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Constellation #1
The Chase
Gabriella Worrington, who has just moved with her family to a new San Francisco neighborhood, clashes with Seren Doyle, president of the local homeowner association. Their meeting is interrupted, leading to a fast-paced, eventful race across the country, with both the mob and the FBI nipping at their heels.
The Chase, the first book in the Constellation series, is a stand-alone romance novel featuring two women confronted with a past they'd rather forget and secrets they'd prefer to bury, as they navigate the closeness that grows between them and the uncertain future that lies ahead.
The Chase, the first book in the Constellation series, is a stand-alone romance novel featuring two women confronted with a past they'd rather forget and secrets they'd prefer to bury, as they navigate the closeness that grows between them and the uncertain future that lies ahead.
306 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 14, 2022
65 people are currently reading
144 people want to read
About the author
Sabrina Blaum
10 books54 followersSabrina Blaum hails originally from Germany and moved to the United States in 2006. She studied Sociology, Geographic Information Systems, and English at a local university in Alabama, at which she is currently teaching English Composition.
She has always written and wrote her first “novel” in elementary school, when she decided that Enid Blyton’s Malory Towers needed a sequel. She also had the habit of telling her late grandmother bedtime stories.
Sabrina is an avid reader and writer, and she loves to spend time with family and friends.
She has always written and wrote her first “novel” in elementary school, when she decided that Enid Blyton’s Malory Towers needed a sequel. She also had the habit of telling her late grandmother bedtime stories.
Sabrina is an avid reader and writer, and she loves to spend time with family and friends.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
May 22, 2025
**'Most times it's good to first develop whatever storyline that you want to tell, then slowly try to ease the many different characters and tale that's in your head --- then fruitfully, tell the story that you want to tell. Do not sway into telling that story you believe will impress readers..'
Enjoyable read!
A nicely written and fascinating storyline.
Recommended!
Enjoyable read!
A nicely written and fascinating storyline.
Recommended!
July 2, 2022
Kindle Unlimited. Not great.
Interesting premise but marred by two main characters that flip-flop all too much, and have continuous issues that keep getting rehashed throughout.
They are supposed to be 45 and 50 respectively but they could have been much younger in terms of their maturity and lack of common sense. It became irritating. (One is basically the worst Crime Boss ever.)
The two voices of our MCs were interchangeable and barely different. The repetition and sexual chemistry coming up at awkward times was just that. Darn cringey. I never felt any real attraction or connection here, and never truly cared for their circumstances.
As always; try it out yourself on KU.
Interesting premise but marred by two main characters that flip-flop all too much, and have continuous issues that keep getting rehashed throughout.
They are supposed to be 45 and 50 respectively but they could have been much younger in terms of their maturity and lack of common sense. It became irritating. (One is basically the worst Crime Boss ever.)
The two voices of our MCs were interchangeable and barely different. The repetition and sexual chemistry coming up at awkward times was just that. Darn cringey. I never felt any real attraction or connection here, and never truly cared for their circumstances.
As always; try it out yourself on KU.
July 20, 2024
4 Stars
Again, I am pleasantly surprised by the Constellation series. The Chase was quite nuanced when it came to the main characters’ lives. Yes, it’s instalove but their personalities just complement each other. And the fact that they are in their mid forties to fifties meant that they just communicated their feelings and not beat around the bush. It’s refreshing.
Again, I am pleasantly surprised by the Constellation series. The Chase was quite nuanced when it came to the main characters’ lives. Yes, it’s instalove but their personalities just complement each other. And the fact that they are in their mid forties to fifties meant that they just communicated their feelings and not beat around the bush. It’s refreshing.
March 1, 2023
Sorry - to enjoy a book I need to like the main characters, belief in the story which should be based in reality. I didn’t. Move on
July 3, 2022
This was such a fun read! The story is a great balance of suspenseful and funny with lots of snappy dialogue between the two main characters as they make their way across the country. The chemistry between them was great, and I loved to see how the tension built up to some very satisfying sexy scenes! Not to mention, it was so refreshing to see a romance about older women (mid 40’s to 50) whose ages are treated with complete respect.
Would definitely recommend and am looking forward the rest of the series!
Would definitely recommend and am looking forward the rest of the series!
July 2, 2022
I loved this one! It is well written and the characters spent so much time together. Their dialogue is great, too. And funny but also serious and meaningful. I loved the chemistry between them, and the sex scenes are super hot. Would recommend, and definitely plan to read the next one.
