Romance & Reality

Author: J.T. Geissinger

Publisher: J.T. Geissinger, Inc.

Publish Date: September 28, 2023

Pages: 364

Rating: 3/5

Spice: 3/5

Genres: morally gray, smut, dark romance, contemporary romance, workplace romance, fiction

Content Warnings: grief, emotional trauma, domestic violence, date rape attempt, sexual content

I must say this novel was not as much as an emotional, never-ending plot twisting roller coaster as the previous two novels I’ve read by this author. But it did not disappoint me whatsoever. In fact, I believe I read this book quicker than the rest of the books I’ve read over the past few months. It smoothly drew me in without me even noticing how deep I was hooked. This was the perfect selection for Valentine’s season. The intensity of the book was calm and controlled and I enjoyed the wittiness and romance shared between the main characters.

As the book described, Cole (MMC) was indeed ruthless, arrogant and ice cold. However, that didn’t stop Shay (FMC) from melting his iceberg of a heart. She was truly the fire to his ice. What started out as flaming hot one-night stand evolved into something neither one of them expected.

One thing I’ve enjoyed thus far from Geissinger’s work is how she promotes awareness of social issues through the perceived darkness of her characters. Some of the issues that stood out to me in this piece were domestic violence, date rape and sexual assault. Her way of weaving social issues into the actions and motives of the characters highlights her creative distinction as a writer, in my opinion.

While I was in favor of Shay and Cole becoming an item, I must say, Cole really grinded my gears with his indecisiveness. It reminded me of dating experiences from my early twenties at times. Cole kind of came off as an immature guy who had no idea what he wanted and was afraid of being loved by a soft, yet fearless woman. However, as I read further, I grew to understand his reservations in allowing himself to accept the fall… somewhat, lol.

Overall, I’d say this book is the perfect read if you’re craving an inseparable love, warm romance sort of vibe. It’s a moderately spiced read, but it’s certainly not bland, that’s for sure. Also, I was pleasantly drawn to the book cover. It’s the perfect visual for the contents of the story. But then again, roses are my favorite flowers so I’m pretty biased here. They say not to judge a book by it’s cover, but when it comes to my books, I definitely judge… and I’m not ashamed. Haha!