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46
It’s November 3, 2020, and Emma McMasters has just been elected the 46th president of the United States. She’s facing a divided Congress and nation, allies that no longer trust America, enemies that have been emboldened, and the legacy of destruction left by the last administration. She must rebuild and reestablish trust in government, in the media, and in the electoral system, all the while carrying the mantle of first female president, and along with it, the hopes and dreams of millions of women and little girls who need her to prove that a woman can get the job done.
Palmer Estes has devoted her life and her career to the military, rising to become the highest-ranking female officer in the US Army. An enigmatic, battle-tested hero, she’s the perfect choice to brief the new president on one last, urgent, highly sensitive mission before she retires.
Two strong women, both driven to serve the country they love, neither prepared for the sparks that fly between them.
Palmer Estes has devoted her life and her career to the military, rising to become the highest-ranking female officer in the US Army. An enigmatic, battle-tested hero, she’s the perfect choice to brief the new president on one last, urgent, highly sensitive mission before she retires.
Two strong women, both driven to serve the country they love, neither prepared for the sparks that fly between them.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 8, 2020
82 people are currently reading
1330 people want to read
About the author
Lynn Ames
29 books288 followersLynn Ames is the best-selling author of sixteen books. She also is the writer/director/producer of the history-making documentary, “Extra Innings.” This historically important documentary chronicles, for the first time ever in her own words, the real-life story of Hall-of-Famer Dot Wilkinson and the heyday of women’s softball.
Lynn’s fiction has garnered her a multitude of awards and honors, including six Goldie awards, the coveted Ann Bannon Popular Fiction Award (for All That Lies Within), the Alice B. Medal for Lifetime Achievement, and the Arizona Book Award for Best Gay/Lesbian book. Lynn is a two-time Lambda Literary Award (Lammy) finalist, a Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Award finalist, a Writer’s Digest Self-Published Book Awards Honorable Mention winner, and winner of several Rainbow Reader Awards.
Ms. Ames is the founder of Phoenix Rising Press. She is also a former press secretary to the New York state senate minority leader and spokesperson for the nation’s third-largest prison system. For more than half a decade, she was an award-winning broadcast journalist. She has been editor of a critically acclaimed national magazine and a nationally recognized speaker and public relations professional with a particular expertise in image, crisis communications planning, and crisis management.
For additional information please visit her website at www.lynnames.com, or e-mail her at lynnamesauthor@gmail.com. You can also friend Lynn on Facebook and follow her on, YouTube, and Instagram.
Lynn’s fiction has garnered her a multitude of awards and honors, including six Goldie awards, the coveted Ann Bannon Popular Fiction Award (for All That Lies Within), the Alice B. Medal for Lifetime Achievement, and the Arizona Book Award for Best Gay/Lesbian book. Lynn is a two-time Lambda Literary Award (Lammy) finalist, a Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Award finalist, a Writer’s Digest Self-Published Book Awards Honorable Mention winner, and winner of several Rainbow Reader Awards.
Ms. Ames is the founder of Phoenix Rising Press. She is also a former press secretary to the New York state senate minority leader and spokesperson for the nation’s third-largest prison system. For more than half a decade, she was an award-winning broadcast journalist. She has been editor of a critically acclaimed national magazine and a nationally recognized speaker and public relations professional with a particular expertise in image, crisis communications planning, and crisis management.
For additional information please visit her website at www.lynnames.com, or e-mail her at lynnamesauthor@gmail.com. You can also friend Lynn on Facebook and follow her on, YouTube, and Instagram.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
June 6, 2020
4.25 Stars. This was a lot of fun! As soon as I saw this title, I knew I wanted to read this. A book about a president that acts like a real president and actually passes programs that help Americans… who would’ve thought?! This was a feel good story that put a smile on my face from start to finish.
This story is about Emma, the first lesbian president of the USA. Emma is widowed so she has to break the glass ceiling on her own. When she meets Palmer, one of the highest ranking women in the military, the connection is strong. Is there a chance for something more or is the country not ready to accept a president who dates?
As I mentioned already this is a real feel good book. While there are plenty of trials for the characters to overcome, this is one of those books you can’t help thinking “how great it could be”. This book feels so current. I mean yes it is supposed to take place this November, but what I mean is it feels like a book that you want to read right now. It’s a book that will make you smile and it will give you hope.
The reason I could not stick 5 stars on this is because I felt the “I love yous’ came about too quickly. This is not an insta love story, but it is really fast. The book skips ahead in the timeline so a good amount of days went by, but I needed more time for character interaction. I get why Ames did it this way, since dating a president has to be taking seriously, I still just wanted a little more before the big three words were mentioned. The romance itself was super sweet and enjoyable. The characters actually communicated which was shocking but very nice to see. I think people looking for a feel good story will enjoy this slightly mushy romance.
