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thank you to sunnybabe PR for sending this ARC to me!
I really liked the multiple plots in this one, from following the MMC's business deals to the very complicated love story. The complications in their relationship seemed realistic and I appreciated miscommunication not really existing in this book lol. can't wait for the next one!
I really liked the multiple plots in this one, from following the MMC's business deals to the very complicated love story. The complications in their relationship seemed realistic and I appreciated miscommunication not really existing in this book lol. can't wait for the next one!
emotional
funny
hopeful
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Adrian R. Hale's "The Bourbon Bride" presents a modern retelling of the timeless myth of Hades and Persephone, set against the backdrop of contemporary Atlanta and Savannah. This steamy romance intertwines Southern charm with classical allure, delivering a compelling narrative that explores themes of desire, ambition, and self-discovery.
In this reimagined tale, hotel heiress Paige Fairchild embodies the innocence and grace of Persephone, trapped in a world of tradition and societal expectations. Her encounter with billionaire businessman Hayes Olsen, a modern Hades with a complex and enigmatic demeanor, sets the stage for a captivating love story.
Hale's adept storytelling weaves together popular tropes—including age gaps and virgin heroines—with a nuanced touch, transforming Paige into a character of depth and resilience. Hayes, despite his commanding presence, evolves into a multifaceted figure whose vulnerabilities and ambitions mirror those of the mythological Hades.
The chemistry between Paige and Hayes crackles with tension and tenderness, drawing readers into their unconventional relationship. Hale's fluid writing style immerses us in a world where passion and ambition collide, enhanced by a rich ensemble of supporting characters, including the captivating Alex and the loyal canine companion, Cerberus.
While the pacing of the novel is brisk and engaging, some loose ends and abrupt plot resolutions may leave readers craving more closure. However, this serves as a clever setup for the anticipated sequel, promising further exploration of characters and unresolved threads.
In summary, "The Bourbon Bride" is a captivating romance novel that blends classic mythology with contemporary romance, offering a fresh take on the enduring tale of Hades and Persephone. Hale's debut is a promising start to what appears to be an exciting series, leaving readers eager to delve deeper into the intertwined lives of Paige, Hayes, and the captivating world they inhabit.
For fans of steamy romances with a Southern twist and mythological allure, "The Bourbon Bride" offers a satisfying read that promises more to come in the sequel. Adrian R. Hale's narrative prowess shines in this tale of passion, ambition, and the pursuit of love against all odds.
In this reimagined tale, hotel heiress Paige Fairchild embodies the innocence and grace of Persephone, trapped in a world of tradition and societal expectations. Her encounter with billionaire businessman Hayes Olsen, a modern Hades with a complex and enigmatic demeanor, sets the stage for a captivating love story.
Hale's adept storytelling weaves together popular tropes—including age gaps and virgin heroines—with a nuanced touch, transforming Paige into a character of depth and resilience. Hayes, despite his commanding presence, evolves into a multifaceted figure whose vulnerabilities and ambitions mirror those of the mythological Hades.
The chemistry between Paige and Hayes crackles with tension and tenderness, drawing readers into their unconventional relationship. Hale's fluid writing style immerses us in a world where passion and ambition collide, enhanced by a rich ensemble of supporting characters, including the captivating Alex and the loyal canine companion, Cerberus.
While the pacing of the novel is brisk and engaging, some loose ends and abrupt plot resolutions may leave readers craving more closure. However, this serves as a clever setup for the anticipated sequel, promising further exploration of characters and unresolved threads.
In summary, "The Bourbon Bride" is a captivating romance novel that blends classic mythology with contemporary romance, offering a fresh take on the enduring tale of Hades and Persephone. Hale's debut is a promising start to what appears to be an exciting series, leaving readers eager to delve deeper into the intertwined lives of Paige, Hayes, and the captivating world they inhabit.
For fans of steamy romances with a Southern twist and mythological allure, "The Bourbon Bride" offers a satisfying read that promises more to come in the sequel. Adrian R. Hale's narrative prowess shines in this tale of passion, ambition, and the pursuit of love against all odds.
*Thank you to Sunnybabe PR for providing me with the ebook*
Adrian Hale is an incredible author! I really enjoyed her writing style and how descriptive she was all throughout the book. It made it even easier to envision the story as it unfolded.
I loved Paige and watching her grow to be an independent young woman that decided to put her foot down and stop letting others rule her life. Her mother was absolutely insufferable and I wish she had really given her mother a piece of her mind.
Hayes fell hard for Paige and despite their age gap he decided to still pursue her. He is a perfect example of an overprotective, touch her you die male love interest.
The ending cliffhanger broke my heart and I am eager to read the second book!
Adrian Hale is an incredible author! I really enjoyed her writing style and how descriptive she was all throughout the book. It made it even easier to envision the story as it unfolded.
I loved Paige and watching her grow to be an independent young woman that decided to put her foot down and stop letting others rule her life. Her mother was absolutely insufferable and I wish she had really given her mother a piece of her mind.
Hayes fell hard for Paige and despite their age gap he decided to still pursue her. He is a perfect example of an overprotective, touch her you die male love interest.
