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Vanessa Jared's Got a Man
LaQuette's debut sexy romantic comedy Vanessa Jared's Got a Man tells the story of a woman getting her groove back and getting a second chance at love.
Vanessa Jared, a 40-something divorcee, decided that the best way to pull herself out of their post-divorce slump was to form The Savvy, Sexy, Singles Club and start the "Do Me" portion of her and her friends' lives.
But on the two year anniversary, a sexy sheriff shows up on Vanessa's doorstep wanting her to help him keep his little sister from marrying her no-good ex. Vanessa is not down for this at all. She wants nothing to do with her ex...until she spots a photo of her ex's new fiancee wearing her grandmother's ring--which he clearly stole from her. So now it's on. Vanessa is ready to take this trifling (fill-in-the-blank) down. What she does not expect is to fall in love along the way.
Vanessa Jared, a 40-something divorcee, decided that the best way to pull herself out of their post-divorce slump was to form The Savvy, Sexy, Singles Club and start the "Do Me" portion of her and her friends' lives.
But on the two year anniversary, a sexy sheriff shows up on Vanessa's doorstep wanting her to help him keep his little sister from marrying her no-good ex. Vanessa is not down for this at all. She wants nothing to do with her ex...until she spots a photo of her ex's new fiancee wearing her grandmother's ring--which he clearly stole from her. So now it's on. Vanessa is ready to take this trifling (fill-in-the-blank) down. What she does not expect is to fall in love along the way.
272 pages, Paperback
First published September 20, 2022
81 people are currently reading
9832 people want to read
About the author
LaQuette
89 books579 followersLaQuette writes sexy, stylish, and sensational romance—the kind of sentimental-and-steamy stories that feel like Hallmark movies… if Hallmark suddenly ramped up the sexy and gave us the hawt love scenes we deserve. Expect big emotions, bold choices, and characters who strut through the pages like the book is their own personal runway.
A proud Brooklyn native, she crafts unapologetically bold, character-driven Black and interracial romances where Black women are joy-filled, desired, and absolutely treasured. These women know they belong on the page—and dare you to try telling them otherwise.
When this current Ph.D. student isn’t writing, reading, or studying, she’s probably trying on (or hunting down) her next must-have makeup find. And honestly? No one would be surprised if it’s yet another shade of red or pink lipstick. At this point, it’s basically a personality trait. Contact her at https://dot.cards/laquette.
A proud Brooklyn native, she crafts unapologetically bold, character-driven Black and interracial romances where Black women are joy-filled, desired, and absolutely treasured. These women know they belong on the page—and dare you to try telling them otherwise.
When this current Ph.D. student isn’t writing, reading, or studying, she’s probably trying on (or hunting down) her next must-have makeup find. And honestly? No one would be surprised if it’s yet another shade of red or pink lipstick. At this point, it’s basically a personality trait. Contact her at https://dot.cards/laquette.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 636 reviews
October 29, 2022
It’s time I admitted to being immensely attracted to books with cartoon covers. They’re just so cute and they tend to have the cutest romances. This one however wasn’t just cute and seeeexxxyyy, but it had some hard topics that illustrated the characters’ growth.
I don’t get to read a romance with a woman MC who is 40+, so that alone is +1 star. She is still healing from an emotionally abusive relationship, and the main way she is doing this is by unapologetically loving herself. I love that the author emphasizes how detrimental emotional abuse is just as physical abuse. It was also really good that she was taking steps to ensure that no one ever treats her like that again, even if that man is the hot sheriff himself.
Speaking of the sheriff, he has his own struggles as well. He feels the need to manage people due to his blaming himself for what happened to his parents. This might be sexy and all but after what Vanessa has been through, she’ll be damned if she enters a relationship where someone tells her what to do. How do they work this out?
It was great that they each had their own support systems of friends. I enjoyed the balance of this story.
I don’t get to read a romance with a woman MC who is 40+, so that alone is +1 star. She is still healing from an emotionally abusive relationship, and the main way she is doing this is by unapologetically loving herself. I love that the author emphasizes how detrimental emotional abuse is just as physical abuse. It was also really good that she was taking steps to ensure that no one ever treats her like that again, even if that man is the hot sheriff himself.
Speaking of the sheriff, he has his own struggles as well. He feels the need to manage people due to his blaming himself for what happened to his parents. This might be sexy and all but after what Vanessa has been through, she’ll be damned if she enters a relationship where someone tells her what to do. How do they work this out?
It was great that they each had their own support systems of friends. I enjoyed the balance of this story.
September 30, 2022
this book lost me when it tried to convince me that a cop was good at sex
Want to read
January 20, 2022this cover is the epitome of bisexual panic
December 5, 2022
absolutely PERFECT!!! i need more books by this author immediately, i can say sometimes the dialogue was a bit cringe but other than that i thought this book was good. it has good friendships, i really want books about cree and janae to be honest, especially janae. this book actually has a plotline and the romance was done so well.
