A review by justinlife
Hopeful Romantic by Daryl Banner

emotional hopeful lighthearted relaxing fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

This was a cute story just in time for the holidays. I find it funny that Banner uses these hot men covers, leading the reader to think it’s going to be a spicy read, when it’s really just a sweet romance with a little bit of spice. 

Banner created this fictional town in TX full of characters that he keeps up through the series. This is one of the best things about his style is how the secondary characters have full lives and don’t live to serve the plot. At times, I think he likes these characters more than his protagonists. 

This novel features Malcom, son of a chef, who hasn’t recovered from the date in book three but has to go help his dad with the catering of that dude’s wedding on Christmas Eve Eve. Mayhem ensues and hurt feelings come out. I love that Banner added another character outside the two main protagonists who I hope to see further down the line.

I would rate it higher but there was a scene involving sex and alcohol that I don’t think was handled well.

Overall though a fun light read.