Mel, a talented bartender still recovering from her divorce, meets Bebe, a charming and sexy lawyer, during a shift one night. Even when she finds out that Bebe is married and polyamorous, she finds herself irresistibly drawn to her, as well as Bebe's wife, Kade. And while she figures out her place in the relationship, Mel is also preparing for a major bartending competition that could open so many professional doors...

If you don't already know much about polyamorous relationships, this book will teach you. Though the build up is a bit slow and there is a lot of secondhand embarrassment to go around, Alexander creates a realistic relationship between Mel, Bebe, and Kade that addresses the complexity of poly relationships and the difficulty of trusting your feelings again after heartbreak. Approachable and educational without being pedantic, Triple Sec is also a love letter to cocktails and mixology without being pretentious. Spicy, enjoyable, intoxicating.

Thank you to NetGalley and Atria for the opportunity to read Triple Sec early in exchange for a review.

In a lot of ways, this is a quieter love story. It involves three people who begin as a married couple and a person one is interested in. It evolves over time with lots of communication and growing pains into a poly relationship.
I loved watching Mel navigate this new relationship as well as her evolution as a bartender with mad cocktail skills.
I would have liked to see a bit more of Bebe outside her partners.

This is one of my favorite books of 2024 so far! I love a sapphic poly romance with character development. Will be swooning over this book and its characters for a long time! Thanks NetGalley for the ARC

Thank you to Atria and Net Galley for this advanced copy.

This book is a beautiful ode to New York, and finding and becoming yourself in it. Mel showed we’re never really done growing or learning, even after we’ve been hurt. Triple Sec taught me about intersectionality, genderfluidity, and just—love. I loved Kade’s take on jealousy and its place in healthy relationships, queer or otherwise. And Bebe is magnetic. I want her as my friend. This was my first TJ Alexander, but it won’t be my last!

This is a hard DNF! I stopped at the 41% mark. I was bored the entire time and it never picked up. The polyamory did not feel real and just no connection at all. Not even the bartending part was interesting. This was disappointing.

After reading and loving Second Chances in New Port Stephen, I was thrilled to get hold of a copy of Triple Sec and could hardly wait to start reading. TJ Alexander's new novel stretched my boundaries, as this is the first polyamorous romance I have read, but I really enjoyed the story, loved the characters, and was completely smitten with each of them. As an added plus, I really enjoy a good cocktail, so the high-end mixology was a fun aspect of this novel.

For readers who prefer the spice to be closed door, this is definitely not the book for you! I am not a prudish reader, but that was one aspect of the book that I found a little bit much even for my spicy tastes. Overall, it was not a deal breaker, I just didn't feel that the explicit scenes were entirely necessary and to a small degree interfered with the believability of the emotional love story.

I respect TJ Alexander's forays into representing queer persons in their novels with wit and compassion very much, and look forward to their next novel very much! Thank you to Netgalley and Atria Books for the digital ARC of Triple Sec by TJ Alexander. The opinions in this review are my own.

Thank you to Atria Books for the ARC via Net Galley!

I have been trying to get more into romance as a genre, particularly queer romance, more this year since I am becoming more comfortable with my own queer journey. “Triple Sec” was the wonderful blend of flirtation, spice, and genuine human connection that I was looking for. It was breathtaking for some poly representation that was handled with care and reality. I enjoyed the read so much, and I look forward to looking more into TJ Alexander’s other works.

Mel is a bartender at Terror & Virtue, a swanky New York City cocktail. And that’s pretty much her life, as her recovery from divorce has been…not going well. But, that all changes when Bebe walks into the bar. They have an instant connection that Mel decides to take a gamble on, when Bebe offers to take her on a date, since she and her wife, Kade, have an open marriage. Things progress pretty quickly, emotionally and physically, and quite soon, Mel finds herself in over her head (or at least, that’s what it feels like) with Bebe. And not just with Bebe. Despite thinking Kade hated her, it turns out, they just express themselves in a much more subdued way. And the attraction/connection between Mel and Kade morphs into something greater as well. So, of course, then all three must figure out how they fit together in a way that works for each/all. At the same time, Mel is facing some low-key terrible workplace admin changes and enters a cocktail competition that has the potential to completely change her future. Honestly there are a lot of things going on that could completely change Mel’s life…and all for the better, if she can figure them out. Fingers crossed.

