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A Swing at Love
On the fairway of life, love comes when you least expect it.
Diane Thompson is happy enough. Her successful accounting firm allows her plenty of time to play all the golf she wants and enjoy her life in small Sussex village Tynebury. She's finally over the divorce from her husband, but potential suitors are few and far between for a fifty-something woman in the English countryside.
Tamsin Foxley is determined to keep matters of the heart separated from her new teaching job at the Royal Tynebury Golf Club after a disastrous romantic experience put an end to her previous employment. She has also vowed to no longer fall for women almost half her age.
When the new season starts at the golf club, Diane and Tamsin become fast friends. Their feelings for each other quickly go in an unexpected direction and they both have to reevaluate what it is they want from life.
Can Diane overcome her fear of falling for a woman? And can Tamsin accept her taste in women may have changed?
Find out in this sweet romance by best-selling lesbian romance author Harper Bliss and her wife Caroline in her debut effort.
Diane Thompson is happy enough. Her successful accounting firm allows her plenty of time to play all the golf she wants and enjoy her life in small Sussex village Tynebury. She's finally over the divorce from her husband, but potential suitors are few and far between for a fifty-something woman in the English countryside.
Tamsin Foxley is determined to keep matters of the heart separated from her new teaching job at the Royal Tynebury Golf Club after a disastrous romantic experience put an end to her previous employment. She has also vowed to no longer fall for women almost half her age.
When the new season starts at the golf club, Diane and Tamsin become fast friends. Their feelings for each other quickly go in an unexpected direction and they both have to reevaluate what it is they want from life.
Can Diane overcome her fear of falling for a woman? And can Tamsin accept her taste in women may have changed?
Find out in this sweet romance by best-selling lesbian romance author Harper Bliss and her wife Caroline in her debut effort.
224 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 30, 2018
154 people are currently reading
271 people want to read
About the author
Harper Bliss
137 books2,409 followersHarper Bliss is a best-selling lesbian romance author. Among her most-loved books are the highly dramatic French Kissing and the often thought-provoking Pink Bean series. She is the co-founder of My LesFic, a weekly newsletter offering discount deals on lesbian fiction.
Harper lived in Hong Kong for 7 years, travelled the world for a bit, and has now settled in Brussels (Belgium) with her wife and photogenic cat, Dolly Purrton.
Together with her wife, she hosts a weekly podcast called Harper Bliss & Her Mrs.
Harper lived in Hong Kong for 7 years, travelled the world for a bit, and has now settled in Brussels (Belgium) with her wife and photogenic cat, Dolly Purrton.
Together with her wife, she hosts a weekly podcast called Harper Bliss & Her Mrs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
August 11, 2018
This may become a trend for me because I’ve been writing this a lot in reviews lately, but the whole premise of this is summed up well enough in the synopsis that I don’t feel like it’s necessary to go into further detail, so I won’t.
I had a lot of hesitation before reading ‘A Swing at Love.’ Bliss announced all over the place that this collaboration with her wife would be FTB. My initial reaction was, ‘ok, no thanks’ because, I’ll be honest, what initially drew me to Bliss was her smut. I changed my mind for one reason and one reason only; I’ve become a Harper Bliss fan. It’s not her smut that makes me read her work anymore, though it doesn’t hurt; it’s her romances that are always just on the cusp of lurid, but somehow justified by her storytelling, that draw me in.
There is nothing lurid here, really. Both characters are single with a mere 15 year age gap. That may seem like a bit of a jump, but it is nothing in comparison to Bliss’ very controversial 21-26 year age gap love stories of women falling in love with their best friend’s daughter or the girlfriend of their deceased son. This is just a little romance with a little drama. Was it exciting? Not really. Did it give me a lot to think about? Not really. What it did do, however, was keep me reading until the end, but I’ll admit to speed reading some of it because I just wasn’t enthralled enough to take my time.
I can throw a positive in here, however, and say that I did like Diane’s character. She felt realistic to me and I could peripherally identity with her struggle of being a ‘latebian’, even though I came out at 17, because she was so well written. I have never met a latebian, but I feel like the Bliss’ did a great job of characterizing Diane, making her struggle feel genuine instead of forced, and giving her just the right amount of angst; it never felt overwhelming nor did it ever feel dramatic. This is definitely low on the drama factor.
