2.5 Stars

Getting into this book was difficult. It started off slow and I thought it was going to be a DNF read for me. However, I continued to push to read it and finished it. Cameron and Jasmine aren't big believers in marriage, especially after how their relationships have gone in the past. Despite not liking either character in the beginning, Cameron's pursuit to win Jasmine over was sweet and his promise of being there for her showed how honorable the hero was.

Moreover, I found it hard to connect with the characters and found their connection lacked the full on chemistry I tend to see in the romance novels I read. Jasmine is very weary of Cameron and finds it very hard to trust the fact he wants to spend time with her, which I found difficult to deal with too. Just because her last relationship was a mess doesn't mean things with Cameron can't turn out well, especially when he's doing everything he can to win her over. Yet, in saying that, Cameron and Jasmine did start to win me over in the end and I'm glad they found happiness.

Thank you so much for the opportunity to review this book and to be an early reader via NetGalley! However, I will not be writing a review for this title at this time, as my reading preferences have since changed somewhat. In the event that I decide to review the book in the future, I will make sure to purchase a copy for myself or borrow it from a library. Once again, thank you so much for providing me with early access to this title. I truly appreciate it. Please feel free to contact me with any follow-up questions or concerns.

Jasmine Washington worked with Hannah DuPont-Lowell at a bank and when they were laid off at the same timer became friends. Hannah decided to turn her ancestral home in New Orleans into a B&B and wanted Jasmine to be the HR person for the project, but Jasmine wasn't sure she wanted to leave NY. Visiting NO for Hannah's wedding, Jasmine met Cameron Singleton, but she since she was returning to NY didn't think that there was a chance for them. 7 month's later Cameron is visiting NY and contacts Jasmine for a dinner date. They enjoy each other's company and share a week of fun and frolic.

Jasmine decides to take Hannah up on her offer and goes to NO, seeing Cameron as well. When she realizes that she is pregnant from their week in NY, Jasmine and Cameron have decisions to make about the future.

New Orleans and the characters are very much alive because of the vivid descriptions throughout the story. Looking forward to the next installment.

Room Service was good but not my favorite in the series. However I did enjoy it. My only issue is the price for these books when I recommend to friends is a little high.

A beautiful story of starting over and the wonders of love, this book is a perfect fireside tale to warm your heart and soul....

Stevie‘s review of Room Service (The Innkeepers, Book 3) by Rochelle Alers
Contemporary Romance published by Dafina 31 Jul 18

In my continuing efforts to read more new-to-me authors across a wider range of subgenres, I’ve been trying to overcome my fear of diving into series partway through. This time, I started with the third of a four-book story arc, in which four relatively mature women, united by losing their jobs on the same day, search for new career directions and find love along the way.


Jasmine Washington built up a successful interior decorating business before turning over the day-to-day running of the company to her husband, in order to begin a second career as a human resources manager. When she lost her job unexpectedly, she made friends with three other professional women let go from the firm on the same day. Having discovered her husband was cheating on her, Jasmine divorced him and sold the decorating business; now she’s working part-time for non-profit organisations while she figures out her next move. Understandably distrusting of men, Jasmine agrees to a no-strings date with a man she met at the wedding of one of her new friends; Cameron Singleton is only in New York on a brief visit, so there’s no chance they will get tangled up in a messy relationship – and Jasmine is definitely over any kind of long-distance romance, since that’s how she met her ex.

Cameron is an investment banker, working for his family’s firm in New Orleans, who visits New York a couple of times a year to catch up with his old buddies from university. Having witnessed all the bad aspects of his parents’ turbulent marriage, he is keen not to be tied down and makes a point of having short-term relationships with younger women. Jasmine is older than Cameron’s usual type, but he finds he enjoys spending time with her, as one date turns into several, and then into a promise to meet up again for the wedding of a second of Jasmine’s new friends. Throughout all this getting to know each other, there is a lot of exchanging of backstories, without Cameron letting on just how influential his family is. Even in the early stages, however, he comes across as controlling and borderline emotionally abusive, though we’re repeatedly reminded that he’s not as bad as Jasmine’s ex, who was only after her money all along.

