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Jackson Falls #1
Forbidden Promises
What do you do when you want the one person you can never have?
Get in and get out. That was India Robidoux’s plan for this family visit. But when her brother needs her help with his high-profile political campaign, India has no choice but to stay and face the one man she’s been running from for years—Travis, her sister’s ex-husband. One hot summer night when Travis was still free, they celebrated her birthday with whiskey and an unforgettable kiss. The memory is as strong as ever—and so are the feelings she’s tried so hard to forget.
Travis Strickland owes everything to the Robidoux family. There’s nothing he wouldn’t do for them—his divorce could never change that. Still, he has one regret. Impulsive and passionate, India always understood him better than anyone else. And the longer they work together on the campaign, the more torn he is. Coming between her and her sister is out of the question. But how can he let love pass him by a second time?
Get in and get out. That was India Robidoux’s plan for this family visit. But when her brother needs her help with his high-profile political campaign, India has no choice but to stay and face the one man she’s been running from for years—Travis, her sister’s ex-husband. One hot summer night when Travis was still free, they celebrated her birthday with whiskey and an unforgettable kiss. The memory is as strong as ever—and so are the feelings she’s tried so hard to forget.
Travis Strickland owes everything to the Robidoux family. There’s nothing he wouldn’t do for them—his divorce could never change that. Still, he has one regret. Impulsive and passionate, India always understood him better than anyone else. And the longer they work together on the campaign, the more torn he is. Coming between her and her sister is out of the question. But how can he let love pass him by a second time?
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 25, 2020
390 people are currently reading
2233 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 180 reviews
August 23, 2022
melodramatic, definitely not the best developed romance, but ultimately fun. i like some good rich people drama and a Black southern family made it all the sweeter. i'd recommend this to anyone looking for a a forbidden romance and lots of emphasis on family. brother with political aspirations, sister trying to take over the family company... read like a soap. and i'm not complaining.
January 3, 2020
3.5 Stars / 2 Steam Fans
If you are looking for a story with black main characters, then this is the story for you! India is the baby of the family. She is also an accomplished violinist that comes back to town for a visit. Upon India's return, she has to deal with family secrets, forbidden secret love, and deciding if she is willing to blow up her family for the things she wants. Travis is divorced from India's sister and has been a family friend for years; however, there are also some secrets that he has been hiding from those that he calls friends. There is so much drama from the very start of this story that it became a little overwhelming. I did like the connection between India and Travis, but there were so many times I wanted to throw my Kindle and reach into the story to shake some sense into all of the characters. I am also looking forward to reading future books about some of the secondary characters that we met.
Video review available in Week 1 Dec 29 – Jan 4 weekly book reviews.
For other video book reviews check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.
If you are looking for a story with black main characters, then this is the story for you! India is the baby of the family. She is also an accomplished violinist that comes back to town for a visit. Upon India's return, she has to deal with family secrets, forbidden secret love, and deciding if she is willing to blow up her family for the things she wants. Travis is divorced from India's sister and has been a family friend for years; however, there are also some secrets that he has been hiding from those that he calls friends. There is so much drama from the very start of this story that it became a little overwhelming. I did like the connection between India and Travis, but there were so many times I wanted to throw my Kindle and reach into the story to shake some sense into all of the characters. I am also looking forward to reading future books about some of the secondary characters that we met.
Video review available in Week 1 Dec 29 – Jan 4 weekly book reviews.
For other video book reviews check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.
November 21, 2020
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I'm gonna add a star, cause in retrospect... this story stuck with me and I'd def revisit it.
so 3.5 rounded up.
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This one is a bit of a soap opera. The MCs are the main romance, but they share the stage with romances past and future.
I liked the writing though and would read this author again.
I don't know why I'm on a 'my sister married my love' kick. I seriously never felt anything like that for any of my sister's boyfriends. (To be honest, she's always had craptastic taste in men...)
I guess I like the angst and if the author can turn it around successfully and in this case I think it works quite well.
It's a political family, but India was the baby of the family and the only artist. She fell in love with her brother's best friend Travis, who was also an artist (but later became a lawyer to please his father). But anyways, being a political family the patriarch, Grant, is determined that they all appear perfect at all times. Image is everything with him.
He's a super duper douche bag and I wanted to see him smacked in the face with a skillet. But unfortunately he never gets his comeuppance. -sigh-
The older sister, Elaina married Travis when he got her pregnant accidentally. Grant insisted they marry, but the marriage was doomed almost from the start and the Elaina ended up having a miscarriage. They have been divorced for 2 years after being married for 5 years.
I was disappointed that they stayed married that long. But I was also convinced that they never loved each other and that the only thing being hurt by India and Travis getting together now, was Elaina's pride.
It just seemed so obvious that India and Travis were a much better fit. They had shared a passionate kiss on her 21st birthday just before Elaina found out she was pregnant.
Lots of stuff happens through the book. There's Grant's machinations, Tavis's family's shittiness...
There's also Camille, Travis' current girlfriend, sorry to say.
Anyways, I enjoyed it quite a bit. They were all just so 'adult'. You know, they actually communicated and were civil to each other (for the most part).
Safety is good
I'm gonna add a star, cause in retrospect... this story stuck with me and I'd def revisit it.
so 3.5 rounded up.
#############################
This one is a bit of a soap opera. The MCs are the main romance, but they share the stage with romances past and future.
I liked the writing though and would read this author again.
I don't know why I'm on a 'my sister married my love' kick. I seriously never felt anything like that for any of my sister's boyfriends. (To be honest, she's always had craptastic taste in men...)
I guess I like the angst and if the author can turn it around successfully and in this case I think it works quite well.
It's a political family, but India was the baby of the family and the only artist. She fell in love with her brother's best friend Travis, who was also an artist (but later became a lawyer to please his father). But anyways, being a political family the patriarch, Grant, is determined that they all appear perfect at all times. Image is everything with him.
He's a super duper douche bag and I wanted to see him smacked in the face with a skillet. But unfortunately he never gets his comeuppance. -sigh-
The older sister, Elaina married Travis when he got her pregnant accidentally. Grant insisted they marry, but the marriage was doomed almost from the start and the Elaina ended up having a miscarriage. They have been divorced for 2 years after being married for 5 years.
