Review: Heat Stroke by Tessa Bailey

Five Stars

As soon as I was finished with MOUTH TO MOUTH (the first book in the Beach Kingdom series) I knew I needed Jamie Prince’s story immediately. A good Tessa Bailey novel is like eating a rich dessert: it’s delicious so you try to savor it, and it leaves you with a sugar high. HEAT STROKE made my cheeks hurt from grinning so much, I cried once or twice, and I fanned myself because WHEW, Ms. Bailey always brings the heat.

The story follows Jamie, an economics professor and out and proud gay man who works with his brothers as a lifeguard and bartender over the summers; and Marcus, a loud, slightly ridiculous, CrossFit loving man who is just figuring out sexuality and is confused about his growing feelings for Jamie.

MARCUS. My sweet, adorable, lovable, hunk of a hero. I adore him and his pure spirit. I actually had to put my kindle down a time or two and just say, “I love him.” I think I could write this whole review talking about my deep and abiding adoration for Marcus if I didn’t love Jamie tons, and tons as well. Ms. Bailey handled Marcus’ emerging sexuality and confusion with sensitivity and respect.

I think my favorite part about this book was how much Marcus and Jamie liked and appreciated each other. Marcus was confused, but never about how wonderful he thought Jamie was. Watching Jamie figure out how much Marcus meant to him was a gosh darn delight as well.

I know I mentioned the heat earlier, but woah, the HEAT. There is a reason it’s in the title. Each sexy scene wasn’t just hot though, it was emotional and special for both Marcus and Jamie. As a reader, I could feel their connection the whole time.

Overall, this is my favorite Tessa Bailey series so far. Both books have been bananas amazing and fun. I can’t wait for the third book! I’m already dying for it.

**I received an ARC of this book in order to provide an honest review**

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