cover image Couples Wanted

Couples Wanted

Briana Cole. Dafina, $15.95 trade paper (272p) ISBN 978-1-4967-2957-6

Set in Atlanta, this sisterhood- and sex-fueled drama from Cole (The Wives We Play) offers a modicum of suspense along with a dollop of stalking and brutality against women. Bridget, the owner of a highly successful party planning company, and Corrine, a beautiful and talented caterer, meet seemingly by chance. Soon the two become friendly, with Corrine suggesting a new client for Bridget’s company, millionaire entrepreneur Marco Richards. Bridget meets him at his vast, secluded estate. Marco explains that one of his ventures is the Shadow Lounge, a very private club that meets at the estate, and whose motto seems to be: “What happens in the shadow stays in the shadow.” Despite some mild trepidation, she agrees to organize the club’s extravagant, sexy Cirque du Soleil–themed event. The Shadow Lounge is for swingers only, and soon Bridget pairs up with Corrine’s husband, while Corrine enjoys the company of Bridget’s husband. Sex, misunderstandings, obsession, difficult family histories, tears, anger, fear, abuse, threats, more sex, and finally forgiveness parade through the narrative. This is for those seeking a quick, easy escape laced with a bit of titillation. Agent: N’Tyse, N’Tyse Enterprises. (Dec.)