‘A Swing at Love’ is well written in terms of plotting and development, but I felt like there were more proofing errors than I normally experience in a Bliss book. I don’t know if that’s because they were in a rush to push it out or what, but it was noticeable. To make sure I’m not crazy, I finally highlighted and copied one sentence when I had had enough and thought it was worth pointing out:
“Diane had driven past it many times, especially right after Lawrence their divorce, but she’d never been inside.”
As written when Diane was making an impromptu stop at her ex-husbands house for a little discussion of ‘your-wife-is-talking-about-me-behind-my-back.’
Anyway, I’m really not trying to be a jerk. I respect all authors who are willing to put themselves out there. It’s a tough business, especially with assholes like myself out in the world analyzing every word and then blabbing about it on the internet. I really try to be lenient with proofing mistakes, but I don’t expect it from seasoned authors like Harper Bliss.
All in all, I really don’t have a clue how to rate this. I’ve always felt like Bliss was a cut above (most of) the rest in the lesfic-pure-romance/smut world because she’s controversial and that just clicks for me, but this just felt rather generic. If this were a new author, I’d probably give them high praise and rate this 4*. Because I’m familiar with Bliss’ work and what she’s capable of, I’m less inclined to be so nice. 3*, maybe?
I had a lot of hesitation before reading ‘A Swing at Love.’ Bliss announced all over the place that this collaboration with her wife would be FTB. My initial reaction was, ‘ok, no thanks’ because, I’ll be honest, what initially drew me to Bliss was her smut. I changed my mind for one reason and one reason only; I’ve become a Harper Bliss fan. It’s not her smut that makes me read her work anymore, though it doesn’t hurt; it’s her romances that are always just on the cusp of lurid, but somehow justified by her storytelling, that draw me in.
There is nothing lurid here, really. Both characters are single with a mere 15 year age gap. That may seem like a bit of a jump, but it is nothing in comparison to Bliss’ very controversial 21-26 year age gap love stories of women falling in love with their best friend’s daughter or the girlfriend of their deceased son. This is just a little romance with a little drama. Was it exciting? Not really. Did it give me a lot to think about? Not really. What it did do, however, was keep me reading until the end, but I’ll admit to speed reading some of it because I just wasn’t enthralled enough to take my time.
I can throw a positive in here, however, and say that I did like Diane’s character. She felt realistic to me and I could peripherally identity with her struggle of being a ‘latebian’, even though I came out at 17, because she was so well written. I have never met a latebian, but I feel like the Bliss’ did a great job of characterizing Diane, making her struggle feel genuine instead of forced, and giving her just the right amount of angst; it never felt overwhelming nor did it ever feel dramatic. This is definitely low on the drama factor.
‘A Swing at Love’ is well written in terms of plotting and development, but I felt like there were more proofing errors than I normally experience in a Bliss book. I don’t know if that’s because they were in a rush to push it out or what, but it was noticeable. To make sure I’m not crazy, I finally highlighted and copied one sentence when I had had enough and thought it was worth pointing out:
“Diane had driven past it many times, especially right after Lawrence their divorce, but she’d never been inside.”
As written when Diane was making an impromptu stop at her ex-husbands house for a little discussion of ‘your-wife-is-talking-about-me-behind-my-back.’
Anyway, I’m really not trying to be a jerk. I respect all authors who are willing to put themselves out there. It’s a tough business, especially with assholes like myself out in the world analyzing every word and then blabbing about it on the internet. I really try to be lenient with proofing mistakes, but I don’t expect it from seasoned authors like Harper Bliss.
All in all, I really don’t have a clue how to rate this. I’ve always felt like Bliss was a cut above (most of) the rest in the lesfic-pure-romance/smut world because she’s controversial and that just clicks for me, but this just felt rather generic. If this were a new author, I’d probably give them high praise and rate this 4*. Because I’m familiar with Bliss’ work and what she’s capable of, I’m less inclined to be so nice. 3*, maybe?
August 13, 2018
This story is told in third person and from both heroines’ point of view. A style of narration I love. As per the blurb, in a nutshell, this is a sweet romance.
Diane and Tamsin are both likable characters. The age-gap is well done. I like how it showed a person is capable of being attracted to both younger and older people.
I must admit I’m not a sports fan, least of all golf, so I did have a few reservations about picking this book up. I’m pleased to say my worries were unfounded. The story revolves around the golf clu,b but it is by no means overwhelmed by golf jargon. So, if you’re not a fan of golf, don’t let that aspect put you off.
This story is not only one of coming-out, but also one of self-discovery, and being true to yourself despite how difficult that might be.
