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Clover Hill Romance #1
Winning Move
Gina has a no-dating policy, but out-of-towner Marek’s nerdy charm is tough to ignore. A small town bisexual romance.
No dating. That’s longtime divorcée Gina Kersey’s rule, and she’s sticking to it. Comfortably settled in her hometown of Clover Hill, she’d rather play board games than risk getting played herself. For company, she has her beloved if slightly meddlesome Great Aunt… who’s somehow made Gina promise to ask someone out. On a date. Maybe she could skip town instead?
Outgoing video game translator Marek Haas just picked up the sports car of his teenage dreams—to celebrate getting over a breakup from the absolute worst boyfriend, not because he’s having a midlife crisis at thirty-five. In his automotive fantasies, though, the car didn’t break down in the middle of small-town nowhere.
Marek’s not a damsel in distress, but when Gina comes to his rescue on the side of the road, she can’t believe her luck. He’s handsome, charming, and most importantly, just passing through. Promise, meet loophole! When he turns out to be adorably nerdy as well, they skip drinks at the pub for a fun-filled night in Gina’s bed.
The problem? Marek’s vintage car needs parts, so he’s stuck until they’re found. Meaning every time Gina turns around, her hot one night stand is still in her town, being all cute and friendly and sometimes taking his shirt off. Even worse, he seems to be falling for Clover Hill… and Gina might be falling for him.
Can Gina overcome her fears and take a chance on a geeky sweetheart who makes her weak at the knees, or will their unforgettable one night stand end up as nothing more than a memory?
A high heat contemporary queer M/F romance novella with two bisexual main characters and a guaranteed HEA.
Tropes: “no dating” rule, vacation fling, one night stand, seasoned romance with characters 35+, small town, nerds in love, bisexual romance.
Detailed content warnings are available in the book's front matter and on the author's website.
No dating. That’s longtime divorcée Gina Kersey’s rule, and she’s sticking to it. Comfortably settled in her hometown of Clover Hill, she’d rather play board games than risk getting played herself. For company, she has her beloved if slightly meddlesome Great Aunt… who’s somehow made Gina promise to ask someone out. On a date. Maybe she could skip town instead?
Outgoing video game translator Marek Haas just picked up the sports car of his teenage dreams—to celebrate getting over a breakup from the absolute worst boyfriend, not because he’s having a midlife crisis at thirty-five. In his automotive fantasies, though, the car didn’t break down in the middle of small-town nowhere.
Marek’s not a damsel in distress, but when Gina comes to his rescue on the side of the road, she can’t believe her luck. He’s handsome, charming, and most importantly, just passing through. Promise, meet loophole! When he turns out to be adorably nerdy as well, they skip drinks at the pub for a fun-filled night in Gina’s bed.
The problem? Marek’s vintage car needs parts, so he’s stuck until they’re found. Meaning every time Gina turns around, her hot one night stand is still in her town, being all cute and friendly and sometimes taking his shirt off. Even worse, he seems to be falling for Clover Hill… and Gina might be falling for him.
Can Gina overcome her fears and take a chance on a geeky sweetheart who makes her weak at the knees, or will their unforgettable one night stand end up as nothing more than a memory?
A high heat contemporary queer M/F romance novella with two bisexual main characters and a guaranteed HEA.
Tropes: “no dating” rule, vacation fling, one night stand, seasoned romance with characters 35+, small town, nerds in love, bisexual romance.
Detailed content warnings are available in the book's front matter and on the author's website.
145 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 13, 2022
3 people are currently reading
108 people want to read
About the author
Skye Kilaen
19 books380 followersSkye Kilaen is a bi author who writes contemporary & science fiction romance that is sometimes polyamorous, focusing on sapphic stories, queer M+F, and bi and pan main characters.
She also sends out a monthly newsletter highlighting new & recent self-published and small press queer romances that look particularly promising but might fly under the radar. Sign up on her website, your TBR will thank you!
Skye currently lives in Austin, Texas because it has so many libraries and breakfast tacos.
She also sends out a monthly newsletter highlighting new & recent self-published and small press queer romances that look particularly promising but might fly under the radar. Sign up on her website, your TBR will thank you!
Skye currently lives in Austin, Texas because it has so many libraries and breakfast tacos.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
December 29, 2022
Winning Move is book one in the Clover Hill Romance series. It's a m/f romance, but features two bisexual MCs. I absolutely loved that it features two bi characters. I feel like the typical romance books don't often approach the other areas of the LBGTQ+ community. I mean, I can't even tell you any titles of book that feature openly pansexual MCs.. so yeah, I was excited for this book!
