Felice By Kathleen Bittner Roth

Felice Series: Bayou Bad Boys Series Book #2
on April 28, 2020
Genres: Fiction / Romance / Historical / Victorian
Pages: 384
Goodreads

When beautiful shipping heiress Felicité Marielle Christiane Andrews finally returns to New Orleans after two years abroad, she does not expect to come face to face with the man she cannot forget—or to find him more captivating than ever. Now she must remind herself that she:

Lives a fabulous life in England
Is engaged to marry a fine man of nobility
Cannot allow the wicked Cajun back into her life. . .

...But indeed, she does.

Charismatic René Thibodeaux, illegitimate son of a voodoo witch, has worked hard to rise above his poverty-stricken bayou youth. He's put his thieving and womanizing days behind him and earned a high-ranking position at Felice's father's company. Seeing her again only intensifies his longing for her—and his deep remorse for his past foolishness. But despite his success, he must remind himself:

He is unworthy of Felice in every way
She is forbidden fruit
He will do anything to win her—even risk his life. . .

Felice is book two 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. This book is very well written. Felice 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 aligned 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. At that moment, he wasn’t quite sure if the deep need he was feeling belonged to him, to her, or the merging of two desperate people seeking a safe harbor in an uncertain world.” Usually, 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.