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The Matchmakers #2
The Art of Romance
Dylan Bradley, who once illustrated steamy romances under the name Patrick Callaghan, has moved into his grandparents' guest house in Nashville. Caylor Evans, having once written titillating novels under the penname Melanie Mason, lives with her grandmother. When their lives collide, due to the machinations of meddling matriarchs, the pasts of Dylan and Caylor threaten to derail their futures. Will they accept each other for who they now are and once were? Or will they never discover the true art of romance?
320 pages, Paperback
First published April 6, 2011
18 people are currently reading
349 people want to read
About the author
Kaye Dacus
19 books224 followersKaye Dacus is a professional editor, author, and educator who has been writing fiction for more nearly forty years. Pursuing her passion for writing, she earned a Master of Arts in Writing Popular Fiction from Seton Hill University. Kaye lives in Middle Tennessee, where she is a training documentation specialist in the IT industry and volunteers teaching writing in the community. She writes contemporary and historical romances; and while her contemporary romances are out of print, her historicals are available at most major retailers. To learn more about Kaye and her books, visit her website at kayedacus.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
September 29, 2021
4.5!
I got the itch to re-read this one and the third book, and took advantage of Thanksgiving break to do so. I remembered having so much FUN reading these, and I was not disappointed. I loved how REAL Kaye Dacus builds her characters. The people in this book seemed like the kind that you COULD just come across in your life. Her characters are flawed, messy, and absolutely delightful. I didn't completely agree with everything her characters believed, but they're characters, and we have to remember that. One thing I AM glad of: Dylan showed remorse over the choices that he made. Yes, he was a victim, but he also took responsibility for the choices that were his. I appreciated that.
And Caylor. She just reads like someone you would WANT to be friends with. I just loved her relationship with Sassy. I wanted to jump in the kitchen and talk with them. And throttle her sister.
I got the itch to re-read this one and the third book, and took advantage of Thanksgiving break to do so. I remembered having so much FUN reading these, and I was not disappointed. I loved how REAL Kaye Dacus builds her characters. The people in this book seemed like the kind that you COULD just come across in your life. Her characters are flawed, messy, and absolutely delightful. I didn't completely agree with everything her characters believed, but they're characters, and we have to remember that. One thing I AM glad of: Dylan showed remorse over the choices that he made. Yes, he was a victim, but he also took responsibility for the choices that were his. I appreciated that.
And Caylor. She just reads like someone you would WANT to be friends with. I just loved her relationship with Sassy. I wanted to jump in the kitchen and talk with them. And throttle her sister.
May 18, 2011
I loved The Art of Romance by Kaye Dacus. I mean, I really loved it. I read a lot of books, but this book was one of those that I kept thinking about after I turned the last page. I loved it because the characters were real and I was able to forget I was reading and just live in the story world. When a book can transport me like that...well, that makes it a five-star read for me.
Here's the back cover copy:
Sassy Evans and Perty Bradley are determined to get their older grandchildren married off, but when twenty-eight-year-old Dylan comes home after being fired from his teaching position because of the betrayal of his ex-girlfriend, Perty knows her grandson has more important issues to deal with.
Sassy understands her friend's issues with timing, but she also sees so many ways in which Dylan would be the perfect match for her thirty-four-year-old granddaughter Caylor. With his record of acclaimed paintings and Caylor's best selling novels, they could compliment each other's talents and provide each other support and encouragement. And there's no denying the spark of attraction between the English professor with the untamed red hair and the painter with the unusual tattoos.
But neither grandmother realizes the secrets both Caylor and Dylan are keeping from each other. Will pain and embarrassment from the past keep Caylor and Dylan apart, or will the develop the courage to be truthful with each other and discover the true art of romance?
My thoughts:
I loved the theme of forgiveness and acceptance throughout the book. Dylan had some issues in his past that had him building up walls, struggling to forgive himself for things done. The author made Dylan so real to me that my heart just ached for him. I wanted to help enfold him into God's peace and give him assurance that God knows and accepts him no matter what. It was beautiful to see his gradual acceptance of himself.
Caylor was a unique character in looks and had a great personality. Extremely tall and self-assured, she seemed to radiate life and confidence. I think the thing I liked about Caylor was her acceptance. While she longed for romance in her life, she accepted her place helping care for her grandmother. She was accepting of others whose lifestyle was unlike her own. She was accepting of other's faults and past life, choosing to see them as God's handiwork...a work in progress.
I think Kaye Dacus does such a great job with character building. She weaves in dialogue that gives us such a sense of who the characters are without telling us about them. The romantic tension is tangible and made my heart skip a bit in places. She has created a great cast of secondary characters that adds depth and texture to the story. There's the grandmothers, the friends, Dylan's brothers, his mom and dad, and then some coworkers. I think one of my favorite scenes is with Dylan and his brothers. Their camaraderie made my heart smile and had me wondering if there might be a future series planned with them.
One of the unique things about the book is the seven year age difference between Caylor and Dylan...with Caylor being the older one. You don't see that often and I love how Kaye made it seem natural. You are aware of it, but it never seems awkward.
Anyone whose heart longs for others to find healing from their past will enjoy reading this compelling story. The Art of Romance is full of hope and longing fulfilled. It is a story of the bloom of love in the midst of healing and discovery.
The Art of Romance is a keeper and I can't say enough good things about it. So far it's my favorite of Kaye Dacus's library of work.
Here's the back cover copy:
Sassy Evans and Perty Bradley are determined to get their older grandchildren married off, but when twenty-eight-year-old Dylan comes home after being fired from his teaching position because of the betrayal of his ex-girlfriend, Perty knows her grandson has more important issues to deal with.
Sassy understands her friend's issues with timing, but she also sees so many ways in which Dylan would be the perfect match for her thirty-four-year-old granddaughter Caylor. With his record of acclaimed paintings and Caylor's best selling novels, they could compliment each other's talents and provide each other support and encouragement. And there's no denying the spark of attraction between the English professor with the untamed red hair and the painter with the unusual tattoos.
But neither grandmother realizes the secrets both Caylor and Dylan are keeping from each other. Will pain and embarrassment from the past keep Caylor and Dylan apart, or will the develop the courage to be truthful with each other and discover the true art of romance?
My thoughts:
I loved the theme of forgiveness and acceptance throughout the book. Dylan had some issues in his past that had him building up walls, struggling to forgive himself for things done. The author made Dylan so real to me that my heart just ached for him. I wanted to help enfold him into God's peace and give him assurance that God knows and accepts him no matter what. It was beautiful to see his gradual acceptance of himself.
Caylor was a unique character in looks and had a great personality. Extremely tall and self-assured, she seemed to radiate life and confidence. I think the thing I liked about Caylor was her acceptance. While she longed for romance in her life, she accepted her place helping care for her grandmother. She was accepting of others whose lifestyle was unlike her own. She was accepting of other's faults and past life, choosing to see them as God's handiwork...a work in progress.
I think Kaye Dacus does such a great job with character building. She weaves in dialogue that gives us such a sense of who the characters are without telling us about them. The romantic tension is tangible and made my heart skip a bit in places. She has created a great cast of secondary characters that adds depth and texture to the story. There's the grandmothers, the friends, Dylan's brothers, his mom and dad, and then some coworkers. I think one of my favorite scenes is with Dylan and his brothers. Their camaraderie made my heart smile and had me wondering if there might be a future series planned with them.