While the romance is a big part of the book, there is also a good amount of excitement. The book was even a bit more exciting that I figured. It is political of course, but it doesn’t get too bogged down into politics. If you don’t know a lot about American politics, you can still read and enjoy this. As a feel good book this does not have much angst, but it does have conflict for the characters to overcome so it will keep the pages turning. I sat down and read this in one sitting since I was enjoying it so much.
If you are looking for a feel good romance, for a story that gives you hope of what America could be, than give this book a chance. If you are an Ames fan I think you will be really happy with this. This book felt timely and just the kind of story we need right now.
An ARC was given to me by https://lezreviewbooks.com for a honest review.
This story is about Emma, the first lesbian president of the USA. Emma is widowed so she has to break the glass ceiling on her own. When she meets Palmer, one of the highest ranking women in the military, the connection is strong. Is there a chance for something more or is the country not ready to accept a president who dates?
As I mentioned already this is a real feel good book. While there are plenty of trials for the characters to overcome, this is one of those books you can’t help thinking “how great it could be”. This book feels so current. I mean yes it is supposed to take place this November, but what I mean is it feels like a book that you want to read right now. It’s a book that will make you smile and it will give you hope.
The reason I could not stick 5 stars on this is because I felt the “I love yous’ came about too quickly. This is not an insta love story, but it is really fast. The book skips ahead in the timeline so a good amount of days went by, but I needed more time for character interaction. I get why Ames did it this way, since dating a president has to be taking seriously, I still just wanted a little more before the big three words were mentioned. The romance itself was super sweet and enjoyable. The characters actually communicated which was shocking but very nice to see. I think people looking for a feel good story will enjoy this slightly mushy romance.
While the romance is a big part of the book, there is also a good amount of excitement. The book was even a bit more exciting that I figured. It is political of course, but it doesn’t get too bogged down into politics. If you don’t know a lot about American politics, you can still read and enjoy this. As a feel good book this does not have much angst, but it does have conflict for the characters to overcome so it will keep the pages turning. I sat down and read this in one sitting since I was enjoying it so much.
If you are looking for a feel good romance, for a story that gives you hope of what America could be, than give this book a chance. If you are an Ames fan I think you will be really happy with this. This book felt timely and just the kind of story we need right now.
An ARC was given to me by https://lezreviewbooks.com for a honest review.
June 9, 2020
This book got my attention starting with the title and cover but I wasn’t completely sold on until I read the acknowledgments. I could not resist the author’s idea of ‘after this extraordinary time of divisiveness (…) my job [is] to shine light in the darkness, to give readers hope. 46 is my love letter to all of you’. A liberal politician? Yes, please. A woman? Yes, indeed. A lesbian US President?! Absolutely sold.
In November 2020, Emma McMasters is elected the 46th president of the United States, the first woman, and a lesbian. She has a challenging future in front of her, rebuilding the country from the disaster of the previous administration and establishing a liberal agenda. Palmer Estes is the highest-ranking female officer in the US Army who dedicated her whole life to her military career and to defend her country. When they meet during a hostage crisis, an undeniable attraction is born but love and politics aren’t usually compatible…
There are two things that really surprised me about this book. One is the level of detail and thorough research involved in the descriptions of settings, administrative procedures, governmental agencies, military operations, etc. The other is the fact that it is very well written. This shouldn’t surprise me at all, as Lynn Ames is a seasoned author but somehow she flew under my radar. I read and liked ‘All that lies within’ but missed everything else, an omission that I plan to rectify soon.
If you are looking for a book with behind the scenes politics, a bit of action and power struggle but with a feel-good, positive (idealistic) message, ’46’ is for you. I absolutely loved all the ceremonial, governmental and administrative details, but I majored in Political Science so, it might be a bit too much for someone who’s not interested in this subject. Beyond that, the idea of a lesbian US president is something that any lesfic reader can easily approve and Emma McMasters is a great, larger than life character.
Even though the balance between politics and the main characters’ relationship will satisfy romance readers, for me, their chemistry is a bit lacking and the overall romantic plot feels a bit rushed. In my opinion, the romantic arc needed more passion, better intimate scenes, and a more gradual build of their relationship. In that case, it would have been an easy 5-star rating for me. Having said that, ’46’ is a very entertaining and enjoyable politics novel with a hopeful message that is so much needed in these current times. I wish that I could see a lesbian US President in my lifetime. In the meantime, we have lesbian fiction to keep on dreaming. 4.5 stars.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
In November 2020, Emma McMasters is elected the 46th president of the United States, the first woman, and a lesbian. She has a challenging future in front of her, rebuilding the country from the disaster of the previous administration and establishing a liberal agenda. Palmer Estes is the highest-ranking female officer in the US Army who dedicated her whole life to her military career and to defend her country. When they meet during a hostage crisis, an undeniable attraction is born but love and politics aren’t usually compatible…
There are two things that really surprised me about this book. One is the level of detail and thorough research involved in the descriptions of settings, administrative procedures, governmental agencies, military operations, etc. The other is the fact that it is very well written. This shouldn’t surprise me at all, as Lynn Ames is a seasoned author but somehow she flew under my radar. I read and liked ‘All that lies within’ but missed everything else, an omission that I plan to rectify soon.
