I'm OBSESSED with this new series by Becky Wade!!! I love the quirky characters, with the hint of mystery, and the romance and witty banter! Ahhhh, it's all just SO good!!!!

I've dragged my feet on writing this review. Mostly because my thoughts are kinda all over the place on this one. The overwhelming one being disappointment…I really enjoyed the first book in this series, Memory Lane, and was looking forward to reading Rocky Road.

Here's the main thing: Ms. Wade's writing is beautiful and flowy, but has a formal quality (in both the narrative and dialog) that feels incongruent for a contemporary story. Which I think makes the pacing feel slow…leisurely…meandering. As a result, it took me almost a month to get through this book - my attention kept getting diverted to other books and I only finally finished during two three-hour plane rides when there were no other distractions to be had.

Outside the slow pace, there were a couple things I appreciated about this book. First, I like a hero who stands firm in his convictions. FBI Agent Jude knows his attraction to Gemma can’t be acted on while they are working his case together…so he doesn’t. So many romance stories tell us it’s only romantic if you let your feelings drive your actions, but I’m more drawn to characters who can put their actions on hold until the time is right. I also enjoyed the mini history lesson about World War II Code Girls.

But even that was a double edged sword because that side plot really didn’t do anything to move the main storyline along. Nor did the one with Jude’s mom trying to reconcile with her sister. Which is my other big thing with this book: I didn’t feel either the relationship between Jude and Gemma was well developed, and the big thing that brought them together - her cousin’s corporate espionage - wasn’t all cloak and dagger as a good sting operation should be. I liked the idea of the story, but feel the execution was lacking.

And one final thing seemed out of place: the whole quasi-religious aspect of the story. This series seems to be a bit of a departure from the author’s usually more overt Christian-themed books. The religion tossed in here seemed to be done so to appease her disappointed fan base - many of the reviews for Memory Lane blasted the author for the story containing alcohol, infidelity (it didn’t actually take place during the book mind you, but was part of the history of the hero’s parents), and for NOT having much of a faith aspect to it. Which is fair. If you’re expecting a certain kind of book from an author and that’s not what you get, disappointment is the likely result. But I think if you’re going to write religion into your story, don’t just give it lip service.

So yeah, lots of conflicting thoughts about this book. I wanted to like it, but I was never compelled to read more than a chapter at a time until there was nothing else for me to do but read it… At this point, I’m not sure if I’ll read a third Sons of Scandal book if there is one.

* thank you to NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review

This was a sweet book. I couldn’t help but read it because I enjoyed Memory Lane and this is kind of a sequel to it. Jude is an FBI agent who must go undercover as Gemma’s boyfriend for a case, but inevitably fake dating leads to real feelings.

The crime element to the story is actually quite gripping, especially alongside the slow burn of Jude and Gemma’s relationship. It was so nice to return to Jeremiah and Remy as well. Oh and the story of Gemma’s grandparents’ relationship was pretty heartwarming 🥰

What to expect:

- fake dating - undercover FBI agent
- forced proximity
- forbidden romance
- closed door

"Rocky Road," the second installment in the "Sons of Scandal" series, delves deeper into the complexities of family dynamics and secrets. While the main focus is on Jude and Gemma, readers gain insight into the scandal that has shaped their lives, particularly through the perspective of Jude's mother, who seeks reconciliation with her betrayed sister.
Gemma and Jude's relationship blossoms amidst a captivating blend of romance and suspense, with their chemistry and interactions stealing the spotlight. This is a fake romance trope. The investigation of Gemma's cousin adds a thrilling element to the narrative, while Gemma's quest to uncover her grandmother's past adds a heartwarming layer to the story.
Set against the backdrop of Maine, the setting adds a dreamy allure to the tale, enticing readers to explore its beauty. It reads like a Hallmark movie. Jude, the calm and collected FBI agent, finds his world turned upside down by Gemma's free-spirited nature, leading to a journey of self-discovery and growth for both characters. Their imperfect yet endearing personalities make them relatable and lovable protagonists. "Rocky Road" seamlessly blends elements of romance, humor, suspense, and faith, offering a compelling and entertaining read. While it can be enjoyed as a standalone, readers may appreciate the connections to the first book in the series, "Memory Lane." Overall, "Rocky Road" promises a satisfying continuation of the series, leaving readers eager for the next installment.
I recommend Rocky Road and although it is considered a Christian romance, I felt there was very little faith elements. It reads more as a clean romance. I was fine with that, I just want to help set expectations.

Becky Wade is one of my go-to authors and I was so excited to read this one! This series is very real and I've enjoyed it a lot so far. Highly recommend if you're looking for a romance where the characters face real struggles, get a happy ending and you don't want spice!

Oh my goodness where do I even start? Becky Wade, you have always had me hooked, and Rocky Road, just like the ice cream, was so so good! I loved every moment I spent reading this book, and can’t wait to read what comes next! Being the second book in the series, I of course, had to read the first book, Memory Lane. You can easily read either book as a stand alone, but you will miss out on the joy that comes with reading a book by Becky Wade, which is a sad sad thing to do.

