I’m so happy to say goodbye to 2020. I want to thank the 100+ authors who helped me get through that mess of a year. Every time I thought I couldn’t take one more news story, I let myself get lost in a book that took me away from all the despair and insanity. I’m so grateful to all the authors on this list. I’m starting my list with my favorite book of the year. The rest will be listed in alphabetical order by author’s surname. I felt compelled to do it this way because each book touched me in its own unique manner during a very turbulent year.

Book of The Year:  The Book of Promises by Tammy Bird

The Book of Promises by Tammy BirdPublished by Flashpoint Publications

This book is a: psychological thriller.

Read the full review here

What it’s about

Spencer Price is a typical teenager trying to keep her head down and get through her last year of high school. The best thing in her life is Molly Blackstone. They’ve been besties since they were nine years old, and they’re inseparable. Spencer’s a little bit in love with Molly, and Molly capitalizes on that by manipulating Spencer for sex.

When Spencer tries to distance herself from Molly, Molly’s behavior becomes more and more malevolent and unhinged. Pursuing her independence could bring death not only to Spencer but to the other people in her life.

Why I love it

Bird’s writing is magnificent. There’s not a wasted word to be found, and the character development is incomparable.  It’s not the warm and cozy romance most of us were looking for in 2020, but this thriller still resonates with me. The tense mood Bird creates escalates to a palpable terror. I loved every minute of it. I read the last third of the book several times because the plot twists are so intricate and unexpected. I think Molly Blackstone is the most interesting and layered villain I’ve encountered recently because despite her cruel nature, I sometimes felt sorry for her. This will be a yearly reread for sure.

Get It Online

When you use these links and buy within 24 hours of clicking then we get a small commission that helps us run the site and it costs you nothing extra

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Finding Jessica Lambert by Clare Ashton

Finding Jessica Lambert by Clare AshtonPublished by Breezy Tree

This book is a: celebrity, age gap romance

Read the full review here

What it’s about

Jessica Lambert is the hottest starlet in England, and she’s dangerously close to burning out and throwing in the towel. During a panic attack on the London Underground, she’s rescued from prying eyes by the private and reclusive Anna Mayhew. Despite their considerable age difference, each is exactly what the other needs to navigate their complicated personal and career lives. Jessica and Anna share a surprising and magical love. Is there a happily ever after? (It’s a romance so chances are good.)

Why I love it

I love Ashton’s writing style. It’s unique, allowing me to get lost in her stories. Both Jessica and Anna are original characters – not your typical celebrity actors. Ashton’s subtle character work kept me captivated. There’s a level of intimacy Ashton brings to their relationship that’s so touching. I was surprised by where the plot took me, and I adore reading about a neurodivergent leading lady. If one book made me believe in a forever love this year, it would be this one. Such a beautiful story!

Get It Online

When you use these links and buy within 24 hours of clicking then we get a small commission that helps us run the site and it costs you nothing extra

 

 

 

 

 

 


Nottingham by Anna Burke

Nottingham by Anna BurkePublished by Bywater Books

This book is a: queer reimagining of the Robin Hood legend

Read the full review here

What it’s about

After Robyn Fletcher’s brother is hung by the sadistic sheriff of Nottingham, she has to provide for his wife and child. She is forced to start poaching live game, an act punishable by death. After a tragic hunting accident, she finds herself a fugitive from the law. When she meets the sheriff’s daughter, she is immediately smitten. Marian of Basford doesn’t feel like the other women at court. She’s not happy about her father’s determination to find her a husband to enhance his own political standing. After a riding accident, Robyn comes to Marian’s aide. She reveals she’s the fugitive her father is hunting, but she doesn’t tell Marian she’s a woman. After Marian is returned to safety, she can’t get the magnetic archer out of her head or heart. When the sheriff levies the highest tax in history, Robyn decides to take matters into her own hands. With her band of merry women and men, she decides to take down the sheriff. Can she kill the father of the woman she loves, or is there another way?

Why I love it

First of all, representation matters! Burke populated this book with lesbian, bisexual, trans, and nonbinary characters. I ate this up. A world populated with folks living their most authentic selves is an honest to goodness utopia. There are swords, bows and arrows, great action scenes, suspense, and a lovely romance all wrapped up in one riveting story. When I pick up one of Burke’s books, I know I’m guaranteed excellent writing and entrancing storytelling. As always, her world building is superb. Nottingham is the complete package.