If you are looking for a book with behind the scenes politics, a bit of action and power struggle but with a feel-good, positive (idealistic) message, ’46’ is for you. I absolutely loved all the ceremonial, governmental and administrative details, but I majored in Political Science so, it might be a bit too much for someone who’s not interested in this subject. Beyond that, the idea of a lesbian US president is something that any lesfic reader can easily approve and Emma McMasters is a great, larger than life character.
Even though the balance between politics and the main characters’ relationship will satisfy romance readers, for me, their chemistry is a bit lacking and the overall romantic plot feels a bit rushed. In my opinion, the romantic arc needed more passion, better intimate scenes, and a more gradual build of their relationship. In that case, it would have been an easy 5-star rating for me. Having said that, ’46’ is a very entertaining and enjoyable politics novel with a hopeful message that is so much needed in these current times. I wish that I could see a lesbian US President in my lifetime. In the meantime, we have lesbian fiction to keep on dreaming. 4.5 stars.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 9, 2020
46 by Lyn Ames was an interesting read as far as the whole pomp and circumstance of the presidency is concerned. A female president - and a lesbian one to boot - is a lovely dream. As a European I found it a bit heavy on the star spangled side but that is to be expected.
What didn’t work for me was the romance. The I love you’s came way too soon and I would have preferred a longer courtship. It felt a bit bloodless to me despite the numerous declarations of love. 46 didn’t bring me anything new, in fact I have to agree with Guerunche who said this book was already written years ago and with more heart.
f/f
3.4 Stars
What didn’t work for me was the romance. The I love you’s came way too soon and I would have preferred a longer courtship. It felt a bit bloodless to me despite the numerous declarations of love. 46 didn’t bring me anything new, in fact I have to agree with Guerunche who said this book was already written years ago and with more heart.
f/f
3.4 Stars
April 7, 2024
I'll say up front that this review is painful for me to write - primarily because I respect the hell out of the author and I was so looking forward to this book. She's positive, intelligent, talented and all about goodness and kindness. With an enviable background in politics and public service, she has unique perspective on the inner workings of government. So my issue with the book is not that it is implausible as far as the nuts and bolts of what it would be like to hold the highest office in the land. Ames has said she wrote this because it's a story we desperately need right now. Something to hope for. Something to make us feel not so lost during these surreal times. And I truly appreciate that. Who wouldn't want this woman in office right now - a conscientious progressive who would right all the horrendous wrongs being committed by the current administration?
My primary issues with the book are two-fold. One - this story was already written - years ago and more thoroughly, IMHO - by Blayne Cooper and T. Novan in the book Madam President. This reads like a much lighter version of that book - with some similar incidents occurring.
The biggest problem I had with it was there was almost no courting or romance before the two MCs professed their undying love for one another. I am a die-hard romantic, but this happened so ridiculously fast that it immediately took me out of the story. Really - I just had to roll my eyes at the rest of it after that which basically ruined the whole experience for me. Yes - I absolutely believe people can be immediately drawn to someone. Especially when one woman is the brilliant, beautiful first (lesbian) President of the U. S. and the other, the highest ranking female general in the armed services and war hero who is also a stunner. Who wouldn't? But these women literally spend only hours together before they are all in. Sorry, but no. WAY too fast. Especially when the President is a widow who has been mourning her dead wife for three years and the general has never had a relationship with a woman in her entire adult life. AND they are in their 50s, so have some life behind them (one of the things I actually appreciated about it.)
I'm sad to say I can't recommend this book. In fact, all I can think about doing right now is grabbing Madam President off my shelves and diving into that, because this one really left me wanting.
My primary issues with the book are two-fold. One - this story was already written - years ago and more thoroughly, IMHO - by Blayne Cooper and T. Novan in the book Madam President. This reads like a much lighter version of that book - with some similar incidents occurring.
The biggest problem I had with it was there was almost no courting or romance before the two MCs professed their undying love for one another. I am a die-hard romantic, but this happened so ridiculously fast that it immediately took me out of the story. Really - I just had to roll my eyes at the rest of it after that which basically ruined the whole experience for me. Yes - I absolutely believe people can be immediately drawn to someone. Especially when one woman is the brilliant, beautiful first (lesbian) President of the U. S. and the other, the highest ranking female general in the armed services and war hero who is also a stunner. Who wouldn't? But these women literally spend only hours together before they are all in. Sorry, but no. WAY too fast. Especially when the President is a widow who has been mourning her dead wife for three years and the general has never had a relationship with a woman in her entire adult life. AND they are in their 50s, so have some life behind them (one of the things I actually appreciated about it.)