Rocky Road is Jude’s story. Jude is the responsible brother. He literally works for the FBI. Always the rule follower, he is unprepared to meet the amazingness that is Gemma. Gemma had my heart right away. I absolutely love her, and she might be my favorite female character ever. She is so unique, fun, colorful, and she took me by surprise on so many occasions. I love her openness and wish I had a friend like her in real life. Neither Jude or Gemma are prepared for what life has planned for them, and I enjoyed every moment of the ride. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Romance. Jude and Gemma are far from perfect, and that just makes me love them all the more. I couldn’t get enough of this story and am anxiously awaiting the next book in this series. I received a complimentary copy of this book and was in no way forced to post a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Jude Camden has been assigned to take down fragrance mogul Cedric Bettencourt. To do so he must enlist the cooperation of his cousin Gemma. Unfortunately to do what it takes to take down Cedric, Jude must pose as Gemma's boyfriend. Only problem is Gemma currently has a boyfriend and Gemma is definitely a lot different from him. Will Gemma let Jude into her life and cooperate with his case? Will Jude loosen up and not be all work and no play? A wonderful book from Becky Wade filled with mystery, humor, and romance.

Rocky Road is the second installment in the Sons of Scandal series by Becky Wade. I absolutely loved this fake romance story. That is not my favorite trope so that should tell you how good the story must be. Gemma and Jude were such fabulous characters. They were total opposites making them perfect for each other. Becky Wade is one of the best contemporary Christian romance authors, but has proved in this series that she does well writing stories with hints of mystery. I was totally there for all aspects of this story from the witty banter between the main characters to the family drama to a bit of mystery and danger. I can't wait for the next book in the series!

Even though this is a standalone book, I would recommend reading Memory Lane first if you haven't already. Rocky Road updates readers on the characters featured in the first book in the series.

Thank you to the author and Netgalley for a copy of this book. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Not my usual cup of tea but it was ok. It was my fault for not realizing it was a Christian read. While I usually go in for the spicy books, this was a refreshing change of pace.

We meet Jude in the previous book, but the real reason to read this series in order is to understand the family scandal and complicated dynamics that have resulted. Most of Rocky Road is from Jude and Gemma's perspective, but we also have the point of view of Jude's mother, the origin of the scandal, and her attempts to reconcile with the sister she betrayed. Gemma and Jude have an awesome meet-cute, and their chemistry just grows from there, despite Jude's determination to remain aloof. The romantic tension is so strong! I just loved their interactions and genuine personalities. The investigation of Gemma's cousin brings an element of suspense, and the subplot of Gemma's hunt for answers to her grandmother's secret past was heartwarming. The setting of Maine is dreamy, and makes me want to return there to explore more! We're also introduced to Max, the notorious half brother, and I'm looking forward to his story in the next book!

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Rocky Road is the second book in the Sons of Scandal series by Becky Wade. It can be read alone but I'd suggest reading the first book before this one so that you are aware of who several characters are.

Jude is a straight-laced FBI agent who wants everything orderly and neat. Gemma is a free-spirited perfumer. Together they must go undercover as a dating pair to take down the man who got Gemma's father put into prison. I always love the fake dating trope and this one was no exception. The banter between these characters from the get go was excellent and the fact that these two were so different was fun to read. There are also a couple of side stories here that were a nice touch. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the next in the series.

I really enjoyed the first book in this series so I was so excited to read this one - and I loved it even more!

Jude and Gemma made me smile throughout the book. I appreciated Jude and his love for his work, but also his love for those around him. He wanted to help Gemma not just with the problem he was tasked with, but to help her make life easier altogether.

Gemma was sweet and deserved so much more than what she was giving herself. She deserved a good relationship with someone who was there - and I was so glad when she saw what Jude had to offer.

Their families were the best. Jude’s meddling brothers, and Gemma’s nosey mom trying to figure things out had me laughing.

I didn’t want to put this one down and now I can’t wait for what’s next in this series!

A cute story of fake dating, unexpected romance and adventure. This is a charming rom com filled with interesting twists and turns that will keep you turning pages. Gemma and Jude were darling together and I found myself cheering for them to make their "fake" relationship real. I adored the clean and faith filled content. The storyline was so entertaining, enjoyable and fun. This wonderful romance will surely brighten your day.

Rocky Road was one of the sweetest love stories ever combined with mystery, intrigue, suspense, and betrayal. The book had me both laughing and feeling the emotions of the characters.

When an extended family member is part of the reason Gemma Clare’s father is currently locked up in prison, there’s not so much as a hesitation when handsome FBI agent Jude Camden asks for her help in nabbing her cousin in his latest illegal scheme. The two must pretend they are a couple and try to entice Gemma’s cousin to sell their family’s perfume recipe that has been top secret for generations. Will the fake couple be able to respect the FBI’s strict rule against romances during secret operations? If you’re a fan of humour, witty banter and a dreamy Maine setting, Becky Wade’s new book is for you.

Poignant Christian read

I enjoyed the continuation of the Sons of Scandal series and look forward to reading Max's story and finding out more about Fiona and Burke. I loved Gemma's career and the connections her family had to the perfume industry. Her family was fun and lively. Jude was a swoony and dutiful hero.

