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A Temporary Engagement #1
Some Like It Charming
Mackenzie Wyatt believes in two things: herself and her plan. And her plan is to keep her head down and to work hard until she can retire. Never mind that she doesn't know what she'll do once she retires– at least she won't be working for the man anymore. Because even though he's a gorgeous man, he's still her boss and he likes to push her buttons.
Ethan Howell O'Connor's charmed life comes to a screeching halt after his latest ex-girlfriend starts a fashionable trend in talking to the tabloids. Now all of Ethan's old girlfriends are talking to the press, ruining his reputation, and wiping that charming smile right off his face. The only person that can brighten his black mood is the same person who can annoy him to kingdom come. He and Mackenzie have feuded since the day she was hired, but now Ethan's starting to realize: maybe those sparks were hiding a blazing fire.
Mackenzie's about to find out that sometimes a gorgeous man can come up with a plan all his own, and it's a given that it'll mess hers up.
Ethan Howell O'Connor's charmed life comes to a screeching halt after his latest ex-girlfriend starts a fashionable trend in talking to the tabloids. Now all of Ethan's old girlfriends are talking to the press, ruining his reputation, and wiping that charming smile right off his face. The only person that can brighten his black mood is the same person who can annoy him to kingdom come. He and Mackenzie have feuded since the day she was hired, but now Ethan's starting to realize: maybe those sparks were hiding a blazing fire.
Mackenzie's about to find out that sometimes a gorgeous man can come up with a plan all his own, and it's a given that it'll mess hers up.
180 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2013
756 people are currently reading
2668 people want to read
About the author
Megan Bryce
20 books282 followersMegan Bryce sits in front of a computer all day making up stories for a living. Which means she is not nearly as interesting (as well as tall, svelte, and/or dressed) as her characters. She gets bored quickly and just can't be bothered with anyone in her head who doesn't make her laugh--which translates into fun books, outrageous situations, and witty characters.
She writes both contemporary and historical romance, and you can visit her website at www.meganbryce.com
She writes both contemporary and historical romance, and you can visit her website at www.meganbryce.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 308 reviews
January 18, 2014
A hit that I’d put off reading for a long time—what a surprise (not).
The characters aren’t as convincing as I’d have liked, but I enjoyed Mackenzie and Ethan’s witty banter. That softball game photo in the paper and Ethan’s tongue-in-cheek comment about his failure to hide “it” had me laughing to tomorrow. The back-and-forth becomes redundant in a while, but it’s still a fun, light read.
What really does it for me is the way Mackenzie’s conflict is resolved. Many stories usually gloss over its kind, ignore it completely, or make things dramatic and sentimental for that oomph effect, but I feel that this book handles it realistically enough to satisfy. Relationships can’t be fixed overnight, after all: the fixing is a process, and everyone has to start somewhere. You don’t really need a terribly profound epiphany to make that hook. Just look at the similarities in the relationships here and you've got the idea.
Further public notes-to-self: The crazy grandma trope is played just right, thank goodness. I feel bad for Cassandra’s unfortunate love life and hope she finds happiness. I’d have liked an epilogue of some sort, maybe to find out just how many kids it took for Christine to warm up to Mackenzie… :D
The characters aren’t as convincing as I’d have liked, but I enjoyed Mackenzie and Ethan’s witty banter. That softball game photo in the paper and Ethan’s tongue-in-cheek comment about his failure to hide “it” had me laughing to tomorrow. The back-and-forth becomes redundant in a while, but it’s still a fun, light read.
What really does it for me is the way Mackenzie’s conflict is resolved. Many stories usually gloss over its kind, ignore it completely, or make things dramatic and sentimental for that oomph effect, but I feel that this book handles it realistically enough to satisfy. Relationships can’t be fixed overnight, after all: the fixing is a process, and everyone has to start somewhere. You don’t really need a terribly profound epiphany to make that hook. Just look at the similarities in the relationships here and you've got the idea.
Further public notes-to-self: The crazy grandma trope is played just right, thank goodness. I feel bad for Cassandra’s unfortunate love life and hope she finds happiness. I’d have liked an epilogue of some sort, maybe to find out just how many kids it took for Christine to warm up to Mackenzie… :D
April 18, 2014
I'm going to preface this review by saying the only reason I initially read this book was because it was free on iTunes. I knew it wasn't going to be a literary masterpiece. I mean, look at that cover. But for being a free romance novel, I will say that it was a fun, quick read and I actually enjoyed the banter between the main characters. The insults thrown back and forth and the softball game at the beginning were definitely the highlights of the book.
Also, I'm not entirely sure why the description of the book begins with, "Mackenzie Wyatt believes in two things: herself and her plan. And her plan is to keep her head down and to work hard until she can retire. Never mind that she doesn't know what she'll do once she retires– at least she won't be working for the man anymore," because that's not really what the book is about at all. Mackenzie doesn't keep her head down at work-- she's a workaholic and the best saleswoman at the company. She also only talks about retiring when But Mackenzie seems to enjoy her work and enjoys working for "the man."
And last complaint, Some Like It Charming is a terrible title.
Also, I'm not entirely sure why the description of the book begins with, "Mackenzie Wyatt believes in two things: herself and her plan. And her plan is to keep her head down and to work hard until she can retire. Never mind that she doesn't know what she'll do once she retires– at least she won't be working for the man anymore," because that's not really what the book is about at all. Mackenzie doesn't keep her head down at work-- she's a workaholic and the best saleswoman at the company. She also only talks about retiring when But Mackenzie seems to enjoy her work and enjoys working for "the man."