That small blip aside, I enjoyed the insight to Diane’s son and his wife, and the exciting yet daunting prospect of becoming a grandparent, while also coming to terms with being in a same-sex relationship.
For me, this was a low angst entertaining read. The fact it was devoid of any explicit content made for a refreshing change.
Verdict - Highly recommended to anyone looking for a sweet romance
Diane and Tamsin are both likable characters. The age-gap is well done. I like how it showed a person is capable of being attracted to both younger and older people.
I must admit I’m not a sports fan, least of all golf, so I did have a few reservations about picking this book up. I’m pleased to say my worries were unfounded. The story revolves around the golf clu,b but it is by no means overwhelmed by golf jargon. So, if you’re not a fan of golf, don’t let that aspect put you off.
This story is not only one of coming-out, but also one of self-discovery, and being true to yourself despite how difficult that might be.
“Tasmin might be out and proud, but the very fact of even having to call it that was proof that true equality was still light years away – and would, perhaps, always be an illusion. Anyone who deviated from the norm only a fraction had to go through a myriad of tiny humiliations and degradations in their daily life…"Diane’s husband turned out to be an unlikely ally, so when they had a good old laugh about if the shoe had been on the other foot it rubbed me the wrong way.
That small blip aside, I enjoyed the insight to Diane’s son and his wife, and the exciting yet daunting prospect of becoming a grandparent, while also coming to terms with being in a same-sex relationship.
For me, this was a low angst entertaining read. The fact it was devoid of any explicit content made for a refreshing change.
Verdict - Highly recommended to anyone looking for a sweet romance
August 12, 2018
3.5 stars. A nice sweet romance. Not your typical Harper Bliss style. This is a collaboration between Harper and her wife, Caroline.
If you are looking for sex scenes, you won't find it here. It is all fade to black. But the romance and chemistry between the "almost 40 yr old" golf pro/teacher, Tamsin and 54 year old golf club member, Diane is so well written, that I didn't miss the sex scenes. The attraction and romance between them is new territory for both. Tamsin had been dating twenty-somethings and Diane is relatively recently divorced and identified herself as straight. To me at their ages, the age gap isn't that significant. It was that Tamsin only dated very young women and Diane only dated men.
I never heard of the name Tamsin. To me it sounded ethnic, but there was no mention of her ethnicity. I just googled it and found out it is a feminine form derived from Thomas (the twin). Tamsin in the book has a twin sister. The name is more common in the UK than the US which maybe why I wasn't familiar to me.
If you are looking for sex scenes, you won't find it here. It is all fade to black. But the romance and chemistry between the "almost 40 yr old" golf pro/teacher, Tamsin and 54 year old golf club member, Diane is so well written, that I didn't miss the sex scenes. The attraction and romance between them is new territory for both. Tamsin had been dating twenty-somethings and Diane is relatively recently divorced and identified herself as straight. To me at their ages, the age gap isn't that significant. It was that Tamsin only dated very young women and Diane only dated men.
I never heard of the name Tamsin. To me it sounded ethnic, but there was no mention of her ethnicity. I just googled it and found out it is a feminine form derived from Thomas (the twin). Tamsin in the book has a twin sister. The name is more common in the UK than the US which maybe why I wasn't familiar to me.
March 9, 2022
An engaging read. Tamsin and Diane's story has the common elements of a sweet age-gap romance, but with the bonus of a well developed arc, humour and touching moments.
I was, however, saddened that the author felt it necessary to include a preface to highlight that there aren't any sex scenes in the novel to manage reader expectations. It was an abrupt reminder that individuals on the asexual spectrum, like me, are not the demographic most sapphic romances are written for.
I was, however, saddened that the author felt it necessary to include a preface to highlight that there aren't any sex scenes in the novel to manage reader expectations. It was an abrupt reminder that individuals on the asexual spectrum, like me, are not the demographic most sapphic romances are written for.
August 24, 2018
This is the first book I have read from #teambliss… Long may it continue.
Tamsin is the new Golf Club pro in the little village of Tynebury. She’s ready to start her life again after her last job ended rather disastrously. She has sworn to herself she won’t fall for anyone associated to the club again. That is, until she meets older woman, Diane. Diane has never been attracted to a woman the way she’s attracted to Tamsin and she can’t help falling down the rabbit hole to find out where her feelings could lead.
This is a very sweet romance written by one of my favourite authors, Harper Bliss and her wife Caroline Bliss.
I am not a golf aficionado but the book didn’t overpower me with golf references and that was a massive relief. The storyline it’s self was strong and alluring, and at no stage did I feel the book lagged on pace.
