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lololovesthings's review against another edition
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
4 stars!
TJ Alexander is one of my favorite authors, so I was excited to read "Triple Sec." It didn't disappoint! I thoroughly enjoyed this F/F/NB romance book. I feel like I learned a lot about the poly lifestyle I wasn't aware of before reading this book. I now realize that there is more honesty and open communication involved than I had previously thought, complete with mutual written agreements and frequent check-ins between all parties concerned. Rules for the relationship are written out ahead of time and are frequently updated and changed as the situation evolves and grows between the main characters, Mel, Bebe, and her wife Kade. I found myself drawn to each of these three characters for different reasons, both individually and while they are together. Mel is passionate about her job as a bartender. It's not just about a bar job for her: mixology is her passion, what makes her soul feel alive. She is divorced and a bit jaded in love. When Bebe walks into her life, all of that changes as their connection is instant, the chemistry between them palpable. Then, Bebe's wife Kade walks into the bar, and Mel's hopes are dashed. Still, she sees this as an opportunity to make friends and takes them up on their brunch offer. Imagine Mel's surprise when Bebe asks her to join their poly relationship. At first, Bebe asks Mel to be her girlfriend. Eventually, over time, Kade joins in the mix. I found myself drawn to these characters as each of them grows during their time together in their own way. The book explores more than just what a poly relationship is like. It explores the notion of gender fluidity, radical acceptance, and monogamy and heterosexuality as the "standard." Mel challenges her definition of "love" and what a"relationship" is, finding it much broader than she initially thought. The steam in this book is sooooo delicious! I laughed quite a bit at the banter between these three characters as well. Overall, a well-written, thoughtful, sexy, boozy delight!
Thank you to NetGalley, TJ Alexander, Atria Books, and Atria/Emily Bestler Books for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
TJ Alexander is one of my favorite authors, so I was excited to read "Triple Sec." It didn't disappoint! I thoroughly enjoyed this F/F/NB romance book. I feel like I learned a lot about the poly lifestyle I wasn't aware of before reading this book. I now realize that there is more honesty and open communication involved than I had previously thought, complete with mutual written agreements and frequent check-ins between all parties concerned. Rules for the relationship are written out ahead of time and are frequently updated and changed as the situation evolves and grows between the main characters, Mel, Bebe, and her wife Kade. I found myself drawn to each of these three characters for different reasons, both individually and while they are together. Mel is passionate about her job as a bartender. It's not just about a bar job for her: mixology is her passion, what makes her soul feel alive. She is divorced and a bit jaded in love. When Bebe walks into her life, all of that changes as their connection is instant, the chemistry between them palpable. Then, Bebe's wife Kade walks into the bar, and Mel's hopes are dashed. Still, she sees this as an opportunity to make friends and takes them up on their brunch offer. Imagine Mel's surprise when Bebe asks her to join their poly relationship. At first, Bebe asks Mel to be her girlfriend. Eventually, over time, Kade joins in the mix. I found myself drawn to these characters as each of them grows during their time together in their own way. The book explores more than just what a poly relationship is like. It explores the notion of gender fluidity, radical acceptance, and monogamy and heterosexuality as the "standard." Mel challenges her definition of "love" and what a"relationship" is, finding it much broader than she initially thought. The steam in this book is sooooo delicious! I laughed quite a bit at the banter between these three characters as well. Overall, a well-written, thoughtful, sexy, boozy delight!
Thank you to NetGalley, TJ Alexander, Atria Books, and Atria/Emily Bestler Books for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcohol
Moderate: Transphobia, Ableism, and Homophobia
frankijace's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Rating: 5/5 stars
I received an ARC of this book in a trade.
This is my first time reading a book about a polyamorous group that was written by someone who openly identifies as queer. And let me tell you, this author did not disappoint. In fact, far from it - I wish I could give 6 stars. This is currently one of my favorite reads of 2024 so far. I don't know if people understand how important GOOD representation of polyamory is, and how hard it is to find. Not only how the dynamics work, but how it's okay to be figuring it out as you go. This book normalizes that sexuality is ever fluid and changing, even in your 30's and later. I definitely recommend this book for the laughs, the hope, and the representation alone.
I received an ARC of this book in a trade.