Get It Online

When you use these links and buy within 24 hours of clicking then we get a small commission that helps us run the site and it costs you nothing extra

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Spindrift by Anna Burke

Spindrift by Anna BurkePublished by Bywater Books

This book is a: small town romance

Read the full review here

What it’s about

Emilia Russo has had enough of the emotional toll brought on from working as a shelter veterinarian. That combined with her father’s sudden death brings on a mental breakdown, landing her in the hospital. To help herself heal, she returns to her father’s house in Seal Cove, Maine to do renovations needed to put the house on the market. One of the first people she runs into is her childhood crush, Morgan Donovan. Despite Morgan being as close to perfection as a woman can get, Emilia’s determined not to become emotionally attached to anyone or anything in Seal Cove. The two women agree that friendship is something they can both enjoy. Over the course of the summer, Emilia and Morgan give up on fighting their attraction. They decide to give casual a try. Once Emilia finishes the renovations on the house and puts it on the market, the idea of leaving Seal Cove suddenly feels wrong. Is there a way Emilia and Morgan can create a life together without giving up the things they need as individuals?

Why I love it

Like I said, Burke never lets me down. Spindrift is terrific. I loved Emilia and Morgan. Emilia’s carrying around a dynamite amount of angst which is a great juxtaposition with Morgan’s mostly upbeat nature. They have an unusual butch/femme dynamic, and the sex scenes aren’t only super-hot, they’re magnificently sex positive. The story features a quirky and likeable group of side characters who’ll be getting their own stories in the future. I’m waiting with bated breath, and I can’t think of a better way to start 2021.

Get It Online

When you use these links and buy within 24 hours of clicking then we get a small commission that helps us run the site and it costs you nothing extra

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Following Chance by Baxter Brown

Following Chance by Baxter BrownPublished by Bella Books

This book is a: second chance romance set in a small town

Read the full review here

What it’s about

Kate and Lauren met in college and were drawn to each other from the moment they met. Kate had two rules, no dating straight women, and no dating married women. That meant Lauren was off limits. One night, Lauren presses a little too hard and Kate can’t help herself. Their affair is emotionally tumultuous from the moment it starts. Lauren finally decides to leave her husband to spend her life with Kate, but when it comes time, she’s nowhere to be found. Fifteen years later, Kate returns to the small town with her little girl. On the walk to school, the first person she comes across is Lauren with her little girl. The girls are the same age and in the same class. Before Kate and Lauren know it, the girls are best friends, which means the women have to navigate playdates, sleepovers, and vacations. This time, Lauren is not only single, but she knows exactly what she wants. She sets her sights on winning Kate’s heart, but this time around Kate is determined to keep Lauren at a safe distance. There’s no place in her heart for a second chance, until there is.

Why I love it

This is by far the angstiest book on my list, so if that’s your thing, this book is for you. Oh, the bad decisions, the hurt feelings, the resentments; they make the happily ever after even sweeter. I love it when an author can put me through the emotional wringer, and Brown really did me in. Kate and Lauren have great chemistry in the past, and in the present, it’s even stronger. Piecing together why Lauren never showed up the night she was supposed to leave her husband is a nice element to the story. Added bonus: I’m a huge fan of single moms with adorable children, and I got two for the price of one in this story.

Get It Online

When you use these links and buy within 24 hours of clicking then we get a small commission that helps us run the site and it costs you nothing extra

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Brooklyn Summer by Maggie Cummings

Brooklyn Summer by Maggie CummingsPublished by Bold Strokes Books

This book is a: friends to lovers romance

Check out the full review here

What it’s about

Ashleigh McAllister has decided to spend her summer exploring New York City. Keeping to her Brooklyn neighborhood only puts her in the awkward position of running into her ex-wife at every turn. When her friend, Liam’s best friend, Kellen comes to New York for the summer, Ashleigh agrees to play tour guide. While in New York, Kellen plans to repair a relationship with an old army buddy. The two women strike up an easy friendship while they discover the wonders of the city. Soon, their feelings become more intense than friendship, and their friends with benefits relationship quickly turns to love. When Ashleigh finds out the true nature of Kellen’s relationship with her old army buddy, she ends things with Kellen. Kellen returns to Colorado with a broken heart. It seems what she had with Ashleigh was simply a summer fling, or was it?

