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Red Room #1

Bad Boss

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CUTTHROAT. ICE COLD. BILLIONAIRE.

A pioneer of women’s lingerie and the owner of a prestigious fashion house, Graeme Bellamy has dominated the hearts – and nether regions – of high society women half the world over. The one person capable of keeping his ego – and schedule – in check is Evelyn King, his dutiful assistant.

A methodical, obsessive Hellcat, Evie has spent her life taking crap from no one – especially not her moody, ruthless boss. But when an old rival returns and threatens Graeme’s power, Evie’s skills are pushed to the limit. Caught in a tug of war between two powerful men, she is forced to launch the performance of a lifetime.

One where it’s not just her salary on the line… but her heart.

A new contemporary dark romance series of interconnected standalone novels full of alpha billionaire heroes, feisty heroines, and laugh-out-loud banter.

427 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 27, 2023

33 people are currently reading
109 people want to read

About the author

Lana Sky

61 books1,326 followers
I am a quirky writer from the US who dabbles in dark, paranormal and contemporary romance. My stories aren't always typical, but contain a little something for everyone.

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5 stars
49 (42%)
4 stars
30 (25%)
3 stars
23 (19%)
2 stars
11 (9%)
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3 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
Profile Image for ciin_leest.
444 reviews24 followers
June 25, 2023
This book.. This was my first time reading a book by Lana Sky and I loved every second of it! The banter between Evie and Graeme had me laughing all the time. And then the sexual tension.. Oohh my.. It was so sensible. 

Loved the duo POV, getting an inside in both their minds and learning what both of them thought was just really great. Both of them have gone through so much it was amazing to see them grow together. 

The author has an amazing writingstyle and keeps the storyline flowing. Just when you think everything is going to be alright, Lana takes a turn in the story and you just get sucked in more and more. 

This is definitely a must read if you like it a bit darker, with a delicious grumpy boss and a strong FMC. And with the tension and the banters flying of the pages. 

I can't wait to read more about Evie and Graeme. 

Thank you author for the ARC to read. I left this review voluntarily. 
Profile Image for Karin.
2,178 reviews
June 27, 2023
Graeme and Evelyn’s story was perfect with the best back and forth banter! They both are very no nonsense type of people but total opposites who don’t relent to anyone especially each other but Graeme has definitely found his match with Evie!
Profile Image for Sharon Moritz-rosenthal.
2,271 reviews29 followers
June 26, 2023
I received a complimentary early release e-book prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.

I have never read this author before and well I totally loved it so much. It's supposed to be a stand-alone book. I typically don't like serials or cliff hangers so when I heard about this story, I totally thought it was a standalone within the Red Room Series. I thought that would mean it's a whole and complete story. As I finished reading it, I am just not sure if it's over or there is more coming for the couple, or it will move to other characters. I looked for more info and just could not find it.

This is a long story and I felt I could use more chapters to tie up Evie and G's story. Things felt resolved but also unfinished. There is also no note or epilogue that tells readers what or who is next.

That said I loved this story. It was a very intense story and G is extremely intense. So much that Evie is the only one who can tame him slightly. He has worked with Evie for over three years and she was so funny with how she sees him have bad moods and she tries to feed him because she thinks it's about his blood sugar.

Evie has no life or even friends and to me that was a bit sad. Not even at work where she spends all her time. G is very much her life, she follows him around from morning thru to bedtime and has done this for over three years.

She also has an issue with a brother who owes lots of money and she is always moving trying to escape the brother and his "friends". This story had dark undertones but there is no violence in this story. There are warnings and it has some dark moments but its not mafia related and no real violence.

G has a VERY complicated past and family relationships. One is Adrian who in this story is trying to get G to partner with his club and merge it with his. I didn't understand all this exactly. I was not sure why it benefited him really. His brother is connected to this Adrian guy but G also tries to limit contact with that brother. This aspect of the story I didn't totally understand except that G hates this Adrian guy and doesn't trust him at all, yet he has many meeting with the guy.

G and Evie have a very deep relationship with each other. He actually is never awful to her, its more of she helps him not be horrible to other people he works with. She also acts like a tamer in that she is able to calm him down. They are two people who work together but have the deepest respect for each other. I would even say at times they are friendly. As to the fake relationship aspect of this story. I would not say its ever fake.

G does something in this story to protect Evie and it causes issues for her but I don't think she ever hates him. I also don't think he ever hates her either. They at time are flirty or say some harsh things but its never out of anger or hatred but more of that they are very honest with each other in all ways. Its a very unique relationship and goes beyond boss/employee. To some degree they are partners and they both work well together and when one is missing, the other one feels a bit lost. But together they are this team that can do anything.