And last complaint, Some Like It Charming is a terrible title.
May 18, 2014
There are three kinds of books. There's the kind I can put down at night. There's the kind I *can't* put down...but where I'm aware of the fact I'm reading up late and feel guilty for every moment that passes, knowing I'll be cranky tomorrow. And then there are the rare books where I don't even notice it's late until I put down the book and check the time. This book falls into the last category.
It's nothing really special --- nothing deep or different about it. But it really works. Plus, there's a con-man (gotta love them!). Definitely worth a read at the free price.
It's nothing really special --- nothing deep or different about it. But it really works. Plus, there's a con-man (gotta love them!). Definitely worth a read at the free price.
July 13, 2020
Nope, nope, nope!!!!!!!!I
DNF, got to 37% and most of that was disgust and rage.
She is his EMPLOYEE!!!!! He abused his position of power and this has been dressed up as 'romance'???
So he jeopardises her job, career and reputation, which subjects her to sexist comments in her workplace, he disrupts her entire life all because he treats women he dates like crap and they sell made up stories??
If they are false, sue them.
He is a spoilt, selfish **** who thinks only of himself, and it is constantly about 'what he needs'.
And then, THEN!!!!! After she agrees to go along with his self-serving crapfest, his family has her changing her appearance because what?! She's not good enough to be seen in public with him now? Not until she looks like all his other ex girlfriends? The ones that are selling false stories about him?
And then, after she repeatedly says no to him, he forces himself on her and kisses her. That is not romantic. That is a man in a position of power taking advantage and sexually assaulting a member of his staff!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Romanticising that idea after all the stories of sexual abuse over the last few years turns my stomach.
And as for the overbearing mother, geees, I think she wants her son for herself. She doesn't mind all the bimbo, gold digging airheads he's dated that are selling all these stories, who apparently were only after his money and status, but has a major problem with a hard-working woman who has been a loyal employee to their company for the last 7 years.
😠
DNF, got to 37% and most of that was disgust and rage.
She is his EMPLOYEE!!!!! He abused his position of power and this has been dressed up as 'romance'???
So he jeopardises her job, career and reputation, which subjects her to sexist comments in her workplace, he disrupts her entire life all because he treats women he dates like crap and they sell made up stories??
If they are false, sue them.
He is a spoilt, selfish **** who thinks only of himself, and it is constantly about 'what he needs'.
And then, THEN!!!!! After she agrees to go along with his self-serving crapfest, his family has her changing her appearance because what?! She's not good enough to be seen in public with him now? Not until she looks like all his other ex girlfriends? The ones that are selling false stories about him?
And then, after she repeatedly says no to him, he forces himself on her and kisses her. That is not romantic. That is a man in a position of power taking advantage and sexually assaulting a member of his staff!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Romanticising that idea after all the stories of sexual abuse over the last few years turns my stomach.
And as for the overbearing mother, geees, I think she wants her son for herself. She doesn't mind all the bimbo, gold digging airheads he's dated that are selling all these stories, who apparently were only after his money and status, but has a major problem with a hard-working woman who has been a loyal employee to their company for the last 7 years.
😠
July 22, 2025
Finished Reading May 1, 2016
Some like it Charming is a Contemporary Romantic Comedy. It made me smile, grin, and laugh out loud. Both Mackenzie and Ethan are strong characters and easy to sink your teeth into. They both love a challenge and they both love to win. So their favorite thing to do is to 'One Up' each other. Loving each other is the furthest thing from their minds.
Just like Mr. Charming, (Ethan), this story will charm and beguile you. Megan Bryce did a fantastic job of creating realistic roles and environment. She took the two most 'Commitment Phobia' personalities in that setting and let the entertainment skyrocket.
Why 4 stars instead of 5?
First, my copy had some editing mistakes and I always take points away for that.
Second is the price. A 180 page read (quickie to me) for $6.99 on Amazon Kindle. It seems a little overpriced. How much is a story that will make you laugh so hard your face and stomach hurts from it worth? Hard to put a price on something that brings that much laughter and amusement into your world.
Purchased from Amazon January 22, 2016
Some like it Charming is a Contemporary Romantic Comedy. It made me smile, grin, and laugh out loud. Both Mackenzie and Ethan are strong characters and easy to sink your teeth into. They both love a challenge and they both love to win. So their favorite thing to do is to 'One Up' each other. Loving each other is the furthest thing from their minds.
Just like Mr. Charming, (Ethan), this story will charm and beguile you. Megan Bryce did a fantastic job of creating realistic roles and environment. She took the two most 'Commitment Phobia' personalities in that setting and let the entertainment skyrocket.
Why 4 stars instead of 5?
First, my copy had some editing mistakes and I always take points away for that.
Second is the price. A 180 page read (quickie to me) for $6.99 on Amazon Kindle. It seems a little overpriced. How much is a story that will make you laugh so hard your face and stomach hurts from it worth? Hard to put a price on something that brings that much laughter and amusement into your world.