I'm sad to say I can't recommend this book. In fact, all I can think about doing right now is grabbing Madam President off my shelves and diving into that, because this one really left me wanting.
April 12, 2021
This is the presidential book I should have prioritized and gotten to last year. Listened to this one, another great narration by Craden. Easy listen, kept me engaged and looking for ways to ignore my family on this wonderful rainy Sunday. Ames background in journalism and politics shines through and gives this novel a credible feel on every presidential turn.
October 7, 2020
If I had read this book, I would have probably given it 3 stars. There was no chemistry buildup. So I didn’t feel them falling in love. All of the sudden they were. But I listened to the audio version. I usually don’t do that before I read a book. But in this case I made the right choice. Cause Abby Craden... Need I say more. Abby made it a 5 stars book. Overall I give the audio 4 stars. It was entertaining.
September 28, 2020
This is the 6th Lynn Ames book I've read and all are 5*. That tells you everything you need to know - tears, joy etc etc - though she is a bit 'Lovely - Dovey' with her terms of endearment, love, lover, darling, sweetheart... But go with it.
June 12, 2020
This was a feel-good enjoyable book and a great antidote to current affairs.
February 1, 2021
This book is equal parts a political drama, a social statement and a romance.
Read the full review @ https://bestlesficreviews.blogspot.co...
Read the full review @ https://bestlesficreviews.blogspot.co...
September 6, 2024
4.5⭐️
An entertaining feel-good story with the first female US president at the center - a dream that will hopefully come true this year.
An entertaining feel-good story with the first female US president at the center - a dream that will hopefully come true this year.
December 13, 2020
My first Lynn Ames novel but definitely not my last.. A great book with many laughs, a few stop breathing moments, a couple of teary eye moments but definitely a feel good story. I usually prefer a little more slow burn and watching the characters fall in love in my romance novels but there were a few moments before they got together and luckily many after. Overall a great book and of course Abby Craden was fabulous as always
April 18, 2021
I loved this story, but it is a wonderful fairy tale. I don’t think I will see , in my life time, a female, lesbian president. And have many people happy about her new love, accept her national decisions, etc. But we can hope and dream.
Great writing, great and very likeable characters. I appreciate the amount of research that must have been required to write this story.
Ames is one of my favorite authors and Abbey Craden is my absolute favorite narrator. That makes this a fabulous audio book.
Great writing, great and very likeable characters. I appreciate the amount of research that must have been required to write this story.
Ames is one of my favorite authors and Abbey Craden is my absolute favorite narrator. That makes this a fabulous audio book.
July 22, 2020
Lynn Ames is one of my favourite authors. However, 46 which is has an interesting concept for a great storyline somehow just seemed rushed to me. The characters for me weren't completely developed, no real back story to them, and not really sure what the main storyline was.
Not what you would normally get from a Lynn Ames book.
Not what you would normally get from a Lynn Ames book.
January 7, 2022
I'm a sucker for a good political romance, and this one did not disappoint. The level of detail for all things presidential was really impressive, and Emma and Palmer's romance was so sweet. Loved it!
May 30, 2021
As soon as I saw this title, I knew I wanted to read this. As soon as I learned the audiobook was narrated by Abby Craden, I was in heaven.
I am German but yes, the American President is probably the most important role a woman can be. So what a topic!
We get to know the President Elect Emma McMasters just before the inauguration and accompany her from the beginning of her presidency on and during her first national crisis. I really love how Lynn Ames introduces her and lets us jump with her right into politics. Emma is portrayed as a strong leader and emphatic woman. She reminds me a little of Jacinda Ardern. I'm really into these first chapters, and the introduction of General Palmer Estes is done well, too. She is one battered soul and I can't imagine just how lonely she must be. She's pratical and strong yet kinda shy too, it's really a cute combination especially when she's crushing hard on Emma.
The topics bears a strong resemblance to "Madam President" by Blayne Cooper and T. Nolan, one of my favourite lesfics. However, even though the topic (first female President) is the same, both books cannot really be compared in my opinion. Whereas Madam President is super slow-burn, this one is super fast (not to say, the fastest I've ever read).
I truly get why Ames did it the way she did, and it is very believable in this context for me. The way the characters are portrayed, it just fits. They both think very strategic, and because of the circumstances it is clear that they only have one shot at getting this right. I really like that the characters communicate well, especially when they have so little time together. They both take a huge risk in conveying their feelings so early and getting all in, but to me them being on the same page is very believable with their chemistry. After all, in their line of work and in their position, and with their age, how are the odds for them to find a soulmate.
