I'm Gonna Make You Love Me

by Tracey Richardson

Claire Melbourne is a steely newspaper editor who’s just lost the biggest scoop of her career, thanks to her naïve intern’s mistake. Firing the young Ellie Kirkland for the offense was a no-brainer.
But when fate brings the two women together again, Claire finds herself questioning everything she thought she was—especially her cynical, take-no-prisoners approach to life. When she’s not breaking stories or breaking in reporters, Claire’s one outlet is to lose herself in Motown music and in the seat of a cheerful antique Mustang. But lose herself to the much younger, far-too-nice Ellie? There’s no breaking news there. Nope. That’s a story that needs to be spiked before it ever sees print.
Ellie Kirkland is at loose ends—and not for the first time. Resistant to following the path her parents insist on, she’s been trying out careers like she’s trying on outfits at Banana Republic. Now that her dream of being a journalist is over, Ellie must begin again. And the woman who crushed that very dream is the very woman who just might hold the key to Ellie’s future.

Genre: Romance
Editor: Medora MacDougall
Cover Designer: Sandy Knowles

Genres: Romance, Lesbian, Contemporary, Enemies To Lovers, Femme Femme

260 pages, Paperback

Published December 13, 2018

About the author

I'm the author of several lesbian romance novels published by Bella Books, including the Lambda Literary Award finalists "Last Salute" and "No Rules of Engagement". I'm a voracious reader, even more so now that I've retired from a 27-year career as a daily newspaper journalist.

Reviews

[Lex Kent · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 Stars. This was another solid book by Richardson. I think this may be the fifth I have read by her and the quality is always up there. Richardson is consistent at putting out good romances and this was no exception. I have a feeling most people will enjoy this.

Don’t let the cover fool you this is a modern day romance. The cover did mess with me a little bit. It makes sense when you read the book what the cover means but I do think it gives you a different first impression. Anyway, this is also an age-gap romance and on top of that you have a baby ice queen in training character when it comes to Claire. Maybe I should call her and ice princess because she melts too fast for a queen. But either way I enjoy a frosty character so it was really easy for me to get hooked into this book. On the other side is Ellie, who is a sweetheart, and it was fun watching her get under Claire’s skin.

Having two likeable characters made the romance really enjoyable. To me it’s so much easier to get lost in the romance of a book when you actually care about the characters your reading about. Both characters have their flaws but when their together you just believed it was meant to be. The sex scenes were also well written so no complaints from me.

I did think the story had a few bumps though so I have to mention them. The main part of this story is the romance and some family issues. It’s not a book were a lot happens so the pace did slow down a bit especially more in the first half of the book. If you are easily bored this book may not be for you. I did feel like the book could have been a little shorter. So what I did was I used the slower times to just get to know the characters more and enjoy the romance. I forced myself not to rush and just enjoy even the slower moments.

My last issue was I felt there was some unneeded drama, too late into the book. Considering not much happened in this book that drama seemed a little forced. It was not problematic enough to be believable in my eyes. And you could see it coming a million miles away which was annoying. I’m glad to say the actually ending was good. In fact it was pretty sappy sweet, but that extra fluff really just stole my heart so I did get over the drama for the most part.

Overall I enjoyed this more than I expected. I don’t know why I forget about Richardson until she puts out a new story. Her track record with me is good so I need to check out more of her back library. Anyway, if you are looking for an age gap romance with an ice princess, give this book a shot. I think people will enjoy this one, I know I did.

An ARC was given to me for a honest review.

[Pin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm Gonna Make You Love Me is a nicely done age-gap romance. Claire (42) and Ellie (26) are well-defined and likable main characters and their romance is developed at a nice comfortable pace. There is also a bunch of secondary characters who are more than just tools for making the story more interesting. My only real objection is the rather unconvincing conflict near the end. I understand that it was done to inject a little bit of drama, but the breakup seemed forced and out of character. Aside from that, I found this newest Richardson interesting and well-written with good pacing and dialogue. There are a lot of references to Motown music, which is not really my thing, but I did not mind.
Recommended.

3.75 stars
December 22, 2018
*A review copy of this book was provided by the publisher.*

[Joc · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an enjoyable, well-paced romance between two women with a 16 year age gap. Set in the Canadian side of Detroit, Ellie Kirkland is fired from her internship at the newspaper for failing to pass on information. She's almost relieved because she isn't journalism is for her but that means having to face the disappointment of her parents. Claire Melbourne, the editor and person who fired Ellie, is passionate about her job but not much else. In a weird coincidence, they meet again.