Once the action moves to New Orleans, and Jasmine finds out that she’s pregnant, Cameron, to my eyes, turns into a complete monster, moving Jasmine into the hotel he owns and lives in – in an adjacent suite to his, but still another sign of his controlling personality. I read the book to the end in the hope that Cameron would either learn to be a decent human being or get his comeuppance, but neither happened. Cameron’s family is no better, and I was disappointed that Jasmine’s friends seemed to think that all this was normal behaviour for rich folks and something to be tolerated as an alternative to Jasmine being taken for every penny she had by her ex.

On top of all that, more than one character used ‘living an alternative lifestyle’ as a euphemism for being gay. As a bisexual who has dipped into several alternative subcultures before finding a home with the steampunk contingent, I find conflating these two disparate aspects of personality to be highly offensive. It’s possible to be very, very conventional and still be attracted to one’s own or more than one gender, just as it’s very common for heterosexuals to be goths, gamers, steampunks, or SF fans. Rant over, I don’t think I’ll be going anywhere near this author again.

Grade: F

Room Service by Rochelle Alers is the third book in the series named Innkeepers. It is the first book I have read by Rochelle Alers and the first book I have read in the series. I didn’t find it too hard to keep up with all the people and information even though I have not read the previous books.

Jasmine Washington was an interior decorator and then worked in HR for a large office. She has been burned by her ex husband and does not trust men any longer. She is pals with three other women who all worked for the same business until the business downsized and they were all out of jobs. Jasmine has worked a temporary job. She has determined to take the summer off and then leave for New Orleans for her friend’s wedding. There are obstacles toward her moving forward but she is willing to face them.

Cameron Singleton meets Jasmine at a wedding of a mutual friend, but does not live in NYC like Jasmine. However, when he came up to hang with some college friends, he contacts her and they have dinner, dinner and then more food and drinks. Cameron wants Jasmine but is not interested in marriage. Luckily Jasmine feels the same. Together tho, they are hot and definitely interested in each other!

The book was a fun read and I wanted the book to end happily for Jasmine and Cameron. I felt the book was slow at the beginning with so much time spent in Jasmine’s head relaying information from previous storylines. Once the story moved into both Cameron and Jasmine, I felt the book moved quickly and was much more interesting. Room Service by Rochelle Alers was a good read.

The series continues about 4 women who inadvertently became friends after their lives were changed due to a job downsizing and taking a chance on new career paths.

Jasmine Washington had a successful business and a high-powered marriage with hopes of becoming a mother when everything fell apart after an unforgivable betrayal was revealed. That betrayal changed her views on marriage, trust and relationships. At her friend Hannah's wedding she is introduced to investment banker Cameron Singleton, who makes it very obvious that he is attracted to her.

Jasmine and Cameron both have skeptical views regarding marriage. But their passion will bring about an unexpected surprise that will challenge those views.

Romances focusing on older adults are rare in today’s market, so I was delighted when I learned Rochelle Aler’s Room Service features a hero and heroine in their forties. This is book three of a trio about more mature heroines, but you don’t have to read the first two books to enjoy this one.

Jobless but by no means destitute, Jasmine Washington can afford to take some time to decide what she plans to do next. A dedicated New Yorker, she doesn’t really want to leave the city she loves, but an opportunity – in the form of co-managing the new luxury inn her friend is about to open in New Orleans – is calling her south. She has plans to use another friend’s wedding in the area as an excuse to hang out in the Big Easy, enjoy the fine food, culture and music and see if she really wants to make a change. Then she gets the phone call.

Cameron Singleton had met Jasmine at a friend’s reception the previous year and hasn’t been able to get her out of his mind. In New York for a reunion with some college friends, he gives her a call to see if she’s willing to meet with him. She is. They have dinner, then follow-up with a lunch at her aunt’s inn. He’s amazed at how quickly he’s falling for her; she’s amazed she’s dating at all after the devastation her ex made of her heart. Realistically, though, how much of a future can they have if Jasmine decides to stay in New York when Cameron returns to New Orleans?

This is a sweet story which offers a long, slow look at taking a second chance on love. Cameron and Jasmine are both cautious daters because their experiences of romance and marriage haven’t been great. Cameron’s parents had an extremely volatile relationship and he has avoided long term entanglements for four decades as a result. Jasmine’s parents had a great relationship and she had been a firm believer in marriage until her ex-husband broke her heart. It wasn’t just that he cheated but all the circumstances surrounding the cheating that have left her cautious of forming another permanent relationship. The fact that Cameron understands her hurts and fears makes it easier on Jasmine to see a future with him. They are both anxious to get this relationship right, to fully understand each other before committing and to leave any risk-taking they do to other portions of their life.