As much as I loved the politics and especially the beginning of the book, I must confess I was struggling getting immersed into the book at first. Firstly, for some reason the name "Emma" didn't seem fitting for the president (don't as me why... to much swanqueen fanfic maybe?). I also initially struggled with Abby Craden's voice for her. She started off with her "aunt" or "best friend" voice, and then later in the book as the romance progresses Emma is the "femme" voice whereas Palmer is the "butch" voice. (But I realize that this is critizising on a super high level. Abby Craden did a hell of a job and she could read the phone register to me and I would still love it. And I do love it!) That said, once the romance progresses, they're truly a really cute couple.
I do have the same issue like others before me with the "I love you's", which came way (!) too fast (and way too often, to the point it was really getting on my nerves and I wanted to scream "YES I GET IT") - especially for the general, who has never had a serious relationship. But as I said, apart from that detail, I really get that they go right into a serious relationship.
Also, in the second half of the book, the focus is very strongly on the romance. I would have liked a little more glimpses into the political world. And then, the time lapses. There are at times months between the MCs encounters. I get that this is probably realistic, but I would have loved to know their feelings while being apart more, and know what they were doing in their jobs. But this happens multiple time, first before Palmer retires and then also after the first year of their relationship. I felt kind of left out and a little detached from the characters because I would have loved to witness the process of them exploring each other.
All in all, Lynn Ames wrote a book that really hits a nerve. The story alone is well researched (as far as I can say that) and well though through, it's good in itself but with a few hiccups (4 stars for me). With Abby's narration it's great.
I am German but yes, the American President is probably the most important role a woman can be. So what a topic!
We get to know the President Elect Emma McMasters just before the inauguration and accompany her from the beginning of her presidency on and during her first national crisis. I really love how Lynn Ames introduces her and lets us jump with her right into politics. Emma is portrayed as a strong leader and emphatic woman. She reminds me a little of Jacinda Ardern. I'm really into these first chapters, and the introduction of General Palmer Estes is done well, too. She is one battered soul and I can't imagine just how lonely she must be. She's pratical and strong yet kinda shy too, it's really a cute combination especially when she's crushing hard on Emma.
The topics bears a strong resemblance to "Madam President" by Blayne Cooper and T. Nolan, one of my favourite lesfics. However, even though the topic (first female President) is the same, both books cannot really be compared in my opinion. Whereas Madam President is super slow-burn, this one is super fast (not to say, the fastest I've ever read).
I truly get why Ames did it the way she did, and it is very believable in this context for me. The way the characters are portrayed, it just fits. They both think very strategic, and because of the circumstances it is clear that they only have one shot at getting this right. I really like that the characters communicate well, especially when they have so little time together. They both take a huge risk in conveying their feelings so early and getting all in, but to me them being on the same page is very believable with their chemistry. After all, in their line of work and in their position, and with their age, how are the odds for them to find a soulmate.
As much as I loved the politics and especially the beginning of the book, I must confess I was struggling getting immersed into the book at first. Firstly, for some reason the name "Emma" didn't seem fitting for the president (don't as me why... to much swanqueen fanfic maybe?). I also initially struggled with Abby Craden's voice for her. She started off with her "aunt" or "best friend" voice, and then later in the book as the romance progresses Emma is the "femme" voice whereas Palmer is the "butch" voice. (But I realize that this is critizising on a super high level. Abby Craden did a hell of a job and she could read the phone register to me and I would still love it. And I do love it!) That said, once the romance progresses, they're truly a really cute couple.
I do have the same issue like others before me with the "I love you's", which came way (!) too fast (and way too often, to the point it was really getting on my nerves and I wanted to scream "YES I GET IT") - especially for the general, who has never had a serious relationship. But as I said, apart from that detail, I really get that they go right into a serious relationship.
Also, in the second half of the book, the focus is very strongly on the romance. I would have liked a little more glimpses into the political world. And then, the time lapses. There are at times months between the MCs encounters. I get that this is probably realistic, but I would have loved to know their feelings while being apart more, and know what they were doing in their jobs. But this happens multiple time, first before Palmer retires and then also after the first year of their relationship. I felt kind of left out and a little detached from the characters because I would have loved to witness the process of them exploring each other.
All in all, Lynn Ames wrote a book that really hits a nerve. The story alone is well researched (as far as I can say that) and well though through, it's good in itself but with a few hiccups (4 stars for me). With Abby's narration it's great.
September 4, 2020
I think I missed the romance part of this book.
June 30, 2020
4.5 stars
“46” finds a liberal, intelligent and principled lesbian as the President elect just as she takes the oath to undo the divisive and destructive leftovers of 45. With a lawyer’s background, a sharp mind and the legacy of her deceased wife’s dreams, she is determined to reunite the country and re-ignite the honest pride of America in what really makes it great. Just what we need to give us hope for a better future.
As always with Lynn Ames’ books you can tell immediately that it’s been extremely well researched and checked to within an inch of its life. The situations and players are realistic and the drama of the politics, situation room and interaction with the military are a great platform to showcase the two main characters. I have to admit I could have read double the politics just to see Emma at work overcoming both the legacy and the politicking of Washington. How a president can play the game but achieve their goals is an intriguing question as we saw with the wonderful Mr O.
