Title: Speak Easy (Speak Easy #1)Author: Melanie Harlow
Genre: Historical Fiction/Romance
Age Group: New Adult
Release Date: July 22nd 3013
Tour Organized by: AToMR Tours
Synopsis:
Temptation is everywhere.
It's July, 1923. By day twenty-year-old Tiny O’Mara works for her father’s smalltime bootlegging operation. By night she craves the roll-your-stockings-down lifestyle of a flapper, but with her mother gone, she’s usually stuck at home with two younger sisters—until her father is kidnapped by a mobster in Detroit's exploding organized crime scene, and it’s Tiny who has to come up with the ten-thousand-dollar ransom.
In one week.
Enzo DiFiore’s screen-idol looks and dangerous charm leave her breathless, even though he’s the son of the mobster holding her father hostage. But when the forbidden spark between them refuses to burn out, she tries to use their powerful attraction to buy more time.
And then there’s Joey Lupo, the irritatingly handsome pest from her childhood who’s got the street smarts Tiny needs to smuggle enough booze to make a quick ten grand. But he’s got his own agenda where gang rivalries are concerned, and despite his promise to protect her, Tiny isn’t sure she can trust Joey—or stop her growing feelings for him.
To save her father’s life, she’ll have to choose between them. But deciding whom to trust isn’t easy in a world where everyone wants something—be it booze, money, power, or sex—and no one cares what it takes to get it.
My Review
Before reading this, I didn't really consider myself a fan of historical fiction. I think I've read maybe three books that fit that genre, and while I always seem to enjoy them, I still didn't really feel like it was my "thing." It seems I'll have to change my opinion on this; I absolutely loved this book. It was also really refreshing to read a New Adult that wasn't a Contemporary Romance for a bit of a change. Although I am no expert on the time period, I've always had a fascination with the 20's and Speak Easy, in my opinion, was an accurate portrayal of the period. With that said, the story still felt very fresh and now. From the very first page, the author pulls you into a world of flappers, smoke and whiskey-filled illegal clubs, and sexy, dangerous gangsters-- and you won't want to leave.
I adored the characters; they each brought something special to the story, and were all very well developed. I loved that Tiny had flaws and dealt with things in a realistic way. She made mistakes along the way, but she was real and strong, and did whatever she had to do to protect her family. Even the supporting characters were great-- her sisters, her friends, I liked them all. As far as the men... oh my goodness. Hot, hot, hot! Do we love Joey? Do we love Enzo? I'm as undecided as Tiny on this one. I loved them both! They're probably both bad news for her, but I don't care. Lines definitely get blurred as far as who to trust when everyone seems to have their own agenda.
"Why are you doing this? You think you can buy me?" Straightening my shoulders, I stood a little taller.
"I'm not for sale."
He picked up my hand, smashed the money into my palm, and curled my fingers around it.
"Sweetheart, everyone's for sale."
As far as the love scenes-- grab a fan and an ice-cold drink (or some rum), because they are something else! I love a steamy story as much as the next girl, but there are some books that can make you feel like you're drowning in sex-- this definitely wasn't one of them. The balance between the romance (which wasn't even mushy, but I loved every minute of it) and the action was perfect. And the tension, sexual or otherwise, between these characters was so thick, you could cut it with a knife.
"Only stop acting like you're going to seduce me one minute and then strangle me the next."
He glared at me, seething. "That is, in fact, exactly how I feel about you."
I truly enjoyed this story and will be counting down the days until the sequel is released. Joey or Enzo? I need to know NOW! I'm so happy that I took a tiny chance on this one, considering it isn't the genre I usually go for; it really was fantastic. I highly recommend Speak Easy to anyone looking to take a little break from the angst, and try something different. Historical Fiction and New Adult fans alike will love this one!
Purchase Speak Easy NOW!
About the Author:
Melanie Harlow likes her martinis dry, her lipstick red, and her history with the naughty bits left in. SPEAK EASY was inspired by her cocktail culture obsession, her affection for good gin, and the view from the end of her street. She lifts her glass to NA readers and writers from her home near Detroit, MI.
Connect with Melanie:
**Giveaway Time!**
Enter to WIN:
US ONLY: One grand prize swag pack which includes:
Valentine Vodka Swag, JewelNinjas Agatha Bracelet, Chrome Cocktail Shaker, MAC Lipstick, Great Gatsby Soundtrack
or
$10 iTunes gift card, Gatsby Style Flapper Headband, Signed Copy of Speak Easy, $25 Amazon Gift Card
Total Value: $150 USD
INTERNATIONAL: Eight (8) eCopies of Speak Easy: mobi or ePub only; value $3.99 USD
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LOVE this review! Nothing better than hearing a non-historical fan took a chance and enjoyed it! Also love the cold-drink-and fan comment. ;) Thank you so much for reading and reviewing!
ReplyDeleteI'm so happy that you liked my review! Can't wait for the sequel!!! :) Thanks for the opportunity to read/review!
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