This story is engrossing and so well written. The characters jump off the page and their relationship is so unique and special that I adored how they are with each other. This is a very complicated story and definitely not a light read. Its intense and has very intense characters and intense scenes. Its definitely a series I will be looking to read more of.
2,555 reviews23 followers
June 27, 2023
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "BAD BOSS" WOW!!!! This story will consume your right from the start with so much angsty grumpy behavior, intrigue, suspense, deceit, secrets, steam, emotional turmoil, rivals, revenge, twists that has you glued to seat turning page after page.
Graeme Bellamy puts the *SS in ba*tard he's head of prestigious Atelier Noir Fashion Company, runs it with his sister Stella & he puts the fear of God in all his staff the only one who seems to calm him is his personal assistant Evelyn King who's a little spitfire in her prim & proper personality you'll love her.
Graeme Bellamy isn't pleased up hear his rival Adrian Riley a childhood friend who is now his enemy shows up unexpected wanting to merge the Red Room Club Bellamy owns in London with his in the States, everywhere he goes he takes Evelyn with him when he sees how Adrian eyes Evelyn he worries he'll try to use her against him to get what he wants.
I definitely recommend to get this riviting story with so much secrecy going on Graeme & Evelyn take you on quite the journey their chemistry is explosive she doesn't back down from him at all & he loves a challenge she's more than happy to give him, she has secrets on her past he wants know as well, one hit drunken steamy night will these two get a HEA, it's a must read you can't miss, this author never disappoints she's a brilliant story teller that hooks you to the end.
PHENOMINAL MINDBLIWING ROMANCE LOVED IT 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤
Profile Image for Kelly_Reads_Books.
2,128 reviews193 followers
June 23, 2023
Bad Boss was a delicious office romance, a cranky and cantankerous billionaire and his assistance who has to circumvent her employers daily life, right down to the lavender on his pillow at night and his clothes arranged by color and angles perfectly.
Lana, I was not expecting the grumpy Graeme Bellamy but he made my toes curl in his tenacity and surly conversation. Poor Evie, just trying to function as Graeme's assistant. Three years she has struggled to recognize his nuances and quirks, keep his blood sugar where it should be, and just make sure his world does not implode spectacularly.
Both Evie and Graeme's pasts keep presenting their ugly heads, bit by bit, so by the end you can understand why each of them is the way they are, as we are all a product of our past. Lana has done a spectacular job of shaping these characters into believable and complicated entities.
These two characters were so completely opposite, blatantly so, but they still complimented each other, thanks to Evie of course. That scene with the undergarments though, totally laughed out loud at the reveal 🤣
Wonderful story, relatable characters, an unlikely romance that stays true to their character.
Profile Image for Read What I Like Blog.
412 reviews42 followers
July 1, 2023
BAD BOSS (RED ROOM BOOK ONE)

Release Date: 06/27/23
Kindle Unlimited: [X]YES [ ]NO
Stand-alone: [ ]YES [X]NO
Author: Lana Sky
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spiciness rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
POV: Dual, first person
Main Characters: Evelyn & Graeme
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Tropes: billionaire; boss/employee

Review:

Evie played her part of competent assistant to her billionaire grumpy (most times rude) boss. Her organized, reliable personality made her manage both Graeme’s difficult personality and schedule. I confess I didn’t like him in the beginning. His character grew on me as the book went.

After the reappearance of an old rival, the MCs relationship starts to change and they start playing a game that I not always understood, but their relationship is intense in all aspects, from the constant banter to their intimate moments. As I was reading I didn’t realize their story wouldn’t be concluded in this book, so know this, it doesn’t and they are not as close to their HEA as I thought.


*** I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. ***
Profile Image for Tori Puente.
254 reviews9 followers
June 29, 2023
A combo of 2 of my favorite tropes, office romance & enemies to lovers, so of course I had to read it. Much more unique than the run of the mill stories in either of these categories, though. The leads have had time to get to know each other, there's true dislike on Evie's end (initially), coupled with an actual bad attitude from Graeme (not just in a false sense to keep things professional). I was glad to get both their viewpoints, otherwise Graeme would have been wholly unlikeable for a good portion of the book. Evie is an h you can root for, who puts him in his place even if she finds him attractive, doesn't take his attitude, and meets him head on.

And once the first text exchange happened, I was invested and enjoying the humor, as well. There's some mysterious elements on each of their parts, too, that added an interesting element. If you like funny enemies to lovers, with a truly grouchy H and lots of friction, this is for you.
Profile Image for Yvette89.
3,048 reviews44 followers
June 26, 2023
Office romance
Billionaire romance
Grumpy alpha
Great banter
Fake relationship
Spicy

Graeme is the type of character that you will love to hate. Handsome, rich, successful but a hurricane to tame. He has the entire office quivering in fear and anxiety with the exception of Evelyn. She is the only one who can calm him. She basically thinks he is hangry and tries to make sure he is properly fed. Hypoglycemia is real for Evie.
Their interactions are intense yet funny at times.
Both Evie and Graeme have secrets and when the past tears it’s ugly head the secrets make an impact that changes their course from boss employee to more. It gives us a complicated story. I enjoyed Graeme and Evie was was very invested in how their story played out. It was a bit long but the characters made it worthwhile.
A new to me author that has definitely caught my interest.