The romance is, as always with Ms Ames, an instant attraction but slow burn. Emma and Palmer, the 4 star general she falls for, are wonderful women, dedicated to a life of service and paying the price for their choice; Emma constantly in the public eye, under threat and scrutiny at all times, Palmer with the legacy of the “don’t ask don’t tell” era written into her army DNA.
An uplifting read, giving hope that we could see the horrors of the last 4 years rolled back, reminding us that there are honest politicians who want the best for the country not for themselves. As we roll towards November Mr Biden now has a lot to live up to.
“46” finds a liberal, intelligent and principled lesbian as the President elect just as she takes the oath to undo the divisive and destructive leftovers of 45. With a lawyer’s background, a sharp mind and the legacy of her deceased wife’s dreams, she is determined to reunite the country and re-ignite the honest pride of America in what really makes it great. Just what we need to give us hope for a better future.
As always with Lynn Ames’ books you can tell immediately that it’s been extremely well researched and checked to within an inch of its life. The situations and players are realistic and the drama of the politics, situation room and interaction with the military are a great platform to showcase the two main characters. I have to admit I could have read double the politics just to see Emma at work overcoming both the legacy and the politicking of Washington. How a president can play the game but achieve their goals is an intriguing question as we saw with the wonderful Mr O.
The romance is, as always with Ms Ames, an instant attraction but slow burn. Emma and Palmer, the 4 star general she falls for, are wonderful women, dedicated to a life of service and paying the price for their choice; Emma constantly in the public eye, under threat and scrutiny at all times, Palmer with the legacy of the “don’t ask don’t tell” era written into her army DNA.
An uplifting read, giving hope that we could see the horrors of the last 4 years rolled back, reminding us that there are honest politicians who want the best for the country not for themselves. As we roll towards November Mr Biden now has a lot to live up to.
January 22, 2021
This was my first book from Lynn Ames. I listened to it from Audible with Abby Craden as the narrator, which I love. The genre is something I also find fascinating since I have read the “Honor” series from Radclyffe. But besides these two points, I must say the book as a whole was kind of disappointing: the story feels rushed, the characters are incompletely developed, they say “I love you” to each other before having their first date, which even if I understand the whole u-hauling lesbians generalization, for me it’s not an attractive feature. And it also didn’t feel like it fitted the type of characters Ames was describing: mature, military career type and the first female president of the USA.
So just 3 stars from me.
So just 3 stars from me.
August 30, 2020
Got as an audiobook. Good narration. Good story, maybe someday we will have a female president. Wouldn’t it be amazing to have a lesbian president. Wish our country was ready for that.
July 6, 2021
Presidential love
Lynn Ames writes a compelling story surrounding a 46th Lesbian President with being able to give love a second chance. The chemistry is amazing. Strong loveable characters. I enjoy Lynn's writing style and look forward to more books by this author.
Lynn Ames writes a compelling story surrounding a 46th Lesbian President with being able to give love a second chance. The chemistry is amazing. Strong loveable characters. I enjoy Lynn's writing style and look forward to more books by this author.
February 9, 2022
Loved the author's art, it is very admirable. The writing gave just enough but also withheld in such a way that I found myself filling in the rest of the settings with my imaginations. I think that style is marvelous and ingenious... something I have not easily come by for quite awhile.
The story revolves around a newly elected President of the United States of America, who just happens to be lesbian and single. The early chapters takes us through interesting events of her life in office. Further on, we start to feel the motion in place for a possible attraction and then the relationship and the complications involved.
The story itself was insightful, witty with a touch of romance. But as I said earlier, its the art of writing that engages my imagination that makes me really love the story.
The story revolves around a newly elected President of the United States of America, who just happens to be lesbian and single. The early chapters takes us through interesting events of her life in office. Further on, we start to feel the motion in place for a possible attraction and then the relationship and the complications involved.
The story itself was insightful, witty with a touch of romance. But as I said earlier, its the art of writing that engages my imagination that makes me really love the story.
June 13, 2020
Wished it had not ended.
I enjoyed meeting Emma and Palmer in this story. I am truly going to miss them. If we only had someone like Emma in our future to heal our country. I have read a lot of books in my 74 years, but 46 will be my favorite forever. As I was reading I kept thinking I didn't want to say good bye to Emma and Palmer. Anyone that picks this book up will not want to put it down. I gave this book five stars because I was not given an option for more 🌟 stars.
I enjoyed meeting Emma and Palmer in this story. I am truly going to miss them. If we only had someone like Emma in our future to heal our country. I have read a lot of books in my 74 years, but 46 will be my favorite forever. As I was reading I kept thinking I didn't want to say good bye to Emma and Palmer. Anyone that picks this book up will not want to put it down. I gave this book five stars because I was not given an option for more 🌟 stars.