Why I love it

Cummings’ character development is fantastic. I loved watching Ashleigh bloom into a confident woman. She’s determined to rid herself of beliefs that keep her from moving forward to claim the life she’s been longing for. Kellen is just, wow. I couldn’t decide if I wanted to be Kellen or date her. Their innocent and awkward first meetings are sweet, and when they find themselves in bed, it practically melted my Kindle. There’s a plot twist in this story I never saw coming, and that’s rarely the case. Bravo.

Get It Online

When you use these links and buy within 24 hours of clicking then we get a small commission that helps us run the site and it costs you nothing extra

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Call to Me by Helena Harte

Call to Me by Helena HartePublished by Butterworth Books

This book is an: age gap romance

Read the full review here

What it’s about

Dr. Evie Jackson is a psychiatrist working at a secure hospital. She spends her Friday lunch breaks volunteering at a local shelter walking dogs. Ashlyn Smith works in an after-school program with young children. She’s boarding her rescue dog at the same shelter while it’s in quarantine. They strike up a casual acquaintance, and eventually, they agree to go out on a proper date. The date turns into a night of out of this world sex, and both women think they’ve met their perfect match. On their second date, Ash reveals she has no desire to be a parent at that point in her life, and Evie discloses her number one priority is her young son, Izad. The two women seem to be at an impasse. They try to remain friends, but Ash finds it impossible to squash her deeper feelings for Evie. Evie decides to cut ties with Ash altogether. When Izad is rushed to the hospital after an accident at the youth center he attends, Evie and Ash discover they are connected by more than just their mutual feelings.

Why I love it

The dynamic between Evie and Ash is the best thing about this story. Ash is attracted to older women. I got the feeling this was more than just the standard – mature women know what they want. She grew up in the foster care system and missed out on having stable and loving relationships. Evie’s a delight. She’s a devoted mother, consummate professional, and passionate lover. Watching them tap dance around their feelings was fun. Harte does a great job bringing Izad to life. There’re just as many layers to his character as there are for the adults in the story.

Get It Online

When you use these links and buy within 24 hours of clicking then we get a small commission that helps us run the site and it costs you nothing extra

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Wrong Number, Right Woman by Jae

Wrong Number, Right Woman by JaePublished by Ylva Publishing

This book is a: friends to lovers romance

Read the full review here

What it’s about

Denny quietly lives her life, working in the local grocery store, helping to support her younger sister and niece. She’d love to find her forever person, but her shyness has kept her from jumping into the dating scene. One day, she gets a text from a stranger asking her for fashion advice before going on a blind date. Denny gives the pictured yellow sneakers her approval but explains to the woman she’s texted the wrong number. Eliza is tired of using dating apps. She can’t figure out why it’s so hard to find her own prince charming. Her accidental friendship with Denny brings her enough happiness, she wants to meet Denny in person. Denny is completely taken aback. First of all, Eliza doesn’t know Denny is a woman, and secondly, she doesn’t know Denny is a lesbian. When they finally meet face to face, both of them are amazed at how natural their friendship feels. In fact, it feels so natural, Eliza begins to wonder if her feelings for Denny are more than platonic. They’re open with each other and acknowledge they both feel a romantic connection, but can their friendship survive if a romance between them fails?

Why I love it

This is the sweetest romance I read this year. That doesn’t mean it’s a simple or light weight story. It’s endearing, and it warmed my heart. The plot unfolds at a natural pace, and there’s no contrived conflict for conflict’s sake. Jae writes truly unique characters, and Denny and Eliza are perfect examples. I appreciate that they don’t look or dress like runway models. I love that Eliza isn’t concerned about figuring out how to label her sexuality. Most of all, Denny gets my hero of the year award because she’s got a quiet strength, is kind beyond measure, and learns to love herself unconditionally.

