I forgot how much I like Maya Rodale’s writing. I’ve never really liked American-set historical. I’m still not a fan, but I wasn’t bothered by it.
This is a second chance romance which is one of my favorite tropes. There’s also a class-differences aspect which I also like reading. Oftentimes second chance romance will have a “past and present” set up. I like that and seeing the first falling in love along with the second. This story didn’t have that and I definitely missed it. I still believe Wes and Bea’s romance, but I would’ve liked more. They have good chemistry that was well-paced.
Bea is a very strong and independent woman, but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t experience self-doubt. This is influenced by how people have spoken to her and treated her. That felt very natural and believable. But sometimes the story felt like an agenda. Ms. Rodale based a lot of her characters and plot points on real people and events. That’s awesome and a lot of woman historically were overlooked. But it felt like a huge PSA. You can have a valid message, but I don’t like feeling like I’m being preached to.
I liked being in the world of department stores. It really is a fascinating thing in history. Wes and Beatrice are so passionate and involved in their stores. It was so natural for them and I love a competent character. I especially liked when they talked about their stores with each other. Mutual respect is sexy.
Thanks for reading!
Holly