be done with the concept. I like the idea of a writer/publisher romance. I really enjoyed how the story played out. Its somewhat subversive in how it resolves the conflict near the end.
Blinddate at the Booklovers lair:
Probably the one i enjoyed the most. More of a straightforward romance than a comedy, but i like that. A blind date romance with a twist to it. I found the main character really relatable in how she values comfort over style and her love of books and hot chocolate. My only real issue with it is the fact that the main character starts questioning how she writes after a brief exchange with a stranger about her writing. The story clearly indicates she has written at least a few stories that got published, its hard to believe one brief comment about her writing would make her suddenly decide to change how she writes. This wouldnt be as big of an issue in a longer story where you can build to her valuing Jens opinion. More of a percieved issue than something that really bothered me. A fun story overall.
March 30, 2021
For book lovers among us.
Excellent stories from one of the best lesbian romance writers.
I laughed and found interesting new facts along the way to each stories romantic interludes.
Highly enjoyable.
I do wish sexsells made it to a novel though...
Excellent stories from one of the best lesbian romance writers.
I laughed and found interesting new facts along the way to each stories romantic interludes.
Highly enjoyable.
I do wish sexsells made it to a novel though...
December 17, 2020
4.5 stars: Four sweet, romantic short stories about writers.
What was the book about?
Love at First Write is a collection of 4 short stories by Jae, each featuring a character who is a writer.
The Romance Bet
Abby James is a reporter who is writing a story about the romance industry, and in doing so interviews romance author Tamara Brennan over the phone. She gets herself into a pickle suggesting that writing romance is easy/anyone can do it … and is promptly challenged to do just that. Lucky for Abby, Tamara is happy to share her wisdom.
Sex Sells
Mara McKinney is an author of lesbian mysteries who has a crush on her editor, Hayley. This story is a phone conversation between the two when Hayley calls to encourage Mara to try out the romance genre.
The Snow Liger
A follow up on Griffin and Jorie from Natural Family Disasters – Griffin is a liger shifter lamenting winter in Michigan while Jorie (her human “mate”) is writing. Things get more interesting, and a lot colder, when Jorie asks for help with her research.
Blind Date at the Booklover’s Lair
Tricia is a lesbian romance author who is not so lucky in love herself. Her best friend sets her up on a blind date and she reluctantly heads to the bookstore’s LGBT section to meet her date. She finds her and has a surprisingly good time, only realizing that her date wasn’t who she thought she was after they had parted ways …
Featured Tropes:
Writers, Bet, Paranormal/shifter, Blind Date
Book Strengths:
Jae is an excellent author, and her short stories are no exception. Each of the stories featured in Love at First Write is well paced, the characters are well developed for such short stories, and the meet cutes are … well, cute. I love Jae’s writing and these stories were no exception. With the exception of The Snow Liger, each of the stories had me wishing for more about the characters! This was exactly what I was hoping it would be when I picked it up – light, sweet, well-written, and enjoyable from beginning to end.
Book Weaknesses:
These are short stories, but I wish that at least the first and last ones were longer! I got a little sad realizing I wouldn’t get to read more about Abby and Tamara or Tricia and Jen. And though I didn’t pick this up looking for erotica, I did find all 4 of the stories to be rather tamer than anticipated in the heat department.
Character Chemistry:
Jae is excellent at character development and it shows in each and every story in this collection. I felt the chemistry of all 4 pairings, even without any true love scenes at all.
Heat Rating:
1 flame (sorry folks, no sex in this one)
Wrap up:
Love at First Write is a very enjoyable collection of short stories about storytellers. Jae delivers in the way she always does – likable characters with good chemistry and excellent writing.
See full review at https://lesreveur.com/2020/01/31/love...
I was provided with an ARC and have voluntarily left an honest review.
What was the book about?
Love at First Write is a collection of 4 short stories by Jae, each featuring a character who is a writer.