January 19, 2022
This book... It would have had a lot of potential, but it honestly disappointed me.
It's about Emma McMasters, the 46th President of the United States of America. Not only is she the first woman to hold that office, but she's also the first queer woman. And then there's Palmer Estes, the highest-ranking female general in the US Army. That also sounds quite exciting and immediately drew me in. But then it started... Countless names and titles/ranks kept popping up. Every single person who was in the President's room was mentioned. So the author listed each person by first and last name, PLUS their rank. Imagine that with eight people or more in each chapter.
The whole thing got a bit wordy, and it was all far too detailed for my taste. Besides, most of the characters had absolutely nothing to do with the plot. And then there were all those long speeches by Emma...
At the same time, the author told the "romance" between the main characters extremely quickly. Suddenly they were head over heels in love and making plans for the future. Huh? Did I miss something? Also, in my opinion, the author didn't develop the two main characters properly.
I am also very sorry because I had high expectations for this book. This story was not for me.
___
Check out my blog www.wordsandfiction.com to find more reviews.
It's about Emma McMasters, the 46th President of the United States of America. Not only is she the first woman to hold that office, but she's also the first queer woman. And then there's Palmer Estes, the highest-ranking female general in the US Army. That also sounds quite exciting and immediately drew me in. But then it started... Countless names and titles/ranks kept popping up. Every single person who was in the President's room was mentioned. So the author listed each person by first and last name, PLUS their rank. Imagine that with eight people or more in each chapter.
The whole thing got a bit wordy, and it was all far too detailed for my taste. Besides, most of the characters had absolutely nothing to do with the plot. And then there were all those long speeches by Emma...
At the same time, the author told the "romance" between the main characters extremely quickly. Suddenly they were head over heels in love and making plans for the future. Huh? Did I miss something? Also, in my opinion, the author didn't develop the two main characters properly.
I am also very sorry because I had high expectations for this book. This story was not for me.
___
Check out my blog www.wordsandfiction.com to find more reviews.
June 15, 2020
I only wish there really was a President Emma McMasters to get rid of the orange douchebag that's currently and wrongly occupying the White House. Even a fictional character would be better than the bell end!
Also, I agree with @Lex about the 'I love you's' being said so quickly... but I am also annoyed at how every conversation was Emma and Palmer declaring their love for one another. We get it, they love each other... it got SO tedious and maybe Ames was trying to emphasize that the two were truly in love no matter how quickly they found that love for one another.
I kinda wish this was a longer book just so the relationship between Emma and Palmer could be built up. A series would've been good too... just sayin'.
Also, I agree with @Lex about the 'I love you's' being said so quickly... but I am also annoyed at how every conversation was Emma and Palmer declaring their love for one another. We get it, they love each other... it got SO tedious and maybe Ames was trying to emphasize that the two were truly in love no matter how quickly they found that love for one another.
I kinda wish this was a longer book just so the relationship between Emma and Palmer could be built up. A series would've been good too... just sayin'.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2020
This one is quite hard for me to review. For the first half of the book I was absolutely loving it and was telling myself to go slow so I could prolong the enjoyment. I absolutely loved the detail of Emma's presidential responsibilities and our introduction to Emma & Palmer - two strong, powerful women.
But then, we hit the romance and it was just too overly sweet and fast for me to get into and enjoy. The "I Love You's" etc just seemed to happen without too many direct interactions between our two leads. For me, this just lost my enjoyment of the book as it was a little hard for me to grapple.
In saying all this, l was completely blown away by the obvious amount of research that went into the writing of this book. It's the first book l've read of Ames and I'll definitely read another.
But then, we hit the romance and it was just too overly sweet and fast for me to get into and enjoy. The "I Love You's" etc just seemed to happen without too many direct interactions between our two leads. For me, this just lost my enjoyment of the book as it was a little hard for me to grapple.
In saying all this, l was completely blown away by the obvious amount of research that went into the writing of this book. It's the first book l've read of Ames and I'll definitely read another.
June 26, 2020
It’s not instant love like “wow the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen. I love her” the first five minutes, but after 3 Interactions declaring feelings and making promises? Yeah, instant love, not even me and my instant crushes. This could have been sooooooo good, but that rushed engagement and they 8 month waiting for a date declaring everlasting feelings? Nope. 3.5.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2020
Not even Abby could save this one. It was all just a little too "Go America" for me. But at least it was Abby...