I was disappointed that they stayed married that long. But I was also convinced that they never loved each other and that the only thing being hurt by India and Travis getting together now, was Elaina's pride.
It just seemed so obvious that India and Travis were a much better fit. They had shared a passionate kiss on her 21st birthday just before Elaina found out she was pregnant.
Lots of stuff happens through the book. There's Grant's machinations, Tavis's family's shittiness...
There's also Camille, Travis' current girlfriend, sorry to say.
Anyways, I enjoyed it quite a bit. They were all just so 'adult'. You know, they actually communicated and were civil to each other (for the most part).
Safety is good
February 22, 2022
I enjoyed this dramatic story that felt almost more like a family drama than a straight up romance. I honestly liked that a lot. The family is very complex with the heroine's father being very wealthy and owner in a big tobacco company. Appearances matter very much to him and he has political aspirations for his son.
India, the daughter is a musician and comes back home to aid in any way she can so her brother secures his political dreams. She's thrust into a role alongside Travis, who is the man she shared a passionate kiss with at 21 and considered herself in love with, BUT he is also her sister's ex husband!
This was a really well told story, it tied all the threads of the different family dynamics up really well, and kept my interest the whole time. This author's writing was impeccable too.
I do wish there had been more angst (despite the nature of the relationship the angst wasn't super high) between the main love interest, but it was still an enjoyable read and I plan to continue the series.
India, the daughter is a musician and comes back home to aid in any way she can so her brother secures his political dreams. She's thrust into a role alongside Travis, who is the man she shared a passionate kiss with at 21 and considered herself in love with, BUT he is also her sister's ex husband!
This was a really well told story, it tied all the threads of the different family dynamics up really well, and kept my interest the whole time. This author's writing was impeccable too.
I do wish there had been more angst (despite the nature of the relationship the angst wasn't super high) between the main love interest, but it was still an enjoyable read and I plan to continue the series.
March 1, 2020
Given that I was a little nervous about the premise, I did not expect to like this as much as I did! Forbidden Promises is a juicy and dramatic contemporary romance following an elite Black family in the American South, and a woman who has always had a thing for her sister's ex-husband and is reconnecting with him for the first time in years. There is family drama galore (though not in the way I was worried about), political intrigue, hidden secrets, class differences, and a surprisingly sweet forbidden romance. I was super into this and will definitely read on the series. I need to know what happens with some of these side characters and we are set up for some really fantastic stories!
India plans to be home for just a few days, during her brothers announcement of his bid for Senate. Family drama and her feelings for Travis (her brother's BFF and sister's ex-husband) are the reason she left, and the reason she doesn't plan to stay. But her overbearing fathers has other plans for her life, and she realizes that she never did get over Travis. Without saying too much, I was worried how she was going to do this whole "into the sister's ex" thing, but I ended up feeling fine about the way it was handled. Your mileage may vary depending on how sensitive you are to these things, but this didn't feel all that "forbidden" to me beyond the optics of it. I thoroughly enjoyed my time reading this and look forward to more in the series! Because the brother, the sister, and the cousin ALL need books! I received an advance copy of this book for review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
CW include discussions of a miscarriage, excessive drinking by a side character, gun violence, infidelity of a parent.
India plans to be home for just a few days, during her brothers announcement of his bid for Senate. Family drama and her feelings for Travis (her brother's BFF and sister's ex-husband) are the reason she left, and the reason she doesn't plan to stay. But her overbearing fathers has other plans for her life, and she realizes that she never did get over Travis. Without saying too much, I was worried how she was going to do this whole "into the sister's ex" thing, but I ended up feeling fine about the way it was handled. Your mileage may vary depending on how sensitive you are to these things, but this didn't feel all that "forbidden" to me beyond the optics of it. I thoroughly enjoyed my time reading this and look forward to more in the series! Because the brother, the sister, and the cousin ALL need books! I received an advance copy of this book for review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
CW include discussions of a miscarriage, excessive drinking by a side character, gun violence, infidelity of a parent.
November 15, 2021
Forbidden Promises is a second chance romance with an edge of forbidden romance.
India has returned home for a visit when she's slapped in the face by seeing someone she used to crush on. That someone is her sister's ex-husband, Travis. But before he married her sister -out of obligation- India & Travis were hot for each other. Now all these years later she's returned and Travis is single.
A major roadblock in their relationship is that she loves her sister and doesn't want to hurt her by dating her ex-husband.
And if that didn't make for a complicated situation India's dad rules his adult kids lives. The meddling he does in his adult kids lives was frustrating to watch.
The hurdles India and Travis must jump through to keep everyone happy except themselves is aggravating at times.
Earlier this month I had a lot of back to back 5-star reads. I think I might be suffering a book hangover and finding myself struggling to connect with stories. It's one of those - it's me, not you situations.
India has returned home for a visit when she's slapped in the face by seeing someone she used to crush on. That someone is her sister's ex-husband, Travis. But before he married her sister -out of obligation- India & Travis were hot for each other. Now all these years later she's returned and Travis is single.
A major roadblock in their relationship is that she loves her sister and doesn't want to hurt her by dating her ex-husband.
And if that didn't make for a complicated situation India's dad rules his adult kids lives. The meddling he does in his adult kids lives was frustrating to watch.
The hurdles India and Travis must jump through to keep everyone happy except themselves is aggravating at times.
Earlier this month I had a lot of back to back 5-star reads. I think I might be suffering a book hangover and finding myself struggling to connect with stories. It's one of those - it's me, not you situations.
Audiobook source: Hoopla
Narrator: Adenrele Ojo
Length: 10 H 44 M
March 14, 2020
Forbidden Promises by Synithia Williams is book one in her Jackson Falls series.
India Robidoux’s short visit with her family is turning into a longer stay because of her brother’s political campaign and her father’s manipulations. She is forced into closer contact with Travis, her sister’s ex-husband and the man she’s been avoiding for the last four years, than she’s comfortable with. India can’t follow her heart, because it will devastate her sister, but love may be worth the sacrifice.
