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Resist
From USA Today bestselling author Ava Harrison comes a steamy standalone romance about a grumpy talent agent and the gorgeous business rival who can’t stand him.
He’s the hotshot agent who hates my guts.
I’m the (almost) one-night stand turned business rival.
Imagine my surprise when Paxton Ramsey shows up across the boardroom table.
Gone is the sexy smirk, replaced by open hostility with a side of taunting.
His overbearing, grumpy attitude makes my blood boil.
But I can’t forget the taste of our kiss. The thrill of his touch.
Our clients expect us to work together.
I can’t even stand being in the same zip code.
Surely, I can survive one week trapped on an island with my nemesis?
Until one week turns into two. Then three. Then four.
When he flaunts his power to make my career dreams come true…
It takes everything in me not to ruin his.
Paxton Ramsey thinks he’ll be the death of me.
But I just might teach him how to live in the process.
He’s the hotshot agent who hates my guts.
I’m the (almost) one-night stand turned business rival.
Imagine my surprise when Paxton Ramsey shows up across the boardroom table.
Gone is the sexy smirk, replaced by open hostility with a side of taunting.
His overbearing, grumpy attitude makes my blood boil.
But I can’t forget the taste of our kiss. The thrill of his touch.
Our clients expect us to work together.
I can’t even stand being in the same zip code.
Surely, I can survive one week trapped on an island with my nemesis?
Until one week turns into two. Then three. Then four.
When he flaunts his power to make my career dreams come true…
It takes everything in me not to ruin his.
Paxton Ramsey thinks he’ll be the death of me.
But I just might teach him how to live in the process.
392 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 15, 2023
1379 people are currently reading
1105 people want to read
About the author
Ava Harrison
43 books3,680 followersAva Harrison is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author.
When she’s not journaling her life, you can find her window shopping, cooking dinner for her family, or curled up on her couch reading a book.
When she’s not journaling her life, you can find her window shopping, cooking dinner for her family, or curled up on her couch reading a book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 200 reviews
May 15, 2023
I haven’t read an Ava Harrison book in about 4 years or so, but I have listened to about 8 or 9 of her audiobooks and I am an addict! Resist sounded too good to me to wait for audio credits to be available so I jumped at the chance to read an ARC and it was so good I tried to read thru the night (lol) but alas, my eyes were on fire, so I had to finish in 2 sittings and it was well worth the lack of sleep and painful eyes!
What I loved most about this story is that it starts sexy with a bang but it’s not a sexually driven story. The story is character driven which is perfection for their situation and circumstances! They’re business rivals who actually loathe one another but the hate isn’t because they know know each other, it’s the whole business rivals. Feel me so far? When they’re forced into a close proximity situation, they begin to learn and understand each other and realize the assumptions they had were just that, assumptions … and it doesn’t hurt they have fire chemistry for days!
Everything about this story was delicious and exciting and easy to get lost in. I can’t wait till I can get lost in the story again thru Jason Clarke & CJ Bloom’s narration!
What I loved most about this story is that it starts sexy with a bang but it’s not a sexually driven story. The story is character driven which is perfection for their situation and circumstances! They’re business rivals who actually loathe one another but the hate isn’t because they know know each other, it’s the whole business rivals. Feel me so far? When they’re forced into a close proximity situation, they begin to learn and understand each other and realize the assumptions they had were just that, assumptions … and it doesn’t hurt they have fire chemistry for days!
Everything about this story was delicious and exciting and easy to get lost in. I can’t wait till I can get lost in the story again thru Jason Clarke & CJ Bloom’s narration!
May 9, 2023
I am absolutely obsessed with Ava Harrison's writing. Resist was the perfect Grumpy Sunshine story with sexy chemistry and addicting banter. Paxton and Mallory were both great characters separately, but together they sizzled on the page!
Overall, I loved the premise of the story and the added sexual tension through their slow buildup and the secrets between them. The way they met was so fun and engaging. I loved how fiery Mallory was and how she gave as good as she got. Her connection with Paxton was so delicious! This was another great story by this author! 5 stars! ~Ratula
Overall, I loved the premise of the story and the added sexual tension through their slow buildup and the secrets between them. The way they met was so fun and engaging. I loved how fiery Mallory was and how she gave as good as she got. Her connection with Paxton was so delicious! This was another great story by this author! 5 stars! ~Ratula
May 24, 2023
This was an okay read for me. I think this book just wasn't for me. It's pretty rare for me to love a book involving celebrities. I didn't really care about the movie they were trying to save or the actors 🤷🏼♀️ But that's just personal preference! I had no idea we would be reading about a movie set like that. I also just didn't really care for the hero. He was too quick to judge.
The audio narrators did a fantastic job, I will say! I love both of these narrators and I felt like their voices very much fit their characters :)
I was kindly sent an ARC for the audio of this book from Forever and Always PR. Thank you!
