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Kismet
What do you do when love strikes at the worst possible moment?
Dagny is convinced she’s about to get engaged while on holiday in England. What she doesn’t expect is getting dumped. To make matters worse, it happens on Christmas Eve.
Allison receives an assignment from her boss that will make Allison’s journalistic career. The investigation will call for one her complete dedication to the story and nothing else.
The two meet on Christmas Eve night, and while Allison is brimming with joy, Dagny wants nothing to do with anyone. However, what’s worse? Being alone on a holiday or spending it with a stranger neither will probably ever see again?
There’s one major problem. They just might be perfect for each other despite the terrible timing.
Is it kismet or a curse?
Best-selling lesbian fiction author TB Markinson has written a heart-warming romance about letting fate take its course to live life to the fullest. Buy it today!
Please This story started as a 20K novella that was originally published in a limited-time lesfic box set back in the winter of 2018. Some of the elements of the original idea have remained the same, but the project has expanded to over 65K, making it a full-length novel.
Dagny is convinced she’s about to get engaged while on holiday in England. What she doesn’t expect is getting dumped. To make matters worse, it happens on Christmas Eve.
Allison receives an assignment from her boss that will make Allison’s journalistic career. The investigation will call for one her complete dedication to the story and nothing else.
The two meet on Christmas Eve night, and while Allison is brimming with joy, Dagny wants nothing to do with anyone. However, what’s worse? Being alone on a holiday or spending it with a stranger neither will probably ever see again?
There’s one major problem. They just might be perfect for each other despite the terrible timing.
Is it kismet or a curse?
Best-selling lesbian fiction author TB Markinson has written a heart-warming romance about letting fate take its course to live life to the fullest. Buy it today!
Please This story started as a 20K novella that was originally published in a limited-time lesfic box set back in the winter of 2018. Some of the elements of the original idea have remained the same, but the project has expanded to over 65K, making it a full-length novel.
358 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2020
163 people are currently reading
214 people want to read
About the author
T.B. Markinson
72 books1,161 followersT. B. Markinson is an American writer, living in England. When she isn't writing, she’s traveling the world, watching sports on the telly, visiting pubs in England, or taking the dog for a walk. Not necessarily in that order.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
January 10, 2021
«Kismet» is a cute love story that starts with a bang on Christmas Eve when Dagny is happily waiting for her boyfriend to pop the question, but he unceremoniously dumps her during a vacation in London. Although hurt and frustrated that she had not seen this coming, she decides to visit Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park anyway, better than brooding alone in her hotel room. Here she meets Allison, an American journalist currently stationed in London.
What I like about this story is that we see characters from previous books like Allison from the short story The Setup and JJ Cavendish, the The Miracle Girl from the book of the same name. Both MC's are likable and have their quirks and flaws. Their love story is sweet but happens a bit fast. When Dagny finally starts to fight back and stand up for herself, I liked her too, I had some trouble with her at the beginning. I connected with Allison right away, maybe because I also work in the newspaper business, she is the ever-curious and interested investigative journalist who puts the job first. And in her line of work, for security reasons, it's important that she doesn't tell anything until the story is done and published.
The romance is a little too fast for my taste but in itself a nice love-story. The chemistry is there and soon you are rooting for them as a couple. Allison needs to trust herself she is worth to be loved and Dagny has to learn to stay on her own feet after being way too long in a toxic relationship.
What I didn't like so much was that Dagny mentioned too often that she is an orphan, it came across a bit whiny. She lost her parents tragically, in a way I can't even imagine how I would feel about, but I would have been interested in what really happened back then. The story might not have been as fluffy, but it would have been more interesting and would have gained more depth.
The fact that Allison's secret investigation is often talked about, and she has a striking influence on the story but is not resolved at the end disappointed me a bit. I would have really liked to know what kind of viper's nest she had stirred up.
Overall, Kismet is a light and sweet love story, without a lot of drama. A good way to start the reading year. I love TB's writing style very much, always peppered with a bit of humor and written fluently. And everything I’ve read so far by this author, I liked very much.
My rating 3.5 stars.
Many thanks to the author for receiving an ARC for an honest review
This review will also be placed on Lezreviewbooks.com
What I like about this story is that we see characters from previous books like Allison from the short story The Setup and JJ Cavendish, the The Miracle Girl from the book of the same name. Both MC's are likable and have their quirks and flaws. Their love story is sweet but happens a bit fast. When Dagny finally starts to fight back and stand up for herself, I liked her too, I had some trouble with her at the beginning. I connected with Allison right away, maybe because I also work in the newspaper business, she is the ever-curious and interested investigative journalist who puts the job first. And in her line of work, for security reasons, it's important that she doesn't tell anything until the story is done and published.
The romance is a little too fast for my taste but in itself a nice love-story. The chemistry is there and soon you are rooting for them as a couple. Allison needs to trust herself she is worth to be loved and Dagny has to learn to stay on her own feet after being way too long in a toxic relationship.
What I didn't like so much was that Dagny mentioned too often that she is an orphan, it came across a bit whiny. She lost her parents tragically, in a way I can't even imagine how I would feel about, but I would have been interested in what really happened back then. The story might not have been as fluffy, but it would have been more interesting and would have gained more depth.
The fact that Allison's secret investigation is often talked about, and she has a striking influence on the story but is not resolved at the end disappointed me a bit. I would have really liked to know what kind of viper's nest she had stirred up.
Overall, Kismet is a light and sweet love story, without a lot of drama. A good way to start the reading year. I love TB's writing style very much, always peppered with a bit of humor and written fluently. And everything I’ve read so far by this author, I liked very much.
