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Butterfly Bayou #4
Bayou Beauty
Love returns to Louisiana's Butterfly Bayou in a new small-town contemporary romance sure to charm hearts, from New York Times bestselling author Lexi Blake.
Sylvie Martine was prepared to take Washington D.C. by storm, but she put that dream on hold when her beloved hometown of Papillon, Louisiana, needed her most. Now Sylvie's the mayor of the tiny town on the bayou that holds her heart. But for Sylvie, this can only be a pit stop on the way to bigger and better things. The last thing she needs is an old love to resurface and threaten her goals.
Rene Darois’s whole life has been about serving his family—no matter how much it hurts. He’s used to sacrificing for his large extended family and the company his grandfather created. But he can’t believe the latest he needs to find a wife and quick or he could lose it all. It would be a horrible situation. But he has just the his high school sweetheart. Sylvie is everything he wants in a wife—smart, funny, and caring—and he planned to woo her anyway.
Now he just has to convince Sylvie that their love is worth it all, or he and the bayou will lose her forever.
Sylvie Martine was prepared to take Washington D.C. by storm, but she put that dream on hold when her beloved hometown of Papillon, Louisiana, needed her most. Now Sylvie's the mayor of the tiny town on the bayou that holds her heart. But for Sylvie, this can only be a pit stop on the way to bigger and better things. The last thing she needs is an old love to resurface and threaten her goals.
Rene Darois’s whole life has been about serving his family—no matter how much it hurts. He’s used to sacrificing for his large extended family and the company his grandfather created. But he can’t believe the latest he needs to find a wife and quick or he could lose it all. It would be a horrible situation. But he has just the his high school sweetheart. Sylvie is everything he wants in a wife—smart, funny, and caring—and he planned to woo her anyway.
Now he just has to convince Sylvie that their love is worth it all, or he and the bayou will lose her forever.
336 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published July 27, 2021
96 people are currently reading
626 people want to read
About the author
Lexi Blake
183 books6,370 followersNY Times and USA Today bestselling author Lexi Blake lives in North Texas with her husband, three kids, and the laziest rescue dog in the world. She began writing at a young age, concentrating on plays and journalism. It wasn't until she started writing romance and urban fantasy that she found the stories of her heart. She likes to find humor in the strangest places and believes in happy endings no matter how odd the couple, threesome, or foursome may seem.
Her first novel, Their Virgin Captive: Masters of Ménage, Book 1, was a collaboration with New York Times bestselling author Shayla Black. There are five more books available in the series: Their Virgin's Secret, Their Virgin Concubine, Their Virgin Princess, Their Virgin Hostage, and Their Virgin Secretary. The next book in the series, Their Virgin Mistress, is releasing this April.
In addition to the Masters of Ménage series, she is the author of the Masters and Mercenaries series. There are eight full-length novels and four novellas available now, with more coming in 2015.
In 2013, Lexi also began releasing her urban fantasy series, Thieves. The first five are available now, with Ripper, a spin-off to the series, coming in 2015.
Sign up for Lexi's newsletter at http://lexiblake.net/contact.html#new....
For more information about her books, her appearances and her wacky life visit her Facebook page (http://goo.gl/q2IHnJ) or her website (http://www.lexiblake.net).
Her first novel, Their Virgin Captive: Masters of Ménage, Book 1, was a collaboration with New York Times bestselling author Shayla Black. There are five more books available in the series: Their Virgin's Secret, Their Virgin Concubine, Their Virgin Princess, Their Virgin Hostage, and Their Virgin Secretary. The next book in the series, Their Virgin Mistress, is releasing this April.
In addition to the Masters of Ménage series, she is the author of the Masters and Mercenaries series. There are eight full-length novels and four novellas available now, with more coming in 2015.
In 2013, Lexi also began releasing her urban fantasy series, Thieves. The first five are available now, with Ripper, a spin-off to the series, coming in 2015.
Sign up for Lexi's newsletter at http://lexiblake.net/contact.html#new....
For more information about her books, her appearances and her wacky life visit her Facebook page (http://goo.gl/q2IHnJ) or her website (http://www.lexiblake.net).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 174 reviews
February 7, 2022
Bayaou Beuaty makes me feel like joining into a gossip club in a small town. The gossip is juicy and the ladies are fun. Their banter is sassy and alive. I love it. It certainly makes my day interesting and fun.
What is missing is the chemistry between Rene and Sylvie. Miss Blake does not invest much on the tender moment nor the sexual attraction. The romance between Rene and Sylvie more telling than show. Which is suck in romance. I need more telling than show.
Well despite that, I still enjoying the gossiping ladies.
3 stars
What is missing is the chemistry between Rene and Sylvie. Miss Blake does not invest much on the tender moment nor the sexual attraction. The romance between Rene and Sylvie more telling than show. Which is suck in romance. I need more telling than show.
Well despite that, I still enjoying the gossiping ladies.
3 stars
July 28, 2021
This is one of those books that made me go all soft on the inside. I just loved it. I love this small town and all the characters I have gotten to know with each book in the series, and I just loved Rene and Sylvie. They weren't perfect. They make mistakes but it's that journey from making mistakes to realizing the love they have always felt for each other that just made me a puddle of goo. I even appreciated how nasty Rene's family was because it shaped and molded not only him but how these two ended up having each others backs. Great book! Great series!
December 12, 2021
I love being back in Papillon, Louisiana, this small town is so quaint and you can't help but falling in love with everyone that lives there. I have been looking forward to getting Mayor Sylvie Martine's story for a while and I am so happy that she has finally gotten her HEA.
Sylvie had been crushing on her brothers best friend for years but when Rene Darois proposed marriage to her she's not sure what to think, especially after he let her go in college. I enjoyed the way this story played out, not only did I enjoy watching the way Sylvie and Rene's relationship developed into what each of them had always wanted but with the story of his family business as well. There had been so many secrets kept and backstabbing done you really don't know who to trust. This wasn't only a great second chance romance this was a great romantic suspense..
I have been a fan of Lexi Blake's for many years now, it all started with her Masters and Mercenaries Series which is high on suspense and BDSM, this series is very different but it still has the signature Lexi Blake writing which draws you in and has you hanging on every word. I love this small-town Romance Series and I hope we have more books to come.
If you listen to audiobooks Jessica Almasy did a wonderful job with the narration of this book and I would definitely recommend you listening to this one.
Happy Reading!!!
Sylvie had been crushing on her brothers best friend for years but when Rene Darois proposed marriage to her she's not sure what to think, especially after he let her go in college. I enjoyed the way this story played out, not only did I enjoy watching the way Sylvie and Rene's relationship developed into what each of them had always wanted but with the story of his family business as well. There had been so many secrets kept and backstabbing done you really don't know who to trust. This wasn't only a great second chance romance this was a great romantic suspense..
