See You Next Month by Jamey Moody

 


The details…

  • Title: See You Next Month
  • Author: Jamey Moody
  • Independent Author and Publisher 
  • Publication date: May 10, 2024
  • Edited by: Kat Jackson
  • Available formats: ebook, paperback 
  • File size: 465.3KB
  • Length: 353 pages
  • Genre: contemporary romance 
  • Themes: women loving women, self-discovery, family, motherhood, hope, friendship, falling in love, bisexuality, exploring sexuality, sapphic romance, friends-to-lovers, careers
  • Tropes: toaster oven, friends-to-lovers, workplace romance, vacation romance

The blurb from the publisher…

Web designer Kelsey Kenny always dreamed of spending Christmas at the beach, but when her daughters make other plans, she is left on her own. A chance call from her client in the Virgin Islands has her packing her bags for an exciting stay at their resort while she views the property for a website redesign.

After her divorce, the idea of spending her first Christmas without her two young sons had Isabella Burns anything but merry. To keep from ruining Christmas for the rest of her family, Isabella decided to put her energy into her work. Her newest client was a brand renovation for a resort in the Virgin Islands. There would be plenty of sunshine, tropical drinks and not a hint of snow.

On their first night, Kelsey and Isabella realize they are the only singles at the resort and quickly become friends. While brainstorming ideas with the CEO they come up with a unique marketing plan that has them returning every month to highlight a specific vacation.

As their friendship deepens, sparks begin to fly. Is this the island magic the locals talk about? Why does it feel like they’re leaving their hearts in paradise? Could they bring paradise home?

Come along on this romantic adventure complete with an age gap, a toaster oven and a friends to lovers happily ever after that will warm your heart.

My thoughts…

Jamey Moody’s novels have gained a following among sapphic readers, and much of that is due to the fact that she produces stories that have low angst. The absence of heavy, emotional drama allows readers to focus on the romantic intimacy between the characters, making for a tale that is light and fun to read. Readers appreciate that. They also appreciate that she indulges in healthy courtships. Her characters communicate openly and respect boundaries, fostering a positive place for romances to develop. Readers can immerse themselves in stories of hope, joy, and love without the added stress of weighty conflict. See You Next Month, with its themes of friendship, family and love, doles out generous helpings of all of that. 

Moody centers this new romance on two very likable, appealing characters, Isabella and Kelsey. They are both well-defined and distinct, exhibiting unique personalities and traits in their own right. However, just because their backstories aren’t loaded with tons of angsty baggage doesn’t mean they are flat. They have layers, contradictions and depth. They change and grow over the course of the story in ways that not only impact the storytelling but the reader as well. Ultimately, readers are able to connect to them, facilitating an empathy that makes the storytelling satisfying.

Besides providing See You Next Month with characters that feel like neighbors, women one would like to hang out with, Moody gives the story a real sense of escapism. Considering the setting primarily focuses on a Virgin Island resort, this romance truly sets the stage for vacation/poolside reading! She gives readers all the sights and sounds of island life. Her gorgeous descriptions and vivid imagery transport readers to the exotic, picturesque landscape of the resort, making it absorbing and relaxing. This light and breezy setting provides a feeling of freedom and adventure, making it tons of fun to read.

Primarily though, this is a feel-good, heartwarming romance. It’s uplifting and easy to digest. Filled with swoon-worthy love (something that Moody is known for) in a world where love conquers all, readers are regaled with a romance that’s comfortably predictable yet soothingly idyllic. Like a pair of comfortable shoes, the storytelling is good for the soul (insert wink emoji) and feels grand. The simplicity of this reliable, low-stress love story is indulgent and satisfying. It’s a respite from real life, and that’s refreshing. 

Final remarks…

See You Next Month is a lovely romance, and yet another example of why Jamey Moody is a quick pick for so many sapphic readers. It is well paced and charming. Isabella and Kelsey have a strong chemistry but it’s not rushed; They do not hastily dash toward the bedroom. They take their time, get to know each other, and this is appealing. Through intimate conversations and tender moments, readers watch them fall in love. This generates something that feels real and genuine, making See You Next Month the perfect comfort read for those that desire romances with strong connections and low angst. 

Strengths…

  • Emotionally satisfying
  • Character driven narrative 
  • Entertaining storyline 
  • Likable, engaging characters
  • Strong character chemistry 
  • Charming setting
  • Great vacation read

This book is available from…

A bit about the author…

Jamey is a small town Texas girl that grew up believing she could do anything. Her mother loved to read, and romance novels were a favorite that she passed on to her daughter. When she found lesfic novels, her world changed. She not only fell in love with the genre but wanted to write her own stories. When she’s not writing her next lesbian romance, she can be found riding her bike, paddle boarding on a lake or in the middle of some adventure. Learn more about her by checking out her website and social media.

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