The audio narrators did a fantastic job, I will say! I love both of these narrators and I felt like their voices very much fit their characters :)
I was kindly sent an ARC for the audio of this book from Forever and Always PR. Thank you!
May 12, 2023
Resist is the newest release from Ava Harrison and I was sold when I saw it was a workplace romance, enemies-to-lovers vibes, and a grumpy hero! 😍
Paxton and Mallory are both talent agents when they meet at a party and hookup quickly. The lust is strong between them right from the start After sharing a passionate night together and going their separate ways, they meet again later and realize their work rivals who hate one another. Pax thinks she’s entitled and obviously has an unfair advantage because of who her father is (he’s famous and owns the largest talent agency in the world). But little do they know they actually have a lot in common, including pushing hard to defend their clients. They butt heads over work and meet up again 3 months later when they both have to travel with their Hollywood clients to an island movie shoot.
The chemistry between Pax and Mallory is definitely sizzling and they definitely hate one another! While they do get together at the beginning of the story in a very lust-filled night, it was nice to see the rest of the steam doesn’t kick in right away. They grow to understand one another and he definitely realizes he made wrong assumptions about her and her career. This was entertaining and I liked all the Hollywood action as well (the actors, shooting the movie, the press getting tip-offs). The narrators, CJ Bloom and Jason Clarke, are two of my favs and they especially enhanced the reading experience!
Thank you to Forever and Always PR for an audio ARC, all thoughts in this review are my own. Resist has a release date of May 15th, 2023!
Paxton and Mallory are both talent agents when they meet at a party and hookup quickly. The lust is strong between them right from the start After sharing a passionate night together and going their separate ways, they meet again later and realize their work rivals who hate one another. Pax thinks she’s entitled and obviously has an unfair advantage because of who her father is (he’s famous and owns the largest talent agency in the world). But little do they know they actually have a lot in common, including pushing hard to defend their clients. They butt heads over work and meet up again 3 months later when they both have to travel with their Hollywood clients to an island movie shoot.
The chemistry between Pax and Mallory is definitely sizzling and they definitely hate one another! While they do get together at the beginning of the story in a very lust-filled night, it was nice to see the rest of the steam doesn’t kick in right away. They grow to understand one another and he definitely realizes he made wrong assumptions about her and her career. This was entertaining and I liked all the Hollywood action as well (the actors, shooting the movie, the press getting tip-offs). The narrators, CJ Bloom and Jason Clarke, are two of my favs and they especially enhanced the reading experience!
Thank you to Forever and Always PR for an audio ARC, all thoughts in this review are my own. Resist has a release date of May 15th, 2023!
May 18, 2023
DNF at 26%
I like Ava Harrison’s work and I’ve read so many of her books, but I just could not get into this one.
Pax is just a straight jerk, I’m sorry but he is. The chip on his shoulder is so damn big. I just got tired of the assumptions he kept making on Mal. She’s a spoiled princess, nothing but a nepo baby, she’s childish and can get away with anything. My god the only one that was childish was Pax. He gets defensive of Mal when another woman starts talking crap about her until she says something about how Mal’s dad had plans for her to go big. And of course, because big baby Pax heard one person bring up Mal’s dad and gave him unsubstantiated gossip, he believed it right away. Are you kidding me? You’re grown please stop. His entire inner dialogue is how she’s a brat and has everything handed to her but refuses to try and have an actual conversation with Mal without the insults and nasty comments. I don’t like him and I cannot continue reading because of him.
Mal needs to stand up for herself. The whole ‘well he won’t want to listen to what I have to say so why bother?’ Um, maybe bother because you have to work with him? Bother for your own self respect? Like I’m sorry but if someone just continued to sit there and spew some negative, fake crap at me repeatedly I wouldn’t care how hot they were and that they wouldn’t listen, I’d still attempt to stand up for myself. Like c’mon girl. Do better.
I really wanted to read more of this but every time Pax opened his mouth, even when he was being ‘nice’, I got frustrated.
I just don’t think this one is for me. I look forward to Ava Harrison’s next release though. Hopefully I’ll be able to connect more
I like Ava Harrison’s work and I’ve read so many of her books, but I just could not get into this one.
Pax is just a straight jerk, I’m sorry but he is. The chip on his shoulder is so damn big. I just got tired of the assumptions he kept making on Mal. She’s a spoiled princess, nothing but a nepo baby, she’s childish and can get away with anything. My god the only one that was childish was Pax. He gets defensive of Mal when another woman starts talking crap about her until she says something about how Mal’s dad had plans for her to go big. And of course, because big baby Pax heard one person bring up Mal’s dad and gave him unsubstantiated gossip, he believed it right away. Are you kidding me? You’re grown please stop. His entire inner dialogue is how she’s a brat and has everything handed to her but refuses to try and have an actual conversation with Mal without the insults and nasty comments. I don’t like him and I cannot continue reading because of him.
