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battyaboutbooks's review against another edition
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
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
🦇 Triple Sec Book Review 🦇
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
❓ #QOTD What's your favorite drink (non-alcoholic or cocktail)?
🦇 Post-divorce, Mel is now a jaded bartender at Terror & Virtue; a swanky cocktail lounge in NYC that gives the bar staff little room for creativity. There, Mel meets Bebe; beautiful, funny, and all too enchanting. Oh, and Bebe's partner, Kade. Mel tries to put meeting the bubbly beauty out of her mind until Bebe makes a unique offer: she wants to take Mel on a date. So begins Mel's first steps into the polyamorous world, prompting Mel to open her long trampled-on heart. While Mel balances shifts and dates with Bebe, she contemplates entering a cocktail competition to turn the dream of opening her own bar into a reality. But what if it all becomes too much at once?
💜 So, TJ Alexander is now a new auto-buy, a new fave, a new literary love. There are some books you have to read for chapters and chapters before you fall into the voice, before you recognize the main character's tone and inflictions and moods. The essence of Mel, from that very page, is both familiar and foreign, as most bartenders are. That's what makes them easy to talk to. Alexander's word choice is easy and enthralling; a comfort. Each character lives off the page until they're telling the story alongside you, from Bebe's bubbly personality to Kade's soft stoicism. This book is so beautifully, unapologetically, and above all NATURALLY queer. It's as refreshing as the palomas Mel loves (hopefully, since I wouldn't know), smooth and citrusy, sparkling and fun. I'm sad that I had to reach the end, even though the story's ending quenched my thirst after a long drought of 'meh' reads.
💜 Alexander provides a healthy, comforting, realistic glimpse into the polyamorous world. Each amendment to the written agreement Mel and Bebe began with showed us Mel's development as she opened her heart a little bit more with each chapter. I adored Mel's reason that many people she already knew (including her own roommate and best friend) were in poly relationships. Even though it took Mel by surprise, the actual existence of these relationships was natural. Alexander provides so many small glimpses into this world, inviting readers to understand different dynamics and arrangements, but there are bigger themes at play that I wish we delved into more for Mel's sake. For example, the analogy that relationships are gardens we must tend to, less they wilt. While Mel decides to put more of an effort into her friendship with Daniel, we only see two small attempts (a brief conversation and her meeting Daniel's paramour).
💜 Mel's trip with Kade was everything, providing us with an opportunity to focus on Kade's microexpressions and inner workings. I honestly could have lived in that chapter far longer. Maybe we can get a prequel, with Kade and Bebe and Blue, from Kade's point of view? I understand too well, being the person who feels so, so much but doesn't always show it. The commentary on jealous, their reasoning behind Bebe calling them "wife," their reaction to Mel defending them when so many people misgendered them at the airport; everything. Kade's smallest gestures had the biggest impact, including their urging for Mel to TALK with them and Bebe instead of getting upset over a minor mistake. Communication is a big theme in this book, in the BEST way. Bebe and Kade urge Mel to process her thoughts and feelings, even when Mel tends to fight them. Again, a wonderful portrayal of a healthy relationship.
💙 As captivating as Alexander's voice and wordplay were, I feel like some moments were rushed through. We don't get much of a chance to linger on the development of the relationships, HOW the feelings came about, instead moving quickly from the first date to Mel's unexpected attachment to Bebe, then again from the snow trip to amending the agreement once to include Kade to eventually the final amendment. There was just a bit too much tell and not enough show for me. Also, can we get some of Mel's recipes, pretty please?
🦇 Recommended to fans of Casey McQuiston and Alexandria Bellefleur.