I kind of expected Claire to fit the editor/ice-queen stereotype and found that I was so much more impressed that she didn't. I liked that she comes across realistically as a woman in her forties with baggage and insecurities. Ellie is an optimistic, cheerful and open young woman in her twenties in spite of her tense relationship with her parents. There are some interesting twists in the family dynamics which added something different to the read.

This is another great story by Richardson and it's good to know I have one more author to rely on for engaging, well-written romances.

[Les Rêveur · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a fun story with lots of fantastic music to read along to.

When Clare Melbourne fires her intern, Ellie Kirkland reckons she’ll never see her again. But when a naughty little dog escapes home and is found by Clare, she doesn’t expect to find the owner to be Ellie. Putting their conflict aside they bond over Motown music, Ellie’s little dog and Clare’s beauty of a car… really, it’s a beauty. But Claire worries the age difference is a big reason from them to not be together. Ellie just needs to make her change her mind.

One of my favourite tropes is age-gap romance and this did not disappoint; I really enjoyed this unraveling of the romance. The pace was perfect and I hadn’t realized I had read so long until I had finished the book in one sitting.

It was easy to like both characters and the chemistry for both Ellie and Clare was there from the moment Clare returns Ellie’s pup home. This story had happily ever after written all over it from that moment on.

I really liked the side story of Ellie’s sister and I would find it interesting if there became a follow up story with her in it. I actually almost messaged the author to see if this was the plan because it just felt so right for her story to continue.

My only complaint would be the moments with Ellie’s parents and all the issues that came with them. I almost wanted to jump their sections but alas, it all turned out well.

Another fun story from Tracey Richardson, really looking forward to what’s coming next... Please be a follow up to I’m Gonna Make You Love Me. I have been singing the Motown songs from the book for days afterwards.

4 stars

[Gaby LezReviewBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Claire Melbourne is a newspaper editor who lost a big story to a mistake by young intern Ellie Kirkland. After firing her for the error, they meet by chance and realise that they have some things in common, like the love for Motown music and Claire's 1965 Mustang. Their budding relationship will have them both questioning their values and life choices. Will they have a chance together?

This book is not only a romance and an exploration of human relationships, but also a tribute to Motown music. The novel and every chapter are titled after a well known song of that era. In the author's note, Ms. Richardson says that she grew up listening to this music and it's part of her identity. I'm not a fan of Motown myself but I agree when the author says that this genre make people dance even to songs about heartbreak. It is such an upbeat music style. The tribute to that era is completed with a great inanimate secondary character: a 1965 red convertible Mustang.

Like a typical age-gap romance, Ms. Richardson has her older character pondering on the wisdom of getting involved with someone 16 years younger but, 'I'm gonna make you love me' goes beyond this. Both main characters have mother complex, low self-esteem and insecurity issues that make them well-rounded and interesting. The author slowly builds their relationship from their initial antagonism to a sizzling chemistry. Their intimate scenes are well written and Claire's body image issues makes them even more realistic.

The secondary characters are multi-layered, specially Claire's best friend Jackson and Ellie's twin sister Erin. The twins are the daughters of a lesbian couple with high expectations and the reader gets invested in their search for their own identity and independent life choices. It's good to see a lesbian couple that is not idealised in the plot; Ellie's mothers are as flawed as they come. The fact that all the names in the family start with 'E' is a bit confusing and both mothers are hard to tell apart, at least at the beginning. Two very cute dogs complete the mixed cast.

The story is gripping to read not only regarding the characters' personal struggles, but also thanks to the secondary plot that gives a glimpse into the world of investigative reporting, the role of the media and journalism ethic dilemmas. I'd say that beyond the music references, there is a bit of the author's own experience in this book. Like Claire, Ms. Richardson was a newspaper editor and the reader can appreciate the pieces of her own professional and personal wisdom which makes the story all the more entertaining.

Overall, a very good age-gap romance that explores life choices and family relationships with a side story of investigative journalism. 4.5 stars.

ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

See all my reviews at
www.lezreviewbooks.com

[MJSam · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this, but didn’t love it. This features MC Claire, who is a 42 year old editor of a newspaper and MC Ellie, who is 26 and was recently fired by Claire, but is still trying to work out what she wants to do with her life.