Alright y’all. It is with a *very* heavy heart that I say: I have extremely mixed feelings on this book. Now, to be fair, there is a chance I had really built it up in my head before starting, because I was so excited about it, and therefore my expectations were too high. Like, that’s totally possible. And yet…here I am, heartbroken that I didn’t just all out love it. Now, give me a chance to explain my feelings through this review to decide to give it a try (or not) yourself, because my reactions were so mixed, that if the things I did love (the plot, the pacing, the writing) appeal to you, then I would absolutely suggest giving it a go. Because maybe what I didn’t love (the chemistry) was a me problem and wouldn’t affect you in the slightest.

So, the things I loved. The setup was great. Mel as a bartender, the cocktail competition, her life plans, her relationship with her roomie/coworker/bestie Daniel, etc. I enjoyed some of the tropes too, like Mel and Kade getting snowed in together. I was super into all the art (and the inclusive look at what “counts” as art) and all the tattoos. The spicy scenes were few, but they were diverse (as far as preferences/light kinks), and well written. Towards the end, when Mel (finally) faces and gets closure with her ex-wife, I loved that it was satisfyingly “take that,” but also mature. And, of course, I loved the poly relationship that was central: the complexity of figuring out what that means for each involved party and how there is no prescription for how to be poly; it’s as varied and diverse as the people in the relationship. Beautiful and accepting and heart-filling. And just really, the general plot and pacing and storytelling were all smooth and compelling.

The things I wasn’t as into. Or, to be most clear, the one thing that was also big enough that it affected everything: the chemistry. I honestly never bought into Mel and Bebe and Kade. And to be clear, because I want to be very clear about this, it’s not because it’s queer and poly. I honestly couldn’t really buy into any of the paired off combinations either. I felt the Bebe/Mel spark right away, but it fizzled quickly for me and never came back. I feel like there was a lot of telling me the characters were attracted to each other and cared for each other. And if I’m being honest, quite a few times their actions absolutely followed that up. But the depth of believability in their connections – especially the deeper emotional ones, which are personally super important as far as investment in their outcomes – just never clicked for me. Maybe it’s because it’s told from Mel’s perspective, and she’s the one that’s a little walled off, unsure if she’s good enough/can handle the situation, spending all her time questioning, to such an extreme that, when she finally “gives in,” as it were, it didn’t feel right. Too fast of a switch? Maybe not enough reasoning why? And since she wasn’t super impulsive prior, it just felt off. I mean, all her choices prove she’s emotionally involved, and wants it all…so I don’t know why I didn’t feel it when she finally decided with her brain to follow what her heart was already doing. But the plain truth is, I didn’t.

As a small addition to this, I felt like the socioeconomic differences between Mel and Bebe/Kade were defensively/bitterly brought up in conversations a number of times, but never actually addressed, and in my heart of hearts, I feel like that’s going to be a point of stress moving forwards. Oh, and I really felt uncomfortable with the way Mel talked to/thought about Kade’s emotions/reactions. It felt a bit close-minded and I know it was likely from her own discomfort, but I was annoyed that Bebe never did much to help ease that for either side and that. And while Mel was willing to publicly fight for Kade, she also never really did much to question her own assumptions about them. That felt…not great, to me.

So here we are. The greater framework and story and relationship vibes were exactly what I wanted and I enjoyed the hell out of them. And the title and cover are damn gorgeous. But I didn’t vibe with the actual three individuals that were a part of this story and relationship. I wish I felt different. I look forward to reading more (including backlist) from Alexander though – the promise is there!

This is my first poly contemporary romance being published traditionally. I’m so glad that Atria is releasing this book to the world. I hope that someone is able to see themself or their relationship on paper and feel joy at being seen and represented.

“Triple Sec” as a title is a cute play on words and admittedly is what caused me to request the book in the first place. I’m absolutely in my margarita era, and apparently so is the rest of the world according to Mel.

I enjoyed getting to know all of the characters separately and in their relationships together. I felt a little bit disconnected to the emotional aspects of this book since it was written in 3rd person. I think had it been written in first person it would have pulled a little harder on my heart strings, and had me more invested than I ended up being. That being said, it was such a quick read, very fast paced and entertaining, and I never knew what was going to happen next so TJ Alexander kept me on my toes.

I loved this book so much. I love the trope of the jaded bartender. It is a trope that I, for some reason, just gravitate towards and love to read about. I've not read a lot of romance books about polyamorous relationships despite looking for them, so I loved being able to read this one and greatly enjoyed it. I love the dynamics between them and watching them figure out their relationships. This was such a good book that I loved to read, and if you are looking for a queer romance that also involved poly relationships, this is the book for you.