Our MCs are Gina and Marek, and both were great. The author has great character development, which made it easy to enjoy and like the main characters. The plot wasn't overly unique or anything, but the author did a great job at making it feel different.
I'll definitely be reading others by this author!
Our MCs are Gina and Marek, and both were great. The author has great character development, which made it easy to enjoy and like the main characters. The plot wasn't overly unique or anything, but the author did a great job at making it feel different.
I'll definitely be reading others by this author!
September 14, 2022
Here's to queer small town romance!
The good:
- Clover Hill is a small town that welcomes LGBTQIA+ folx as a matter of course. The PoV characters know not to assume gender, there are nonbinary and trans-spec folx in the secondary characters, and even the elders are with the program.
- One could argue Clover Hill too perfect - heck, the restaurant in town has a separate room for people with kids so diners who want a quieter meal have space to do that, too. But don't worry, the small town gossip and busybodies are out in full force.
- Kilaen gives just enough detail - the minimum to satisfy story needs without getting into the weeds. It's a necessity at this shorter length and also gives fewer opportunities for nitpicks. For example Marek is a video game translator, a job I've held in the past, and no lies detected. We never learn exactly what broke on Marek's car and guess what, it doesn't matter.
- Both Marek and Gina are bi, yay! They're also both in their mid-to-late 30s, and some of Gina's life insights hit this 39-year-old right in the feels.
- The male love interest is fat while the female love interest is not, which we rarely see and I'm all for.
- There's an exchange that makes it clear that penetration is not a requirement for sex, which will always get points in my book.
The not-for-me:
- There is a third act break up. I like that when they come back together it's on a trial basis for Reasons but still, third act break up.
The not-so-good:
- While all the small things I listed above are awesome there are a couple of lines about social issues that feel out of place to me. So many references are well done that the 5% that are a reach stick out.
- The pacing falls off in the third quarter. The conflict is mostly outside the relationship, which is great, but it's wishy washy and mostly concerns Gina's baggage from a previous marriage. There isn't much drive behind it, especially when she sets herself up for disappointment and Marek is completely kind and nice and rational.
- There's a subplot that's a thin thread until the Epilogue, when it becomes a Very Big Thing. It ends well and gave me all kinds of feels... and helped me realize that the main relationship didn't deliver the same way in the emotion department. The nothing-nothing-nothing-WHAM pacing of the subplot didn't help, either.
If you are looking for a low conflict, queer af small town romance be sure to pick this up, just be ready for a dip in plot past the halfway point. If I were a quarter star person I'd give it 3.25, and I'm excited to see what else this series will offer.
Content notes:
Note: I responded to a call for ARCs of this book... only to miss that the file went into my spam folder ~facepalm~ So while I didn't read an ARC, that was the plan.
The good:
- Clover Hill is a small town that welcomes LGBTQIA+ folx as a matter of course. The PoV characters know not to assume gender, there are nonbinary and trans-spec folx in the secondary characters, and even the elders are with the program.
She was not going to laugh in her great aunt's face. "You're trying to set me up with a couple with children?"
Ophelia threw her hands up in frustration. "You're bi, and they could have an open marriage! How should I know?"
- One could argue Clover Hill too perfect - heck, the restaurant in town has a separate room for people with kids so diners who want a quieter meal have space to do that, too. But don't worry, the small town gossip and busybodies are out in full force.
- Kilaen gives just enough detail - the minimum to satisfy story needs without getting into the weeds. It's a necessity at this shorter length and also gives fewer opportunities for nitpicks. For example Marek is a video game translator, a job I've held in the past, and no lies detected. We never learn exactly what broke on Marek's car and guess what, it doesn't matter.
- Both Marek and Gina are bi, yay! They're also both in their mid-to-late 30s, and some of Gina's life insights hit this 39-year-old right in the feels.
- The male love interest is fat while the female love interest is not, which we rarely see and I'm all for.
- There's an exchange that makes it clear that penetration is not a requirement for sex, which will always get points in my book.
The not-for-me:
- There is a third act break up. I like that when they come back together it's on a trial basis for Reasons but still, third act break up.
The not-so-good:
- While all the small things I listed above are awesome there are a couple of lines about social issues that feel out of place to me. So many references are well done that the 5% that are a reach stick out.