The characters were well fleshed out and I particularly loved the protagonist, Diane. As an older, divorced mum and highly respected business woman, I enjoyed the moments where Tamsin left her flustered or confused by her feelings. It made Diane a much more lovable character to see her slightly off balance at times.
My only woe, and it’s a big one for me, is the lack of any sex scenes. I do enjoy a sex scene in romance novels but more accurately I like the connection that they build between the characters in those intimate moments. Plus, Harper Bliss writes hot sex scenes and her sexual chemistry is some of the best in Lesbian Fiction so not to have one was a little disappointing.
The ending was perfect and left me with all the feels. I hope Harper and Caroline continue to write together in the future because currently it looks bright for them as co-authors.
4 stars
Tamsin is the new Golf Club pro in the little village of Tynebury. She’s ready to start her life again after her last job ended rather disastrously. She has sworn to herself she won’t fall for anyone associated to the club again. That is, until she meets older woman, Diane. Diane has never been attracted to a woman the way she’s attracted to Tamsin and she can’t help falling down the rabbit hole to find out where her feelings could lead.
This is a very sweet romance written by one of my favourite authors, Harper Bliss and her wife Caroline Bliss.
I am not a golf aficionado but the book didn’t overpower me with golf references and that was a massive relief. The storyline it’s self was strong and alluring, and at no stage did I feel the book lagged on pace.
The characters were well fleshed out and I particularly loved the protagonist, Diane. As an older, divorced mum and highly respected business woman, I enjoyed the moments where Tamsin left her flustered or confused by her feelings. It made Diane a much more lovable character to see her slightly off balance at times.
My only woe, and it’s a big one for me, is the lack of any sex scenes. I do enjoy a sex scene in romance novels but more accurately I like the connection that they build between the characters in those intimate moments. Plus, Harper Bliss writes hot sex scenes and her sexual chemistry is some of the best in Lesbian Fiction so not to have one was a little disappointing.
The ending was perfect and left me with all the feels. I hope Harper and Caroline continue to write together in the future because currently it looks bright for them as co-authors.
4 stars
August 4, 2018
Very sweet romance indeed. Caroline was right, it didn’t need any explicit bedroom scenes. I loved it. Well written, light summer read. Recommend.
February 4, 2019
A romance that is light and fluffy and - as stated from the start so no complaints - is very vanilla. All very chaste but still evokes the pain and angst of new relationships.
August 4, 2018
I must say that this lovely age-gap romance made me smile in more ways than one because I really adored Diane and Tamsin! This story gave me a realistic picture of what mature women sometimes go through when they have to come to terms with accepting their sexuality and the things they would like to have in a relationship. Close family ties are a huge plus for me so this story really stole a piece of my heart because I really enjoyed the witty banter between Tamsin and her family members and I enjoyed the close bond that Diane shares with her friends and family as well. If you love stories with golf, supportive friends who possess a wicked sense of humor, down to earth and endearing women coupled with a glass of wine or two, then this is definitely the story for you!
Read
May 23, 2021I couldn't really start, let alone finish it. The narrator, Carmen Rose, had such a peculiar intonation that it was unbearable to listen to. Too bad, the book sounded really nice.
February 15, 2026
4 stars. So. Much. Gay. Panic. I thoroughly enjoyed this. I love a toaster oven, coming out later in life romance and this really delivered.
Diane is in her fifties and she’s straight but once she finds herself falling for Tamsin she went through so much panic and denial and I sympathized with her. I also appreciate that they literally only break up for an hour before Diane’s ex husband talks some sense into her. LOL. That was different and it didn’t drag out the drama and I was so glad. I loved both Diane and Tamsin so much. I found them both to be incredibly likable (Tamsin in particular…super charming) and I loved their romance. They had great chemistry and I wasn’t even mad that this was all fade to black. I don’t always need sex scenes in my romances, shocking as that sounds coming from me, but I don’t think anything was lost in their romance without them. This was so incredibly lovely and is definitely one that I would read again. It was a great time.
Diane is in her fifties and she’s straight but once she finds herself falling for Tamsin she went through so much panic and denial and I sympathized with her. I also appreciate that they literally only break up for an hour before Diane’s ex husband talks some sense into her. LOL. That was different and it didn’t drag out the drama and I was so glad. I loved both Diane and Tamsin so much. I found them both to be incredibly likable (Tamsin in particular…super charming) and I loved their romance. They had great chemistry and I wasn’t even mad that this was all fade to black. I don’t always need sex scenes in my romances, shocking as that sounds coming from me, but I don’t think anything was lost in their romance without them. This was so incredibly lovely and is definitely one that I would read again. It was a great time.