✨ The Vibes ✨
🍸 Delightfully Queer
🍸 Polyamorous Relationships
🍸 No Third-Act Breakup
🍸 Cocktail Competition
🍸 Contemporary Romance
🍸 Smut
🦇 Major thanks to the author and publisher for providing an ARC of this book via Netgalley. 🥰 This does not affect my opinion regarding the book. #TripleSec
💬 Quotes
❝ "There’s a difference between feeling something and letting it consume you.” ❞
❝ 'Just’ friends makes it sound like something lesser. Easier. I don’t think it is. It’s still a garden that needs tending, even if it’s growing something else. In some other season.” ❞
❝ “Blue used all pronouns. They used to say it was the closest they could get to describing the infinite spirit inside them.” ❞
❝ “You grow up, thinking, ‘If only I can find the one person I can be with for the rest of my life, if only I can get a house with a yard, as long as I am living the most normal, blameless life, then that will show ’em. You know? You think you have to tick all these boxes. That your relationship has to look a certain way. Even if you’re—no, especially if you’re queer. There’s so much pressure to do the right thing.” ❞
❝ The boot shape of Italy stared back at her, reminding her of Pompeii. She had roots in a disaster zone; she’d been born into it. Maybe, instead of running from it, she could stand still, face the eruption, and embrace whatever came. ❞
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
❓ #QOTD What's your favorite drink (non-alcoholic or cocktail)?
🦇 Post-divorce, Mel is now a jaded bartender at Terror & Virtue; a swanky cocktail lounge in NYC that gives the bar staff little room for creativity. There, Mel meets Bebe; beautiful, funny, and all too enchanting. Oh, and Bebe's partner, Kade. Mel tries to put meeting the bubbly beauty out of her mind until Bebe makes a unique offer: she wants to take Mel on a date. So begins Mel's first steps into the polyamorous world, prompting Mel to open her long trampled-on heart. While Mel balances shifts and dates with Bebe, she contemplates entering a cocktail competition to turn the dream of opening her own bar into a reality. But what if it all becomes too much at once?
💜 So, TJ Alexander is now a new auto-buy, a new fave, a new literary love. There are some books you have to read for chapters and chapters before you fall into the voice, before you recognize the main character's tone and inflictions and moods. The essence of Mel, from that very page, is both familiar and foreign, as most bartenders are. That's what makes them easy to talk to. Alexander's word choice is easy and enthralling; a comfort. Each character lives off the page until they're telling the story alongside you, from Bebe's bubbly personality to Kade's soft stoicism. This book is so beautifully, unapologetically, and above all NATURALLY queer. It's as refreshing as the palomas Mel loves (hopefully, since I wouldn't know), smooth and citrusy, sparkling and fun. I'm sad that I had to reach the end, even though the story's ending quenched my thirst after a long drought of 'meh' reads.
💜 Alexander provides a healthy, comforting, realistic glimpse into the polyamorous world. Each amendment to the written agreement Mel and Bebe began with showed us Mel's development as she opened her heart a little bit more with each chapter. I adored Mel's reason that many people she already knew (including her own roommate and best friend) were in poly relationships. Even though it took Mel by surprise, the actual existence of these relationships was natural. Alexander provides so many small glimpses into this world, inviting readers to understand different dynamics and arrangements, but there are bigger themes at play that I wish we delved into more for Mel's sake. For example, the analogy that relationships are gardens we must tend to, less they wilt. While Mel decides to put more of an effort into her friendship with Daniel, we only see two small attempts (a brief conversation and her meeting Daniel's paramour).
💜 Mel's trip with Kade was everything, providing us with an opportunity to focus on Kade's microexpressions and inner workings. I honestly could have lived in that chapter far longer. Maybe we can get a prequel, with Kade and Bebe and Blue, from Kade's point of view? I understand too well, being the person who feels so, so much but doesn't always show it. The commentary on jealous, their reasoning behind Bebe calling them "wife," their reaction to Mel defending them when so many people misgendered them at the airport; everything. Kade's smallest gestures had the biggest impact, including their urging for Mel to TALK with them and Bebe instead of getting upset over a minor mistake. Communication is a big theme in this book, in the BEST way. Bebe and Kade urge Mel to process her thoughts and feelings, even when Mel tends to fight them. Again, a wonderful portrayal of a healthy relationship.
💙 As captivating as Alexander's voice and wordplay were, I feel like some moments were rushed through. We don't get much of a chance to linger on the development of the relationships, HOW the feelings came about, instead moving quickly from the first date to Mel's unexpected attachment to Bebe, then again from the snow trip to amending the agreement once to include Kade to eventually the final amendment. There was just a bit too much tell and not enough show for me. Also, can we get some of Mel's recipes, pretty please?