- The pacing falls off in the third quarter. The conflict is mostly outside the relationship, which is great, but it's wishy washy and mostly concerns Gina's baggage from a previous marriage. There isn't much drive behind it, especially when she sets herself up for disappointment and Marek is completely kind and nice and rational.
- There's a subplot that's a thin thread until the Epilogue, when it becomes a Very Big Thing. It ends well and gave me all kinds of feels... and helped me realize that the main relationship didn't deliver the same way in the emotion department. The nothing-nothing-nothing-WHAM pacing of the subplot didn't help, either.
If you are looking for a low conflict, queer af small town romance be sure to pick this up, just be ready for a dip in plot past the halfway point. If I were a quarter star person I'd give it 3.25, and I'm excited to see what else this series will offer.
Content notes:
Note: I responded to a call for ARCs of this book... only to miss that the file went into my spam folder ~facepalm~ So while I didn't read an ARC, that was the plan.
June 20, 2024
I'm on a mission to read all the Clover Hill books, in order, because an interconnected series by different authors set in a queer-friendly small town sounds just so lovely.
This was a great start! The writing was really good and kept me very invested in the story, and I loved the family dynamics between Gina and her great-aunt and her niece, as well as the small town dynamics that Marek just so easily fell into as well. The epilogue was especially lovely and made me so soft. Being a novella, this felt like a fully fleshed out novel, which is impressive to me.
This was a great start! The writing was really good and kept me very invested in the story, and I loved the family dynamics between Gina and her great-aunt and her niece, as well as the small town dynamics that Marek just so easily fell into as well. The epilogue was especially lovely and made me so soft. Being a novella, this felt like a fully fleshed out novel, which is impressive to me.
August 18, 2022
4.5 stars
Oh my goodness, what an absolutely delightful read. Adults who act like adults. No convoluted BS, which isn't to say these two didn't have to work for their HEA.
Marek seemed almost too good to be true, but I like to think there are men like him out there, somewhere. Gina more so needed to work on herself, and I enjoyed watching her grow.
Ophelia was a wonderful side character. We all need an Ophelia in our corner! The small town setting was fantastic.
I look forward to reading more in this series.
Copy generously provided by the author. No review was requested, but I wrote one anyway.
Oh my goodness, what an absolutely delightful read. Adults who act like adults. No convoluted BS, which isn't to say these two didn't have to work for their HEA.
Marek seemed almost too good to be true, but I like to think there are men like him out there, somewhere. Gina more so needed to work on herself, and I enjoyed watching her grow.
Ophelia was a wonderful side character. We all need an Ophelia in our corner! The small town setting was fantastic.
I look forward to reading more in this series.
Copy generously provided by the author. No review was requested, but I wrote one anyway.
September 12, 2022
I gobble up everything by Skye Kilaen, so when I saw she was writing the first book in a multi-author series set in a queer small town? Oh heck yes. And it’s exactly what I wanted – an adorably geeky and queer small town romance.
Gina has a comfortable life in Clover Hill. She splits her time between working at the front desks of the vet clinic and her uncle’s garage, she plays board games at the local library, and she visits her Great Aunt Ophelia at her retirement home. Her life is full and the last thing she wants is to introduce all the stress of dating into her life. But when Ophelia makes her promise to ask out the next likely candidate, she can’t refuse her. When Gina runs into a stranded motorist a few days later, and he’s both hot and adorable (he waves at a dog!), she decides he’s perfect. After all, he’ll be gone as soon as his car’s fixed. But after their hot night together, it turns out Marek’s stuck in town for longer than expected. It’s obvious Marek is falling for Clover Hill (and maybe even Gina) but will Gina’s fears around dating ruin their chances before they even start?
Gina comes off as a bit abrasive. She has a lot of baggage from her divorce and she truly believes that, while she spends a lot of time alone, she’s not lonely, no matter what Great Aunt Ophelia thinks. After their one night stand, Marek is stuck waiting for the parts needed to fix his car. To her frustration, Gina keeps running into him – and he looks just as adorable and sexy, especially when he removes his shirt while helping out around town. She’s initially surprised every time she sees him and then hit over the head with her attraction to him. And it’s not like he’s doing anything wrong by going to the coffee shop or grocery store or board game night – in fact, he asks her if she wants him to leave – but it’s still…. unsettling in a way that Gina doesn’t want to contemplate.
