Book Review: “The Valentine’s Do-Over” by Michelle Lindo-Rice
“The Valentine’s Do-Over” by Michelle Lindo-Rice (2023)
Genre: Fiction, Romance
Page Length: 288 pages (paperback review edition)
Synopsis:
Sworn off love, they’ll soon discover…
As valentines, they’re into each other!
When radio personalities Selena Cartwright and Trent Moon share their Valentine’s Day trauma stories and why they’ve sworn off love, the gala celebrating singlehood is born! Planning the event has Trent and Selena seeing—and wanting—each other more than just professionally. But if they’re found out, it could ruin their reputations and careers. As the gala approaches, can they overcome past heartache and possibly discover that Trent + Selena = True Love 4-Ever?
Review:
A sweet, heartwarming, and sultry romance themed around Valentine’s Day. I loved how the co-hosts, Selena & Trent, are opposites but both have more in common than they think. They are trying to overcome multiple obstacles in life especially when it comes to love (past romantic relationships) and family. The theme of the main characters being anti-Valentine’s Day and then having to host a Valentine’s Day gala for singles (for their radio show) was really fun.
Being that Selena is a therapist I appreciate how the story focuses on mental health issues, especially within the Black Community (and the nuances surrounding that). Though the romance moves at a fast pace it felt very natural, since Selena and Trent have worked together for a long time. The romance aspects were fun, flirty, and entertaining. The two have a great rapport and natural chemistry that makes their romance feel very real.
I also appreciated the themes of grief and letting go that have been tackled in the plot. This is the type of romance story I love to see in Harlequin novels (especially for Black-centered stories). I will definitely be reading more from the author in the future. This a great romance read for Valentine’s Day!
Final Verdict:
FTC Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.
This does sound like it has some deeper themes – and more representation of diversity! – than Harlequin traditionally did, so well done to them for that. And well done to you for reading it in time for Valentine’s Day!
I agree. Harlequin has gotten much better about representation/diversity in their books. It’s nice to see more of variety in their romances.