Book Review: Overruled by Lana Ferguson
As soon as I stumbled upon Overruled, I felt a magnetic pull—perhaps the irresistible combination of a forbidden romance and the high-stakes world of divorce lawyers. Written by Lana Ferguson, a name that’s quickly become synonymous with engaging narratives and relatable characters, I found myself eager to dive into this tale of legal battles and heartstrings. Little did I know that this story would take me on an emotional rollercoaster filled with wit, charm, and just a sprinkle of unsanitary bathroom antics.
Overruled centers around Dani and Ezra, two talented lawyers locked in a fierce rivalry. Dani, our ambitious heroine, loves helping clients emerge victorious from contentious situations, while Ezra, the self-proclaimed "heartbreak prince" of the courtroom, brings undeniable charm to the table. Their interactions are electric, especially when they find themselves on opposing sides of a case that tests not only their professional ethics but also the undeniable attraction simmering between them. This forbidden romance had me drooling—not just over the court drama, but over the steamy chemistry that kept me turning pages.
What struck me most about the book was how it beautifully captured the tension of attraction paired with professional ambition. Dani’s fierce dedication to her career and her discomfort with Ezra’s cocky demeanor made for excellent conflict. Initially, I found their chemistry a tad cliché; there’s a smidge of Insta-love simmering in the air, which might irk some readers. However, Ferguson’s writing style shone through as I watched Dani and Ezra’s relationship evolve during the turbulence of their case—not just through a haze of passionate encounters but through real moments of vulnerability and connection.
The dual POV was a delightful touch, allowing me to dip into both Dani’s steely resolve and Ezra’s yearning heart. Even though their romance felt a bit forced at times, especially with the sudden leaps from adversaries to lovers, I appreciate how Ferguson crafted their contrasts—Dani’s ice queen vibes against Ezra’s sunny demeanor made for an addictive dynamic. And speaking of dynamics, the courtroom scenes were a personal highlight, with sharp dialogues and strategic moves that brought an exhilarating pulse to the narrative.
Yet, as entertaining as it was, some character choices left me scratching my head. The unexpected bathroom scene had me gasping (and not just from shock)—I mean, who thinks of doing that in their parents’ bathroom? Talk about questionable life choices! While it added a cheeky spice to the book, it also had me pondering hygiene in unexpected places, which perhaps detracted from the sizzling moments that came before.
Overall, Overruled will definitely find its enthusiastic audience among readers who love their romances packed with steam, charm, and a side of professional rivalry. If you enjoy stories filled with quick wit, sizzling chemistry, and a touch of family complexity, this book might just be your next guilty pleasure.
As I closed the final chapter, I felt as though I’d lived through a whirlwind of emotions—not only through the trials of Dani and Ezra but also through Ferguson’s expert storytelling. Although it might not entirely resonate with everyone, I’d recommend this book to anyone ready to indulge in some courtroom drama and steamy banter. So, mark your calendars for July 1, 2025, because you won’t want to miss this delightful read! Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC—my honest thoughts are all my own!