Travis Strickland is Elaina Robidoux’s ex-husband and Byron Robidoux’s best friend and law partner. He’s conflicted by his continuing feelings for India, his ex-wife’s sister. Their close contact during Byron’s political campaign is awakening feelings he’s been denying for years. Travis wants to follow his heart but doing so may devastate the family that has embraced him as one of their own.
Forbidden Promises is a scintillating read. The characters are strong and believable. The plot is interesting and engaging. This is a tale of love, betrayal, scandal, family loyalty and the pain of secrets and lies. I was impressed with Forbidden Promises and give it a 5 out of 5 star rating. Readers of contemporary romance will find this novel compelling. Be aware there is some explicit sexual content that may be off-putting to some readers, but this is still a great read. The first chapter of the next book in the series is included at the end. It promises to be as good as this first novel of the series.
My thanks to HARLEQUIN – Romance (US & Canada) and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
India Robidoux’s short visit with her family is turning into a longer stay because of her brother’s political campaign and her father’s manipulations. She is forced into closer contact with Travis, her sister’s ex-husband and the man she’s been avoiding for the last four years, than she’s comfortable with. India can’t follow her heart, because it will devastate her sister, but love may be worth the sacrifice.
Travis Strickland is Elaina Robidoux’s ex-husband and Byron Robidoux’s best friend and law partner. He’s conflicted by his continuing feelings for India, his ex-wife’s sister. Their close contact during Byron’s political campaign is awakening feelings he’s been denying for years. Travis wants to follow his heart but doing so may devastate the family that has embraced him as one of their own.
Forbidden Promises is a scintillating read. The characters are strong and believable. The plot is interesting and engaging. This is a tale of love, betrayal, scandal, family loyalty and the pain of secrets and lies. I was impressed with Forbidden Promises and give it a 5 out of 5 star rating. Readers of contemporary romance will find this novel compelling. Be aware there is some explicit sexual content that may be off-putting to some readers, but this is still a great read. The first chapter of the next book in the series is included at the end. It promises to be as good as this first novel of the series.
My thanks to HARLEQUIN – Romance (US & Canada) and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
May 2, 2022
THIS WAS A LOT, MESSY AND FULL OF DRAMA BUT I ENJOYED IT! I'M NOT SURE IF THIS IS A HFN SINCE THIS SERIES SEEMS TO BE A SAGA. WILL BE BACK LATER WITH MORE DETAILED REVIEW.
April 4, 2020
This is basically a soap opera in book form and I loved every single second of it.
The relationship between India and Travis is flippin' adorable, the family tea is HOT, and the secrets are poppin'!
The relationship between India and Travis is flippin' adorable, the family tea is HOT, and the secrets are poppin'!
May 29, 2022
This story dragged on a bit too long. At the end I was speed reading. The love stories were all complicated due to them being contrived by the controlling grimy egomaniac father. Every excuse for the use of control tactics were because of the image of the family and its business. The character development was decent. The plot was okay. The pacing was just too slow and I would’ve preferred a more concise book. There are a couple of steamy scenes. In the beginning the story appears to be about the siblings, but for me, Travis and his family dynamic are the central plot. His story is what held my interest and kept me engaged.
Thanks to Harlequin for providing me with an eARC for review.
Thanks to Harlequin for providing me with an eARC for review.
November 9, 2021
3.5-4 of 5 stars.
I enjoyed this well enough but I’m glad I read these out of order because I wasn’t that sold on India and Travis’s chemistry. I read it all via audiobook and it didn’t keep my attention like the previous 2 books I’ve read from the series.
I enjoyed this well enough but I’m glad I read these out of order because I wasn’t that sold on India and Travis’s chemistry. I read it all via audiobook and it didn’t keep my attention like the previous 2 books I’ve read from the series.
April 23, 2021
Youngest daughter India Robidoux has returned just as her brother Byron is kicking off his campaign for senate. She's in between jobs and visiting her family for the first time in awhile. Papa Robidoux is the patriarch dead set on controlling the family image and running his children's lives. It's business before everything else and he wants India to stick around and help make her brother's image look good. The only problem is India will have to work with her brother's best friend Travis who also happens to be her sister's ex husband and her first love.
As someone who used to watch soap operas on and off from age 11 or 12 up until a few years ago you can tell how much Synithia is a fan. I gave up on soaps because I got tired of the lack of diversity and I ran out of couples to root for. And ironically dove further into romance books to give me what I needed. But I was always more invested in individual couples vs family dynamics. If you watched soaps for the complicated family drama than you'll love this one.
This one is set in The South and Grant Robidoux was giving me Black JR while this book was giving me Dallas vibes remake vibes(the original was before my time but I did see some of it in reruns). Between Grant's constant meddling in his children's love lives and his mistress' presence, Byron getting engaged to strengthen his image for the election, Elaina's drinking problem and trouble at their family's tobacco company, and Travis' complicated relationship with his parents; there's no lack of drama.
It's not uncommon at all for couples to get together after being related through marriage or even sharing half siblings. That type of set up isn't really something I've read in books so I was curious to see how she'd tackle it.
This was actually a very slow burn second chance romance. India and Travis tip-toed around each other for much of the book fighting the pull to be together because they didn't want to hurt her sister Elaina. At first I wasn't rooting for them to be together. It was clear Elaina hadn't emotionally moved on from the marriage even though she and Travis constantly stated they never loved each other. And there still seemed to be a bit of spark between them. It also didn't help that they were married for five years. I felt more could've been explored with why they stayed together for so long.
But then closer towards the end of the story after an out of town getaway they finally clicked for me. I felt the chemistry while they bonded doing fun activities and started to believe in their love and friendship.
I did listen to some of this via audiobook so I could listen on work breaks and the narration was killing me softly. Those "Southern" accents especially for the men weren't it! She would do this deep raspy gravely voice.
All in all this kept me entertained with the constant moving pieces and was a fairly quick read.
https://womenofcolorreadtoo.blogspot....
As someone who used to watch soap operas on and off from age 11 or 12 up until a few years ago you can tell how much Synithia is a fan. I gave up on soaps because I got tired of the lack of diversity and I ran out of couples to root for. And ironically dove further into romance books to give me what I needed. But I was always more invested in individual couples vs family dynamics. If you watched soaps for the complicated family drama than you'll love this one.
