I really enjoy reading contemporary romance novels because of the low angst issues we encounter. I also enjoy reading authors I haven’t read before to gain new experiences and possibly discover new works to devour!
This upcoming release includes all of the above! Check out my review and thoughts below.
The Dating Prohibition by Taj McCoy
Publisher: MIRA
Publication date: September 2, 2025
ISBN-13: 978-0778368588
OVERVIEW:
Now that Kendra’s returned home, she can’t help feeling like a kid again—back in her big brother’s shadow, trying to get her restaurant off the ground while his new venture is flying high right out of the gate. It doesn’t help that everyone refuses to stop calling her Keke, the childhood nickname she loathes.
The only bright spot is her longtime crush BJ. He’s been her big brother’s best friend for most of her life, and he’s always been that cool, chill guy who was easy to talk to and made her laugh. Now he’s looking at her like she’s all grown up, and there’s nothing childish about the chemistry brewing between them. Even better, he takes her dreams seriously, and he’s ready to help her make her supper club a reality.
But then BJ extinguishes the sparks flying between them, insisting nothing romantic can ever happen because she’s “off limits.” As her investors fall through and her best chance at fulfilling her professional dreams points toward leaving home again for a fresh start, will BJ be ready for love before Kendra moves on? Or will he sweep her off her feet when she least expects it?
The Dating Prohibition by Taj McCoy Review
Have you ever read a book where you want to talk back to the characters and give them the what for…
I really enjoyed this book in many ways. But the story frustrated me in several ways, too. Let’s start with the likes.
- Strong female lead
- Focused and driven
- Hard working
- Major crush on a hottie
- Loads of steamy, hot scenes
The female lead has great relationships with her brother (luv him) and some close relatives. That is a strong part of the overall story. The relationships were fun and supportive (mostly). McCoy tapped into the family connections, dinners, business acumen, and tight support systems.
But with that came some of the issues that frustrated this reader:
- Nothing is sacred – not keeping secrets and talking behind other people’s backs
- Some family members were not supportive and condescending
- Man crush is using her and not forthcoming with his issues
- Communication between them was terrible
- Main focus of the story is finding a location for her restaurant – Space descriptions ad nauseum
- She forgave him everything, while he had to “choose her”
The plot was enjoyable and included some great twists. The romance was hot, and that man was delicious, but he carried baggage he would not share.
Overall, McCoy delivered a story that is fresh and real, which makes it a standout. I will definitely be reading her works again!
3.5 rolled to 4 STARS!!
Disclaimer: Chris has personally reviewed the product listed above. She has not received any monetary compensation for her review but did receive a free ebook so she could evaluate and use it for this post. Her thoughts & opinions in this review are unbiased & honest and your opinions may differ.
Hi! I’m Chris! Just a Midlife Wife sharing about life’s journey; screaming and kicking through it while supposedly aging gracefully…
Focusing on healthy living, low carb & keto, things I am loving right now, and life in general.