I absolutely loved this book. I am a hopeless romantic and this book hits all the right spots, it’s beautifully written and the characters have substaI absolutely loved this book. I am a hopeless romantic and this book hits all the right spots, it’s beautifully written and the characters have substance, they are both engaging, relatable and well-developed with a ton of chemistry between them. I love friends to lovers, brother's best friend and childhood crushes turned adult affairs stories, and this one has it all.
Ashley and Julian have known one another since they were kids, Julian being Ashley’s famous brother’s best friend and her lifelong crush. She needs to know if the attraction is mutual. And she is ready to each and every machination to get him to the point where he’s incapable of hiding his true feelings for her.
Ashley needs a place to stay, and Julian needs to ward off unwanted attention from a family friend. They strike a deal to spend some time together, living under the same roof, and to pretend they are dating.
Julian’s priority is Ashley’s brother’s actor career. He is his agent and has set strict boundaries between his role of agent and their friendship. He is determined, but had this vulnerable side to him too that made him pretty perfect. Ashley was adorably sweet and funny. Yet she had low self-esteem and that affected her daily life and ability to follow her dreams.
This is in essence an attraction of opposites, they should be all wrong for each other and yet they are quite perfect together. They made a wonderful couple and watching their relationship deepen made for a very romantic read. Their journey was filled with laughter, tenderness, joy, hope, chemistry and love. Not to mention dealing with Ashley’s overprotective brother. I loved when Julian took ownership of his feelings for Ashley and wasn't going to settle for anything less than true love from her.
This book was a cute, fresh and feel good read, with a perfect balance between humor, emotions and chemistry. There was no unnecessary drama and lots of fantastic supporting characters. I loved Ashley, I loved Julian and their romance was completely satisfying.
This book is the second installment in the Love on Cue series, but can be read as a standalone....more
A sweet and funny enemies to lovers story! Paola Dangelico always manages to make every story unique and immensely entertaining. The great thing aboutA sweet and funny enemies to lovers story! Paola Dangelico always manages to make every story unique and immensely entertaining. The great thing about this book is that it grabs you from the moment you start reading and the story flows very naturally. You really get involved with the characters as their story unfolds, and we follow Amber and Ethan in a delighting adventure of friendship and love.
Amber Jones is an aspiring actress who has sworn off relationships and is focusing on her desire for a career on the big screen. When she is conned by her ex’s family, falsely accused, arrested and charged with arson, she avoids jail time thanks to Ethan Vaughn’s assistance and hospitality. Ethan is an attorney, managing the career of top athletes, and Amber’s fancy knight in shining armor.
Frankly, I fell head over heels for these two irresistibly flawed characters. Amber’s cheeky and devil-may-care personality was in total contrast to Ethan’s “Mr. Perfect” character. And when Bad Amber takes over, their battle of wits was total bliss.
Despite her blasé attitude, Amber is anything but self-assured and she has absolutely no filter! She is unfair at times but Ethan handles her teasing well. He usually relies on his charm and intelligence to negotiate his way out of a problem, but with Amber he definitely had his work cut out for him. I loved that he remained stoic most of the times! Ethan is a wonderful hero. He’s sexy as sin, caring, sweet and protective. His relationship with Amber is complicated, but they have a natural connection that can’t be denied. I loved their interactions, the flirtation and the realistic way their unlikely friendship progressed. Amber is swept away by Ethan’s tenderness, but she is scared of getting hurt.
Amber and Ethan are intriguing to watch as they dance around their feelings. They both have their faults and shortcomings. I loved how the author develops their relationship and its evolution from enemies to lovers. Despite the completely satisfying and altogether perfect ending, I wouldn’t hate to see these two again, in the next installment in the series! ARC kindly provided by the author, via NetGalley. For more reviews, follow me on my blog!
Merged review:
A sweet and funny enemies to lovers story! Paola Dangelico always manages to make every story unique and immensely entertaining. The great thing about this book is that it grabs you from the moment you start reading and the story flows very naturally. You really get involved with the characters as their story unfolds, and we follow Amber and Ethan in a delighting adventure of friendship and love.
Amber Jones is an aspiring actress who has sworn off relationships and is focusing on her desire for a career on the big screen. When she is conned by her ex’s family, falsely accused, arrested and charged with arson, she avoids jail time thanks to Ethan Vaughn’s assistance and hospitality. Ethan is an attorney, managing the career of top athletes, and Amber’s fancy knight in shining armor.