My rating 3.5 stars.
Many thanks to the author for receiving an ARC for an honest review
This review will also be placed on Lezreviewbooks.com
December 8, 2020
Kindle Unlimited Read. Can't say I enjoyed this one. The characters and situations were both unlikable and unrelatable.
Dagny in particular was a spineless individual. Always calling herself an 'orphan' to make others feel sorry for her - but it's not like she grew up an orphan, it's just her parents have both passed unfortunately now she's in her late 30's.
Her long term boyfriend dumps her ass on Christmas Eve in London - but I kinda got the feeling like I couldn't blame him? lol... It's bad when you're almost siding with the antagonist!
It appears she has no real life for herself, she has a job of her own yes (although we never see her doing it?) but pretty much only 1 friend and seemingly no real hobbies or motivation to do anything else in life. It's pitiful really. Also the fact she clings straight onto the first person to show her any sympathy, aka Allison, just made me feel like WTF?
She's basically going to repeat all the same mistakes she had with her first relationship, with this one because she's never learned a damn thing about herself, or grown up in any way. And Allison the love interest goes along, like there aren't red flags and warning signs popping up. **shudder**
As for Allison, her deal is strange. She's this outgoing confident woman who treks around the world investigating seemingly dangerous news stories. But she can never be serious. Always cracking jokes, completely unable to be real about herself and her own past relationships seemed shallow and selfish, too and she seems completely unapologetic about it.
Which basically sums up my whole feeling about them as people, and a couple. Shallow and Selfish.
It just did not make me feel good, at all.
Dagny in particular was a spineless individual. Always calling herself an 'orphan' to make others feel sorry for her - but it's not like she grew up an orphan, it's just her parents have both passed unfortunately now she's in her late 30's.
Her long term boyfriend dumps her ass on Christmas Eve in London - but I kinda got the feeling like I couldn't blame him? lol... It's bad when you're almost siding with the antagonist!
It appears she has no real life for herself, she has a job of her own yes (although we never see her doing it?) but pretty much only 1 friend and seemingly no real hobbies or motivation to do anything else in life. It's pitiful really. Also the fact she clings straight onto the first person to show her any sympathy, aka Allison, just made me feel like WTF?
She's basically going to repeat all the same mistakes she had with her first relationship, with this one because she's never learned a damn thing about herself, or grown up in any way. And Allison the love interest goes along, like there aren't red flags and warning signs popping up. **shudder**
As for Allison, her deal is strange. She's this outgoing confident woman who treks around the world investigating seemingly dangerous news stories. But she can never be serious. Always cracking jokes, completely unable to be real about herself and her own past relationships seemed shallow and selfish, too and she seems completely unapologetic about it.
Which basically sums up my whole feeling about them as people, and a couple. Shallow and Selfish.
It just did not make me feel good, at all.
December 17, 2022
I think this actual story is a 3 stars for me, but I enjoyed Lori Prince’s narration so much (I mean, I alway do, but this one was great) that it gets its own star!
I’m not usually an instalove/fast connection kinda gal. Despite how much romance I read, I’m actually pretty cynical about love in real life, and I find these “instant connection” stories too unbelievable. HOWEVER, I was surprised to find myself enjoying the first chunk of the book with Allison and Dagny’s one night stand/evening together. And I did enjoy their interactions for the most part afterwards. There were a couple of things that felt… dramatized and annoying to me (Dagny constantly calling herself an orphan was… idk, a little odd? Like yeah it was a huge thing abt her life and she clearly became rlly isolated with Steve after they died, but she brought it up in odd ways throughout). Overall, this was a fun listen, that I ended up enjoying more than I thought I would, largely due to Lori Prince’s performance.
I’m not usually an instalove/fast connection kinda gal. Despite how much romance I read, I’m actually pretty cynical about love in real life, and I find these “instant connection” stories too unbelievable. HOWEVER, I was surprised to find myself enjoying the first chunk of the book with Allison and Dagny’s one night stand/evening together. And I did enjoy their interactions for the most part afterwards. There were a couple of things that felt… dramatized and annoying to me (Dagny constantly calling herself an orphan was… idk, a little odd? Like yeah it was a huge thing abt her life and she clearly became rlly isolated with Steve after they died, but she brought it up in odd ways throughout). Overall, this was a fun listen, that I ended up enjoying more than I thought I would, largely due to Lori Prince’s performance.
December 7, 2020
I was truly wowed by this story. Dagney and Allison just connected and their moments together were fire!
April 29, 2022
No, just didn't work for me. Felt contrived and not a believable scenario. Next please.
December 3, 2020
A chance meeting between Dagny and Allison at the Winter Wonderland in London starts wild ride for them both. Allison is immediately drawn to Dagny and they have an easy banter together. Dagny has never been this attracted to a woman. They spent an amazing night together and that starts their drama filled relationship. Allison gets the opportunity of a life time at her job and it has her traveling at a moments notice. Dagny's ex won't let go for an unknown reason. Will these two ever catch a break. I read this as short story last year and I love this expanded book. Full of mystery and romance.
December 19, 2020
This was a really cute read about being in the right place at the right time. The majority of this book took place on Christmas Eve after Dagny was dumped by her longtime boyfriend in London. Shortly after her world was rocked, she met Allison. The two immediately connected about spent the rest of the evening getting to know one another. The dialogue was fun and witty and the romance was sweet. All in all this was a really enjoyable read!