I have been a fan of Lexi Blake's for many years now, it all started with her Masters and Mercenaries Series which is high on suspense and BDSM, this series is very different but it still has the signature Lexi Blake writing which draws you in and has you hanging on every word. I love this small-town Romance Series and I hope we have more books to come.
If you listen to audiobooks Jessica Almasy did a wonderful job with the narration of this book and I would definitely recommend you listening to this one.
Happy Reading!!!
July 24, 2021
BAYOU BEAUTY is the fourth instalment in Lexi Blake’s contemporary, adult BUTERFLY BEAUTY romance series. This is thirty-two year old, businessman and heir Rene Darois, and twenty-eight year old, Papillion, Louisiana Mayor Sylvie Martine’s story line. BAYOU BEAUTY can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Sylvie and Rene) BAYOU BEAUTY follows the second chance romance and relationship between is thirty-two year old, businessman and heir Rene Darois, and twenty-eight year old, Papillion, Louisiana Mayor Sylvie Martine. Sylvie Martine has been in love with her brother’s best friend Rene Darois for most of her life but ten years earlier, following a proclamation of need and want, Rene kissed our heroine, then walked out of her life. Fast forward to present day wherein Rene Martine is now Papillion Louisiana’s mayor, previously having worked in Washington DC, and in the ensuing years she has only seen Rene a handful of times. Rene Darois has never forgotten about Sylvie Martine but Sylvie continues to keep her distance much to the chagrin of our story line hero. Rene is in desperate need of a wife, and the only woman that calls to his heart is the woman whose heart he is about to break. What ensues is the marriage of convenience between Rene and Sylvie, and the potential fall-out as someone is sabotaging the Darois family business, and our couple have been targeted in the process.
Rene Darois had been groomed to take over the family business but greed, jealousy, secrets and lies are about to push Rene to walk away in an effort to save the woman he loves. As CEO, Rene has been at the top of his game but the greed and selfishness of several members of the Darois family are pushing at Rene’s barely controlled anger and need to throw it all away. The Darois dysfunctional family dynamics is about to play into the hands of a long, family history of secrets and lies, and in this Rene is growing tired of the betrayal. Sylvie Martine has never forgotten about the boy/man that had stolen her heart but when Rene walked into her office with a proposal of marriage, Sylvie was torn between head and heart knowing this may be her only chance to for a ‘happily ever after’ with the man that she loves.
The relationship between Sylvie and Rene is a friends to lovers, best friend’s younger sister, marriage of convenience for two people whose love for one another is obvious except to the people involved. Most of the family suspects that Rene’s marriage is a fraud but our couple are determined to prove that their marriage is anything but. The $ex scenes are all implied or fade to black.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including many of the previous story line couples and characters, and several members of the Dubois family. We welcome the return of Sylvie’s brother and Rene’s best friend Andre, a photojournalist, and of course Sylvie’s mother Marcelle Martine, and Delphine Dellacourt Guidry who like to ‘work’ with the supernatural. The reader is introduced to Rene’s mother Cricket, Rene’s uncle Charles, cousins Gabriel Layton and his sister Ashley, as well as Rene’s right hand man Louis.
BAYOU BEAUTY is a story of family, friendships, relationships and love; of greed, jealousy, secrets and lies; of betrayal and deceit, conflict, power and control. The character driven premise is fast paced and imaginative; the characters are animated, sassy and spirited; the romance is heart warming. BAYOU BEAUTY is another welcome addition to Lexi Blake’s BUTTERFLY BAYOU.
www.thereadingcafe.com
Told from dual third person perspectives (Sylvie and Rene) BAYOU BEAUTY follows the second chance romance and relationship between is thirty-two year old, businessman and heir Rene Darois, and twenty-eight year old, Papillion, Louisiana Mayor Sylvie Martine. Sylvie Martine has been in love with her brother’s best friend Rene Darois for most of her life but ten years earlier, following a proclamation of need and want, Rene kissed our heroine, then walked out of her life. Fast forward to present day wherein Rene Martine is now Papillion Louisiana’s mayor, previously having worked in Washington DC, and in the ensuing years she has only seen Rene a handful of times. Rene Darois has never forgotten about Sylvie Martine but Sylvie continues to keep her distance much to the chagrin of our story line hero. Rene is in desperate need of a wife, and the only woman that calls to his heart is the woman whose heart he is about to break. What ensues is the marriage of convenience between Rene and Sylvie, and the potential fall-out as someone is sabotaging the Darois family business, and our couple have been targeted in the process.
Rene Darois had been groomed to take over the family business but greed, jealousy, secrets and lies are about to push Rene to walk away in an effort to save the woman he loves. As CEO, Rene has been at the top of his game but the greed and selfishness of several members of the Darois family are pushing at Rene’s barely controlled anger and need to throw it all away. The Darois dysfunctional family dynamics is about to play into the hands of a long, family history of secrets and lies, and in this Rene is growing tired of the betrayal. Sylvie Martine has never forgotten about the boy/man that had stolen her heart but when Rene walked into her office with a proposal of marriage, Sylvie was torn between head and heart knowing this may be her only chance to for a ‘happily ever after’ with the man that she loves.
The relationship between Sylvie and Rene is a friends to lovers, best friend’s younger sister, marriage of convenience for two people whose love for one another is obvious except to the people involved. Most of the family suspects that Rene’s marriage is a fraud but our couple are determined to prove that their marriage is anything but. The $ex scenes are all implied or fade to black.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including many of the previous story line couples and characters, and several members of the Dubois family. We welcome the return of Sylvie’s brother and Rene’s best friend Andre, a photojournalist, and of course Sylvie’s mother Marcelle Martine, and Delphine Dellacourt Guidry who like to ‘work’ with the supernatural. The reader is introduced to Rene’s mother Cricket, Rene’s uncle Charles, cousins Gabriel Layton and his sister Ashley, as well as Rene’s right hand man Louis.
BAYOU BEAUTY is a story of family, friendships, relationships and love; of greed, jealousy, secrets and lies; of betrayal and deceit, conflict, power and control. The character driven premise is fast paced and imaginative; the characters are animated, sassy and spirited; the romance is heart warming. BAYOU BEAUTY is another welcome addition to Lexi Blake’s BUTTERFLY BAYOU.
www.thereadingcafe.com
July 29, 2021
I love being back in Papillon, Louisiana, this small town is so quaint and you can't help but falling in love with everyone that lives there. I have been looking forward to getting Mayor Sylvie Martine's story for a while and I am so happy that she has finally gotten her HEA.
Sylvie had been crushing on her brothers best friend for years but when Rene Darois proposed marriage to her she's not sure what to think, especially after he let her go in college. I enjoyed the way this story played out, not only did I enjoy watching the way Sylvie and Rene's relationship developed into what each of them had always wanted but with the story of his family business as well. There had been so many secrets kept and backstabbing done you really don't know who to trust. This wasn't only a great second chance romance this was a great romantic suspense..