The Romance Bet
Abby James is a reporter who is writing a story about the romance industry, and in doing so interviews romance author Tamara Brennan over the phone. She gets herself into a pickle suggesting that writing romance is easy/anyone can do it … and is promptly challenged to do just that. Lucky for Abby, Tamara is happy to share her wisdom.
Sex Sells
Mara McKinney is an author of lesbian mysteries who has a crush on her editor, Hayley. This story is a phone conversation between the two when Hayley calls to encourage Mara to try out the romance genre.
The Snow Liger
A follow up on Griffin and Jorie from Natural Family Disasters – Griffin is a liger shifter lamenting winter in Michigan while Jorie (her human “mate”) is writing. Things get more interesting, and a lot colder, when Jorie asks for help with her research.
Blind Date at the Booklover’s Lair
Tricia is a lesbian romance author who is not so lucky in love herself. Her best friend sets her up on a blind date and she reluctantly heads to the bookstore’s LGBT section to meet her date. She finds her and has a surprisingly good time, only realizing that her date wasn’t who she thought she was after they had parted ways …
Featured Tropes:
Writers, Bet, Paranormal/shifter, Blind Date
Book Strengths:
Jae is an excellent author, and her short stories are no exception. Each of the stories featured in Love at First Write is well paced, the characters are well developed for such short stories, and the meet cutes are … well, cute. I love Jae’s writing and these stories were no exception. With the exception of The Snow Liger, each of the stories had me wishing for more about the characters! This was exactly what I was hoping it would be when I picked it up – light, sweet, well-written, and enjoyable from beginning to end.
Book Weaknesses:
These are short stories, but I wish that at least the first and last ones were longer! I got a little sad realizing I wouldn’t get to read more about Abby and Tamara or Tricia and Jen. And though I didn’t pick this up looking for erotica, I did find all 4 of the stories to be rather tamer than anticipated in the heat department.
Character Chemistry:
Jae is excellent at character development and it shows in each and every story in this collection. I felt the chemistry of all 4 pairings, even without any true love scenes at all.
Heat Rating:
1 flame (sorry folks, no sex in this one)
Wrap up:
Love at First Write is a very enjoyable collection of short stories about storytellers. Jae delivers in the way she always does – likable characters with good chemistry and excellent writing.
See full review at https://lesreveur.com/2020/01/31/love...
I was provided with an ARC and have voluntarily left an honest review.
December 23, 2017
I like the short little stories in this book.
The Romance Bet was a short story about Abby, a reporter, and Tamara, a romance writer. Abby looks down at romance novels and the whole genre. Tamara challenges Abby to write a romance novel in a month's time. The two of them grow close over that month. Will Abby be able to win the bet?
I loved the chemistry between the two characters in this story. Definitely left me wanting to read more about them.
Sex Sells: The short story was about an author, Mara, and an editor, Hayley. The story follows a phone conversation they have. Mara has a crush on Hayley, but doesn't know if she should do something about it or not.
This story drew me in with the first lines about murdering someone. It was definitely a good way to catch the reader's attention.
The Snow Liger: This story was about Griffin, a shapeshifting liger, and Jorie, a writer. Jorie asks Griffin to help her solve one of her writing problems by acting out a scene she was working on.
This one made me feel like I was thrown into a world of characters that I really did not know. But it was still entertaining.
Blind Date at the Booklover's Liar: The book is about Tricia, a writer, and Jen, a hypnotherapist. Tricia is convinced to go on a blind date with a woman named Jennifer. Somehow she ends up meeting the wrong Jennifer and then has to try to find the Jen who she had a first date with. Will Tricia be able to find her?
I really enjoyed this one. I immediately knew something was off about their first meeting so I wasn't surprised to learn Tricia went on a date with the wrong Jen. I found myself hoping Tricia would find her.
Overall these short stories were really good. Definitely recommend if you're look for a short easy read.