Purchased from Amazon January 22, 2016
November 10, 2015
What can I say? It was free on iTunes so I downloaded it as I do bunches of free books. I started reading it beacuese I had no internet at the moment and I was surprised I was liking it so much. I actually liked the Mackenzie, which is to say lot for I normally hate the women in the books. Anyway, I just love angst between the main characters and this book was providing it but then it kind of fell. There were lots of details starting with the title, cover and description, but it was entertaining though .
December 22, 2014
I liked this one more than I thought I would.
It was (almost) angst and drama free, very cute and funny at times.
A quick and nice read.
It was (almost) angst and drama free, very cute and funny at times.
A quick and nice read.
Want to read
October 3, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (10/3/2019)! 🎁
June 28, 2020
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ The Man - McKenzie Wyatt ( don’t get it wrong this is the heroine name’s )
A book which give courage for women to be “ the man “ to approach any goals in their life
Grab the chance and don’t doubt for a while to take leads
Just think of Taylor Swift song “ The Man “
This book have this vibe in positive way
But why didn’t I give it 4 or perfect 5 stars
Somehow I find the half of book pretty annoying where the connections just begin to built up between the h & H
A book which give courage for women to be “ the man “ to approach any goals in their life
Grab the chance and don’t doubt for a while to take leads
Just think of Taylor Swift song “ The Man “
This book have this vibe in positive way
But why didn’t I give it 4 or perfect 5 stars
Somehow I find the half of book pretty annoying where the connections just begin to built up between the h & H
January 30, 2019
I really love the banter between Mackenzie and Ethan.
Hate to lover and pretend lover at its finest 😍😍😍😂
Hate to lover and pretend lover at its finest 😍😍😍😂
December 27, 2018
This was an incredibly entertaining rom com. Ethan, our hero is too... everything. He's too good looking, too rich, and too charming. Everyone loves him and everyone wants a piece of him. Fortunately, the one thing he's not too, is egotistical. He doesn't want EVERYONE to love him, he just wants the right someone to love him. And that someone is Mackenzie. She's immune to his charm, likes earning her money, and...ok, she finds him attractive, but.
So, if you're in the mood for a well written, if light, rom com, give this one a shot!
So, if you're in the mood for a well written, if light, rom com, give this one a shot!
February 7, 2016
2.5 stars. This one annoyed me.
The general premise was really good - I mean, a rich guy needs a fake fiancée so that he can live his life and not have women throw themselves at him. Okay, all fine and dandy there, I can dig it. I will even, on occasion, if executed well, enjoy it.
I'm on the fence about enjoying this one.
Yes, separately, Mackenzie and Ethan were actually really good characters - but when they came together, I didn't know who to smack more. Obviously, it's apparent from the start that Mackenzie actually likes Ethan and is just playing hard to get. As she's doing the exact opposite of what he's used to, he wants to chase her, and in the end gets her. That's fine.
But I would have really, really liked an actual book where the woman honestly DOESN'T want the rich guy, and some more examples as to how, precisely, they fall in love and he wins her over. I've read a few of those, and they worked fine. Here ... here, I was just so annoyed because Mackenzie obviously just couldn't admit the truth, she was bitchy and irritating and I wanted to slap Ethan about half the times when she threw herself at him. Not to mention, a lesson to guys everywhere: if she says she doesn't want to meet someone from her past, even if it is her father, please don't buy a plane ticket with the best intentions. There were SO many things Ethan practically bullied Mackenzie into and she just GAVE IN. I think I'm angry because she kept saying how she shouldn't be doing that.
Well, simple: DON'T.
The general premise was really good - I mean, a rich guy needs a fake fiancée so that he can live his life and not have women throw themselves at him. Okay, all fine and dandy there, I can dig it. I will even, on occasion, if executed well, enjoy it.
I'm on the fence about enjoying this one.
Yes, separately, Mackenzie and Ethan were actually really good characters - but when they came together, I didn't know who to smack more. Obviously, it's apparent from the start that Mackenzie actually likes Ethan and is just playing hard to get. As she's doing the exact opposite of what he's used to, he wants to chase her, and in the end gets her. That's fine.
But I would have really, really liked an actual book where the woman honestly DOESN'T want the rich guy, and some more examples as to how, precisely, they fall in love and he wins her over. I've read a few of those, and they worked fine. Here ... here, I was just so annoyed because Mackenzie obviously just couldn't admit the truth, she was bitchy and irritating and I wanted to slap Ethan about half the times when she threw herself at him. Not to mention, a lesson to guys everywhere: if she says she doesn't want to meet someone from her past, even if it is her father, please don't buy a plane ticket with the best intentions. There were SO many things Ethan practically bullied Mackenzie into and she just GAVE IN. I think I'm angry because she kept saying how she shouldn't be doing that.
Well, simple: DON'T.
July 1, 2021
***4.5 Stars***
I have to admit that I love the Temporary Engagement/Temporary Fiancee/Temporary Arrangement type books and I find them endearing. This is a very sweet story and I enjoyed it thoroughly.
This story is about a very wealthy business owner, Ethan, who is finding himself in the press much too often these days as ex-girlfriends come out of the woodwork to sell their stories about their relationships with him without any truth involved. He's being accused of many awful things he has never done and the exes are doing a good job of making the lies sound like actual facts. It's weighing heavy on his mind and conscience.
