After really loving Delilah Green Doesn't Care, I was excited to read Ashley Herring Blake's second book in the series- Astrid Parker Doesn't Fail. Set in the same charming small town with reprisals of many of the characters from book one, this is the story of Astrid. We find Astrid struggling with her interior design business, swimming through redesigns that all feel the same, unsure of what her style actually is. She's also trying to bounce back from breaking it off less than a year ago with her fiance. 

When Astrid gets the chance to work on an exciting project that will be televised, she meets Jordan. Jordan is strong, emotionally and physically, but it turns out she has recently been through a lot as well. Astrid feels a quick chemistry with Jordan but the build up to spice and romance is gradual. The second half of this book has plenty of spice, but there's also the complexity of Astrid realizing she is not straight- which she spent 30 years thinking she was. I loved how Blake commented on what its like to learn about yourself at any age and the story around Astrid coming out to herself and her mom was really thoughtful. 

I usually hate a third act breakup, but in this book it made sense. I won't say more than that to avoid spoilers; there is definitely believability, sincere apologies, and good communication in this romance. Those things together helped me not mind things that usually make me cringe, namely the third act breakup and a grand gesture. 

Overall, I think this is a romance that hits the mark. I'll keep reading from this author and I hope you'll try her books as well.