Mal needs to stand up for herself. The whole ‘well he won’t want to listen to what I have to say so why bother?’ Um, maybe bother because you have to work with him? Bother for your own self respect? Like I’m sorry but if someone just continued to sit there and spew some negative, fake crap at me repeatedly I wouldn’t care how hot they were and that they wouldn’t listen, I’d still attempt to stand up for myself. Like c’mon girl. Do better.
I really wanted to read more of this but every time Pax opened his mouth, even when he was being ‘nice’, I got frustrated.
I just don’t think this one is for me. I look forward to Ava Harrison’s next release though. Hopefully I’ll be able to connect more
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 18, 2023
Can I have him???
May 10, 2023
Paxton and Mallory. These two were spicy with a splash of banter and a side of holy hotness!
Paxton and Mallory first met at a function and things start to heat up between them until they are interrupted.
When they meet again, the meeting is not so hot, its ice cold. They are rival talent agents. Mallory's father is famous in the business and Paxton makes assumptions of her. These two are explosive!
The whole suspenseful mysterious who dunnit was intriguing as well.
I was hooked from the beginning on this story as one could always be and could expect from Ava Harrison.
The chemistry, the spiciness and banter. I loved it all.
ARC Review 📚
Paxton and Mallory first met at a function and things start to heat up between them until they are interrupted.
When they meet again, the meeting is not so hot, its ice cold. They are rival talent agents. Mallory's father is famous in the business and Paxton makes assumptions of her. These two are explosive!
The whole suspenseful mysterious who dunnit was intriguing as well.
I was hooked from the beginning on this story as one could always be and could expect from Ava Harrison.
The chemistry, the spiciness and banter. I loved it all.
ARC Review 📚
May 9, 2023
4.5!!
First time reading a book by this author! Definitely not disappointed! Enemies to Lovers! Hotshot agent who hates her! They are expected to work together! Very spicy! This was a fun quick read! Can’t wait to see what comes next from this author!
First time reading a book by this author! Definitely not disappointed! Enemies to Lovers! Hotshot agent who hates her! They are expected to work together! Very spicy! This was a fun quick read! Can’t wait to see what comes next from this author!
September 16, 2023
I didn’t hate this.. but I didn’t love it. I was really digging the enemies to lovers in the first half. The second half just kind of died off and felt lackluster. The twist didn’t even help save it for me, and the miscommunication was completely unnecessary.
What I loved was the story, the originality. It was one I haven’t read before and it definitely intrigued me. Just wish that it was executed better and that I felt more chemistry and believed the chemistry between the two main characters.
What I loved was the story, the originality. It was one I haven’t read before and it definitely intrigued me. Just wish that it was executed better and that I felt more chemistry and believed the chemistry between the two main characters.
May 26, 2023
average read
Not sure why I did not enjoy this one. I liked Mallory, she was hard working and caring. Paxton was quick to judge and thought too highly of himself. The island was pretty boring, no pretty scenery, no enjoyable banter between crew/actors etc. Just not for me.
Not sure why I did not enjoy this one. I liked Mallory, she was hard working and caring. Paxton was quick to judge and thought too highly of himself. The island was pretty boring, no pretty scenery, no enjoyable banter between crew/actors etc. Just not for me.
May 17, 2023
** Audio Review **'
Five irresistible stars!! Resist by Ava Harrison was a steamy, tensioned-filed enemies-to-lovers workplace romance that was addictive and seductive in all the best ways! I can always count on Ava to create the perfect alpha a-hole you absolutely love to hate, and Paxton Ramsey did not disappoint. Paxton and Mallory’s journey to HEA was full of suspenseful twists and steamy turns that left me longing for these two to find true happiness together finally.
Jason Clarke and C.J. Bloom narrate this audiobook, and whew…these two perfectly delivered all the fiery hot enemies-to-lovers vibes! (Grab a fan!) Jason’s deep demanding growly tone was spot-on for Paxton’s in-charge, protective persona, and he transitioned flawlessly to showcase his softer, charismatic side with Mallory too. (Swoon!) C.J. shines bright, capturing Mallory’s passionate and determined personality brilliantly giving her such nuance and grace. (Yes, lady!) The slow-burn simmering chemistry between this couple will burn up your earbuds!
Overall, I LOVED this book! If you are a fan of a workplace forbidden romance with a hot bossy talent agent, an up-and-coming determined heroine, an interrupted steamy first encounter, business rivals, demanding movie stars, a sketchy island movie set, Hollywood gossip leak, witty tension-filled banter, tropical storm spice, forced proximity, waterfall dates, secrets, betrayal, and a HEA you can’t resist, then you will love Paxton and Mallory’s romance. I always look forward to more from Ava Harrison.