The Romance Bet was a short story about Abby, a reporter, and Tamara, a romance writer. Abby looks down at romance novels and the whole genre. Tamara challenges Abby to write a romance novel in a month's time. The two of them grow close over that month. Will Abby be able to win the bet?
I loved the chemistry between the two characters in this story. Definitely left me wanting to read more about them.
Sex Sells: The short story was about an author, Mara, and an editor, Hayley. The story follows a phone conversation they have. Mara has a crush on Hayley, but doesn't know if she should do something about it or not.
This story drew me in with the first lines about murdering someone. It was definitely a good way to catch the reader's attention.
The Snow Liger: This story was about Griffin, a shapeshifting liger, and Jorie, a writer. Jorie asks Griffin to help her solve one of her writing problems by acting out a scene she was working on.
This one made me feel like I was thrown into a world of characters that I really did not know. But it was still entertaining.
Blind Date at the Booklover's Liar: The book is about Tricia, a writer, and Jen, a hypnotherapist. Tricia is convinced to go on a blind date with a woman named Jennifer. Somehow she ends up meeting the wrong Jennifer and then has to try to find the Jen who she had a first date with. Will Tricia be able to find her?
I really enjoyed this one. I immediately knew something was off about their first meeting so I wasn't surprised to learn Tricia went on a date with the wrong Jen. I found myself hoping Tricia would find her.
Overall these short stories were really good. Definitely recommend if you're look for a short easy read.
December 14, 2017
I was given this ARC by the publisher in exchange for an Honest Review.
Um, I apparently am reading all the epistolary stories now? Heh (okay, okay, so it's only two).
The first story in this collection is The Romance Bet. It's the story of Abby and Tamara. Abby's a reporter and Tamara's a romance writer. They make a bet. Can Abby write a romance novel ('cause in her head, she thinks it's easy) in one month for NaNoWriMo? It was a cute story and I thought it was nice that I wasn't sure if it was going to end happily ever after or not.
The second story was Sex Sells, and boy did that start out differently than usual, heh. Mara is a writer who has a crush on her editor. They talk over the phone and then maybe make a date, maybe they don't because they get cut off. There's more and it's super cute, but, I don't want to spoil it. This was a short and super sweet story.
The Snow Liger is story number three. Jorie and Griffin's story confused me a bit. Griffin's a Liger and Jorie a writer, and I didn't realize it was an add-on to one of Jae's previous books, Second Nature. Still, not having read that book, the story was still definitely cute.
Story number four, Blind Date in the Booklover's Lair. Tricia is a writer whose best friend sends her on a blind date which is going to be in a bookstore (sounds good so far). Jenny is the date, and Tricia doesn't know what Jenny looks like or anything, and so she goes to the store and stumbles onto a Jenny. Heh, it's a sort of Meet-Uh oh instead of a Meet cute.
I liked all the stories in the collection, but, my favorite was definitely the last one. I was totally surprised by the twist and that doesn't happen often. Very cool, and of course, for the stories that didn't have full novels that go with them, I want more, more more.
Um, I apparently am reading all the epistolary stories now? Heh (okay, okay, so it's only two).
The first story in this collection is The Romance Bet. It's the story of Abby and Tamara. Abby's a reporter and Tamara's a romance writer. They make a bet. Can Abby write a romance novel ('cause in her head, she thinks it's easy) in one month for NaNoWriMo? It was a cute story and I thought it was nice that I wasn't sure if it was going to end happily ever after or not.
The second story was Sex Sells, and boy did that start out differently than usual, heh. Mara is a writer who has a crush on her editor. They talk over the phone and then maybe make a date, maybe they don't because they get cut off. There's more and it's super cute, but, I don't want to spoil it. This was a short and super sweet story.
The Snow Liger is story number three. Jorie and Griffin's story confused me a bit. Griffin's a Liger and Jorie a writer, and I didn't realize it was an add-on to one of Jae's previous books, Second Nature. Still, not having read that book, the story was still definitely cute.