The author’s detailed, languid style of writing is perfect for this particular couple. The tale concentrates on how well suited Jasmine and Cameron are and how they speak to each other’s concerns regarding commitment. Emphasis is put on how they fit into each other’s diverse circle of friends and family. Jasmine, the daughter of a Filipino mother and African-American father, has family everywhere and needs someone who belongs in her cosmopolitan lifestyle, which Cameron definitely does. Cameron is a wealthy man who comes from a rich family and appreciates that Jasmine’s sophistication enables her to move in his world with ease. One of the nicest aspects of having the story be about two established adults was the absolute financial security both had. They could discuss a long-term relationship involving plane travel or keeping homes in two locations because they could easily afford it.

There is not a lot of action here, but Room Service does a great job showing two people trying to live their best lives and deciding they are better together than apart. It’s perfect for beach or pool side when you are looking more for entertainment than adventure.

I have read the other two books in the series and I was glad to catch up on the characters. Jasmine and Cameron's story was like a real-life romance. At times the descriptions slowed down the pacing. I love the happy-ever-after but there wasn't a lot of conflict. I am looking forward to the other two books in the series. Thank you Netgalley for this ARC.

I received an ARC of Room Service from the publisher through Netgalley. While I enjoyed the second chance romance between an older couple, and the descriptions of locations from NYC, and Long Island tp New Orleans, I think I would have enjoyed it more if I had read the previous books in this series.. Jasmine and Cameron were given full descriptions, but I felt I was missing things about the secondary characters. There was not much tension in this story. I found myself waiting for something to happen. Room Service is a light easy read, good for times when you don’t want to be kept up at night.

Jasmine and Cameron- talk about second chance romance. She's had a tough run and now is in New Orleans running an inn. No interest in love but then...Cameron. These two start out, par for the course, as two people from different perspectives but well, you know what's going to happen! and in this one, a little more happens :). This is part of a series but I don't think you need to have read the earlier books because each features one of four women- and this is Jasmine's story. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. This is one of those light quick reads that is, let's admit it, somewhat predictable but also enjoyable.

Great premise, but the characters seemed a bit two dimensional, and the writing dry and predictable. Not my cup of tea, although many readers enjoy her books.

The third book in the series, this is a very smooth, easy read. Almost too smooth, though, because it seemed to lack any real conflict. Yes, both the heroine and hero have their history and baggage, but it doesn’t amount to any drama. That’s really nice for a real-life relationship, but makes it a little less fun to read about. That being said, I still thoroughly enjoyed revisiting these characters in New York and New Orleans.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

I received a complimentary copy of "Room Service" from NetGallery and all opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
My thoughts about this book are based on reading this 3rd book in the series. I did not realize this was a series, needless to say, I have not read the previous books. I feel that having the background from the previous books would have given me a better Idea of the characters, I feel the history of the relationships between the characters was important to know, at least for me.
With that being said, I did enjoy the book and would like to read the first two books in the series and reread "Room Service." It was a nice, light read and watching the relationship between Jasmine and Cameron develop was enjoyable.

Romances focusing on older adults are rare in today’s market, so I was delighted when I learned Rochelle Aler’s Room Service features a hero and heroine in their forties. This is book three of a trio about more mature heroines, but you don’t have to read the first two books to enjoy this one.

Jobless but by no means destitute, Jasmine Washington can afford to take some time to decide what she plans to do next. A dedicated New Yorker, she doesn’t really want to leave the city she loves, but an opportunity - in the form of co-managing the new luxury inn her friend is about to open in New Orleans -  is calling her south. She has plans to use another friend’s wedding in the area as an excuse to hang out in the Big Easy, enjoy the fine food, culture and music and see if she really wants to make a change. Then she gets the phone call.