Five irresistible stars!! Resist by Ava Harrison was a steamy, tensioned-filed enemies-to-lovers workplace romance that was addictive and seductive in all the best ways! I can always count on Ava to create the perfect alpha a-hole you absolutely love to hate, and Paxton Ramsey did not disappoint. Paxton and Mallory’s journey to HEA was full of suspenseful twists and steamy turns that left me longing for these two to find true happiness together finally.
Jason Clarke and C.J. Bloom narrate this audiobook, and whew…these two perfectly delivered all the fiery hot enemies-to-lovers vibes! (Grab a fan!) Jason’s deep demanding growly tone was spot-on for Paxton’s in-charge, protective persona, and he transitioned flawlessly to showcase his softer, charismatic side with Mallory too. (Swoon!) C.J. shines bright, capturing Mallory’s passionate and determined personality brilliantly giving her such nuance and grace. (Yes, lady!) The slow-burn simmering chemistry between this couple will burn up your earbuds!
Overall, I LOVED this book! If you are a fan of a workplace forbidden romance with a hot bossy talent agent, an up-and-coming determined heroine, an interrupted steamy first encounter, business rivals, demanding movie stars, a sketchy island movie set, Hollywood gossip leak, witty tension-filled banter, tropical storm spice, forced proximity, waterfall dates, secrets, betrayal, and a HEA you can’t resist, then you will love Paxton and Mallory’s romance. I always look forward to more from Ava Harrison.
May 15, 2023
Resist by Ava Harrison is an enjoyable and engaging standalone romance novel that features two business rivals who can't stand each other, Paxton Ramsey and Mallory. Despite their initial tension, they have to work together to satisfy their clients and find themselves on a trip to an island movie shoot, which allows them to explore their feelings for each other.
The author did a fantastic job of developing the relationship between Paxton and Mallory, which starts with lust but evolves into something deeper. They both have a lot in common and are passionate about defending their clients, which adds an exciting dimension to the story. The Hollywood action and the actors also provide an exciting backdrop to the novel.
In conclusion, if you're a fan of steamy romance novels that have an interesting plot and well-developed characters, then Resist is a must-read. It's a page-turner that will keep you hooked until the end.
4.5 stars
Arc team review
The author did a fantastic job of developing the relationship between Paxton and Mallory, which starts with lust but evolves into something deeper. They both have a lot in common and are passionate about defending their clients, which adds an exciting dimension to the story. The Hollywood action and the actors also provide an exciting backdrop to the novel.
In conclusion, if you're a fan of steamy romance novels that have an interesting plot and well-developed characters, then Resist is a must-read. It's a page-turner that will keep you hooked until the end.
4.5 stars
Arc team review
May 23, 2023
3.75/5 ⭐
2/5 🌶
Well, I liked this audiobook. I really did, but a few things didn’t satisfy me. The development from enemies/rivals to lovers was too sudden for me, the movie setting and filming was too present, and the ending was way too quick.
Also, I didn't feel much of a connection to the characters. They were nice, but yeah. There's not much to say.
It's an entertaining read, but it didn't hook me as much as would've liked.
But the voices of the narrators were great. The male voice in particular was really good
2/5 🌶
Well, I liked this audiobook. I really did, but a few things didn’t satisfy me. The development from enemies/rivals to lovers was too sudden for me, the movie setting and filming was too present, and the ending was way too quick.
Also, I didn't feel much of a connection to the characters. They were nice, but yeah. There's not much to say.
It's an entertaining read, but it didn't hook me as much as would've liked.
But the voices of the narrators were great. The male voice in particular was really good
June 15, 2023
˗ˏˋ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ´ˎ˗
﹌﹌﹌
3.75 stars! I adore how this story reflects the drama that Hollywood is known for. I admired the way the author depicted Teagan's mental health issues, which come with living a Hollywood lifestyle, as well as the costs involved. In some aspects, this book was quite realistic to read. The only thing Paxton did that I would change was his groveling. I know deep down that Mallory was the kind of girl who would make someone grovel and pay, so she didn't need to take him back right away. Paxton has serious trust issues and should have taken more action instead of assuming. However, their relationship was lovely overall. NOW… who the fuck was @Stargossip?!
﹌﹌﹌
﹌﹌﹌
3.75 stars! I adore how this story reflects the drama that Hollywood is known for. I admired the way the author depicted Teagan's mental health issues, which come with living a Hollywood lifestyle, as well as the costs involved. In some aspects, this book was quite realistic to read. The only thing Paxton did that I would change was his groveling. I know deep down that Mallory was the kind of girl who would make someone grovel and pay, so she didn't need to take him back right away. Paxton has serious trust issues and should have taken more action instead of assuming. However, their relationship was lovely overall. NOW… who the fuck was @Stargossip?!