September 5, 2022
Thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press for an egalley in exchange for an honest review
This was my first read by author LaQuette and consider me an insta-fan. When our story begins, we meet female protagonist Vanessa Jared, who after twenty years of marriage is trying to make a life for herself. But maybe a divorce support group just isn't the answer? Luckily, she bumps into two women and together they create the Savvy, Sexy, Single club as they are all women in their 40's rebuilding themselves after divorce. The friendship between the three women was my first favorite element of this book. I just loved their banter! The second thing I loved was that this is about women in their 40's! A demographic that I entered this year so I am loving that!
Then there is our male protagonist, Sheriff Michael Park. Who also has two really awesome friends that are there for him too. Michael gave up his job as a Philadelphia detective to take care of his sister after the tragic deaths of both their parents. It is years later and his sister, Cindy has fallen in love with Karl. Michael is suspicious of Karl and when he finds out that Vanessa is Karl's ex-wife, he begs for her assistance. Also, Michael cannot deny that he is immediately attracted to the gorgeous African-American woman that stands before him. As for Vanessa? She is trying to push her lustful thoughts about the Korean-American sheriff and just plans to keep it strictly business. Because Karl has given Cindy a ring that is very important to Vanessa's family and she just wants it back.
So Vanessa journeys to the small town where Michael is the sheriff and although she only plans to stay one night, circumstances soon make her a guest in Michael's home. Cue the sexual tension to be ramped up! Let me tell you fellow readers, it's not cheesy and there are a lot of scenes where the two get to know each other quite a bit before falling into bed with one another. Lots of comedy and romance follow and I loved that too!
I just couldn't stop reading and I quickly found myself part of the Vanessa and Michael fan club and it's a hill I will remain on for a long time. With the epilogue, I have a feeling there will be a sequel starring Janae and Adam and I cannot wait!
Expected Publication Date 20/09/22
Goodreads Review Published 28/07/22
This was my first read by author LaQuette and consider me an insta-fan. When our story begins, we meet female protagonist Vanessa Jared, who after twenty years of marriage is trying to make a life for herself. But maybe a divorce support group just isn't the answer? Luckily, she bumps into two women and together they create the Savvy, Sexy, Single club as they are all women in their 40's rebuilding themselves after divorce. The friendship between the three women was my first favorite element of this book. I just loved their banter! The second thing I loved was that this is about women in their 40's! A demographic that I entered this year so I am loving that!
Then there is our male protagonist, Sheriff Michael Park. Who also has two really awesome friends that are there for him too. Michael gave up his job as a Philadelphia detective to take care of his sister after the tragic deaths of both their parents. It is years later and his sister, Cindy has fallen in love with Karl. Michael is suspicious of Karl and when he finds out that Vanessa is Karl's ex-wife, he begs for her assistance. Also, Michael cannot deny that he is immediately attracted to the gorgeous African-American woman that stands before him. As for Vanessa? She is trying to push her lustful thoughts about the Korean-American sheriff and just plans to keep it strictly business. Because Karl has given Cindy a ring that is very important to Vanessa's family and she just wants it back.
So Vanessa journeys to the small town where Michael is the sheriff and although she only plans to stay one night, circumstances soon make her a guest in Michael's home. Cue the sexual tension to be ramped up! Let me tell you fellow readers, it's not cheesy and there are a lot of scenes where the two get to know each other quite a bit before falling into bed with one another. Lots of comedy and romance follow and I loved that too!
I just couldn't stop reading and I quickly found myself part of the Vanessa and Michael fan club and it's a hill I will remain on for a long time. With the epilogue, I have a feeling there will be a sequel starring Janae and Adam and I cannot wait!
Expected Publication Date 20/09/22
Goodreads Review Published 28/07/22
May 14, 2022
Vanessa Jared's Got a Man is a cute and diverse romance, but unfortunately I never found myself very invested in it. Objectively, this is a well written novel, however, I don't think I am the right reader for it. Although the cover looks like current popular New Adult romance covers, the way this book is written, it's clearly stylized to appeal to an older audience. Continuing on that note, I didn't expect overcoming divorce to be a theme of this novel (from the synopsis I expected it as a plot point, but not a central theme). Because that isn't something I can relate to or really envision for myself, I didn't always feel super connected to the main character's struggles. Overall, I can recognize this book as a well developed one and can see it appealing to many readers, I am just not one of them.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press for the eARC!
Thank you to St. Martin's Press for the eARC!
July 8, 2022
I’m here for the cover.
July 7th: I was just checking on my status on NetGalley about an hour ago…and I just got the email that I was APPROVED!!!!
Review: Vanessa Jared is two years post divorce from her hor-rib-le ex husband and trying to get her life together when a sexy sheriff from another town, Michael Park, arrives at her door step asking for help because his baby sister is engaged to her ex. He devises a plan to get her to speak with his sister before it's too late...of course, the attraction is strong between them (I mean...look at that COVER) and they end up getting close.
I REALLY enjoyed this book and inhaled it in a day. I loved getting to know these characters and what Vanessa and Michael went through before finding each other. I enjoyed seeing Vanessa come into her own and face her past. It was very touching. I felt their connection pretty early on...And the steam? Yes, ma'am! The chemistry was strong between them. Michael using some Korean terms of endearment was the sweetest thing.
