A nice mix of romance and mystery, Rocky Road by Becky Wade is about two people who have to pretend to date for an FBI undercover operation, all while she uncovers her great-grandparents' love story from World War II.

Summary: Jude Camden is an FBI agent, and he has to go undercover for a case relating to the heir of a French perfume company. For that, he needs Gemma Clare, the cousin of the target, to pretend to be his girlfriend.

Tropes/Genres:
• grumpy x sunshine
• fake dating
• mystery
• perfume
• uncovering a ww2 love story
• Christian romance
• set in Bangor, Maine

Review: This is such a nice story! I like how the author blended romance and mystery. While Jude has to catch Cedric in the act and arrest him, Gemma has to help her American great-grandmother Gracie remember her cross-continental love story with her French great-grandfather Paul Bettencourt.

Jude is the grumpy to Gemma's sunshine. He eats one serving of chocolate a day and has word aversions – "moist", for example. But he's such a great guy. He helps Gemma without letting her know about it because he doesn't want her to feel like she owes him something, and that's honestly so sweet! He's so supportive too.

Gemma is a nice character, and I like the plot point regarding her and her cousin Cedric's relationship. The story makes a good point about someone possibly not being who you once knew. Anyway, sometimes, I feel like Gemma has no sense of privacy because she keeps probing Jude for personal information, such as what happened between Jeremiah (his brother) and his dead wife, which is touched on in Book 1, Memory Lane. However, she's still a nice character, just super curious!

The mystery aspect of this book is so nice! I liked reading about Gracie and Paul and even learned a bit more about World War II, particularly the Code Girls of America. It's such an interesting fact to include in the story. I think that it's sweet that the author touched on Alzheimer's through Gracie, showing a 102-year-old woman who yearns to remember her love story.

I also learned a bit about perfumes through this book. I find it so cool how the author illustrates the different perfumes created by Gemma with words. It really makes me feel like smelling them because they sound so good. And that's coming from someone who isn't a fan of perfumes.

This book features Max Cirillo, the third brother, more, which sets the stage for the third book in this series. He sounds like such a fun character. The book also features Fiona, who's Jude's mother. Her drama with her sister Isobel, who was the first wife of Jude's father, still continues here. I truly wonder if it will finally be concluded in the third book of the series!

All in all, this is a nice book with both romance and mystery (which itself has romance within). Jude and Gemma have a cute fake relationship, so if you're into grumpy x sunshine and fake dating, this is a book for you!

Thank you, NetGalley, for the read.

Rocky Road by Becky Wade is the second book in the Sons of Scandal series. I really enjoyed the first book and was glad to revisit the characters.

Though there were parts in the beginning that were a little slow, it picked up and I was totally invested. There was great banter, good family dynamic with both families, and a bit of a mystery, which I really enjoyed.

I definitely recommend this book if you are looking for a good, clean romance. I am looking forward to the third book in the series.

Thanks so much to NetGalley and Becky Wade for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

Thank you Becky Wade! From the moment I finished Memory Lane, I knew I needed Jude's story and it did not disappoint! This series has been so good. Something about it just really drags you into the world the author is building. I think it's probably because there are more things happening than just them main love story, but it doesn't overwhelm the storytelling. This series would definitely be best when read in order but it's so worth it!

Gemma and Jude together, phew! The more buttoned up Jude isn't quite a grump, but he is definitely not loosey goosey like Gemma. But man, their chemistry. Oh my gosh, there is a moment in Jude's house that literally lit the page on fire with chemistry. I felt like I was needing to fan my face after reading that one. But never fear if raunchy books are not your thing because it was totally clean and innocent, but still so amazing!

In addition to the main plotline, I liked the side quest (essentially) of Gemma trying to figure out her great-grandparent's love story, especially when things started to seem off and she knew it wasn't so straight forward. Plus, Jude's mom has her own personal side story that's been unfolding across both books. This is a really great read and I can't wait for the next book!

I received a complimentary copy of this book and I'm leaving an honest and voluntary review.

I was so excited to read Rocky Road by Becky Wade! I really enjoyed the first book in her Sons of Scandal series Memory Lane where she introduced us to the character Jude! I really loved Jude! He is a strict rule follower with a serious demeanor and a dry wit! Also, an FBI agent! Yes, yes, yes please! He was the perfect opposite of the heroine Gemma who was fun loving, quirky and likes a bit of mischief. This book has a few story threads going on and it admittedly was a little bit too much for me at times, but it does come together well in the end to made a really well rounded story. This book has a little bit of everything! Romance, a little hint of mystery and some moments of danger. Becky Wade does a great job of hooking the reader for the next book by introducing us to the characters and giving us just a little glimpse of what is to come and I am definitely adding it to my TBR!