I have been a fan of Lexi Blake's for many years now, it all started with her Masters and Mercenaries Series which is high on suspense and BDSM, this series is very different but it still has the signature Lexi Blake writing which draws you in and has you hanging on every word. I love this small-town Romance Series and I hope we have more books to come.
If you listen to audiobooks Jessica Almasy did a wonderful job with the narration of this book and I would definitely recommend you listening to this one.
Happy Reading!!!
Find out more here - http://bit.ly/NBReviewBB4
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**
I Purchased the audiobook version
You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
Sylvie had been crushing on her brothers best friend for years but when Rene Darois proposed marriage to her she's not sure what to think, especially after he let her go in college. I enjoyed the way this story played out, not only did I enjoy watching the way Sylvie and Rene's relationship developed into what each of them had always wanted but with the story of his family business as well. There had been so many secrets kept and backstabbing done you really don't know who to trust. This wasn't only a great second chance romance this was a great romantic suspense..
I have been a fan of Lexi Blake's for many years now, it all started with her Masters and Mercenaries Series which is high on suspense and BDSM, this series is very different but it still has the signature Lexi Blake writing which draws you in and has you hanging on every word. I love this small-town Romance Series and I hope we have more books to come.
If you listen to audiobooks Jessica Almasy did a wonderful job with the narration of this book and I would definitely recommend you listening to this one.
Happy Reading!!!
Find out more here - http://bit.ly/NBReviewBB4
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**I Purchased the audiobook version
You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
July 27, 2021
5 Star Review of Bayou Beauty (Butterfly Bayou #4) by Lexi Blake
It was great to be back in Papillon, Louisiana also known as Butterfly Bayou. Ms.Blake’s writing is so descriptive that I could easily imagine myself in the Bayou. Papillon is a quirky community full of characters that are fun and entertaining, add in the town’s wandering alligator Otis and you know you are in for a wild ride.
Sylvie Martine and Rene Darois are in the spotlight this time and their story was a a great addition to the Butterfly Bayou series. Sylvie is the mayor of Papillon and the last thing she wants or needs is Rene to make an appearance back in her life and turn it upside down.
These two have a past and when the unthinkable happens and he needs a wife in a hurry he turns to his high school girlfriend for help. He always planned to go after her again so this is the perfect opportunity, or is it? Can Rene convince Sylvie to take another chance on love with him?
It is is obvious to everyone around them that the connection that is between them is deep, but Sylvie has been hurt in the past and doesn’t want to let Rene back in. However she doesn't count on his determination and what follows is a a journey that the readers will quickly become invested in .
As always the quirky people of Papillon become involved and that led to some humorous scenes that had me laughing out loud on occasion. A well written, emotional, witty story that will draw you in and leave you wanting more.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
It was great to be back in Papillon, Louisiana also known as Butterfly Bayou. Ms.Blake’s writing is so descriptive that I could easily imagine myself in the Bayou. Papillon is a quirky community full of characters that are fun and entertaining, add in the town’s wandering alligator Otis and you know you are in for a wild ride.
Sylvie Martine and Rene Darois are in the spotlight this time and their story was a a great addition to the Butterfly Bayou series. Sylvie is the mayor of Papillon and the last thing she wants or needs is Rene to make an appearance back in her life and turn it upside down.
These two have a past and when the unthinkable happens and he needs a wife in a hurry he turns to his high school girlfriend for help. He always planned to go after her again so this is the perfect opportunity, or is it? Can Rene convince Sylvie to take another chance on love with him?
It is is obvious to everyone around them that the connection that is between them is deep, but Sylvie has been hurt in the past and doesn’t want to let Rene back in. However she doesn't count on his determination and what follows is a a journey that the readers will quickly become invested in .
As always the quirky people of Papillon become involved and that led to some humorous scenes that had me laughing out loud on occasion. A well written, emotional, witty story that will draw you in and leave you wanting more.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
June 4, 2021
Bayou Beauty (Butterfly Bayou #4) by Lexi Blake
3 stars
M/F Romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Sylvie is the mayor and sometimes, she feels that she's not using her potential. However, she loves her town and its people. She's willing to hear the most ridiculous arguments, help out whomever is in need and run bad people out of town. When her crush comes to town with a proposal, Sylvie isn't quite sure what to make of it.
Rene has been groomed to become head of his house - head of his entire family. But, when things start to look like he might be losing his position, he'll try anything to maintain his family's business and his family house. When Rene approaches his long time crush, he isn't quite sure how to ask for what he needs. But, let's just say that he bombs pretty hard.
These two have been dancing around their feelings for each other for years. When it looks like they could help each other, both know there really isn't a question. Of course they would help each other out. What starts as a convenient relationship turns in to so much more.
You'll want to throttle a few of Rene's family members throughout this story, Sylvie's family will keep you laughing and in the end, Rene and Sylvie have to decide for themselves if it's their time or if they have to try again.
I so wanted to love this book. It still has the wonderful people of Papillion in it, but sadly, this book just didn't flow well for me. There were times when it seemed incredibly slow and drawn out. The conflict was a good one, but I think I was waiting for more teeth and claws to come out. Then, with the romance part of the book, it read more YA than adult romance. Their feelings felt kind of stuck. So, while it was entertaining to read, it just wasn't a wow book for me.
3 stars
M/F Romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Sylvie is the mayor and sometimes, she feels that she's not using her potential. However, she loves her town and its people. She's willing to hear the most ridiculous arguments, help out whomever is in need and run bad people out of town. When her crush comes to town with a proposal, Sylvie isn't quite sure what to make of it.
Rene has been groomed to become head of his house - head of his entire family. But, when things start to look like he might be losing his position, he'll try anything to maintain his family's business and his family house. When Rene approaches his long time crush, he isn't quite sure how to ask for what he needs. But, let's just say that he bombs pretty hard.
These two have been dancing around their feelings for each other for years. When it looks like they could help each other, both know there really isn't a question. Of course they would help each other out. What starts as a convenient relationship turns in to so much more.
You'll want to throttle a few of Rene's family members throughout this story, Sylvie's family will keep you laughing and in the end, Rene and Sylvie have to decide for themselves if it's their time or if they have to try again.
I so wanted to love this book. It still has the wonderful people of Papillion in it, but sadly, this book just didn't flow well for me. There were times when it seemed incredibly slow and drawn out. The conflict was a good one, but I think I was waiting for more teeth and claws to come out. Then, with the romance part of the book, it read more YA than adult romance. Their feelings felt kind of stuck. So, while it was entertaining to read, it just wasn't a wow book for me.
July 28, 2021
I loved the story behind Bayou Beauty. Mayor Sylvie Martine and rich citizen Rene Darois have a history. They were good friends growing up, but when Rene moved to Chicago after college, he made it clear that there could be nothing between them.
Now they are back in Papillion, Louisiana, and Rene is under attack by his cousin who is trying to take over the family business-and house, where his mother has lived all her life. He is under pressure to get married, and comes up with the idea of marrying Sylvie. At first, she turns him down flat, but when she realizes the pressure he’s under, she agrees. But can these two friends actually become lovers as well and develop a true relationship?
