(audiobook) This series keeps getting better.
First of all, this time, we get a full background story for both main characters, and they even interact a lot with side characters who are way more defined. Definitely an improvement. It helps with relating with them and their struggles.
Though there are a few sexy scenes–and Ruby literally manages a sex club–this book is far from being erotica. Ruby and Joshua’s attraction for each other is as strong as with the previous couples, but there’s something more between them. Namely, a little girl. That makes for more emotional moments. The child is also at the center of most of their struggles, from Joshua missing her childhood, to the reason he and Ruby were kept apart, to the problem with Ruby’s job. Well though out.
Joshua and Ruby are surrounded by many people, from their family to their coworkers, and they’re all much more than just cardboard characters. Some bring humor, other are here to help or threaten their relationship. There’s also a real attempt at diversity, with disabled characters, characters from various origins or religions, queer characters… including the main characters.
It isn’t a political piece though, and the romance is very much the focus. It was a cute second chance, with Joshua trying to find his place as a father, and Ruby slowly giving it to him. Sweet seduction until the grande finale.
The narration too was better, because both narrators had the same energy, and their voices matched. They were both good too, which made Joshua and Ruby’s story even better.
Quickie
- Series: UCC saga #3 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #second chance romance #secret baby #single mom #sex club #mixed heritage #multicultural relationship
- Triggers: some minor sexual harassment from and to background characters
- Main couple: Ruby O’Brien & Joshua Becker
- Hotness: 3/5
- Romance: 4/5
- + the somewhat positive view of the sex industry
- – sounded mafia sometimes…