This is my first time reading a book about a polyamorous group that was written by someone who openly identifies as queer. And let me tell you, this author did not disappoint. In fact, far from it - I wish I could give 6 stars. This is currently one of my favorite reads of 2024 so far. I don't know if people understand how important GOOD representation of polyamory is, and how hard it is to find. Not only how the dynamics work, but how it's okay to be figuring it out as you go. This book normalizes that sexuality is ever fluid and changing, even in your 30's and later. I definitely recommend this book for the laughs, the hope, and the representation alone.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Transphobia, Homophobia, Ableism, and Sexual content
Moderate: Cursing
Misgenderingsdupont's review against another edition
emotional
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
This book will have you wanting to grab a nice cold cocktail while you read. I enjoyed this book, it was a fun and light quick read. I liked the dynamics between Mel, Kade, and Bebe. This book did leave me wanting more though, I wish there was a little more emotional depth on the page (and a few more spicy scenes because the ones that were in the book were fab). This is a great book for people wanting to dive into their first book involving a polyamorous relationship. I think fans of Love & Other Disasters by Anita Kelly would enjoy this one.
*I received the ARC for free from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
*I received the ARC for free from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
Content Warnings
Moderate: Transphobia and Homophobia
Minor: Ableism
bookishmillennial's review against another edition
emotional
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
disclaimer: I don’t really give starred reviews. I hope my reviews provide enough information to let you know if a book is for you or not. Find me here: https://linktr.ee/bookishmillennial
This book revolves around Mel, a mixologist with hopes of contributing new additions to the bar menu, but is continually stifled by her loser supervisors. She meets extroverted and super friendly Bebe, and shortly after, meets Bebe’s nonbinary wife, Kade. Bebe eventually reveals her and Kade are polyamorous, and Bebe wants to go on a date with Mel. Mel has been processing her own trauma of getting divorced from her ex wife Lynn, which made her a bit averse to dating and romance.
Mel only agrees to date Bebe if they can set some ground rules, and it is veryyyy reminiscent of A Walk to Remember’s iconic line from Jamie: “You have to promise you wont fall in love with me.” This book explores their budding romance, and Mel’s preparation for a mixology competition, where the grand prize is $200k. That would be an absolute dream, because it would pave the way for Mel to open her own bar.
I have no lived experience with polyamory, but I felt that TJ Alexander wrote this story with so much curiosity, care and love. The concerns and uncertainty that Mel feels in navigating this brand new type of partnership were so understandable, and since I have no experience, I felt I was alongside Mel learning and figuring it out!
I loved that Mel, Bebe, and Kade were all so different, yet complemented each other in contrasting ways. Mel was protective, empathetic, and generous. Bebe was outgoing, confident, amiable, and charismatic. Kade was intense, pensive, and artistic. Together, they were passionate, ambitious, supportive, and affirming. I loved these bbs so much!
Also, the snowed-in trope just about had me squealing. TJ Alexander writes the most delectably steamy, swoon-worthy romances, & if they were a drink at a bar, I’d simply say, “Pour me another!” (Please)
Steam rating: 3.5 out of 5 — the first rooftop bar scene had me 🥵
This book revolves around Mel, a mixologist with hopes of contributing new additions to the bar menu, but is continually stifled by her loser supervisors. She meets extroverted and super friendly Bebe, and shortly after, meets Bebe’s nonbinary wife, Kade. Bebe eventually reveals her and Kade are polyamorous, and Bebe wants to go on a date with Mel. Mel has been processing her own trauma of getting divorced from her ex wife Lynn, which made her a bit averse to dating and romance.
Mel only agrees to date Bebe if they can set some ground rules, and it is veryyyy reminiscent of A Walk to Remember’s iconic line from Jamie: “You have to promise you wont fall in love with me.” This book explores their budding romance, and Mel’s preparation for a mixology competition, where the grand prize is $200k. That would be an absolute dream, because it would pave the way for Mel to open her own bar.
I have no lived experience with polyamory, but I felt that TJ Alexander wrote this story with so much curiosity, care and love. The concerns and uncertainty that Mel feels in navigating this brand new type of partnership were so understandable, and since I have no experience, I felt I was alongside Mel learning and figuring it out!