One of the unique things about the book is the seven year age difference between Caylor and Dylan...with Caylor being the older one. You don't see that often and I love how Kaye made it seem natural. You are aware of it, but it never seems awkward.
Anyone whose heart longs for others to find healing from their past will enjoy reading this compelling story. The Art of Romance is full of hope and longing fulfilled. It is a story of the bloom of love in the midst of healing and discovery.
The Art of Romance is a keeper and I can't say enough good things about it. So far it's my favorite of Kaye Dacus's library of work.
August 21, 2012
Didn't like this at all. The characters were full of angst and self hatred over silly errors in judgment that they were convinced were terrible "sins". As I'm not christian this whole mindset just seemed unproductive. Their terrible sins consisted of writing romance novels, doing cover art for said novels, and getting involved in a bad relationship (with sex involved - and the sinner is in his late 20s).
There was so much made of age difference in couples, especially if it is the "wrong" way (she's older than he). It just seemed a bit ridiculous to worry about a few years when everyone is an adult.
For a christian book there was a lot of judging, especially about the younger sister, who was deemed to be "unambitious" which I guess is a sin for American christians. Apparently that stuff in the bible about judging not isn't really to be taken seriously.
Also found it boring to be told about the main male character traipsing around from one church to another looking for the perfect fit. who cares?
Just not my cup of tea. I read about 2/3 of the book and then just decided to stop. Why waste my time on characters I don't like?
There was so much made of age difference in couples, especially if it is the "wrong" way (she's older than he). It just seemed a bit ridiculous to worry about a few years when everyone is an adult.
For a christian book there was a lot of judging, especially about the younger sister, who was deemed to be "unambitious" which I guess is a sin for American christians. Apparently that stuff in the bible about judging not isn't really to be taken seriously.
Also found it boring to be told about the main male character traipsing around from one church to another looking for the perfect fit. who cares?
Just not my cup of tea. I read about 2/3 of the book and then just decided to stop. Why waste my time on characters I don't like?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 25, 2018
This is the second installment of the Matchmaker series by KD. I have to say I enjoyed the first one book more. In this story, to me, the middle seemed to drag and I found I would force myself to just keep reading just to get through it; however it did pick up the last quarter of the book, which made it more enjoyable.
This is Caylor's story of the three friends (Zarah's story was the first novel), and her character was fine, but the hero, Dylan, was weak. I do not mean the character development in this novel, but the way he was acted throughout the novel and I wondered what did Caylor ever saw in him. Dylan's character arc was all about how he wanted to "find" himself. I think I would have been less put off if it focused more on getting over his last relationship instead of "finding" himself.
I do like how this series has the backstory of the matchmaking manipulation the grandmothers do. It's different than other Christian romance novels.
If you like KD's writing, her "Brides of Bonneterre" is better, IMHO.
This is Caylor's story of the three friends (Zarah's story was the first novel), and her character was fine, but the hero, Dylan, was weak. I do not mean the character development in this novel, but the way he was acted throughout the novel and I wondered what did Caylor ever saw in him. Dylan's character arc was all about how he wanted to "find" himself. I think I would have been less put off if it focused more on getting over his last relationship instead of "finding" himself.
I do like how this series has the backstory of the matchmaking manipulation the grandmothers do. It's different than other Christian romance novels.
If you like KD's writing, her "Brides of Bonneterre" is better, IMHO.
February 15, 2015
This.book.was.remarkable. Major kudos for this author. I read a lot of Christian fiction and a lot of times I'm suspending my disbelief and shaking my head by how couples end up together when clearly one or both really need counseling. This book had the hero being the hurt one, recovering from a controlling relationship and acknowledging it and getting help before proceeding with the new relationship. WHAT?! Yes! Magnificently done! I truly appreciated the message, the realness and just the likable factor of the main characters. Truly a great romance! I can't wait for book 3!
June 6, 2011
The Art of Romance is the first Kaye Dacus book I'd read. I found I love her voice. And her characters. They caught my interest right away and carried me along. This is definitely a Southern novel with its emphasis on family and a quirky one at that. So I can recommend this entertaining book --to those who like humor, genuine emotion and a touch of romance. Way to go, Kaye!
March 22, 2015
A slightly different twist on a typical romance storyline. Dylan, our hero, is recovering from an emotionally controlling relationship with an older woman; his boss. He comes home after getting fired and finds himself falling in love with Caylor; an older woman and his colleague.
Good story, but lite on the actual romance. Good ending. Looking forward to book three.
Good story, but lite on the actual romance. Good ending. Looking forward to book three.
December 19, 2023
Fun, cute, engaging and funny.
The book had an effortless flow that translated to a lovely read. Characters felt real as they dealt with issues and fell in love, meddled with relatives and lived their lives.
Probably a more character driven read, but enough interesting plot points that kept a plot girlie interested throughout.
Really interesting topics were explored from Christian perspectives, and done in a way that didn’t make a reader feel preached at.
Through flawed and realistic people, we saw a great story unfold.
The book had an effortless flow that translated to a lovely read. Characters felt real as they dealt with issues and fell in love, meddled with relatives and lived their lives.
Probably a more character driven read, but enough interesting plot points that kept a plot girlie interested throughout.
Really interesting topics were explored from Christian perspectives, and done in a way that didn’t make a reader feel preached at.
Through flawed and realistic people, we saw a great story unfold.
June 12, 2021
So many times their lives had crossed and they did not know each other, but their Grandmothers were best friends for life. Would Taylor and Dylan work with their plans to get great grandbabies? Would Dylan listen to God as He leads him to forgiveness and a life of love and harmony or would he judge Caylor to the woman that had almost destroyed his life. They both had hang ups but will they let God guide them through this romance? Very good read.
June 22, 2019
Picked this book up as part of the romance books for my daughter's shower. Story is cute and a bit predictable. The story line revolves around two older women who are friends with the hobby of matchmaking, especially for their families. The title is a pun, which becomes understandable as the story proceeds. Would be an appropriate read for older teens or adults.
May 20, 2020
I just discovered this author and wish I could find more but can’t find any!Absolutely loved this book. I loved the age differences between the characters and how they felt about it. It was clean without being over the top.
July 21, 2021
I liked both of these characters - Caylor and Dylan. This one sucked me in. Thought it was a little much that they were embarrassed by a kiss - but I did appreciate that they didn't just jump right in bed together. Can't wait to see where this series goes next.
November 21, 2021
Sweet story of a young man who is growing through his mistakes and a young woman who intrigues him. Their grandmothers are best friends and know they are meant to be together, so they hatch a plan and wife God’s help it just might work.
August 11, 2017
Not entirely like the "typical" Christian romance. I like how the main characters have to deal with sensitive real life issues that we tend to overlook.
December 5, 2017
Should have been spaced better. Too cluttered and busy.
September 7, 2023
Cute series
January 29, 2017
Fun but a little slow in the second half.