I really appreciated reading a romance book where the characters were a bit older (early 40's). It was a nice change of pace for me. I think even if you're used to reading about characters in their 20's in romance books...this was still easy to relate to when it comes to moving on from traumatic relationships. And of course, the usual romance tropes where two people fight their attraction for each other.
Another plus was the side characters...I enjoyed them all.
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for this digital ARC in exchange for a review.
July 7th: I was just checking on my status on NetGalley about an hour ago…and I just got the email that I was APPROVED!!!!
Review: Vanessa Jared is two years post divorce from her hor-rib-le ex husband and trying to get her life together when a sexy sheriff from another town, Michael Park, arrives at her door step asking for help because his baby sister is engaged to her ex. He devises a plan to get her to speak with his sister before it's too late...of course, the attraction is strong between them (I mean...look at that COVER) and they end up getting close.
I REALLY enjoyed this book and inhaled it in a day. I loved getting to know these characters and what Vanessa and Michael went through before finding each other. I enjoyed seeing Vanessa come into her own and face her past. It was very touching. I felt their connection pretty early on...And the steam? Yes, ma'am! The chemistry was strong between them. Michael using some Korean terms of endearment was the sweetest thing.
I really appreciated reading a romance book where the characters were a bit older (early 40's). It was a nice change of pace for me. I think even if you're used to reading about characters in their 20's in romance books...this was still easy to relate to when it comes to moving on from traumatic relationships. And of course, the usual romance tropes where two people fight their attraction for each other.
Another plus was the side characters...I enjoyed them all.
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for this digital ARC in exchange for a review.
Read
May 9, 2022This is another romance I picked because of the cover. It's so exhilarating to finally read some diversity in romance.
This book had tons of heart, I thought. Vanessa is a forty-something divorcee after twenty years of the insidious sort of verbal and emotional abuse that has shredded so very many women of my generation, and the ones above me. Nothing physical--and the culture condones it--but the effect is the same. LaQuette did what I thought an excellent job with the emotional fallout, including the directionlessness afterward.
But the book is not all gloom and doom--a man arrives on her doorstep, a sheriff of Korean descent, who is the sole guardian of a sister. He begs Vanessa to come speak to his sister as an intervention, as her pond scum rat of an ex is courting her--for her money, of course, but the twenty-something sister thinks it's True Love.
The result is the introduction to small town life, among Vanessa's terrific friend circle. The intervention, which I really wanted to see, takes a while to get there, and the result takes what I thought an interesting direction, into the toxic side of highly hierarchical cultural expectations, which some Korean friends have talked about.
A lot of issues, but it's not an issues book, it's a romance. Sometimes the read felt a little jagged as we whipsaw between hard issues and, um, other kinds of hard as the romance accelerates. But I enjoyed the book overall, and am so glad books like these are finally getting out there in traditional publishing romance land--indie romance writers have been writing them for ages.
Copy provided by NetGalley
This book had tons of heart, I thought. Vanessa is a forty-something divorcee after twenty years of the insidious sort of verbal and emotional abuse that has shredded so very many women of my generation, and the ones above me. Nothing physical--and the culture condones it--but the effect is the same. LaQuette did what I thought an excellent job with the emotional fallout, including the directionlessness afterward.
But the book is not all gloom and doom--a man arrives on her doorstep, a sheriff of Korean descent, who is the sole guardian of a sister. He begs Vanessa to come speak to his sister as an intervention, as her pond scum rat of an ex is courting her--for her money, of course, but the twenty-something sister thinks it's True Love.
The result is the introduction to small town life, among Vanessa's terrific friend circle. The intervention, which I really wanted to see, takes a while to get there, and the result takes what I thought an interesting direction, into the toxic side of highly hierarchical cultural expectations, which some Korean friends have talked about.
A lot of issues, but it's not an issues book, it's a romance. Sometimes the read felt a little jagged as we whipsaw between hard issues and, um, other kinds of hard as the romance accelerates. But I enjoyed the book overall, and am so glad books like these are finally getting out there in traditional publishing romance land--indie romance writers have been writing them for ages.
Copy provided by NetGalley
June 23, 2022
In the novel Vanessa Jared's Got a Man, Vanessa has taken 2 years to try to move on with her life after divorcing her abusive husband. He was never physically abusive to her, however he was mentally and emotionally abusive to her, so after 20 years of constantly being told what to do and being cheated on, she had enough. But when sexy sheriff Michael of Monroe Hills seeks her out regarding her ex-husband, she begrudgingly decides that helping Michael is the right thing to do.
I'll be honest with you readers.. I knew from approximately 5-10% into this book that it was not for me. When the author chooses this type of verbiage to describe a woman, I'm immediately turned away:
But, I kept reading because maybe the author meant it as in "thicc", not that she's incredibly overweight or something. Either way, I never really truly got into it. It was very mediocre. I was never invested in the story or the characters. Vanessa felt like one of those stereotypical rich women that look down their nose at anyone/anything beneath them. Despite her objections to being that type of woman, anyone who walks into a B&B and mentions "well it certainly isn't the Ritz" is definitely stuck-up.