January 10, 2023
Not a bad read, it's entertaining, doubt witness protection would work like portrayed in the Chase.
August 25, 2022
A copy of the book was provided to Sapphic Book Club in exchange for an honest review.
The Chase follows Gabriella and Seren after their meeting about trees is interrupted by gun fire. Without giving any details away, the characters travel around the country trying to avoid those who are chasing them.
I struggled a bit with this book, mostly with suspending my disbelief enough to enjoy the journey. I've read a handful of books with similar characters and narratives and enjoyed them. What I struggled with was the characters. Both characters were in the late 40's/early 50's, and had been in their careers for several decades but there were inconsistencies. What the characters described of themselves didn't match up with actions or internal dialog. The inconsistencies kept kicking me out of the story.
The premise was interesting and I am curious to see where the series goes. I feel like the character inconsistencies comes from Blaum being a newer writer and I am excited to see where they go, as a writer.
The Chase follows Gabriella and Seren after their meeting about trees is interrupted by gun fire. Without giving any details away, the characters travel around the country trying to avoid those who are chasing them.
I struggled a bit with this book, mostly with suspending my disbelief enough to enjoy the journey. I've read a handful of books with similar characters and narratives and enjoyed them. What I struggled with was the characters. Both characters were in the late 40's/early 50's, and had been in their careers for several decades but there were inconsistencies. What the characters described of themselves didn't match up with actions or internal dialog. The inconsistencies kept kicking me out of the story.
The premise was interesting and I am curious to see where the series goes. I feel like the character inconsistencies comes from Blaum being a newer writer and I am excited to see where they go, as a writer.
November 12, 2025
Interesting concept but very disappointing. Early on, the characters were fun and had some zing as they clashed, but the story soon bogged down. It felt like the author wanted to add action and tension did not feel confident writing either. Every possible threat was defused nearly immediately, often off-screen or in some other tell-don't-show way. Mob kidnapping? Resolved without threat and according to plan. Sudden treachery? Confirmed within pages of it being hinted to exist, and resolved entirely off screen. Legal drama that has been fuelling this? Resolved off screen during a time skip.
The zing and clash of the characters disappeared about halfway through to be replaced by chapters of She thought... She had said... She wanted... She felt... All the distance words rather than being revealed organicly through the characters actions and words. By the end even the sex scenes were f9lled with this, interspersed with flat and perfunctory descriptions.
It felt like the author stopped caring halfway through but just needed to get the story finished. Very disappointed.
The zing and clash of the characters disappeared about halfway through to be replaced by chapters of She thought... She had said... She wanted... She felt... All the distance words rather than being revealed organicly through the characters actions and words. By the end even the sex scenes were f9lled with this, interspersed with flat and perfunctory descriptions.
It felt like the author stopped caring halfway through but just needed to get the story finished. Very disappointed.
April 29, 2024
When Bree Worthington flounces to Seren Doyle’s house to complain about an HOA issue, she gets way more than she bargained for as she is whisked away on a grand “adventure” that entails eluding the mafia, omitting details to her family, and trying to come to grips with her deepening feelings for Seren.
The Chase is a fun, forced proximity romance with a lot of witty banter, suspenseful moments, and an adorable kid. Their journey across the country is filled with twists and turns, snark, and a few steamy encounters.
Audiobook note: I thoroughly enjoyed listening to the audio of The Chase. Sabrina Blaum’s excellent writing paired with JK Anders’s performance makes this book a really fun listen. Anders upheld Bree’s southern accent, Seren’s sexy timber, Parker’s enthusiasm, and all other characters they came in contact with.
The Chase is a fun, forced proximity romance with a lot of witty banter, suspenseful moments, and an adorable kid. Their journey across the country is filled with twists and turns, snark, and a few steamy encounters.
Audiobook note: I thoroughly enjoyed listening to the audio of The Chase. Sabrina Blaum’s excellent writing paired with JK Anders’s performance makes this book a really fun listen. Anders upheld Bree’s southern accent, Seren’s sexy timber, Parker’s enthusiasm, and all other characters they came in contact with.
December 14, 2023
Do not start unless you can finish in one reading because that is exactly what you’ll want to do right from the beginning. The narrative is excellent and the banter between the main characters keeps you hooked throughout. The conclusion is succinct and while I would have enjoyed more detail it definitely did not disappoint. Not to mention the simmering heat and eventual eruption, wow, it was perfect. I found it refreshing to come across a story where the main characters portrayed are over 45 and I’m very grateful the author did not shy away from this. An easy, enjoyable read all around and a great introduction to ‘Constellation’ a stand-alone contemporary romance series. This is my honest review of the free copy I received.