May 3, 2011
The Art of Romance by Kaye Dacus
Barbour, 2011
319 pages
Christian Romance
3.5/5 stars
Source: Received a free copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I did not like this book as much as Love Remains but the ending still made me a little teary-eyed as I ended up invested in the relationship of Caylor and Dylan, both of whom believe they have significant baggage.
Caylor lives with her grandmother, having moved in after the death of her grandfather to provide transportation and support. She has resigned herself to never getting involved in a relationship due to her obligation to her grandmother. Instead she celebrates Zarah and Bobby's pending marriage and throws herself into life at the college where she is tenured and into her inspirational romance novels.
Dylan has legitimate baggage and then baggage I found ridiculous. The legitimacy comes from a verboten relationship with the head of his department at the art school in Philadelphia where he used to work. She was controlling and slowly changed most of his personality and cut him off from his family. The fact that she was older and more established in the field than him gives him worries in relation to Caylor, who is also older and already has tenure. The other baggage? Well...
Dylan refers to his big shameful secret about what he did to put himself through college before revealing it to his three brothers in a very sweet "intervention" scene. I expected this to be that he stripped and/or served as a gigolo to wealthy older women. Instead his secret is that he designed and modeled for romance covers. Um, kind of lame? Not worth as much anguish as he spent on it. Funnily enough, his covers were for Melanie Mason...the pen name of Caylor, under which she wrote increasingly steamy novels and was inspired by the handsome model on the cover.
I definitely liked the book more once they got together because their whingeing before that dragged on too long. Besides their romance issues, Caylor has conflict with her irresponsible younger sister Sage and Dylan struggles with his parents's expectations and their inability to accept his art as a legitimate career path. Those stories were okay but I wanted more romance. I also would have liked more God; although finding a church is an important part of the story, I wanted to see more of each of them having a relationship with God instead of having church signify such a relationship.
The romance novel plot was interesting to me because I'm pretty sure that such inspirational romance writers as Francine Rivers and Robin Lee Hatcher wrote secular romances before switching exclusively to Christian romances in order to write cleaner novels and include mentions of God. I think Caylor is supposed to have followed the same path as them. It also makes me wonder if Dacus used to write secular romances?
Overall: An okay romance with some interesting subplots; I'm hoping the third book, Turnabout's Fair Play will be more to my taste.
Cover: Caylor's not the painter but it fits in with the pattern established by Love Remains.
Barbour, 2011
319 pages
Christian Romance
3.5/5 stars
Source: Received a free copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I did not like this book as much as Love Remains but the ending still made me a little teary-eyed as I ended up invested in the relationship of Caylor and Dylan, both of whom believe they have significant baggage.
Caylor lives with her grandmother, having moved in after the death of her grandfather to provide transportation and support. She has resigned herself to never getting involved in a relationship due to her obligation to her grandmother. Instead she celebrates Zarah and Bobby's pending marriage and throws herself into life at the college where she is tenured and into her inspirational romance novels.
Dylan has legitimate baggage and then baggage I found ridiculous. The legitimacy comes from a verboten relationship with the head of his department at the art school in Philadelphia where he used to work. She was controlling and slowly changed most of his personality and cut him off from his family. The fact that she was older and more established in the field than him gives him worries in relation to Caylor, who is also older and already has tenure. The other baggage? Well...
Dylan refers to his big shameful secret about what he did to put himself through college before revealing it to his three brothers in a very sweet "intervention" scene. I expected this to be that he stripped and/or served as a gigolo to wealthy older women. Instead his secret is that he designed and modeled for romance covers. Um, kind of lame? Not worth as much anguish as he spent on it. Funnily enough, his covers were for Melanie Mason...the pen name of Caylor, under which she wrote increasingly steamy novels and was inspired by the handsome model on the cover.
I definitely liked the book more once they got together because their whingeing before that dragged on too long. Besides their romance issues, Caylor has conflict with her irresponsible younger sister Sage and Dylan struggles with his parents's expectations and their inability to accept his art as a legitimate career path. Those stories were okay but I wanted more romance. I also would have liked more God; although finding a church is an important part of the story, I wanted to see more of each of them having a relationship with God instead of having church signify such a relationship.
The romance novel plot was interesting to me because I'm pretty sure that such inspirational romance writers as Francine Rivers and Robin Lee Hatcher wrote secular romances before switching exclusively to Christian romances in order to write cleaner novels and include mentions of God. I think Caylor is supposed to have followed the same path as them. It also makes me wonder if Dacus used to write secular romances?
Overall: An okay romance with some interesting subplots; I'm hoping the third book, Turnabout's Fair Play will be more to my taste.
Cover: Caylor's not the painter but it fits in with the pattern established by Love Remains.
August 8, 2011
If you are looking for a nice, contemporary, romantic, Christian fiction novel with an artistic flair... and meddling Grandma’s, then this is the book for you. The Art of Romance, by Kaye Dacus starts us out with 2 plotting Grandmas “Sassy” and “Perty”- don’t you love them already?- who have decided that it’s time for a little matchmaking for their respective Grandkids Caylor and Dylan. As these Grandma’s are a part of a larger group called collectively the “matchmakers” (this is Book 2 in The Matchmakers Series), Caylor and Dylan stand no chance. After all these Grandmas are in a race for Great Grandchildren!
This story involves an accomplished and Tenured English Professor and author Caylor Evans and the struggling,in more ways than one, artist Dylan Bradley. Dylan Bradley is coming off of a bad and dominating relationship with an old colleague at a former college in New York and trying to heal from his past mistakes and start over in a whole new place, his home town of Nashville, Tennessee. He is doing this by moving in with his Grandparents to try and get his life back in order. He has a lot of work to do, in terms of his relationship with God, his parents , brothers, etc., because his former relationship was incredibly toxic in his life, not exactly a time to meet someone new and start a relationship. But, in time, they do and there are many hurdles to overcome during this story. A part of the story that I really loved was one involving Dylan and his 3 brothers- they all come together via a Skype type of interlude- and I don’t want to spoil it, but- I just loved how the author incorporated that into the storyline because it is just so “now”. It turns out that Dylan is not the only one with a skeleton in his closet, it appears that Caylor has one of her own. So both of them need to be honest and have “some esplainin' to do”( Imagine Ricky Ricardo accent here).
I think that Kaye Dacus does a nice job of taking her characters on a journey where they truly do grow and change. They are not perfect people, some more flawed than others, but with God’s help trying to change and grow and become all that they are meant to be. I just think it brings hope to show the process and how they change, as opposed to,” they are perfect from the beginning and have it all together all the time”. Kaye Dacus always throws some cute humor in her characters as well, which makes it fun to read. It’s also a pretty sweet love story with just the perfect ending. So, if you’re in the mood for that sweet Contemporary Christian Romance- then I think you’ll enjoy this book. And the moral of the story- always listen to your Grandma.
Disclosure-I was graciously provided with a digital copy of “The Art of Romance” by the publisher, Barbour Books through the Netgalley program. The opinions I expressed are my own and I was not obligated to write a positive review .