I’ve liked both Sylvie and Rene in the earlier books, and we get to see their motivations more clearly. I loved how Rene proved that he understands Sylvie better than anyone else. We also get to see the other characters of the town, including Otis the alligator. Cousin Charles makes a perfectly good villain, and I wanted to slap the other members of Rene’s family, even his mother, who basically leaves him hanging far too long before bestowing a trust on him.
This was a feel-good book, with lovely characters, a complex plot, and wonderful secondary characters.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Now they are back in Papillion, Louisiana, and Rene is under attack by his cousin who is trying to take over the family business-and house, where his mother has lived all her life. He is under pressure to get married, and comes up with the idea of marrying Sylvie. At first, she turns him down flat, but when she realizes the pressure he’s under, she agrees. But can these two friends actually become lovers as well and develop a true relationship?
I’ve liked both Sylvie and Rene in the earlier books, and we get to see their motivations more clearly. I loved how Rene proved that he understands Sylvie better than anyone else. We also get to see the other characters of the town, including Otis the alligator. Cousin Charles makes a perfectly good villain, and I wanted to slap the other members of Rene’s family, even his mother, who basically leaves him hanging far too long before bestowing a trust on him.
This was a feel-good book, with lovely characters, a complex plot, and wonderful secondary characters.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
July 24, 2022
This was fine, if a bit underwhelming. I liked the characters and the idea of the story, but the relationship development felt a little too predicated on "they've always loved each other and just needed to realize it." There was also just too much family drama from Rene's family, and while it turned out fine in the end, I just wasn't in the mood for a story with that much family drama, specifically the evil cousin plot.
September 27, 2021
Skim read this in one day.
I had high expectations for this and all the angst got to be too much. Repetitive too.
Too soapy 4 me in final analysis.
I had high expectations for this and all the angst got to be too much. Repetitive too.
Too soapy 4 me in final analysis.
July 30, 2021
✦Review: BAYOU BEAUTY by Lexi Blake https://wp.me/p3d0RZ-bQ8
Publication Date: July 27, 2021
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated: 5 Stars
This is my favorite installment in the Butterfly Bayou series. It can be read as a standalone, but why miss out on the other books. I love the people in Papillon. Quirky yet ready to rally around each other when needed. Their banter and nosiness make for a well-rounded story that pulled me in and held me while the action unfolded. I love when a book makes me wish I lived there.
Sylvie was easy to like. I was just about to get tired of her letting preconceived notions make her snap at Rene when that cleared up and they moved on with their relationship building. Thank heavens because Rene is perfect for her. I thoroughly enjoyed watching them navigate through family drama and their personal hopes and dreams. This story had it all…love, greed, secrets, laughter, and redemption. A fun quick read that still has me smiling.
*Review copy provided by Penguin in exchange for an honest review.
~*~*~*~
Kindle https://amzn.to/35No6ak
Publication Date: July 27, 2021
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated: 5 Stars
This is my favorite installment in the Butterfly Bayou series. It can be read as a standalone, but why miss out on the other books. I love the people in Papillon. Quirky yet ready to rally around each other when needed. Their banter and nosiness make for a well-rounded story that pulled me in and held me while the action unfolded. I love when a book makes me wish I lived there.
Sylvie was easy to like. I was just about to get tired of her letting preconceived notions make her snap at Rene when that cleared up and they moved on with their relationship building. Thank heavens because Rene is perfect for her. I thoroughly enjoyed watching them navigate through family drama and their personal hopes and dreams. This story had it all…love, greed, secrets, laughter, and redemption. A fun quick read that still has me smiling.
*Review copy provided by Penguin in exchange for an honest review.
~*~*~*~
Kindle https://amzn.to/35No6ak
July 27, 2021
Check out our full post for BAYOU BEAUTY on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the fourth book in the series, and if you like town characters and sweet, hot, loving stories, then this series is for you. I would recommend that you start at the beginning and enjoy them all, as they all follow one another, but if you dip in here, I am confident you will fit right in!
Sylvie has come back to her hometown and taken on the mantle of mayor. I think this role immediately conjures up in my mind a serious, slightly matronly figure, old before her time person – but that really isn't who she is, even if she has to put on some affectations to get through her working day. She really is about the good of the town, not her personal advancement, although those around her expect great things for her political career.
Rene, who is the embodiment of his family business in the town, lives in the big house, and keeps all his family happy by making them plenty of money, is under pressure from a potential usurper of his role, which will likely lead to the end of the family business as it gets sold off and diluted for short-term gain. I enjoyed the machinations and fun his aunt has in wielding her influence. The most urgent change he needs to make to his life is to get married, or at the very least engaged. Had he not been so engaged in work problems, he would have asked Sylvie out as soon as she returned to town. He still loved her as much as when she left town, and now he has to ask her to pretend, when it is his long-held reality.
As these two work to convince others, they need most of all to accept it themselves. A fun and convoluted exercise, which mixes the fake romance with the second-chance one, and gives us an entertaining story. We also get to meet all the usual suspects of Papillon, and even Otis takes on his role with gusto.
I very much enjoy going for regular trips to the Bayou, and look forward to the next installment already!
Sarah – ☆☆☆☆
I’ve been waiting for Sylvie’s book since the start of the series. Fierce, creative, and driven, Papillon’s mayor somehow manages to cut through all of her hometown’s various strands of crazy with her own brand of calm and order.
In her own book, Sylvie’s college sweetheart returns to town – and promptly proposes to her. The whole sham marriage trope has become popular over the past couple of years, and it feels predictable and a little tired here. Thankfully, Sylvie and Rene are interesting enough characters to keep readers’ interest. And even when they felt a little bland in parts, their colourful mothers more than make up for it.
We’ve seen the divide between the rich and poor families in Papillon in previous books. Sylvie and Rene are the first interracial couple, but many of the themes feel slightly recycled. Rene’s family quickly descends into Dynasty levels of nasty drama, and it is once again up to the ordinary townsfolk to help Sylvie find her place in his world.
I absolutely loved the first couple of books in this series but this one feels a little more tired. Too many storylines and themes repeat here. I feel like Sylvie deserved better. I also hate it when a series drags on to the point where all the exciting, interesting women in the first books have become loved-up, cookie-cutter suburban mums with babies and white picket fences. There’s a baby yoga scene at the end of this book that just about made me scream. For the most part, I enjoyed this book. I just expect better from Lexi Blake.
Avid Reader – ☆☆☆
M/F Romance
Sylvie is the mayor and sometimes, she feels that she's not using her potential. However, she loves her town and its people. She's willing to hear the most ridiculous arguments, help out whomever is in need, and run bad people out of town. When her crush comes to town with a proposal, Sylvie isn't quite sure what to make of it.