🦇 Recommended to fans of Casey McQuiston and Alexandria Bellefleur.
✨ The Vibes ✨
🍸 Delightfully Queer
🍸 Polyamorous Relationships
🍸 No Third-Act Breakup
🍸 Cocktail Competition
🍸 Contemporary Romance
🍸 Smut
🦇 Major thanks to the author and publisher for providing an ARC of this book via Netgalley. 🥰 This does not affect my opinion regarding the book. #TripleSec
💬 Quotes
❝ "There’s a difference between feeling something and letting it consume you.” ❞
❝ 'Just’ friends makes it sound like something lesser. Easier. I don’t think it is. It’s still a garden that needs tending, even if it’s growing something else. In some other season.” ❞
❝ “Blue used all pronouns. They used to say it was the closest they could get to describing the infinite spirit inside them.” ❞
❝ “You grow up, thinking, ‘If only I can find the one person I can be with for the rest of my life, if only I can get a house with a yard, as long as I am living the most normal, blameless life, then that will show ’em. You know? You think you have to tick all these boxes. That your relationship has to look a certain way. Even if you’re—no, especially if you’re queer. There’s so much pressure to do the right thing.” ❞
❝ The boot shape of Italy stared back at her, reminding her of Pompeii. She had roots in a disaster zone; she’d been born into it. Maybe, instead of running from it, she could stand still, face the eruption, and embrace whatever came. ❞
katpen96's review against another edition
emotional
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? No
4.0
I really enjoyed this book. I liked watching the characters discover their different relationships and their emphasis on communication. As someone who loves mixed drinks I thought the cocktail competition was so fun. I do wish the author went more in depth with Mel's friendship with Daniel.
Thank you to NetGalley, T.J. Alexander, and Atria Books for a chance to read and review an ARC of Triple Sec.
Thank you to NetGalley, T.J. Alexander, and Atria Books for a chance to read and review an ARC of Triple Sec.
bookishbunny_'s review against another edition
4.0
This was a great queer poly romance with good character development and a refreshing balance of humor, spice, and love. I really liked how the characters communicated with each other and how they handled the dynamics of their relationships. I wasn't too invested in the plot with the cocktail competition but the way the characters progressed, both individually and together, was done very well. It highlighted how unique each character was and it was interesting to see how their perspectives began to change as they got to know each other. Mel, Bebe, and Kade were all very emotionally mature and I think this helped with the overall enjoyment of reading about their relationship. However, I do think we could have learned more about each of them. But overall, there was good representation in this book, the characters were all very likeable, and it was a refreshing introduction of polyamory in romance.
Thank you to Atria Books for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Thank you to Atria Books for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
greyys_libraryy's review against another edition
emotional
inspiring
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? It's complicated
4.0
Triple Sec was better than I had expected it to be. I enjoyed the development of the relationships and how real all the characters felt. I'm not a huge fan on smut so to me it felt excessive, but it made sense for their ages and relationship. Mel's love for bartending was felt throughout the book which I liked. The characters were all dynamic and developed well I've the course of the book.
I wish we got more backstory on all of the characters other than one of the previous partners. I would love to learn more about Kade and Bebe, Daniel and Jackson, and even Mel.
I wish we got more backstory on all of the characters other than one of the previous partners. I would love to learn more about Kade and Bebe, Daniel and Jackson, and even Mel.
putz7's review
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
relaxing
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
4.0
Triple Sec is a delightful contemporary that follows Mel in the world of mixology and polyamory.
Mel is a jaded bartender (relatable) who stumbles upon partners, Bebe and Kade, but she also finds herself a competitor in a mixology competition. As she navigates new relationships and spirits, will she find the perfect balance?
Each part is a love story (3 in 1 deal up in this thing) and collectively an ode to mixology. This is an easy, light read that has great representation, touches the importance of communication in all interpersonal relationships and being yourself. I have no notes, really enjoyed everything about Triple Sec. I think this would be a great read to start Pride month. This comes out June 4th!
