Tools of Engagement | By Tessa Bailey

My thoughts

Narrative and Plot

Tools of Engagement is the last book in the Hot and Hammered series. As expected, this book follows Bethany and Wes’s hate-to-love romance, which we were already introduced to in the previous books. This can be read as a standalone, but I suggest you go by the order to know the characters better, otherwise, you might miss out on the importance of certain things like the Just Us League and Georgie and Travis’s wedding.

The plot focuses on Bethany and her insecurities. Also, Wes has his own baggage and problems to deal with.

Characters and Conflicts

Bethany and Wes are definitely complex characters that one can relate to. Bethany is viewed as this embodiment of perfection by everybody. But deep down, she has a lot of insecurities which have led to her man hiatus. But Wes keeps pushing her boundaries. I enjoyed their banter, which often turned into something steamy.

There was a tenderness in both Wes and Bethany’s relationship with his niece. And of course, we had the ensemble cast from the previous books. Georgie, Rosie, Travis, Dominic and Stephen and his eccentric wife added character to the overall plot.

The only thing would be, in terms of the conflict, particularly with the romance, there wasn’t something big. Just a minor inconvenience, which is the norm for a romance novel. That’s my only issue. The conflicts were minor or got resolved on their own. The stakes were raised, but never too dangerous for the main characters.

Conclusion

Overall, this is an entertaining, fun romance read. Just the kind of steamy and fantasy escape that you need to reset and rejuvenate your mind. It leaves you in a pleasant mood. Give it a try if you’re up for some light reading.

About the Author

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