What a delightful read "Triple Sec" turned out to be! TJ Alexander's exploration of polyamorous relationships is refreshing and insightful, providing a nuanced portrayal that feels both genuine and relatable. The characters, particularly Mel, Bebe, and Kade, are wonderfully crafted with depth and authenticity. I appreciated the emphasis on communication and the complexities of love within the story.

The mixology backdrop adds a unique and engaging twist to the narrative, making it even more enjoyable. While I wished for more depth in certain areas, such as Mel's friendship with Daniel, the overall journey was captivating and satisfying. Alexander's writing style is easy to immerse oneself in, and the story unfolds with humor, heart, and plenty of charm.

Thank you to NetGalley, T.J. Alexander, and Atria Books for the ARC!

I really enjoyed this book. I liked watching the characters discover their different relationships and their emphasis on communication. As someone who loves mixed drinks I thought the cocktail competition was so fun. I do wish the author went more in depth with Mel's friendship with Daniel.

Thank you to NetGalley, T.J. Alexander, and Atria Books for a chance to read and review an ARC of Triple Sec.

🦇 Triple Sec Book Review 🦇

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

❓ #QOTD What's your favorite drink (non-alcoholic or cocktail)?

🦇 Post-divorce, Mel is now a jaded bartender at Terror & Virtue; a swanky cocktail lounge in NYC that gives the bar staff little room for creativity. There, Mel meets Bebe; beautiful, funny, and all too enchanting. Oh, and Bebe's partner, Kade. Mel tries to put meeting the bubbly beauty out of her mind until Bebe makes a unique offer: she wants to take Mel on a date. So begins Mel's first steps into the polyamorous world, prompting Mel to open her long trampled-on heart. While Mel balances shifts and dates with Bebe, she contemplates entering a cocktail competition to turn the dream of opening her own bar into a reality. But what if it all becomes too much at once?

💜 So, TJ Alexander is now a new auto-buy, a new fave, a new literary love. There are some books you have to read for chapters and chapters before you fall into the voice, before you recognize the main character's tone and inflictions and moods. The essence of Mel, from that very page, is both familiar and foreign, as most bartenders are. That's what makes them easy to talk to. Alexander's word choice is easy and enthralling; a comfort. Each character lives off the page until they're telling the story alongside you, from Bebe's bubbly personality to Kade's soft stoicism. This book is so beautifully, unapologetically, and above all NATURALLY queer. It's as refreshing as the palomas Mel loves (hopefully, since I wouldn't know), smooth and citrusy, sparkling and fun. I'm sad that I had to reach the end, even though the story's ending quenched my thirst after a long drought of 'meh' reads.

💜 Alexander provides a healthy, comforting, realistic glimpse into the polyamorous world. Each amendment to the written agreement Mel and Bebe began with showed us Mel's development as she opened her heart a little bit more with each chapter. I adored Mel's reason that many people she already knew (including her own roommate and best friend) were in poly relationships. Even though it took Mel by surprise, the actual existence of these relationships was natural. Alexander provides so many small glimpses into this world, inviting readers to understand different dynamics and arrangements, but there are bigger themes at play that I wish we delved into more for Mel's sake. For example, the analogy that relationships are gardens we must tend to, less they wilt. While Mel decides to put more of an effort into her friendship with Daniel, we only see two small attempts (a brief conversation and her meeting Daniel's paramour).

💜 Mel's trip with Kade was everything, providing us with an opportunity to focus on Kade's microexpressions and inner workings. I honestly could have lived in that chapter far longer. Maybe we can get a prequel, with Kade and Bebe and Blue, from Kade's point of view? I understand too well, being the person who feels so, so much but doesn't always show it. The commentary on jealous, their reasoning behind Bebe calling them "wife," their reaction to Mel defending them when so many people misgendered them at the airport; everything. Kade's smallest gestures had the biggest impact, including their urging for Mel to TALK with them and Bebe instead of getting upset over a minor mistake. Communication is a big theme in this book, in the BEST way. Bebe and Kade urge Mel to process her thoughts and feelings, even when Mel tends to fight them. Again, a wonderful portrayal of a healthy relationship.

💙 As captivating as Alexander's voice and wordplay were, I feel like some moments were rushed through. We don't get much of a chance to linger on the development of the relationships, HOW the feelings came about, instead moving quickly from the first date to Mel's unexpected attachment to Bebe, then again from the snow trip to amending the agreement once to include Kade to eventually the final amendment. There was just a bit too much tell and not enough show for me. Also, can we get some of Mel's recipes, pretty please?

🦇 Recommended to fans of Casey McQuiston and Alexandria Bellefleur.