This story involves an accomplished and Tenured English Professor and author Caylor Evans and the struggling,in more ways than one, artist Dylan Bradley. Dylan Bradley is coming off of a bad and dominating relationship with an old colleague at a former college in New York and trying to heal from his past mistakes and start over in a whole new place, his home town of Nashville, Tennessee. He is doing this by moving in with his Grandparents to try and get his life back in order. He has a lot of work to do, in terms of his relationship with God, his parents , brothers, etc., because his former relationship was incredibly toxic in his life, not exactly a time to meet someone new and start a relationship. But, in time, they do and there are many hurdles to overcome during this story. A part of the story that I really loved was one involving Dylan and his 3 brothers- they all come together via a Skype type of interlude- and I don’t want to spoil it, but- I just loved how the author incorporated that into the storyline because it is just so “now”. It turns out that Dylan is not the only one with a skeleton in his closet, it appears that Caylor has one of her own. So both of them need to be honest and have “some esplainin' to do”( Imagine Ricky Ricardo accent here).
I think that Kaye Dacus does a nice job of taking her characters on a journey where they truly do grow and change. They are not perfect people, some more flawed than others, but with God’s help trying to change and grow and become all that they are meant to be. I just think it brings hope to show the process and how they change, as opposed to,” they are perfect from the beginning and have it all together all the time”. Kaye Dacus always throws some cute humor in her characters as well, which makes it fun to read. It’s also a pretty sweet love story with just the perfect ending. So, if you’re in the mood for that sweet Contemporary Christian Romance- then I think you’ll enjoy this book. And the moral of the story- always listen to your Grandma.
Disclosure-I was graciously provided with a digital copy of “The Art of Romance” by the publisher, Barbour Books through the Netgalley program. The opinions I expressed are my own and I was not obligated to write a positive review .
December 26, 2011
Kaye Dacus in her new book, “The Art of Romance” Book Two in the “Matchmakers” series published by Barbour reunites us with the five grandmothers who have united to marry off their single grandchildren.
From the back cover: Misconceptions arise when the meddling matriarchs connive.
Sassy Evans and Perty Bradley are determined to get their older grandchildren married off, but when twenty-eight-year-old Dylan comes home after being fired from his teaching position because of the betrayal of his ex-girlfriend, Perty knows her grandson has more important issues to deal with first.
Sassy understands her friend’s reservations about timing, but she also sees so many ways in which Dylan would be the perfect match for her thirty-four-year-old granddaughter, Caylor. With his record of acclaimed paintings and Caylor’s bestselling novels, they could complement each other’s talents and provide each other support and encouragement. And there’s no denying the spark of attraction between the English professor with the untamed red hair and the painter with the unusual tattoos.
But neither grandmother realizes the secrets both Caylor and Dylan are keeping from each other. Will pain and embarrassment from the past keep Caylor and Dylan apart, or will they develop the courage to be truthful with each other and discover the true art of romance?
Kaye Dacus really knows how to write a wonderful story. Once again Ms. Dacus has filled the pages of “The Art of Romance” with high drama, wonderful romance and fascinating characters. It is a book about secrets as the two leads have pasts that they are trying to keep hidden to not cause embarrassment. There are the themes of family as each of the main characters works out issues with siblings and parents. There is also the theme of forgiving oneself for past mistakes so that life can move on. And, of course, there are the moments that you laugh out loud. ”The Art of Romance” is a lot of fun and I recommend this book highly. I am greatly looking forward to book three in the series.
If you missed the interview for “A Case For Love” , a different series from Kaye Dacus, and would like to listen to it and/or interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Barbour Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: Misconceptions arise when the meddling matriarchs connive.
Sassy Evans and Perty Bradley are determined to get their older grandchildren married off, but when twenty-eight-year-old Dylan comes home after being fired from his teaching position because of the betrayal of his ex-girlfriend, Perty knows her grandson has more important issues to deal with first.
Sassy understands her friend’s reservations about timing, but she also sees so many ways in which Dylan would be the perfect match for her thirty-four-year-old granddaughter, Caylor. With his record of acclaimed paintings and Caylor’s bestselling novels, they could complement each other’s talents and provide each other support and encouragement. And there’s no denying the spark of attraction between the English professor with the untamed red hair and the painter with the unusual tattoos.
But neither grandmother realizes the secrets both Caylor and Dylan are keeping from each other. Will pain and embarrassment from the past keep Caylor and Dylan apart, or will they develop the courage to be truthful with each other and discover the true art of romance?
Kaye Dacus really knows how to write a wonderful story. Once again Ms. Dacus has filled the pages of “The Art of Romance” with high drama, wonderful romance and fascinating characters. It is a book about secrets as the two leads have pasts that they are trying to keep hidden to not cause embarrassment. There are the themes of family as each of the main characters works out issues with siblings and parents. There is also the theme of forgiving oneself for past mistakes so that life can move on. And, of course, there are the moments that you laugh out loud. ”The Art of Romance” is a lot of fun and I recommend this book highly. I am greatly looking forward to book three in the series.
If you missed the interview for “A Case For Love” , a different series from Kaye Dacus, and would like to listen to it and/or interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Barbour Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
May 29, 2011
I confess that I was a bit wary of reading a novel bearing the title The Art of Romance. It is not necessarily a title that one wants to reveal to one's co-workers, who may not be acquainted with inspirational novels. In reality, Kaye Dacus's second book in the Matchmakers series is rather light on the actual romance between the two lead characters. Because both Caylor and Dylan harbor "secrets" from their pasts, much of the novel is spent with them analyzing and fighting their attraction for one another. Although both characters are instantly drawn to one another, their relationship is slow to develop. I appreciate that aspect of the plot, since I have never been fond of two characters falling instantly in love. Both Caylor and Dylan find outlets for their feelings through their respective arts. Their barriers break down slowly during the course of the novel, and their secrets are eventually revealed, allowing Caylor and Dylan to confront their feelings. Overall, I found the latter part of the second half of the novel to be the most enjoyable portion of The Art of Romance as Caylor's and Dylan's relationship comes to fruition.
The concept of the Art of Romance is unique and fresh. Dylan is a young man with a less than pristine past, emerging from a relationship with an older woman. With his shaggy hair and tattoos, Dylan is not the typical clean-cut male lead in most inspirational novels. His character definitely carries more baggage than Caylor's, whose past is only marred by writing general market romance novels. I enjoyed watching Dylan work through his issues and grow into an honest and confident man who finally feels worthy of true and pure love. The Nashville setting was also a bonus. After visiting the city several years ago, I was able to picture many of the areas Dylan and Caylor visited throughout the novel.
Dacus infuses the novel with an abundance of details that set the scenes, both significant and insignificant. The novel reminded me of recent, contemporary Hallmark movies, with an emphasis eating and activities involving food. I felt that the plethora of descriptions buried the actual plot of the novel and slowed the pace. I appreciate attention to details; but the presence, and in some cases repetition, of small details were more of a hindrance. I would have enjoyed more progression in the actual plot. However, I applaud Dacus for having the vision to imagine the most minute aspects of a scene and the small idiosyncrasies of her characters.
Although this was only a mediocre read for me personally, The Art of Romance is a well-written and well-thought out novel. Readers looking for a wholesome contemporary romance with some depth and a multitude of details will enjoy Kaye Dacus's latest novel, and her depiction of "the art of romance."