December 3, 2020
Just one moment in time, a word, a touch -kismet and life is never the same.
Dagny thought her life was perfect. A lifetime dream vacation goes completely wrong. Dumped and alone in Winter Park in London on Christmas Eve she bumps into Allison who was waiting for friends. What begins that night leads to a quirky but intimate moment in time for two people who clearly never knew love could be so good. They have one very romantic walk with easy talk, flirty banter and one hot night together. Then a planned meeting for New Years Eve in New York fails because Allison get the job offer of a lifetime. What follows is lots of texting, phone calls and continental flying to see each other. Dagny must choose the life she wants and see the relationship that left her dumped in London for how toxic it was. It will take more faith in herself than she sees. Allison will need to trust she is worth being loved for her passion enough to open up. This beautiful story was a novella when I first read of these characters. They have such a fun, easy and magical connection that I am so glad to have more of their journey. It will take some really great miracles to bring these two together. They have worlds that do not meet. They have a hot connection and that Kismet joy continues throughout the story. Add in JJ Cavendish and her media empire workings to get this tail full of intrigue, mystery and some steamy dialogue. The characters are clearly feeling a deeper connection with each other but the growth each do is so great too. I enjoyed the banter they had so flirty. Wondering if they would ever find a way to be in the same country kept me turning the pages. As always, T.B. Markinson gave such descriptive pictures of London and New York you felt you were there with them. This is a great read and I hope we see more of The Miricle Girl and Allison & Dagny.
Dagny thought her life was perfect. A lifetime dream vacation goes completely wrong. Dumped and alone in Winter Park in London on Christmas Eve she bumps into Allison who was waiting for friends. What begins that night leads to a quirky but intimate moment in time for two people who clearly never knew love could be so good. They have one very romantic walk with easy talk, flirty banter and one hot night together. Then a planned meeting for New Years Eve in New York fails because Allison get the job offer of a lifetime. What follows is lots of texting, phone calls and continental flying to see each other. Dagny must choose the life she wants and see the relationship that left her dumped in London for how toxic it was. It will take more faith in herself than she sees. Allison will need to trust she is worth being loved for her passion enough to open up. This beautiful story was a novella when I first read of these characters. They have such a fun, easy and magical connection that I am so glad to have more of their journey. It will take some really great miracles to bring these two together. They have worlds that do not meet. They have a hot connection and that Kismet joy continues throughout the story. Add in JJ Cavendish and her media empire workings to get this tail full of intrigue, mystery and some steamy dialogue. The characters are clearly feeling a deeper connection with each other but the growth each do is so great too. I enjoyed the banter they had so flirty. Wondering if they would ever find a way to be in the same country kept me turning the pages. As always, T.B. Markinson gave such descriptive pictures of London and New York you felt you were there with them. This is a great read and I hope we see more of The Miricle Girl and Allison & Dagny.
June 22, 2022
So Sweet!
It’s Christmas Eve, and Dagny is expecting her boyfriend to propose as they are on holiday in England, but when he dumps her, Dagny is left all alone. She meets Allison and that night, they just have an instant connection, and they end up spending the evening together even though Dagny expects it to go nowhere, however Allison just seems to be perfect for her, it’s just bad timing!
Loved how magical and romantic this story was, despite the shock at the start but that exact moment drew me in and had me invested. Dagny was facing something that was completely unknown, everything about meeting Allison was unpredictable and yet at the same time, it was completely amazing knowing somehow fate was just at play. The fact Dagny was going to be alone and Allison needed a distraction seemed completely coincidental until they got to know one another, and when they did, sparks just flew.
I loved there chemistry and connection, it was very special and both Dagny and Allison just wormed there way into your heart and you could connect with both on them on a very intimate level. There was so much drama surrounding their budding relationship, and despite barely knowing one another they were just there for each other and willing to take a chance.
Even though this is a story based on the holidays, reading it any time of the year just puts you in that moment and you feel like you could be there with them. Everything was so picturesque and that holiday spirit was present at every magical moment. I really enjoyed the story and can’t recommend it enough. Once again, T. B. Markinson has delivered a perfect romance, with a hint of comedy and humour. It was amazing!
It’s Christmas Eve, and Dagny is expecting her boyfriend to propose as they are on holiday in England, but when he dumps her, Dagny is left all alone. She meets Allison and that night, they just have an instant connection, and they end up spending the evening together even though Dagny expects it to go nowhere, however Allison just seems to be perfect for her, it’s just bad timing!
Loved how magical and romantic this story was, despite the shock at the start but that exact moment drew me in and had me invested. Dagny was facing something that was completely unknown, everything about meeting Allison was unpredictable and yet at the same time, it was completely amazing knowing somehow fate was just at play. The fact Dagny was going to be alone and Allison needed a distraction seemed completely coincidental until they got to know one another, and when they did, sparks just flew.
I loved there chemistry and connection, it was very special and both Dagny and Allison just wormed there way into your heart and you could connect with both on them on a very intimate level. There was so much drama surrounding their budding relationship, and despite barely knowing one another they were just there for each other and willing to take a chance.
Even though this is a story based on the holidays, reading it any time of the year just puts you in that moment and you feel like you could be there with them. Everything was so picturesque and that holiday spirit was present at every magical moment. I really enjoyed the story and can’t recommend it enough. Once again, T. B. Markinson has delivered a perfect romance, with a hint of comedy and humour. It was amazing!
December 3, 2020
I honestly don’t know how TB Markinson does it every time. I loved all her last books and it wasn’t different this time. After The Setup this was another one with Americans in England and you get to see all her personal experiences with it. It’s just fantastic.