﹌﹌﹌
May 19, 2023
Rivals to lovers
Forbidden workplace
Forced proximity
This character driven story was so much fun. It starts off with a fun, sexy encounter between Mal & Pax, and then jumps to the future.
Mal & Pax are forced to stay on an island with their clients while they are filming. They’re there to put out PR fires and make sure the film gets made, while also trying to keep their clients safe, happy, and make sure they’re behaving (Poor Pax).
I loved the added little mystery about who on the island is leaking information to the press. It was a fun twist. A little predictable, but still a nice addition.
The chemistry and tension between Mal & Pax is 🔥🔥🔥, and when they finally give in to it… *phew*, it’s hot.
CJ & Jason were absolutely perfect for this book. Their narration brought this entertaining story to life and made it even harder to put down!
Forbidden workplace
Forced proximity
This character driven story was so much fun. It starts off with a fun, sexy encounter between Mal & Pax, and then jumps to the future.
Mal & Pax are forced to stay on an island with their clients while they are filming. They’re there to put out PR fires and make sure the film gets made, while also trying to keep their clients safe, happy, and make sure they’re behaving (Poor Pax).
I loved the added little mystery about who on the island is leaking information to the press. It was a fun twist. A little predictable, but still a nice addition.
The chemistry and tension between Mal & Pax is 🔥🔥🔥, and when they finally give in to it… *phew*, it’s hot.
CJ & Jason were absolutely perfect for this book. Their narration brought this entertaining story to life and made it even harder to put down!
August 7, 2023
This was a very interesting storyline and I really enjoyed it. When two talent agents get called out to a remote island to help “manage” their respective clients during a film shoot, everything that can go wrong does. Maybe it’s the tropical setting, or the storm that forces Paxton and Mallory into close quarters, but the more time they spend together the harder it becomes to deny their attraction to each other.
May 24, 2023
I recently finished Resist by Ava Harrison and LOVED it. This was an enemies to lovers workplace romance and I couldn’t put it down. I loved Mallory and Paxton so much. The grumpy/sunshine vibes, the instant connection, all of the tension. Jason Clarke and CJ Bloom nailed it. If you’re looking for a steamy romance audiobook, definitely pick this one up!
May 31, 2023
Very good easy read
July 23, 2023
Boring
I was completely bored but finished the book. This isn’t normal Ava Harrison story. The angst was forced and so was the romance.
I was completely bored but finished the book. This isn’t normal Ava Harrison story. The angst was forced and so was the romance.
June 8, 2023
Dear Lord, why can I not find a decent book to read?!
2% in and I have to quit.
In the midst of a party, he sees her from across the room and is instantly intrigued. He walks over to her.
"Hi, I'm Pax."
"Hi, I'm Mal."
"Hey Mal, you're not an actress, are you?"
"No, why?"
"Because I want to kiss you."
"Yes, please."
Mouths connect.
And six paragraphs later she's placing his hand on her pu**y as they sit at a table, in the middle of a room, at a party.
Seriously?
No thanks.
2% in and I have to quit.
In the midst of a party, he sees her from across the room and is instantly intrigued. He walks over to her.
"Hi, I'm Pax."
"Hi, I'm Mal."
"Hey Mal, you're not an actress, are you?"
"No, why?"
"Because I want to kiss you."
"Yes, please."
Mouths connect.
And six paragraphs later she's placing his hand on her pu**y as they sit at a table, in the middle of a room, at a party.
Seriously?
No thanks.
May 17, 2023
✨ Rating: 5/5 ⭐️
🌶️ Spice: 2/5
This one definitely surprised me and I enjoyed every second of it. Let me start off by saying that this is the second book I’ve read from this author. The first one just wasn’t for me and that’s totally okay. So, when the opportunity to get the ARC for this book came, I was a little bit weary that I wouldn’t like it. But let me tell you that the best thing I did was give it a chance. I was smiling and laughing through the whole book.
This book follows Paxton and Mallory. They are both talent agents who meet at a Hollywood party. At the time of their meeting Paxton doesn’t know Mallory’s identity but he definitely wants to get in her pants or rather her dress. After a VERY steamy session in public and the promise of continuing in private, they get interrupted by an eccentric movie director Paxton wanted to charm into making a movie which ends up breaking the spell between Paxton and Mallory ending their promise to spend the night together. So, what happens when they meet 3 months later? Paxton finds out that Mallory is the agent for the lead actress in the movie he was pitching to the eccentric director and now they must work together. The problem? Mallory is the daughter of Paxton’s biggest enemy in the industry and his disdain for her family taints their work relationship and any chance of reliving the moment that happened at the party.
The relationship between Paxton and Mal becomes tainted very fast so we have a sort of strangers to enemies to lovers situation which makes for funny banter and a lot of instances when their disdain for each other is questioned. Oh, and did I mentioned they get put together in an island with poor cell reception and huts? Yup! And it makes for a lot of funny situations.
