This book is so sexy, I’m blushing writing the review. The MC’s have C-H-E-M-I-S-T-R-Y! There are a lot of steamy scenes but none felt repetitive or gratuitous. In addition to that, the overarching ethical discussion kept me engaged throughout the book. I was rooting for Cassie and Erin but also wondering if I should be. I wondered how I would feel if Erin had been a man. Wilsner handled these questions masterfully.

The story is dual POV with two very distinct voices and personal issues (I especially liked the exploration of Erin’s relationship with her mother). Both characters’ concerns felt valid, and the age gap was realistic. Often in an age gap romance, the primary tension is the age but I think this book elevated the trope by focusing elsewhere. The age difference was relevant but not everything. The tension felt real, not contrived, and also didn’t rely on miscommunications, which I appreciated. The author avoided a lot of stereotypes I was expecting.

The only critique I had was the repetitive use of and emphasis on “best friends.” But the secondary characters were so vibrant that they deserve to be highlighted.

Overall, it was nice to read about a mature couple overcoming problems that weren’t what I expected but seemed totally realistic with 🔥🔥🔥 all along the way.

Short Summary: Imagine Cassie’s surprise when her best friend’s mom (Erin) turns out to be the gorgeous woman she had a one-night stand with. The women should definitely leave that night in the back of Erin’s car. They really should. Really really should. Except neither can.

Thanks to Netgalley and St. Martin’s Press. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

Mistakes Were Made
by Meryl Wilsner