August 14, 2018
This was a pleasant read. Diane is over 50, divorced and soon to be a grandmother. She has her business, golf and some friends to keep her happy. Tamsin is the new golf pro hired at the club who had to leave her prior position. Neither of them is looking for love. Both have baggage to get over.
Most of the book is a slow burn, with the two becoming friends and feeling attracted but unsure if this is a good idea. A lot of the novel deals with the two women and their friends and family. I liked that the Blisses explored some family dynamics and coming out in a small village as well as just the blossoming romance. Plus, it is always a pleasure to read stories with older women in them, so kudos to the Blisses for this. This is a sweet romance with developed characters that is a nice change of pace.
Most of the book is a slow burn, with the two becoming friends and feeling attracted but unsure if this is a good idea. A lot of the novel deals with the two women and their friends and family. I liked that the Blisses explored some family dynamics and coming out in a small village as well as just the blossoming romance. Plus, it is always a pleasure to read stories with older women in them, so kudos to the Blisses for this. This is a sweet romance with developed characters that is a nice change of pace.
August 30, 2018
Totally enjoyed it
The story is set at a golf club, which made it a winner for me, but not too much golf is mentioned to put off non sport readers. The new golf professional is Tamsin who left her last job under a cloud. Diane is the 54-year-old divorcee who slowly falls for Tamsin. Lovely age gap romance which tells the story of a woman coming to terms with her sexuality. A slow burner romance which gave it realism to me. I was aware before reading that there would not be any sex scenes and this book did not need any, it was perfect. A well written joint writing venture between Harper Bliss and her wife Caroline Bliss. It was an enchanting pleasant read.
The story is set at a golf club, which made it a winner for me, but not too much golf is mentioned to put off non sport readers. The new golf professional is Tamsin who left her last job under a cloud. Diane is the 54-year-old divorcee who slowly falls for Tamsin. Lovely age gap romance which tells the story of a woman coming to terms with her sexuality. A slow burner romance which gave it realism to me. I was aware before reading that there would not be any sex scenes and this book did not need any, it was perfect. A well written joint writing venture between Harper Bliss and her wife Caroline Bliss. It was an enchanting pleasant read.
July 31, 2018
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
It is refreshing to read books that have one or more older characters in them. I loved the characters of Diane & Tamsin. I thought the storyline was well written. I myself am not a golf fan (I prefer tennis) but the author(s) wrote it so beautifully that even if not a fan of the sport you will still find it an interesting read.
It is refreshing to read books that have one or more older characters in them. I loved the characters of Diane & Tamsin. I thought the storyline was well written. I myself am not a golf fan (I prefer tennis) but the author(s) wrote it so beautifully that even if not a fan of the sport you will still find it an interesting read.
August 1, 2018
This was a great first time writing outing by Harper and Caroline Bliss. I enjoyed this latebian coming out story with all its joy and some angst. I thought Diane was very brave and loved the support of Tamsin and also Diane’s friends and even her ex, who would of thought. This romance coming out story goes to show it’s never to late to find happiness on this earth.
August 5, 2018
Since I heard about this collaboration I was very curious about it and with the “warning” I was prepared to find a different and not descriptive, let’s call it “tamed” Harper Bliss story. I like the premise of being a difference of age story, those are always interesting because bring something extra to the plot.
The story is about a fifty five strong woman who has her own accounting firm and she also loves and spends a lot of time playing golf in a small village in the English countryside, but after she divorced her husband Diane Thompson hasn’t tried to fill the need for love or share her days with someone. The new pro teaching at the Royal Tynebury Golf Club, Tamsin Foxley is trying to start a new life away from matters of the heart after a failed romantic relationship in her previous club and sworn definitely not to date more women almost half her age. Soon they become good friends and maybe something more, now the question is are they ready to change everything they used to believe in and create a happily ever after together?
I liked the easiness between Diane and Tamsin from the beginning, the struggle Diane had to go through is hard, her world changed 180 degrees and is understandable the fear she feels while facing all the new feelings…for a woman, and a much younger one at that, it’s interesting to see Tamsin evolving as well, having a more mature point of view into relationships and both changing the direction of their lives. It’s interesting to see the developing of this latebian coming out story.