With his image faltering, he decides that a fake engagement just might be the answer to help clear up his public image. Of all the women he knows, he chooses the one woman who has never fallen for him and acts as though she has zero interest. Ethan is drawn to her and has been for years but has failed to actually realize that he feels this way. She guards her heart because of past issues and only has one girlfriend that she hangs with so she is a professional loner. They are oil and water which makes it that much more interesting. She puts up a tough front because she knows if she's not careful she could end up discarded and broken-hearted by the one man she could fall for. She's already been destroyed by the top man in her life, her father, and she never wants to go through that pain again.
It is a fun ride and I definitely recommend this book.
I have to admit that I love the Temporary Engagement/Temporary Fiancee/Temporary Arrangement type books and I find them endearing. This is a very sweet story and I enjoyed it thoroughly.
This story is about a very wealthy business owner, Ethan, who is finding himself in the press much too often these days as ex-girlfriends come out of the woodwork to sell their stories about their relationships with him without any truth involved. He's being accused of many awful things he has never done and the exes are doing a good job of making the lies sound like actual facts. It's weighing heavy on his mind and conscience.
With his image faltering, he decides that a fake engagement just might be the answer to help clear up his public image. Of all the women he knows, he chooses the one woman who has never fallen for him and acts as though she has zero interest. Ethan is drawn to her and has been for years but has failed to actually realize that he feels this way. She guards her heart because of past issues and only has one girlfriend that she hangs with so she is a professional loner. They are oil and water which makes it that much more interesting. She puts up a tough front because she knows if she's not careful she could end up discarded and broken-hearted by the one man she could fall for. She's already been destroyed by the top man in her life, her father, and she never wants to go through that pain again.
It is a fun ride and I definitely recommend this book.
May 1, 2014
This had lots of potential. I really liked the story but could not connect. The writing left me sometimes confused. it started out good. I was really liking it up through the softball game but then it lost the heat. I could not feel any chemistry between Ethan and Mackenzie. I think there was too much left to the imagination. It seemed like the author could not decide whether to keep the book clean or not so it did not succeed at creating any passion (clean or otherwise).
It started of good but quickly went down hill. i really wanted to hopeful connect with characters. I don't recommend it and won't be reading it again.
It started of good but quickly went down hill. i really wanted to hopeful connect with characters. I don't recommend it and won't be reading it again.
May 8, 2014
A quick fun read. I really enjoyed the verbal sparring between the two characters, and although the ending was obvious, right from the start, this was light, frothy and readable, as well as relaxing.
January 25, 2016
I'm not a fan of contemporary romances in general. This one is also not very good and has sexual harassment all over it.
July 18, 2019
This first pages of this book drew me right in! I immediately began thinking 5-star romantic comedy, another office romance right up there with “The Hating Game.” The hero and heroine had great banter that was witty and sarcastic. The imbalance of power didn't make me uncomfortable like some office romance stories do. They aren’t equals in the company (He’s the boss or CEO), but she’s high enough that she didn’t feel threatened by him and didn’t take any sh@t from him.
Then, they went to a park for the company picnic. Once the softball game began, the story started to spiral for me. It didn’t crash, but I never again reached the high I felt at the beginning of the book.
What happened you might be asking? Blatant sexual harassment! He wraps his arms around her and lifts her off the ground. He dusts her off after she slides into home base. What really raised my feminist ire was when he playfully patted her on the butt. No, sir! Not ok! He did this in full view of their co-workers, including the legal department. His mother and grandmother were also there. I found it hard to believe any CEO would behave like this in front of his employees. They weren’t dating. In fact, it was well-known that they had a somewhat hostile relationship.
When photos of their interactions at the company picnic appear in the tabloids, he abruptly announces they’re engaged in a press conference. I wasn’t in the mood for another fake fiancée story where the heroine gets a “Pretty Woman” makeover/shopping spree and moves in with the wealthy hero.
The romance kind of appeared out of nowhere. I expected a better segue from hostility to attraction. The closed bedroom scenes were tolerable, but the story needed more sexual tension. Final thought- The title of this book is "Some Like It Charming." He was not charming. He was attractive, spoiled, and self-serving.
Then, they went to a park for the company picnic. Once the softball game began, the story started to spiral for me. It didn’t crash, but I never again reached the high I felt at the beginning of the book.
What happened you might be asking? Blatant sexual harassment! He wraps his arms around her and lifts her off the ground. He dusts her off after she slides into home base. What really raised my feminist ire was when he playfully patted her on the butt. No, sir! Not ok! He did this in full view of their co-workers, including the legal department. His mother and grandmother were also there. I found it hard to believe any CEO would behave like this in front of his employees. They weren’t dating. In fact, it was well-known that they had a somewhat hostile relationship.
When photos of their interactions at the company picnic appear in the tabloids, he abruptly announces they’re engaged in a press conference. I wasn’t in the mood for another fake fiancée story where the heroine gets a “Pretty Woman” makeover/shopping spree and moves in with the wealthy hero.
The romance kind of appeared out of nowhere. I expected a better segue from hostility to attraction. The closed bedroom scenes were tolerable, but the story needed more sexual tension. Final thought- The title of this book is "Some Like It Charming." He was not charming. He was attractive, spoiled, and self-serving.
March 9, 2023
2.5⭐️
Cute quick slow burn with minimal smut and no detail, I liked that it was left to the readers imagination. None of the usually cringe-worthy descriptions of body parts.