The initial premise of the book was to expose Vanessa's no-good ex-husband, however it felt like it really took a back burner to Vanessa and Michael, yet SOMEHOW at the same time these characters never actually DO anything. They keep lusting after each other, but why? Because they are good looking? I found zero depth to the characters and had no idea why they were into each other besides the physical aspect. Then, when they finally do get around to exposing her ex... it's over after about 3 or 4 paragraphs! Vanessa laid out the facts and that was it. Everyone basically just moved on after that. I was just flabbergasted.
Overall, this one was not for me. 2/5 stars
A huge thanks to NetGalley and the Publishers for a free copy of this book for my honest review.
I'll be honest with you readers.. I knew from approximately 5-10% into this book that it was not for me. When the author chooses this type of verbiage to describe a woman, I'm immediately turned away:
"watching her in her fitted sweater dress that hugged her high-sitting, full bosom and rounded hips that led to the thickest set of thighs he'd ever seen on a woman."
But, I kept reading because maybe the author meant it as in "thicc", not that she's incredibly overweight or something. Either way, I never really truly got into it. It was very mediocre. I was never invested in the story or the characters. Vanessa felt like one of those stereotypical rich women that look down their nose at anyone/anything beneath them. Despite her objections to being that type of woman, anyone who walks into a B&B and mentions "well it certainly isn't the Ritz" is definitely stuck-up.
The initial premise of the book was to expose Vanessa's no-good ex-husband, however it felt like it really took a back burner to Vanessa and Michael, yet SOMEHOW at the same time these characters never actually DO anything. They keep lusting after each other, but why? Because they are good looking? I found zero depth to the characters and had no idea why they were into each other besides the physical aspect. Then, when they finally do get around to exposing her ex... it's over after about 3 or 4 paragraphs! Vanessa laid out the facts and that was it. Everyone basically just moved on after that. I was just flabbergasted.
Overall, this one was not for me. 2/5 stars
A huge thanks to NetGalley and the Publishers for a free copy of this book for my honest review.
May 14, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for this ARC in exchange for my fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Rating: 4 Stars
Publication Date: September 20, 2022
Number of Pages: 272
"Vanessa Jared’s Got a Man” is a second book reading by LaQuette that I found enjoyable and very much predictable. Hate to admit, but the cover of this book was eye catching, and I wanted to see the outcome of a much older woman trying to find her life from devoting it to a controlling and cheating ex-husband. The multicultural aspect was nice as I do on occasion like to read interracial love stories.
Vanessa Jared has devoted her life to one man who has molded her into what he believed to be an acceptable wife. It took her 20-something years to find out that he wasn’t who he was…an open cheating husband. Once divorce, she is recommended to attend a divorce group to try to work through all of the hurt and at the same time, find the person who she was before she got married. While attending the group meeting, she meets two other divorcees and they start a Savvy, Sexy Singles Club and agree that they would meet again to celebrate and catch up after two years. Unfortunately, as she was leaving her home to meet up with her divas, she meets Michael, a sexy sheriff who needs her help to prevent his sister from marrying the scoundrel of a husband that Vanessa was once married to. The heat is started upon their meeting and does not die down as they have to work together to break up his sister’s relationship. The closer they get; the building attraction mounts until they can’t deny they want one another and until their emotions lead to love. Well-written and quick read. Looking forward to Adam and Janae story. Definitely recommend the read😍.
Rating: 4 Stars
Publication Date: September 20, 2022
Number of Pages: 272
"Vanessa Jared’s Got a Man” is a second book reading by LaQuette that I found enjoyable and very much predictable. Hate to admit, but the cover of this book was eye catching, and I wanted to see the outcome of a much older woman trying to find her life from devoting it to a controlling and cheating ex-husband. The multicultural aspect was nice as I do on occasion like to read interracial love stories.
Vanessa Jared has devoted her life to one man who has molded her into what he believed to be an acceptable wife. It took her 20-something years to find out that he wasn’t who he was…an open cheating husband. Once divorce, she is recommended to attend a divorce group to try to work through all of the hurt and at the same time, find the person who she was before she got married. While attending the group meeting, she meets two other divorcees and they start a Savvy, Sexy Singles Club and agree that they would meet again to celebrate and catch up after two years. Unfortunately, as she was leaving her home to meet up with her divas, she meets Michael, a sexy sheriff who needs her help to prevent his sister from marrying the scoundrel of a husband that Vanessa was once married to. The heat is started upon their meeting and does not die down as they have to work together to break up his sister’s relationship. The closer they get; the building attraction mounts until they can’t deny they want one another and until their emotions lead to love. Well-written and quick read. Looking forward to Adam and Janae story. Definitely recommend the read😍.
September 29, 2022
I really enjoyed this one, both for the diversity and the development of Michael and Vanessa's relationship. Thank god it was not a supposed enemies to lovers situation lol. Also love that she had such a supportive group of female friends, we need more of that in literature as a whole. Overall, I would recommend if you're looking for something quick and cute to read
February 4, 2023
Probably my fav romcomish whatever you wanna call it book of Feb. so far!!!