Get It Online

When you use these links and buy within 24 hours of clicking then we get a small commission that helps us run the site and it costs you nothing extra

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Before You Say I Do by Clare Lydon

Before You Say I Do by Clare Lydon is a romance about listening to your heart and having the courage to say, “No” to the pressure and expectations from the people around you. Abby Porter has a fabulous career and the perfect fiancé in Marcus Montgomery. He is sweet, attentive, and rich. She’s struggling to tap into the enthusiasm that most brides-to-be feel. Marcus thinks it’s just stress, so he hires her a professional bridesmaid. When Abby meets Jordan Cohen, stars collide. Jordan might be getting paid to be her long-lost childhood friend who just so happened to reappear in her life in time to be her bridesmaid, but Jordon sparks feelings in Abby that she hasn’t acknowledged since university. The run up to the wedding has them joined at the hip, and a heady mix of attraction and lust is making working together close to impossible. Marcus is oblivious. With the wedding days away, will Abby make it to the altar? The Characters Both Abby and Jordan are gorgeous, smart, and witty, yet they come off as typical women who have the type of fears and insecurities that are universal. Jordan is a people person. She can charm just about anybody, especially difficult mothers-of-the-groom who have their own agendas for the perfect wedding. Combined with her genius for planning and anticipating the needs of a bride-to-be, she is the perfect bridesmaid. However, she never anticipated working with a bride who would work her way into Jordan’s heart. From the get-go, Jordon struggles with putting her attraction to Abby aside. She’s a professional! She knows her place and her duty, yet as they become closer Jordan’s resolve begins to falter. She’s never had much success with relationships of her own, so she’s overwhelmed by her feelings. Once she realizes her heart belongs to Abby, she’s dejected because she knows Abby’s future belongs to someone else. I couldn’t help but feel compassion for Jordan’s predicament. God bless Abby. Her life looks perfect on paper. She’s got a job that pays well, and she’s about to receive a big promotion. She’s engaged to a man who by all accounts is perfect for her. But there’s a disconnect. Passion is what’s missing from her career and her relationship. When we first meet her, there’s a sliver of doubt in her mind, but it’s nothing she can put her finger on. The closer her wedding day gets, the more doubts she begins to have. Spending time with Jordan reminds her that her original career goals had nothing to do with a fat bank account. When she realizes that Jordan’s the spark that’s missing from her life, she doesn’t feel like there’s anything to be done. She knows what’s expected of her, and who calls off a wedding days before it’s supposed to take place? There comes a point in the story where Abby can either do what’s safe or be bold and throw caution to the wind. The build up to that point kept me riveted to this book. The Writing Style Lydon has a knack for witty writing, and it just seems to get better with each book. As with all of her previous books, I was laughing out loud at some of the character’s observations about the situations they found themselves in. Being American, the inclusion of British slang and euphemisms had me cackling. Even more lovely, beneath the story’s humor is a sweetness and intensity to Abby and Jordon’s relationship. Out of all Lydon’s books, Before You Say I Do is the slowest burn romance yet. At times it was unbearable. I found myself chanting, “Just kiss her!” The pacing of the book is spot on. (See, some of that British slang rubbed off.) The book starts out six weeks before the wedding, and Lydon makes each day count. Even if Abby and Jordan aren’t in a scene together, their time apart is just as important in moving the plot along. The Pros Goodness knows I love all things British, but part of this story is set in Cannes, France. It’s all very glamorous and high class, and it makes for the perfect backdrop for a hen party. (That’s “bachelorette party” for us Yanks). Villas with private chefs and luxury yachts scream romance so it’s no wonder Jordan and Abby struggle keeping their libidos in check. The Cons So, here’s the thing, Abby does cheat on her fiancé with Jordan. There’s no way this story could be told without that. Neither character feels good about it, and Lydon goes to great lengths to keep this from being too unseemly. This wasn’t an issue for me in the least. The Conclusion https://thelesbianreview.com/category/book-review/highly-recommended-books/victorias-favourites/ There is no such thing as a bad Clare Lydon book. She’s as reliable as rain on a bank holiday weekend. (I’m getting more British by the second!) It seems like every new book I read from her becomes my new favorite. Her ability to mix humor with deep, heartfelt emotions is dazzling. Jordan and Abby couldn’t be more likable, and I was 100% invested in their happily ever after. This is a must read if you’re looking for something to bring a smile to your face and put a skip in your step. Head on down to the Amazon link and one click this lovely romance. You won’t be disappointed. Excerpt from Before You Say I Do by Clare Lydon “I’m having trouble getting the zip done all the way up. Could you give me a hand?” Jordan walked up behind her, trying to ignore her racing heartbeat. Despite everything, her hands were steady as she grasped the zip on Abby’s dress and tugged it upwards. The dress fit perfectly. As Jordan finished, her hand grazed Abby’s bare back. Jordan stilled. She flicked her eyes upwards, and caught Abby’s gaze in the mirror. Had she gasped slightly when Jordan touched her? Whether she had or not, Jordan was still standing motionless, expression trained on Abby. The moment sat between them, pulsing. Abby was giving her a weird look. It was one Jordan had seen before. A mix of want, but also frustration. She’d glimpsed it before in her life. But never with a bride. Jordan didn’t look away for a few more moments, trying to work it out. Abby was getting married. To a man. She was simply getting carried away. Get This Book On Amazon (When you use this link we get a small commission that helps us run the site) (leave this blank, I fill it in on my side) I just read this review for Before You Say I Do by Clare Lydon Bits and Bobs ISBN number: 9781912019847 Publisher: Custard Books Clare Lydon Online www.clarelydon.co.uk If you enjoyed this book then you should also look at Marriage of Unconvenience by Chelsea M. Cameron https://thelesbianreview.com/marriage-unconvenience-cameron/ Note: I received a free review copy of Before You Say I Do by Clare Lydon. No money was exchanged for this review. When you use our links to buy we get a small commission which supports the running of this sitePublished by Custard Books