Mackenzie Wyatt has been working for Ethan Howell O’Connor for 7 years. She’s his best sales rep and doesn’t fall to her knees at his charm like everyone else. After another bad breakup and harsh press aimed at Ethan, he decides Mackenzie is the perfect person to fake a relationship with to ease off the tabloids
After wearing her down and coming to a deal, they travel to New York to spend 6 weeks “engaged”. but as close proximity and undeniable sparks wear them both down, Ethan finds himself falling in love for the first time. Mackenzie is stubborn but in the end they make the right decision to be happy, together
Really quick read, not something I would usually read as it was very PG but I enjoyed it nonetheless
Cute quick slow burn with minimal smut and no detail, I liked that it was left to the readers imagination. None of the usually cringe-worthy descriptions of body parts.
Mackenzie Wyatt has been working for Ethan Howell O’Connor for 7 years. She’s his best sales rep and doesn’t fall to her knees at his charm like everyone else. After another bad breakup and harsh press aimed at Ethan, he decides Mackenzie is the perfect person to fake a relationship with to ease off the tabloids
After wearing her down and coming to a deal, they travel to New York to spend 6 weeks “engaged”. but as close proximity and undeniable sparks wear them both down, Ethan finds himself falling in love for the first time. Mackenzie is stubborn but in the end they make the right decision to be happy, together
Really quick read, not something I would usually read as it was very PG but I enjoyed it nonetheless
October 3, 2019
Rating: R for sex and language
Sex: 1 scene, many implied scenes
Language: 3 F words, 35 Lord's name in vain
Violence: none
HEA or Cliffhanger: HEA
Do I need to read books before this one: yes
Would I read more of the series: yes
Delightfully funny! They are so snarky with each other. She hides chocolate for him. And who knew Spanx had so many uses?
----SPOILERS----
Mackenzie Wyatt works in the LA office, Ethan O'Connor runs O'Connor Capital from the NY office. Everyone else thinks he's charming. He comes to visit, sits at her desk, looks for candy. “To what do I owe this visit? I’ll make a note to stop whatever it is.” To celebrate her huge sale, he's planned a company picnic and softball for Friday. “Oh, Mackenzie. I know you’ll only play for me when money’s involved. I signed you up for the other team.” He threatens again to fire her, but she makes the most money for his company. Have Snickers next time.
Ethan had a messy break up. His mom, Christine, and grandma, Ellen, show up at his hotel the next morning with a tabloid where the girl spills all. Next day, another ex spills. Another claims he broke her nose with his fist. Mackenzie knows he doesn't hit. She's made him very very angry, and he just ups the ooze when he's angry.
He's catcher, she's third baseman. “Why am I not surprised you’re on third.” “I guess it’s the same reason I wasn’t surprised you were catcher.” “Each to his own strengths. I like to play with people’s minds, you like to play with people’s balls.” He laughs so hard at his faux pas that the game has to stop. He hugs her, takes her to the pitcher's mound, and announces he meant that she likes to be in on all the plays, which means third base. “I’m charging you a thousand dollars every time someone says balls to me in the next month. And you’d better pay me out of your own pocket, not the company’s.”
The following Thursday, no one's joking about balls. He's at her desk with the National Enquirer. One side of page 1 says He made me abort his baby, the other shows a picture of the two of them face to face. They were arguing at the time at baseball, but it looks like they're about to go to bed. And then there's the picture of his erection and her pebbled nipples. And arrow to make sure readers notice. He admits his was real. He asks her for chocolate because he can't find any. Ethan says, “I’ve just had a brilliant idea.” “I seriously doubt that. It’s just the sugar rush, it’ll go away.” He gives her a quick peck and leaves.
At an afternoon press conference that day, he addresses all the tabloids, then announces Mackenzie is his fiancée: "when even the Enquirer can see the passion between us, it’s time to throw in the towel.” Mackenzie is livid, Christine is lying down, and Ellen says about time.
Paparazzi are all over her house. She doesn't have a cell phone. She gets his number from Ellen, call him, and he says come to my room for dinner and we'll hammer out a negotiation. Besides, you want to yell at me some more. He calls only her honey. “Honey comes from bees and bees have stingers. No one has a bigger stinger than you….It makes me laugh. And you don’t like it, which makes it even better.”
They negotiate a fake engagement contract. He tries to give her 3% of his company shares, no. He gives her a temporary ring with a diamond the size of a sugar cube. He also gives her a cell phone.
Ellen and Christine take her shopping. She ends up blonde and in a tight little dress. He picks her up in a limo to go to dinner so the paparazzi are happy and leave her alone. He says smile or kiss, she can't find a smile, the kiss explodes; thankfully, she's wearing a modern chastity belt (Spanx). “Okay, forget the smile. Looking dazed and ruffled will work just fine.”
She and Cassandra still can't get to her house because of paparazzi. “So, what’s the plan?” “Run them all over?” “Could work, but then you’d go to jail. You probably would have to give Mr. O’Connor his million back for nonperformance.” They go through the neighbor's backyard, Mackenzie gets over the fence, and runs into her back door. She lets Cassandra in the front door. "You’re going to have to find out what cologne he was wearing last night so I can spray some on my pillow. It made my insides go all mushy and my dreams go naughty." In the pictures from last night, "He looked disheveled and she knew she’d been the one to do that to him. He’d made her lose her mind last night, the rat bastard."