Frankly, I fell head over heels for these two irresistibly flawed characters. Amber’s cheeky and devil-may-care personality was in total contrast to Ethan’s “Mr. Perfect” character. And when Bad Amber takes over, their battle of wits was total bliss.
Despite her blasé attitude, Amber is anything but self-assured and she has absolutely no filter! She is unfair at times but Ethan handles her teasing well. He usually relies on his charm and intelligence to negotiate his way out of a problem, but with Amber he definitely had his work cut out for him. I loved that he remained stoic most of the times! Ethan is a wonderful hero. He’s sexy as sin, caring, sweet and protective. His relationship with Amber is complicated, but they have a natural connection that can’t be denied. I loved their interactions, the flirtation and the realistic way their unlikely friendship progressed. Amber is swept away by Ethan’s tenderness, but she is scared of getting hurt.
Amber and Ethan are intriguing to watch as they dance around their feelings. They both have their faults and shortcomings. I loved how the author develops their relationship and its evolution from enemies to lovers. Despite the completely satisfying and altogether perfect ending, I wouldn’t hate to see these two again, in the next installment in the series! ARC kindly provided by the author, via NetGalley. For more reviews, follow me on my blog!...more
"My need to protect this woman isn't duty. It's instinct"
Reading The Protector felt very much like watching an action film, breathtaking, thrilling an"My need to protect this woman isn't duty. It's instinct"
Reading The Protector felt very much like watching an action film, breathtaking, thrilling and pacy. In the role of the bodyguard, Jodi Ellen Malpas has created the perfect alpha hero, alluring, tortured and so sexy!
Jack Sharp is a former military sniper, a veteran from the war in Afghanistan. He is now a top bodyguard protecting the rich and famous. He is hired by business tycoon Trevor Logan to shadow his daughter Camille, whose life is threatened. Logan is ruthless and has many enemies, potentially looking for revenge. Protecting Camille should be business as usual for Jack, except that she is not the shallow, spoiled socialite he expected her to be. She is headstrong and is neither compliant nor cooperative, constantly trying to give him the slip. She is definitely a master at the cat and mouse game!
The attraction between them is instant but Jake can’t let their intense chemistry distract him from his duty. He is haunted by flashbacks of the war and tortured by his past. His job is his lifeline and, as the story unfolded, protecting Camille has become his life mission. The enemies are lurking in the shadows and he can’t let his guard down.
[image]
Jack and Camille’s romance was incredibly sexy and simmering with deep feelings. Camille is tired of the image the media have created of her but Jack immediately sees her true self, generous, warm and genuine. Though they both fight their attraction, their emotional connection can’t be denied, they fall head over heels for one another. For the first time, Jake feels the need to face his demons, to protect Camille from his darker side. She is his game changer and his hope for a brighter future.
This book was highly entertaining and kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. The plot was well developed, with a gripping storyline, panty-melting sexy times and engaging characters. The author’s writing is evocative, I was fully immersed in this story. I was a bit disappointed by the ending, though, it felt somewhat rushed. But overall, this book was a great ride, angsty, addictive and enticing. Unlike the author’s previous books, The Protector is a standalone and is told in dual POV.
I have to give a special mention to the gorgeous cover, a beautiful rendition of a pivotal scene in the book.
An advanced copy of this book was provided by the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
"My need to protect this woman isn't duty. It's instinct"
Reading The Protector felt very much like watching an action film, breathtaking, thrilling and pacy. In the role of the bodyguard, Jodi Ellen Malpas has created the perfect alpha hero, alluring, tortured and so sexy!
Jack Sharp is a former military sniper, a veteran from the war in Afghanistan. He is now a top bodyguard protecting the rich and famous. He is hired by business tycoon Trevor Logan to shadow his daughter Camille, whose life is threatened. Logan is ruthless and has many enemies, potentially looking for revenge. Protecting Camille should be business as usual for Jack, except that she is not the shallow, spoiled socialite he expected her to be. She is headstrong and is neither compliant nor cooperative, constantly trying to give him the slip. She is definitely a master at the cat and mouse game!
The attraction between them is instant but Jake can’t let their intense chemistry distract him from his duty. He is haunted by flashbacks of the war and tortured by his past. His job is his lifeline and, as the story unfolded, protecting Camille has become his life mission. The enemies are lurking in the shadows and he can’t let his guard down.
[image]
Jack and Camille’s romance was incredibly sexy and simmering with deep feelings. Camille is tired of the image the media have created of her but Jack immediately sees her true self, generous, warm and genuine. Though they both fight their attraction, their emotional connection can’t be denied, they fall head over heels for one another. For the first time, Jake feels the need to face his demons, to protect Camille from his darker side. She is his game changer and his hope for a brighter future.
This book was highly entertaining and kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. The plot was well developed, with a gripping storyline, panty-melting sexy times and engaging characters. The author’s writing is evocative, I was fully immersed in this story. I was a bit disappointed by the ending, though, it felt somewhat rushed. But overall, this book was a great ride, angsty, addictive and enticing. Unlike the author’s previous books, The Protector is a standalone and is told in dual POV.
I have to give a special mention to the gorgeous cover, a beautiful rendition of a pivotal scene in the book.
An advanced copy of this book was provided by the publisher, in exchange for an honest review....more
The hero is a Viscount with little to recommend him as a character, he is a man known for causing trouble and his behavior is questionable. H3.5 Stars
The hero is a Viscount with little to recommend him as a character, he is a man known for causing trouble and his behavior is questionable. He was so mysterious, he confused me. And I never really got a sense of who he was or what really motivated him, his behavior was perplexing.
Eliza Cartwick has lost her husband, father and brother in a carriage accident. She is dedicated to the idea of ensuring her daughter’s security and happiness and has accepted that marriage is her only option in the long term. The notion of love is a luxury, but she hopes she’ll grow to love her future husband back eventually.
Thomas, Viscount Evanston, cares about Eliza in his own selfish, jaded way, but he is largely clueless about the true nature of his feelings. And yet, this notorious rake is willing to put aside his London pursuits to scare off Eliza’s suitors. Eliza is attracted to him, but she doesn’t trust him. Despite being old friends, their relationship is strained. Her feelings are unsettling and confusing, but Eliza can’t allow them to cloud her judgement. Her family does not approve of him, her own feelings are uncertain.
The story was an enjoyable one of a growing relationship that in the end deserved a happy ending. But both characters went about it all wrong. I enjoy Marie Tremayne’s writing style, but the way she depicted the unconscious changes in thought and character of her heroes was confusing at times.
Merged review:
3.5 Stars
The hero is a Viscount with little to recommend him as a character, he is a man known for causing trouble and his behavior is questionable. He was so mysterious, he confused me. And I never really got a sense of who he was or what really motivated him, his behavior was perplexing.
Eliza Cartwick has lost her husband, father and brother in a carriage accident. She is dedicated to the idea of ensuring her daughter’s security and happiness and has accepted that marriage is her only option in the long term. The notion of love is a luxury, but she hopes she’ll grow to love her future husband back eventually.
Thomas, Viscount Evanston, cares about Eliza in his own selfish, jaded way, but he is largely clueless about the true nature of his feelings. And yet, this notorious rake is willing to put aside his London pursuits to scare off Eliza’s suitors. Eliza is attracted to him, but she doesn’t trust him. Despite being old friends, their relationship is strained. Her feelings are unsettling and confusing, but Eliza can’t allow them to cloud her judgement. Her family does not approve of him, her own feelings are uncertain.
The story was an enjoyable one of a growing relationship that in the end deserved a happy ending. But both characters went about it all wrong. I enjoy Marie Tremayne’s writing style, but the way she depicted the unconscious changes in thought and character of her heroes was confusing at times....more
If you're looking for a slow-burn, angst-filled romance with addictive tension, this first book in the Tangled Hearts series is for you.
The h4.5 Stars
If you're looking for a slow-burn, angst-filled romance with addictive tension, this first book in the Tangled Hearts series is for you.
The hero, Holden Knight, a ruthless venture capitalist on the verge of becoming the majority owner of the heroine’s family business, is the epitome of arrogance and cold calculation. At first, his hard exterior and relentless drive to win at any cost make him seem almost villainous. But as the layers of his character are peeled back, revealing deep-seated wounds and complex motivations, I found myself rooting for him. He’s not just the typical cold-hearted businessman; he’s a man driven by past pain, and it’s this complexity that makes him so compelling.
On the other side, the heroine, Rowan Rothschild, is a force to be reckoned with. Sassy, defiant, and fiercely loyal to her family legacy, she refuses to let anyone dictate her fate—least of all those who threaten everything she holds dear. Her determination and refusal to back down, even as the walls close in on her, make her a protagonist you can’t help but admire. Despite feeling betrayed by those closest to her, she never lets that break her spirit.