This one is set in The South and Grant Robidoux was giving me Black JR while this book was giving me Dallas vibes remake vibes(the original was before my time but I did see some of it in reruns). Between Grant's constant meddling in his children's love lives and his mistress' presence, Byron getting engaged to strengthen his image for the election, Elaina's drinking problem and trouble at their family's tobacco company, and Travis' complicated relationship with his parents; there's no lack of drama.
It's not uncommon at all for couples to get together after being related through marriage or even sharing half siblings. That type of set up isn't really something I've read in books so I was curious to see how she'd tackle it.
This was actually a very slow burn second chance romance. India and Travis tip-toed around each other for much of the book fighting the pull to be together because they didn't want to hurt her sister Elaina. At first I wasn't rooting for them to be together. It was clear Elaina hadn't emotionally moved on from the marriage even though she and Travis constantly stated they never loved each other. And there still seemed to be a bit of spark between them. It also didn't help that they were married for five years. I felt more could've been explored with why they stayed together for so long.
But then closer towards the end of the story after an out of town getaway they finally clicked for me. I felt the chemistry while they bonded doing fun activities and started to believe in their love and friendship.
I did listen to some of this via audiobook so I could listen on work breaks and the narration was killing me softly. Those "Southern" accents especially for the men weren't it! She would do this deep raspy gravely voice.
All in all this kept me entertained with the constant moving pieces and was a fairly quick read.
https://womenofcolorreadtoo.blogspot....
November 5, 2019
Absolutely soapy and over the top second chance, brother's best friend romance that wasn't my to my personal reading taste, but was a fantastic and angst filled romance that will be right for many many readers from from an author who has penned many category romance titles for Kimani Romance (RIP).
A young India spent a wild night under the stars kissing her brother's best friend and her sister's on again, off again hookup, a birthday to remember, but is devastated when he announces his engagement to her sister just two weeks later.
India leaves her home, her family, and strikes off on her own path against her imperious father's wishes. Cut to ten years later and India is now a successful concert violinist, but is being called home to help her brother's election team. A team that also includes Travis.
Travis has been divorced from India's sister for two years but still seems off limits. Her sister is family, no matter what India's heart wants. But Travis is out to get India for himself, consequences be damned.
There is SO MUCH going on in this story. It was hard to recap in a short blurb. I personally wanted way more of India and Travis on the page together, but the story often veered into many different paths and is clearly setting up a series for many of the other characters. I also am, in 2019, having a difficult time reading about rich people in politics, as I find it hard to believe billionaires are not Republicans. Also, for a story that involves politics so heavily it felt weird to not have any party names mentioned or political affiliation. One is left to guess.
I received a free copy from Library Journal to review. I will try to remember to post a link to that review when it is live!
CW for miscarriage (off page), cheating (not between the main couple), India's family is wealthy because of their large Tobacco business, gun violence, a shooting, alcohol use.
A young India spent a wild night under the stars kissing her brother's best friend and her sister's on again, off again hookup, a birthday to remember, but is devastated when he announces his engagement to her sister just two weeks later.
India leaves her home, her family, and strikes off on her own path against her imperious father's wishes. Cut to ten years later and India is now a successful concert violinist, but is being called home to help her brother's election team. A team that also includes Travis.
Travis has been divorced from India's sister for two years but still seems off limits. Her sister is family, no matter what India's heart wants. But Travis is out to get India for himself, consequences be damned.
There is SO MUCH going on in this story. It was hard to recap in a short blurb. I personally wanted way more of India and Travis on the page together, but the story often veered into many different paths and is clearly setting up a series for many of the other characters. I also am, in 2019, having a difficult time reading about rich people in politics, as I find it hard to believe billionaires are not Republicans. Also, for a story that involves politics so heavily it felt weird to not have any party names mentioned or political affiliation. One is left to guess.
I received a free copy from Library Journal to review. I will try to remember to post a link to that review when it is live!
CW for miscarriage (off page), cheating (not between the main couple), India's family is wealthy because of their large Tobacco business, gun violence, a shooting, alcohol use.
September 9, 2020
This storyline was crazy busy! There was just so much drama and angst going on! I felt like Travis and India’s romance got buried under all the family drama and wished they had more page time. Family members alone covered a large majority of characters and when you add in different plot threads...sibling rivalry, family expectations, political ring, family betrayal, secrets, love interests... you name it, I’m pretty sure it happens here! The more I think about it, Forbidden Promises reminded me of my sibling’s favorite soap opera, Days of Our Lives.
October 10, 2020
I’m all for a second chance romance, but with your sisters ex husband? Also, I hate Grant. What a manipulative father, and a jerk. Also, I hate Travis’s family. If this story was just India and Travis, I might have enjoyed it, but the rest of the supporting characters just made it horrible.
June 22, 2022
Unlike 99% of the books I read, I didn't find FORBIDDEN PROMISES by Synithia Williams through social media or romance blogs and podcasts. I thiiiiiiink I saw this novel in my local Target or Fred Meyers and was instantly curious about it because of the cover. I love romance novel covers that capture a couple in the midst of sharing intimacy or affection (see: The Ones Who Got Away or Once Ghosted, Twice Shy) and I love to see photographs of real Black or brown people in love (see: After Hours Redemption or Marriage by Arrangement), instead of cutesy illustrations or flat silhouettes. Synithia Williams is a new-to-me author.
FORBIDDEN PROMISES takes place in the small city of Jackson Falls, North Carolina and revolves around the wealthy Robidoux family that owns a tobacco company. When the novel opens, 20-something heroine India has just returned home after a four year absence. She's wary and apprehensive about being back because she's secretly in love with Travis, who is simultaneously her brother's best friend, her father's former protégé, and most importantly, her older sister Elaina's now ex-husband. Years ago, Travis and India had enjoyed one sexy evening together before he married her sister. Although she was only planning on a quick visit home, India decides to extend her stay to help support her brother's run for Senate. India and Travis are constantly thrown together, during family events and on the campaign trail, which finally provides them with an opportunity to explore their long-simmering feelings for one another.