They move to New York. Someone leaked $1M for a wife; never find culprit. She tells him she has a secret stash of chocolate in the apartment (she doesn't) to lift his spirits. He searches her suite. Maybe her baggy pants. Tosses her on the bed. Barely stops because of period (she doesn't tell him it's over). He leaves to buy chocolate. She's going to make a stash in case the tabloids don't ease up.
Why aren't you wearing ring? It's too big, catches on pockets. He has to agree. He holds her hand on the subway, then the rest of the day. Ellen and Christine meet them at jewelry store, Christine calls a consultant who keeps putting her bosom in Ethan's face. That night, he kisses her, she says okay, and she's wearing Spanx! He gets scissors. He also rips shirt off (threatened muumuu earlier). They have fun making love.
Ethan doesn't make it to work the next day. Chocolate all over Mackenzie's bed. She's immune to charm because of a man 10y ago. Family dinner is a disaster because Christine sees immediately that they've had sex. She calls one of his exes to join them. Ethan says later in bed that he likes and loves that woman but couldn't make the final commitment. He confesses he likes her.
With only 2 weeks left, she has pajama day. She agrees to dampen snark if he reduces charm. She's been hiding chocolate everywhere. The office wants to meet her, best salesperson/fiancée/#1 pain.
Her father, Jake Holden, comes to visit. She says not to let him up. He a con man, hasn't seen him in 10 years. “He’s handsome and charming. And can make anybody, man or woman, think they are the most important person in the world. He did it to my mother, left her pregnant with me. Did it to me when I tracked him down….I learned at his feet. Trained at his compound every year to see who wanted what we were selling, how much they wanted it. I used everything I had to wring every last penny from them.” She asks Ethan to take her shopping.
She needs a break from salespeople. She goes to get coffee, her dad is there. New wife, daughter. She's actually good for him. He asks if she's playing Ethan, marrying him for his money. She says you know nothing about it, and now he wonders if the roles are reversed. Ethan shows up as white knight, dad wonders who's running this thing. When you get things sorted out, come meet my wife and your sister. “Too much of me and not enough of your mother. I did too good a job.” “My mother was a beautiful mark. You never wanted me to be like her.” “No. And I still don’t. But she would have forgiven me, and you won’t.” He looked at Ethan. “You know what I’ll do if you’re playing her.” Mackenzie snorted. “You should have threatened yourself.” He turned to her, his eyes suddenly cold and hard. “I should have. But I was too stupid then. So I will threaten him….Your deepest, darkest fears will become reality. I might even talk her into helping if she finds she’s fallen to another con man.” Ethan didn’t falter under her father’s gaze. “She hasn’t.”
They go home, he holds her while she cries. Warn Christine and Ellen. “I was with him, on his compound. And my mother died….I didn’t find out until months later. He never told me. Not when she was sick, not when she died, not when they held her funeral.” Maternal grandparents never forgave her. Ethan asks how good she is, could she get him? Yeah, she knows what he wants and what he's willing to give for it.
A few days later, Ethan goes to the gym. McKenzie's been closed off, wary since her dad. He goes to the punching bag, imagining Jack's face. Ethan "loved everyone. Loved people’s foibles, their idiosyncrasies. Loved brightening their day, getting them to step outside themselves for just one minute. He loved giving people a reason to remember that one moment in that one day because most days were lost. Unremembered. Unworthy of being remembered. And Mackenzie wasn’t wrong that usually those people then gave him whatever he wanted. He prided himself that what he wanted wasn’t harmful. He wasn’t like her father, dammit." He takes off his gloves, remembers the tabloids, and punches the mirror. He's thinking he couldn't leave well enough alone and not be a couple with Mackenzie. "He hadn’t gotten under Mackenzie’s skin. She wasn’t the one whose favorite part of the day was walking through the door after work. Who made notes about funny things that happened when they weren’t together. She wasn’t the one who planned activities just to see him smile. Who couldn’t imagine life now without him. Laughing, competing, fighting, loving. Mackenzie wasn’t going to be the one broken and crying when he left." She'd fly home after making a snarky comment about the half million, "start her new boring life. Without ever crying over him. Without ever realizing that he was at home, wandering around his now lifeless apartment lost and alone because she’d left him. Because he’d loved her and she’d left him."
Christina visits Mackenzie, offers her money to leave. He offered me a million for 6 weeks; I'll be gone in 10 days. Christine starts to sneer, and Mackenzie says he offered me 3% of the company. Christine thinks Ethan needs someone who will put him first and forgive him when he "falters." Mackenzie says he never falters, but you're right, if he ever hurt me, I'd leave him bleeding. But he could only hurt me if we loved each other. Is sleeping with Ethan what the million dollars is for? Christine thinks Mackenzie is a liar, but who is lying to? Ethan, Christine, or herself?
When Ethan gets home, Mackenzie is raging about Christine's insinuation that she is a prostitute. That's not what I'm paying you for, in fact you should be paying me. I've had better. No. How do you know? “Because I’ve never had better. And I’ve had more experience than you.” “Maybe it’s just me. Maybe it’s always like that for whoever I’m with.” The thought made him a little light-headed. “Is it?” She didn’t answer him and he started breathing again.
She sees his hurt hand. "You’re a lover, not a fighter.” “Was that an insult?” “No. It was…the truth. You wouldn’t ever hit anybody. I didn’t even think you would imagine hitting somebody.” He smiled coldly. Remembering how he’d imagined beating her father’s face into a pulp.