Cameron Singleton had met Jasmine at a friend’s reception the previous year and hasn’t been able to get her out of his mind. In New York for a reunion with some college friends, he gives her a call to see if she’s willing to meet with him. She is. They have dinner, then follow-up with a lunch at her aunt’s inn. He’s amazed at how quickly he’s falling for her; she’s amazed she’s dating at all after the devastation her ex made of her heart. Realistically, though, how much of a future can they have if Jasmine decides to stay in New York when Cameron returns to New Orleans?

This is a sweet story which offers a long, slow look at taking a second chance on love. Cameron and Jasmine are both cautious daters because their experiences of romance and marriage haven’t been great. Cameron’s parents had an extremely volatile relationship and he has avoided long term entanglements for four decades as a result. Jasmine’s parents had a great relationship and she had been a firm believer in marriage until her ex-husband broke her heart. It wasn’t just that he cheated but all the circumstances surrounding the cheating that have left her cautious of forming another permanent relationship. The fact that Cameron understands her hurts and fears makes it easier on Jasmine to see a future with him. They are both anxious to get this relationship right, to fully understand each other before committing and to leave any risk-taking they do to other portions of their life.

The author’s detailed, languid style of writing is perfect for this particular couple. The tale concentrates on how well suited Jasmine and Cameron are and how they speak to each other’s concerns regarding commitment. Emphasis is put on how they fit into each other’s diverse circle of friends and family. Jasmine, the daughter of a Filipino mother and African-American father, has family everywhere and needs someone who belongs in her cosmopolitan lifestyle, which Cameron definitely does. Cameron is a wealthy man who comes from a rich family and appreciates that Jasmine’s sophistication enables her to move in his world with ease. One of the nicest aspects of having the story be about two established adults was the absolute financial security both had. They could discuss a long-term relationship involving plane travel or keeping homes in two locations because they could easily afford it.

There is not a lot of action here, but Room Service does a great job showing two people trying to live their best lives and deciding they are better together than apart. It’s perfect for beach or pool side when you are looking more for entertainment than adventure.

Buy it at: Amazon/Barnes & Noble/iBooks/Kobo

The third book in The Innkeepers series is a delightful continuation of the story of four women who become good friends and the relationships they develop. This book is Jasmine's story, and the relationship between her and Cameron is a captivating story to watch unfold. Neither is looking for love, neither is interested in marriage, and yet the pull bringing them together is undeniable. Rochelle Alers, with her wonderful descriptions and story telling, brings the characters to life. I look forward to book 4.

In Room Service, we meet Cameron and Jasmine two people who polar opposites, but similar in ways. Their story begins in New Orleans, continues in New York, and some how makes it way back to New Orleans. Cameron is a honest playboy and Jasmine is lovable woman. Room Service showcases what happens when you remove your fears and let your heart guide you. It was a slow read from beginning to end. I am normally a fan of Rochelle Alers, but Room Service did not capture me. I felt as though something was missing. If you like a simple and less complicated love story, Room Service is for you,

I've enjoyed the Innkeepers series, but Room Service was not for me. I wanted a new story. This story felt old and recycled. The names and locations may differ, but general plot is the same. I wanted more and think the story could've been expanded in many different ways. The secondary characters, from previous books, were pretty much non existent.

Room Service is an interesting story that looks at second-chance love. It features Jasmine, a 42-year-old woman who is still a bit shy of relationships after a failed marriage. She spends a good chunk of the book avoiding the advances of, and later feelings toward, Cameron, a 48-year-old bachelor. I appreciated that the main characters were older than what is usually seen in romances. It showed that the search for love doesn't have an age limit.

The settings in this story are vivid, with much of the action being split between New York City and New Orleans. That Jasmine is an interior decorator also provided an interesting look at the interior spaces they visit, with strong images provided for buildings, furniture, and art.

The plot itself is good. It’s believable and the characters are relatable. I did find the reactions that Jasmine and Cameron had to each other at times seemed a bit less than plausible, but not so much that I couldn't find it realistic at all. I did, however, find their honesty with each other to be refreshing.

My greatest critique is that the writing style can be repetitive or unnecessarily descriptive. Some details were provided over and again, without truly adding new depth. Also, at times descriptions and background were dropped in without much context or seemed extraneous. I noticed this more at the beginning of the book, so I assume it was meant to provide context. I just don't think it was executed in a way that flowed naturally.

Overall, this is a good story. It kept me interested, and provided a few plot twists I didn't expect.