In the preface, Williams explains that she's a huge fan of daytime soap operas and intentionally set out to create a family whose wealth and history of secret-keeping would mirror the families you'd find in those shows. Although I've never watched soaps, I'm a fan of teen dramas, Korean dramas, and melodramatic storytelling more generally. I'm also nostalgic for the bonkers plots of older romances so I deeply admire Williams's courage in choosing to tackle an especially tricky, taboo trope (the hero = former lover of a relative). With the right circumstances, I'm sure this unwieldy trope can work and I don't think it's beyond the pale that two sisters would sleep with the same man at different times. I have two sisters, we're all close in age, and we grew up in a small community so...um, yeah, I can attest to how plausible this scenario is. Just to make this 100% more awkward...
Unfortunately, it just doesn't work in FORBIDDEN PROMISES. To succeed, I think taboo love stories need to be high heat and as long as the protagonists are separated, the sexual tension must be kept at a near-scalding temperature. To achieve this boiling cauldron of intense yearning, there has to be a laser focus on the central couple. Bizarrely, FORBIDDEN PROMISES is a slow-burn love story with a wide focus that gives space to a ton of subplots, including the hero's estrangement from his family that involves his work as a defense attorney, the heroine's complicated dynamic with her father who is choosing to remarry a woman she resents, secondary love interests for both the main characters, and a bevy of set-ups for future books in this series! And, frankly, it was boring...which is the craziest thing to say after reading a novel where the heroine wants to have sex with her sister's former husband!
And, while I'm comfortable with plots where the hero has had sex with the heroine's sister, I'm increasingly uninterested in romances that set women up as rivals for the same man's affections. I was specifically uncomfortable with the ways that FORBIDDEN PROMISES pits the Robidoux sisters against one another (Not Like Other Girls reimagined as Not Like My Sister). When India returns to the family estate, it's made clear to her repeatedly that Older Sister Elaina hasn't emotionally moved on from her marriage. Older Sister Elaina propositions Travis and after the local grapevine spreads the rumor that Travis wants a second chance with someone, Older Sister Elaina understandably assumes it's her and proceeds to have long conversations with both Travis and India about his infatuation (which readers know India is the subject of). I think these plot developments were supposed to raise the stakes and provide more conflict to keep the main couple apart, but they only served to shift my sympathy away from Travis and India. I was too humiliated and angry on Elaina's behalf.
To further illustrate this rivalry, Williams draws sharp contrasts between the two sisters. India has a warm heart and generous spirit; Older Sister Elaina reacts to pain with deflection or irritation. India is an artistic, free-spirited musician; Older Sister Elaina is a businesswoman who is used to having her orders followed. India isn't bothered by her rumpled or soiled appearance; Older Sister Elaina is the consummate professional in a sleek suit. Most egregiously, it's clear that Older Sister Elaina binge drinks or struggles with alcohol dependency, which is worsened when she relives trauma. FORBIDDEN PROMISES uses these details to bolster Travis's attraction to India over Elaina, explain why Elaina and Travis's marriage ended, and create a more flattering or relatable portrait of India, which was...disappointing. The implication is that Older Sister Elaina deserved to be romantically humiliated, sexually spurned, and divorced because she's an alcoholic!
Meanwhile, FORBIDDEN PROMISES does have an obvious villain who isn't portrayed as particularly villainous. India and Elaina's father, Grant, is the family patriarch, their company's corporate leader, and Travis's former mentor and benefactor, but he's constantly abusing his power by undermining his daughters' personal and professional lives. He publicly reverses their decisions, refuses to respect their articulated boundaries, and interferes in their romantic relationships when they're adults! Grant also criticizes Elaina's workplace conduct in patriarchal terms and avoids taking emotional responsibility for his own extramarital affair, yet the text stops short of condemning any of his actions as toxic or traumatizing...? It's an odd concession when Elaina is meant to shoulder so much responsibility for her failed marriage and continued unhappiness.
But, FORBIDDEN PROMISES had it's highlights. Its portrayal of men and communication is highly commendable. I'm frustrated by the ways that contemporary romances rely on an intentional lack of communication to further conflict and heighten tension and this book is definitely guilty of that. However, once he and India hook up, it's Travis who ends up doing a lot of the emotional labor in their relationship. He communicates as well as, if not better than, his female partner and it felt incredibly refreshing to see that in a romantic hero. Before they're a couple, India goes on a handful of dates with another man and there's a scene in which the man inappropriately suggests his sexual interest in her. India confronts him and he immediately understands his error, takes responsibility, and apologizes. I loved that moment too!
FORBIDDEN PROMISES didn't have the right structure for it's 400-level trope and I was disappointed by it's insistence on the romantic rivalry between sisters and refusal to interrogate its patriarch's narcissistic tendencies. Points added for its younger male characters, who really stepped up to the plate when it came to articulate communication and emotional labor. Grade: C+.
FORBIDDEN PROMISES takes place in the small city of Jackson Falls, North Carolina and revolves around the wealthy Robidoux family that owns a tobacco company. When the novel opens, 20-something heroine India has just returned home after a four year absence. She's wary and apprehensive about being back because she's secretly in love with Travis, who is simultaneously her brother's best friend, her father's former protégé, and most importantly, her older sister Elaina's now ex-husband. Years ago, Travis and India had enjoyed one sexy evening together before he married her sister. Although she was only planning on a quick visit home, India decides to extend her stay to help support her brother's run for Senate. India and Travis are constantly thrown together, during family events and on the campaign trail, which finally provides them with an opportunity to explore their long-simmering feelings for one another.
In the preface, Williams explains that she's a huge fan of daytime soap operas and intentionally set out to create a family whose wealth and history of secret-keeping would mirror the families you'd find in those shows. Although I've never watched soaps, I'm a fan of teen dramas, Korean dramas, and melodramatic storytelling more generally. I'm also nostalgic for the bonkers plots of older romances so I deeply admire Williams's courage in choosing to tackle an especially tricky, taboo trope (the hero = former lover of a relative). With the right circumstances, I'm sure this unwieldy trope can work and I don't think it's beyond the pale that two sisters would sleep with the same man at different times. I have two sisters, we're all close in age, and we grew up in a small community so...um, yeah, I can attest to how plausible this scenario is. Just to make this 100% more awkward...