Your mom thinks I'm a money-grubbing whore. She's worried about me. I told her I'd leave you bleeding on the floor. Why would you do that? “If you faltered.” Mackenzie laughed. “If this was real, you and me, and you cheated on me. If I loved you and you betrayed me.” “I wouldn’t.” And he realized, he really wouldn’t. “That’s what I told her. I don’t think she needs to worry about it. But she thinks you need a woman who would forgive you, just in case.” He turned around and looked at her. “You told my mother I would never cheat on you?” Mackenzie said, “Not me. But, you know…the one.” "...you break things off when you start feeling the itch. Because you know it hurts less and for a shorter amount of time to break things off cleanly.” “Maybe that’s why I was afraid of marriage. Afraid to find my devotion fading without being able to get out of it.” That's when he realizes she's the one. He asks her to stay, that she can spend a million dollars as easily in New York as in LA, she can come to the office. She accuses him of trying to love her to death into staying. And dang it, he likes a challenge.
She wakes up, goes into the bathroom, and hurts. Because of how he looks at her. "This is what he’d paid her a million dollars for. To look into his eyes, to see love there, and to not believe it. To protect both of them. Because he couldn’t help it and he couldn’t stand to hurt anyone else." She'd fallen for him.
10 days later, she leaves. Without saying goodbye. If she stayed, then she'd really be living with him, really be in love with him, and when he left, she'd be totally broken, worse than what her father did to her, and she doesn't want to be a bitter woman.
The phone is ringing when she gets home. What did I forget? You're fired. As of this morning I didn't work for you, as of last night I was no longer your fiancé; there's nothing left. He blows up, she hangs up, cries, and starts packing her house.
Ethan goes to see Ellen. She says you have to figure out what she needs. She already loves you.
He goes to her house in LA. “But you don’t want [half my company]. Because you don’t believe [I love you]. And won’t ever let yourself love me if you don’t believe it first.” He gives her ticket to go see her dad. “He won’t trick you again. You’re not a green kid anymore. And you can tell when someone really loves you.” Her eyes widened. He said, “But you deserve to see if he’ll choose you this time. I think you need that.”
She's crying into ice cream when Cassandra comes over. The problem? He's handsome, rich, charming, and you love him and he loves you. "...when there’s a chance at finding the real deal, you have to grab for it. You have to walk to the end of the pier and jump off, knowing full well that you may end up broken on the rocks below. That’s a life well lived. Ending up broken on the rocks because you tried. Not still standing on the pier, afraid." “I’ve crawled off those rocks before. I don’t think I can do it again.” “You won’t have to. He’ll catch you.” “And if he doesn’t?” “I will pick you up, dust you off, and help you beat his beautiful face to smithereens.”
She visits her father. Maybe they can't be father daughter, but they can be a different kind of family. She doesn't see love in his eyes, but she does see regret.
She flies to New York. Ethan's not home, but Ellen's at hers. She gives Mackenzie the name and phone number of a reporter. She tells the reporter yes, $1M because any woman would need to be bribed to marry him. Prenup will include a no-cheating clause or cutting off his balls. Reporter says you're not worried about commitment? She says he's a one woman man. Not a forever man. He just hadn't met the woman that scares him enough.
Ellen's pleased, gives her the address of a lake house in Vermont. She shows Ethan the tabloid. He's concerned about the balls clause. “I don’t like your money–you have too much of it. I don’t like your fame–your life will always be a circus. I don’t like your pretty face–women will always be throwing themselves at you. I don’t like your name–it’s a legacy to live up to. I don’t like your charm–you use it as a weapon. I don’t like your mother–she doesn’t like me.” “Was that your declaration of love? It needs some work.” “But I love you anyway. I want you despite all that.” “Are you saying none of that little stuff matters?” She whispered, “Yes.” And it didn’t. It was just little stuff.
She's picking her own ring. And his, or he can have a tattoo on his forehead that says Taken. She wants two children, he wants six. He thinks Christine will start liking her at #4, #5 should clinch it, but they should go for 6 just in case. He'll get her grandparents to come to the wedding. He's giving her half the company, what's she giving him? Has to be painful. Childbirth x6! Ethan wants her to love his mother like her own and she can live with them.
Their firstborn is a son, Wyatt. "Ethan O’Connor also says he can’t wait for a daughter to join their happily growing family. Mackenzie O’Connor could not be reached for a comment but this reporter did notice that Ethan O’Connor lost his breath rather abruptly after bringing up the subject of a second child."
Sex: 1 scene, many implied scenes
Language: 3 F words, 35 Lord's name in vain
Violence: none
HEA or Cliffhanger: HEA
Do I need to read books before this one: yes
Would I read more of the series: yes
Delightfully funny! They are so snarky with each other. She hides chocolate for him. And who knew Spanx had so many uses?
----SPOILERS----
Mackenzie Wyatt works in the LA office, Ethan O'Connor runs O'Connor Capital from the NY office. Everyone else thinks he's charming. He comes to visit, sits at her desk, looks for candy. “To what do I owe this visit? I’ll make a note to stop whatever it is.” To celebrate her huge sale, he's planned a company picnic and softball for Friday. “Oh, Mackenzie. I know you’ll only play for me when money’s involved. I signed you up for the other team.” He threatens again to fire her, but she makes the most money for his company. Have Snickers next time.
