Book: The Last Minute First Lady
Author: Tinia Montford
Published: December 22, 2022
Wine Choice: Chaos Theory
Stand Alone, Series, or Other: Stand Alone
Type of book: Novel
Genre: Contemporary Romance (with a hint of Mystery maybe…)
Subgenre: Fake Relationship
How long did it take me to read this book? Two Weeks
Audible/Google/ Spotify: Spotify
Overall rating: Three out of Five Wine Glasses
In my very own way, I started reading a book while trying to finish another. During Spring, it was hard for me to focus. I figured a quick, fun read to decompress would help release stress that was blocking my focus. Sidebar, I saw an Instagram reel by a person who was worried about the overconsumption of reading. I have thoughts on that statement. We are battling an anti-intellectual movement, and this individual thinks people are reading too much. I wish I had saved the link to share it, but I rolled my eyes at the whole reel.
I saw this book on Spotify, “The Last Minute First Lady” by Tinia Montford. I committed the cardinal sin: judging a book by its cover. I assumed it would be a quirky romantic comedy about two people running for office. It could have also focused on a campaign manager. The narrative could have included the campaign manager and the candidate starting a romance while trying to win the office. ( This is what happens when you don’t read the description provided.) I was intrigued and figured a fun book would be great to read. Once I started reading the book, I realized it was a romantic story. It was about a relationship of convenience. The story had a heavy intrigue vibe. On a scale of 1 to 10, in terms of mystery, it was a two. To me, there is some mystery and conspiracy, but no murder or death.
In the story, we meet Journalist Jolie Caldwell. She is fighting for a promotion at work. At the same time, she is maintaining her moral compass. Montford introduces us to Cassian Anders, a gubernatorial candidate for Illinois. In my head, Cassian Anders character is a blend of former President Obama and current Maryland Governor Wes Moore. Cassian is smart, community-focused, and described as tall and good-looking. However, he is recently single, and his single status is hindering his progress in the polls. Tangent, this is a horrible double standard, which being single in politics prevents others from obtaining certain political offices. The average person would rather see people in particular offices, married or in committed partnerships. I would rather have the best person in the office. I do not want the one who looks like the best person just because they are married. I digress.
As the story unfolds, readers can see that both characters have a strong sense of justice. They are committed to helping others. Their emotional and sensual connection is immediate, and neither of them holds back from exploring the intimate connection they feel. This is why Jolie and Cassian work, both characters are similar and can see each other for who they are. They are both industrious, smart, righteous individuals, highly educated, but both are selfish in ways that can ruin relationships.
I do have some questions for the author. At the beginning of the story, the author set up a love triangle between Cassian, Jolie, and Cassian’s ex-fiancée. However, that storyline was more of a blip. Jolie and Cassian continued to explore their” fake” relationship. At one point, I thought it was a plot twist. The Jolie Family attempted to ruin her connection with Cassian. They tried to sabotage her life out of jealousy. Now, this subplot was still evident, and I enjoyed the resolution of Jolie’s family subplot. I experienced a range of emotions, including rage and anger. I also felt sadness and disappointment. This happened when Jolie engaged in several conversations with different members of her family about the past trauma. Another question I have is how Cassian’s team missed a crucial detail in Jolie’s past. You must read the book. If you are conducting a background check on a person, alarms would be set off if you cannot find a particular document. Lastly, Jolie’s mother may be on my list of the worst moms for 2025. This is the second book I have read where I want to fight someone’s mother! I do not want to give up too much detail. Her Mama makes Jenifer Lewis’ portrayal of Tina Turner’s mama look kind. Jolie’s mother is her biggest opp!
Overall, I enjoyed the book. I would give it three wine glasses out of five. Again, I read this book, well listened to this novel while driving. Still, when I think of this book, the complexity of Cassian and Jolie’s personality and life, I think you should pair this book with a Brown Estate wine. For my Red wine Lovers, pick up a Brown Estate Chaos Theory; the cherry notes complement the love that develops. At the same time, the notes for baking spices add warmth and bite, bringing spice to the spicy entanglements—just the right amount of punch for the big reveals towards the end of the book. I believe I have suggested Chaos Theory for a different book, but it will pair well with the Cassian and Jolie Story. In addition, the author includes an epilogue to the book, but you will need to visit her website to discover what happened after the campaign here her link https://tiniamontford.com/ along with other books you can partake.
Until Next Time,
Che Michelle
Che-Michelle Tales 
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