In this story we meet Dagny that travels with her longtime boyfriend from New York to London. Being there she expects that he finally asks her the question of all question but in the end nothing happens like she thought it would. She ends up all alone on Christmas Eve. It was the first time my heart went out to her and I had tears in my eyes. While being in this very dark place she meets Allison, another American that lives in London. They have the time of their life together and we get to experience the whole fun with them together. This book really had everything I love in a great book. I had to cry, laugh and there also happened some unexpected things that were totally exciting and made you turn the pages wanting to know what happens next. Not to forget it was hot. ☺️ I won’t say more just that you need to read this book. For me another big hit by this gifted author. ❤️
In this story we meet Dagny that travels with her longtime boyfriend from New York to London. Being there she expects that he finally asks her the question of all question but in the end nothing happens like she thought it would. She ends up all alone on Christmas Eve. It was the first time my heart went out to her and I had tears in my eyes. While being in this very dark place she meets Allison, another American that lives in London. They have the time of their life together and we get to experience the whole fun with them together. This book really had everything I love in a great book. I had to cry, laugh and there also happened some unexpected things that were totally exciting and made you turn the pages wanting to know what happens next. Not to forget it was hot. ☺️ I won’t say more just that you need to read this book. For me another big hit by this gifted author. ❤️
October 21, 2021
I liked T.B. Markinson's short story, The Setup, when I read it a few months ago and this had a similar vibe with two people meeting and having an adventure through London together. I think Markinson does an excellent job of establishing a good meet-cute and then slowly developing the characters relationship in a way that makes it feel organic and natural. For me, this was a winning aspect of Kismet.
Dagny and Allison meet in London, hook up and then basically embark a long distance relationship between London and New York. I liked the way this was portrayed in the book and thought generally that the relationship between the pair was developed well.
There were aspects that perplexed me in the novel though; mainly Dagny's constant referral to herself as an orphan. The repetition was grating and it also felt as though this was a missed opportunity, as we were never told what really happened so there was no depth to this supposedly major aspect to her as a character. Additionally, there were a few loose ends by the end of the book that I found frustrating when I finished.
Regardless, I did enjoy reading this novel via audiobook. I think Lori Prince did a great job at narration, and I'm definitely intrigued now to read JJ's story in The Miracle Girl.
Many thanks to Lori Prince for gifting me a copy of the audiobook.
Dagny and Allison meet in London, hook up and then basically embark a long distance relationship between London and New York. I liked the way this was portrayed in the book and thought generally that the relationship between the pair was developed well.
There were aspects that perplexed me in the novel though; mainly Dagny's constant referral to herself as an orphan. The repetition was grating and it also felt as though this was a missed opportunity, as we were never told what really happened so there was no depth to this supposedly major aspect to her as a character. Additionally, there were a few loose ends by the end of the book that I found frustrating when I finished.
Regardless, I did enjoy reading this novel via audiobook. I think Lori Prince did a great job at narration, and I'm definitely intrigued now to read JJ's story in The Miracle Girl.
Many thanks to Lori Prince for gifting me a copy of the audiobook.
June 5, 2021
This one started off so strong, but the further I got into it, the more I just lost interest.
At first I liked both characters. Their meet cute was good. They definitely had chemistry and I was rooting for them. But the more I got to know Dagny the more I just couldn't get behind her. She drove me bananas. She was just such a pitiful-woe-is-me character. She brings up the fact that she's an "orphan" quite a bit. While technically this is true, her parents are dead, she was not orphaned as a child. She was an adult when her parents died. As someone who has actually lost a parent as an adult, I'll be the first to say this changes you as a person. But it seemed here it was just used to make everyone feel sorry for Dagny. I also thought it took her way to long to stand on her own two feet. This isn't a new adult romance, Dagny is in her early thirties, I believe. Not only was she fine letting her boyfriend take care of literally everything for her when they were together (which, sure he's wealthy and their lifestyle pretty much did dictate that he take care of everything then) but when they break up, she's still allowing him to take care of her. As soon as they break up, she's already thinking he has someone else, but she still uses his money, stays in their apartment with him and just generally allows him to provide for her. I wish she would have been a stronger character. I get that she wanted to live in New York, but I would have rather seen her move somewhere cheaper and learn how to depend on herself.
The New York and London thing also drove me bananas. I get it. They are great cities. But it was like neither of these women would consider life anywhere else. it was just odd to have both cities mentioned so often, and in the way that they were (as in they were just overly praised. Yes, the fact that they lived in different locations is part of the story, but I thought the "love letters" to both cities just read weird)
I did like Allison. My only issue with her was her storyline. She's a reporter and she's working on a big story (because of course she is). I thought the secrecy was a little over the top, but I could deal with that. What bothered me was that Allison's career plays such a big part of the book, and we're told that she is interviewing people and working on this career-making, top secret, dangerous story, only to never find out what her assignment/story was about.
While they started off, as I mentioned with good chemistry, I found myself not caring so much about that the further we got into their stories because I just didn't see that Allison would fall so hard for Dagny. I just didn't think Dagny brought much to the relationship, other than really good sex. I didn't see them as a couple with any real staying power.
The book felt much longer than it was. It seemed to drag on. I don't know if it was because the author focused on so much in the way of Allison's career, Dagny's break-up, or what, but I ended up bored before I was halfway through the book. This was a hard one for me to finish. I felt like a lot of the content was put in just to make the book longer and wasn't at all necessary to the story.