Now normally I complain about mc and their love interest falling so fast, but this book did an amazing job at making me ignore that lol. The chemistry between Vanessa and Michael was truly INSANE. Like immediately the tension was there, and to make it even better we got both their pov's of each other. So not only do you see how downbad Michael was from the beginning, you see the internal conflict he has throughout the book.
This book didn't sway away from how much Vanessa's divorce with her ex-husband effected her. 20 years of a relationship took a toll on her and I'm happy their relationship didn't make her forget about it so fast. Even though, the reveal with his sister was short, it brought a bigger issue. Which is Vanessa being afraid if being controlled and Michaels savior complex.
Plus, them sex scenes ATE down. Michael was absolutely feral for her ever since he first saw her. Like wow, the bar is set so high with them. Can't wait to read about their besties next.
Now normally I complain about mc and their love interest falling so fast, but this book did an amazing job at making me ignore that lol. The chemistry between Vanessa and Michael was truly INSANE. Like immediately the tension was there, and to make it even better we got both their pov's of each other. So not only do you see how downbad Michael was from the beginning, you see the internal conflict he has throughout the book.
This book didn't sway away from how much Vanessa's divorce with her ex-husband effected her. 20 years of a relationship took a toll on her and I'm happy their relationship didn't make her forget about it so fast. Even though, the reveal with his sister was short, it brought a bigger issue. Which is Vanessa being afraid if being controlled and Michaels savior complex.
Plus, them sex scenes ATE down. Michael was absolutely feral for her ever since he first saw her. Like wow, the bar is set so high with them. Can't wait to read about their besties next.
September 19, 2022
Vanessa Jared, a woman in her 40s who has been divorced from an abusive husband for two years, is trying to get her life back on track. When small-town sheriff Michael Park asks for Vanessa’s help by talking to his sister, who is engaged to Vanessa’s ex-husband, Vanessa wants nothing to do with the situation. But Vanessa knows helping Michael is the right thing to do, and when she hears that her ex proposed with her grandmother’s ring, Vanessa makes a deal with Michael. She will go with him and talk to his sister, and he will get her grandmother’s ring back.
After 20 years of marriage to an emotionally and verbally abusive man, she doesn’t have much confidence and is struggling to find herself. She’s trying to find her purpose, and she learns so much about herself and what she wants over the course of the story. I love that the story realistically portrays her journey in healing from the abuse in her past while highlighting her strength, determination, and perseverance. I also love that the protagonist is a woman in her 40s. In many of the romance novels I read, the female protagonist is younger, and it’s great to see a more mature woman in the lead role.
The romance between Vanessa and Mike is also great, and I love how hard Mike falls for Vanessa. They have amazing chemistry and banter, and their spicy scenes are hot! Like, get a fan because the sex scenes fogged up my kindle! It was wonderful to see Vanessa and Mike find such passion and love and connection with each other.
I enjoyed the story. It’s fun and funny, sexy and sweet, and it has a great romance. The story also touches upon many relatable themes, including healing after divorce, the long-term affects of abuse, taking a second chance on love, body positivity, consent, embracing friendships (I’m talking to you Savvy, Sexy Singles Club!), and more. I would recommend it to readers who like contemporary romances with small-town charm, some touching and poignant scenes, awesome friendships, and a steamy love story.
Thanks so much to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
After 20 years of marriage to an emotionally and verbally abusive man, she doesn’t have much confidence and is struggling to find herself. She’s trying to find her purpose, and she learns so much about herself and what she wants over the course of the story. I love that the story realistically portrays her journey in healing from the abuse in her past while highlighting her strength, determination, and perseverance. I also love that the protagonist is a woman in her 40s. In many of the romance novels I read, the female protagonist is younger, and it’s great to see a more mature woman in the lead role.
The romance between Vanessa and Mike is also great, and I love how hard Mike falls for Vanessa. They have amazing chemistry and banter, and their spicy scenes are hot! Like, get a fan because the sex scenes fogged up my kindle! It was wonderful to see Vanessa and Mike find such passion and love and connection with each other.
I enjoyed the story. It’s fun and funny, sexy and sweet, and it has a great romance. The story also touches upon many relatable themes, including healing after divorce, the long-term affects of abuse, taking a second chance on love, body positivity, consent, embracing friendships (I’m talking to you Savvy, Sexy Singles Club!), and more. I would recommend it to readers who like contemporary romances with small-town charm, some touching and poignant scenes, awesome friendships, and a steamy love story.
Thanks so much to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
April 23, 2022
Ever since I saw this cover I was completely in love, and the inside was equally great. This is such a powerful book.
In this story you will find a woman getting his confidence and power back after a rat of a man took it from her, and doing it in the most satisfying way: stopping him from doing the same to another woman. You’ll also find an amazing support system: three divorced women teaming up to bring each other up and being each other’s biggest cheerleaders. I loved the savvy, sexy singles club. Cree, Janae and Vanessa are everything together!
There is also a steamy romance! I really enjoyed it since I always love the second chance at love trope. It was also a small town setting and I’m really loving those lately. Forced proximity plus chemistry plus a plan to tear down an abuser… I was sold. I really liked Michael and what he did for his sister by bringing Vanessa to her. It’s true that Cindy is a grown woman, but he did the right thing and I really loved seeing her leaving Karl.