Thank you Atria Books and Netgalley for an eARC copy of Triple Sec in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Mel is a jaded bartender (relatable) who stumbles upon partners, Bebe and Kade, but she also finds herself a competitor in a mixology competition. As she navigates new relationships and spirits, will she find the perfect balance?
Each part is a love story (3 in 1 deal up in this thing) and collectively an ode to mixology. This is an easy, light read that has great representation, touches the importance of communication in all interpersonal relationships and being yourself. I have no notes, really enjoyed everything about Triple Sec. I think this would be a great read to start Pride month. This comes out June 4th!
Thank you Atria Books and Netgalley for an eARC copy of Triple Sec in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
adotzam's review against another edition
emotional
reflective
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
when will it be my turn for two hot, rich married queers to fall in love with me, fly me to international vacations and fund my dream business? 😭
this is great if you're looking for an escapist fairy tale but if you want something with a little more meat, look elsewhere. I could've used a LOT more backstory for kade, bebe and even mel tbh.
this is great if you're looking for an escapist fairy tale but if you want something with a little more meat, look elsewhere. I could've used a LOT more backstory for kade, bebe and even mel tbh.
rhack05's review against another edition
4.0
This is a fun polyamorous romance novel that I didn't know I needed in my life until now. I have read all kinds of books but I believe this is my first polyamorous book and I absolutely adored it. The characters are complex but thoughtful and the way they communicate and care for one another is admirable. Not only was the poly story cute but also the bartender creating her own signature drink storyline was great as well and now I would like to make and/or taste several of the drinks Mel created. This book is "tastefully done" and I would love some recipes.
This was my first book by this author and I can't wait to read more.
Thank you NetGalley and Atria Books | Atria/Emily Bestler Books for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first book by this author and I can't wait to read more.
Thank you NetGalley and Atria Books | Atria/Emily Bestler Books for access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
jazzyjbox's review against another edition
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? It's complicated
4.75
A cute and fluffy romance about a mixologist diving into her first polyamorous relationship.
Divorced before age 27, Mel is working as a bartender when she meets a striking woman named Bebe who is giving off seriously flirtatious vibes. And then meets Bebe's genderqueer wife Kade. Mel explores polyamory while preparing for a drink concoction competition to hopefully win money to put towards her dream of owning a bar.
This was super lighthearted and fluffy with a few spicy scenes and a great introduction to polyamory. I loved the balance between the romance and Mel's goals. The book is broken into a 3-part romance between Mel and Bebe, Mel and Kade, and then all three of them. This is my second read by TJ Alexander and definitely won't be the last!
Thank you to NetGalley and publisher for the opportunity to read and review.
Divorced before age 27, Mel is working as a bartender when she meets a striking woman named Bebe who is giving off seriously flirtatious vibes. And then meets Bebe's genderqueer wife Kade. Mel explores polyamory while preparing for a drink concoction competition to hopefully win money to put towards her dream of owning a bar.
This was super lighthearted and fluffy with a few spicy scenes and a great introduction to polyamory. I loved the balance between the romance and Mel's goals. The book is broken into a 3-part romance between Mel and Bebe, Mel and Kade, and then all three of them. This is my second read by TJ Alexander and definitely won't be the last!
Thank you to NetGalley and publisher for the opportunity to read and review.
deepbutdazzlingdarkness's review
5.0
This is the first poly romance novel I’ve ever read, and I absolutely loved it. All of the negotiation, the weirdness between Mel and Kade at first, the super hot sex! Upon starting the book, I was delighted to discover that it’s a f/f/nb couple, and it was incorporated really well. The drama and conflict wasn’t over the top, and it totally made sense that they would struggle when navigating a relationship between 3 people with different hang ups and issues and levels of comfort with each other. The world felt so joyful and lived in and I just love books that really celebrate being queer. <3 I’m also not much of a drinker anymore, but I loved reading about all of Mel’s cocktail creations! Also the cover is GORGEOUS and is the main reason I was originally drawn in and I’m so glad I was!
Thanks to Atria Books and NetGalley for the ARC; all opinions are my own.
Thanks to Atria Books and NetGalley for the ARC; all opinions are my own.