At first I liked both characters. Their meet cute was good. They definitely had chemistry and I was rooting for them. But the more I got to know Dagny the more I just couldn't get behind her. She drove me bananas. She was just such a pitiful-woe-is-me character. She brings up the fact that she's an "orphan" quite a bit. While technically this is true, her parents are dead, she was not orphaned as a child. She was an adult when her parents died. As someone who has actually lost a parent as an adult, I'll be the first to say this changes you as a person. But it seemed here it was just used to make everyone feel sorry for Dagny. I also thought it took her way to long to stand on her own two feet. This isn't a new adult romance, Dagny is in her early thirties, I believe. Not only was she fine letting her boyfriend take care of literally everything for her when they were together (which, sure he's wealthy and their lifestyle pretty much did dictate that he take care of everything then) but when they break up, she's still allowing him to take care of her. As soon as they break up, she's already thinking he has someone else, but she still uses his money, stays in their apartment with him and just generally allows him to provide for her. I wish she would have been a stronger character. I get that she wanted to live in New York, but I would have rather seen her move somewhere cheaper and learn how to depend on herself.
The New York and London thing also drove me bananas. I get it. They are great cities. But it was like neither of these women would consider life anywhere else. it was just odd to have both cities mentioned so often, and in the way that they were (as in they were just overly praised. Yes, the fact that they lived in different locations is part of the story, but I thought the "love letters" to both cities just read weird)
I did like Allison. My only issue with her was her storyline. She's a reporter and she's working on a big story (because of course she is). I thought the secrecy was a little over the top, but I could deal with that. What bothered me was that Allison's career plays such a big part of the book, and we're told that she is interviewing people and working on this career-making, top secret, dangerous story, only to never find out what her assignment/story was about.
While they started off, as I mentioned with good chemistry, I found myself not caring so much about that the further we got into their stories because I just didn't see that Allison would fall so hard for Dagny. I just didn't think Dagny brought much to the relationship, other than really good sex. I didn't see them as a couple with any real staying power.
The book felt much longer than it was. It seemed to drag on. I don't know if it was because the author focused on so much in the way of Allison's career, Dagny's break-up, or what, but I ended up bored before I was halfway through the book. This was a hard one for me to finish. I felt like a lot of the content was put in just to make the book longer and wasn't at all necessary to the story.
January 2, 2021
I’m a big fan of TB Markinson, but this was a not one of her best. I did read this when it came out as a short story and I enjoyed it, but as a novella there just wasn’t enough there,there.
My biggest gripe is Alison’s secret possibly dangerous assignment. If it was secret and dangerous, shouldn’t it have been explained/explored further? I kept waiting for it and it never happened. And maybe I missed it, but did we ever find out what the big story was, or why it was so dangerous to investigate it?
My biggest gripe is Alison’s secret possibly dangerous assignment. If it was secret and dangerous, shouldn’t it have been explained/explored further? I kept waiting for it and it never happened. And maybe I missed it, but did we ever find out what the big story was, or why it was so dangerous to investigate it?
December 31, 2020
I haven't read a ton of Markinson's early romances, but over the last couple of years I have read a number of them and I am rarely disappointed if ever. From her blurb this was originally a short story. Though I enjoyed this one, there was a point in the romance where it sort of got a little dull. So it starts out really strong and ends strong. Because of that I can only give it 3.5 Stars. If I had to rate the beginning and the end I would like give it 4.
March 20, 2021
4.5 stars
Kept me distracted. Aside from my music, it had my full attention. Loved both main characters, and it holds a lot of truths.
The missing .5 is due to my own curiosity about the assignments and side characters.
Worth reading. HEA
Kept me distracted. Aside from my music, it had my full attention. Loved both main characters, and it holds a lot of truths.
The missing .5 is due to my own curiosity about the assignments and side characters.
Worth reading. HEA
December 4, 2020
This was a cute romance. Two women meet on Christmas Eve in London right after Dagny’s boyfriend broke up with her minutes earlier. Allison takes her around the Christmas booths and cheers her up. This is the start to a long-distance romance since Allison lives in London and Dagny in New York. This book is really about them getting to know each other, and making life-changing decisions, well, at least for Dagny. Allison is working on some super-secret investigation for JJ of “The Miracle Girl” (which I now need to reread), but wall we know about it is that it requires special measures. I think it’s just there to complicate Allison’s life. There is lots of witty banter, a few sexy scenes, and intriguing and satisfying developments. This was a pleasant way to while away some holiday hours.
March 6, 2021
Kismet
Kismet by T.B. Markinson is a heartfelt story. She creates masterfully flawed characters with resolve. Her ability to have her characters shine and grow is amazing. Showing their ability to grow and live through their challenges is inspiring. I loved this story about Alison and Dagny. From the first moment they met, its instant fireworks. I look forward to more of her books, and have enjoyed all that I have read.
Kismet by T.B. Markinson is a heartfelt story. She creates masterfully flawed characters with resolve. Her ability to have her characters shine and grow is amazing. Showing their ability to grow and live through their challenges is inspiring. I loved this story about Alison and Dagny. From the first moment they met, its instant fireworks. I look forward to more of her books, and have enjoyed all that I have read.
June 25, 2024
This is a reread for me. I didn't leave a review the first read. Dagny thinking after 12 yrs being together that her boyfriend Steve is going to pop the question. They're in London, it's Christmas Eve and he breaks up with her. She decides to continue walking and being a tourist, when she meets Allison. And their lives change. This is a beautiful love story. 5 stars!