Profile Image for Jessica Rampersad.
340 reviews78 followers
July 26, 2023
Rating 5/5
Plot 5/5
Writing 5/5
Spice 5/5
Character Development 5/5

[I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book]

"Bad Boss" is the first book in Lana Sky’s Red Room series. This book tells the story of Evelyn King and Graeme Bellamy in a dual POV. Graeme is the owner of a women’s lingerie company, and Evie is his assistant. Graeme is cold, intimidating, and cruel. Evie is the best assistant anyone could ask for. She’s organized, methodical, and caring. When an old rival returns to the city and threatens Graeme’s power, Evie’s put to the ultimate test.

If you’re looking for a good laugh, this contemporary office romance is for you! I love how feisty Evie is. I also love Graeme’s cold character and seeing his development throughout the book. I’m looking forward to the rest of the series!
1,634 reviews1 follower
June 23, 2023
CHEEKY INSUFFERABLE BOSS
A brilliant cheeky read. I swear that a good 80% of this story had me either grinning, giddy with excitement or overcome by giggles from the intense crazy banter. Lana has proved once again that she is a talented writer from all her dark stories to this Fun and exciting story with some wild and daring twists that seam to always steam up the pages with daring banter that makes the story take on a life of it's own. I was beyond captivated and looking forward to the next page strung out with excitement until the devious and daring clffy that had my face frozen in one heck of a Cheeky smile. It definitely tickled my fancy. An easy 5 star read that has me delirious with excitement for the rest of Evie & Graeme's story.
52 reviews
June 26, 2023
Reading the synopsis for this book I was very excited and intrigued to find out more about it. as I am a huge fan of Lanas writing and all of her previous books have become a favourite of mine, I felt like this was something very different and lighter than her previous books and I was pretty excited to check it out and it did not disappoint.

I managed to finish this book in less than 3 days as i didn’t want put it down. Lana's writing manages to immediately hook you in. I loved both leads and felt they were brought to life so well especially with having the double POV, the chemistry between them was perfect and I was immediately rooting for them.

Overall, this was such a fun read and I enjoyed it a lot, I can’t recommend it enough.
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
20.1k reviews256 followers
June 27, 2023
This is the first in a new series, and this is Graeme and Evelyn’s story. Graeme is the grumpy, moody, and ruthless owner of a prestigious fashion house, and Evelyn is his feisty PA, who takes no nonsense from anyone, especially Graeme. Evie calms Graeme’s soul, but they both have secrets, so what will happen when the past comes back to haunt them? This is a well written story which is humorous, with witty banter, romance, combustible and undeniable chemistry, secrets, and love, which leads to an entertaining and steamy page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
725 reviews3 followers
June 28, 2023
Amazing read! Heads up, this story does not here so be prepared for a cliff hanger ending that leaves you ready to pickup the next book.
Evelyn and Graeme are characters that have lots to share with you. Their relationship begins as strictly business where neither one has ever thought about the other as anything else. There is a series of events and past baggage that begins to challenge our characters and leaves them not only leaning on one another but blurring the lines between business and personal. I look forward to the next devious challenge and it's outcome between these two fascinating characters. Enjoy!
Profile Image for Lou.
220 reviews
September 20, 2023
This book was well written, it didn't have the same grip as other Lana Sky books had such as Crossed Lines or Pretty Perfect, but it was ok. The story however was not it. For me it lacked the typical grip most of Lana Sky's book have on me. The characters felt flat. The interaction wasn't as addicting and ahhhhh I really really dislike the double Pov. It seem nowadays more and more popular to write in it but seriously .....I think this story would have profited a lot more if it was written in one Pov instead and kept the other side a mystery. Similar to watch Lana Sky did in Crossed Lines.

Thus it is a 2,5/5
Profile Image for Nonna 2K.
1,338 reviews11 followers
February 14, 2024
Say What?