This was a sweet romance that I enjoyed and would rate PG for mention of side characters having a child out of wedlock, minor thematic violence, and kissing. There were Christian themes, but they fit well within the story.

Jude Camden is a calm, cool, and collected FBI agent who is used to holding his family together. Free-spirited perfumer Gemma Clare is also used to holding her family together, especially since her father's incarceration. Now her cousin Cedric, who has continued in his illegal dealings, is about to sell the secret recipe for their family's centuries-old bestselling perfume. Jude, who has been keeping an eye on Cedric, approaches Gemma about an undercover operation to finally get Cedric behind bars where he belongs.

Gemma harbors resentment for the role the FBI played in convicting her father but letting Cedric go free years earlier. However, for a chance to save the family legacy, she's willing to let Jude pretend to be her boyfriend in order to catch her conniving cousin. But she's not willing to stipulate to all the rules that Jude would like, leading to some interesting compromises.

While Jude and Gemma pose as boyfriend and girlfriend, Gemma is also helping her great-grandmother remember her WWII romance by tracking down her diaries and other mementos. When the stories Gemma is uncovering don't line up with family history as it has always been told to her, she begins to suspect there are secrets lurking beneath the surface.

This second book of the Sons of Scandal series is a wonderful blend of romance, humor, suspense, and faith. I laughed out loud so many times and also hung on the edge of my seat as I listened to the audiobook. I loved staid Jude with his very controlled life being slowly undone as genuine care for Gemma swept over him. Gemma's family is a riot and it was fun to follow the multigenerational relationships and banter.

Though Rocky Road could be read as a standalone, characters from the first book do make an appearance, and I think you'd enjoy it more if you read Memory Lane first. I look forward to the conclusion of this series and seeing how the threads between books tie together.

I received my copy of the book from the author. All thoughts in this review are my own.

If you read my review for book 1 of this series you know that it wasn't my favorite of her books BUT hear me out this one was SO different. This one had all the elements that reminded me why I love her so much as an author. There was witty banter, a grumpy/sunshine/fake dating trope that was perfection and the faith threat was present. I also enjoyed the small storyline of Gemma's grandmother. I thought it was a great addition to the overall story.

Gemma and Jude were great characters and you couldn't help but smile as you turned the pages. The way their relationship progressed through the story was believable. They definitely had their swoony moments and did I mention the romance was perfection?!

Although this is part of the series and Jude does get introduced in the first book I don't think it will take away if you pick this one up first. You will see the characters from the first book in this one as they are family but you will not be lost by reading them out of order. I can't wait to see what she does with the third brother's storyline in the next book. I am definitely looking forward to reading it.

Overall if you enjoy romantic stories then you will definitely enjoy this one. If you have read stories by Becky Wade before this one will take you back to her earlier works as it did me. Either ways I think you will enjoy it and should go grab it!

I received a copy of this book from the author for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

Rocky Road
by Becky Wade
Pub Date: February 14, 2024
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Christy Award Hall of Fame Author

FBI Agent Jude Camden handles every aspect of his job with by-the-book professionalism. There's no reason why his latest assignment—which calls for him to pose as the boyfriend of perfumer Gemma Clare—should be any different.
I've been wanting Jude and Gemma's story since there were teasers dropped in the first book, Memory Lane. Which, if you haven't read Memory Lane yet, go do so! You really should read them in order to have a better understanding of everything happening. This one can be read as a stand alone since the author does a great job in backstory.
This book has some kisses, a couple more passionate kisses but nothing further than kisses. Some mild moments of peril. This is a Christian fiction novel so there are some moments that Faith and God are mentioned. I thought it flowed very nicely and I don't think it would be off putting to readers who don't normally read that genre. I highly recommend this book if you enjoyed book one in the series.
5 stars

I love this book! I love this couple! I found their love story very sweet and tender, and it's interesting how everything develops.

Jude is an FBI agent who needs Gemma, the owner of a small perfume shop and who comes from a long line of former perfumers, to pretend to be his girlfriend so he can approach her cousin who is about to illegally sell the secret formula of a famous perfume.

There is not only romance, there is also a bit of mystery, but I don't want to give away any spoilers so you can enjoy it better.

Honestly, my heart was tied to this book and it was because of Jude. I found the MC to be one of the sweetest and kindest guys I have ever read. He has a heart of gold, I mean, he tried to help Gemma even before they were in a serious relationship. Plus, he loves poetry and when he quoted poetry to her my heart was beating out of my chest. It was so cute and romantic. I mean, he looked directly at his eyes while he said: “The spring sun shows me your shadow, the spring wind bears me your breath, you are mine for a passing moment, but I am yours to the death” Omg!!! I love him!!!!!

I don't want to give away spoilers so I'll just say that even when his life was in danger, Jude could only think about Gemma and how much he loved her. THIS BOOK IS EVERYTHING I NEEDED!!!!!

NOW, I can't wait to read Max's book and I can't say that I'm not ready 😚🤌🏼