Story number four, Blind Date in the Booklover's Lair. Tricia is a writer whose best friend sends her on a blind date which is going to be in a bookstore (sounds good so far). Jenny is the date, and Tricia doesn't know what Jenny looks like or anything, and so she goes to the store and stumbles onto a Jenny. Heh, it's a sort of Meet-Uh oh instead of a Meet cute.
I liked all the stories in the collection, but, my favorite was definitely the last one. I was totally surprised by the twist and that doesn't happen often. Very cool, and of course, for the stories that didn't have full novels that go with them, I want more, more more.
May 21, 2022
I read a novel Jae cowrite a couple of years back and really enjoyed it, and reading this collection of short stories reminds me I definitely need to seek out more of her work. Fortunately one of the four stories is a sort of epilogue scene to one of her novels, and I also found some other books of hers I need to check out by browsing Goodreads.
The four stories here are short and sweet and a lot of fun. All are focused on f/f romances involving writers, and the first two both take place remotely which is kind of appropriate for pandemic reading. The first story, The Romance Bet, is about a journalist who interviews a romance author and feels like she can write romance just as well as the professional. The author challenges the journalist to NaNoWriMo, and they begin to bond and then fall in love over the course of a month virtually corresponding while they write. I especially enjoyed the discussion of romance novel tropes and the importance of interpersonal conflict, such as the romance novelist pointing out that it’s okay for the protagonists to sleep together early on if it will act as a source of conflict.
The second story depicts a phone call between a novelist and her editor as they discuss whether to add more romantic aspects to the author’s mystery series. Of course the writer has a massive crush on her editor, and so there’s a lot of subtext running through the whole conversation - one that takes place with an audience because it’s in a coffee shop. The third story is the sort of epilogue to one of Jae’s shifter romances, and it definitely had the least impact on me but it does make me curious to read the novel and find out how the characters came together. Plus a liger shifter is a fun idea.
The last story is probably the cutest and the most romance novely. It’s about an author who’s set up on a blind date at a bookstore, with the key information that her date will be looking at her books in the lesbian romance section. And indeed the heroine meets a wonderful entertaining woman and they really hit it off and she figures she already has her phone number so they don’t need to swap contact info. But in classic wacky fashion, it turns out that the woman wasn’t her blind date but somebody with the same name, and it’s impossible to find her again. One thing I enjoyed was that the heroine tries to ask the people working at the bookstore and they very reasonably and realistically say no. Of course everything works out in the end, and this was probably my favorite of the four stories for having a bit more conflict and not happening entirely remotely.
Overall this was a fun collection, and I think at least the fourth story could be expanded into something longer. I’m definitely going to be checking out more of Jae’s books in the near future, and if you like romances about romance writers this is a fun little collection that’s worth reading.
The four stories here are short and sweet and a lot of fun. All are focused on f/f romances involving writers, and the first two both take place remotely which is kind of appropriate for pandemic reading. The first story, The Romance Bet, is about a journalist who interviews a romance author and feels like she can write romance just as well as the professional. The author challenges the journalist to NaNoWriMo, and they begin to bond and then fall in love over the course of a month virtually corresponding while they write. I especially enjoyed the discussion of romance novel tropes and the importance of interpersonal conflict, such as the romance novelist pointing out that it’s okay for the protagonists to sleep together early on if it will act as a source of conflict.
The second story depicts a phone call between a novelist and her editor as they discuss whether to add more romantic aspects to the author’s mystery series. Of course the writer has a massive crush on her editor, and so there’s a lot of subtext running through the whole conversation - one that takes place with an audience because it’s in a coffee shop. The third story is the sort of epilogue to one of Jae’s shifter romances, and it definitely had the least impact on me but it does make me curious to read the novel and find out how the characters came together. Plus a liger shifter is a fun idea.