I admit that this book had me turning the pages and I read it completely. The dynamic between Evie and her boss, Graeme, was interesting. There were times I was a little confused as to what was happening, but I think that was the actual storyline..the push and pull between the two main characters and their way of handling the situation they were in. I don’t know if the business with Adrian was concluded or not, it seemed to have been possibly dealt with once the conversation with Alexander happened, but I’m not sure. Maybe the rest of the series tells both of their stories.
Profile Image for Jessica DeVita.
84 reviews4 followers
June 27, 2023
This is the first that I have read from Lana Sky and it will definitely not be the last. This is the first in a new series and it left me anxious for the next book. It has a slightly slow start introducing the characters. Both characters being strong willed people and not one to back down to anyone made for an interesting read. However, the chemistry between Graeme and Evie was undeniable. The story was so captivating, pulling me in to finish reading it within two days. Definitely was a difficult book to put down!
Profile Image for Citra.
397 reviews24 followers
July 1, 2023
4/5

I've read quite a few of Lana's books and honestly they just keep getting better. I really loved the two main characters and the MMCs rival. I thought the plot was really well thought out and the spice was added in perfectly.

I honestly could not put this down and read it in like 2 days. Lana's writing had me captivated and just wanting more. The only downside? I went into this thinking it was a standalone so was really surprised with the ending but now I'm like, I'm glad it's not a standalone, I want more!
Profile Image for Gladys.
14k reviews162 followers
June 25, 2023
Evie and Graeme's story was a hilarious and utterly charming delight. Sharply witty, sinfully steamy and completely consuming, once you dive in you just don't want to come out. Electric chemistry is paired with loads of fiery sparks as this fun and seductively enticing story unfolds. Add in some very tantalizing twists and trust me you've not only found an amazing book but also the next series you are totally going to obsess over. I am independently posting an impartial review.
Profile Image for Tammy.
9,119 reviews49 followers
June 27, 2023
Evie seems to be the only person that can handle Graeme Bellamy’s moody behavior and smooth things over with his family and business associates. When a man from Graeme’s past comes back into his life he is worried for Evie and fires her but perhaps he made a mistake and needs to keep her close, very close instead. Fast-paced read with great characters and entertaining story with loads of steamy scenes. I was hooked from beginning to end. I loved and can’t wait for more in this series!
3,248 reviews27 followers
June 28, 2023
Graeme and Evelyn’s are total opposites and he is one grumpy intense dominant man that puts the fear in people except for Evie she calms him , I loved that opposites attract like that and figure things out.

Both have secrets and issues, the banter was great and I loved it I couldn't put it down caught my undivided attention. I really enjoys seeing them go through the motions that were set in place with the writing being fantastic as always.
Profile Image for Jess.
457 reviews
July 17, 2023
First, I loved the dynamic between Evie and Graeme. I loved their banter. Graeme was such a grump, and the fact that the only person who could put him in his place was Evie and I absolutely loved how freaking tough and badass she was. I loved the hints of suspense, it was just enough to keep me on the edge of my seat. I was hooked from the first page. If you love off the charts sexual tension, badass FMC, and a grumpy dominate bossy MMC definitely read this one!
Profile Image for Jess Boschock.
619 reviews4 followers
June 27, 2023
Lana has done it again with this steamy story. Graeme and Evie are everything in this story to their back and forth banter to the amazing chemistry these two have. The story was so good. It pulled me in and i finished this book in 2 days. I’m a huge loyal fan of Lana’s and always looking forward to her new books and this book definitely is a 5 star read.
3 reviews
June 26, 2023
Our MC reminded me of Lucifer from the Netflix show. He knows he wants Evie but they are both tangled in a battle of wits. It was enjoyable reading how their story progresses. I can’t wait for the next book in the series to come out!
544 reviews
June 28, 2023
Graeme is such a bad boss and Evie is his assistant. When their bargain begins that is when the fists come out swinging.

This book was a slow burn but had enough spice to keep you going. The plot was good and the ending was a HEA.

I have received this as an ARC and this is my honest review.
36 reviews
June 28, 2023
this is my first time reading an office romance by Lana Sky and this trope combined with dark romance which is Lana Sky’s expertise was an interesting read! I loved reading the different perspectives of the characters and would love to read more on Graeme’s and Evie’s story
39 reviews
June 28, 2023
I absolutely loved Graeme and Evie. They are so much fun. I loved how two powerful and level headed people can become so crazy when they collide. It’s a really spicy book , it’s really well written and I loved every word of it.
Profile Image for Christina Luberts.
2,775 reviews7 followers
June 30, 2023
We have Graeme and Evelyn's story. Hes a grump butt and she is very feisty. They each have a strong character that don't let the other take over. What will happen when the past comes? You will laugh at points in this story.
Profile Image for Kari Shanahan.
130 reviews4 followers
July 1, 2023
Graeme & Evie are a match made in heaven. I love a book that isn't INSTANT attraction. I love when characters have to work for it and deny feelings. It makes the story more believable and hotter. Cannot wait for Book 2!!!
Profile Image for Read.Review.Repeat Blog.
5,914 reviews100 followers
June 30, 2023
Graeme and Evelyn...grumpy and sunshine But there is something about the 2 of them that really just pushed all the right buttons and made me love them all that much more. Great, fun read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews

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