June 5, 2023
Jackson’s dynamic and admirably inclusive sequel to The Accidental Pinup brings readers back to fashion studio Buxom Boudoir. Usually self-assured burlesque dancer Samantha Sawyer is in the midst of a crisis of confidence following her diagnosis with Graves’ disease and subsequent thyroid surgery that left her metabolism “essentially nonexistent.” To distract herself, she throws her all into her career as Buxom Boudoir’s office manager—but equally distracting is aspiring chef Russell Montgomery, the brother of her best friend’s fiancé. Russell is a dreamboat and a total flirt—a dangerous combination. Both on the verge of big career opportunities, they decide to limit their romance to just one summer. With the pressure of commitment removed, Sam’s barriers break down—but what happens when their summer fling sparks serious feelings? Jackson’s sophomore novel has all of the charm of her first, and while returning fans will be delighted to check in on characters they’ve met before, this works equally well as a standalone. The author makes Samantha’s journey to self-acceptance as her body changes achingly endearing. Surrounding its charming protagonists with a group of friends worth revisiting, this adorable rom-com has got the goods. Agent: Rebecca Podos, Rees Literary.
July 1, 2023
A summer fling amid the hard work of the Chicago festival scene quickly becomes complicated in Jackson's latest, after The Accidental Pinup. Grumpy, stressed-out Samantha is dealing with health issues, an overwhelming workload, and the unexpected reconnection of her parents, all while being admired from afar by Russ, a sexy aspiring chef trying to find his place in the world. They decide to have a no-strings-attached relationship as they spend time together working at Chicago festivals before Russ leaves town in the fall. Sam and Russ both have more baggage than an airport during the holidays, but Jackson makes the main characters so real that their hesitations and hang-ups feel realistic rather than contrived for drama. The novel is a bit of a slow burn, but patient readers will be fanning themselves over the chemistry between Sam and Russ, particularly once their fling gets going. VERDICT Rich, complicated characters shine in this well-crafted contemporary romance, an excellent late-summer beach read.--Jenny Kobiela-Mondor
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