The two characters keep finding themselves in each other’s orbit, and eventually decide to be friends, and then move into a relationship. Most of their interactions are sweet (and include two really cute dogs) but there’s a lot of harping on Claire’s insecurities about her age and looks that I tired of.

Ellie’s family also features, she has a twin sister who has her own issues, and two over-bearing mothers that she constantly feels like she disappoints. They also all have names that start with E. This is something authors should never do, because it’s annoying and honestly just confusing. Honest to god, I still couldn’t tell you which mother was which.

Ellie also comes across as very young (and repeatedly uses the word ‘like’ incorrectly, which is a pet peeve of mine). Age-gap romances are usually a favourite of mine but Ellie seemed too young in manner for Claire and I didn’t buy them as a couple.

The ‘drama’ at the end was also telegraphed and unnecessary. There was enough going on with Ellie’s family issues, there was no need for additional contrived angst between the leads. The scene at the end with all the different ways to describe sex was also annoying (and unfortunately bled into the epilogue) and could have been left out.

All in all, this is only an average read. I like Richardson’s style and this is well-written, but it’s not her best work. 3 stars.

[Elske · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun book about two women with not only an age gap but also with very different characters and outlook. Though at times a bit slow, this was a nice warm-hearted read. Surprising how lesbianism runs in some families, two moms, the twin sisters (though one might be bisexual) and a cousin.
Recommend 3,8 stars rounded up to 4.

[Heinerway · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a pleasure to read this book. Especially if you love Motown Rhythm & Blues oldies, as in my case. And if you love dogs and vintage convertibles, as in my case again. I would recommend this book without doubt.

[Grfb · Rating 4 out of 5]

*4,25 actually and I would have rated this book with five stars if it wasn't for the last 20% when some unnecessary drama took place. Both Claire and Ellie were so likable MCs and so perfect for each other that I literally devoured this book in one evening as I couldn't put it down with all this cuteness.

I don't want to spoil the story but It's definitely the BEST Tracey Richardson book and even if it has some secondary characters that I think were over the top exaggerated, the story had everything, from romance, hot sex, mad chemistry, friendship, loyalty, laughs, moments of sadness, nostalgia and Motown music references.
Wish there would be a sequel, I would really love to read more about Ellie's and Claire's future life together.

[Heat · Rating 3 out of 5]

The premise of this book is right up my alley...ice queen and age gap. Unfortunately this book didn’t click with me, though.

Claire, who started as a bit of an ice queen, ended up being a little wishy-washy. Also, she was early forties but seemed to act much older. I did like the character of Ellie, though.

By about 50-60% I could tell what the main conflict at 80% was going to be.

This started out promising but kind of lost me as it went on.

[Tara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Richardson’s writing is easy to sink into and this book was no exception. The romance has a nice burn to it that’s slow, but not too slow, and I marvelled at how natural Claire and Ellie’s journey from former boss/employee to happily ever after was.

Full review: https://www.thelesbianreview.com/im-g...

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another marvelous story by Tracey Richardson. The main characters were lovable, and most of the secondary characters were enjoyable. If you love dogs,'65 Mustangs,Motown music and age gap romances, you'll really enjoy this book.

[Brandie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Perfect Book by Tracey Richardson!

I love a good age-gap romance. Especially if there is an ice queen involved. This book hits the mark perfectly with just the right amount of angst and a whole lot of perfection. I adore Ellie and Claire and hope there might be a sequel to this beautiful story. I'd love to know what happens in the next year or two for them all. Great work Tracey!!!

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

I enjoyed this love story. The main characters were so different but at the same time they had so much chemistry. Well written story, hot love scenes and great ending.

[Dorothy Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the things that make lesbian romances fun for me to read is quirky leading ladies. And Tracey Richardson's Motown/Mustang romance I'M GONNA MAKE YOU LOVE ME is just the ticket in that department. Ellie is good with people and animals but can't figure out what she wants to do with her life and keeps starting over in a new job or a new school; Claire is a hard-nosed editor of a newspaper who lives alone sans girlfriends or pets and is dedicated to her intensely-demanding career. The two come into contact when Ellie tries to be a newspaper reporter and Claire fires her, which should send them spinning in opposite directions. But Claire takes on a dog without knowing what to do with it, and Ellie is dog-walking for money. Despite the several years difference in their ages, the two both love Mustangs and Motown music, and little by little they face up to their quirks and admit their attraction for each other. It's a fun story, and Richardson has included a host of supporting characters, a male friend on the newspaper for Claire, along with a twin sister and two lesbian mothers for Ellie. This is a deliciously fun romp, so enjoy!