The title says it all.....a rocky road for Jude Camden, straight laced FBI agent and Gemma Clare, spunky perfume designer. When Gemma's cousin Cedric tries to sell the secret formula to the Rhapsodie perfume the FBI is called in for a case of corporate espionage, Jude must work with Gemma to learn about the perfume industry and so they become fake boyfriend/girlfriend and the sparks fly.

I loved the chemistry between Jude and Gemma, the mystery of Gemma's grandmother's past, the intrigue and suspense of the FBI case, the family dynamics of both families, the humor, and faith aspects and the love of chocolate. This story is even better than the first one of Memory Lane and I adored the characters in it.

I always enjoy Becky Wade’s books. This series is a little different and includes more mystery and suspense than her other series. Gemma is quirky and Jude thrives on being a predictably dependable guy. It was great to see each of them stretch the other past their comfort, and I enjoyed the side story about discovering great-grandma Gracie’s past. I love the covers in this series, the settings, and for this book, a good fake relationship. I read the first book before this, but this book is great as a standalone.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions in this review are my own.

I appreciate the author for the ability to write layered people and story lines. I feel the world building and setting the plot is well done and thoughtful. We have a running sub-story with the main male character's (mmc) mother that I'm equally invested in and hoping to see how that will be wrapped up. I thought the meet cute was creative, original, funny and just the best. I also appreciate the research the author takes into writing a book. Excellent descriptions to set scenes and images in your mind's eye to really capture the story. At times I didn't completely connect with the female main character. Sometimes I thought she had really pushed his boundaries or buttons to have him conform to her ways rather than respect who he is and his character. Perhaps an example of when our strength can become a weakness sometimes.. She was more free spirited than him. However, I didn't find her completely unlikeable. She is still a strong character and my characterization is purely opinion. Also, a few of the conversations between the two main characters gave some food for thought and were insightful. Overall, I am happy I read this. I am enjoying this series and am happily anticipating the next one. I think this title is worth a try. I think the series is best enjoyed in order. A Christian book where there a few conversations but not main topic. No scripture reference, if I recall correctly. I'd say Christian light fyi
*thank you very much to Netgalley for and ARC of this book. My thoughts are completely my own.*

Reading a Becky Wade book is my 'happy place'. There's just something about her books that pull me in and hold me captive. And this book is no exception.
After reading Rocky Road I will absolutely never think of perfumes in the same way. Gemma is a perfumer and learning the process of inventing fragrance was fascinating!
And I have never laughed to much while reading as I did at "butterfly collecting'! Who knew it could be so funny.
And Jude - wow - what an FBI agent.
I totally recommend this book and any Becky Wade book as far as that goes.
Thank you to Net Galley for allowing me to read this book. The opinions are entirely my own.

I have been looking forward to reading Rocky Road by Becky Wade since I finished Memory Lane last year. And, just like last year, I am now looking forward to reading Max’s story which will be the final story in the Sons of Scandal series.

I loved Jude in Memory Lane so when I heard his story was going to be a fake dating story, I was all in! I loved the chemistry between Jude and Gemma. He is a strait laced, rule follower while Gemma just wants to loosen him up. Their first meeting had me laughing out loud. Actually, there were quite a few laugh out loud moments when they were together. I felt like the case that Jude and Gemma were working together on was good and added some suspense to this story, especially at the end. I did feel like there was a storyline that could have had less time dedicated to it so we could have had more time with Jude and Gemma, but all in all, this was a great story.

I am really looking forward to the final story in this series. The snippets we got to see of max in Rocky Road, plus the intrigue surrounding his and Sloane’s relationship have me really interested to see just what happened with them in the past.

I received a complimentary copy of this story. I also purchased this story. The faith thread is light. 4 stars!

