There’s something incredibly satisfying about losing yourself in a well-written romance novel – the kind that sweeps you off your feet with its witty banter, sizzling chemistry, and heartwarming character growth. It’s an escape into a world where love conquers all, and even the most unlikely of pairings can find their happily ever after. That’s precisely what I experienced when I picked up Tessa Bailey’s “Fix Her Up” during a particularly stressful period at work.
As an avid reader of contemporary romance, I’m always on the lookout for new authors and stories that can captivate me from the very first page. And let me tell you, Bailey’s writing style hooked me instantly with its sharp humor and unapologetic sexiness. The premise alone – a fake dating trope with a clown-turned-party-planner heroine and a former baseball player hero – was enough to pique my curiosity.
The story follows Georgie Castle, a woman who defied her family’s expectations by pursuing her passion for party planning and entertainment instead of joining their successful home renovation business. Enter Travis Ford, Georgie’s childhood crush and a former professional baseball player whose career was cut short by an injury. Feeling lost and dejected, Travis finds himself stuck in a rut until Georgie, ever the resourceful and determined woman, proposes a fake relationship to help him rebuild his image for a potential broadcasting job and prove her worth to her family.
From the moment Georgie and Travis embark on their fake dating charade, the chemistry between them is electric. Bailey’s writing brings their banter to life, making it impossible not to laugh out loud at their witty exchanges. And when the fake relationship inevitably turns real, the steamy love scenes that ensue are scorching hot, yet infused with tenderness and vulnerability that tugs at the heartstrings.
But “Fix Her Up” is more than just a steamy romance – it’s a celebration of female friendships and empowerment. Georgie’s “Just Us League” – a group of supportive and fiercely loyal friends – adds depth and richness to the story. Their unwavering belief in Georgie’s abilities and their willingness to call out Travis’ occasional misogynistic tendencies felt refreshingly real and empowering. Bailey’s writing tackles meaningful themes of self-acceptance, personal growth, and finding one’s path in life, resonating deeply with me as a reader.
Several scenes and characters left a lasting impression on me. The hilarious and cringe-worthy moments when Georgie’s clown persona made an appearance had me laughing until my sides hurt. The steamy love scenes between Georgie and Travis were scorching hot, yet infused with tenderness and vulnerability that tugged at the heartstrings. And let’s not forget the supporting characters! Georgie’s family, especially her eccentric grandmother, added warmth and humor to the story. Travis’ best friend, Brent, and his wife, Hayley, were a delightful couple whose own love story I can’t wait to explore in future books.
Tessa Bailey’s writing style is a true standout. She seamlessly blends sharp wit, heartfelt emotion, and sizzling sensuality, creating a reading experience that is both entertaining and deeply satisfying. Her characters feel like real people you’d want to befriend, and her dialogue crackles with authenticity. While I did find some of Travis’ internal monologues a bit too misogynistic at times, Bailey deftly addresses and challenges those attitudes through Georgie’s unwavering self-confidence and the support of her friends.
As I turned the final page of “Fix Her Up,” I felt a sense of warmth and contentment wash over me, but also a tinge of sadness that the journey had come to an end. This book was exactly the escape I needed – a delightful blend of humor, heart, and heat that left me smiling and eager for more from Tessa Bailey’s Hot & Hammered series. It’s the kind of book that lingers in your mind long after you’ve finished reading, leaving you with a renewed belief in the power of love, self-acceptance, and the importance of surrounding yourself with people who uplift and support you.
If you’re a fan of contemporary romance with plenty of steam, witty banter, and characters you can’t help but root for, I cannot recommend “Fix Her Up” enough. It’s a book that will make you laugh, swoon, and ultimately, believe in the transformative power of love – both romantic and platonic. Bailey’s writing is a breath of fresh air in the romance genre, and I can’t wait to dive into her other works and experience the magic she weaves with her words once again.