After recently coming out of a relationship that ended disastrously, he was already planning on moving somewhere new, and Clover Hill, with all its small town queer-friendly charm, might just be the place Marek is looking for. That Gina lives there? Just a bonus. Marek knows he wants to explore this thing between himself and Gina but he’s willing to go at her speed. And that’s the lovely thing about this book. They’re both bisexual adults in their late 30s and they know how to clearly state what they want. All the relationship drama comes not from a lack of communication but instead from their life experiences, and it’s honestly relatively angst-free. There was some extra drama dealing with Gina’s niece and while there’s a resolution to that plot line, I would’ve liked a little more time with her and Gina.
Overall, it’s cute, queer and geeky, and I can’t wait to read the rest of the stories in this series!
I received an advance review copy of this book from the author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Content notes: Author’s content notes
Gina has a comfortable life in Clover Hill. She splits her time between working at the front desks of the vet clinic and her uncle’s garage, she plays board games at the local library, and she visits her Great Aunt Ophelia at her retirement home. Her life is full and the last thing she wants is to introduce all the stress of dating into her life. But when Ophelia makes her promise to ask out the next likely candidate, she can’t refuse her. When Gina runs into a stranded motorist a few days later, and he’s both hot and adorable (he waves at a dog!), she decides he’s perfect. After all, he’ll be gone as soon as his car’s fixed. But after their hot night together, it turns out Marek’s stuck in town for longer than expected. It’s obvious Marek is falling for Clover Hill (and maybe even Gina) but will Gina’s fears around dating ruin their chances before they even start?
“She should have been able to run an errand on Wednesday without Monday night getting all up in her actual life again looking all adorable in a red Atari logo t-shirt with his sunglasses pushed up into his hair.”
Gina comes off as a bit abrasive. She has a lot of baggage from her divorce and she truly believes that, while she spends a lot of time alone, she’s not lonely, no matter what Great Aunt Ophelia thinks. After their one night stand, Marek is stuck waiting for the parts needed to fix his car. To her frustration, Gina keeps running into him – and he looks just as adorable and sexy, especially when he removes his shirt while helping out around town. She’s initially surprised every time she sees him and then hit over the head with her attraction to him. And it’s not like he’s doing anything wrong by going to the coffee shop or grocery store or board game night – in fact, he asks her if she wants him to leave – but it’s still…. unsettling in a way that Gina doesn’t want to contemplate.
“This man was impossible. Dating, even before you got to the relationship part, was at least forty-five percent misunderstandings, uncomfortable crossed signals, and feeling ground shift under your feet. Especially after you’d turned somebody down. Marek wasn’t doing this right.”
After recently coming out of a relationship that ended disastrously, he was already planning on moving somewhere new, and Clover Hill, with all its small town queer-friendly charm, might just be the place Marek is looking for. That Gina lives there? Just a bonus. Marek knows he wants to explore this thing between himself and Gina but he’s willing to go at her speed. And that’s the lovely thing about this book. They’re both bisexual adults in their late 30s and they know how to clearly state what they want. All the relationship drama comes not from a lack of communication but instead from their life experiences, and it’s honestly relatively angst-free. There was some extra drama dealing with Gina’s niece and while there’s a resolution to that plot line, I would’ve liked a little more time with her and Gina.
Overall, it’s cute, queer and geeky, and I can’t wait to read the rest of the stories in this series!
I received an advance review copy of this book from the author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Content notes: Author’s content notes
September 5, 2022
This novella is the first in the Clover Hill universe, a series of queer stories set in a small town for which I am very excited to experience. I love these kinds of interconnected books where characters and settings reappear.
I am a little unhappy that this is the second Kilaen in a row I have not had the best experience with despite usually falling head over heels in love with her books. This has all the ingredients of a successful novella: two loveable main characters, an interesting setting, mature conversations and just general good vibes throughout.
And I think that might be the problem? Both protagonists are very self-aware and the entire time is spent analyzing and explaining their behaviours - it's too much. As the reader, you don't really get to feel how worked up Gina is over the fact that Marek was not leaving the next day, you don't get to feel how quickly Marek falls in love with Clover Hills and Gina because the narration overexplains it all and takes all the tension out.
I like it when characters are aware of their flaws and don't immediately jump to the most incredulous conclusions but not when it comes at a cost of the emotional aspects. It's awesome that Gina knows what she wants out of a relationship, I loved how they communicated and can absolutely see them work out long-term but I was not particularly excited reading about it. People don't usually do real-time analysis of their state of mind, so it's a little weird to read about.