The concept of the Art of Romance is unique and fresh. Dylan is a young man with a less than pristine past, emerging from a relationship with an older woman. With his shaggy hair and tattoos, Dylan is not the typical clean-cut male lead in most inspirational novels. His character definitely carries more baggage than Caylor's, whose past is only marred by writing general market romance novels. I enjoyed watching Dylan work through his issues and grow into an honest and confident man who finally feels worthy of true and pure love. The Nashville setting was also a bonus. After visiting the city several years ago, I was able to picture many of the areas Dylan and Caylor visited throughout the novel.
Dacus infuses the novel with an abundance of details that set the scenes, both significant and insignificant. The novel reminded me of recent, contemporary Hallmark movies, with an emphasis eating and activities involving food. I felt that the plethora of descriptions buried the actual plot of the novel and slowed the pace. I appreciate attention to details; but the presence, and in some cases repetition, of small details were more of a hindrance. I would have enjoyed more progression in the actual plot. However, I applaud Dacus for having the vision to imagine the most minute aspects of a scene and the small idiosyncrasies of her characters.
Although this was only a mediocre read for me personally, The Art of Romance is a well-written and well-thought out novel. Readers looking for a wholesome contemporary romance with some depth and a multitude of details will enjoy Kaye Dacus's latest novel, and her depiction of "the art of romance."
September 26, 2011
The Art of Romance by Kaye Dacus Book 2 of the Matchmakers
Book 1: Love Remains Book 3: Turnabout's Fair Play
What an enjoyable book! Nosy grandmother's determined to be the first ones who get the prized great grandchild... but first they have to marry off their grandchildren. So why not take a grandson from Perty and add a granddaughter from Sassy and kill two birds with one stone!
At thirty-five and six foot tall Caylor Evans don't have any hope for a future love. She thought she had that ten years ago, but someone came between them. She is a Professor, Author, involved in her churches ministry and most important she moved in with her grandmother, Sassy, five years ago after Papa's death. Sassy needs her and that is good enough, or is it? When she meets the handsome grandson of her Sassy's best friend Perty she has second thoughts...
Dylan Bradley has been through the wringer. At one time he loved his art work. Doing portraits and even some book covers to work his way through college. He was a disappointment to his parents, his other three brothers were getting all kinds of degrees but Dylan enjoyed his artwork, so his parents refused to pay his college. He had left God way behind after high school although his conscience often niggled at him when he knew he did wrong. As a Professor in Philadelphia his superior was Dr. Rhonda Kramer. She took him into her world and changed his art style, clothes and than his morals when he moved in with her. When he finally realized how she was running his life, and he stood his ground, he lost his job. Now he is back in Nashville, living in his grandparents carriage house and given a list of rules to follow. At age twenty-eight he was still treated like an immature child.
This is a great story, Dylan needs to come back to the Lord and forgive himself for his past mistakes. He can't judge all women to be like Rhonda and he has to see the love his grandparents have for him and that they truly care, unlike his parents. He has been separated from the love his family and misses the close relationship he had with his brothers. He starts seeing how he let Rhonda run and ruin his life. And when he starts to heal he hopes a beautiful redhead will give him a second chance at love. Or will she run when she finds out his past secrets?
Caylor has the love of her family, although there are huge issues with her sister, Felicity who now wants to be called Sage. She has her two close friends to help her through life as well, Zarah and Flannery. And she has Sassy. Can she tell Dylan her secret from her past without losing all hope of losing any chance with him?
**Received through NetGalley for Review
Book 1: Love Remains Book 3: Turnabout's Fair Play
What an enjoyable book! Nosy grandmother's determined to be the first ones who get the prized great grandchild... but first they have to marry off their grandchildren. So why not take a grandson from Perty and add a granddaughter from Sassy and kill two birds with one stone!
At thirty-five and six foot tall Caylor Evans don't have any hope for a future love. She thought she had that ten years ago, but someone came between them. She is a Professor, Author, involved in her churches ministry and most important she moved in with her grandmother, Sassy, five years ago after Papa's death. Sassy needs her and that is good enough, or is it? When she meets the handsome grandson of her Sassy's best friend Perty she has second thoughts...
Dylan Bradley has been through the wringer. At one time he loved his art work. Doing portraits and even some book covers to work his way through college. He was a disappointment to his parents, his other three brothers were getting all kinds of degrees but Dylan enjoyed his artwork, so his parents refused to pay his college. He had left God way behind after high school although his conscience often niggled at him when he knew he did wrong. As a Professor in Philadelphia his superior was Dr. Rhonda Kramer. She took him into her world and changed his art style, clothes and than his morals when he moved in with her. When he finally realized how she was running his life, and he stood his ground, he lost his job. Now he is back in Nashville, living in his grandparents carriage house and given a list of rules to follow. At age twenty-eight he was still treated like an immature child.
This is a great story, Dylan needs to come back to the Lord and forgive himself for his past mistakes. He can't judge all women to be like Rhonda and he has to see the love his grandparents have for him and that they truly care, unlike his parents. He has been separated from the love his family and misses the close relationship he had with his brothers. He starts seeing how he let Rhonda run and ruin his life. And when he starts to heal he hopes a beautiful redhead will give him a second chance at love. Or will she run when she finds out his past secrets?
Caylor has the love of her family, although there are huge issues with her sister, Felicity who now wants to be called Sage. She has her two close friends to help her through life as well, Zarah and Flannery. And she has Sassy. Can she tell Dylan her secret from her past without losing all hope of losing any chance with him?
**Received through NetGalley for Review
May 4, 2011
Posted on Book Chelle.
In the second book of Kaye Dacus' The Matchmakers series, the grams are at it again. This time, they're meddling with Caylor Evans, granddaughter of Sassy, and Dylan Bradley, grandson of Perty. Since the race is on to marry their grandkids and have great grandbabies, Sassy and Perty try to pick up the pace on this love story. Will it work though?
English professor Dr. Caylor Evans has written books throughout her career. What few people don't know that while she writes inspirational romance novels now, her first books were steamy and under a pseudonym. What even fewer people know is that five of the six books were inspired by the model on the cover art of her books. In her busy world of teaching, being involved with the other university departments, singing in her church's choir, and being the support system for her grandmother, Sassy, would she be able to have the same romance that she writes about?
Enter Dylan Bradley. The black sheep of the accomplished Bradley family. He never felt like he belonged in his family. This prodigal son returns after an unfortunate relationship makes him lose his teaching position. He is taken in by his grandparents, Gramps and Perty, but with some conditions. No one in his family knows about the relationship, nor the details of losing his job, but this isn't the only secret he is keeping to himself. While he was trying to support himself through college, he commissioned several cover art for several romance novels.
While Caylor and Dylan attempt to take on their secrets and problems by themselves, Sassy and Perty will stop at nothing to bring these two together. They have chanced making arrangements for these two to meet, mingle, and hope that fate steps in.
I related more to this book than the previous one. Dacus introduces these two that I cannot help but love. While Caylor and Bylan have different issues, Dacus does a fantastic job by writing inspirational messages that is not too overpowering. My problem with the first book was that the messages were too strong, and it took over the book, rather than let the characters live in the moment. That is not the case in this book. The development of the characters, the storyline, and how Dacus brings everything together is magic in itself.