It’s a good, lovely romantic story, recommended for those looking for a sweet romance without explicit content and great characters; this is definitely the one to read.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and voluntarily leaving a review.
The story is about a fifty five strong woman who has her own accounting firm and she also loves and spends a lot of time playing golf in a small village in the English countryside, but after she divorced her husband Diane Thompson hasn’t tried to fill the need for love or share her days with someone. The new pro teaching at the Royal Tynebury Golf Club, Tamsin Foxley is trying to start a new life away from matters of the heart after a failed romantic relationship in her previous club and sworn definitely not to date more women almost half her age. Soon they become good friends and maybe something more, now the question is are they ready to change everything they used to believe in and create a happily ever after together?
I liked the easiness between Diane and Tamsin from the beginning, the struggle Diane had to go through is hard, her world changed 180 degrees and is understandable the fear she feels while facing all the new feelings…for a woman, and a much younger one at that, it’s interesting to see Tamsin evolving as well, having a more mature point of view into relationships and both changing the direction of their lives. It’s interesting to see the developing of this latebian coming out story.
It’s a good, lovely romantic story, recommended for those looking for a sweet romance without explicit content and great characters; this is definitely the one to read.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and voluntarily leaving a review.
July 20, 2020
3 stars. Diane Thompson is a prominent member of a country club and also owns an account business. After a stereotypical divorce, where her husband left her for a newer model, she is unsure about love. That is, until she meets Tamsin Foxley, the new golfing instructor. Tamsin starts to make Diane feel things she hasn't felt in a long time, she can't help but notice how attractive Tamsin is. Tamsin does not want to get into another affair. At her last job, she got into an affair with the 20 year old daughter of a president of the club. She lost her job and vowed to now let it happen again. She still cannot help but notice Diane and her confidence.
I thought this book was good, but I did not enjoy it as much as many other Harper Bliss novels. I thought their relationship evolved way too fast and that they started to feel love to each other in pretty much a week, which is way too soon. I thought it should have been a longer period of time, especially since Diane had not been with a woman before. Everything seemed to go too fast. Truthfully, this book did not have the normal Harper Bliss steamy sex scenes, and they were missed. I feel like part of the story was missing. There is a disclaimer in the beginning so you know it will be different. I think its a weak Harper Bliss novel, compared to many of her other ones.
I thought this book was good, but I did not enjoy it as much as many other Harper Bliss novels. I thought their relationship evolved way too fast and that they started to feel love to each other in pretty much a week, which is way too soon. I thought it should have been a longer period of time, especially since Diane had not been with a woman before. Everything seemed to go too fast. Truthfully, this book did not have the normal Harper Bliss steamy sex scenes, and they were missed. I feel like part of the story was missing. There is a disclaimer in the beginning so you know it will be different. I think its a weak Harper Bliss novel, compared to many of her other ones.
November 25, 2018
I really enjoyed this. It was 220 pages and although not the longest read it wasn't bad either, and it was fun. Now, my only complaint is in the fact that Diane had these conflicting feelings that everyone has, gay, straight, or bi at one or several parts in their lives and Diane constantly doubting herself and fearing that her reputation of becoming a soon-to-be grandmother, at 55, and a prominent figure in her local, small-town Tynebury and liked at the golf club, I kept thinking, "Who cares who you're with?" "Why should you care if you're with another girl?" Now, maybe add to the fact she's never been in an open, public relationship with another woman before hurts, but she kept having that one nagging thought continuously in her head. They kept you on your toes and kept you from guessing if the characters would actually end up together. Also, there aren't any sex scenes in it so rest assured that those who look forward to a story with a good sex scene, you won't find it in this one. Just a nice little story that took me no more than 2 hours to read. It was only because Harper and Caroline Bliss agreed to not put any in there.
November 11, 2018
Lovely Read
Not your usual Harper Bliss story, but nevertheless a beautifully written story. A Swing at Love tells the tale of Diane a fifty something, whom is divorced, successful, and driven. Diane strikes up a friendship with the new golf pro Tamsin at the golf club she frequents.
Tamsin has just moved to the area after she is asked to leave from her last golfing job, and vows that she will not strike up a relationship with one of her clients again. The very first friendly face that Tamsin came across was Diane, and quickly they became friends.
The more time they spent together, the deeper they fell. Could Diane consider the possibility of dating someone younger than her, let alone a women?
Not your usual Harper Bliss story, but nevertheless a beautifully written story. A Swing at Love tells the tale of Diane a fifty something, whom is divorced, successful, and driven. Diane strikes up a friendship with the new golf pro Tamsin at the golf club she frequents.