December 19, 2020
This book was a complete surprise—and I mean that in the best possible way! When I first cracked this book open, I expected a sweet holiday romance. What unfolded, however, was so much more! Markinson has created something that is absolutely smashing. Kismet is full of romance, drama, suspense and mystery, making it one entertaining read.
Dagny is all set to say “yes” to a marriage proposal from her long time boyfriend, but what she gets instead is dumped, and on Christmas Eve in London no less. She is at rock bottom and trying to hold herself together at Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park when Allison, a charming and inquisitive American journalist takes notice of her and offers to buy her a drink. The shocking end of Dagny’s relationship turns out to be a blessing in disguise, and a shared mulled wine turns into something that neither Dagny nor Allison could have predicted.
Dagny is a great character. Her character arc is solidly constructed and well-written. She is flawed and vulnerable, but very likable. Readers empathize with her. Markinson is a master at this; she knows how to create empathetic characters that readers can connect and relate. Dagny is no different in this regard. Readers become very invested in her happiness and relationship success. However, what readers find the most appealing is her growth. She enters the story a meek, unconfident and powerless woman. What emerges in the closing chapters is an independent, self-assured and proud woman. This transformation is both captivating and believable. Furthermore, it demonstrates solid character development and good storytelling.
Allison is also a wonderful character. She is as intriguing as her storyline, making the plot rich and engaging. Her character is a bit mysterious, but very likable. Her charm sparks something in Dagny that draws her in and encourages an undeniable chemistry. Their chemistry ultimately fuels a romance that is every bit compelling as it is complex.
Markinson kept me engrossed throughout this story, and that made for some late night reading. It was well worth it though. This is a fantastic story. It is well plotted, paced and told. I would absolutely recommend this book. It is one enjoyable and absorbing read—well-worth the time and money.
Strengths…
Entertaining
Engaging
Compelling
Great characters
Strong chemistry
Sweet romance
Dagny is all set to say “yes” to a marriage proposal from her long time boyfriend, but what she gets instead is dumped, and on Christmas Eve in London no less. She is at rock bottom and trying to hold herself together at Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park when Allison, a charming and inquisitive American journalist takes notice of her and offers to buy her a drink. The shocking end of Dagny’s relationship turns out to be a blessing in disguise, and a shared mulled wine turns into something that neither Dagny nor Allison could have predicted.
Dagny is a great character. Her character arc is solidly constructed and well-written. She is flawed and vulnerable, but very likable. Readers empathize with her. Markinson is a master at this; she knows how to create empathetic characters that readers can connect and relate. Dagny is no different in this regard. Readers become very invested in her happiness and relationship success. However, what readers find the most appealing is her growth. She enters the story a meek, unconfident and powerless woman. What emerges in the closing chapters is an independent, self-assured and proud woman. This transformation is both captivating and believable. Furthermore, it demonstrates solid character development and good storytelling.
Allison is also a wonderful character. She is as intriguing as her storyline, making the plot rich and engaging. Her character is a bit mysterious, but very likable. Her charm sparks something in Dagny that draws her in and encourages an undeniable chemistry. Their chemistry ultimately fuels a romance that is every bit compelling as it is complex.
Markinson kept me engrossed throughout this story, and that made for some late night reading. It was well worth it though. This is a fantastic story. It is well plotted, paced and told. I would absolutely recommend this book. It is one enjoyable and absorbing read—well-worth the time and money.
Strengths…
Entertaining
Engaging
Compelling
Great characters
Strong chemistry
Sweet romance
December 5, 2020
Starting from the title, I loved this story very much. TB never ceases to amaze me; she does it every time with every new story. This, of course, wasn’t the exception.
One thing I like about TB books is that they are always dynamic, interesting and engaging. Another thing I enjoy so much is the characters; even when their stories are sometimes so different from ours, they are always relatable.
Dagny makes the trip of her dreams to London with her boyfriend of 12 years, thinking he’ll finally propose…only to find herself being dumped on Christmas Eve. Allison finally gets the assignment she has been looking for, the breakthrough to make her career; with one condition, full commitment to the task. They both meet on Christmas Eve, and despite the terrible timing, their chemistry is nothing to ignore; they have found in each other in hours, what haven’t found with others in years. Will they be able to find out if fate is right or will they stay apart?
I simply loved the story from the beginning to the end, as well as the characters. The story is very well written, there is romance, a bit of drama, sexy times, fun, and is also very intriguing; there is a bit of a mystery to solve, and we get to see another beloved character. I loved to see JJ Cavendish, even if briefly. I hope TB expands on the journalistic story, I think there is a big opportunity to have another deep story from this.
The character development is wonderful to witness, mostly from Dagny. I enjoyed very much being able to see her grow so much. Allison didn’t stay behind in her own growth. It is as wonderful to see their personal development as their combined one.
The pace is impeccable, and the progress of the story is perfectly structured. The ending couldn’t be better.
It is a very beautiful romance, the characters are absolutely lovable, and the book is completely captivating. This is undoubtedly a page-turner from beginning to end.
This book is highly recommended.
ARC copy of this book given to me by the Author and I'm voluntarily leaving my review.
One thing I like about TB books is that they are always dynamic, interesting and engaging. Another thing I enjoy so much is the characters; even when their stories are sometimes so different from ours, they are always relatable.
Dagny makes the trip of her dreams to London with her boyfriend of 12 years, thinking he’ll finally propose…only to find herself being dumped on Christmas Eve. Allison finally gets the assignment she has been looking for, the breakthrough to make her career; with one condition, full commitment to the task. They both meet on Christmas Eve, and despite the terrible timing, their chemistry is nothing to ignore; they have found in each other in hours, what haven’t found with others in years. Will they be able to find out if fate is right or will they stay apart?