Like I said at the beginning, I definitely enjoyed this book and I’m glad I got the chance to read it. I want to thank The Author Agency & Ava Harrison for allowing me the chance to read the ARC for this book. You should definitely pick this one up if you enjoy enemies to lovers, forced proximity, and funny banter.
🌶️ Spice: 2/5
This one definitely surprised me and I enjoyed every second of it. Let me start off by saying that this is the second book I’ve read from this author. The first one just wasn’t for me and that’s totally okay. So, when the opportunity to get the ARC for this book came, I was a little bit weary that I wouldn’t like it. But let me tell you that the best thing I did was give it a chance. I was smiling and laughing through the whole book.
This book follows Paxton and Mallory. They are both talent agents who meet at a Hollywood party. At the time of their meeting Paxton doesn’t know Mallory’s identity but he definitely wants to get in her pants or rather her dress. After a VERY steamy session in public and the promise of continuing in private, they get interrupted by an eccentric movie director Paxton wanted to charm into making a movie which ends up breaking the spell between Paxton and Mallory ending their promise to spend the night together. So, what happens when they meet 3 months later? Paxton finds out that Mallory is the agent for the lead actress in the movie he was pitching to the eccentric director and now they must work together. The problem? Mallory is the daughter of Paxton’s biggest enemy in the industry and his disdain for her family taints their work relationship and any chance of reliving the moment that happened at the party.
The relationship between Paxton and Mal becomes tainted very fast so we have a sort of strangers to enemies to lovers situation which makes for funny banter and a lot of instances when their disdain for each other is questioned. Oh, and did I mentioned they get put together in an island with poor cell reception and huts? Yup! And it makes for a lot of funny situations.
Like I said at the beginning, I definitely enjoyed this book and I’m glad I got the chance to read it. I want to thank The Author Agency & Ava Harrison for allowing me the chance to read the ARC for this book. You should definitely pick this one up if you enjoy enemies to lovers, forced proximity, and funny banter.
May 13, 2023
Resist is a Hollywood tale full of on set chaos, preconceived assumptions, and ultimately love. Paxton immediately falls in lust with the beautiful and mysterious Mallory at a work party, but before he can seal the deal for the night, is interrupted by an eccentric director. Their paths cross again when he realizes she's the daughter of his nemesis and agent to the female lead in the movie his actor is attached to. As the film begins production, both leads reach out to the agents to help them on the remote island. There, they must fight this constant attraction with Paxton's surly barbs and Mallory feeling backed into a corner at all times. Not to mention tabloid leaks, safety concerns, and being isolated on a remote island with little power. As things heat up on set, so does the chemistry behind the scenes for both agents. Bit being on opposite sides of the fence with two warring leads could prove too much for a relationship to survive.
I thought this book was easy to enjoy and get lost in. Paxton was a real grump when it specifically came to Mallory, which allowed me to feel her angst over his actions towards her. It established a hurdle they needed to overcome that also mirrored what hurdles they had professionally. I thought the ramifications of people discovering their eventual relationship were logical and added weight to the need for secrecy. I admired Mallory's empathetic nature and her love for her client. She clearly allowed her heart to lead and shine. Together, these two had banter, which the author does so well and plenty of chemistry. I loved the setting and Hollywoord background since it's not something I read a ton of.
🏝 forced proximity
🏝 grumpy hero
🏝 secret relationship
🏝 mysterious sabatoge on set
I thought this book was easy to enjoy and get lost in. Paxton was a real grump when it specifically came to Mallory, which allowed me to feel her angst over his actions towards her. It established a hurdle they needed to overcome that also mirrored what hurdles they had professionally. I thought the ramifications of people discovering their eventual relationship were logical and added weight to the need for secrecy. I admired Mallory's empathetic nature and her love for her client. She clearly allowed her heart to lead and shine. Together, these two had banter, which the author does so well and plenty of chemistry. I loved the setting and Hollywoord background since it's not something I read a ton of.
🏝 forced proximity
🏝 grumpy hero
🏝 secret relationship
🏝 mysterious sabatoge on set
April 23, 2024
I received an eARC in exchange for my honest review. This is my first by Ava Harrison and I am literally obsessed now.
Paxton and Mallory are both talent agents when they meet at a party and hookup quickly. The lust/chemistry is strong between them right from the start. After sharing a passionate night together and going their separate ways. Their paths cross again when he realizes she's the daughter of his nemesis and agent to the female lead in the movie his actor is attached to. Pax thinks Mal is entitled and obviously has an unfair advantage because of who her father is (he is a very well-known talent agent). What they don’t know is that they actually have a lot in common, including pushing hard to defend their clients. As the film begins production, both leads reach out to the agents to help them on the remote island. While there, they fight this constant attraction with Paxton's surly barbs and Mallory feeling backed into a corner at all times. As things heat up on set, so does the chemistry behind the scenes for both agents.