Tamsin has just moved to the area after she is asked to leave from her last golfing job, and vows that she will not strike up a relationship with one of her clients again. The very first friendly face that Tamsin came across was Diane, and quickly they became friends.
The more time they spent together, the deeper they fell. Could Diane consider the possibility of dating someone younger than her, let alone a women?
January 12, 2019
A Wonderful Book
“But understand this: all of that passes with time. And after it has passed, you’re left with a relationship that makes your life richer and more fulfilled. The bad is just temporary, but the good comes out stronger.”
Absolutely wonderfully written, the story just flowed almost effortlessly & easily. Loved the journey of attraction, recognition, understanding & love as it developed & intensified between Tamsin & Diane— all while in the midst of a redefining self-discovery of understanding & acceptance their transformed identities, was crafted marvelously!!
Only negative comment I have is that I wish this wasn't the end of the story because I definitely could use more Tamsin & Diane & Tynesbury.
“But understand this: all of that passes with time. And after it has passed, you’re left with a relationship that makes your life richer and more fulfilled. The bad is just temporary, but the good comes out stronger.”
Absolutely wonderfully written, the story just flowed almost effortlessly & easily. Loved the journey of attraction, recognition, understanding & love as it developed & intensified between Tamsin & Diane— all while in the midst of a redefining self-discovery of understanding & acceptance their transformed identities, was crafted marvelously!!
Only negative comment I have is that I wish this wasn't the end of the story because I definitely could use more Tamsin & Diane & Tynesbury.
August 25, 2018
Four and half stars very enjoyable!
I am a huge fan of Harper's, I really enjoyed her last collaboration with Clare Lydon too. This book was a great vehicle for us slightly more mature women. A wonderful chemistry was clearly evident from the get go. I feel like we missed out on some of insecurities and anxiety Diane would have gone through sleeping with a woman for the first time. I wish that would have been explored more. Yes it was a sweet romance I did wish for a few more sexy details. I even hoped Tamsin could have meet her son. Glad I got enjoy a quaint setting and a heartwarming story
I am a huge fan of Harper's, I really enjoyed her last collaboration with Clare Lydon too. This book was a great vehicle for us slightly more mature women. A wonderful chemistry was clearly evident from the get go. I feel like we missed out on some of insecurities and anxiety Diane would have gone through sleeping with a woman for the first time. I wish that would have been explored more. Yes it was a sweet romance I did wish for a few more sexy details. I even hoped Tamsin could have meet her son. Glad I got enjoy a quaint setting and a heartwarming story
August 4, 2018
Wonderfully romantic story
Harper you and your Misses did an extraordinary job writing this heart felt story. Coming out at any age can be devastating, and coming out when your older is mind boggling. You both made this story seem real and your delicate handling of the situation was done with finis and warmth. Great book. Glad I bought it as soon as it was available. Please continue to write more Harper and let your lovely wife write hers. Wonderful job authoring this book together.
Harper you and your Misses did an extraordinary job writing this heart felt story. Coming out at any age can be devastating, and coming out when your older is mind boggling. You both made this story seem real and your delicate handling of the situation was done with finis and warmth. Great book. Glad I bought it as soon as it was available. Please continue to write more Harper and let your lovely wife write hers. Wonderful job authoring this book together.
September 3, 2018
Amazing!
This is a very well written collaboration by Harper and Caroline Bliss that explores what happens when a 50+, divorced woman discovers her initial attraction to, and involvement with another woman. Small town living presents risks for Diane when she follows through with her attraction to Tamsin, 14 years her junior. She must decide whether to pursue these new feelings or walk away out of fear of scandal in her hometown. Unlike other Harper Bliss books, this book contains no sex scenes, but this doesn't detract from it in the least. A must for your to-be-read list.
This is a very well written collaboration by Harper and Caroline Bliss that explores what happens when a 50+, divorced woman discovers her initial attraction to, and involvement with another woman. Small town living presents risks for Diane when she follows through with her attraction to Tamsin, 14 years her junior. She must decide whether to pursue these new feelings or walk away out of fear of scandal in her hometown. Unlike other Harper Bliss books, this book contains no sex scenes, but this doesn't detract from it in the least. A must for your to-be-read list.
October 21, 2018
Excellent!
