Blame It on the Brontes, by Annie Sereno

Although I've got to admit that I found Athena more annoying than lovable, I did enjoy the story. She has a quick temper and little patience, both traits that get her in trouble. Back in her hometown to write a book that will hopefully save her job, she encounters an old flame. Much to her dismay, she finds that the attraction to Thorne is still there. Even worse, she's put in the position of working part time for him as a waitress since the woman who hired her has left and he is now in charge of the restaurant. Her hopes of getting in and out of town quickly as she tries to find an elusive author seem futile, too, as all her efforts go nowhere.

The same can't be said for Athena and Thorn's relationship, however, which alternately heats up and cools down, usually based on Athena's actions or words. How will it turn out for these two? Will Athena learn that love isn't what you read about in books but what you do in real life? Will Thorne tire of her antics, temper, and impetuous words and actions? Why is she so fixated on finding this one, elusive author? Will she ever discover who author C.L. Garland is? After all, the author lives in her hometown. Surely it shouldn't be this hard to find out who Garland is, do interviews, then flee out of town away from Thorne and all the memories and emotions his closeness conjure up. And what's going on with her divorced mother and father? Will Athena ever succeed in getting her father to clean up after himself? Nah. Though he has suddenly adopted a more dapper dress. What is up with that? Will Athena and Thorne ever come together?

All these questions and far more are answered in "Blame It on the Brontes', the title a good hint of the many literary references you'll encounter in the book. Even though I wasn't fond of Athena, I enjoyed visiting her hometown and watching from afar. No, one never watches from afar in a romance book's small town. You are quickly pulled in and somehow feel a part of it all. That is what makes this such a special book. Cute cover, fun idea, and fun fireworks and heat. Romance lovers will enjoy this one.

 Thank you #NetGallery and #Forever for giving me a ringside seat to Athena and Thorne's story. I enjoyed my visit to their hometown.