This spin-off of “When Hearts Dare” series has me once again meeting up with a couple of those characters in the Bayou, folks. What can I say? Other than I could not be happier and cannot wait for all of these Bayou bad boy brothers to get their own HEA.

Felice and Rene’s love story was still a work in progress from the get go of this book. Literally from the ground up since it was completely burnt to ashes when Felice left three years ago. Yeah, things did not end well between them. Thanks to Rene striking the match and torching both their hearts in the process. Rene knows he did not do right by this leading lady, still carries the guilt, and hopes to now remedy that. But, alas, there are still obstacles in the way. However, nothing can stop their smoldering attraction and sizzling chemistry, both which fan the flames and won’t let this hope of love completely die out.

During this separation, both of them were not celibate. Make of that what you must. She’s returned with an English Duke to marry. At his insistence he keeps her at arm’s length. Yeah, no hanky panky there, but she did have a brief affair awhile back she regrets. Rene soon cuts loose a manipulating widow lover upon Felice’s return. Both of these sub-characters took side turns I found rather distasteful. A simple heads up not to feel sorry for them. They did add to the plot development the author was obviously shooting for though.

I’ve got to say I absolutely loved Felice’s snarky and sassy comebacks. Some may find her overly so, but I much prefer that over a weak minded heroine. She always had something on her mind and wasn’t hesitant to share it with the rest of the world, namely Rene and her brothers. Rene’s frequent, smoldering stare often did a lot of his talking.

In wrap-up, just know I stayed completely riveted and finished this story in one sitting. I cannot wait for future sequels, my fellow romance Bayou book loving friends. Bring it on, Ms. Roth. I am so ready for some more ragin’ Cajun romantic tales!

Title: Felice, Series: Bayou Bad Boys (Book 1), Author: Kathleen Bittner Roth, Pages: 384, stand-alone but part of a series, handsome Cajun hero, second chance romance, sassy, quick with a comeback, feisty heroine, non-virgin MC, not celibate during previous 3 year separation, no sex with OP upon her return, crazy ex-lover drama, not romance safe for some, never healed/got over each other.. Rating: 4.5 stars

When Hearts Dare: Book 1 - Celine, Book 2 - Alanna, Book 3 - Josette

Bayou Bad Boys: Book 1 - Felice

(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review. There is no relationship between this reviewer and the author, publisher, or NetGalley.)

I found this an enthralling read. It reminded me of the early Kathleen Woodiwiss and Judith McNaught novels that were my introduction to romance books in the 1990s. It has everything one could wish for in a classic, timeless romance - a lush, evocative setting, (visiting New Orleans just went to the top of my bucket list!), a dark, brooding hero, feisty heroine, a forbidden love and plenty of plot twists before the longed for happy ever after. Just dreamy!

Felice is book one in the Bayou Bad Boys series by Kathleen Bittner Roth. This series picks up where the “When Hearts Dare” series ends. Although it isn’t necessary to read that series before this one, I think it would add to the reader’s experience to read them in order. I thought this book was very well written. Felicite Andrews has just returned home to Louisiana from England with her fiance on her arm when she encounters her old flame, Rene Thibodeaux. I enjoyed the chemistry in her relationship with Rene. “I could use a hug,” she said in a soft, wavering voice. “That is, if you don’t mind.” “I figured you might.” He stepped forward and opened his arms. She slipped into them like a rose petal on a summer wind, all soft and sweet-smelling. She rested her cheek against his chest, her body aligning with his, radiating warmth. He put his face in her hair, moved a hand along her back in a slow, soothing gesture. Her breath, as she relaxed against him, penetrated his shirt and heated his skin. A t that moment, he wasn’t quite sure if the deep need he was feeling belonged to him, to her, or to the merging of two desperate people seeking a safe harbor in an uncertain world.” Normally, I wouldn’t read a book about New Orleans or its history. But this story intrigued me. I found it to be very creative and enchanting. I had a hard time putting it down. Roth does a magnificent job of layering her characters and giving them a depth that is rare to find in romance. I can’t wait to read more by this author. I was given a copy of this book.