This could have been a stronger entry if the novella had been about the epilogue, maybe them as an established couple...
I received an advanced reading copy from the author with no obligation of leaving a review.
I am a little unhappy that this is the second Kilaen in a row I have not had the best experience with despite usually falling head over heels in love with her books. This has all the ingredients of a successful novella: two loveable main characters, an interesting setting, mature conversations and just general good vibes throughout.
And I think that might be the problem? Both protagonists are very self-aware and the entire time is spent analyzing and explaining their behaviours - it's too much. As the reader, you don't really get to feel how worked up Gina is over the fact that Marek was not leaving the next day, you don't get to feel how quickly Marek falls in love with Clover Hills and Gina because the narration overexplains it all and takes all the tension out.
I like it when characters are aware of their flaws and don't immediately jump to the most incredulous conclusions but not when it comes at a cost of the emotional aspects. It's awesome that Gina knows what she wants out of a relationship, I loved how they communicated and can absolutely see them work out long-term but I was not particularly excited reading about it. People don't usually do real-time analysis of their state of mind, so it's a little weird to read about.
This could have been a stronger entry if the novella had been about the epilogue, maybe them as an established couple...
I received an advanced reading copy from the author with no obligation of leaving a review.
September 7, 2022
This novella was very cute and fun to read. I liked the main characters who are both openly bisexual and the setting (a really queer(friendly) small town). I liked the way Gina and Marek communicated about the things they wanted/didn't want and their feelings.
I didn't like how the premise was that Gina was pushed into dating by a relative of hers, it felt a little "you can't be happy without a romantic partner"-vibes which is something I don't care for but as it was not that big of a part in the plot it did not annoy me as much as a feared it might at the beginning.
I would have loved to read more about them once their relationship was established and also about Gina's niece but would definitely recommend it to anyone who's looking for a short romance read with little drama or angst.
I received a free advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review that I am leaving voluntarily.
I didn't like how the premise was that Gina was pushed into dating by a relative of hers, it felt a little "you can't be happy without a romantic partner"-vibes which is something I don't care for but as it was not that big of a part in the plot it did not annoy me as much as a feared it might at the beginning.
I would have loved to read more about them once their relationship was established and also about Gina's niece but would definitely recommend it to anyone who's looking for a short romance read with little drama or angst.
I received a free advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review that I am leaving voluntarily.
August 22, 2022
Winning move was refreshing read. Skye has an interesting way she plays with words. A simple plot but exceptionally executed. Each character was well developed and I didn't feel robbed at all. I like that Skye also handles social issues, from sexuality and race. I loved every moment reading this book.
Gina and Marek were just so lovable. I totally recommend it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Gina and Marek were just so lovable. I totally recommend it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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June 14, 2025DNF @ 45%
I really wanted to enjoy this - there were so many little things included that I like, but the delivery of them were so clunky in this one. This should have been a slam dunk in terms of content, but fell flat for me. Every topic discussed was in a very preachy way and lacked a bit of nuance or exploration. I love aggressively queer books, when they aren't so black and white in delivery.
I received an ARC copy of this book from GRR.
I really wanted to enjoy this - there were so many little things included that I like, but the delivery of them were so clunky in this one. This should have been a slam dunk in terms of content, but fell flat for me. Every topic discussed was in a very preachy way and lacked a bit of nuance or exploration. I love aggressively queer books, when they aren't so black and white in delivery.
I received an ARC copy of this book from GRR.
August 24, 2022
I don't normally enjoy reading MF romances - and usually when I do read and enjoy them, it is nine times out of ten a historical romance. As a general rule, I read MM romances 99% of the time. However, something about this blurb called out to me.
I'm not sure if it was the mature main characters (in their mid to late 30s), the fact that both MCs were openly bi (that was intriguing for me because I've not come across this often in romances), or that somehow, even in the blurb that MC Marek seemed relatable to me.
The story is exactly what I like. It's sweet, a relatively short story, sexy and the MCs were both relatable.
The story introduces the reader to Clover Hill, a town that seems to be at the heart of a thriving LGBTQIA community. Marek, a fantastic mix of nerd and extrovert, has broken down in town while he was driving his brand new dream car home cross-country after picking it up the day before. He is helped by Gina, who refuses to allow anyone close, at least romantically, after a series of family heartbreaks, including a divorce. While Gina and Marek hook up - which is totally hot - neither expect Marek to stick around long enough to do anything, let alone helping people around town and contemplating making a permanent move to Clover Hill.
