Forbidden Hearts by Corinne Michaels

*** Review ***

Forbidden Hearts by Corinne Michaels is an engaging and heartfelt romance novel that explores the complexities of forbidden love, age-gap relationships, and the challenges of single parenthood. Michaels weaves a captivating story filled with sizzling chemistry, endearing characters, and a touch of emotional turmoil. While the novel has its strengths, a plot twist in the third act falls short, leaving a slightly unsatisfying taste.

The story follows the unlikely connection between grumpy small-town sheriff Asher Whitlock and Phoebe, a determined and intelligent woman who becomes his daughter’s nanny for the summer. Despite their initial reluctance and the unspoken rule of not getting involved with each other, their undeniable attraction and chemistry draw them closer together. Michaels excels in capturing the tension between Asher and Phoebe, infusing their interactions with playful banter and sparking dialogue. The slow burn romance between the two protagonists is beautifully developed, leaving readers rooting for their love to triumph against all odds.

One of the book’s greatest strengths lies in the relatable and well-rounded characters. Asher emerges as a devoted single father, showcasing his love and dedication to his daughter, Olivia, who is deaf. Michaels handles the representation of special needs with sensitivity and realism, incorporating Olivia’s deafness into the narrative in a unique and authentic way. Phoebe, on the other hand, is a smart and sassy character, but her vulnerability stemming from her past adds depth and complexity to her pursuit of her degree and her relationship with Asher. Readers will easily connect with these characters, becoming invested in their journey and experiencing a range of emotions alongside them.

Michaels skillfully blends lighthearted moments with deeper emotional layers, creating a balance between the romantic aspects and the characters’ personal struggles. The tender and heartfelt connection between Asher and Phoebe is palpable throughout the story, making their forbidden love even more captivating. The author’s exploration of the forbidden romance trope adds a sense of urgency and heightened emotions, as the characters constantly struggle to resist their growing feelings for each other. This forbidden flair adds an element of tension that keeps readers eagerly turning the pages.

However, the novel stumbles with a plot twist introduced in the third act. While the author likely intended to add a shock factor, this twist felt forced and out of place. It detracted from the overall flow of the story and left readers feeling somewhat disconnected from the narrative. This particular element could have been better executed or replaced with a more organic plot development that stayed true to the characters and their journey.

Despite this misstep, Forbidden Hearts remains a captivating and enjoyable read. Michaels delivers a story filled with engaging characters, palpable chemistry, and a beautifully portrayed forbidden romance. The light and less angst-ridden tone of the novel sets it apart from other contemporary romances, making it a refreshing addition to the genre. Fans of age-gap and small-town romances will find themselves fully immersed in the world of Asher and Phoebe, rooting for their love while navigating the challenges that come their way.

In conclusion, Forbidden Hearts by Corinne Michaels is a delightful and engaging romance novel that successfully explores the complexities of forbidden love and single parenthood. While a plot twist in the third act falls short, the strength of the characters, the realistic representation of special needs, and the tender connection between the protagonists make this a worthwhile read. Michaels proves her ability to craft an emotionally charged love story that will leave readers both satisfied and eagerly awaiting her future works.