The last story is probably the cutest and the most romance novely. It’s about an author who’s set up on a blind date at a bookstore, with the key information that her date will be looking at her books in the lesbian romance section. And indeed the heroine meets a wonderful entertaining woman and they really hit it off and she figures she already has her phone number so they don’t need to swap contact info. But in classic wacky fashion, it turns out that the woman wasn’t her blind date but somebody with the same name, and it’s impossible to find her again. One thing I enjoyed was that the heroine tries to ask the people working at the bookstore and they very reasonably and realistically say no. Of course everything works out in the end, and this was probably my favorite of the four stories for having a bit more conflict and not happening entirely remotely.
Overall this was a fun collection, and I think at least the fourth story could be expanded into something longer. I’m definitely going to be checking out more of Jae’s books in the near future, and if you like romances about romance writers this is a fun little collection that’s worth reading.
December 9, 2017
Fabulous sampler of Jae’s romance writing
This collection had me smiling and laughing all the way thru. The characters in three of the four stories are new and original, while the fourth revisits Jorie and Griffin from Jae’s shapeshifter novel ‘Second Nature’.
Jae’s talent in part is taking the romance formula and crafting stories within it that do not read or feel to the reader like ‘I’ve read this story before’; her characters are all distinct individuals and the circumstances bringing them together are fresh and creative. As a reader you enjoy the ride, assuming a happy ending while not totally certain how it will occur and what route the characters will take to get there. Having read many of Jae’s works, this collection was a delightful reminder of why I love her writing and why I look forward to reading her work when I see her name on a novel or anthology.
I recommend this collection to anyone wanting to sample Jae’s writing in the course of an evening or afternoon, and also for her current fans as another example of her skill in delivering entertaining heartwarming and funny stories. I hope Jae never runs out of story ideas or opportunities to share her work in print.
I received an advance reading copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This collection had me smiling and laughing all the way thru. The characters in three of the four stories are new and original, while the fourth revisits Jorie and Griffin from Jae’s shapeshifter novel ‘Second Nature’.
Jae’s talent in part is taking the romance formula and crafting stories within it that do not read or feel to the reader like ‘I’ve read this story before’; her characters are all distinct individuals and the circumstances bringing them together are fresh and creative. As a reader you enjoy the ride, assuming a happy ending while not totally certain how it will occur and what route the characters will take to get there. Having read many of Jae’s works, this collection was a delightful reminder of why I love her writing and why I look forward to reading her work when I see her name on a novel or anthology.
I recommend this collection to anyone wanting to sample Jae’s writing in the course of an evening or afternoon, and also for her current fans as another example of her skill in delivering entertaining heartwarming and funny stories. I hope Jae never runs out of story ideas or opportunities to share her work in print.
I received an advance reading copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
December 9, 2017
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
This book of four short stories was a relaxing delight to read. In The Romance Bet, newspaper journalist, Abby interviews romance writer, Tamra. When Abby's biases regarding the writing of romance novels leaks through during the interview process, Tamra makes a challenge Abby cannot resist. In Sex Sells, mystery writer, Mara has a conversation with her editor, Hayley that concludes with interesting results. In The Snow Liger, Griffin helps her writer partner, Jorie with a little research. And in Blind Date at the Booklover's Lair, Tricia has a rather awkward blind date with Jen that ends with an unexpected twist.
In each and every story Jae shares with us unique characters, settings, and situations, as well as some insights in writing, and in some instances, specifically romance writing. This is exactly the kind of book I like to read at the end of a stressful day, or after having read something super suspenseful, thrilling, or highly emotional.
If a relaxing read is what you're looking for, in this Jae delivers!
This book of four short stories was a relaxing delight to read. In The Romance Bet, newspaper journalist, Abby interviews romance writer, Tamra. When Abby's biases regarding the writing of romance novels leaks through during the interview process, Tamra makes a challenge Abby cannot resist. In Sex Sells, mystery writer, Mara has a conversation with her editor, Hayley that concludes with interesting results. In The Snow Liger, Griffin helps her writer partner, Jorie with a little research. And in Blind Date at the Booklover's Lair, Tricia has a rather awkward blind date with Jen that ends with an unexpected twist.
