GRR Reviews Tristan on a Harley (Louisiana Knights) by Jennifer Blake

Tristan on a Harley is a bit hard to rate for me. On the one hand, I like the way the relationships are set up, but on the other hand, I can't help but feel this book has almost the same plot framework as the previous book in the series, Galahad in Jeans. Both books featured an odd pairing, a bit of forced cohabitation, and a third-party douchebag evil that threaten the couple's happiness. On the other hand, it's the delivery that counts, and Jennifer Blake, the author, certainly managed to deliver that in spades.

To recap, Zeni walked away from her life and wandered into the quaint southern town of Charmelot, Lousiana and hadn't left since. She has a job at the cafe, has a boss Tristan "Trey" Benedict who is handsome, rides a Harley, and gave her warm friend feel that she sometimes wonder if they can be more, not that he would ever act on it. Zeni knew she is an exotic mix of races, a bit of an unconventional beauty, but she is deeply ashamed that she doesn't really know who her father was, which is why she never talks about it. When a film crew rolled into town wanting to use the town as a backdrop for the latest blockbuster and the producer / star wanted to tap Zeni for a part, Zeni was suspicious. When Trey voiced his opposition, Zeni had the mind to show up her annoying boss just to prove she can. When the producer gets a bit too hands-on with Zeni, Trey stepped up and announced that Zeni is his fiancee. Zeni was both horrified and delighted that Trey was willing to move the relationship forward... but it's just an act, right? What if he found out that she's not who she seems to be?

Ah, the "faux bad boy" with the heart of gold, such a trope. But Zeni is nice mix of vulnerability and determination. There is even a bit of suspense when someone sabotaged the track and then guns got involved. Yeah, it got messy. But when a book can include guys in medieval armor jousting a ring while riding a Harley... and make it work, you had to admire it's a fun book.

Category: Contemporary

Primary Plot: Cafe barista Zeni, wooed by movie producer, really wanted to see if she can get anywhere with her boss Tristan instead...

Tropes: triangle, different worlds, hot for boss, performer

Overall Rating:  5/5