Mine to Keep by Natasha Madison

I started 2024 off with a new-to-me author, Natasha Madison. Her ‘Southern Wedding’ series was all over social media last year, especially book 6, which I can’t wait to read. But today we’re talking about the newest release, Mine to Keep, which is book 8 in the series. Even though it’s part of a larger series, I found it easy to read as a standalone.

**I received a free, advanced copy of this book for reviewing purposes. Thank you to the author, Natasha Madison, and to Wildfire Marketing Solutions for including me in this release!**

The Story

Grace, determined to make it on her own without the help of her wealthy family, gets a job as an assistant, while also going to school at night. Caine, her new boss and single father, immediately writes her off as too young and immature. He has no problem making his irritation known. He makes a dig at her every chance he gets, to the point that on her first day, Grace puts out animal crackers and juice during a meeting.

Then there’s Caine’s daughter Meadow. Meadow is adorable, and it’s not difficult to see why Caine spoils her (but not in a bad way). When Grace sees ‘Daddy Caine,’ and the dynamic he has with Meadow, she’s a goner. And honestly, who could blame her?

The banter between Grace and Caine is too funny. It was fast paced, and reminded me a lot of Gilmore Girls. Grace is always quick with a comeback, and doesn’t give Caine the opportunity to get the upper hand. In those moments, she’s kind of the girl that we all think we are or want to be in arguments. For me, the reality is so the opposite.

My Verdict on Mine to Keep

Overall, I give this book 4 out of 5 stars. There were some moments, especially in the second half that seemed rushed or glossed over. And there were a few points where I was trying to figure out the mechanics of what was happening because it didn’t make sense to me. Most of that was just me. But, there is one moment in particular where I have no idea how it would have worked (and couldn’t figure it out). Some people may not even notice it, or they may read it and have no confusion with it.

I loved the banter, characters, and the slow buildup in the beginning. And I mean a slow buildup. The spice did not begin until past the halfway point, which I appreciated. The story needed that extra time, but when it finally happens, you’re so ready for it. The spice wasn’t the spiciest thing I’ve read, but I didn’t expect it to be on the same level as other books I’ve read.

While not a 5 star book, or the highest on the spice scale, I think this book starts my 2024 reading off strong!