This book by Belle Aurora is a breath of fresh air. It differs from other books in the same sub-genre in so many ways.
Valentina Tomic the heroine has an upsetting history and negative experiences with the male lover in her past. She is however the role model for women who pull up their big girl panties and get on with life. She owns her own clothing store and has befriended the two sales girls that she works with. She loves life and loves the people around her. This up-beat character trait lifts the reader through out the story. You must love this lady. When her girlhood friend arrives to live with her the laughter doubles.
Nikolai Leokov, a night club owner which is located right across the street from Tina's store. He had some serious and momentous decisions to make when his father died. He chose to walk the path of honour as much as possible.
It isn't long before Tina has befriended not only Nik, but his brothers and cousin as well. The four girls from the shop and the four guys from the nightclub are soon a tight unit. Then Nik's past comes back to haunt him at the expense of Tina.
As the friendship builds so does the love. The author skillfully pens the changing thoughts and emotions of each of the Main characters. The unwavering loyalty of family and friends is also conveyed in a meaningful way.
You fell in love with the characters as they fell in love with each other. Chuckles and head shaking abound as you read. You can't believe the words or ideas as they spill from the fun loving mind of Tina. this was a page turner that became a friend. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.