January 11, 2023
I read this in one sitting. It was an easy read for me but that is not to say it doesn't have depth. It does. The characters (along with all their emotional baggage and hang-ups) felt real to me. The setting may be fantastical but who's to say it can't happen in real life? Stranger things...Anyway, I raced through the pages as Bree and Seren raced through the country for their lives. I enjoyed the banter as well as the romance and adrenaline rush in some parts.
There are a couple or so of sexy scenes so if that isn't for you, you might want to read with caution. Consider yourself warned. I don't think it detracts from the story but if you want you can skip those scenes.
There are a couple or so of sexy scenes so if that isn't for you, you might want to read with caution. Consider yourself warned. I don't think it detracts from the story but if you want you can skip those scenes.
November 8, 2022
Bree and Seren are each at a point of making a change in their lives. Their meet-cute over HOA tree-planting rules kicks off quite a chain of events. The ensuing crime organization story arc is a little too slap-dash to seem serious but not quite ditzy enough to seem madcap. Their relationship develops in fits and starts while the running from the mob escapade unfolds. The narrative is a little choppy in spots but overall, it is a decent read with a satisfying conclusion.
September 26, 2023
Compelling, but drawn out
The story was very compelling to read. It had excitement and suspense, as well as characters that you wanted to just punch in the face. However, toward the end, it felt a bit drawn out, and then it just ended. Then, it was all this extra stuff to get to the end to leave the rating. I have to wonder if all that was done just pad the stats because the more pages read the more money you receive from kindle unlimited.
The story was very compelling to read. It had excitement and suspense, as well as characters that you wanted to just punch in the face. However, toward the end, it felt a bit drawn out, and then it just ended. Then, it was all this extra stuff to get to the end to leave the rating. I have to wonder if all that was done just pad the stats because the more pages read the more money you receive from kindle unlimited.
November 24, 2025
Enjoyed it.
However. Listened to the audiobook;
1) her name was mispronounced Serene the whole way though. Her name was Seren. Seren is Welsh and means “star”. Which works neatly with the constellation series name (I assume named for O’Ryan/ the four texts are clearly linked - plus how cool would it be if E is diminutive for Étoile?!)
2) the late in text fisting was a surprise - slow slow burn for most of it, then “bang” and crikey.
However. Listened to the audiobook;
1) her name was mispronounced Serene the whole way though. Her name was Seren. Seren is Welsh and means “star”. Which works neatly with the constellation series name (I assume named for O’Ryan/ the four texts are clearly linked - plus how cool would it be if E is diminutive for Étoile?!)
2) the late in text fisting was a surprise - slow slow burn for most of it, then “bang” and crikey.
July 21, 2022
YAY another book by Sabrina and another one I finished in mere days. Although I prefer fantasy genres, I'll always read a book that has gays because let's be real... we need more of those! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and laughed at the humor multiple times. I already can't wait to read the second installment!
December 6, 2023
The title says it all as it kicks off with the danger and running. I really enjoyed the dynamic between Seren and Bree. Their witty banter added comedy to the crazy start that forced them together. Parker was great and it was funny to see how Bree would try to sneak him more candy and sweets. I really enjoyed the book.
February 18, 2024
Enough!
I always enjoy a story where a character decided that they are enough. So often women will not claim their confidence (and happiness) and succumb to pressures because it is just easier that way. I really enjoyed this unexpected and unusual road trip. This forced proximity tale gave both MCs a new foundation for their lives. GOOD STORY!
I always enjoy a story where a character decided that they are enough. So often women will not claim their confidence (and happiness) and succumb to pressures because it is just easier that way. I really enjoyed this unexpected and unusual road trip. This forced proximity tale gave both MCs a new foundation for their lives. GOOD STORY!
January 12, 2023
Amazing
Beautifully written filled with action packed scenes and great characters with great dialogues. Heartwarming to see both characters grow to their potential with courage to live the best life for them with a HEA.
Beautifully written filled with action packed scenes and great characters with great dialogues. Heartwarming to see both characters grow to their potential with courage to live the best life for them with a HEA.
December 3, 2023
The Chase
This was so much fun to read from the beginning. It was fast-paced. I love the chemistry between the MCs. This was the first book I read by Sabrina Blaum. I look forward to the next book in the series.
