A review by women_using_words
Bachelorette Number Twelve by Jae

emotional funny hopeful inspiring reflective relaxing medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Bachelorette Number Twelve by Jae is a well-crafted, feel-good story that skillfully intertwines humor and vulnerability to deliver a slow-burn, annoyed-coworkers-to-lovers romance. Jae is in her element with this tale and it shows. She handily portrays the complexities of life and its impact on the human spirit with authenticity and sensitivity, all while creating meaningful relationships amongst her characters. This book, just like her others, showcases her versatility and insight as an author, underscoring why she is one of the most talented sapphic writers around today.

The story idea for Bachelorette Number Twelve combines a couple of different notions from popular television: 1) the showcasing of single, eligible people for a chance at love with one lucky winner, and 2) a hospital ER filled with the kind of beautiful faces and colorful personalities one would find on Grey’s Anatomy. Jae takes these ideas and centers them around two fantastic characters—Regina Novak, an uptight and chilly ER physician, and Ellie Fisher, a warm-hearted, kind nurse. 

Regina and Ellie’s relationship is initially characterized by mutual disagreements and eye-rolling clashes on nearly everything under the sun. All of that begins to change though after a hospital charity bachelor/bachelorette auction where Ellie ends up accidentally casting the winning bid for Regina. Since the money raised is for a good cause, the two reluctantly decide to go through with the planned three dates and social media promotions. However, as they spend more time together, they find themselves developing feelings for one another despite their initial animosity.

Jae expertly crafts a diverse cast of characters, each with their own distinct personalities and backgrounds. They all work to provide depth and dimension to the storytelling. Yet, it’s these two main characters that really make the story shine. Regina is a strong and independent woman who struggles with vulnerability, trust, and control issues; she’s built a wall around her heart to protect herself. However, Regina’s defenses begin to slowly crumble in the presence of Ellie’s charm and charisma. It’s through their newly developing relationship that she learns to confront her past and trust in the goodness of people. Funnily enough, Ellie learns things about herself too as she draws closer to Regina. Together they discover that being vulnerable changes everything, especially when love is involved. 

Regina and Ellie’s journey resonates with readers for several reasons. As Regina—dubbed Doctor McIcy—is gradually melted by Ellie’s warm support, and friendship, readers begin to see Regina for who she really is. Most importantly though, Ellie begins to see her for what she really is, and she can’t help but fall in love with that person. Their path to HEA is emotional, well-developed, and touching. As vulnerabilities are explored and love is discovered, readers can’t help but be heartwarmed. Their romance is root-worthy in every way.

Besides friendship, trust, and love, this novel also tackles some serious themes. But, just as one would expect, Jae handles them with finesse. As Regina and Ellie’s vulnerabilities are explored, she employs her gentle humor, softening heavy moments with heartwarming scenes and smile-worthy banter. These well-penned exchanges add depth and authenticity to the storytelling, making Regina and Ellie’s interactions more engaging and meaningful. This is why Jae remains a standout: her timely and tender humor is not only beautifully applied, it’s praiseworthy.

Final remarks…

Readers will appreciate this well-written, slow-burn romance. Designed around likable, strong-willed women, Bachelorette Number Twelve is filled with lighthearted humor, heartwarming scenes, and deliciously romantic moments. It offers a perfect balance of love, humor, and angst, making it a wonderful read. The audiobook version, narrated by Lori Prince, offers sapphic romance lovers another way to enjoy this fantastic story. Her performance is top shelf, capturing the tone and feel of the narrative splendidly; her voice makes the storytelling come alive. The characters are portrayed with the grace of a true artist. Bottom line—ebook, paperback or audiobook—this heartfelt, grumpy/sunshine romance needs to be on your reading list.

Strengths…

  • Well-written 
  • Touching and tender
  • Humorous 
  • Likable characters 
  • Delicious romantic moments 
  • Great chemistry between the leads
  • Highly recommend