The ending cliffhanger broke my heart and I am eager to read the second book!
When I started The Carbon Bride I wasn't sure how I was going to like it. I'm normally not a huge fan age gap romances I feel like they can be a bit predatory. At first I was worried that was what was going to happen between Paige and Hayes. He kept making comments on her purity and I found that a bit off putting. That changed around the 30% mark. Their relationship became so much more.
I really enjoyed the billionaire / touch her and die aspect of The Bourbon Bride. One of my favorite parts of the story was when Hayes protected Paige from the carjacking. It really showed how far he would go where Paige was concerned. Haye's also took his time when it came to making love to Paige. He was her first ever experience and he took his time to make sure that she was comfortable and ready.
I really liked the addition of Cerberus. I like how the tough protective dog instantly turned into a cinnamon roll with Paige. You just know that dog would do anything it would take to protect Paige from harm.
For some reason I didn't realize this was a Hades and Persephone retelling when I started reading but I'm totally here for it.
The Bourbon Bride ends on a cliffhanger. If you don't like cliffhangers this might not be the story for you. It doesn't have a happy ending but it truly pulls you into Paige and Hayes story.
Thank you to @sunnybabepr and Adrian for giving me a complimentary copy of the book for my honest review!
I really enjoyed the billionaire / touch her and die aspect of The Bourbon Bride. One of my favorite parts of the story was when Hayes protected Paige from the carjacking. It really showed how far he would go where Paige was concerned. Haye's also took his time when it came to making love to Paige. He was her first ever experience and he took his time to make sure that she was comfortable and ready.
I really liked the addition of Cerberus. I like how the tough protective dog instantly turned into a cinnamon roll with Paige. You just know that dog would do anything it would take to protect Paige from harm.
For some reason I didn't realize this was a Hades and Persephone retelling when I started reading but I'm totally here for it.
The Bourbon Bride ends on a cliffhanger. If you don't like cliffhangers this might not be the story for you. It doesn't have a happy ending but it truly pulls you into Paige and Hayes story.
Thank you to @sunnybabepr and Adrian for giving me a complimentary copy of the book for my honest review!
part one
I started this book not realizing it was part one of a duet. I enjoyed this book, but I was left hanging. On to the 2nd half.
I started this book not realizing it was part one of a duet. I enjoyed this book, but I was left hanging. On to the 2nd half.
“I would give my soul to make sure she has everything she wants, and my very life to keep her safe.”
This is a new to me author and I did like the story. It's not what I typically go for as it is a Haydes x Persephone retelling vibe to it with a Southern twist.
This is Paige and Hayes's story. Paige is a Southern girl who is a good girl, beautiful, and a tad naive. Paige, during her family dinner, is told that she is to be married off to Garrison Davis, and she runs away. Hayes is a cutthroat businessman, who does what he can to expand his businesses. She finds herself in the only place she feels comfortable in, the elusive club owned by Hayes. He sees Paige and almost immediately the two of them have chemistry.
These two are good main characters and even though Hayes may seem cold and ruthless, he's a bit of a softie when it comes to Paige. This book is a slow burn, but it is worth the wait when it finally hits.
Thank you to Sunny Babe PR for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is a new to me author and I did like the story. It's not what I typically go for as it is a Haydes x Persephone retelling vibe to it with a Southern twist.
This is Paige and Hayes's story. Paige is a Southern girl who is a good girl, beautiful, and a tad naive. Paige, during her family dinner, is told that she is to be married off to Garrison Davis, and she runs away. Hayes is a cutthroat businessman, who does what he can to expand his businesses. She finds herself in the only place she feels comfortable in, the elusive club owned by Hayes. He sees Paige and almost immediately the two of them have chemistry.
These two are good main characters and even though Hayes may seem cold and ruthless, he's a bit of a softie when it comes to Paige. This book is a slow burn, but it is worth the wait when it finally hits.
Thank you to Sunny Babe PR for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book wasn't what I was expecting even though I'm not sure what that was, but I really enjoyed it! I'm a sucker for all the tropes (and we all know I LOVE an age gap) so of course I had to read it and I'm glad I did. I'm not usually a slow burn gal but Adrian drew it out perfectly. Hayes and Paige's chemistry was great; I love that he was so kind to her and went along with her on her terms. Paige's mother was AWFUL. No one should have their own mother treat them like that. This book ended on a cliffhanger but that means I get more of them in book two, The Bourbon Bargain! I will definitely be reading more of your writing, Adrian!
Read if you love:
• billionaire romance frage gap
•big cuddly protective dogs
•virgin fmc
•"I'll be your safe harbor"
•him standing up for her
Read if you love:
• billionaire romance frage gap
•big cuddly protective dogs
•virgin fmc
•"I'll be your safe harbor"
•him standing up for her
Slowburn
Age Gap
Small town
Betrayal
I enjoyed this read, although I don’t think I was ready for a Slowburn. Luckily there were some scenes that edged you a bit more than a Marianna zapata slow burn
Age Gap
Small town
Betrayal
I enjoyed this read, although I don’t think I was ready for a Slowburn. Luckily there were some scenes that edged you a bit more than a Marianna zapata slow burn