Sweet Pretence by Jacqueline Gilbert

 

This was honestly a pretty pleasant surprise. I don't normally like second chance romance novels, but this one was decent. I think it worked because it felt like maybe when they met, they just weren't at a place in their lives where they were right for each other (I think the hero was the heroine's professor). When they meet again, the heroine is actually a TV producer. I'm ok with heroines having traditionally feminine jobs because I know some people get fulfillment from such roles, but it's exciting to see heroines in executive or STEM jobs, as well, and considering that this was published in the 80s, that felt especially noteworthy.

The romance itself is only okay. Neither character felt particularly noteworthy to me. Freddy and Joe worked with each other, but they did feel a little two dimensional. I liked how Freddy was a single mother and had healthy female friendships. This is just a really sweet, one-and-done type romance, which is a better palate cleanser than it is a memorable read, but honestly, there's a time and a place for that kind of book, too. I'd definitely consider reading more from this author.

2.5 to 3 out of 5 stars