The Art of Love by Ali Vali

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


2.5 rounded up

I believe this is one of Vali’s old fanfic stories that I read years and years ago that has been updated and published. Which is totally fine, of course. Some of my absolute favorite stories by Vali come from that time. But this one hit me very much like the Harry & Desi story did, which wasn’t great. Having Harry and Desi show up and stick around feels fitting. And also reminded me of something my friend Megan always used to say: “New Orleans must be filled with loads of butch/femme couples who resemble Xena and Gabrielle.” But I went to New Orleans a few years ago and I saw none of them there. 🙂

Here’s the blurb:

In the game of love, there can only be two winners.

Architect Jolly Andolini has built her career on both award-winning structures and meaningful connections—but has no talent for it when it comes to her love life. Margot “Mimi” Mulle’s star is rising in the art world, and she’s finally getting her big break with her first major gallery show. Thrilled, she invites Jolly as her date.

But when gallery owner Bianca Griffin sets her sights on Jolly, she’s determined to win her affection, even if it means upsetting Mimi. Sparks fly, loyalties are tested, and hearts collide as they navigate the unpredictable nature of their hearts.

In the art of love, will destiny decide who belongs together?

So the beginning of the book was fun. Then things went off the rails and never got back on for me. The bad people were over the top. And I can’t say anything about the biggest thing that made me go “Whoa. No. That shouldn’t happen like that.” but I’m guessing if you read the book, you’ll get there and stop and have your own WTF moment.

But with all that said, Jolly and Mimi are lovely together. They feel a lot like Cain and Emma but without the life and death mob action. There were some laughs and lots of love and passion.

Thanks to BSB and NetGalley for the ARC!



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