Rules of Attraction by Simone Elkeles

Reviewed for Traveling ARC Tours

Publication date:4/13/10

FTC: reviewed for Traveling ARC Tours

Rating: 3.5 purrs

Summary:

When Carlos Fuentes returns to America after living in Mexico for a year, he doesn’t want any part of the life his older brother, Alex, has laid out for him at a high school in Colorado. Carlos likes living his life on the edge and wants to carve his own path—just like Alex did. Then he meets Kiara Westford. She doesn’t talk much and is completely intimidated by Carlos’ wild ways. As they get to know one another, Carlos assumes Kiara thinks she’s too good for him, and refuses to admit that she might be getting to him. But he soon realizes that being himself is exactly what Kiara needs right now.

Thoughts:

STEAMY!

I started to read Rules of Attraction during a snowstorm where we didn't get as much snow as expected. I'm giving credit to the steamy romance scenes in Rules of Attraction for the change in temperature and weather.

I find it impossible to write this review without comparing it to the first book, Perfect Chemistry. There are a lot more graphic sexual scenes in Rules of Attraction. At least it sure felt that way. While I felt a strong physical connection between Carlos and Kiara I didn't feel as much of an emotional connection. One of the great things about PC is that emotional connection between the two main characters. I felt that was somewhat lacking in this sequel. I know they were supposed to be in love, but it didn't feel that way to me.

I also didn't like Kiara nearly as much as Brittany. I didn't feel that her background was interesting enough. She basically has the perfect family with very few problems. I probably would have liked her more if she had an alcoholic father or something.

Both of these books have a formula that works. That is mostly why I gave Rules of Attraction 3.5 purrs but I did not feel that this book was necessary at all. I keep getting the two titles mixed up! I've had to go back and make corrections on this review because I keep calling Rules of Attraction Perfect Chemistry! O_O

One thing that ROA had going for it that PC did not was the ending. No cheesy and annoying epilogue this time around. Thank you very much! Another was that both Alex and Brittany make appearance in ROA. I just adore those two! <3