I loved that Mel, Bebe, and Kade were all so different, yet complemented each other in contrasting ways. Mel was protective, empathetic, and generous. Bebe was outgoing, confident, amiable, and charismatic. Kade was intense, pensive, and artistic. Together, they were passionate, ambitious, supportive, and affirming. I loved these bbs so much!
Also, the snowed-in trope just about had me squealing. TJ Alexander writes the most delectably steamy, swoon-worthy romances, & if they were a drink at a bar, I’d simply say, “Pour me another!” (Please)
Steam rating: 3.5 out of 5 — the first rooftop bar scene had me 🥵
Content Warnings
Graphic: Transphobia, Alcohol, Cursing, and Sexual content
Moderate: Ableism and Homophobia
just_one_more_paige's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
I've been really exploring poly relationships in fiction lately. The idea really appeals to me, emotionally and relationally. And the variety of ways these relationships can look, the different styles of love, is fascinating. I mean, if we are being honest, who doesn't want deep connections and support with more people? And the chance to "share the load" (as it were - sorry for the LOTR reference, iykyk - I can't help it) as needed. Anyways, the point is, from my perspective: big yes to poly love. So, I was super excited to start seeing bookstagram posts about this book, a legit main-stream romance publication featuring a poly threesome. When I saw it being offered on NetGalley as an eArc I jumped on it so fast - and was hype to have been granted access.
Mel is a bartender at Terror & Virtue, a swanky New York City cocktail. And that's pretty much her life, as her recovery from divorce has been...not going well. But, that all changes when Bebe walks into the bar. They have an instant connection that Mel decides to take a gamble on, when Bebe offers to take her on a date, since she and her wife, Kade, have an open marriage. Things progress pretty quickly, emotionally and physically, and quite soon, Mel finds herself in over her head (or at least, that's what it feels like) with Bebe. And not just with Bebe. Despite thinking Kade hated her, it turns out, they just express themselves in a much more subdued way. And the attraction/connection between Mel and Kade morphs into something greater as well. So, of course, then all three must figure out how they fit together in a way that works for each/all. At the same time, Mel is facing some low-key terrible workplace admin changes and enters a cocktail competition that has the potential to completely change her future. Honestly there are a lot of things going on that could completely change Mel's life...and all for the better, if she can figure them out. Fingers crossed.
Alright y'all. It is with a *very* heavy heart that I say: I have extremely mixed feelings on this book. Now, to be fair, there is a chance I had really built it up in my head before starting, because I was so excited about it, and therefore my expectations were too high. Like, that's totally possible. And yet...here I am, heartbroken that I didn't just all out love it. Now, give me a chance to explain my feelings through this review to decide to give it a try (or not) yourself, because my reactions were so mixed, that if the things I did love (the plot, the pacing, the writing) appeal to you, then I would absolutely suggest giving it a go. Because maybe what I didn't love (the chemistry) was a me problem and wouldn't affect you in the slightest.
Alright y'all. It is with a *very* heavy heart that I say: I have extremely mixed feelings on this book. Now, to be fair, there is a chance I had really built it up in my head before starting, because I was so excited about it, and therefore my expectations were too high. Like, that's totally possible. And yet...here I am, heartbroken that I didn't just all out love it. Now, give me a chance to explain my feelings through this review to decide to give it a try (or not) yourself, because my reactions were so mixed, that if the things I did love (the plot, the pacing, the writing) appeal to you, then I would absolutely suggest giving it a go. Because maybe what I didn't love (the chemistry) was a me problem and wouldn't affect you in the slightest.
So, the things I loved. The setup was great. Mel as a bartender, the cocktail competition, her life plans, her relationship with her roomie/coworker/bestie Daniel, etc. I enjoyed some of the tropes too, like Mel and Kade getting snowed in together. I was super into all the art (and the inclusive look at what "counts" as art) and all the tattoos. The spicy scenes were few, but they were diverse (as far as preferences/light kinks), and well written. Towards the end, when Mel (finally) faces and gets closure with her ex-wife, I loved that it was satisfyingly "take that," but also mature. And, of course, I loved the poly relationship that was central: the complexity of figuring out what that means for each involved party and how there is no prescription for how to be poly; it's as varied and diverse as the people in the relationship. Beautiful and accepting and heart-filling. And just really, the general plot and pacing and storytelling were all smooth and compelling.