The only “but” I have is that the book was too short, and the romance took up a big time (which is obvious since it’s a romance book), and I would have liked to see more of Vanessa and Cindy together.
Out September 20th! 💖
Thanks to St. Martin's Press for sharing an ecopy with me!
In this story you will find a woman getting his confidence and power back after a rat of a man took it from her, and doing it in the most satisfying way: stopping him from doing the same to another woman. You’ll also find an amazing support system: three divorced women teaming up to bring each other up and being each other’s biggest cheerleaders. I loved the savvy, sexy singles club. Cree, Janae and Vanessa are everything together!
There is also a steamy romance! I really enjoyed it since I always love the second chance at love trope. It was also a small town setting and I’m really loving those lately. Forced proximity plus chemistry plus a plan to tear down an abuser… I was sold. I really liked Michael and what he did for his sister by bringing Vanessa to her. It’s true that Cindy is a grown woman, but he did the right thing and I really loved seeing her leaving Karl.
The only “but” I have is that the book was too short, and the romance took up a big time (which is obvious since it’s a romance book), and I would have liked to see more of Vanessa and Cindy together.
Out September 20th! 💖
Thanks to St. Martin's Press for sharing an ecopy with me!
January 2, 2023
The set up is very interesting and intense and had me hooked! I couldn’t tear my attention away if I tried. We have a 40+ year old heroine who is living with ptsd after having spent 20 years in a mentally abusive relationship and a hero who doesn’t want to see his sister hurt.
When Michael does some investigating learns the guy his sister is marrying is lying about his previous wife being deceased, he tracks Vanessa down and asks her to speak wit his sister. There has to be a Why, right…and Madame LaQuette definitely ups the tension by adding in believable reasons as to Why a heroine who has escaped this dirtbag would want to potentially cross paths with him again. That’s what kept me reading. I needed to know!
My favorite part of this book is Vanessa’s unexpected friendships. I Iove their support and ride or die mentality and dedication to see each other move on and thrive.
When Michael does some investigating learns the guy his sister is marrying is lying about his previous wife being deceased, he tracks Vanessa down and asks her to speak wit his sister. There has to be a Why, right…and Madame LaQuette definitely ups the tension by adding in believable reasons as to Why a heroine who has escaped this dirtbag would want to potentially cross paths with him again. That’s what kept me reading. I needed to know!
My favorite part of this book is Vanessa’s unexpected friendships. I Iove their support and ride or die mentality and dedication to see each other move on and thrive.
September 12, 2022
Vanessa Jared is trying to figure out her life, after divorcing her toxic ex. But suddenly on her doorstep small town sheriff shows up. He wants her to talk to his little sister who is engaged to Vanessa's ex. They struck an agreement, but suddenly there's storm, and Vanessa and Michael grow close👀
It was really insta love/insta lust, they wanted each other since they first saw each other and they professed their feelings after knowing each other FOR A WEEK.
But it was okey, quick audiobook, could relax reading it. 4/5⭐
Thank you NetGalley for providing digital advanced copy in exchange for honest review.
It was really insta love/insta lust, they wanted each other since they first saw each other and they professed their feelings after knowing each other FOR A WEEK.
But it was okey, quick audiobook, could relax reading it. 4/5⭐
Thank you NetGalley for providing digital advanced copy in exchange for honest review.
September 17, 2022
Vanessa Jared is a 40 something Black woman who divorced her manipulative husband after 20+ years of marriage. While trying to find new direction and meaning in her life alongside friends from her divorce support class, Vanessa is approached by a small town Sheriff (Michael) who needs her help since his sister is engaged to Vanessa’s horrible ex.
It is so refreshing to read a romance book where the protagonist is not a 20 something.
As someone who also was lost after divorcing a manipulative ex husband, I felt seen through so much of Vanessa’s journey. I loved watching her navigate finding confidence, friendships, and love after her entire world was turned upside down.
The chemistry between Michael and Vanessa was amazing. The had fantastic banter, and those steamy scenes had me sweatin’! I also really enjoyed the two of them navigating communication and boundaries especially since they both have past trauma that shaped how they are.
Thank you SMP Romance for providing a gifted copy. This did not influence my review. All opinions are my own.
It is so refreshing to read a romance book where the protagonist is not a 20 something.
As someone who also was lost after divorcing a manipulative ex husband, I felt seen through so much of Vanessa’s journey. I loved watching her navigate finding confidence, friendships, and love after her entire world was turned upside down.
The chemistry between Michael and Vanessa was amazing. The had fantastic banter, and those steamy scenes had me sweatin’! I also really enjoyed the two of them navigating communication and boundaries especially since they both have past trauma that shaped how they are.
Thank you SMP Romance for providing a gifted copy. This did not influence my review. All opinions are my own.
