I am utterly obsessed with all things Jasmine Guillory.

I loved this story--the banter, the romantic chemistry, and of course, shenanigans!

It's always wonderful reading books featuring Black/Brown characters, and it's even better when it's own voices!

Another solid read that I'm happy to purchase on release day!

Jasmine Guillory returns with another sweet-as-cake love story woven with timely real-world issues and a relatable, grounded realism. Olivia, whom readers will recognize as Alexa's sister from a few of Guillory's previous titles, is one-half of this Party of Two. She's just moved back to California, making her new home and jump-starting her own law firm in sunny L.A. While launching a brand-new law firm with one of her best friends is scary and exciting at the same time, it's a bit out of character for Olivia -- she prefers to think things through, weighing pros and cons, and possible backfires, before making decisions. So Olivia is ready to pour all of herself into this new venture, but wasn't expecting a handsome stranger who calls himself Max to pull her attention away... Max has his own career to keep him pulled in a variety of directions. As junior Senator Maxwell Stewart Powell III, a lot of expectations are set for him and he's driven to meet each and every one of them. When Olivia finds out Max is a senator, she doesn't quite know what to think. But once she realizes he's got the heart of Mr. Smith going to Washington, the brains of the finest lawyers she's known, and is just oozing charm, she falls -- hard. Max is the first guy to love her for exactly who she is, with confidence and without apology. But the limelight of his political position is enough to break even the most confident of people...

Thoughts: I love that Jasmine Guillory weaves social justice throughout all of her books. Readers are not only introduced to likable characters that we wish we actually knew in real life, but some of us are educated in social justice issues we may take for granted while others may relate to the realistic struggles her characters live through on a daily basis. Guillory's books aren't incredibly dramatic because the focus isn't necessarily on some major event. Instead, readers get to focus on and experience the realistic ups and downs of characters whose story could easily be taking place in real life. The only unrealistic part? All of the burgers, fries, cakes, and pies these two eat! Yeah, Olivia talks about her trips to the gym and we're treated to several inner monologues from her point-of-view declaring how built and good-looking Max is, but honestly, I'm jealous of how much cake and fried food they get to eat! Seriously though, this is another hit for Guillory and I'm looking forward to her next title!

If you've read Guillory before, you know what to expect- a fun, and funny, light romp through a relationship that hits all the notes of a modern romance novel right on schedule. There are some passionate scenes, but the focus is on two (mostly) realistic people trying to navigate the beginnings of a relationship while balancing well-established careers and lives. Entertaining, quick summer read that provides needed relief to 2020.

Recommended for people who enjoy Jennifer Weiner, but want something lighter and more focused on "the chase" of a relationship, or readers of Janet Evanovich, but want something less silly. Perfect for anyone who reads Susan Elizabeth Phillips, Rachel Gibson or the like.

Another great addition to Jasmine Guillory’s The Wedding Date series. Olivia and Max are such an awesome pair to follow through their ups and downs. Their understanding of each other made this a pleasure to read!

There was a lot to like about this book: two fully realized adult characters navigating dating in a very tricky situation. The conversations they had and the growing they did together felt very real, even though not everyone dates a public figure. I also super enjoyed how Guillory didn't shy away from the sexism, racism, classism that Olivia experienced. I've read almost all of Guillory's novels and I feel like she was much more deliberate in including all of those very real issues in Party of Two.

That being said, there was something missing. I liked the characters and the romance over all, but for some reason this book didn't hit me in the feels. Great writing, great characters, but didn't send me swooning.

I loved this book! Such a fan of Jasmine Guillory! I love that she writes such relatable, badass female characters. Always a sucker for books taking place in L.A.
Not going to lie, as soon as I read about the "gelled back hair" I couldn't help but think of our state's governor and laugh. I tried not to keep imagining him as Max but failed several times LOL
Their chemistry and adoration for each other was super sweet to follow. If I had to change something, I would have thrown in a tiny bit more conflict but their blow up was definitely justified. Wondering if this brings this set of characters to a close?

Olivia Munroe has recently moved from NYC back to the West Coast to start her own law firm with her best friend. She's finally her own boss and intent on focusing her energies into making their firm succeed. On one of her first nights back in town she meets a handsome stranger at her hotel bar. They flirt, they share dessert, they part ways. Little does she know that this handsome stranger is California Senator Max Powell (resident Congress heart throb). They end up running into each other a few weeks later at a fundraiser and eventually start dating. Their relationship progresses and they navigate the waters of what it means to be a couple in the public eye and the ways that the past can be brought to light. And, of course, there is lots of good food along the way!

I've read several of Guillory's novels and this has been my favorite one so far! What I love about her storytelling (besides the food) is the depth that she brings to her characters. Identity always plays a big role in her stories and that, to me, makes her characters more relatable than other romance novels I've read. In Party of Two, she tackles interracial relationship dynamics, white privilege, the flawed criminal justice system, and feminism. Weaving these themes into stories of Black joy is what I love about her writing and storytelling. I'll note that this book was significantly less steamy than some of her other books I've read.