Unfortunately, it just doesn't work in FORBIDDEN PROMISES. To succeed, I think taboo love stories need to be high heat and as long as the protagonists are separated, the sexual tension must be kept at a near-scalding temperature. To achieve this boiling cauldron of intense yearning, there has to be a laser focus on the central couple. Bizarrely, FORBIDDEN PROMISES is a slow-burn love story with a wide focus that gives space to a ton of subplots, including the hero's estrangement from his family that involves his work as a defense attorney, the heroine's complicated dynamic with her father who is choosing to remarry a woman she resents, secondary love interests for both the main characters, and a bevy of set-ups for future books in this series! And, frankly, it was boring...which is the craziest thing to say after reading a novel where the heroine wants to have sex with her sister's former husband!
And, while I'm comfortable with plots where the hero has had sex with the heroine's sister, I'm increasingly uninterested in romances that set women up as rivals for the same man's affections. I was specifically uncomfortable with the ways that FORBIDDEN PROMISES pits the Robidoux sisters against one another (Not Like Other Girls reimagined as Not Like My Sister). When India returns to the family estate, it's made clear to her repeatedly that Older Sister Elaina hasn't emotionally moved on from her marriage. Older Sister Elaina propositions Travis and after the local grapevine spreads the rumor that Travis wants a second chance with someone, Older Sister Elaina understandably assumes it's her and proceeds to have long conversations with both Travis and India about his infatuation (which readers know India is the subject of). I think these plot developments were supposed to raise the stakes and provide more conflict to keep the main couple apart, but they only served to shift my sympathy away from Travis and India. I was too humiliated and angry on Elaina's behalf.
To further illustrate this rivalry, Williams draws sharp contrasts between the two sisters. India has a warm heart and generous spirit; Older Sister Elaina reacts to pain with deflection or irritation. India is an artistic, free-spirited musician; Older Sister Elaina is a businesswoman who is used to having her orders followed. India isn't bothered by her rumpled or soiled appearance; Older Sister Elaina is the consummate professional in a sleek suit. Most egregiously, it's clear that Older Sister Elaina binge drinks or struggles with alcohol dependency, which is worsened when she relives trauma. FORBIDDEN PROMISES uses these details to bolster Travis's attraction to India over Elaina, explain why Elaina and Travis's marriage ended, and create a more flattering or relatable portrait of India, which was...disappointing. The implication is that Older Sister Elaina deserved to be romantically humiliated, sexually spurned, and divorced because she's an alcoholic!
Meanwhile, FORBIDDEN PROMISES does have an obvious villain who isn't portrayed as particularly villainous. India and Elaina's father, Grant, is the family patriarch, their company's corporate leader, and Travis's former mentor and benefactor, but he's constantly abusing his power by undermining his daughters' personal and professional lives. He publicly reverses their decisions, refuses to respect their articulated boundaries, and interferes in their romantic relationships when they're adults! Grant also criticizes Elaina's workplace conduct in patriarchal terms and avoids taking emotional responsibility for his own extramarital affair, yet the text stops short of condemning any of his actions as toxic or traumatizing...? It's an odd concession when Elaina is meant to shoulder so much responsibility for her failed marriage and continued unhappiness.
But, FORBIDDEN PROMISES had it's highlights. Its portrayal of men and communication is highly commendable. I'm frustrated by the ways that contemporary romances rely on an intentional lack of communication to further conflict and heighten tension and this book is definitely guilty of that. However, once he and India hook up, it's Travis who ends up doing a lot of the emotional labor in their relationship. He communicates as well as, if not better than, his female partner and it felt incredibly refreshing to see that in a romantic hero. Before they're a couple, India goes on a handful of dates with another man and there's a scene in which the man inappropriately suggests his sexual interest in her. India confronts him and he immediately understands his error, takes responsibility, and apologizes. I loved that moment too!
FORBIDDEN PROMISES didn't have the right structure for it's 400-level trope and I was disappointed by it's insistence on the romantic rivalry between sisters and refusal to interrogate its patriarch's narcissistic tendencies. Points added for its younger male characters, who really stepped up to the plate when it came to articulate communication and emotional labor. Grade: C+.
May 5, 2023
Everyone in this book sucks. It's got that soap opera feel with over the top drama, but I found all the characters so unbearable.
---
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Tobacco lobbyists and shaming poor disabled people, huh is this what Black Republicans are like? Whatever this was going for, I'm not really into it, though I do have to admit I found Elaina, the hot mess ice queen, interesting enough to want to read her book. I don't care much about the rest of the family, and the MCs of this book were forgettable. Also Grant Robidoux (the FMC's father) is the literal worst. He's toxic and controlling and an awful person.
Fuck this guy!
“I did, but he can do a lot more for us in Washington. Keep the legislation going in favor of us large tobacco producers. Help calm down some of the complaints that cigars and cigarettes are bad for you.”
---
“Neither is liquor, but you don’t see anyone doing mass media campaigns against the alcohol industry. Besides, we’ve got an entire division dedicated to making smoking less harmful. Hired a new scientist and everything.”
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“I’m not selling out my family. I’m doing my job.” Something his dad might have understood if he’d been able to hold on to a job long enough to take pride in his work. Mac had fallen and hurt his back at work seven years ago and rode the wave of worker’s comp, unemployment and disability as far as he could.
Tobacco lobbyists and shaming poor disabled people, huh is this what Black Republicans are like? Whatever this was going for, I'm not really into it, though I do have to admit I found Elaina, the hot mess ice queen, interesting enough to want to read her book. I don't care much about the rest of the family, and the MCs of this book were forgettable. Also Grant Robidoux (the FMC's father) is the literal worst. He's toxic and controlling and an awful person.
India loved her daddy more than anything, but she still hadn’t forgiven him for going to their family cook’s bed while their mother fought a breast cancer battle.
Fuck this guy!
