Official Review: not today by stephen o'shea

[Kristy Khem]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "not today" by stephen o'shea.]

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2 out of 4 stars

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A young boutique owner, Jesse, is pursued by a wealthy businessman, Naveen, in the romance story, Not Today by Stephen O’Shea. Readers meet the pair in the middle of their complicated relationship where Jesse has misgivings about her feelings for Naveen, who she believes is still married. She tries to escape him by taking off on a holiday to Vienna, but coincidentally, the pair meets up again. Even if Jesse succumbs to Naveen’s sweet romance, can she escape his jealous ex-wife, Drizella? Only time will tell whether this duo will end up parting ways or if fate will give them another reason to stay together.

This was a very short romance book, but the plot moved quickly. The characters were given very stereotypical personalities, so reading this book felt more like watching a romantic comedy movie. For example, Naveen played the handsome wealthy hero who saved Jesse, the damsel in distress. Drizella played the villainous ex-wife who tried to ruin their romance. The plot had a few interesting twists, but some were predictable for this genre. Overall, the story was enjoyable, not because of its predictability, but because of its familiarity. As someone who has read many romance books and watched many romance shows, I can confidently say that Not Today had popular character personalities and plot.

What I disliked the most about the book was the sudden side story that popped up at the end. Suddenly, Jesse’s best friend, Corinne, takes center stage with a story of her own. I thought this was the prequel to an entirely different book, but it wasn’t. However, Corinne’s mysterious past seems like a story worth reading. Honestly, it seems more interesting and culturally diverse than Not Today. I think their story could be told in a separate book.

Moreover, I think the romantic aspect of the book could have been fleshed out a bit more. I’m not certain Jesse and Naveen fit together as a romantic couple. The romance was a tad dry and perhaps a little shallow. Apart from physical attraction, there doesn’t seem to be much that holds them together. Jesse’s feelings for Naveen or thoughts about being involved with him aren’t quite clear in the story. The book also lacked ample details from the couple’s past, such as how they fell in love. Additionally, this story lacked at least one intimate scene. This would have concreted the intimacy and love between Jesse and Naveen.

I was disappointed that this book wasn’t professionally edited. There were more than ten errors in the first seven pages, including typos and poor punctuation. Based on this, and the aforementioned reasons, I rate Not Today 2 out of 4 stars. Adults who are looking for a familiar, predictable romance story without steamy scenes will enjoy this book. However, if you like complex romances with more realistic characters, then you may find this story to be a bit boring.

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not today
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[AvidBibliophile]

I just received a package from Vienna, what are the odds of that coincidence?! And thanks for the helpful review, Kristy! It is nice to receive an honest depiction right up front regarding the safe but predictable plot line and character descriptions. I am personally more inclined to like a little extra meat on my romance book bones with some intimate details, but maybe after further editing, it would be a nice one to check out. And Drizella, what a fun yet evil name for a jealous ex-wife.

[tristenb]

I also have read quite a few romance novels and I also admit the plots are generally predictable and the people's personalities usually basic. I think it is common for the genre, but I do think that there definitely should have been more connection between Jesse and Naveen. It would have made the book more enjoyable to read at least. As for the poor editing, a good editor will do the trick. Thanks for the review!

[Stephanie Elizabeth]

The book sounds like a light summer read; complete with the usual personalities in romantic comedies. It is too bad that the author didn't make Corinne's development into a separate novel. Thanks for the lovely review!

[spluficvictory]

A book is tagged in the romance genre when it contains a good deal of romance and intimacy and hot scenes. It would be nice if the author can rectify that. Drizella, the name reminds me of one of Cinderella's ugly and evil sister. Thanks for the good review

[kandscreeley]

I don't read many romance novels. This one definitely seems too stereotypical even if I did. Thanks for your thoughts. I hope the author can use this to improve the book a bit.

[Kristy Khem]

I just received a package from Vienna, what are the odds of that coincidence?! And thanks for the helpful review, Kristy! It is nice to receive an honest depiction right up front regarding the safe but predictable plot line and character descriptions. I am personally more inclined to like a little extra meat on my romance book bones with some intimate details, but maybe after further editing, it would be a nice one to check out. And Drizella, what a fun yet evil name for a jealous ex-wife.

Wow! What a coincidence! And yes, Drizella is really an evil name! Thank you for commenting!

[MatereF]

Sounds like a wonderful romance story, too bad about the editing.