The one thing I found tricky with this book was Gina. While I liked her as a character, she seemed a bit too short and abrasive. That's fine in itself, I just think we need a deeper exploration of her family and personal issues that made her who she is. For that reason, the initial connection I felt with Marek's character remained. He is a really likable, nice, down to earth leading man. Although it would have been cool to know more about him.
I am intrigued by the setting and people in Clover Hill. For this reason I'm thinking that I might just be able to break my long running preference for MM (and I would be excited if there was an MM story coming up in this series in the future) to read more. Suffice to say, I am interested in where this series could be going.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I'm not sure if it was the mature main characters (in their mid to late 30s), the fact that both MCs were openly bi (that was intriguing for me because I've not come across this often in romances), or that somehow, even in the blurb that MC Marek seemed relatable to me.
The story is exactly what I like. It's sweet, a relatively short story, sexy and the MCs were both relatable.
The story introduces the reader to Clover Hill, a town that seems to be at the heart of a thriving LGBTQIA community. Marek, a fantastic mix of nerd and extrovert, has broken down in town while he was driving his brand new dream car home cross-country after picking it up the day before. He is helped by Gina, who refuses to allow anyone close, at least romantically, after a series of family heartbreaks, including a divorce. While Gina and Marek hook up - which is totally hot - neither expect Marek to stick around long enough to do anything, let alone helping people around town and contemplating making a permanent move to Clover Hill.
The one thing I found tricky with this book was Gina. While I liked her as a character, she seemed a bit too short and abrasive. That's fine in itself, I just think we need a deeper exploration of her family and personal issues that made her who she is. For that reason, the initial connection I felt with Marek's character remained. He is a really likable, nice, down to earth leading man. Although it would have been cool to know more about him.
I am intrigued by the setting and people in Clover Hill. For this reason I'm thinking that I might just be able to break my long running preference for MM (and I would be excited if there was an MM story coming up in this series in the future) to read more. Suffice to say, I am interested in where this series could be going.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 20, 2022
I just keep really enjoying the romances by Skye Kilaen - this was really light and cute!!!! I'll say I LOVE the queerness of this story, maybe it feels a bit fantasy/dream like at times, but there's still this warm feeling about a little town that is so strongly queer and supportive!!! And I'm curious to see how the other novels will interact with this town :D
I also really love the nerdiness of it, and how that helps them click with each other, because that's relatable, you bring up some show I love up and I'll flourish and actually be able to fully make conversation, and then I love how specific the references are as well!!!
Now onto characters themselves, I feel the romance between Gina and Marek wasn't as strong as some of the author's other books, but it was still nice and cute, and I LOVE how important consent is and how Marek doesn't push Gina after her not accepting something more. Now on the other hand, I LOVE the importance of Gina and her great aunt's relationship - the love and how they care for each other, and wanting to keep her well and happy, though I'll say I dislike the idea of a family member pushing you to date, and that's a needed thing, that friendships and hobbies and a fulfilling life is not enough... and it still comes down to societal expectation of relationships, which is sadly believable
Really if you're looking for a cute, nerdy and queer story, this is a good pick :D
(I received this book as an ARC, through the author and BookSirens, in exchange of a honest review :) )
I also really love the nerdiness of it, and how that helps them click with each other, because that's relatable, you bring up some show I love up and I'll flourish and actually be able to fully make conversation, and then I love how specific the references are as well!!!
Now onto characters themselves, I feel the romance between Gina and Marek wasn't as strong as some of the author's other books, but it was still nice and cute, and I LOVE how important consent is and how Marek doesn't push Gina after her not accepting something more. Now on the other hand, I LOVE the importance of Gina and her great aunt's relationship - the love and how they care for each other, and wanting to keep her well and happy, though I'll say I dislike the idea of a family member pushing you to date, and that's a needed thing, that friendships and hobbies and a fulfilling life is not enough... and it still comes down to societal expectation of relationships, which is sadly believable
Really if you're looking for a cute, nerdy and queer story, this is a good pick :D
(I received this book as an ARC, through the author and BookSirens, in exchange of a honest review :) )
September 4, 2022
I received an ARC from the author as part of their review team and am voluntarily posting a review. All opinions are my own.
Winning Move is the first of what is set to be a multi-author novella series set in a queer-friendly small-town called Clover Hill. I’ve often spoken about how refreshing it is when authors outside the cishet and/or white norm interrogate the usually exclusionary setting, and it’s off to a great start here.
