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bandherbooks 's review for:

Beautiful Sinner by Sophie Jordan
3.0

Gabriella Cruz is reluctantly back home to take care of her Grandmother as she recovers from surgery. She never wanted to return like this, with a journalism career that doesn't make her happy, single, and still reeling from the news the man she had a crush on in high school was just released from prison after being wrongfully imprisoned for the murder of her cousin. The man she shared her first kiss with all those years ago, even if she was known as "Flabby Gabby." And it appears the feelings are mutual as she and Cruz are accidentally locked in a closet, trapped together with all those simmering feelings from so long ago.

Super fun and quick read, I enjoyed the unrequited lovers aspect of these two damaged souls who both desperately wanted the other for years but were afraid to say it out loud. I do wish there was more exploration of their feelings for each other outside of the sheer sexual tension, but whatever, I liked it!

Also, make sure to read [b:Beautiful Lawman|35059558|Beautiful Lawman (Devil's Rock, #4)|Sophie Jordan|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1495175657l/35059558._SY75_.jpg|55135962] by Sophie Jordan first, otherwise you may be a little lost about Cruz's back story for being in prison. It is discussed, albeit briefly, so this can stand alone, but the reader will understand him a bit better.

CW for fatphobia, discussion of eating habits, being shamed for eating, on-page sexual assault (Gabriella's ex-brother in law is gross), physical violence (Gabriella's sister slaps her), bullying.