While I was not drawn to the first few pages, once I picked it up again, I could not put it down.
In the second book of Kaye Dacus' The Matchmakers series, the grams are at it again. This time, they're meddling with Caylor Evans, granddaughter of Sassy, and Dylan Bradley, grandson of Perty. Since the race is on to marry their grandkids and have great grandbabies, Sassy and Perty try to pick up the pace on this love story. Will it work though?
English professor Dr. Caylor Evans has written books throughout her career. What few people don't know that while she writes inspirational romance novels now, her first books were steamy and under a pseudonym. What even fewer people know is that five of the six books were inspired by the model on the cover art of her books. In her busy world of teaching, being involved with the other university departments, singing in her church's choir, and being the support system for her grandmother, Sassy, would she be able to have the same romance that she writes about?
Enter Dylan Bradley. The black sheep of the accomplished Bradley family. He never felt like he belonged in his family. This prodigal son returns after an unfortunate relationship makes him lose his teaching position. He is taken in by his grandparents, Gramps and Perty, but with some conditions. No one in his family knows about the relationship, nor the details of losing his job, but this isn't the only secret he is keeping to himself. While he was trying to support himself through college, he commissioned several cover art for several romance novels.
While Caylor and Dylan attempt to take on their secrets and problems by themselves, Sassy and Perty will stop at nothing to bring these two together. They have chanced making arrangements for these two to meet, mingle, and hope that fate steps in.
I related more to this book than the previous one. Dacus introduces these two that I cannot help but love. While Caylor and Bylan have different issues, Dacus does a fantastic job by writing inspirational messages that is not too overpowering. My problem with the first book was that the messages were too strong, and it took over the book, rather than let the characters live in the moment. That is not the case in this book. The development of the characters, the storyline, and how Dacus brings everything together is magic in itself.
While I was not drawn to the first few pages, once I picked it up again, I could not put it down.
July 7, 2011
Dylan Bradley got into a sticky situation at the art school in Philly where he formally taught. So now, he’s trying to get back onto his feet, by staying in his grandparents garage apartment. But his secret about losing his job isn’t his only secret. We all have to find a way to help us pay for college right? Well, Dylan made some good money with what he did, but now, it’s not something he’s very proud of.
Cue Caylor Evans. Caylor moved in with her grandma five years ago once she started losing her eyesight and couldn’t drive anymore. Caylor has put her social life on hold, but has been working her butt off as a tenured professor and writing romance novels. But Caylor also has a deep, dark secret that only a handful of people know about.
Like all secrets, Dylan’s and Caylor’s will eventually come out and the secret they are trying to keep from each other may just be the one connection to bring them together.
The plot of the Matchmakers Series is a group of grandmothers in a contest to see who can marry off their grandchildren first. In the first book, Bobby and Zarah picked up where they left off 14 years ago, but will the grandmas be able to bring Caylor and Dylan together without pushing them too much?
I got these books from NetGalley. The only reason I read the first one was because it was about a book editor. I didn’t realize it as I started, but Dacus is a Christian fiction writer. Once this was realized, I was afraid it was going to be too much and I would not like the book. But it actually did the opposite. There’s just enough Christian undertones to get me thinking about things, not too much to be preachy.
One of the things I love most about these books is that I feel like I learn from them. It’s no surprise to my blog buddies that I am an aspiring author. In the first book, I feel like I learned a lot about the publishing world from Zarah. In this book, I got a behind the scenes peek at an author’s life, where she gets her inspiration from, how she builds her characters and how she juggles writing with a full time job. I think that was more inspirational for me than the anything.
Dacus has created a wonderful series with a group of characters that make me want to move to Tennessee and be their friends. I’ve grown very attached to this series and can’t wait to see where the next one goes. Maybe there will be a fourth, with a look at all the weddings! That would be a dream book!
I give The Art of Romance 5 bookmarks.
Cue Caylor Evans. Caylor moved in with her grandma five years ago once she started losing her eyesight and couldn’t drive anymore. Caylor has put her social life on hold, but has been working her butt off as a tenured professor and writing romance novels. But Caylor also has a deep, dark secret that only a handful of people know about.
Like all secrets, Dylan’s and Caylor’s will eventually come out and the secret they are trying to keep from each other may just be the one connection to bring them together.
The plot of the Matchmakers Series is a group of grandmothers in a contest to see who can marry off their grandchildren first. In the first book, Bobby and Zarah picked up where they left off 14 years ago, but will the grandmas be able to bring Caylor and Dylan together without pushing them too much?
I got these books from NetGalley. The only reason I read the first one was because it was about a book editor. I didn’t realize it as I started, but Dacus is a Christian fiction writer. Once this was realized, I was afraid it was going to be too much and I would not like the book. But it actually did the opposite. There’s just enough Christian undertones to get me thinking about things, not too much to be preachy.
One of the things I love most about these books is that I feel like I learn from them. It’s no surprise to my blog buddies that I am an aspiring author. In the first book, I feel like I learned a lot about the publishing world from Zarah. In this book, I got a behind the scenes peek at an author’s life, where she gets her inspiration from, how she builds her characters and how she juggles writing with a full time job. I think that was more inspirational for me than the anything.
Dacus has created a wonderful series with a group of characters that make me want to move to Tennessee and be their friends. I’ve grown very attached to this series and can’t wait to see where the next one goes. Maybe there will be a fourth, with a look at all the weddings! That would be a dream book!
I give The Art of Romance 5 bookmarks.
May 23, 2011
The Art of Romance by Kaye Dacus is a humorous story about two matriarchal match-makers. It’s a wonderful romance story, but not the gushy, unrealistic type. It's based on real issues that are current to today's culture.
Dylan has been fired from his position as an art professor due to a betrayal by his ex-girlfriend and colleague, is currently unemployed and living in his grandparents' loft in their old carriage house, and is definitely not ready for a new relationship. When he moves back to his home town, there are rules behind his living with his grandparents, and he tries to abide by them.
Caylor is a tenured English professor and established romance writer who lives with her grandmother, escorting her to events and shopping after her husband passed away. Due to her living arrangements and a past relationship, she, too, is not in any hurry to get married.
Sassy Evans and Perty Bradley have different plans for Dylan and Caylor. However, they don't know the painful and embarrassing secrets both Dylan and Caylor are hiding.
This is my first book by Kaye, and it was an absolutely delightful read. The issues she brings about are so relevant for today's culture. She paces the drama and character information in a manner that keeps the pages flying. The romantic sparks and conversations between Dylan and Caylor are very realistic--the shyness of flirting without trying to overdo or pushing the relationship. The age factor comes into play as well, which society relates to differently. That issue is handled very well, whether you agree or disagree.
The relationships of friends and siblings really touched my heart, especially those of Dylan's. You’ll find that love, trust and faith in each other and God are the building blocks of the relationships and marriages, young and old, with a few exceptions.
For a fun read about conniving matriarchs and the hearts of two broken people being mended, this is a book you will not want to miss. But don’t be fooled, this book is not a simple plot of boy meets girl.
This book was provided by the author in exchange for my honest review. My gracious thanks for a delightful read!