[Lynn Lawler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ellie Kirkland is a twenty-something woman doing the best she can. She is a sweet woman with a genuine heart who works hard for what she wants. She isn't afraid to go after it either. I found her to be more mature and beyond her years. She refuses to be labeled and does what she feels. I really like the way this character is developed. She shows a lot of guts in the story and I applaud the author for making her this way. However, she often gets distracted, which led to a not so pleasant place. She is respectful of others and never gets upset over things out of her control. She accepts them and moves on. I liked this quality in her.

Ellie's family members are overachievers and superficial. Although they gave her lots of love growing up, they exerted 'Tough Love'. She feels like she isn't good enough for them. She is always looking up to her twin often feeling left in the shadows. It is obvious her moms favored her twin over her, often making condescending comments to Ellie, which was unfair. But it does add depth to the story.

Claire Melbourne is a newspaper director who is also Ellie's boss. She has an eye for Ellie, although she is much older than she; in her eyes Ellie is eye-candy. Claire is into Motown music and grew up listening to the old tunes with her mom. Change is her enemy and she is future-oriented; she prefers the status quo and predictability and is set in her ways. With certain things, she comes off as a bit possessive but will surprise you with a few things in the story.

When with others, she listens with genuine interest. Although she doesn't have much of a social life. Due to her rocky adolescence, she is now unable to accept compliments. When it comes to work, she is a fearless warrior and will do what it takes to get the job done promptly.

I love how the relationship developed between Ellie and Claire. There is some boat rocking that kept me on the edge of my seat. The drama itself will keep the reader engaged. As the story progressed, both characters grew deeper, making them dynamic.

What is cool is the protagonists really get to know each other before they hit the sheets. They go on nice dates that are special for both of them. The author paints a great picture of the Detroit skyline on one of their dates. The way she describes a kiss got me going. Be prepared, though, the romance scenes blew smoke out of my ears from all the fire. It is quite the ride.

There are many conflicts with the secondary characters that also kept me glued. They are well put together and offered great loving support for the main characters. I love how there are dogs in the story and how they had a prominent role in the plot. The reader gets some education about canines.

The book is moderately paced and it took me about five hours to read. Some of the dialogs got me rolling. It is a heartfelt story. The descriptions are excellent and the reader feels like they are in the places mentioned in the book. The reader also gets to look into their heads and learn about their dreams and wishes. This is a great touch. Be warned about some rough language in one part of the book, other than that, it is beautifully written. There is some other conflict that will tug at your emotions.

[XR · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ellie sounds amazing and Claire is one lucky lady. This was a sweet story and the bonus is there are doggos!!

[Margaret L. Hedman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent!

I loved I’m Gonna Make You Love Me. Wow, employee to fired to friend to lover story. I loved the music references.

[Lisa R Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book will make you Happy!

Just when I thought I’d burned out on lez romance, I read the best feel good book I’ve read in a long time. Five big stars to “I’m Gonna Make You Love Me” by Tracey Richardson. I love our Canadian neighbors and this author.

Across the river from Detroit, the imposing city editor of a local Canada newspaper, Claire Melbourne (42yrs), fires a beautiful intern, Ellie Kirkland (26yrs), for loosing an exclusive, a scoop, on a crooked local government official. Meat and potatoes to a city paper. The story begins here.

The romance in this book is warm and beautiful. The heartbeat of this book is a 1965 apple red, convertible Ford Mustang and the iconic music of 60’s Motown (playlist found in the back of the book). The characters are all well done, Ellie is a delight. There is sexual tension in spades and the intimate scenes are delicious, a lot of great kissing description building the tension.

I didn’t need the playlist, I’m a lifelong Motown fan and have all that music on my IPad. I played it all night while I read this book. I smiled the whole time. Don’t miss this book. It’s a Golden Crown finalist for 2019.

[Doug Elliott · Rating 4 out of 5]

An almost May-September romance against a back drop of serious discussions regarding journalistic ethics. There are a couple of personable dogs to help the couple along.

[baodalittleshit · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was okay, but I think the pace was too slow and the dialogues weren't realistic enough for me

[Celina · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have to say, this had a nice and refreshing kick to it. Because not the moms being all conservative and biphobic and judgemental, coz now that was crazy as fuck.