These characters are snarky, quick witted, and definitely have so much tension. They spend a majority of the book going in circles around each other. It takes a dang long time for Paxton to pull his head out of their butt It is a slow burn, but once they get over their differences it gets HOOOTTT!
Tropes:
Enemies to Lovers
Forced Proximity
Workplace Rivals
Forbidden
Grumpy x Sunshine
Overall: 4.25
Spice: 3
Paxton and Mallory are both talent agents when they meet at a party and hookup quickly. The lust/chemistry is strong between them right from the start. After sharing a passionate night together and going their separate ways. Their paths cross again when he realizes she's the daughter of his nemesis and agent to the female lead in the movie his actor is attached to. Pax thinks Mal is entitled and obviously has an unfair advantage because of who her father is (he is a very well-known talent agent). What they don’t know is that they actually have a lot in common, including pushing hard to defend their clients. As the film begins production, both leads reach out to the agents to help them on the remote island. While there, they fight this constant attraction with Paxton's surly barbs and Mallory feeling backed into a corner at all times. As things heat up on set, so does the chemistry behind the scenes for both agents.
These characters are snarky, quick witted, and definitely have so much tension. They spend a majority of the book going in circles around each other. It takes a dang long time for Paxton to pull his head out of their butt It is a slow burn, but once they get over their differences it gets HOOOTTT!
Tropes:
Enemies to Lovers
Forced Proximity
Workplace Rivals
Forbidden
Grumpy x Sunshine
Overall: 4.25
Spice: 3
May 16, 2023
***ARC Provided by the Author***
I love dark romance, so Ava Harrison is a favorite author of mine, even when the story she writes is lighter as I also love it when authors I already enjoy write something that is a little different than they usually write. This was a sexy and romantic story, but it was focused on the characters and getting to know them, with the sexy times tossed in...and it wasn't dark at all.
Paxton and Mallory meet at an industry party and are interrupted in their initial sexy meeting, which not only lets us see their attraction but also lets us know that they are attracted to one another and that there is something between them.
As we then go to the enemies portion of the story, this works really well. Usually in an enemies to lovers you don;t have the connection with the characters initially, but in this one, the way it was written lets you see Paxton and Mallory's chemistry initially which makes you look forward to the part of the story where they explore their connection.
Add in the connection we already know they have and the character development, and you not only start to like them, you look forward to when they finally get together.
I enjoyed and recommend this title.
I love dark romance, so Ava Harrison is a favorite author of mine, even when the story she writes is lighter as I also love it when authors I already enjoy write something that is a little different than they usually write. This was a sexy and romantic story, but it was focused on the characters and getting to know them, with the sexy times tossed in...and it wasn't dark at all.
Paxton and Mallory meet at an industry party and are interrupted in their initial sexy meeting, which not only lets us see their attraction but also lets us know that they are attracted to one another and that there is something between them.
As we then go to the enemies portion of the story, this works really well. Usually in an enemies to lovers you don;t have the connection with the characters initially, but in this one, the way it was written lets you see Paxton and Mallory's chemistry initially which makes you look forward to the part of the story where they explore their connection.
Add in the connection we already know they have and the character development, and you not only start to like them, you look forward to when they finally get together.
I enjoyed and recommend this title.
May 16, 2023
Let me start off by saying, I love Ava Harrison. She is a very good writer technically, and she can tell a well-rounded story. Mallory and Paxton are talent agents, and their clients are working on a movie and the clients do not get along. Neither does Mallory and Paxton. However, with Mallory and Paxton, has sexual chemistry. I feel like Paxton was pretty mean to Mallory at the beginning, and I wanted Mallory to put him more in his place. There was intentional miscommunication, where neither would talk to each other but assume the worst. Paxton specifically does this a lot, which he justifies it as because of who her father is. When Paxton and Mallory communicated and trusted each other, romance was gorgeous and I loved their time on the island during and after the hurricane. It's a solid romance from Ava Harrison, with the tropes: workplace, forced proximity, rivals to lovers.
I did listen to the audiobook. Jason Clarke and CJ Bloom were both perfection when bringing Paxton and Mallory alive. The narrators elevated the story so I would recommend this book in audio format, which releases on May 15, 2023!
Thank you to Forever and Always PR for an audiobook ARC.
I did listen to the audiobook. Jason Clarke and CJ Bloom were both perfection when bringing Paxton and Mallory alive. The narrators elevated the story so I would recommend this book in audio format, which releases on May 15, 2023!
Thank you to Forever and Always PR for an audiobook ARC.
May 14, 2023
Resist by Ava Harrison was such a great workplace + enemies to lovers + Grumpy x Sunshine romance.
When I started reading this book I was obsessed. Ava’s writing is so good and absolutely perfect.
