Long time, no see! I took a break in July to work on some personal education (getting my real estate license!) but I am back now, on a new schedule. And boy, do I have a great first review back for you.

Oml, I love Tessa Bailey! This series is magic, and this sequel I’ve long been awaiting did not disappoint! Wes and Bethany are my favorite characters so far.

If you’ve read any other Hot and Hammered novels, you’ll know that Wes and Bethany don’t exactly get along. Every time they’re in a room together, words start flying and attitudes can’t be kept in check. But for them, that’s half the fun…

As Bethany gets ready to do her first house flip on her own, apart from the family company, Wes “Zellweggers” and jumps on board as her foreman. Though they have a rocky start, the flip is bringing them together in ways they never imagined. Through the emotional pain of proving to herself that she doesn’t have to be perfect, and for him to raise his niece on his own, the two need one another.

I’m a sucker for enemies-to-lovers stories. After all, it is Sally Thorne’s The Hating Game that got me obsessed with this genre in the first place. Bailey absolutely nails this trope in the same way Thorne does: the banter is just witty enough to keep you smiling and on the edge of your seat, but the wholesome mix of support coming from the back is also what I’m here for. Particularly after this third novel of hers that I’ve read, I have so much respect for Bailey’s storytelling. It’s quick and cute, and a whole lot of fun to read.

I’m ALSO a huge sucker for kiddos in romance books. I’m sure I’ve mentioned this before. *facepalm – because I should’ve known I couldn’t be unbiased about this book when it’s filled with ALL MY FAVORITE THINGS* Laura is the PERFECT distraction from tension and the most adorable of sidekicks for Wes. Her whole existence helps frame Wes and Bethany in different lights, and helps them overcome their faults just enough to be together. It’s perfect, she’s perfect, I’m here for it.

Getting to see Bailey’s other phenomenal characters (Georgie & Travis, and Rosie and Dominic) living their new lives together in the wake of their own stories was so sweet. I love being able to see beyond the traditional romance we get to be a part of. I hope this series continues, though I don’t know which characters we’d follow next (usually, you can kind of guess!).

Anyways, 100% recommend. Finished it in one night. Couldn’t stop myself. Love it. Highly, highly recommend the WHOLE stories!

A copy of Tools of Engagement was provided to me by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. It’ll be available September 22, 2020!