I love the social commentary embedded into the narrative, especially from Gina’s perspective. Her parents and longtime best friend are Republicans, and don’t understand the extent to which these beliefs are harmful to Gina as a queer woman. It also helps to further prove what a wonderful, welcoming environment Clover Hill is.
I love that both Gina and Marek are bi, as well as a bit different older and more jaded as a result. Both have been hit by heartbreak in their pasts, and I like how it motivates them each to approach things from a more mature perspective you don’t often see reflected in romance. I went in fully expecting this to be another “we’ll just hook up and not talk about our feelings, and part ways when you have to leave” book, and while there are elements of that, ultimately their issues are handled maturely without a ton of drama.
This is a fun first installment, and I’m excited to see what the next few books have in store (as well as trying out the style of some new-to-me authors!) If you’re a fan of queer romance, I definitely recommend giving t s one a try.
Winning Move is the first of what is set to be a multi-author novella series set in a queer-friendly small-town called Clover Hill. I’ve often spoken about how refreshing it is when authors outside the cishet and/or white norm interrogate the usually exclusionary setting, and it’s off to a great start here.
I love the social commentary embedded into the narrative, especially from Gina’s perspective. Her parents and longtime best friend are Republicans, and don’t understand the extent to which these beliefs are harmful to Gina as a queer woman. It also helps to further prove what a wonderful, welcoming environment Clover Hill is.
I love that both Gina and Marek are bi, as well as a bit different older and more jaded as a result. Both have been hit by heartbreak in their pasts, and I like how it motivates them each to approach things from a more mature perspective you don’t often see reflected in romance. I went in fully expecting this to be another “we’ll just hook up and not talk about our feelings, and part ways when you have to leave” book, and while there are elements of that, ultimately their issues are handled maturely without a ton of drama.
This is a fun first installment, and I’m excited to see what the next few books have in store (as well as trying out the style of some new-to-me authors!) If you’re a fan of queer romance, I definitely recommend giving t s one a try.
August 18, 2022
WINNING MOVE is the first book in the Clover Hill Romance series and we are introduced to a queer-friendly small town. Gina retreated back there when her divorce came through and she's happy with her life. She isn't interested in dating or having a partner. Her life is shaken up when she rescues Marek from the side of the road. He is everything she likes but doesn't want.
Told from both perspectives, it is Gina in the driving seat. Marek knows what he wants but respects Gina's decision. I loved the back and forth between the two of them, the easy camaraderie tinged with heat.
The pace is smooth and the story flows, giving a little suspense regarding Gina's niece in amongst the low-angst relationship drama. The conversations all seem natural and easy, whether it's between Gina and Marek or any of the other characters.
This was a great little story and I can't wait to return to Clover Hill and see what happens next. Definitely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Told from both perspectives, it is Gina in the driving seat. Marek knows what he wants but respects Gina's decision. I loved the back and forth between the two of them, the easy camaraderie tinged with heat.
The pace is smooth and the story flows, giving a little suspense regarding Gina's niece in amongst the low-angst relationship drama. The conversations all seem natural and easy, whether it's between Gina and Marek or any of the other characters.
This was a great little story and I can't wait to return to Clover Hill and see what happens next. Definitely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
September 7, 2022
I don't blame Marek for wanting to stay in Clover Hill. The author has created a wonderful, welcoming small town that would attract anyone. Marek is in town because his dream sports car broke down and he was rescued by Gina. Gina had returned to Clover Hill after a divorce and is comfortably settled with a promise to avoid romantic entanglements. A promise to a great aunt, however, has her looking for a way to keep the promise and still avoid getting involved with anyone. Marek, in town just until his car is fixed perfectly fits that bill. Fortunately for both of them, however, the car repairs take longer than expected and as they spend time together the romantic sparks begin to fly. Loved the town and loved these two characters. Can't wait to read more in this series and see more of the town and its inhabitants.
I received an ARC of this book.
I received an ARC of this book.
August 30, 2022
4* from me for a small town vibe but full of lgbtqia+ characters and vocab and it's just such great fun. Also, characters in their late 30s!!! A mature relationship and a leading man who just deals with everything rationally, and there's no drama and panic and miscommunication. Oh! and Gina and her niece? I wanted more of that. Love their relationship. Wonderful.
Thanks so much to BookSirens for the chance to read this in exchange for my honest review, and please see above for how much I honestly enjoyed this read!