Dylan has been fired from his position as an art professor due to a betrayal by his ex-girlfriend and colleague, is currently unemployed and living in his grandparents' loft in their old carriage house, and is definitely not ready for a new relationship. When he moves back to his home town, there are rules behind his living with his grandparents, and he tries to abide by them.
Caylor is a tenured English professor and established romance writer who lives with her grandmother, escorting her to events and shopping after her husband passed away. Due to her living arrangements and a past relationship, she, too, is not in any hurry to get married.
Sassy Evans and Perty Bradley have different plans for Dylan and Caylor. However, they don't know the painful and embarrassing secrets both Dylan and Caylor are hiding.
This is my first book by Kaye, and it was an absolutely delightful read. The issues she brings about are so relevant for today's culture. She paces the drama and character information in a manner that keeps the pages flying. The romantic sparks and conversations between Dylan and Caylor are very realistic--the shyness of flirting without trying to overdo or pushing the relationship. The age factor comes into play as well, which society relates to differently. That issue is handled very well, whether you agree or disagree.
The relationships of friends and siblings really touched my heart, especially those of Dylan's. You’ll find that love, trust and faith in each other and God are the building blocks of the relationships and marriages, young and old, with a few exceptions.
For a fun read about conniving matriarchs and the hearts of two broken people being mended, this is a book you will not want to miss. But don’t be fooled, this book is not a simple plot of boy meets girl.
This book was provided by the author in exchange for my honest review. My gracious thanks for a delightful read!
June 23, 2011
4 out of 5 stars
If you are a fan of "fluff" romance than The Art of Romance probably isn't what you're looking for but if you like your books to feature realistic heroines with well-researched storylines I highly suggest picking up a Kaye Dacus novel. Having read all of her previous contemporary romances it's safe to say that she's got the smart, independent, educated lead down pat. There are no "too dumb to function" heroines to be found and yet they are not without flaws.
In this, the second installment of the Matchmakers series, we once again meet Caylor Evans, a thirty-something English professor by day and romance writer by night and struggling artist, Dylan Bradley. Neither Caylor or Dylan are looking for a relationship, Caylor having to take care of her aging grandmother and Dylan having just left a disastrous relationship with a former colleague, but God and grandmas are a team that will not be thwarted. Where Love Remains didn't include a lot from the meddling grandmas, this book more than made up for it. From setting up a "fantastic" kitchen remodel to painting daisies in an art class for seniors Sassy and Perty were unstoppable and I loved them. If anyone knows about grannies concerned for their still single grandkids, it's me and these two matriarchs were right on target.
As much as I loved the Sassy, Perty, and Caylor, Dylan wasn't my favorite hero. I definitely liked him towards the end of the book when he learned to be a little more assertive. I guess I am so used to the big, strong, alpha male heroes that Dylan came as a bit of a shock allowing his ex-girlfriend and his family to have so much control in his life. Not only was he a bit diffident but also a lot younger than Caylor. That said, I really appreciated Ms. Dacus breaking the mold so to speak with this story and making it reflect modern day trends, I just have to get used to it I think! Altogether, The Art of Romance is a terrific book and perfect for today's Christian reader.
If you are a fan of "fluff" romance than The Art of Romance probably isn't what you're looking for but if you like your books to feature realistic heroines with well-researched storylines I highly suggest picking up a Kaye Dacus novel. Having read all of her previous contemporary romances it's safe to say that she's got the smart, independent, educated lead down pat. There are no "too dumb to function" heroines to be found and yet they are not without flaws.
In this, the second installment of the Matchmakers series, we once again meet Caylor Evans, a thirty-something English professor by day and romance writer by night and struggling artist, Dylan Bradley. Neither Caylor or Dylan are looking for a relationship, Caylor having to take care of her aging grandmother and Dylan having just left a disastrous relationship with a former colleague, but God and grandmas are a team that will not be thwarted. Where Love Remains didn't include a lot from the meddling grandmas, this book more than made up for it. From setting up a "fantastic" kitchen remodel to painting daisies in an art class for seniors Sassy and Perty were unstoppable and I loved them. If anyone knows about grannies concerned for their still single grandkids, it's me and these two matriarchs were right on target.
As much as I loved the Sassy, Perty, and Caylor, Dylan wasn't my favorite hero. I definitely liked him towards the end of the book when he learned to be a little more assertive. I guess I am so used to the big, strong, alpha male heroes that Dylan came as a bit of a shock allowing his ex-girlfriend and his family to have so much control in his life. Not only was he a bit diffident but also a lot younger than Caylor. That said, I really appreciated Ms. Dacus breaking the mold so to speak with this story and making it reflect modern day trends, I just have to get used to it I think! Altogether, The Art of Romance is a terrific book and perfect for today's Christian reader.
July 21, 2011
Title: THE ART OF ROMANCE
Author: Kaye Dacus
Publisher: Barbour Books
May 2011
ISBN: 978-1-60260-990-7
Genre: Inspirational/contemporary romance
The matchmakers are determined to have grandbabies before a certain member of their peers, but in order to do that, first they must get their grandchildren married off. Two of them have managed to get their grandchildren engaged, but are having a hard time getting them to the altar. So now Sassy Evans and Perty Bradley are trying their hands at matching up their grandchildren, both professors at a college in Nashville.
Caylor is thirty-four years old and teaches English at the college. She is also a published author and is juggling her writing career and her teaching career as well as caring for her widowed grandmother, Sassy. She doesn’t believe she’ll ever marry.
Dylan is only twenty-eight, and he’s recently come out of a worldly relationship that cost him his teaching job at another university. He’s attracted to the lovely Caylor, but keeps finding himself in uncomfortable positions around her.
Both Dylan and Caylor have secrets that could ruin any chance of happiness between them. What will it take for them to find the courage to face their pasts to open up the door to the future?
THE ART OF ROMANCE is the second book in Ms. Dacus’ Matchmakers series, but it easily stands alone. However, readers might want to read the first book to learn about Caylor’s friend, Zarah’s relationship.
Ms. Dacus writes about young professionals struggling to balance careers and relationships, a combination that isn’t always easy. If you are looking for a good contemporary romance then THE ART OF ROMANCE is a good book to consider. 320 pages. $12.99.
Author: Kaye Dacus
Publisher: Barbour Books
May 2011
ISBN: 978-1-60260-990-7
Genre: Inspirational/contemporary romance
The matchmakers are determined to have grandbabies before a certain member of their peers, but in order to do that, first they must get their grandchildren married off. Two of them have managed to get their grandchildren engaged, but are having a hard time getting them to the altar. So now Sassy Evans and Perty Bradley are trying their hands at matching up their grandchildren, both professors at a college in Nashville.
Caylor is thirty-four years old and teaches English at the college. She is also a published author and is juggling her writing career and her teaching career as well as caring for her widowed grandmother, Sassy. She doesn’t believe she’ll ever marry.
Dylan is only twenty-eight, and he’s recently come out of a worldly relationship that cost him his teaching job at another university. He’s attracted to the lovely Caylor, but keeps finding himself in uncomfortable positions around her.
Both Dylan and Caylor have secrets that could ruin any chance of happiness between them. What will it take for them to find the courage to face their pasts to open up the door to the future?