A perfect fluffy modern romance, ideal for people who feel a responsibility to keep up with current events and fight for justice but also need a guaranteed happily ever after now and then.

Pleasantly Surprised!

The first book I read by Jasmine Guillory wasn't my favorite. I tend to stay away from an author once I DNF'd a book but after talking to a few friends about Party Of Two, they said it was her best book yet, and I'd definitely love it. So I bought a copy, and WOW. I just want to say that I love interracial relationships. I don't think enough authors write about couples like this, and they should! I think when you read a book, the book becomes better when we can relate to characters, and Jasmine brings up some tough topics about interracial relationships that made me want to hug the characters. I absolutely loved it! I recommend it to all romance lovers!

This book did not disappoint. Jasmine Guillory brought all the warmth and happiness as only she can, and the food, oh wow how I loved all the references to food, I think I might have gained an extra few pounds while reading this book because I always wanted a snack.

The story was fun, charming and I couldn't get enough. The characters were so beautifully written, well-rounded, and easy to like. I enjoyed kick-ass Olivia as a character and I related to her so much, she was probably one of my favourite Guillory heroines.

This book came at the perfect time for me and I devoured it. Lovely read!

3.5 Stars

Guillory’s latest is a low angst, July 4th themed romance all around meeting someone unexpected and having an instant connection.

Meet Olivia Monroe, a lawyer who has started a law firm with her best friend, all round badass (oops, can I say that in my review?). She’s ready to take on the world and stop being tied down to all the stigmas that come with being a woman in her field. So, when she meets a guy at the hotel bar and instantly connects over the topic of desserts (swoon) she’s thinking fling.

Our guy, Max Powell, he’s not just a regular guy but a US Senator, it’s not in the blurb but I don’t think I’m spoiling anything by sharing that. He’s got eyes on him all the time and is working to sponsor some mega changes with his platform. In a nutshell this is Max:

How was it that some like him, who spent all day every day talking to people, felt so lonely for personal connection, and so happy to have found it, if only for a little while?

So, two complete opposites, meet and instantly connect. They don’t act, then run into each again, and this time more sparks fly. It’s not enemies to lovers, but a touch of instant-lust that turns into a slow burn as Max seeks more than just a simple fling and Olivia opens up to the idea of being available to possibilities.

I enjoyed the premise, the characters themselves, but I’ll admit there wasn’t a lot of pacing action. There is some back and forth of will they, won’t they, though this story is more a long song and dance of falling for each other. It’s a slow paced, feel good falling. There is a bit of drama, some great insight into modern day challenges that woman face, especially when dating high profile men. For me this story was too easy to put down and walk away, though for someone looking for a nice feel good romance this one might be for you.

Overall, Guillory’s romances are sweet, filled with laughter, fun dialogue and great characterization. Though the plot and pacing miss the marks for me. This is perfect for readers who enjoy Josie Silver or Lyssa Kay Adams.

~ Landra

Another lovely rom-com from Jasmine Guillory. Her characters are complicated, her world is diverse, and the sex is hot. That said, I hope that she will feature a queer couple as the main characters in a future novel.

I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS BOOK!! Olivia & Max are the sweetest book couple that I’ve read about lately. The Introduction of cake and pies throughout this book have me so hungry. Looking forward to recommending this one to patrons of my library & my book clubs for a fun summer read. Thank you NetGalley for the Advanced Reader Copy.

A sexy, of-the-moment contemporary romance with a winning heroine. Jasmine Guillory delivers again in the smart romance category. A big plus, the political questions of the day in terms of racial justice and mass incarnation draw the two main characters together and hold the audience attention. Not your usual meet-cute. Well done.

Another terrific romance from Jasmine Guillory, with memorable characters, a diverse cast, an engaging love story, and a strong social justice awareness that gives the books an added dimension and sense of groundedness. I've loved all her books so far, and this one is a great addition! Don't miss it.

This book was a fun read, however I found it a little fluffy and a little unrealistic. It was a charming story but I felt in some ways it lacked a lot of depth. It would be a great beach read! I did like the side story of Jamila and the community centre and how it gave Olivia a sense of purpose and fullfillment to help out there. I think the main couple could have faced a couple of more obstacles than they did, however it did make it interesting to see Olivia finally reach the point where she could accept Max's lifestyle and that her love was stronger than her fears.

Thank you to netgalley for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Another fantastic book by Jasmine Guillory! Her books are always so engaging! This story centers on attorney Olivia Monroe, older sister to the protagonist from Jasmine’s first novel, and Max Powell, an up and coming senator. In this book, Max and Olivia have to grapple with their differences as their relationship grows. Because of Max’s high profile job, they have to go on clandestine dates. However, as the relationship goes public, difficulties arise and they must come to terms with their differences.

Jasmine always creates enjoyable characters and story lines and her writing is absolutely top notch. I love how she writes entertaining characters and story lines but incorporates important social issues as well. Especially in this current climate, it is extremely timely. Overall, Jasmine’s books are always must reads for me and I always recommend them to everyone! This book is right up there!