Rene has been groomed to become head of his house – head of his entire family. But when things start to look like he might be losing his position, he'll try anything to maintain his family's business and his family house. When Rene approaches his long-time crush, he isn't quite sure how to ask for what he needs. But let's just say that he bombs pretty hard.
These two have been dancing around their feelings for each other for years. When it looks like they could help each other, both know there really isn't a question. Of course, they would help each other out. What starts as a convenient relationship turns in to so much more.
You'll want to throttle a few of Rene's family members throughout this story, Sylvie's family will keep you laughing, and in the end, Rene and Sylvie have to decide for themselves if it's their time or if they have to try again.
I so wanted to love this book. It still has the wonderful people of Papillon in it, but sadly, this book just didn't flow well for me. There were times when it seemed incredibly slow and drawn out. The conflict was a good one, but I think I was waiting for more teeth and claws to come out. Then, with the romance part of the book, it read more young adult than adult romance. Their feelings felt kind of stuck. So, while it was entertaining to read, it just wasn't a wow book for me.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
August 1, 2021
I liked this one, but feel like maybe I should have liked it more. It was better than ok, but not quite good. I liked Sylvie, Rene was so so for me. I see is love for Sylvie in the past and the present and liked the he took advantage of a situation to get the girl he always wanted, but he comes off as cold so much of the time. Then there is Rene's family, who quite frankly are bat shit crazy rich assholes that don't want to see how good they have things. The amount of drama caused by them was ridiculous. I was glad when at the end everything came out in the open. Sylvie's family was another brand of crazy, but the good kind. In the end, this one ended in a good way.
Read
April 26, 2021Hero married heroine, who he knew 10 years prior (he's the best friend of her older brother), as a marriage of convenience. Heroine once had a crush on hero who walks back into her life to marry for some specific reasons he gives but some readers who aren't fans of this trope might be turned off,
July 29, 2021
This was my favorite book out of the series thus far!
July 27, 2021
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Being Papillon's mayor is...interesting for Sylvie. Then her first and only love comes to her with a crazy proposition. Rene needs a wife (and children) to keep his job and his money, and for some reason he thinks Sylvie is just the woman for the job. He's never gotten over not taking a chance with her back when they were much younger, but his best friend (Sylvie's brother Dre) was right when he said Sylvie was too young back then for a serious relationship. But now that they're both adults, he's going to get his woman back. He just has to approach it the right way, the way he knows Sylvie will agree to his plan. They can have it all this way. Right?
Sylvie's never gotten over the heartbreak Rene left her with when he kissed her and told her how he felt, then left her life. And now he's back and wants to marry her?! He must be out of his mind or something...except he's not. The way he puts it lets her know she has to do it because Rene has always done what's best for his family and she's the last person who would want him to not do right by them. She'll just have to keep her heart out of it because she doesn't want it being broken, AGAIN, by her first love.
I love the town of Papillon, but I love its couples even more. Sylvie and Rene are so good together. It's obvious from the first page that they have a true love, even if they were both so young when they started. And it was even more obvious from the time Rene came to her with his silly plan that it was just a way to get his love back, even if Sylvie didn't realize it. I love the way she made him work to be with her, but made it worth it by being his rock, even at the end when he tried to push her away. They are so sweet together, surrounded by his mom, her mom, and her brother (whose story I am dying for now!), their new dog, and the various citizens of their hometown.
ARC via Social Butterfly PR for an honest review.
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October 8, 2021
https://openbooksociety.com/article/b...
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
Bayou Beauty is the fourth book in the Butterfly Bayou series by Lexi Blake. I must say right at the beginning, I really enjoy reading this series. Contemporary romance at its best with this title being the best so far in this series. I have waited throughout this series to see if Sylvie Martine would get her HEA and I am happy to report that all will be answered by reading Bayou Beauty. Of note – while part of the Butterfly Bayou series, Bayou Beauty can most definitely be read as a stand alone. Any back story information needed is provided as needed.
Rene Darois is in a business conundrum and then a solution hits him (as indicated between a talk Rene was having with Mayor Sylvie Martine:
“Let me get this straight. You want me to marry you to save your company from your evil cousin.”
Well that could create all kinds of interesting challenges – least of which is the knowledge that when they were younger, Sylvie had a huge crush on Rene, and unbeknownst to her – it was reciprocated. But given that Rene was older, he felt he had to let Sylvie explore life on her own before he acted upon his feelings (especially since his post graduating university job prospects would take him away from Papillion).
As one surmises, Rene and Sylvie do marry, but only to save Rene’s position within the company and the family home, Darois House – which is owned by the company for the CEO and family, so that Cricket Darois (Rene’s mother) could continue living in her home of many, many years.
The ensuing fight for control of the company between Rene and his cousin Charles takes many interesting twists and turns throughout the story. I must admit – some of the twists were rather surprising – especially coming from Madame Mayor! We also get to experience this “marriage of convenience” blossom as a result of time together and shenanigans planned and executed to assist in Rene’s ability to win over the votes for the upcoming shareholders (family) meeting. He so wants to remain as CEO.
We also get to know more about Sylvie as mayor and her passions. I really liked how Rene came to demonstrate how he knows Sylvie better than anyone else. We also got a mention of Otis the alligator (and town mascot) yet again ☺. And don’t get me started on the dog that Sylvie and Rene adopt. AWE!!
Being from a bilingual country (Canada) – I love how Rene whispered in French to Sylvie – so romantic:
“Ta place est ici” – meaning your place is here. Referring to Sylvie suddenly sitting on Rene’s lap.
Or
“Tue s la plus belle chose que j’ai jamais vue.” Meaning “You’re the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen.”
The cover art is good. I have enjoyed that each book in the series has a different dog on the cover.As has been in the past with this series, I am happy to say that if you like contemporary romance reads, then by all means pick up Bayou Beauty by Lexi Blake and enjoy the ride. I will patiently wait and see if another installment of the Butterfly Bayou series will be written ☺.
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
Bayou Beauty is the fourth book in the Butterfly Bayou series by Lexi Blake. I must say right at the beginning, I really enjoy reading this series. Contemporary romance at its best with this title being the best so far in this series. I have waited throughout this series to see if Sylvie Martine would get her HEA and I am happy to report that all will be answered by reading Bayou Beauty. Of note – while part of the Butterfly Bayou series, Bayou Beauty can most definitely be read as a stand alone. Any back story information needed is provided as needed.
Rene Darois is in a business conundrum and then a solution hits him (as indicated between a talk Rene was having with Mayor Sylvie Martine:
“Let me get this straight. You want me to marry you to save your company from your evil cousin.”
Well that could create all kinds of interesting challenges – least of which is the knowledge that when they were younger, Sylvie had a huge crush on Rene, and unbeknownst to her – it was reciprocated. But given that Rene was older, he felt he had to let Sylvie explore life on her own before he acted upon his feelings (especially since his post graduating university job prospects would take him away from Papillion).