June 16, 2020
4 Stars - The lesbian romance love child of The American President and The West Wing
A warm fluffy blanket of all the things you loved about the movie and tv show mentioned above as a balm to the soul. It's political fantasy wish fulfillment and I loved very minute of the first female president fixing all that's wrong with the world today. Bonus points for her being a lesbian. I thought all the politics, who-who in the White House - how all the stuff works - was done really well. I would totally watch this show. :)
I liked both characters a lot. They were both a bit too perfect but whatever - we are in a fantasy world so who cares. The only thing that didn't work for me was the uber, super duper, extreme-0-rama Insta-Love. Hoooboy... I mean... yeah. I think our heroes have seen each other a total of 7 times? They have one date and they are both in love. And not like smitten, crushy love, but like mountain high, valley low, river wide kinda love. These are serious, mature women - one's a 4 star general and the other is the freaking president of the united states fer cryin' out loud. All I am saying is, it was a bit much. But you know what? I DON'T CARE! :) It was worth the ride to believe a wonderful human, like Emma McMasters, could be President. That someone with the American people's best interests at heart was in charge. Someone who could bring us all together and heal our wounded democracy. I would gladly stay in this fantasy land for a loooong time.
A warm fluffy blanket of all the things you loved about the movie and tv show mentioned above as a balm to the soul. It's political fantasy wish fulfillment and I loved very minute of the first female president fixing all that's wrong with the world today. Bonus points for her being a lesbian. I thought all the politics, who-who in the White House - how all the stuff works - was done really well. I would totally watch this show. :)
I liked both characters a lot. They were both a bit too perfect but whatever - we are in a fantasy world so who cares. The only thing that didn't work for me was the uber, super duper, extreme-0-rama Insta-Love. Hoooboy... I mean... yeah. I think our heroes have seen each other a total of 7 times? They have one date and they are both in love. And not like smitten, crushy love, but like mountain high, valley low, river wide kinda love. These are serious, mature women - one's a 4 star general and the other is the freaking president of the united states fer cryin' out loud. All I am saying is, it was a bit much. But you know what? I DON'T CARE! :) It was worth the ride to believe a wonderful human, like Emma McMasters, could be President. That someone with the American people's best interests at heart was in charge. Someone who could bring us all together and heal our wounded democracy. I would gladly stay in this fantasy land for a loooong time.
June 17, 2020
I just finished reading 46 and I thought to myself, what would Palmer do? Well of course she’d write a review and tell you all how much she loved the story. So much so, it’s overtaken over my previous favourite book as my new favourite all time book.
I must thank the author for giving us hope. While I am not American, the rest of the world is impacted by your politics and the unity of the US would give the world a stability that it needs in these trying times.
While we can only hope on the political side, Emma and Palmer’s love story is so beautiful in its development that I am at a loss for words at how happy it made me feel.
There is political intrigue and a lot of well researched political procedures and protocols that I found to be both interesting and essential to the story.
Emma is a lesbian president who falls quickly and hard for the highly decorated Army General, Palmer. The love story between this mature couple was handled with grace, dignity and integrity. The inclusion of Emma’s dead wife, Heather in the story plot is handled well as she becomes an important part of the love story development.
The secondary characters are well developed and essential to the flow of the story. This story is well written and well edited.
Thank you, Lynn Ames, for taking the time to write us a story of hope and love, thank you for keeping me awake so I could read your story and thank you for not giving 45 a voice in this book. Kudos.
I must thank the author for giving us hope. While I am not American, the rest of the world is impacted by your politics and the unity of the US would give the world a stability that it needs in these trying times.
While we can only hope on the political side, Emma and Palmer’s love story is so beautiful in its development that I am at a loss for words at how happy it made me feel.
There is political intrigue and a lot of well researched political procedures and protocols that I found to be both interesting and essential to the story.
Emma is a lesbian president who falls quickly and hard for the highly decorated Army General, Palmer. The love story between this mature couple was handled with grace, dignity and integrity. The inclusion of Emma’s dead wife, Heather in the story plot is handled well as she becomes an important part of the love story development.
The secondary characters are well developed and essential to the flow of the story. This story is well written and well edited.
Thank you, Lynn Ames, for taking the time to write us a story of hope and love, thank you for keeping me awake so I could read your story and thank you for not giving 45 a voice in this book. Kudos.
February 28, 2021
The book's title stands for president No. 46. No, not Joe Biden. In this novel, lesbian Emma McMasters (a Democrat, of course) wins the presidency. Her wife had died three years earlier, so Emma moves into the White House alone.
The details about elections, the White House, the Situation Room, and what it's like during a crisis, seem spot-on. Lynn Ames crafted the story carefully.
Unsurprisingly, there's romance in the air. The other viewpoint character is Palmer Estes, the Army's highest-ranking woman general. The military details also seem well-researched.
I found the book very interesting, though the author's apparent belief in the U.S. government's ultimate goodness in foreign affairs is not one that I share.
The details about elections, the White House, the Situation Room, and what it's like during a crisis, seem spot-on. Lynn Ames crafted the story carefully.
Unsurprisingly, there's romance in the air. The other viewpoint character is Palmer Estes, the Army's highest-ranking woman general. The military details also seem well-researched.
I found the book very interesting, though the author's apparent belief in the U.S. government's ultimate goodness in foreign affairs is not one that I share.
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