Party of Two is a delightful romance set against a very timely backdrop concerning interracial relationships and the political climate. Olivia Monroe has just moved to LA to start her own law firm, alongside her best friend and fellow attorney, Ellie. When she meets a random, really hot, white dude in the hotel bar and they have a conversation about pie and life, she is left feeling like the move to LA was the right decision. She never dreamed that she would see him again, but she enjoyed the short time she had with him, nonetheless. Then she is flipping channels on the tv and hears his unmistakable voice. Holy crap - the guy from the bar is Senator Max Powell. She can hardly believe 1) that he made time to talk to and flirt with her - just a regular middle aged Black woman in a power suit and 2) that she didn't recognize him right away. But then, she is completely blown away when Max sends a cake to her office the next day, followed by an invitation to a date. Sure, being the girlfriend of a hot, super rich Senator has its perks, but Olivia quickly finds out that being in the limelight and scrutinized by the media is not where she wants to be at all. But Max is so wonderful, and she finds herself falling for him. How can she keep the guy, but also keep her low-key lifestyle? You'll love this somewhat steamy and amazingly written romance by the wonderful Jasmine Guillory.

Party of Two is such a wholesome and mature book, it blew me away.

This is my first book by Jasmine Guillory and I have to say, I loved every second of it.

The writing is very good and Guillory can write very relatable and realistic characters and dialogue. This is very important for me because in romance, if I can’t relate or feel that the character is very generic, there’s a very high chance I won’t enjoy it.

Olivia and Max were super likeable characters with flaws and complex personalities. I think they complemented each other in very obvious ways, like when it comes to privacy and spontaneity in which they are polar opposites but try to meet each other in the middle, but also in subtle ways, like in the ways they ask each other for opinions/ give ideas in regards to their professional lives.

The romance in this book is so so cute and wholesome. This is probably the sweetest book I’ve ever read. Olivia and Max’s chemistry is undeniable and their flirty moments were super adorable. I just can’t stop gushing about how cute these two are.

They overcame their differences and worked together to make their relationship work. They learned from their mistakes and made up for it. I’m just in awe at how they handled everything without any unnecessary drama - that might be because the characters are older than I’m used to reading about, even in adult romance.

My favourite part, however, has to be all the cake talk. I don’t like chocolate but just thinking about cakes and pies made my mouth water 70% of the time!

I’m definitely reading more books by Jasmine Guillory in the future! I’m in love with how she writes her characters and I have a feeling I’ll love her other books just as much.

This is a mature, cute and funny romance and I recommend it to every romance lover out there!

**4.5-stars**

My favorite Guillory yet!!!

Party of Two follows Olivia Monroe, Alexa's older sister, just after she returns to California to open her own law firm with her long-time friend, Ellie. Olivia had been in NYC since law school and when the opportunity presented itself for her to get out of the big firm game, and all the negative aspects that came with it, and move closer to her family, she jumps on it.

Setting up temporary lodging at a L.A. hotel, she has a lot on her plate. In addition to all of the busy work starting a new business entails, she also needs to find a more permanent place to live, buy a car and get a lot of networking done. The last thing she is thinking about is starting a relationship. That is, until a very handsome man at the hotel bar starts chatting her up over one of her favorite topics: DESSERT!

She is polite and does enjoy talking to him, but seriously, the last thing she needs is to hook up with a stranger from her hotel bar. He was charming though. Those eyes...Saying their goodbyes, Olivia heads back to her room, exhausted. As she turns on the television, she can't believe her eyes. It's the man from the bar!

Senator Max Powell.

When the two accidentally run into each other again, the spark is still there and this time, there's no turning Max away. Y'all, this book was so much fun! As mentioned above, it's my favorite of The Wedding Date series thus far. I think as far as protagonists go, I related to Olivia the most. I love how analytically she views her world and the cautious way she has of interacting with others.

I liked that she did fall all over herself just because a cute guy was paying attention to her. She had her own goals and wasn't letting anything distract her from reaching them. Max as a male lead was great. I loved how earnest he was with his feelings and how genuine his intentions were toward Olivia.

I would say in comparison to the earlier novels in the series, this one had more of a solid foundation to the relationship. There wasn't as much unnecessary drama, which I appreciated. I liked the open communication between Olivia and Max. They both exuded maturity which could be expected with two such successful people.

We saw a lot behind the scenes of Max's life as Senator, the travel required, the staff, the schmoozing. I love politics in books, so was definitely down for all that. In addition to the normal things you go through when starting a new relationship, Olivia and Max had to navigate surviving a long distance relationship and the paparazzi.

If there would have been a couple more sex scenes, this could have been a full five stars. However, in this installment, there was more dessert than sex and sometimes, that's okay. Overall, this is a great summer romance.

Thank you so much to the publisher, Berkley Books, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I appreciate it so much and would be more than happy to get more books in this series.