As one surmises, Rene and Sylvie do marry, but only to save Rene’s position within the company and the family home, Darois House – which is owned by the company for the CEO and family, so that Cricket Darois (Rene’s mother) could continue living in her home of many, many years.
The ensuing fight for control of the company between Rene and his cousin Charles takes many interesting twists and turns throughout the story. I must admit – some of the twists were rather surprising – especially coming from Madame Mayor! We also get to experience this “marriage of convenience” blossom as a result of time together and shenanigans planned and executed to assist in Rene’s ability to win over the votes for the upcoming shareholders (family) meeting. He so wants to remain as CEO.
We also get to know more about Sylvie as mayor and her passions. I really liked how Rene came to demonstrate how he knows Sylvie better than anyone else. We also got a mention of Otis the alligator (and town mascot) yet again ☺. And don’t get me started on the dog that Sylvie and Rene adopt. AWE!!
Being from a bilingual country (Canada) – I love how Rene whispered in French to Sylvie – so romantic:
“Ta place est ici” – meaning your place is here. Referring to Sylvie suddenly sitting on Rene’s lap.
Or
“Tue s la plus belle chose que j’ai jamais vue.” Meaning “You’re the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen.”
The cover art is good. I have enjoyed that each book in the series has a different dog on the cover.As has been in the past with this series, I am happy to say that if you like contemporary romance reads, then by all means pick up Bayou Beauty by Lexi Blake and enjoy the ride. I will patiently wait and see if another installment of the Butterfly Bayou series will be written ☺.
July 20, 2021
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the fourth book in the series, and if you like town characters and sweet, hot loving stories, then this series is for you. I would recommend that you start at the beginning, and enjoy them all, as they all follow one another, but if you dip in here, I am confident you will fit right in!
Sylvie has come back to her home town and taken on the mantle of Mayor. I think this role immediately conjures up in my mind a serious, slightly matronly figure, old before her time person - but that really isn't who she is, even if she has to put on some affectations to get through her working day. She really is about the good of the town, not her personal advancement, although those around her expect great things for her political career.
Rene, who is the embodiment of his family business in the town, lives in the big house and keeps all his family happy by making them plenty of money, is under pressure from a potential usurper of his role, which will likely lead to the end of the family business as it gets sold off and diluted for short term gain. I enjoyed the machinations and fun his aunt has in wielding her influence. The most urgent change he needs to make to his life is to get married, or at the very least engaged. Had he not been so engaged in work problems, he would have asked Sylvie out as soon as she returned to town. He still loved her as much as when she left town, and now he has to ask her to pretend, when it is his long held reality.
As these two work to convince others, they need most of all to accept it themselves. A fun, and convoluted exercise, which mixes the fake romance with the second chance one, and gives us an entertaining story. We also get to meet all the usual suspects of Papillon and even Otis takes on his role with gusto.
I very much enjoy going for regular trips to the Bayou, and look forward to the next installment already!
This is the fourth book in the series, and if you like town characters and sweet, hot loving stories, then this series is for you. I would recommend that you start at the beginning, and enjoy them all, as they all follow one another, but if you dip in here, I am confident you will fit right in!
Sylvie has come back to her home town and taken on the mantle of Mayor. I think this role immediately conjures up in my mind a serious, slightly matronly figure, old before her time person - but that really isn't who she is, even if she has to put on some affectations to get through her working day. She really is about the good of the town, not her personal advancement, although those around her expect great things for her political career.
Rene, who is the embodiment of his family business in the town, lives in the big house and keeps all his family happy by making them plenty of money, is under pressure from a potential usurper of his role, which will likely lead to the end of the family business as it gets sold off and diluted for short term gain. I enjoyed the machinations and fun his aunt has in wielding her influence. The most urgent change he needs to make to his life is to get married, or at the very least engaged. Had he not been so engaged in work problems, he would have asked Sylvie out as soon as she returned to town. He still loved her as much as when she left town, and now he has to ask her to pretend, when it is his long held reality.
As these two work to convince others, they need most of all to accept it themselves. A fun, and convoluted exercise, which mixes the fake romance with the second chance one, and gives us an entertaining story. We also get to meet all the usual suspects of Papillon and even Otis takes on his role with gusto.
I very much enjoy going for regular trips to the Bayou, and look forward to the next installment already!
July 25, 2021
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
I’ve been waiting for Sylvie’s book since the start of the series. Fierce, creative and driven, Papillon’s mayor somehow manages to cut through all of her hometown’s various strands of crazy with her own brand of calm and order.
In her own book, Sylvie’s college sweetheart returns to town - and promptly proposes to her. The whole sham marriage trope has become popular over the past couple of years and it feels predictable and a little tired here. Thankfully, Sylvie and Rene are interesting enough characters to keep readers’ interest. And even when they felt a little bland in parts, their colourful mothers more than make up for it.
We’ve seen the divide between the rich and poor families in Papillon in previous books. Sylvie and Rene are the first interracial couple, but many of the themes feel slightly recycled. Rene’s family quickly descends into Dynasty levels of nasty drama and it is once again up to the ordinary townsfolk to help Sylvie find her place in his world.
I absolutely loved the first couple of books in this series but this one feels a little more tired. Too many storylines and themes repeat here. I feel like Sylvie deserved better. I also hate it when a series drags on to the point where all the exciting, interesting women in the first books have become loved-up, cookie-cutter suburban mums with babies and white picket fences. There’s a baby yoga scene at the end of this book that just about made me scream. For the most part, I enjoyed this book. I just expect better from Lexi Blake.
I’ve been waiting for Sylvie’s book since the start of the series. Fierce, creative and driven, Papillon’s mayor somehow manages to cut through all of her hometown’s various strands of crazy with her own brand of calm and order.
In her own book, Sylvie’s college sweetheart returns to town - and promptly proposes to her. The whole sham marriage trope has become popular over the past couple of years and it feels predictable and a little tired here. Thankfully, Sylvie and Rene are interesting enough characters to keep readers’ interest. And even when they felt a little bland in parts, their colourful mothers more than make up for it.
We’ve seen the divide between the rich and poor families in Papillon in previous books. Sylvie and Rene are the first interracial couple, but many of the themes feel slightly recycled. Rene’s family quickly descends into Dynasty levels of nasty drama and it is once again up to the ordinary townsfolk to help Sylvie find her place in his world.
I absolutely loved the first couple of books in this series but this one feels a little more tired. Too many storylines and themes repeat here. I feel like Sylvie deserved better. I also hate it when a series drags on to the point where all the exciting, interesting women in the first books have become loved-up, cookie-cutter suburban mums with babies and white picket fences. There’s a baby yoga scene at the end of this book that just about made me scream. For the most part, I enjoyed this book. I just expect better from Lexi Blake.
July 27, 2021
5 Is He Worth the Second Chance Stars!!!
It’s no secret how much I’ve enjoyed this series and this book is another reason because I fell in love with Sylvie and Rene’s story and their second chance even if Sylvie wasn’t sure she was willing to risk her heart again to the man that crushed it so many years ago.