Author Becky Wade has brought her readers another treasure this Valentine’s Day with the release of Rocky Road, the second book in the Sons of Scandal series. Diving into this delightful book was an adventure that I waited until the last moment to start because I knew once I did, I would not be able to put it down until I finished it. I was correct!
This beautiful story brings together the straight-laced, rule-following FBI Agent Jude, the second Camden son, and Gemma Clare, the vibrant, witty, and fiery red-head perfumer. Gemma becomes a willing participant in an operation to take down her criminal cousin. All she has to do is pretend Jude is her boyfriend and make an introduction. It all goes according to plan until it doesn't. The relationship that’s supposed to stay fake starts to bring up real feelings, dangerous feelings. Jude’s position in the FBI requires that he not get romantically involved, and Gemma has always stuck to the easy, shallow relationships that can’t hurt her.
Watching how Jude and Gemma navigate their relationship with the added twist of the FBI operation, not to mention the little side research project Gemma’s great-grandma tasked her with, was such a beautiful gift. Do yourself a favor and grab a copy today!

I was given a complimentary copy of this story. Thoughts and opinions are my own.

Jude's FBI assignment requires him to act as Gemma's fake boyfriend - and prohibits him from having a real relationship with her. But from the moment they meet, he realises that things aren't going to be that simple. He's a strait-laced rule-follower, she's always trying to push the boundaries - but somehow, they click in a way Jude has never experienced before. Gemma can't resist trying to loosen Jude up, but as she comes to realise that his job may be on the line, are the stakes higher than she's willing to play? How much are Jude and Gemma each willing to give to make a relationship happen? And will Jude succeed in bringing down the criminal who's evaded justice for so long?

A delightful read, with characters I loved getting to know, old friends from book 1 to enjoy seeing more of, a touch of suspense, some great humour, and some very moving parts. I loved watching Jude throw himself into the assignment - but even more to see him gradually forging a far more important relationship with Gemma, who actually sees him for himself, not for his family scandal. And of course it's all the more satisfying when good triumphs over evil - at times I was half-afraid it was going to carry over into the next book, and I didn't want to wait. Really looking forward to seeing what the next book in the series brings. Note that this can definitely be read as a standalone, but does share characters with book 1 and may be most enjoyable read as a series. They're both well worth reading and I would highly recommend them.

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.

“Turned out that the intimate, fleeting seconds of their kiss had been stellar seconds. Like the seconds when you’re chewing a chocolate truffle or breathing in the perfect fragrance or sinking into a bubble bath.”

This quote is the perfect description of Becky Wade’s Rocky Road. It’s a delicious comfort read on a cold winter day. I devoured this book and loved every minute of Jude’s & Gemma’s story. It’s an opposites attract, fake relationship, sensory delight with Jude’s love of chocolate and butterflies and Gemma’s gift for creating perfumes even “the nose” loves. Not only is their love story a swoon worthy, sizzling just under the surface delight, but there’s a hint of suspense as well as the mystery of Gemma’s great grandma’s love story.

Jude’s a handsome, strait laced, serious FBI agent who’s after an international criminal. To nab the would be perfume formula thief, he calls on the thief’s cousin Gemma who’s a perfumer and owns her own shop. He wants to pose as Gemma’s boyfriend in order to get close to her cousin Cedric. Their meet cute is hilarious. From there, the chemistry between the two opposites only grows stronger with the energetic, spontaneous, impetuous Gemma and the neat and tidy, rule following Jude. I secretly loved the part where Gemma rumples his shirt or persuades him to eat rocky road ice cream beyond his one serving of chocolate a day.

I loved the progression of their relationship and the depth to each character. Gemma loves big and not only desires to help Jude, but is invested in helping her great grandmother with Alzheimer’s remember her love story. Jude is a care taker who cared for his mother when her world fell apart. Behind that quiet reserve, there’s a passionate heart just waiting to be unfurled. I love the way Gemma got under his skin and helped him embrace life more fully. I also enjoyed the touch of faith woven throughout the story.

One of the joys of this series is the rich side characters. It was so fun seeing Remy & Jeremiah again as well as Wendell & Marisol. I’m also hopelessly invested in Fiona and Burke, and Max finding true love. I also loved getting to know Gemma’s family and her great grandmother’s WWII epic romance.

It’s a delightful slow burn romance enhanced by the complex, well drawn characters. Even though this could be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading Memory Lane first to really get a feel for and understanding of all the characters. I also highly recommend the audiobook version. The narrators were absolutely fantastic. I loved the dual narration and the way both narrators brought these characters to life. I received an advanced complimentary copy of the ebook from the author but also purchased the audiobook. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.

Isn't this cover darling? I love it! And I love how the title ties into the story!

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. Do you have to read them in order? No, I think the author wrote enough back info into this one to make it possible to be read as a standalone.