Harper Bliss and her Missus have hit a ... hole in one! Caroline adds a gravitas to Harper's storytelling that gives it more weight and substance - and yet there are still light and humorous scenes which are adorable. I also found that I preferred the reserved portrayal of the more intimate moments in the protagonists' relationship. I didn't miss the explicit scenes at all; I preferred to have the details left to my imagination.
All in all, this is an excellent romance, one I can recommend. I hope the Bliss ladies continue to collaborate on more stories like this one.
Harper Bliss and her Missus have hit a ... hole in one! Caroline adds a gravitas to Harper's storytelling that gives it more weight and substance - and yet there are still light and humorous scenes which are adorable. I also found that I preferred the reserved portrayal of the more intimate moments in the protagonists' relationship. I didn't miss the explicit scenes at all; I preferred to have the details left to my imagination.
All in all, this is an excellent romance, one I can recommend. I hope the Bliss ladies continue to collaborate on more stories like this one.
August 7, 2018
Sweet but unexciting
This story was nice, but far from HBs usual. This wasn't a book I had trouble putting down. I wasn't wishing I knew these characters and wondering what they would do after the story ended. I liked the characters enough, but I wasn't as attached to them as in other stories. I guess overall the story didn't move me emotionally. Other books had me laughing, crying, rooting for the main characters, aroused, etc.
This story was nice, but far from HBs usual. This wasn't a book I had trouble putting down. I wasn't wishing I knew these characters and wondering what they would do after the story ended. I liked the characters enough, but I wasn't as attached to them as in other stories. I guess overall the story didn't move me emotionally. Other books had me laughing, crying, rooting for the main characters, aroused, etc.
August 29, 2018
A swing at love.
This was a most refreshing and wonderful love story. Harper and Caroline it is obvious you two are more of a team than that of any married couple. I absolutely loved the ups and downs in the story, after coming out in my 40's I could relate so much to Diane. I hope you do a follow up story, I would love to read more about Diane and Tamsin.
Great work ladies.
Your sincere fan Angela Lyons.
This was a most refreshing and wonderful love story. Harper and Caroline it is obvious you two are more of a team than that of any married couple. I absolutely loved the ups and downs in the story, after coming out in my 40's I could relate so much to Diane. I hope you do a follow up story, I would love to read more about Diane and Tamsin.
Great work ladies.
Your sincere fan Angela Lyons.
August 30, 2018
Indeed, a Sweet Love Story
I think that sometimes leaving intimate scenes up to the mind of the reader is good, and, for me, this book works without Ms. Bliss's skills as a writer of lesfic erotica.
think would have given the book five stars if it hadn't ended too soon (but I often find that to be true of lesfic).
This was not a "can't put it down" kind of book for me, but the story did keep me engaged. All in all, I do recommend it for fans of the lesfic genre.
I think that sometimes leaving intimate scenes up to the mind of the reader is good, and, for me, this book works without Ms. Bliss's skills as a writer of lesfic erotica.
think would have given the book five stars if it hadn't ended too soon (but I often find that to be true of lesfic).
This was not a "can't put it down" kind of book for me, but the story did keep me engaged. All in all, I do recommend it for fans of the lesfic genre.
November 7, 2018
Easy enjoyable read
A Swing At Love was just what i was looking for an easy read and nothing to heavy! You won't find hot sex scenes in this book but i don't think it needed any. The relationship between the two was sweet and maybe there could have been a bit more angst but im not going to mark the book down for that. This book had romance, sugary sweetness and the fade to black for the sex scenes worked. Sometimes using your imagination works just as good!!
A Swing At Love was just what i was looking for an easy read and nothing to heavy! You won't find hot sex scenes in this book but i don't think it needed any. The relationship between the two was sweet and maybe there could have been a bit more angst but im not going to mark the book down for that. This book had romance, sugary sweetness and the fade to black for the sex scenes worked. Sometimes using your imagination works just as good!!
October 11, 2025
Thing I liked--both characters were older. The rest of it was pretty bland and formulaic. Sex is off the page--on the one hand, frequently descriptions of F/F sex are terrible, otoh, if it was that amazing, what the hell did Tamsin do? I finished this book this morning and already I can barely remember it, but it went down easy (maybe that's what Tamsin did? Sorry, terrible joke, but here we are).
August 1, 2018
I freaking loved this book! It's not my normal sexy, raunchy romance read but more intimate. Diane & Tamsin's chemistry was felt from the start. For me it was more of a getting to know yourself and what you don't like and living for you. Kudos to Harper & Caroline on a great collaboration! Can't wait to read more from you!
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