Thanks so much to BookSirens for the chance to read this in exchange for my honest review, and please see above for how much I honestly enjoyed this read!
August 16, 2022
Love the characters - Gina, with her scarred determination not to get involved and her love of board games, and Marek, geeky video game translator with no sense of direction. Love the setting, a queer-friendly small town with plenty of artistic influences and fun things to do. Love the blend of sex and romance and "oh, dear, I've run into you again here in town." Love the dialogue, witty and funny and revealing. Love the small touch of drama, with background worries about a niece in a less supportive environment, to remind us of why these kinds of stories are important. A fun, flirty read.
August 15, 2022
This was a pretty fun book. Gina and Marek took me a bit to warm up to, but once I did, I truly liked them. They were a good couple that balanced each other out, and I liked following them along their journey as they fell in love. I was very happy with their HEA, and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
September 16, 2022
So much heart
I loved this a lot. It’s a relatively quick read but it’s packed with heart and emotion. I adored how Gina and Marek communicated with each other. Where are these characters in real life? lol And I don’t think I’ve read a book by this author that hasn’t made me tear up and also smile.
I loved this a lot. It’s a relatively quick read but it’s packed with heart and emotion. I adored how Gina and Marek communicated with each other. Where are these characters in real life? lol And I don’t think I’ve read a book by this author that hasn’t made me tear up and also smile.
September 22, 2022
Cinnamon Rolls everywhere!
This is destined to be a (hot) comfort read classic.
(CW for offscreen child abandonment by homophobic parents, resolved by loving extended family taking custody.)
I'm sold on Clover Hill, & look forward to the rest of the books set in this shared world.
This is destined to be a (hot) comfort read classic.
(CW for offscreen child abandonment by homophobic parents, resolved by loving extended family taking custody.)
I'm sold on Clover Hill, & look forward to the rest of the books set in this shared world.
October 9, 2022
It's so refreshing to have a m/f romance with both parties being bi. Gina and Mareks meet-cute is pretty cute. Marek was so cute going around town getting to know everyone. I didn’t want the book to end, I wanted more!
I’m not sure if I would read the next book in the series only because it’s by a different author. However I will definitely be finding other books by Skye Kilean to read.
I’m not sure if I would read the next book in the series only because it’s by a different author. However I will definitely be finding other books by Skye Kilean to read.
October 17, 2022
sweet story, no big passions, but good and smart look at two people deciding to try and setting boundaries.
loved the characters.
loved the characters.
October 25, 2022
Charming, sexy. Love the town we've been given in this series and the hopes of these people for more.
November 5, 2022
Fun & sexy romance. The mid-thirties are a magical time for these shenanigans. They are totally ready for each other even if they don't always exactly know it.
January 1, 2023
I thoroughly enjoy this author's books.
August 12, 2023
Gina lives in a small town queer utopia, Mareks new fancy car breaks down right outside the town. They have a one night stand, which is followed by awkwardly getting to know each other better despite Ginas attempts to push anything that could make her life bigger away. I like how central nerd culture is to their relationship development. Another thing I really appreciate is how unlikeably flawed Gina is. She is scared to try again after her marriage that ended years ago, and her emotional struggle leads her to actually act like a dick.
I will say this is probably my least favorite book by Kilaen so far. I think there's just something missing from the way the pieces come together in this one, it lacks the spark that truly elevates it. Or maybe it's just that I'm allergic to small town settings where anonymity is impossible. But it's a fun time and I'm glad I read it.
I have seen some people criticize the "politically correct" commentary of this book as feeling somewhat forced at times, and I kind of agree. I do love to see some social commentary in romance, so that's not the problem. Most of the time it works in this one as well, but there's just a couple times that just kind of breaks immersion a bit - like those comments are there for the sake of being there rather than actually playing a role in character development or furthering the story in some way.
eArc provided by the author
I will say this is probably my least favorite book by Kilaen so far. I think there's just something missing from the way the pieces come together in this one, it lacks the spark that truly elevates it. Or maybe it's just that I'm allergic to small town settings where anonymity is impossible. But it's a fun time and I'm glad I read it.
I have seen some people criticize the "politically correct" commentary of this book as feeling somewhat forced at times, and I kind of agree. I do love to see some social commentary in romance, so that's not the problem. Most of the time it works in this one as well, but there's just a couple times that just kind of breaks immersion a bit - like those comments are there for the sake of being there rather than actually playing a role in character development or furthering the story in some way.
eArc provided by the author
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