Title: AFM
Author: Joy Ballentine
Publisher: XlibrisUS
ISBN: 978-1664127746
Pages: 576
Genre: Literature & Fiction / Erotica
Reviewed by: Tony Espinoza

Read Book Review

As with anything else in life, relationships are incredibly complex and layered. Whether it is the relationship we have with our parents, a sibling, or something more complex such as the feelings for a longtime friend or even a romantic interest, relationships come in all shapes and sizes, and no one can predict how a relationship will evolve and grow overtime. Sometimes relationships which seem solid on paper can turn to dust before our very eyes, while relationships put on hold may hold happiness we never knew existed. As Hugh Mackay once said, “Nothing is perfect. Life is messy. Relationships are complex. Outcomes are uncertain. People are irrational.”

In author Joy Ballentine’s book “AFM,” the author explores the nature of relationships in an erotic drama like no other. Longtime mechanic Brie is set to marry Roland James St.

Pierre, ESQ, and goes by the name Bridget now. Forced to become the proper southern belle his family expects, Brie soon seeks the help of her friend and ally Axel upon discovering a secret about her soon to be husband. Soon, Brie has to deal with a relentless and wealthy family, as she and Axel grow closer and closer together.

This is a brilliant example of an author who managed to create the heat and passion one expects from an erotic romance novel – and blend it with complex and emotional storytelling. The mixing of drama from the fallout of Brie’s conflict with the St. Pierre family, and Roland with the building romance between her and Axel are incredibly compelling for readers as the story progresses. What stood out was the amazing character development, especially for protagonists Brie and Axel. The fusion of southern and biker cultures and the way the author alternated between Brie’s and Axel’s POV was an inspired choice by the author.

This is the perfect read for those who enjoy fictional tales that blend erotic romance stories with drama and intrigue. As a fan of romances, it was great to see the more adult erotic moments actually added credence and layers to the budding romance of the two protagonists. The story flowed so smoothly and readers will be invested in the evolving story of these two lovers, especially Brie’s evolution that showcases how she doesn’t change, but instead finds herself once again after realing her life and personality were altered by a false idea of love.

A masterful, romantic and lengthy-yet engaging read, author Joy Ballentine’s “AFM” is a must-read erotica and drama novel. The balance the author found between romance and erotic storytelling was inspired, and fans of the genre will not be able to get enough of these protagonists or their story.