Kissing a Stranger by Lacey Black
The Kissing Games #4
July 13, 2023- Self-Published
ARC

Review by Angela

So, uh, this book is quite a bit sexier than the previous installments in this multi-author series. If you’ve read the whole series so far, you’ve met Adeline and Decker already. Adeline is a bridesmaid in the wedding that didn’t happen, and Decker is a bartender at the resort. I was going to lead that their relationship started with a kiss, just like in the other books, but Decker and Adeline do much more than kiss when they first meet.

Adeline is an attorney in her father’s firm but is not respected or utilized to the best of her abilities. Instead, her father emotionally abuses her at every turn, using her as a pawn to further his goals. Adline doesn’t have many friends and is not close to her neglectful parents. Her only real friend is Audrey, the would-be bride, and her father is not amused that she has taken off to Florida for her wedding. After the wedding ends in disaster, Adeline decides to stay for another week and spend time having fun and doing what SHE wants- which is Decker.

This book does build Decker and Adeline’s relationship nicely, but it also focuses on Adeline’s journey to independence and freedom. Decker is just a nice guy, and he gives Adeline the attention and care she’s been missing her whole life. He is also running from something, so he understands what she is going through. For most of the book they explore the area surrounding the resort, spend time together, have lots of sexy times, and enjoy themselves. The main conflict doesn’t resolve itself until right at the end, and the drama is over rather quickly. Almost too quickly.

This was a fast, enjoyable read. The only couple left is Jasper and Lorelei, the married couple who are apparently going through some things. I’m usually a sucker for marriage in trouble romances, so I’m eagerly awaiting the conclusion to the series.

Grade- B-

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