December 25, 2021
Being in love with your sister' ex-husband has India Robidoux in an anxiety state. She did not mean to fall in love with him. A birthday kiss with whiskey shots, got out of hand, find Travis and India facing their true feelings. Getting her family to accept the relationship: not hurting India's sister, Elaine, feelings: and not causing a scandal for Byron Robidoux senate campaign is the basics of this romantic tell. Love finds a way to flourish. A very good read. Plus, some very heated sexual scenes which was a surprise.
Quotes:
He'd named the place Robidoux Castel, and sometimes India was sure her father believed they really were black royalty.
Roy held up a hand. He looked like he'd already been through this argument and wasn't ready for the replay.
Grant's eyes narrowed. "I don't have any bastards, if that's what you're asking."
Travis glance at the group huddled together. " I want to believe him. Giving up what you want for an unhappy marriage isn't worth the price of a Senate seat."
Quotes:
He'd named the place Robidoux Castel, and sometimes India was sure her father believed they really were black royalty.
Roy held up a hand. He looked like he'd already been through this argument and wasn't ready for the replay.
Grant's eyes narrowed. "I don't have any bastards, if that's what you're asking."
Travis glance at the group huddled together. " I want to believe him. Giving up what you want for an unhappy marriage isn't worth the price of a Senate seat."
January 7, 2021
This book started off strong, but then it really started to drag after I hit the 50% mark. The story is mostly made up of “will they, won’t they” moments, so by the time the couple got together around 70% in, I didn’t feel the sparks that were described so much throughout the book. It was a lot more tell rather than show in that regard. Even the steamy scenes kind of a lacked an extra *something* for me.
I did enjoy the family dynamic and how fleshed out each of the characters were. Both the hero and heroine have interesting relationships with their families, and I thought they were very distinct and well portrayed; I really felt like I understood them and what they stood for. I just wish that that same care was put into the central romantic relationship since this is, in fact, a romance novel.
Overall, it was fine and I’ll probably read more from the author.
I did enjoy the family dynamic and how fleshed out each of the characters were. Both the hero and heroine have interesting relationships with their families, and I thought they were very distinct and well portrayed; I really felt like I understood them and what they stood for. I just wish that that same care was put into the central romantic relationship since this is, in fact, a romance novel.
Overall, it was fine and I’ll probably read more from the author.
November 22, 2020
This is the first book in Synithia Williams’ Jackson Falls series. I spotted this on Karen Grey’s goodreads and it has some of my favorite tropes: second-chance, friends-to-lovers, & best friend’s sister/brother’s best friend. It was over the top soap-opera-ey. Secret pregnancies, arranged marriages, controlling patriarchs, political aspirations, attempted murder, affairs*, and more. If there was an angsty theme it was in here or was hinted at and will obviously be in the series at some point.
It was glorious!
I loved India, the baby of the family just trying to get out and get away from her long-time crush on her sister’s ex-husband. Travis, despite not being a Robidoux, still finds his life being manipulated and controlled by the patriarch, Grant. Add in India’s siblings, Byron & Elaina, each with their own grand aspirations and secrets. This is like getting a season’s worth of daytime television in an easy to listen to audiobook.
I’m definitely looking forward to The Promise of a Kiss.
*No cheating by MC’s
I enjoyed Adenrele Ojo’s narration. She did a good job with all the voices and emotions. She captures the southern accent perfectly without feeling overdone.
It was glorious!
I loved India, the baby of the family just trying to get out and get away from her long-time crush on her sister’s ex-husband. Travis, despite not being a Robidoux, still finds his life being manipulated and controlled by the patriarch, Grant. Add in India’s siblings, Byron & Elaina, each with their own grand aspirations and secrets. This is like getting a season’s worth of daytime television in an easy to listen to audiobook.
I’m definitely looking forward to The Promise of a Kiss.
*No cheating by MC’s
I enjoyed Adenrele Ojo’s narration. She did a good job with all the voices and emotions. She captures the southern accent perfectly without feeling overdone.
September 26, 2020
This was kind of a drama llama of a book? The dad is trash, I'm glad there wasn't a ton of pressure on the sister to be okay with her ex and her sister hooking up though I also wish she had sort of stuck to her guns and been mad longer, I hope everyone is very happy together, I was exhausted when I finished reading.
January 23, 2023
TW: Classism, gun violence, gun shot wound, hospital stay, miscarriage, death
Actual rating 3.5
https://app.thestorygraph.com/reviews...
Actual rating 3.5
https://app.thestorygraph.com/reviews...
February 21, 2020
Angsty, passionate, and dramatic!
Forbidden Promises is a heartfelt, intricate, second-chance romance featuring the independent, feisty India and the hardworking, dependable Travis as they discover that even though they really should stay away from each other, they just can’t resist.
The prose is crisp and witty. The characters are intelligent, flirty, hesitant, and intriguing. And the plot is an engaging blend of friendship, emotion, attraction, heat, familial drama, awkward moments, romance, and politics.
Overall, Forbidden Promises is a spirited, seductive, entertaining read by Williams that’s a promising start for this new Jackson Falls series and the perfect choice for those who love soap operas.
Thank you to Harlequin Books for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Forbidden Promises is a heartfelt, intricate, second-chance romance featuring the independent, feisty India and the hardworking, dependable Travis as they discover that even though they really should stay away from each other, they just can’t resist.
The prose is crisp and witty. The characters are intelligent, flirty, hesitant, and intriguing. And the plot is an engaging blend of friendship, emotion, attraction, heat, familial drama, awkward moments, romance, and politics.
Overall, Forbidden Promises is a spirited, seductive, entertaining read by Williams that’s a promising start for this new Jackson Falls series and the perfect choice for those who love soap operas.
Thank you to Harlequin Books for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 2, 2023
Captivating! India's musical tour is over and she's back home after 4 years of traveling or most likely avoiding her family. But that's not the only reason she stayed away so long. India's brother is running for the Senate. And her presence could reveal a scandalous secret that could tear her family apart. Awesome story!
November 22, 2023
Melodramatic, soap opera mess. Just mess.