The things I wasn't as into. Or, to be most clear, the one thing that was also big enough that it affected everything: the chemistry. I honestly never bought into Mel and Bebe and Kade. And to be clear, because I want to be very clear about this, it's not because it's queer and poly. I honestly couldn't really buy into any of the paired off combinations either. I felt the Bebe/Mel spark right away, but it fizzled quickly for me and never came back. I feel like there was a lot of telling me the characters were attracted to each other and cared for each other. And if I'm being honest, quite a few times their actions absolutely followed that up. But the depth of believability in their connections - especially the deeper emotional ones, which are personally super important as far as investment in their outcomes - just never clicked for me. Maybe it's because it's told from Mel's perspective, and she's the one that's a little walled off, unsure if she's good enough/can handle the situation, spending all her time questioning, to such an extreme that, when she finally "gives in," as it were, it didn't feel right. Too fast of a switch? Maybe not enough reasoning why? And since she wasn't super impulsive prior, it just felt off. I mean, all her choices prove she's emotionally involved, and wants it all...so I don't know why I didn't feel it when she finally decided with her brain to follow what her heart was already doing. But the plain truth is, I didn't. As a small addition to this, I felt like the socioeconomic differences between Mel and Bebe/Kade were defensively/bitterly brought up in conversations a number of times, but never actually addressed, and in my heart of hearts, I feel like that's going to be a point of stress moving forwards. Oh, and I really felt uncomfortable with the way Mel talked to/thought about Kade's emotions/reactions. It felt a bit close-minded and I know it was likely from her own discomfort, but I was annoyed that Bebe never did much to help ease that for either side and that, while Mel was willing to publicly fight for Kade, she also never really did much to question her own assumptions about them. That felt, not great, to me.
So here we are. The greater framework and story and relationship vibes were exactly what I wanted and I enjoyed the hell out of them. And the title and cover are damn gorgeous. But I didn't vibe with the actual three individuals that were a part of this story and relationship. I wish I felt different. I look forward to reading more (including backlist) from Alexander though - the promise is there!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcohol
Moderate: Transphobia
Minor: Ableism
xt_bro_tbr's review against another edition
emotional
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Minor: Ableism and Transphobia
jazhandz's review against another edition
emotional
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.75
Thanks to NetGalley for an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this a lot! I’ve been on a romance kick lately, and I appreciate how this is structured differently than the average. The plot problems felt a little contrived, but it was an interesting relationship study. The characters’ dynamics were fun, and Mel was a good protagonist. This was my second TJ Alexander book and I found it to be leaps and bounds better, sweeter, and more enjoyable.
My only real issue, which unfortunately was a BIG issue for me, was the treatment of Kade, one of the two love interests. As a genderqueer autistic-ish person I was so excited to find a genderqueer autistic-ish character, but the narrative is so, SO weird about Kade’s neurodiversity (the word autism isn’t used which is fine, but that’s how I read it). About half the book has Mel believing that Kade hates her because they aren’t warm and enthusiastic, and even with 100% confidence that it would be resolved eventually, it was really annoying and honestly saddening for Kade’s actions to be incessantly misconstrued as hatred or distaste.
With that caveat aside - I’d recommend this book to friends. It’s fun! It’s charming! Just maybe not my autistic-ish friends, at least not without a heads up.
I enjoyed this a lot! I’ve been on a romance kick lately, and I appreciate how this is structured differently than the average. The plot problems felt a little contrived, but it was an interesting relationship study. The characters’ dynamics were fun, and Mel was a good protagonist. This was my second TJ Alexander book and I found it to be leaps and bounds better, sweeter, and more enjoyable.
My only real issue, which unfortunately was a BIG issue for me, was the treatment of Kade, one of the two love interests. As a genderqueer autistic-ish person I was so excited to find a genderqueer autistic-ish character, but the narrative is so, SO weird about Kade’s neurodiversity (the word autism isn’t used which is fine, but that’s how I read it). About half the book has Mel believing that Kade hates her because they aren’t warm and enthusiastic, and even with 100% confidence that it would be resolved eventually, it was really annoying and honestly saddening for Kade’s actions to be incessantly misconstrued as hatred or distaste.
With that caveat aside - I’d recommend this book to friends. It’s fun! It’s charming! Just maybe not my autistic-ish friends, at least not without a heads up.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcohol and Sexual content
Moderate: Ableism and Transphobia
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