Queen B’s Decree: Troublemaker features our next Haven sister, Rory. Rory was…a difficult character to like in Charmer, but I knew that I’d love getting to know the real her.
Her MMC is Nash, eight years younger than her, and best friends with her little sister. She even babysat him when they were both kids. But Nash has been pining for her for 10 years, and now that she’s divorced, there’s nothing stopping him from shooting his shot.
Troublemaker was such an enjoyable read. Rory is basically having a life crisis, coming to terms with what she wants, accepting herself, and not letting other people (mostly men and gossipy townspeople) stop her for going after her dreams. And Nash is the one that is always 100% supportive and pushing her to be honest and open and be herself.
The age gap didn’t feel problematic; with Nash’s upbringing, he has been basically an adult for most of his childhood.
There was a third act break-up that I was prepared for, but Rory’s grand gesture was really heartwarming and saved the day. Overall, Troublemaker was a perfect mix of small town, spice, and forbidden and I was totally here for it.
Book: Troublemaker by Brighton Walsh
Series: Havenbrook #2
Genre: Contemporary
Plot Devices/Tropes: reverse age gap, single mom