✨ The Vibes ✨
🍸 Delightfully Queer
🍸 Polyamorous Relationships
🍸 No Third-Act Breakup
🍸 Cocktail Competition
🍸 Contemporary Romance
🍸 Smut

🦇 Major thanks to the author and publisher for providing an ARC of this book via Netgalley. 🥰 This does not affect my opinion regarding the book. #TripleSec

💬 Quotes
❝ "There’s a difference between feeling something and letting it consume you.” ❞
❝ 'Just’ friends makes it sound like something lesser. Easier. I don’t think it is. It’s still a garden that needs tending, even if it’s growing something else. In some other season.” ❞
❝ “Blue used all pronouns. They used to say it was the closest they could get to describing the infinite spirit inside them.” ❞
❝ “You grow up, thinking, ‘If only I can find the one person I can be with for the rest of my life, if only I can get a house with a yard, as long as I am living the most normal, blameless life, then that will show ’em. You know? You think you have to tick all these boxes. That your relationship has to look a certain way. Even if you’re—no, especially if you’re queer. There’s so much pressure to do the right thing.” ❞
❝ The boot shape of Italy stared back at her, reminding her of Pompeii. She had roots in a disaster zone; she’d been born into it. Maybe, instead of running from it, she could stand still, face the eruption, and embrace whatever came. ❞

This was the first poly book I had read and I’m so glad this was my introduction. TJ Alexander did a wonderful job.
Mel, Bebe, and Kade were wonderful partners. I connected to Mel as someone who has worked in the service industry. I thought it was hilarious when Mel was researching poly relationships. It felt like everyone who has ever stayed up late studying for finals: reading everything and comprehending nothing.
I think the development of characters were well done as well as their relationship with each other. I wish we had seen more of Daniel and Mel’s discussions after the scene in her bedroom while researching. I think it would have been a nice touch to delve deeper into different poly relationships, since it seemed Mel didn’t truly understand it before.

A delightful romance that the world needs! Sexy, smart, queer, and poly. A beautiful celebration of love.

I’ve never considered polyamory—sometimes finding one person is hard enough. However, this book provided an eye-opening introduction to what a healthy polyamorous relationship can look like.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I’m glad I went in with only a brief understanding of the premise because it was so fun to experience the relationship as it unfolded. The characters were well-developed, and the romance was sweet with a touch of spice. I was particularly intrigued by Mel’s bartending work and wished there was more focus on the competition, as it felt a bit rushed towards the end (though the ending wrapped up nicely). There were some minor issues where communication and conflict resolution seemed almost too perfect, but it was still a great read. I flew through it and was sad to leave the characters behind when it ended.

Thank you to TJ Alexander, Atria Books, and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.

This was a delightful cozy queer read that I’m very pleased to have gotten a hold of. The characters all felt pretty real and lovable. My only hyper specific critiques are that so many topics were approached but I felt could have been driven home and wrapped up a bit more hard-hitting. The complications of polyamory were addressed but the theme of “no one knows and we should all find our own way with love and communication” was important but a little soft. The importance of “tending the garden” of all relationships was another big one that felt a bit swept under the rug before it could be fully driven home. But these are pretty nitpicky points. Overall I loved the cozy vibe where there weren’t crazy horrible conflicts but just enough to keep the plot running.

"Triple Sec" by TJ Alexander is a delightful, fresh take on polyamorous romance. I loved how the book dives into the complexities of a poly relationship with humor and heart. Mel, the jaded bartender, and her journey into new relationships felt genuine and relatable.

The mixology backdrop added a fun twist, making the story even more engaging. The characters were well-developed, and their interactions were both heartfelt and entertaining. The exploration of love and the importance of communication really stood out to me.

Overall, "Triple Sec" is a refreshing and satisfying read, perfect for anyone looking for a contemporary romance with a unique twist. Highly recommend!

I went into this book blind like I normally do and was kinda surprised. Not expecting this at all. That being said, I liked the story a lot. The plot was good and somewhat believable haha.

Thank you to TJ Alexander, Atria Books and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Triple Sec is a delightful contemporary that follows Mel in the world of mixology and polyamory.

Mel is a jaded bartender (relatable) who stumbles upon partners, Bebe and Kade, but she also finds herself a competitor in a mixology competition. As she navigates new relationships and spirits, will she find the perfect balance?

Each part is a love story (3 in 1 deal up in this thing) and collectively an ode to mixology. This is an easy, light read that has great representation, touches the importance of communication in all interpersonal relationships and being yourself. I have no notes, really enjoyed everything about Triple Sec. I think this would be a great read to start Pride month. This comes out June 4th!

Thank you Atria Books and Netgalley for an eARC copy of Triple Sec in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.