A review by jennyreads_2022
Tempting Promises by Corinne Michaels

emotional funny lighthearted relaxing medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

This was a true enemies to lovers book. Rowan and Charlotte were rival farmers who pushed each other’s buttons and didn’t back down from any verbal sparring. Rowan let Charlotte’s sister, Aurora, ruin his reputation around town for something he didn’t do and Charlotte was fooled by her sister’s tales. It wasn’t until she was forced to get to know Rowan that her justification for hating him faltered. 

Rowan was a very layered main character. He started out as a man who loved his family but refused to open up to the possibility of romantic love because of the trauma he suffered as a kid watching his mother’s heartbreak. Although he and Charlotte sparred, he was never cruel. Despite how mean Charlotte could be, he never hesitated to step in when she needed help. Even before they fell in love, Rowan showed up for Charlotte. 

Charlotte was facing her own demons. She was so sweet and kind, except when it came to Rowan. I liked that when she took her hate too far she always apologized. It took her awhile to see Rowan differently and even longer to trust that he wouldn’t leave her like everyone else had, but when she finally got there, her relationship with Rowan was spectacular. 

There was a lot to love about this book. I loved the banter between Rowan and Charlotte. The sibling interactions between all the Whitlocks. I loved getting to see Rowan’s softer side with his relationship with Olivia. The plot was fun while still having some very emotional moments. I loved the end and the way everything worked out for everyone.