Gemma's family history and story was fun to finally learn more about them. And I loved that subplot that Becky Wade added into the story. It was so sweet to be there as Gemma and her mom and aunt went on a little family history treasure hunt. And the outcome wasn't at all what I was expecting. But I loved it! Then we have her cousin jumping into the plot and causing some upheaval to Gemma's life. Namely in the form of Jude Camden, FBI agent. He's there to strike a deal with Gemma the perfumer and help her out if she'll help the FBI out.

Oh my! These two together were just pure magic. Poor Jude is trying so hard to ignore the magic between them but he's not going to have much luck with that because Gemma is just spunky and fun and straightforward. The only problem is, he shouldn't get involved with her because they're working together.

The chemistry, between Gemma and Jude, and the chemistry of perfume was very captivating. I loved it all and was hooked! I couldn't help but cheer for these two and for their family members, who have some subplots of their own. Lots of emotions, family drama, struggles, healing, faith, trust, taking a leap, and following your heart! I'm here for it all! And I'm going to be anxiously awaiting the next book in this Sons of Scandal series! I. Can't. Wait!!!! Hahahaha! Okay, I can wait. I'll be patient but just know I am looking forward to it...very much so!

Content: Clean. 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 received a copy from the author, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

I was so excited to get this arc - I loved the first in this series and the second did not disappoint. It was great to see how the previous couple continued to grow. I appreciated the fake dating troupe (one of my favorites) and I could see how they should end up together so quickly, and I loved how it grew slowly over the course of the investigation.

I enjoyed reading this. It's not heavy on the Christian part of the romance, but the subtle hints were great and the romance was interesting. I also liked the bit of thriller in it. A good read that made me get the prequel on Kindle Unlimited. I look forward to the remaining books in the series.

⭐️4.5. Memory Lane was a favorite read of mine last year, so I was very excited to have a chance to read the sequel. Jude was also mentioned in the first book, and he had me highly anticipating his story. So let me just start by saying this book was really enjoyable. I enjoyed the characters, the plot, and the relationship between the main characters.

Jude is an FBI agent working on a case against Gemma’s cousin. Gemma is a perfumer and business owner who aids Jude in bringing her cousin to justice. Jude was honorable, kind, and maybe a little bit uptight, but I found that endearing. He was a professional doing his job. Gemma came into his life like a perfumy tornado and made him loosen up a bit, which I found really fun. He ate two pieces of chocolate instead of one! *gasp* iykyk. With that said, Gemma was spunky, outgoing, sassy, and creative. Their meet cute was adorable and had me smiling like a dummy.

The FBI investigation plot is always intriguing to me and this was no exception. Especially the undercover part of an investigation. Add a sprinkle of fake dating and you have a close to perfect story.

The only complaints I have is that the story progression for the romance and the investigation was a little slow. I wanted more! I also wish that we had more of Jude and Gemma interacting. I think there were too many side character stories, and that kind of took away from the main romance. Other than that, I thoroughly enjoyed this and will be highly anticipating Max’s story.

I highly recommend reading this if you enjoy:
- Fake dating
- Opposites attract
- Grumpy/Sunshine
- Clean/Christian romance

- Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I absolutely loved the first book in this series, Memory Lane. It was a 5 star read fpr me so I was SO excited to get the ARC for book #2 in the Sons of Scandal series. However, I dnf.....I feel so bad but I just could not get into it. I didn't understand what was going on....too much FBI jargon and the family history of the FMC was hard to follow. Slow start that the book could not recover from. I am looking forward to Beck's next book....hopefully it will be more like Memory Lane.

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.

Sweet romance, full of good feels and vibes of a clean romance. Christian vibes throughout but didn't detract from the story. Thank you to Netgalley and Becky Wade for the opportunity to review.

My first 5🌟 read of the year, Becky Wade did it again!!!!!
I just loved this fun rom-com with a lot of mystery too between a fbi agent and a perfumer 🩷
I loved Gemma and Jude conection but now I’m waiting for Max book 🫣 I think I fell in love with him!

If you love cute romances with some fake dating and grumpy x sunshine, you should definitely read this one!!!!


*Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.

Rocky Road is book two in the Sons of Scandal series. Jude is the son in focus here. It isn't necessary to read the first book to enjoy this one, but it will give a foundation on who Jude is.

This is another fun read from this author. The characters are likeable, and much of the story revolves around dealing with family drama. This is Christian fiction so expect discussions about God and faith, with some prayer and church going as well.

I enjoyed it, and I think you will too.

Family friendly.