Ms. Brannick you have done it again. I love them. I adored Damien and Harley so much!! They were quite a riot together.

Harley and Damien's story was a great next book in the Palm Springs series. After reading and loving the first one, I had high hopes for book 2 and this did not disappoint. Complicated characters with their own lives and motivations, not to mention a large cast with many other potential romances for the series. I liked how this story was woven into book 1, but you would still be able to enjoy it without having read the first one. Overall, a great read.

This was a NetGalley review.

"Tequila Tuesdays" by J. L. Brannick, the second instalment in the Palm Springs Poolside Series, struggles to live up to the promise of a gripping romantic suspense, ultimately falling short due to predictable plot elements and underdeveloped characters.

The story follows Harley, who finds herself reluctantly seeking help from Damien, a man she knows only as Dimples from a past encounter that ended with bloodshed. Despite the potential for tension and mystery, the narrative fails to deliver the depth needed to engage the reader fully.

The characters, particularly Harley and Damien, lack the complexity and development required to make their relationship and personal struggles compelling. The chemistry between them is presented as explosive, but the execution feels formulaic, making it challenging to invest in their connection. The backstory of Harley's past heartache and trauma, while hinted at, is not fully explored, leaving the reader with a sense of unfulfilled potential.

The plot, centered around Harley's missing client and the investigation that ensues, unfolds predictably with few surprises. The promise of old ghosts and new enemies fails to materialize into a truly suspenseful or thrilling narrative. The pacing is uneven, with moments of forced drama that do little to elevate the overall story.

Additionally, the writing style lacks the finesse needed to convey the emotional depth of the characters and the complexities of the plot. The dialogue, at times, feels stilted and artificial, hindering the reader's ability to fully immerse themselves in the unfolding events.

While "Tequila Tuesdays" attempts to blend romance and suspense, it falls into the trap of relying on clichés and predictable tropes, diminishing the impact of what could have been a more engaging narrative. The resolution of conflicts is too tidy, robbing the story of the tension and stakes necessary for a satisfying romantic suspense.

In conclusion, "Tequila Tuesdays" may appeal to readers seeking a light and undemanding romance with a hint of suspense. However, for those expecting a more nuanced exploration of characters and a truly gripping storyline, this instalment in the Palm Springs Poolside Series may leave them wanting more.

Thank you so much to @netgalley for the chance to review Tequila Tuesdays by J.L. Brannick. We meet Harley, a badass attorney, as she plays volleyball and spikes a ball into her nemesis’ face. He is Damien, and turns out to be a protective sweetheart. Harley works with people facing drug charges, and there is a bit of danger involved. Funny, very sexy, and fun. I loved it.

The story of Harley and Damien, who get to know each other as the book progresses. Will she give him a chance?

I really enjoyed this book! I didn't realize it was the second book in the series, so I'm getting ready to read the first one next! There is plenty of spice! There is a lot going on in this book-the characters professions have drama, romance, family issues, etc. There is some cases of domestic/child abuse and drug abuse, so keep that in mind if that is a trigger for you! I loved watching the characters fall for one another, and help each other through hard times. I would definitely recommend this to a friend!
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!

I had a really fun time reading this. Brannick had me kicking my feet and fanning my face like a schoolgirl!
"We were fireworks in July"
Let me just say that I would immediately fold for my man Damien. The chemistry between Harley and Damien is palpable. The way that their relationship progressed didn't feel rushed or overwhelming. The small signs, subtle hints and tension that occured throughout was so well done. I really liked how the narrative didn't solely center on their relationship but also on Harley's profession as a lawyer.
"Life was fleeting, and maybe it was time for me to start fully living mine."
This quote really resonated with me. I felt like Brannick's depictions of life after trauma was very realistic. She didn't shy away from the tough topic of moving on while feeling guilty in doing so. I really enjoyed how Brannick was able to incorporate the impact that addiction can have on family dynamics and how death/loss may also impact a person's view on relationships.I loved the story and all characters involved, I already have my guesses on who the next book will be about. I think I'll enjoy anything Brannick chooses to expand on in this universe.
Again, this was a really good read for me but I noticed there were a couple of typos and grammatical errors throughout the book, I felt that the flow of the story was impacted a bit by it so with that this was a 4 star book for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing Netgalley Co-op for sending this ARC to me for a chance to review it.

After reading Martini Mondays, I had to jump at the chance to read Tequila Tuesdays! Can’t wait to see what the rest of the week has in store. ;)

Harley is a criminal defense attorney, and begins working closely with Damien - an accidental volleyball rival she once hit in the face when spiking the ball. They had a cute banter, but Damien was instantly interested in taking care of her. The story follows their development into a relationship, as well as the case they’re both working on.

I enjoyed the characters and the criminal stories. I also appreciate the dynamic of Harley’s family. Great read if you like spice!

🌟🌟🌟🌟
🔥🔥.5

This was not what I expected but I really loved the story! The relationship seemed to progress really naturally without lots of drama. It was a lovely, light romcom with individual storylines running throughout. The writing is great and I really liked the friendship group element and the strong independent FMC! The MMC is totally swoony too and it does get pretty spicy towards the end!

-Romcom
-Enemies to lovers vibes
-Addiction

I have really enjoyed the Poolside Series so far. I loved this book and Harley and Damien are a new favorite couple. I enjoyed how the book brought back characters from the first book and added more unique characters. The volleyball team are my new favorites. I love how J. L Brannick dives deep into her characters to bring out the story, humor and romance.

Harley and Damien are so amazing. I love how Damien is so supportive and understanding and patient as Harley overcomes past traumas. The steam between these two is hot! Another favorite are all the drinks you learn about. You can’t go wrong with a margarita or Laurel’s martinis. I am ready and guessing who is in Whiskey Wednesday!

What to Expect:
🍹Great Characters
🍹Steamy Scenes
🍹Humor and Depth
🍹The perfect HEA

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read the ARC of this book.

If you're looking for a book with some humor, heartbreak add romance, this book is for you! Although the book is part of a series, it can be read alone. The author's ability to incorporate so many different personalities in the main characters life keeps the reader engaged. The connection to the title within the story is a bonus. Harley's (FMC) relationships with her family, Damion and the volleyball team are dynamic and create an opportunity for her to overcome obstacles while trying to find herself. I'm looking forward to the next book in the poolside series.

This ARC was so much fun to read. My favorite thing about these novels is that Brannick WAS an attorney, so when her characters are giving legal advice to their clients it feels so real and natural. I also love Damien and Harley, this is the second book in the Poolside novels, but I have to say that I think Damien and Harley are my favorite couple, their energy is absolutely electric. Anyone who likes beach-reads with open door steamy scenes would like this one.

First person
Single pov (FMC)
2 🌶

I really enjoyed this addition to the palm springs poolside series. I loved the relationship between Harley and Damien and how patient and encouraging he was with her. The story didn't just focus on their relationship, and I really liked the insight into Harley's job and some of the background of those characters.
Slight miscommunication towards the end that was quickly resolved and wasn't a big part of the story.
Can't wait for the next book to find out if I've guessed the main characters correctly.