This book is a: friends to lovers romance

Read the full review here

What it’s about

Jorden Cohen has a thriving business as a professional bridesmaid. She expertly executes the traditional duties involved in wedding planning while subtly fitting in as part of the wedding party. Abby Porter is set to marry her perfect fiancé, Marcus, in six weeks, but her future mother-in-law is prepared to take over the whole production. Marcus hires Jordan to work with Abby to help run interference between her and his mother. Jorden and Abby immediately click. The more time they spend together, Abby’s forced to look at her lack of enthusiasm about her impending wedding. Why doesn’t Marcus make her feel the way Abby does?

Why I love it

Lydon unfailingly gives me stories that are witty, smart, slightly angsty, and they always include toe-curling first kisses. (The other sexy bits are just as yummy.) Abby and Jordan have great chemistry, and I was chanting, “Kiss her, kiss her,” almost from the moment they met. I love the unique premise of the story, and it might be my favorite Lydon book to date. I reread it twice during the course of the year. There’s a magic to this romance that’s guaranteed to lift your spirits.

Get It Online

When you use these links and buy within 24 hours of clicking then we get a small commission that helps us run the site and it costs you nothing extra

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Bet Against Me by Fiona Riley

Bet Against Me by Fiona RileyPublished by Bold Strokes Books

This book is an: enemies to lovers, workplace romance

Read the full review here

What it’s about

When industry leader Trina Lee loses the coveted Realtor of the Year award to newcomer Kendall Yates, she’s shocked and furious. Without hesitation, she accuses Kendall of being a no-talent fraud. This inspires their bosses to set up a contest to determine which woman is the best in the business. They are given a high-end condominium complex, and whichever woman sells the most units gets the title. Trina and Kendall start out as bitter rivals, but their blinding attraction gets the better of them. They establish an “enemies with benefits” relationship, thinking they can keep it from influencing their competition. They also agree to leave their emotions at the bedroom door. When the competition comes to a dramatic end, Trina and Kendall have to examine their feelings because somehow love crept into their hearts.

Why I love it

Enemies to lovers/workplace romance is my absolute favorite trope mash-up. It’s so ripe for drama and sexual tension, and those are my middle names. In my experience, Riley always comes through on both fronts. The dialogue in this book is so smart and sassy. Some of the barbs Trina and Kendall hurl at each other sting in all the best ways. I think Trina is terribly misunderstood. At first glance, she looks like a cut-throat, ego driven businessperson, but there’s so much more to her character that’s revealed with each turn of the page. Bonus points: The sex scenes are absolute scorchers. I see you, Ms. Riley. I see you.

Get It Online

When you use these links and buy within 24 hours of clicking then we get a small commission that helps us run the site and it costs you nothing extra

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you enjoyed Victoria’s 10 Best Books of 2020 and want more then take a look at all her favourite books here