As heartbroken as she was, Sylvie did not let that define her nor keep her from her goals. Several years later she’s the Mayor of Papillon, which made me admire this woman so much. She’s strong, independent, loves her friends and family and is incredibly witty. Rene Darois is a man that’s lived up to the expectations of his family and he’s never had a problem with that until he’s forced to take a wife to save his family…. And who else would be better than his first true love Sylvie Martine!!
Even after all these years, there’s a connection between them and as hard put as Sylvie is to reject Rene, the tiny part of her heart that still hopes they can love each other allows her to help this man. Along the way to a true love that is stronger than either ever expected, we get a lot of involvement from their family, friends and maybe a “love spell.” The way Ms. Blake describes each and every scene in this book has made me fall even more deeply in love with Papillion, Louisiana. I could feel the heat and humidity of the city, I laughed right along with some of the secondary characters that are so important to this story and of course was rooting for our H/h to finally realize that what started as a “fake” marriage had become so very real and they each other’s soulmate!!
It’s no secret how much I’ve enjoyed this series and this book is another reason because I fell in love with Sylvie and Rene’s story and their second chance even if Sylvie wasn’t sure she was willing to risk her heart again to the man that crushed it so many years ago.
As heartbroken as she was, Sylvie did not let that define her nor keep her from her goals. Several years later she’s the Mayor of Papillon, which made me admire this woman so much. She’s strong, independent, loves her friends and family and is incredibly witty. Rene Darois is a man that’s lived up to the expectations of his family and he’s never had a problem with that until he’s forced to take a wife to save his family…. And who else would be better than his first true love Sylvie Martine!!
Even after all these years, there’s a connection between them and as hard put as Sylvie is to reject Rene, the tiny part of her heart that still hopes they can love each other allows her to help this man. Along the way to a true love that is stronger than either ever expected, we get a lot of involvement from their family, friends and maybe a “love spell.” The way Ms. Blake describes each and every scene in this book has made me fall even more deeply in love with Papillion, Louisiana. I could feel the heat and humidity of the city, I laughed right along with some of the secondary characters that are so important to this story and of course was rooting for our H/h to finally realize that what started as a “fake” marriage had become so very real and they each other’s soulmate!!
July 26, 2021
Bayou Beauty, the fourth installment in Lexi Blake's Butterfly Bayou romances, was a delightfully light-hearted read and a wonderful addition to this beloved series.
Long-time friends Rene Darois and Sylvie Martine adored one another secretly from afar. One passionate and life-changing kiss shared long ago was seared into their hearts and minds for decades, but the timing for this couple was off. Now, to maintain control of his family's corporate legacy, the rich, powerful and debonair Rene needs a bride and the only woman his heart desires is Papillon's mayor - Sylvie. Not allowing another missed opportunity to slip through his fingertips, Rene sets off on a quest to convince the woman he loves to take a leap of faith and a chance on him.
And so begins their journey towards love that I absolutely enjoyed. I adored this couple - Rene's charismatic and sexy charm as well as Sylvie's strong-willed yet vulnerable demeanor. They complemented each other perfectly, and I loved seeing their relationship grow and blossom. Blake is a master in writing touching and memorable tales that pull on my heartstrings. Bayou Beauty was no exception. This novel is the perfect read for fans of contemporary romances involving the friends-to-lovers and marriage of convenience genres that I highly recommend. Although part of a series, this can certainly be read as a stand-alone.
Long-time friends Rene Darois and Sylvie Martine adored one another secretly from afar. One passionate and life-changing kiss shared long ago was seared into their hearts and minds for decades, but the timing for this couple was off. Now, to maintain control of his family's corporate legacy, the rich, powerful and debonair Rene needs a bride and the only woman his heart desires is Papillon's mayor - Sylvie. Not allowing another missed opportunity to slip through his fingertips, Rene sets off on a quest to convince the woman he loves to take a leap of faith and a chance on him.
And so begins their journey towards love that I absolutely enjoyed. I adored this couple - Rene's charismatic and sexy charm as well as Sylvie's strong-willed yet vulnerable demeanor. They complemented each other perfectly, and I loved seeing their relationship grow and blossom. Blake is a master in writing touching and memorable tales that pull on my heartstrings. Bayou Beauty was no exception. This novel is the perfect read for fans of contemporary romances involving the friends-to-lovers and marriage of convenience genres that I highly recommend. Although part of a series, this can certainly be read as a stand-alone.
July 30, 2021
I love my visits to Papillon, Louisiana and Bayou Beauty is a great addition to this entertaining series.
All of these books can be read and enjoyed as stand-alone’s but I’m sure one visit will never be enough and its now Sylvie Martine and Rene Darois’s turn to entertain us.
Sylvie has loved her brother’s best friend Rene friends for as long as she can remember but after only sharing one kiss he walked out of her life. Fast forward to today and we see Sylvie come hone after losing her father and becoming Mayor of Papillon. Running the town she is surprised and stunned to have Rene come to her with a proposal, a fling in the past is hardly a good standing for a marriage but Rene needs a wife urgently so will Sylvie risk her heart again….
A marriage of convenience could be the answer but what happens when scene starts to sabotage the Darois family business and more importantly who will take the fall out…
If you have never visited this town I highly recommend you one click this one because I sure you are going to love this town and it’s quirky community and let’s not forget Otis the towns alligator who wanders around like he owns the place. This is a friends to lovers, second chance, small town romance all rolled into one and it’s certainly the best of all these troupes. Bayou Butterfly ticked all my boxes, I smiled I giggled, I laughed out loud but it was the friendship and love that took this book to another level. Loved everything about this gem of a read.
All of these books can be read and enjoyed as stand-alone’s but I’m sure one visit will never be enough and its now Sylvie Martine and Rene Darois’s turn to entertain us.
Sylvie has loved her brother’s best friend Rene friends for as long as she can remember but after only sharing one kiss he walked out of her life. Fast forward to today and we see Sylvie come hone after losing her father and becoming Mayor of Papillon. Running the town she is surprised and stunned to have Rene come to her with a proposal, a fling in the past is hardly a good standing for a marriage but Rene needs a wife urgently so will Sylvie risk her heart again….
A marriage of convenience could be the answer but what happens when scene starts to sabotage the Darois family business and more importantly who will take the fall out…
If you have never visited this town I highly recommend you one click this one because I sure you are going to love this town and it’s quirky community and let’s not forget Otis the towns alligator who wanders around like he owns the place. This is a friends to lovers, second chance, small town romance all rolled into one and it’s certainly the best of all these troupes. Bayou Butterfly ticked all my boxes, I smiled I giggled, I laughed out loud but it was the friendship and love that took this book to another level. Loved everything about this gem of a read.
July 12, 2023
Masterpiece
I adore Lexi and her Lexiverse is always making jump up in excitement.
With Bayou Beauty she created an absolute masterpiece second-chance romance.