...obviously, I had a good time and will check out the rest. 😂
...obviously, I had a good time and will check out the rest. 😂
August 30, 2021
Longing for you
2.5 Stars
I don't like the Robidoux family. I hate people who use their money as a way to strong arm others. Grant Robidoux, the family matriarch, is a cruel man whom deserves nothing. I hate the position he coerced Travis into when it came to Elaina and India. And the fact that he was sleeping with another woman while his wife was on her death bed🤨...just foul.
I did somewhat like India. Although she seemed way too wrapped up in being a good sister or having some type of relationship with her sister, Elaina, whom was cold and unwelcoming. I get wanting to have a bond, yet not at the cost of my own happiness. India and Travis had a connection that no amount of time or distance was going to break. I didn't like that it took him almost dying for her to just give all the way in. She was a bit dramatic and draining to read about.
Travis was a pawn in Grant Robidoux game that he was playing and I hated that for him. Grants game was the nail in the coffin for Travis's relationship with his family. Once Grant took Travis under his wing, without knowing all of the deception of Grant buying his families land, it was a wrap, pretty much, for him to reconcile with his family. Then the whole case with his cousin; done deal. Travis's cousin Devon was a coward for trying to kill him. Even with all of the drama that was his life, Travis still loved India fiercely and was ready to be with her for good, once and for all. I loved that he knew where his heart lied and was determined. I wish he would've found it in him to not be tempted by Elaina from the very beginning. Would've made some of this less messier.
I feel like this story dragged. It could've been much shorter. Elaina and her ways don't make sense to me, Byron (India's brother) letting one heartbreak allow for him to make a rash decision just to win a Senate race was very far fetched and the worst thing ever, and India being this super gullible baby of the family...it was a bit daunting. Let's not talk about the fact that India was pining after a man who was screwing her sister, got said sister pregnant, then married said sister. Even though India wasn't aware of all the details between Travis and Elaina, knowing they were messing around should've been enough to stop anything with Travis...but, I digress.
The story was a bit interesting, yet as stated, took too long to get to the point of it all.
I think I'll keep with the series just because I'm invested. Hoping it gets better with each story. We shall see🤷🏾♀️.
2.5 Stars
I don't like the Robidoux family. I hate people who use their money as a way to strong arm others. Grant Robidoux, the family matriarch, is a cruel man whom deserves nothing. I hate the position he coerced Travis into when it came to Elaina and India. And the fact that he was sleeping with another woman while his wife was on her death bed🤨...just foul.
I did somewhat like India. Although she seemed way too wrapped up in being a good sister or having some type of relationship with her sister, Elaina, whom was cold and unwelcoming. I get wanting to have a bond, yet not at the cost of my own happiness. India and Travis had a connection that no amount of time or distance was going to break. I didn't like that it took him almost dying for her to just give all the way in. She was a bit dramatic and draining to read about.
Travis was a pawn in Grant Robidoux game that he was playing and I hated that for him. Grants game was the nail in the coffin for Travis's relationship with his family. Once Grant took Travis under his wing, without knowing all of the deception of Grant buying his families land, it was a wrap, pretty much, for him to reconcile with his family. Then the whole case with his cousin; done deal. Travis's cousin Devon was a coward for trying to kill him. Even with all of the drama that was his life, Travis still loved India fiercely and was ready to be with her for good, once and for all. I loved that he knew where his heart lied and was determined. I wish he would've found it in him to not be tempted by Elaina from the very beginning. Would've made some of this less messier.
I feel like this story dragged. It could've been much shorter. Elaina and her ways don't make sense to me, Byron (India's brother) letting one heartbreak allow for him to make a rash decision just to win a Senate race was very far fetched and the worst thing ever, and India being this super gullible baby of the family...it was a bit daunting. Let's not talk about the fact that India was pining after a man who was screwing her sister, got said sister pregnant, then married said sister. Even though India wasn't aware of all the details between Travis and Elaina, knowing they were messing around should've been enough to stop anything with Travis...but, I digress.
The story was a bit interesting, yet as stated, took too long to get to the point of it all.
I think I'll keep with the series just because I'm invested. Hoping it gets better with each story. We shall see🤷🏾♀️.
March 14, 2020
This is one that I had to read just to see how the author was going to get these two people together. Travis was married to India’s older sister Elaina, but before the wedding he had one magical night with India that left them always wondering what might have been. Now Travis and Elaina are divorced and he’s back among the family to support his best friend, their brother Byron, as he runs for office. He and India spend a lot of time together working on the campaign, and sparks fly even though they’re both worried about how the fallout will affect the family.
If that setup sounds totally bonkers to you, it is, and that’s why it’s great! The author’s note at the beginning specifically mentions her love of soap operas, and if you read this as if you’re watching Days of Our Lives, you will be right on board. I can’t wait to see what Williams rolls out in future books--will there be a secret baby? An evil twin? Will someone come back from the dead? I’m in for all of it.
If that setup sounds totally bonkers to you, it is, and that’s why it’s great! The author’s note at the beginning specifically mentions her love of soap operas, and if you read this as if you’re watching Days of Our Lives, you will be right on board. I can’t wait to see what Williams rolls out in future books--will there be a secret baby? An evil twin? Will someone come back from the dead? I’m in for all of it.
December 30, 2019
In Forbidden Promises, India and Travis have a sizzling attraction that they try to deny because of Travis' previous relationship. However, they are also friends and compatible in other ways so their love came naturally. Family bond and forgiveness play a central role in this book. It is the first in a series and the author also established a lot of the other characters in this read. I look forward to reading more of the Robidoux clan. Thank you, #Netgalley
February 10, 2020
This family is just...yeah. India is a strong, independent woman who wanted to make it on her own, and did. She lets family obligation keep her from the man she loves, but Travis isn't about to give up. He made the only choice he thought he had and now he's trying to make up for it. I love them together, and I love the side stories. I can't wait to read more in the series and from this author!
August 5, 2021
I really struggled with this one mainly because of the miscarriage 'secret' and how the sister seemed to handle that. I despise the use of that as an emotional battering ram to destroy a character or establish why a character is messed up the way they are.
Additionally I just did not like Grant, the father figure that manipulated or orchestrated so many events in this. I could not stand him.
Additionally I just did not like Grant, the father figure that manipulated or orchestrated so many events in this. I could not stand him.
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