November 3, 2022
Listen to this on audiobook. I never realize how nice it is to read a romance about an older couple, until I do, and it just hits a little different. The narrator did an amazing job, she switched voices and cadences but she never tried to sound like a guy. This was a really charming and slightly emotional contemporary read, so when the spice and dirty talk hit, it felt almost scandalous. Michael was book boy friend material for sure. And the friendships in the story really were special, the humor they add was awesome. Vanessa as a 40 yo fmc was truly special. Especially, considering the place I am in my life right now. I was worried this would be a little triggering but it wasn’t at all. The book does touch heavily on emotional abuse, so please be aware of that. But I applaud the author for shedding light on the fact that it is no less serious or harmful than physical abuse. I’ll definitely be on the look out for other works by this new to me author.
April 14, 2022
Vanessa Jared's Got a Man was a charming tale of love, passion and second chance.Vanessa and Michael were so well developed, flaws and all, but I was not connected to characters. They do have chemistry and and the steam level in this one is about as high as it can get, in my opinion. If you’re looking for a steamy read this is the book for you.
Special thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest opinions.
Special thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest opinions.
August 19, 2023
Loved that Michael and Vanessa were 40+
I liked the confidence that age gave the characters. There wasn't a ton of angst, because Michael and Vanessa were upfront about their feelings early on.
This was a slow enough burn that the story had some real merits before the intimate scenes, but when the 🌶 finally hit, it was 🥵. Steamy, and I'm not just saying that because of the shower scene.
This had a good plot, and I loved the unexpected close proximity and watching Vanessa fall in love with the small town that possessed her new love interest and her two best friends.
I definitely felt the physical chemistry between Michael and Vanessa but even though they had several moments of being vulnerable with each other, it was missing the deeper connection that made them seem like they were truly in love.
Recap:
Vanessa is a 40+ divorcee who got everything in the divorce. Now set financially, she still has the cheating and the emotional abuse to get over. It has been 3 years, but she still feels stalled about what her next move should be.
At a support group she meets 2 women, and the 3 become fast friends that help her on her journey of self love and discovery.
Michael's sister Cindy has just announced her engagement to a handsome widower, but when Michael finds his ex wife alive and well, he knows that he has to get his sister to see the truth before it is too late and her Inheritance is at risk.
Vanessa reluctantly agrees to come to the small town where Michael is the sheriff, if only to get the ring her ex has stolen from her and bestowed on his new fiancée.
When she finally trudges through the storm and into town on the days leading up to the towns biggest festival her room has been cancelled and everything is booked. What else can she do, but take Michael's spare room with her car needing a repair that is going to take days.
Michael's sister is delayed out of town so there is almost nothing for Vanessa and Michael to do except (lust after each other) get to know one another better.
Romance quickly ensues. After a few days of bliss Michael pushes things too far by arranging a meeting that will help Vanessa relocate. Triggered by the emotional, controlling abuse she once suffered, we have our 3rd act break-up.
Now Vanessa has to decide if she can trust Michael to respect her boundaries and pursue her dream of owning a small town accounting shop. And Michael needs to put himself first and trust that the people around him will be safe without his constant management.
The HEA was different than I expected in a good way
I liked the confidence that age gave the characters. There wasn't a ton of angst, because Michael and Vanessa were upfront about their feelings early on.
This was a slow enough burn that the story had some real merits before the intimate scenes, but when the 🌶 finally hit, it was 🥵. Steamy, and I'm not just saying that because of the shower scene.
This had a good plot, and I loved the unexpected close proximity and watching Vanessa fall in love with the small town that possessed her new love interest and her two best friends.
I definitely felt the physical chemistry between Michael and Vanessa but even though they had several moments of being vulnerable with each other, it was missing the deeper connection that made them seem like they were truly in love.
Recap:
Vanessa is a 40+ divorcee who got everything in the divorce. Now set financially, she still has the cheating and the emotional abuse to get over. It has been 3 years, but she still feels stalled about what her next move should be.
At a support group she meets 2 women, and the 3 become fast friends that help her on her journey of self love and discovery.
Michael's sister Cindy has just announced her engagement to a handsome widower, but when Michael finds his ex wife alive and well, he knows that he has to get his sister to see the truth before it is too late and her Inheritance is at risk.
Vanessa reluctantly agrees to come to the small town where Michael is the sheriff, if only to get the ring her ex has stolen from her and bestowed on his new fiancée.
When she finally trudges through the storm and into town on the days leading up to the towns biggest festival her room has been cancelled and everything is booked. What else can she do, but take Michael's spare room with her car needing a repair that is going to take days.
Michael's sister is delayed out of town so there is almost nothing for Vanessa and Michael to do except (lust after each other) get to know one another better.
Romance quickly ensues. After a few days of bliss Michael pushes things too far by arranging a meeting that will help Vanessa relocate. Triggered by the emotional, controlling abuse she once suffered, we have our 3rd act break-up.
Now Vanessa has to decide if she can trust Michael to respect her boundaries and pursue her dream of owning a small town accounting shop. And Michael needs to put himself first and trust that the people around him will be safe without his constant management.
The HEA was different than I expected in a good way
November 5, 2022
It's been two years since Vanessa Jared got divorced and she wants nothing to do with her emotionally abusive ex-husband. That's why she immediately refuses Sheriff Michael Park when he asks her to help keep his younger sister away from Vanessa's ex-husband. But when she finds out that her ex had given her grandmother's ring to Michael's sister, Vanessa is motivated to help Michael and get her ring back in the process.