THE ART OF ROMANCE is the second book in Ms. Dacus’ Matchmakers series, but it easily stands alone. However, readers might want to read the first book to learn about Caylor’s friend, Zarah’s relationship.
Ms. Dacus writes about young professionals struggling to balance careers and relationships, a combination that isn’t always easy. If you are looking for a good contemporary romance then THE ART OF ROMANCE is a good book to consider. 320 pages. $12.99.
February 13, 2016
See my profile for my star reviewing system.
Thank you to Barbour Publishing for providing me with a digital copy of this book for review.
Isn’t it interesting when you suddenly notice a reoccurring theme? I was recently in Italy, reading about the artist Titian and suddenly I am finding Italian connections everywhere I look. The Art of Romance, L’Arte del Romanzo, was no exception.
In this novel an English professor and an art teacher (with a love for Italian Renaissance art) discover the many ways that their lives overlap. With both hiding secrets from their past, will they be able to overcome their insecurities, break free from the limitations that they have come to believe about themselves and learn to love?
I enjoyed the story, but I must admit I was put off by the number of characters all introduced at once in the early chapters of the book. (I suppose that it wouldn't have been an issue if I had read book one in the series). When I was finally able to sort everyone out, it still took me awhile to warm up to the main characters Dylan and Caylor.
I thought, however, that Dylan and Caylor’s characters were very well developed through the course of the novel and that The Art of Romance was complete in it's own right without having to read the rest of the series . While I personally would have preferred a little less time and focus given over to the descriptions of food included in the tale, I found the struggles and successes in the lives of the characters to be real and engaging. All in all, The Art of Romance was a good story of finding forgiveness and the grace to live and love.
I'd recommend it, especially to anyone with a passion for writing or art.
Thank you to Barbour Publishing for providing me with a digital copy of this book for review.
Isn’t it interesting when you suddenly notice a reoccurring theme? I was recently in Italy, reading about the artist Titian and suddenly I am finding Italian connections everywhere I look. The Art of Romance, L’Arte del Romanzo, was no exception.
In this novel an English professor and an art teacher (with a love for Italian Renaissance art) discover the many ways that their lives overlap. With both hiding secrets from their past, will they be able to overcome their insecurities, break free from the limitations that they have come to believe about themselves and learn to love?
I enjoyed the story, but I must admit I was put off by the number of characters all introduced at once in the early chapters of the book. (I suppose that it wouldn't have been an issue if I had read book one in the series). When I was finally able to sort everyone out, it still took me awhile to warm up to the main characters Dylan and Caylor.
I thought, however, that Dylan and Caylor’s characters were very well developed through the course of the novel and that The Art of Romance was complete in it's own right without having to read the rest of the series . While I personally would have preferred a little less time and focus given over to the descriptions of food included in the tale, I found the struggles and successes in the lives of the characters to be real and engaging. All in all, The Art of Romance was a good story of finding forgiveness and the grace to live and love.
I'd recommend it, especially to anyone with a passion for writing or art.
May 5, 2011
Kaye Dacus did a marvelous job in creating an aura of mystery surrounding Dylan Bradley and Caylor Evans. Reading THE ART OF ROMANCE was enjoyable as little bits about the characters of Dylan and Caylor are slowly unfolded throughout the book. Just as it seems that a reader knows everything that needs to be known about Dylan and Caylor, a surprising event happens and the plot takes another twist.
But, some scenes in the book seemed over-narrated and certain descriptions are only understandable to those living in United States. For example, the scene in which Caylor decides to take a certain highway route might be confusing to those not living in Tennessee or United States.
THE ART OF ROMANCE is the second book is the Matchmakers Series. Many helpful hints and explanations were given when issues touched in the first book, Love Remains, were dealt with in THE ART OF ROMANCE and I did not need to refer back to Love Remains for more information.
I found THE ART OF ROMANCE a thought-provoking read as it touches on the issue of an age gap between partners in a relationship, especially when it is the female character being older than the male character. Although I am not an avid fan of relationships whereby the female character is older than the male character, reading THE ART OF ROMANCE has been a pleasant experience for me as the grammar and descriptions were good. There is a third book in the Matchmakers Series, TURNABOUT'S FAIR PLAY, and I am looking forward to reading it.
But, some scenes in the book seemed over-narrated and certain descriptions are only understandable to those living in United States. For example, the scene in which Caylor decides to take a certain highway route might be confusing to those not living in Tennessee or United States.
THE ART OF ROMANCE is the second book is the Matchmakers Series. Many helpful hints and explanations were given when issues touched in the first book, Love Remains, were dealt with in THE ART OF ROMANCE and I did not need to refer back to Love Remains for more information.
I found THE ART OF ROMANCE a thought-provoking read as it touches on the issue of an age gap between partners in a relationship, especially when it is the female character being older than the male character. Although I am not an avid fan of relationships whereby the female character is older than the male character, reading THE ART OF ROMANCE has been a pleasant experience for me as the grammar and descriptions were good. There is a third book in the Matchmakers Series, TURNABOUT'S FAIR PLAY, and I am looking forward to reading it.
March 3, 2012
Beautiful professor Caylor Evans has a secret identity - she's a romance writer known as Melanie Mason. With gorgeous cover models as her muse, she can't keep the stories from pouring out. Little does she know that the amazing illustrator of the covers isn't who she thinks he is. When she first meets handsome artist and new teacher at her college Dylan Bradley - something seems familiar but she just can't quite place it.
With all the secrets, will Dylan and Caylor be able to learn to accept one another for who they really are?
A certain meddling Grandmother is determined to find Caylor a man, she decides it's time to renovate their home. With everything in mind, she finds a sexy, young contractor that might catch a certain granddaughter's eye. Little does she know, that Caylor has other plans in mind.
I really enjoyed the second book in the Matchmaker's series. We get to know Caylor, best friend to the main character in "Love Remains" - who is now getting married. This is causing some major inner turmoil with Caylor, she's not sure how to deal with all of it. On top of all that, she's falling for Dylan who has some pretty major issues of his own. Can they work through all these and admit they are falling for one another? Or will it push them farther apart?
One of the things I really love about this author, is how she weaves so many lives into one great story. Each character is fun, well written and relate-able. They all have inner turmoils, problems, family issues, sibling rivalry, which I found amazing.
I can't wait for more by this author!
With all the secrets, will Dylan and Caylor be able to learn to accept one another for who they really are?
A certain meddling Grandmother is determined to find Caylor a man, she decides it's time to renovate their home. With everything in mind, she finds a sexy, young contractor that might catch a certain granddaughter's eye. Little does she know, that Caylor has other plans in mind.
I really enjoyed the second book in the Matchmaker's series. We get to know Caylor, best friend to the main character in "Love Remains" - who is now getting married. This is causing some major inner turmoil with Caylor, she's not sure how to deal with all of it. On top of all that, she's falling for Dylan who has some pretty major issues of his own. Can they work through all these and admit they are falling for one another? Or will it push them farther apart?
One of the things I really love about this author, is how she weaves so many lives into one great story. Each character is fun, well written and relate-able. They all have inner turmoils, problems, family issues, sibling rivalry, which I found amazing.
I can't wait for more by this author!
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