A review by natalie_deane
The Art of Scandal by Regina Black

emotional 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

This book was such a pleasant surprise! I've heard nothing but great things, but I feel like most of what I've heard has been focused on this being ~steamy~ and ~scandalous~. The funny thing is, this barely had any smut (though don't get me wrong, it's definitely sultry with plenty of sexual tension). And while there were definitely scandalous moments, this story—especially once you hit the halfway point—is so deeply grounded in the characters: their passions, their regrets, the things they have given up out of fear and/or responsibility, their complex family dynamics, and so much more. I got emotional more than once during this story, and the unexpected depth made me so excited to read future Regina Black books! I was also surprised that I didn't mind the age gap between Rachel and Nathan. Usually I just feel uncomfortable with this trope, but the author handled it so well by *not* making it a main plot point in the story and by avoiding either character weirdly fetishizing the age of their partner.