I simply loved the story from the beginning to the end, as well as the characters. The story is very well written, there is romance, a bit of drama, sexy times, fun, and is also very intriguing; there is a bit of a mystery to solve, and we get to see another beloved character. I loved to see JJ Cavendish, even if briefly. I hope TB expands on the journalistic story, I think there is a big opportunity to have another deep story from this.
The character development is wonderful to witness, mostly from Dagny. I enjoyed very much being able to see her grow so much. Allison didn’t stay behind in her own growth. It is as wonderful to see their personal development as their combined one.
The pace is impeccable, and the progress of the story is perfectly structured. The ending couldn’t be better.
It is a very beautiful romance, the characters are absolutely lovable, and the book is completely captivating. This is undoubtedly a page-turner from beginning to end.
This book is highly recommended.
ARC copy of this book given to me by the Author and I'm voluntarily leaving my review.
February 2, 2022
A strong starter with an underwhelming ending.
I will echo what other reviewers have said about Dagny. She doesn't have that much oomph about her at the start, not until the ending in fact. She's the embodiment of 'you don't know how strong you are until being strong is the only option you have'. T.B. Markinson did a very good job of making me loathe Steve and root for Allison and Dagny, and the whole thing was very well-written, but I found the ending underwhelming. We never find out what Allison's assignment is, even though there's a tremendous build-up. I found myself waiting for something that never arrived.
Other than that, I did enjoy it! Allison was a very believable character, and the subtle nod to adoption made me smile, acknowledging it without making it a big deal. And it also made me look at London in a new light - I live so close to it that I'm probably inured to its charms, so T.B. has made me want to go back there. Not sure I'll ever be the type of person to ping-pong between London and NYC the way that Allison and Dagny do, but a girl can dream...
I will echo what other reviewers have said about Dagny. She doesn't have that much oomph about her at the start, not until the ending in fact. She's the embodiment of 'you don't know how strong you are until being strong is the only option you have'. T.B. Markinson did a very good job of making me loathe Steve and root for Allison and Dagny, and the whole thing was very well-written, but I found the ending underwhelming. We never find out what Allison's assignment is, even though there's a tremendous build-up. I found myself waiting for something that never arrived.
Other than that, I did enjoy it! Allison was a very believable character, and the subtle nod to adoption made me smile, acknowledging it without making it a big deal. And it also made me look at London in a new light - I live so close to it that I'm probably inured to its charms, so T.B. has made me want to go back there. Not sure I'll ever be the type of person to ping-pong between London and NYC the way that Allison and Dagny do, but a girl can dream...
December 25, 2022
I read half and then just gave up on it. The beginning was okay, but I got bored with the book pretty quickly. I usually like when the perspective switches from one MC's POV to the other's, but here it just wasn't well executed IMO. You couldn't tell both voices apart at all, so I found I had to go back to see whose chapter this was again and again. It got especially confusing in the sex scene, where I had no idea who was doing what. Also, lots of talking during sex, and not the dirty kind, either. If that had been me in that bed (or rug), I'd been super annoyed. To be honest, I'm not a big fan of the writing. I get the feeling Markinson is churning out book after book but it's all a bit superficial. I'm not feeling it.
Also, the premise. Woman gets left by her longtime boyfriend, meets stranger 5 minutes later and proceeds to have a great night. Sure, why not? That's classic rebound behavior and that's perfectly fine. Except here, they quickly go to "it's love", and nope, I'm not buying it.
Also, the premise. Woman gets left by her longtime boyfriend, meets stranger 5 minutes later and proceeds to have a great night. Sure, why not? That's classic rebound behavior and that's perfectly fine. Except here, they quickly go to "it's love", and nope, I'm not buying it.
December 15, 2020
This book was strange. Allison and Dagny were cute af and the definition of u-haul lesbians, and their romance itself was great and practically zero angst (though I'm not sure if that's a plus or not). I haven't seen romance protagonists communicate their feelings this well in years and I'm not sure if I ever will again. If not for the two of them, this would be one or two stars.
I also really liked Markinson's cozy depictions of London, her experience (or research) really shines here.
However... almost all of the supporting characters were one dimensional and frequently did things that ran contrary to their earlier motivations, which seemed to be solely for producing conflict (which resolved less than a chapter later).
The plot involving Allison's assignment (and Dagny's later side project) was entirely forgettable.
Finally, in what universe is there a quant who works for a NYC finance firm and is worried about not being able to pay her rent?
Still cute though.
I also really liked Markinson's cozy depictions of London, her experience (or research) really shines here.
However... almost all of the supporting characters were one dimensional and frequently did things that ran contrary to their earlier motivations, which seemed to be solely for producing conflict (which resolved less than a chapter later).
The plot involving Allison's assignment (and Dagny's later side project) was entirely forgettable.
Finally, in what universe is there a quant who works for a NYC finance firm and is worried about not being able to pay her rent?
Still cute though.
January 13, 2021
Free at last!
My apologies to my fellow MLK followers. Dagny is in a rut of the major kind. Christmas Eve after flying over from New York city she finds out that her lover of twelve years needs a break in their relationship. Allison is a reporter in between jobs and is standing behind Dagny five minutes after her former lover leaves her. Dagny's former lover Steve is an ex quarterback with the big head and ego to go with him. With Allison's help Dagny finally finds out how controlling Steve has been, even following her on her iPhone. That is not the way people act when they separate. Do the two ladies manage to break away and live together? T.B. has a remarkable way of writing that keeps the reader wanting to stay with a story. Wanting to know how things progress toward a more stable condition. Brava! Enjoy!