This was so much fun to read from the beginning. It was fast-paced. I love the chemistry between the MCs. This was the first book I read by Sabrina Blaum. I look forward to the next book in the series.
January 28, 2024
I really wanted to like this. The first couple of chapters were great, but after that I had trouble reading it. It was difficult to know who was speaking at times. The dialogue moved fast without indication of who was speaking. It made it confusing. If that was fixed, I might give it another try.
July 28, 2025
Rounded up from 3.5 stars because the book was okay but the narration almost made me dnf the book, too much breathing noise from the narrator.
November 24, 2025
I liked the characters and the development. The premise is interesting — similar to a Rita Potter book if you enjoyed this one.
High spice!
Bree was totally delightful as was the child. Kids always make me happy. It was harder to like Seren at first but you end up liking her because she melds so well in a sort of opposites attract theme.
The narration was fun and I enjoyed the book.
There issues with the sizes of beds was kind of funny to me — especially since they are portrayed as both being thin.
Enjoy!
High spice!
Bree was totally delightful as was the child. Kids always make me happy. It was harder to like Seren at first but you end up liking her because she melds so well in a sort of opposites attract theme.
The narration was fun and I enjoyed the book.
There issues with the sizes of beds was kind of funny to me — especially since they are portrayed as both being thin.
Enjoy!
November 24, 2025
A tad naive, but very cute action romance
July 30, 2023
I was given this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
I am a lover of audiobooks and this (new to me) author and narrator did not disappoint!
This book has it all; intrigue, humor, romance, and steam all encased in an engaging and well developed storyline. From the first 10 minutes of listening, I was hooked. Brie with her southern accent, humor and charm and Seren with her doubt and don’t bother me attitude. The action kicks off early as they escape the syndicate and the chase begins. As their lives intertwine and their attraction grows the reader is drawn in deeper into the story. The dialogue flows easily and I could not stop listening until I fell asleep late into the night and had to rewind when I woke up lol.
I highly recommend this book and will be seeking out more to enjoy from Sabrina Blaum!
I am a lover of audiobooks and this (new to me) author and narrator did not disappoint!
This book has it all; intrigue, humor, romance, and steam all encased in an engaging and well developed storyline. From the first 10 minutes of listening, I was hooked. Brie with her southern accent, humor and charm and Seren with her doubt and don’t bother me attitude. The action kicks off early as they escape the syndicate and the chase begins. As their lives intertwine and their attraction grows the reader is drawn in deeper into the story. The dialogue flows easily and I could not stop listening until I fell asleep late into the night and had to rewind when I woke up lol.
I highly recommend this book and will be seeking out more to enjoy from Sabrina Blaum!
August 4, 2023
I listened to this audiobook very well narrated by J K Anders.
I enjoyed the story from the beginning- it’s part time suspense part time romance - the suspense part is in the light end so no bloody murders in this story. Instead you follow two strangers being forced together because of unpredictable circumstances. The women lives are getting intertwined and the romance part feels realistic and the connection between them are strong.
I enjoy their ride though the country and their beginning of a romance that of course leads to some steamy times in the bedroom
I will definitely listen to the rest of the series when the next stories will be available on audiobooks
I enjoyed the story from the beginning- it’s part time suspense part time romance - the suspense part is in the light end so no bloody murders in this story. Instead you follow two strangers being forced together because of unpredictable circumstances. The women lives are getting intertwined and the romance part feels realistic and the connection between them are strong.
I enjoy their ride though the country and their beginning of a romance that of course leads to some steamy times in the bedroom
I will definitely listen to the rest of the series when the next stories will be available on audiobooks
August 2, 2023
I really enjoyed this.
The book was funny but also serious and dealt with some heavy topics in a good way. I loved Seren - she makes a decidedly awkward and awesome mob boss. And Gabriella is just the sweetest, especially when it comes to looking after other people. I also thought the side characters were well-developed and I definitely want to see more from them
I definitely look forward to the next book in the series.
The book was funny but also serious and dealt with some heavy topics in a good way. I loved Seren - she makes a decidedly awkward and awesome mob boss. And Gabriella is just the sweetest, especially when it comes to looking after other people. I also thought the side characters were well-developed and I definitely want to see more from them
I definitely look forward to the next book in the series.
October 24, 2025
Oh going against your father and the Syndicate. Trying to keep safe enough to testify. The Chase is on. Great premise for a great tale
Well worth a re listen So glad there is a second book
Well worth a re listen So glad there is a second book
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews