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Wedded Bliss #1

Dearly Beloved

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Jacob Chambers has two redeeming qualities: he’s breathtakingly sexy, and he’s sensationally rich.

Neither one makes up for the fact that he’s a monster.

As penance for his past, he’ll be the young, beautiful Catherine Bettencourt’s fake fiancé until she can access her trust fund and leave him behind.

She doesn’t need to know how he punishes himself for his shortcomings. He’ll never tell her how he suffers in silence.

Catherine Bettencourt doesn’t want a wedding, thank you very much. Becoming a rich man’s wife can be a deadly affair.

But when scandal threatens the only man who has ever protected her, the choice is clear.

She’ll walk down the aisle with him. She’ll take him as her husband, for richer or for poorer. In sickness and in health.

She’ll never fall in love with Jacob Chambers. Til death do them part.

304 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 30, 2023

65 people are currently reading
410 people want to read

About the author

Amelia Wilde

162 books3,533 followers
Amelia Wilde is a USA TODAY and Amazon Top 100 bestselling author of steamy contemporary romance and loves it a little too much. She lives in Michigan with her husband and daughters. She spends most of her time typing furiously on an iPad and appreciating the natural splendor of her home state from where she likes it best: inside.

Amelia does not negotiate with targeted harassment campaigns, but she appreciates the valuable time spent thinking about her books.

Subscribe to Amelia’s private mailing list for updates, giveaways, and regular chats by heading to readerlinks.com/l/525541.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
Profile Image for Kursed Reads.
803 reviews9,374 followers
January 6, 2024
A modern-day arranged marriage with a twist, Jacob Chambers offers to marry the sheltered 19-year-old Catherine Bettencourt in order to get her out of her abusive father’s home.

Despite themselves, each has begun developing feelings that go beyond transactional. Afraid of Jacob not reciprocating, Catherine remains quiet about the shift. Meanwhile, drowning in emotional baggage, Jacob won’t allow himself to confess his feelings.

When Catherine’s safety is at stake, they’re forced to change the terms of their agreement. But the nuptials are just the start.

Wow! This was not a particularly action-packed read, but it was suspenseful and emotional and, at times, almost felt like a psychological thriller. Watching Jacob spiral was intense. Likewise, seeing their relationship grow, particularly in the moments spent with Charlotte, when she was unaware of the soothing effect she provided, were exquisite. Despite knowing what lay ahead, the ending still had me on the edge of my seat. I’ll be not-so-patiently waiting for Dearly Departed to drop!

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥1/2
Darkness: 🤍
Heat: 🌶️🌶️
Range of Emotions: 😑😳🥵🥺😲
Ending: 🧗🏻‍♀️ {Cliffy}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual}

🗄️ Genre: Contemporary Romance
🗂️ Subgenre(s): Suspense

✨ Tropes: Age Gap, Billionaire/Rich AF, Fake Relationship, Family Saga, Marriage of Convenience
💫 Microtropes: Faked Death, Virgin FMC

💋 Kinks: 🍑, Pegging, Squirting

⚠️ Warning: This sweet and steamy read will leave you wanton.

🚩 Safety Squad: There are potentially triggering elements. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is best!!

📣 Type: Dearly Beloved is the first book in the Wedded Bliss duet and ends on a cliffhanger. This series must be read in order.

🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
571 reviews
December 31, 2023
CLIFFHANGER.
CLIFFHANGER.
CLIFFHANGER.

some readers like going in blind with no warning that this is some sort of duet or trilogy…I’m not one of them.

Profile Image for Diana~ (Kiss Me Books).
453 reviews166 followers
January 17, 2024
Amelia Wilde returns to world of the Wealth and Power series, which featured both Mason Hill and Gabriel Hill as its main protagonists. Dearly Beloved focuses on Jacob Chambers and Catherine Bettencourt, who were previously side characters in Gabriel and Elise's story, and I was delightfully surprised by their story so far. There was more to them than meets the eye. What started out as a revenge story in the beginning has turned into a happy ending for the Hills family but some are still haunted by the evil deeds of their father. Despite his charming outward appearance, Jacob is a broken and tortured man who feels guilt-ridden over the lives that his father has destroyed. One could could argue, however, that he had already paid for the sins of his father. In any case, I found his relationship with Catherine to be unique because in addition to saving her from her father, Jacob also protected Catherine by entering an arranged marriage with her. As they spend more time together, both begin to develop feelings for each other but there seems to be outside forces who want to destroy their happiness before its begun.

"I'll never stop thinking of her. It will probably always hurt to breathe, thinking of her.


In the end, I really enjoyed Jacob and Catherine's story because there was angst, romance, and sweet moments with characters from previous books. I absolutely can't wait for Dearly Departed because this book ends in a shocking cliffhanger. I do wish that Amelia Wilde could have provided readers with a synopsis of the story so far and/or index of her characters because I had a difficult time remembering what happened due to not having read some of her previous books. Fans of Amelia Wilde will not be disappointed by this angsty and spicy story because I was really surprised by the sexy scenes. I should have known since Jacob and Gabriel used to be in a relationship but I commend the author and Catherine for taking a chance on this kink. Jacob is a sweet but broken man but he perfectly complements Catherine who is kind, open-minded, and wants to explore her sexuality with him.

*This ARC was generously provided by the author for an honest review*

Profile Image for INeedABookBreak.
1,253 reviews39 followers
January 2, 2024
4.5/5
I will never get enough of this author’s broody antiheroes! I loved this book! It was full of spice, angst, and suspense!

Everyone believes that Catherine and Jacob are in love, but their engagement is actually a relationship of convenience. Jacob agreed to protect and care for Cat until she can access her trust fund. Then, they can go their separate ways.

Jacob is overridden with anxiety, guilt, and shame. He is haunted by all the people his family hurt and spends all his time trying to repent. He refuses to let anyone help him and he’s spiraling. His time with Cat is his only reprieve, but he feels too unworthy to allow himself to truly let go. Someone is now threatening Cat, which is causing Jacob to truly become unhinged.

I love how this book felt like a psychological thriller at times. I felt like I could feel Jacob’s spiral. Speaking of things that I could feel, the spice was absolutely spicing in this book. It was so hot! In a sexy show of trust and control, Jacob even lets Cat p3g him before taking her v1rg1n1ty.

If you read this author's Power trilogy (which you totally should), you are familiar with Jacob as Gabriel’s ex and Cat was Elise’s sister. I always love how this author integrates appearances from her other characters. In those book, we spend time with the Hill family as well as Hades and his brothers.

Of course it ends in a life destroying cliffhanger! What a plot twist! I am not ok, and I almost threw my kindle! I seriously need the second half immediately! I am so worried for Jacob and Catherine!!! Why???????
Profile Image for Heidi.
374 reviews
January 1, 2024
I received an ARC for an honest review.

I love this world that Amelia has created. I love always getting glimpses of her other characters and how they have all come together and made one giant family. And the spicy scenes with Jacob and Catherine are definite fire. And of course, in typical fashion, that Cliffhanger..... And Catherine exploring her likes and dislikes was wonderful to see. Also, how Jacob has brought her out of her shell. I am in love with this couple and can't wait to see what happens next!
Profile Image for Joy  Avery.
1,311 reviews160 followers
January 14, 2024
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆ Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶

Angst: 💔💔💔💔

Cliffhanger? ✔️

Tropes: Contemporary Romance, romantic suspense, age gap, tragic pasts, billionaire, marriage of convenience, fake relationship, family saga

Jacob Chambers has two redeeming qualities: he’s breathtakingly sexy, and he’s sensationally rich. Neither one makes up for the fact that he’s a monster. As penance for his past, he’ll be the young, beautiful Catherine Bettencourt’s fake fiancé until she can access her trust fund and leave him behind. She doesn’t need to know how he punishes himself for his shortcomings. He’ll never tell her how he suffers in silence. Catherine Bettencourt doesn’t want a wedding, thank you very much. Becoming a rich man’s wife can be a deadly affair. But when scandal threatens the only man who has ever protected her, the choice is clear. She’ll walk down the aisle with him. She’ll take him as her husband, for richer or for poorer. In sickness and in health. She’ll never fall in love with Jacob Chambers. Til death do them part.

Amelia Wilde never ceases to write books that completely enrapture me from start to cliffhanger finish. There were so many qualities about Jacob and Catherine that I easily related to as well as loved. Both of them haven't had it easy, which made it easy to have me rooting for them to make it. After that heartbreaking cliffhanger, I am dying to get my hands on the next book. The suspense kept me on the edge of my seat while the emotional rollercoaster effect kept tears in my eyes. As with every book I've read by this author, I highly recommend this read. This is my honest opinion, freely given.
748 reviews2 followers
January 13, 2024
It’s Jacob and Catherine’s turn.

Jacob and Catherine are supposed to be “fake engaged.” Just until she can claim her inheritance. But the two of them have developed feelings for each other. Add to that, someone is trying to kill them. Who could it be?
Profile Image for Deb Richmond.
700 reviews4 followers
December 31, 2023
For all the world to see, Jacob Chambers and Catherine Bettencourt are in love and engaged. She’s got the rock to show it. In reality, though, they’re never getting married and will never be in love. It’s their own plan. They will break off their engagement when Catherine turns 22 and is able to care for herself. Until then, Jacob is happy to take care of her. When threats to Catherine begin, Jacob has no choice. He concocts a plan to ensure that Catherine is taken care of for the rest of her life. But will he and Catherine be able to save themselves in the end?

Man, this is a good book. I love a story with angst, and Dearly Departed has it in spades. The two main characters are strongly written - Jacob experiencing a possible nervous breakdown while Catherine tries to decide whom she’s going to be as a person. They are a great duo. They promised never to fall in love, but they’re both having trouble keeping that vow. I love that the Hill family is brought into the story as we continue to see how the effects of the evil consortium impact the lives of others. I love an Amelia Wilde cliffhanger - they are the best, and this one is shocking and thrilling. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.

I highly recommend Dearly Beloved which can be read as a standalone. Read it and let me know what you think - I’d love to discuss!
Profile Image for Jill.
529 reviews12 followers
January 10, 2024
Oh Jacob! 😭💔 The way he beats himself up and the guilt he carries for his father's sins are gut-wrenching! I just hope, HOPE Catherine can show him he's worthy of her love.

What an emotionally charged, surprising story! 😮
Profile Image for Marie Meow Meow.
676 reviews4 followers
January 3, 2024
I fell in love with Jacob while reading Gabriel's books. He's even more delightful and charming in his own book Dearly Beloved.
His relationship with Catherine is a bit odd. It's fake, yet not. They do some sexual things, but not others. He wants more, she wants more, but they do the dumb thing that every book couple seems to do...refuse to communicate because they would feel silly if the other one thought differently. But that's the main problem in every book I read, it seems. Just talk to each other. I guess there wouldn't be a book then.
There is so much mystery and suspense in this book though! I totally wasn't expecting it. And yeah, there's a cliffhanger. Boo hoo. She releases books really quickly so it's not like George RR Martin where you're waiting 13 years for the next book.
I'm eagerly anticipating the next release and can't wait to see what happens!!
Profile Image for Court.
901 reviews48 followers
December 31, 2023
I devoured this book and cannot wait for the next one to find out what happens. Jacob and Catherine will pull you in from the start. These two have agreed to a fake engagement that will help each other out and have set boundaries for their fake relationship. However, the more time they spend together the harder it becomes to ignore feelings that are starting to grow and the chemistry that is obviously there between the two. Jacob and Catherine have fathers that are connected to a group of people that hurt people and now Jacob is punishing himself for their crimes. Though when threats are made against Catherine and him, it becomes clear someone is after one of them or both, but who? These two decide a wedding will protect her and give Jacob the cover he needs, but will everything according to plan? Dearly Beloved is filled with drama, secrets, suspense, and steamy moments that will have you on the edge of your seat wanting to know what happens next. Then add in the fake engagement and age-gap and you will be wanting more
Profile Image for Dimaris rossy.
1,229 reviews17 followers
January 4, 2024
For some reason I find it very fitting that a story involving these 2 is THAT dramatic, even after the consortium is taken care of. I like that element of uncertainty the book has. There is danger lurking near by. It made the story intriguing. And on top of that, it gives you more issues for these characters to deal with. Jacob needs an exceptional psychologist. The guilt is eating him alive and he needs to stop the self punishment. Catherine needs to have more confidence in herself. So you'll encounter lots of guilt, insecurities and paranoia. To the point of it being concerning. But they will both be force soon enough to have better communication and let go of old hang-ups. And I'm looking forward to that part. That, mixed in with the danger, has me giddy.
Profile Image for Cristina G.
672 reviews14 followers
January 5, 2024
Wow…Jacob and Catherine are unbelievable! Jacob is sooo amazing and so utterly broken. His ability to just give to Catherine without wanting anything in return is unmatched. There were moments of reading this that I just wanted to shake him and say come on! Luckily, Catherine is not some meek heroine and basically does just that! Oh and THAT scene towards the end… phew!!! Can we say kink unlocked?! Lord almighty! She gave it to him and got what she needed too! The ending was amazing too! I can’t wait to see what happens next!
Profile Image for Katrina.
887 reviews16 followers
January 6, 2024
Dearly Beloved is Jacob and Catherine’s story. It’s great to get inside their heads from the dual POV’s and learn more about them.
Catherine has been living with Jacob for a year and are in a fake engagement until she can inherit her money. They develop feelings for one another though but that makes it difficult when ghosts and demons from the past threaten them.
I’m looking forward to reading the next book.
dearly Beloved is well written and a great addition to the series.
Profile Image for Michelle.
10.7k reviews28 followers
January 7, 2024
If you have ever read one of Amelia Wilde's books then you know you are in for a treat. Jacob and Catherine's story is an intense one with unexpected twists and it takes the reader on a roller coaster ride of emotions. From the intense drama and angst to the cliffhanger ending this is a great read and I can't wait to read the next book to find out how Jacob and Catherine's story ends.
Profile Image for Tiffany.
636 reviews
January 9, 2024
What could go wrong with a fake engagement? You will fall in love with these characters and their storyline. Know that this is a duet and it does end on a cliffhanger!
Profile Image for Jo.
143 reviews1 follower
January 2, 2024
Is he completely mental? Is this a midlife crisis or is he just human who's been through crisis after crisis and smiled through it to much?

She is the sunshine and warmth he craves and needs. But he pushes her away fearing for her safety but can't stay away because he needs that warmth and touch. Is she strong enough to over come her past to save their future?

This book reads much like a thriller. You dont know who the bad guy actually is. Is Jacob chambers going to crack up and hurt everyone he loves or is Catharine going to save their future but defeating their past?

I didn't want this book to end. I wanted more so much more. But that's what Amelia Wilde does best she keeps bringing me back everytime.
Profile Image for Cheyenne.
166 reviews45 followers
January 7, 2024
I enjoyed Jacob and Catherine’s story Dearly Beloved! This is an intense story full of emotion and suspense that will have you hooked. There’s so many twists that will keep you reading! I would highly recommend this book!
Profile Image for Jessica.
176 reviews6 followers
December 31, 2023
My heart aches. It feels like it’s been ripped from my chest. Being an avid reader of Amelia’s for years, I should know better than to prepare myself for the heartbreak she’s going to lead me too. If you’ve read any of the other Hill siblings books, especially Gabriel’s, you’ve wondered about Jacob Chambers and his story. I knew it would be tragic because his father was also involved in the consortium, but I forgot to factor in the FC. Catherine was portrayed as the meek sister of Elise, but it’s only because she’s young and has not yet discovered who she is. As she starts to peel back the layers of who she is, danger surrounds her and Jacob in London where they’ve fled to seeking solace. Unfortunately, it isn’t as safe as Jacob wants and they return to New York where they’ll have to face their fears and feelings. I cannot wait for their conclusion. I need it yesterday.
Profile Image for Ashley Herndon.
1,257 reviews19 followers
January 9, 2024
Oh my heart LOVES Jacob and Catherine so flipping much!

Amelia Wilde is THE best at tortured hero stuff.

What to do when you fall in love with your fake fiancé?
What to do when you think you aren’t worthy to that love?

I

Loved

This

Hard!

I highly recommend this and cannot wait for the conclusion !
Profile Image for Angela.
3,547 reviews16 followers
January 6, 2024
I can see why guilt and self doubt lead to trouble. Both Catherine and Jacob have secrets that are waiting to be revealed and the pain of discovery seems overwhelming. Trust is in short supply as they struggle to work out their feelings.
2,095 reviews31 followers
January 1, 2024
Is it fake or is it real? Jacob is consumed with sellf loathing, blames himself for what his father and the consortium did to the Hill family. He feels he doesn’t deserve a sweet, loving woman like Catherine. They made an agreement, no intimacy, but agreements are made to be broken, feelings are coming into the mix and all Jacob wants is to keep her safe from what he thinks is coming and she’s better off without him they all are. When an attempt to leave Catherine behind, she surprises him and now they are both in danger. Freaking awesome read, loved it.
1,684 reviews12 followers
December 31, 2023
I love Catherine and Jacob! The relationship started off as a fake engagement to save Catherine from her horrible father until she could access her trust at 21. They accidentally fall for one another despite their strict rules and of course won’t admit their feelings to one another.
She has no idea what she wants to do with her life and he’s constantly trying to make amends to those his father wronged, but nothing helps sooth the evil he feels lives inside him.
Jacob was just so angsty and Catherine just wants to have any kind of life that makes her feel safe.
This ends in quite the cliffhanger and I cannot wait to see what the author has in store for us in the next book!
Profile Image for Brigid Brown.
957 reviews23 followers
December 31, 2023
Whoa!! So freaking good!!!

Whoa!!! I just finished Dearly Beloved, and I'm left wondering what I'm supposed to do with my life right now. Like major book hangover!!

I knew I would love Jacob and Catherine's story before I even started it. What wouldn't I love about a slightly broken Jacob doing everything he can to protect Catherine, who has been through hell and back at the hands of her father. Their story is everything!!! It's humorous, steamy with a twist of oh crap how is this going to end! Through it all, you can see their love shining through.
Profile Image for Terra Drynan-Werder.
1,070 reviews
December 31, 2023
I have been waiting for this book and Jacob Chamber and Catherine Bettencourt and it certainly did not disappoint. It is full of suspense and a twist I did not see coming. I read this one in just a few hours and was invested from the first page. I loved seeing some favourite old faces from previous series and to see where characters are from where their stories left them. I cannot wait for the next book in this series. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book for my honest review.
2,700 reviews25 followers
January 2, 2024
4*
Lydia's father is determined she's to marry Jacob Chambers, unfortunately he thinks she's to young and is against the union.
Jacob was set on Lydia having the choice of who to marry. When he discovers what shes going through he steps in to help.
What a great story I'm desperate for the conclusion in Dearly Departed.
Profile Image for Melissa Ledet.
2,144 reviews13 followers
January 3, 2024
This one took me a bit to get into, but when I did I could not put it down. Jacob and Catherine’s story takes you on a whirlwind and end in a cliffhanger. Can’t wait to read what happens next in Dearly Departed.
Profile Image for it.sgottabethebooks.
1,873 reviews88 followers
January 4, 2024
I have been waiting for this book for quite some time and the wait was definitely worth it. Jacob’s story was everything I hoped for and more. I look forward to the final book.
Profile Image for Kristy Odom.
1,549 reviews40 followers
January 1, 2024
Wow!!! I loved this one! It was heartbreaking reading Jacob’s thoughts about himself. He was trying so hard to make up for his father’s wrongs. Catherine is falling in love with him, and trying so hard to figure out what she wants to do. The cliffhanger was shocking. I didn’t see that coming. I can’t wait to see where we go from here.
Profile Image for Karin Gesell.
1,888 reviews41 followers
January 1, 2024
Wow, Jacob Chambers, though hot and lovely, has some issues. He’s taken on the world’s problems it seems, all on the down-low. Totally heart breaking. Catherine has no clue, and then their happy bubble starts to deflate. So much sadness and happiness going on, and by the end I’m reading as fast as I can and gasping, while setting an alarm for when the next book comes out. Is it June yet???
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