My apologies to my fellow MLK followers. Dagny is in a rut of the major kind. Christmas Eve after flying over from New York city she finds out that her lover of twelve years needs a break in their relationship. Allison is a reporter in between jobs and is standing behind Dagny five minutes after her former lover leaves her. Dagny's former lover Steve is an ex quarterback with the big head and ego to go with him. With Allison's help Dagny finally finds out how controlling Steve has been, even following her on her iPhone. That is not the way people act when they separate. Do the two ladies manage to break away and live together? T.B. has a remarkable way of writing that keeps the reader wanting to stay with a story. Wanting to know how things progress toward a more stable condition. Brava! Enjoy!
November 18, 2021
I was given an Audible code for this audio book and am grateful that I can share this review. I am a serious fan of T.B.Markinson's work. Kismet was an exceptional read. It stirred feelings that surprised me. This such a positive and engaging set of characters and their journey navigating their relationship is so well written. I am not always on board for warm and fuzzy but that is my best and in my opinion a great way to describe this book.. I am not always on board for warm and fuzzy but that is my best and in my opinion a great way to describe this book. I also know that the statement can be misunderstood. The clearest I can be is to say it is like her other books an awesome read and Lori Prince does an outstanding job with the narration. It is a book I will listen to again.
August 19, 2023
Being dumped and getting a promotion bring two woman together on Christmas Eve, from two very worlds and circumstances, and yet, even at that point, they hit it off. Life isn't without its difficulties and complications, and there is more going on that it seems.
A story of growth and acceptance, of realising what it is that you want, and how it all fits together, this is an enjoyable tale of two woman falling for each other, even with the circumstances around it all. There is a lot of time spent on that first night, given its importance to them, and time moves a bit faster after that. While one mystery is resolved, another is left in secrecy, but it still wraps up well with little angst and a HEA.
A story of growth and acceptance, of realising what it is that you want, and how it all fits together, this is an enjoyable tale of two woman falling for each other, even with the circumstances around it all. There is a lot of time spent on that first night, given its importance to them, and time moves a bit faster after that. While one mystery is resolved, another is left in secrecy, but it still wraps up well with little angst and a HEA.
December 16, 2021
Dagny is dumped on Christmas Eve in London by her boyfriend, and when all the world seems against her, she meets Allison at the festival. They're drawn to one another, but they live on different continents. Try as they might to make it work, the world keeps pushing in between them.
This is a fantastic contemporary lesbian romance, and a nice read for this time of year with the holidays. I loved all the details about London and discovering it along with Dagny. Her curiosity is matched by Allison's and the passion sparks. There are a lot of great conversations between them and fiery scenes. A few things weren't answered, but I did love the twists and turns.
This is a fantastic contemporary lesbian romance, and a nice read for this time of year with the holidays. I loved all the details about London and discovering it along with Dagny. Her curiosity is matched by Allison's and the passion sparks. There are a lot of great conversations between them and fiery scenes. A few things weren't answered, but I did love the twists and turns.
April 23, 2022
One of the best books I've read this year!! Loved it!
The story opens with a hope of a promise that never comes to truism. When Dagny goes to London for Christmas with her boyfriend expecting a proposal she ends up getting something totally unexpected! She finds what she never knew she was missing in her life. Allison is everything from friendly to pure love.
This is the second book I have read from
T.B. Markinson and I have to say I'm still a fan of hers because her books are the type of stories that wheel you in and keeps you interested all til the end and keeps you wanting more! Ideally loved this book it was phenomenal.
The story opens with a hope of a promise that never comes to truism. When Dagny goes to London for Christmas with her boyfriend expecting a proposal she ends up getting something totally unexpected! She finds what she never knew she was missing in her life. Allison is everything from friendly to pure love.
This is the second book I have read from
T.B. Markinson and I have to say I'm still a fan of hers because her books are the type of stories that wheel you in and keeps you interested all til the end and keeps you wanting more! Ideally loved this book it was phenomenal.
August 10, 2022
I enjoyed the start although the chapter about point of view had me a bit off balance with which characters view I was reading and I did find myself, in some conversations not sure who was actually speaking.
The first interaction seemed to last for ages, tho in time in the book only one evening. Then suddenly there is a bit in the middle where not only are the mains not on the same page they are not in direct communication?
This is an odd book. All the ends are tied up except for one. This is I think sort of a side bar to a series which I've not read. Not having read it didn't impact this but I was aware there was more to the stories of some of the characters in this.
The first interaction seemed to last for ages, tho in time in the book only one evening. Then suddenly there is a bit in the middle where not only are the mains not on the same page they are not in direct communication?
This is an odd book. All the ends are tied up except for one. This is I think sort of a side bar to a series which I've not read. Not having read it didn't impact this but I was aware there was more to the stories of some of the characters in this.
December 3, 2020
TB is back with a mystery. For fans of The Miracle Girl, new protagonists, Dagny and Allison end up working for JJ Cavendish, journalist extraordinaire. Both women are American who meet in London under very unusual circumstances. There's an underlying secret thread throughout the book that is not solved. Hopefully, it's a great set-up for a new series, or at least a sequel. Both ladies are so intrigued by one another that even the "big pond" between the USA and England can't separate them for long. It's not only a heart-warming romance, but it's smokin' sexy as well!!!
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