Not the Marrying Kind
- ravishhertales
- Jul 22, 2021
- 3 min read
Review:
Jae is one of those authors who never disappoints. With her signature blend of thoughtful character development, slow-burn romance, and realistic emotional depth, she delivers yet another compelling love story in Not the Marrying Kind.
While it’s the second book in the Fair Oaks series, it works perfectly as a standalone. However, for those who have read Perfect Rhythm, this novel offers a deeper look into Ashley Gaines, who had a more complicated role in the first book.
Plot: Opposites Attract in a Small-Town Romance
Ashley Gaines is a florist in Fair Oaks, a small town that isn’t exactly the most welcoming place for an out-and-proud lesbian. After experiencing heartbreak and rejection, she has chosen to stay in the closet, focusing on her flower shop rather than risking her heart again.
Sasha Peterson, the local bakery owner, has a different approach to love—she enjoys casual relationships and doesn’t believe in marriage. She’s confident, independent, and comfortable with her sexuality, making her the polar opposite of Ashley.
Despite being neighbors, they aren’t exactly friends—until they’re roped into working together for Fair Oaks’ first lesbian wedding. As they navigate wedding preparations, cake tastings, and the occasional food fight, their attraction grows. But can a closeted florist and a commitment-averse baker really find common ground?
A Romance That Takes Its Time
If there’s one thing Jae is known for, it’s her ability to write a slow-burn romance that feels completely natural. Ashley and Sasha don’t even like each other at first, which makes their eventual connection all the more satisfying.
· Ashley’s journey is particularly compelling—she’s not just battling internalized fear but also the very real societal pressures of living in a conservative town. Jae does an excellent job portraying the struggles of being closeted while also making Ashley’s hesitation understandable rather than frustrating.
· Sasha’s character adds a refreshing contrast—as a pansexual woman, she challenges Ashley’s preconceptions about love and relationships. While she has her own reservations about commitment, her openness allows her to grow in ways she never expected.
The emotional build-up is just as satisfying as the physical one, making the eventual romance feel earned rather than rushed. Their chemistry is undeniable, and when things finally heat up, it’s both passionate and deeply emotional.
More Than Just a Love Story
While romance is the heart of the book, Jae also seamlessly weaves in deeper themes:
· Coming out in a small town—Ashley’s fears aren’t exaggerated; they’re very real for many LGBTQ+ individuals.
· Sexuality and identity—Jae continues her tradition of representation by introducing characters with diverse sexual orientations, from pansexual to asexual and non-binary individuals.
· Friendship and community—We see familiar faces from Perfect Rhythm, as well as cameos from Grace and Lauren from Jae’s Hollywood series, adding a special treat for longtime fans.
The novel also has a warm, sensory appeal, with vivid descriptions of flowers, wedding décor, and mouth-watering baked goods. If you enjoy books that engage all the senses, you’ll love the way Jae brings Ashley and Sasha’s worlds to life.
Final Thoughts
With Not the Marrying Kind, Jae has created a beautifully written, character-driven romance that is both heartfelt and satisfying. It’s a slow-burn romance done right, filled with humor, longing, and emotional depth.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely! Whether you’re a longtime Jae fan or new to her books, this one is well worth the read.
₹450
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