For a second chance to be amazing you have to write a really good story and Lexi did just that.
We met Sylvie in other books and I already adored her and her momma. A strong, fierceless woman who is also the mayor - with a mother who dabbles in physic in the backroom of her beauty salon.
Then there’s Renee, who we got to know as the town’s sponsor, but he turns out to be so much more. His family is crazy and the plot just shows us how important family really is.
An absolute masterpiece and I loved every minute of it!
I adore Lexi and her Lexiverse is always making jump up in excitement.
With Bayou Beauty she created an absolute masterpiece second-chance romance.
For a second chance to be amazing you have to write a really good story and Lexi did just that.
We met Sylvie in other books and I already adored her and her momma. A strong, fierceless woman who is also the mayor - with a mother who dabbles in physic in the backroom of her beauty salon.
Then there’s Renee, who we got to know as the town’s sponsor, but he turns out to be so much more. His family is crazy and the plot just shows us how important family really is.
An absolute masterpiece and I loved every minute of it!
June 8, 2023
I have been enjoying the Butterfly Bayou series and Bayou Beauty is another wonderful addition to the series. Sylvie Martine and her brother's best friend Rene Darois were just beginning to explore their feelings toward one another when school and work separated them. Rene is the CEO of his family's company after the death of his father and Sylvie is now the mayor of Papillon, Louisiana after a couple of years taking Washington D.C. by storm. Now, Rene's cousin is poised to oust him from the company and using a clause that he had to be married, Rene heads to Papillon to propose a fake marriage to the woman he has never gotten over. Sylvie still has feelings for him as well, but she is not a fan of the fake marriage, especially because she knows her mother will never believe her. Will time spent together convince them that their fake marriage should be a real one? Will Rene be able to win against his cousin?
I really enjoy both the setting and characters in this series. It was nice to visit with couple who had gotten together in previous stories. Sylvie is a whirlwind. She is a better mayor than any I know, attending so many activities and meeting with her constituents, that she has little time for romance and dating. Rene has worked hard to keep the company profitable for the family, doing what he promised his father he would to the detriment of a life of his own. I so wanted him to make a go of his relationship with Sylvie as well as run the company for his family, but could he do both? Lexi Blake does a good job with her characters. It is easy to like the good guys and dislike the ones who are trying to rock the boat. The town is a wonderful place to live and as in any small town romance stories, the gossip is a hoot. There is even some magic involved with spells and fortune telling. Themes in this story are first love, work vs enjoying life, jealousy, greed, power and friendship. Fake relationships are one of my favourite tropes and this one was well done. The story was somewhat predictable and I had figured out some of the things that provided the angst in the story, but I still enjoyed it. The audiobook narrated by Jessica Almasy was enjoyable. Her voices are fun and her accents and expression are entertaining. I enjoyed listening to this one.
I really enjoy both the setting and characters in this series. It was nice to visit with couple who had gotten together in previous stories. Sylvie is a whirlwind. She is a better mayor than any I know, attending so many activities and meeting with her constituents, that she has little time for romance and dating. Rene has worked hard to keep the company profitable for the family, doing what he promised his father he would to the detriment of a life of his own. I so wanted him to make a go of his relationship with Sylvie as well as run the company for his family, but could he do both? Lexi Blake does a good job with her characters. It is easy to like the good guys and dislike the ones who are trying to rock the boat. The town is a wonderful place to live and as in any small town romance stories, the gossip is a hoot. There is even some magic involved with spells and fortune telling. Themes in this story are first love, work vs enjoying life, jealousy, greed, power and friendship. Fake relationships are one of my favourite tropes and this one was well done. The story was somewhat predictable and I had figured out some of the things that provided the angst in the story, but I still enjoyed it. The audiobook narrated by Jessica Almasy was enjoyable. Her voices are fun and her accents and expression are entertaining. I enjoyed listening to this one.
July 28, 2021
Was a great read from beginning to end and I enjoyed the journey! Adored this small-town, down home romance filled with engaging charters, witty dialog, heart racing twists, emotional turns and sweetly thrilling passion.
July 29, 2022
Absolutely love this series!! With each book Lexi writes , I fall in love with the characters! Each story is original and you can’t help but want to visit this charming place!! I can’t wait for more in the series
August 11, 2021
Four and a half stars
Bayou Beauty is the fourth in Lexi Blake’s Butterfly Bayou series set in Papillon, Louisiana. A small-town, brother’s best friend, second-chance, fake-relationship, marriage of convenience story, Bayou Beauty is charming and warm and lovely.
Rene Darois carries the weight of the world on his shoulders, or at least the family business and his mom, while his needs have always taken a backseat to his numerous other responsibilities. Sylvie Martine is his best friend’s younger sister, and he’s always loved her, but determined not to hold her back from living her best life, he steps away from her as she’s coming into her own.
Lexi Blake’s writing is engaging and her characters sympathetic and three-dimensional. Bayou Beauty is a page turner in all the best ways, and stands alone well. It's a wonderful small-town story, heavy on the family ties. I jumped in not having read the previous books in the series, and enjoyed it thoroughly, although I’m looking forward to catching up now!
Bayou Beauty is the fourth in Lexi Blake’s Butterfly Bayou series set in Papillon, Louisiana. A small-town, brother’s best friend, second-chance, fake-relationship, marriage of convenience story, Bayou Beauty is charming and warm and lovely.
Rene Darois carries the weight of the world on his shoulders, or at least the family business and his mom, while his needs have always taken a backseat to his numerous other responsibilities. Sylvie Martine is his best friend’s younger sister, and he’s always loved her, but determined not to hold her back from living her best life, he steps away from her as she’s coming into her own.
Lexi Blake’s writing is engaging and her characters sympathetic and three-dimensional. Bayou Beauty is a page turner in all the best ways, and stands alone well. It's a wonderful small-town story, heavy on the family ties. I jumped in not having read the previous books in the series, and enjoyed it thoroughly, although I’m looking forward to catching up now!
July 27, 2021
Wow, I loved this book. Loved how Sylvie and Rene had always been so close. She’s his best friend’s younger sister. But he chooses to let her go before anything really happens. There’s a lot of drama with his family many years later and he “needs” to marry her. Can she help him? She’s the only one he trusts. There’s a bit of heartbreak too but thankfully there’s a very happy ever after. I loved feeling connected with the characters. I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy and I highly recommend this book.
July 20, 2023
It's a fun book and a great continuation to a great series. The charachters Rene and Sylvie, along with their support system, are very relatable .
Recommended 👍
Recommended 👍
July 6, 2021
What a wonderful town Papillon, Louisiana is! I really like the people there. They seem so real. I get 100% invested when I sit down to read a story about the people there. I loved Sylvie Martine's and Rene Darois' story. They make such a lovely couple. Getting to their Happily Ever After wasn't easy but their journey was a joy for me to read.
I received an ARC in exchange for a honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for a honest review.
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