You have everything involved that you need amazing, sizzling chemistry, a totally addicting banter and sexual tension.
Resist is the story about Paxton and Mallory, who shared a very passionate night after meeting at a party. Little did they know, they would meet again and it turns out they‘re actually work rivals.
I really enjoyed how both characters are having the same job and were forced to work together for a Hollywood client on an island. It was great to see how both thought about one another and how they both got to understand each other.
If you’re looking for a book filled with sizzling and sexual tension this book is definitely for you.
I very much enjoyed it and it made my work week so much better.
Thank you to @theauthor.agency and @avaharrison for sending me this amazing ARC
Resist by Ava Harrison comes out May 15th. Go and check it out!
When I started reading this book I was obsessed. Ava’s writing is so good and absolutely perfect.
You have everything involved that you need amazing, sizzling chemistry, a totally addicting banter and sexual tension.
Resist is the story about Paxton and Mallory, who shared a very passionate night after meeting at a party. Little did they know, they would meet again and it turns out they‘re actually work rivals.
I really enjoyed how both characters are having the same job and were forced to work together for a Hollywood client on an island. It was great to see how both thought about one another and how they both got to understand each other.
If you’re looking for a book filled with sizzling and sexual tension this book is definitely for you.
I very much enjoyed it and it made my work week so much better.
Thank you to @theauthor.agency and @avaharrison for sending me this amazing ARC
Resist by Ava Harrison comes out May 15th. Go and check it out!
May 17, 2023
4.5 ⭐️ 3🌶️
This was my first Ava Harrison book and I Ate.It.Up.
I was hooked from the first chapter to be honest. Ava sets up a really great first scene with amazing chemistry between the two
Main characters. It did not feel insta lusty to me!
When the main characters find out they are rivals and work for competitors they resort to a hate for each other instantly.
They are forced onto a remote island where their clients are shooting a movie. Throughout the book they learn to like each other and realize that they don’t actually hate each other.
Their banter was A+, the chemistry was there throughout and slow burn was chef’s kiss!
The spice was perfection and you were rooting for them the entire time.
I love that there was an added element of a light mystery throughout which gave more depth to this romance read.
All in all a solid, entertaining read!
It’s available now on KU!
Thank you Ava Harrison and The Author Agency for the opportunity to read and give an honest review of this book.
This was my first Ava Harrison book and I Ate.It.Up.
I was hooked from the first chapter to be honest. Ava sets up a really great first scene with amazing chemistry between the two
Main characters. It did not feel insta lusty to me!
When the main characters find out they are rivals and work for competitors they resort to a hate for each other instantly.
They are forced onto a remote island where their clients are shooting a movie. Throughout the book they learn to like each other and realize that they don’t actually hate each other.
Their banter was A+, the chemistry was there throughout and slow burn was chef’s kiss!
The spice was perfection and you were rooting for them the entire time.
I love that there was an added element of a light mystery throughout which gave more depth to this romance read.
All in all a solid, entertaining read!
It’s available now on KU!
Thank you Ava Harrison and The Author Agency for the opportunity to read and give an honest review of this book.
May 15, 2023
Honestly this wasn’t my favorite by this author.
I was expecting the mmc to be more sunshine than grumpy asshole & what ruined a lot of the story for me was his assumptions about the FMC.
I didn’t care much for the FMC either. I didn’t like how she kept going on and on about “if you knew the truth…” like girl just say whatever you’re gonna say and move on.
Really not a fan of the miscommunication and break up either.
I was expecting the mmc to be more sunshine than grumpy asshole & what ruined a lot of the story for me was his assumptions about the FMC.
I didn’t care much for the FMC either. I didn’t like how she kept going on and on about “if you knew the truth…” like girl just say whatever you’re gonna say and move on.
Really not a fan of the miscommunication and break up either.
July 20, 2023
This whole book truly felt like a fever dream. The MMC was so disrespectful to the FMC throughout the whole book and all of this due to assumptions he has about her? He doesn't bother to give her a chance before judging her and assuming she's a spoiled brat because he hates her dad. I'm only giving it 2 stars cause I thought the setting and plot were interesting and unusual, but the romance really wasn't it.
May 17, 2023
Audible listen narrated by Jason Clarke and CJ Bloom.
I rarely do the enemies to lovers books. I never can forgive as easily if there isn’t enough heart or chemistry between the characters and I loathe assumptions.
Half way into this story, I wanted to stop filming the movie! It just got over the top ridiculous. Paxton seemed childish, not a fan. Mallory was okay.
Jason and CJ did great work!
I rarely do the enemies to lovers books. I never can forgive as easily if there isn’t enough heart or chemistry between the characters and I loathe assumptions.
Half way into this story, I wanted to stop filming the movie! It just got over the top ridiculous. Paxton seemed childish, not a fan. Mallory was okay.
Jason and CJ did great work!
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