Party of Two

LOCAL AUTHOR

When female leads in Jasmine Guillory’s books are stressed or overwhelmed, they turn to the comfort of Desperate Housewives to escape into a world full of simple problems, engaging drama, and easy-to-digest dialogue. When I feel stressed or overwhelmed, I turn to Guillory’s books, which consistently encompass the same aforementioned elements — and Party of Two is one of Guillory’s best and most fun distractions yet.

This latest novel features Olivia Monroe, a former New York big law partner returning home to California to start her own firm. Upon moving into her new home, Olivia stays a few nights at a hotel, where she encounters a handsome man, Max, who has a shared appreciation for cake in addition to his dreamy smile. After a few more chance encounters, Olivia soon realizes that her mystery Max is really Max Powell: the famous California Senator. Though her impulse is to run from a relationship sure to put her personal life in the spotlight, Olivia and Max soon develop deeper feelings for one another, and both must decide what they are willing to put on the line for love.

As with any romance novel, there are pieces of the relationship that feel unrealistic or underdeveloped, but what sets Party of Two apart is the strong voice of our female lead, Olivia. She is more than just a love interest; she is a courageous woman who climbed her way through sexism and racism to success, and we cheer her on as she battles for her career alongside her romance. We see how she challenges Max to do better, to recognize his own privilege, while we also watch her learn to balance strength and vulnerability as Max helps her become better, too. With Party of Two, Guillory has crafted the ideal romance novel — one that is easy to devour, but leaves readers with a bit to chew on before swallowing up.