maryjayka 's review for:

The Baby Bargain by Crystal Kaswell
5.0

So often, the "I need to have a baby now" books have implausible or annoying (in order to inherit property in a will - hate that) reasons for the urgent pregnancy. In order to avoid spoilers, I will just say that "The Baby Bargain" touches on a very real and serious reason for having a baby on a short timeline. It also includes themes related to mental health diagnoses - both explicit and implied - that impact on the main characters' evolving relationship. The inner dialogue and emotional experience of the main male character is complex and poignant, reflecting a richly developed character. Some very challenging themes are addressed in a way that is thoughtful, deep, and respectful of how these situations are experienced in real life.

I am enough of a book nerd that I read the author's notes at the end of books, and as much as I loved this book, I might have loved the author's notes more, as she echoed so many of my pet peeves about romance, confirmed my impressions of Chase, and inspired me with her inspiration for writing. I loved this book and this author - I will definitely be going back to read the earlier books in this series!