I read this book purely because of the gorgeous cover. I liked the whole city girl in a small-town vibe this book had going. I also found the hero, heroine, and supporting characters likable. I just wish that the romance was based on something more than insta-lust. The stakes are also pretty low, which is fine. I do enjoy low angst and low stakes romances. But when the stakes are low, the banter and chemistry have to be exceptionally good to keep my attention. And while I did like Michael and Vanessa together, I just didn't get that sizzling chemistry I was expecting.
So overall, I did like this book, but it just didn't leave a lasting impression on me.
Thank you SMP for my complimentary copy.
I read this book purely because of the gorgeous cover. I liked the whole city girl in a small-town vibe this book had going. I also found the hero, heroine, and supporting characters likable. I just wish that the romance was based on something more than insta-lust. The stakes are also pretty low, which is fine. I do enjoy low angst and low stakes romances. But when the stakes are low, the banter and chemistry have to be exceptionally good to keep my attention. And while I did like Michael and Vanessa together, I just didn't get that sizzling chemistry I was expecting.
So overall, I did like this book, but it just didn't leave a lasting impression on me.
Thank you SMP for my complimentary copy.
May 16, 2022
I haven’t read many romances with older characters, but I’m so happy that I’ve chosen this one.
The cover alone is an amazing representation and one of my favourite ever now.
I loved the interaction, the mix of characters and how some stereotypes were off the charts.
It felt like being in the front row of the most beautiful people that played their life in front of me.
I recommend it for a quick and great romance story
4.5 stars
NetGalley arc
The cover alone is an amazing representation and one of my favourite ever now.
I loved the interaction, the mix of characters and how some stereotypes were off the charts.
It felt like being in the front row of the most beautiful people that played their life in front of me.
I recommend it for a quick and great romance story
4.5 stars
NetGalley arc
September 8, 2022
Liked but didn't love. This was a life and love after divorce romance featuring a diverse cast of characters. There's so great steamy scenes (man knows how to please his lady!) but the overall plot/story wasn't super compelling. Just an okay read for me but I do LOVE the cover! Much thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my review!
May 6, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and St Martin’s Press for an arc of this book! This book was beautiful and touched on so many important topics. Vanessa and Michael are so cute! There’s an auction in this book and Vanessa gives 2 million for Michael, anonymously of course!
TW: domestic violence
TW: domestic violence
September 3, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and St Martin’s Press for allowing me to give my honest thought on Vanessa Jared’s Got a Man!
Vanessa Jared is a newly single woman who just divorced her manipulative husband. She also took him for everything he had. While working on herself she goes to a divorce class where she meet two ladies Cree and Jane and they decide to ditch the class and head to a bar. The form a bond and a club.
Every year on the anniversary they met the ladies have a nice outing. On the day of their two year anniversary Michael Park the sheriff from a near by town that Cree and Janae live in stops by and ask that she help him stop his sister from marrying her ex husband.
I loved the story and I loved how it taught Vanessa that there was life after her divorce and to stop and look around especially in a small town.
Great Debut novel from the author!
Vanessa Jared is a newly single woman who just divorced her manipulative husband. She also took him for everything he had. While working on herself she goes to a divorce class where she meet two ladies Cree and Jane and they decide to ditch the class and head to a bar. The form a bond and a club.
Every year on the anniversary they met the ladies have a nice outing. On the day of their two year anniversary Michael Park the sheriff from a near by town that Cree and Janae live in stops by and ask that she help him stop his sister from marrying her ex husband.
I loved the story and I loved how it taught Vanessa that there was life after her divorce and to stop and look around especially in a small town.
Great Debut novel from the author!
July 20, 2023
The love interest is a cop and I’m not into that. The ML was a little too obsessed. The book starts off two years post-divorce as Vanessa is navigating her next move when all of a sudden a sheriff contacts her to help him on a personal matter, but that personal matter isn’t actually addressed until almost the end. I liked seeing the snippets of Vanessa’s journey to be more self-assured.
November 11, 2022
First of all just look at that cover...GORGEOUS!!
This was a fast paced, short, sexy romance book! Sometimes a little too fast paced for my liking but still very enjoyable! All the characters were very funny and it had a good message about moving on and finding love again no matter how long it takes. And I always love to read about Black women finding love! I'm excited to read the other books coming up in this series!
3.25/5 Stars ⭐️
This was a fast paced, short, sexy romance book! Sometimes a little too fast paced for my liking but still very enjoyable! All the characters were very funny and it had a good message about moving on and finding love again no matter how long it takes. And I always love to read about Black women finding love! I'm excited to read the other books coming up in this series!
3.25/5 Stars ⭐️
August 11, 2025
3.5 Stars, this was pretty cringe but Michael Park was hot for a fictional character.
January 8, 2023
Great book with the best Hallmark romance tropes, hot small town guy, and a girl from the big city falling in love with said guy and town. It also had a unique plot and very hot scenes. I ate it all up!
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