The tension between Holden and Rowan is palpable, and their dynamic is electric. The banter and verbal sparring are some of the highlights of the story—every conversation is laced with sharp wit, underlying attraction, and a battle for control. Their relationship unfolds in a deliciously slow burn and an undeniable pull that neither can ignore. Despite being on opposing sides of the corporate war, the chemistry between them simmers with an intensity that had me eagerly turning the pages.
What I loved most about this story was the psychological cat-and-mouse game between the two leads. Rowan’s struggle to figure out Holden’s true intentions, while he masterfully manipulates the situation to his advantage, creates a constant sense of tension and suspense. Holden is chaos incarnate—just when you think you’ve got him figured out, he throws another wrench into the mix.
The slow build of attraction, mixed with high-stakes tension and emotional depth, makes for a story that’s as satisfying as it is intense. I loved how this book made me feel, waiting for things to happen. To be honest, I did not see the cliffhanger coming, because, yes, it is the first book in a series. Now I can't wait for the conclusion to this addictive story!
My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book....more
Lady in Waiting is the first installment in Marie Tremayne’s debut series “Reluctant Brides”. It was a delightful and sweet read with well-deve4 Stars
Lady in Waiting is the first installment in Marie Tremayne’s debut series “Reluctant Brides”. It was a delightful and sweet read with well-developed characters that make the book.
William, Lord Ashworth, has suffered a terrible loss that has changed the course of his life. Traumatized and injured, he has shut himself away in his country estate, Lawton Park.
Clara Mayfield is heiress to a banking fortune, but her family is snubbed by the ton and her parents intend to force her into a loveless arranged marriage. Her fiancé is abusive and Clara decides to run away. She seeks safety by hiding as a servant. She is hired as housemaid at Lawton Park under a false identity.
I loved Clara, she has a very resilient spirit, she is pragmatic, industrious and willing to work hard, winning the affection of everyone at the estate. And yet, William and Clara’s relationship starts out antagonistic, William seems to take an instant dislike to her, he is suspicious. Yet, as they get to know each other, he can’t help but trust and admire her. I loved that their romance was a slow burn and their relationship grew from chapter to chapter.
It took me a while to warm to William. At first, he came across as stiff and a stickler for rules and upstairs/downstairs etiquette. His vulnerability is unsettling his mind, but he can’t deny the intense emotions he feels for Clara. For her sake, he is willing to break with tradition and social boundaries. She is able to reach the man underneath the polished aristocrat and their chemistry was palpable.
Marie Tremayne has woven a story that incorporates a realistic character growth that totally won me over. Her characters were beautifully drawn. I loved that they didn’t act hastily on their attraction to each other. There were many ups and downs between them, they both had their own trials to deal with. This character-driven historical romance was an enjoyable read and I’ll definitely follow this author in the future.
ARC generously provided by the publisher.
Merged review:
4 Stars
Lady in Waiting is the first installment in Marie Tremayne’s debut series “Reluctant Brides”. It was a delightful and sweet read with well-developed characters that make the book.
William, Lord Ashworth, has suffered a terrible loss that has changed the course of his life. Traumatized and injured, he has shut himself away in his country estate, Lawton Park.
Clara Mayfield is heiress to a banking fortune, but her family is snubbed by the ton and her parents intend to force her into a loveless arranged marriage. Her fiancé is abusive and Clara decides to run away. She seeks safety by hiding as a servant. She is hired as housemaid at Lawton Park under a false identity.
I loved Clara, she has a very resilient spirit, she is pragmatic, industrious and willing to work hard, winning the affection of everyone at the estate. And yet, William and Clara’s relationship starts out antagonistic, William seems to take an instant dislike to her, he is suspicious. Yet, as they get to know each other, he can’t help but trust and admire her. I loved that their romance was a slow burn and their relationship grew from chapter to chapter.
It took me a while to warm to William. At first, he came across as stiff and a stickler for rules and upstairs/downstairs etiquette. His vulnerability is unsettling his mind, but he can’t deny the intense emotions he feels for Clara. For her sake, he is willing to break with tradition and social boundaries. She is able to reach the man underneath the polished aristocrat and their chemistry was palpable.
Marie Tremayne has woven a story that incorporates a realistic character growth that totally won me over. Her characters were beautifully drawn. I loved that they didn’t act hastily on their attraction to each other. There were many ups and downs between them, they both had their own trials to deal with. This character-driven historical romance was an enjoyable read and I’ll definitely follow this author in the future.
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