In each and every story Jae shares with us unique characters, settings, and situations, as well as some insights in writing, and in some instances, specifically romance writing. This is exactly the kind of book I like to read at the end of a stressful day, or after having read something super suspenseful, thrilling, or highly emotional.
If a relaxing read is what you're looking for, in this Jae delivers!
December 16, 2017
Four stories, different but similar. Why different? Because the characters and the stories are, obviously, different. Why similar? Because in all of them there is, at least, a romance writer and a happy ending, as it should be.
In the first two stories, the writers try to tell the other part (a journalist and an editor) that writing a romance is not just about “girl meets girl, they fall in love, there is a misunderstanding, break up, make up and happy end” but more about an expression of the characters' feelings about each other, their emotional intimacy.
The last two stories are both funny in their own way. One is a paranormal story, the other is about a blind date that starts right, goes wrong and ends perfectly right.
They are short stories easy to read and with characters wonderfully described. I think some could make it into a, at least, a novella, but that's just because I enjoyed them very much and would have liked to see more of the story and the characters.
My favourite is the last one, super romantic. My least, the third one because, even though I enjoyed the plot, I am not much into paranormal.
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing, in exchange for an honest review.
In the first two stories, the writers try to tell the other part (a journalist and an editor) that writing a romance is not just about “girl meets girl, they fall in love, there is a misunderstanding, break up, make up and happy end” but more about an expression of the characters' feelings about each other, their emotional intimacy.
The last two stories are both funny in their own way. One is a paranormal story, the other is about a blind date that starts right, goes wrong and ends perfectly right.
They are short stories easy to read and with characters wonderfully described. I think some could make it into a, at least, a novella, but that's just because I enjoyed them very much and would have liked to see more of the story and the characters.
My favourite is the last one, super romantic. My least, the third one because, even though I enjoyed the plot, I am not much into paranormal.
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing, in exchange for an honest review.
January 2, 2018
I know I say this every time I review a book of Jae’s, but she really is one of my favorite authors. I always enjoy her books. That being said, I typically do not like short stories. This is a book of 4 short stories. As far as short stories go, I enjoyed them. I still felt like I wanted more. The first short story, The Romance Bet was interesting, but I didn’t overall enjoy the characters. I thought it was a good idea for a story though. The second story, Sex Sells was my second favorite out of the book. I enjoyed the characters, enjoyed the story and would read a full novel about these two. The third story, The Snow Liger is from Jae’s shifter series. If you have read this series this will be a bonus read for you. I liked it, always looking for more shifter stories. The final story, Blind Date at the Booklover’s Lair was my favorite short in the book. This one almost made me forget I was reading a short and as disappointed when it ended. Overall this was a good read. I would read anything by Jae so if you enjoy this author or shorts, or any form of lesbian romance I would say pick this one up.
February 1, 2018
This collection of 4 short stories made me realize a few things… First off, I am not a huge fan of shorts. One other reviewer put it wonderfully - they are great appetizers but leave me wanting more. I will have to remember that I am more of a "full meal" kind of girl. Having started with that somewhat negative thought, I will say that Jae is one of my favorite authors and I enjoy everything I have read of hers, including these stories. They are all well written, and give new readers a great introduction to her superior writing. For return readers like myself, these are wonderful glimpses three some new stories and sets of characters. The fourth story is about Jorie and Griffin from Jae's shapeshifter novel 'Second Nature'. And, here is where I see the wonderful benefit of these short story collections. Having enjoyed my "appetizer" introduction to these characters and their relationship, I have enthusiastically added "Second Nature" to my planned reading list and look forward to spending a little more time with them in the near future.
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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