Ethan had a messy break up. His mom, Christine, and grandma, Ellen, show up at his hotel the next morning with a tabloid where the girl spills all. Next day, another ex spills. Another claims he broke her nose with his fist. Mackenzie knows he doesn't hit. She's made him very very angry, and he just ups the ooze when he's angry.
He's catcher, she's third baseman. “Why am I not surprised you’re on third.” “I guess it’s the same reason I wasn’t surprised you were catcher.” “Each to his own strengths. I like to play with people’s minds, you like to play with people’s balls.” He laughs so hard at his faux pas that the game has to stop. He hugs her, takes her to the pitcher's mound, and announces he meant that she likes to be in on all the plays, which means third base. “I’m charging you a thousand dollars every time someone says balls to me in the next month. And you’d better pay me out of your own pocket, not the company’s.”
The following Thursday, no one's joking about balls. He's at her desk with the National Enquirer. One side of page 1 says He made me abort his baby, the other shows a picture of the two of them face to face. They were arguing at the time at baseball, but it looks like they're about to go to bed. And then there's the picture of his erection and her pebbled nipples. And arrow to make sure readers notice. He admits his was real. He asks her for chocolate because he can't find any. Ethan says, “I’ve just had a brilliant idea.” “I seriously doubt that. It’s just the sugar rush, it’ll go away.” He gives her a quick peck and leaves.
At an afternoon press conference that day, he addresses all the tabloids, then announces Mackenzie is his fiancée: "when even the Enquirer can see the passion between us, it’s time to throw in the towel.” Mackenzie is livid, Christine is lying down, and Ellen says about time.
Paparazzi are all over her house. She doesn't have a cell phone. She gets his number from Ellen, call him, and he says come to my room for dinner and we'll hammer out a negotiation. Besides, you want to yell at me some more. He calls only her honey. “Honey comes from bees and bees have stingers. No one has a bigger stinger than you….It makes me laugh. And you don’t like it, which makes it even better.”
They negotiate a fake engagement contract. He tries to give her 3% of his company shares, no. He gives her a temporary ring with a diamond the size of a sugar cube. He also gives her a cell phone.
Ellen and Christine take her shopping. She ends up blonde and in a tight little dress. He picks her up in a limo to go to dinner so the paparazzi are happy and leave her alone. He says smile or kiss, she can't find a smile, the kiss explodes; thankfully, she's wearing a modern chastity belt (Spanx). “Okay, forget the smile. Looking dazed and ruffled will work just fine.”
She and Cassandra still can't get to her house because of paparazzi. “So, what’s the plan?” “Run them all over?” “Could work, but then you’d go to jail. You probably would have to give Mr. O’Connor his million back for nonperformance.” They go through the neighbor's backyard, Mackenzie gets over the fence, and runs into her back door. She lets Cassandra in the front door. "You’re going to have to find out what cologne he was wearing last night so I can spray some on my pillow. It made my insides go all mushy and my dreams go naughty." In the pictures from last night, "He looked disheveled and she knew she’d been the one to do that to him. He’d made her lose her mind last night, the rat bastard."
They move to New York. Someone leaked $1M for a wife; never find culprit. She tells him she has a secret stash of chocolate in the apartment (she doesn't) to lift his spirits. He searches her suite. Maybe her baggy pants. Tosses her on the bed. Barely stops because of period (she doesn't tell him it's over). He leaves to buy chocolate. She's going to make a stash in case the tabloids don't ease up.
Why aren't you wearing ring? It's too big, catches on pockets. He has to agree. He holds her hand on the subway, then the rest of the day. Ellen and Christine meet them at jewelry store, Christine calls a consultant who keeps putting her bosom in Ethan's face. That night, he kisses her, she says okay, and she's wearing Spanx! He gets scissors. He also rips shirt off (threatened muumuu earlier). They have fun making love.
Ethan doesn't make it to work the next day. Chocolate all over Mackenzie's bed. She's immune to charm because of a man 10y ago. Family dinner is a disaster because Christine sees immediately that they've had sex. She calls one of his exes to join them. Ethan says later in bed that he likes and loves that woman but couldn't make the final commitment. He confesses he likes her.
With only 2 weeks left, she has pajama day. She agrees to dampen snark if he reduces charm. She's been hiding chocolate everywhere. The office wants to meet her, best salesperson/fiancée/#1 pain.
Her father, Jake Holden, comes to visit. She says not to let him up. He a con man, hasn't seen him in 10 years. “He’s handsome and charming. And can make anybody, man or woman, think they are the most important person in the world. He did it to my mother, left her pregnant with me. Did it to me when I tracked him down….I learned at his feet. Trained at his compound every year to see who wanted what we were selling, how much they wanted it. I used everything I had to wring every last penny from them.” She asks Ethan to take her shopping.
She needs a break from salespeople. She goes to get coffee, her dad is there. New wife, daughter. She's actually good for him. He asks if she's playing Ethan, marrying him for his money. She says you know nothing about it, and now he wonders if the roles are reversed. Ethan shows up as white knight, dad wonders who's running this thing. When you get things sorted out, come meet my wife and your sister. “Too much of me and not enough of your mother. I did too good a job.” “My mother was a beautiful mark. You never wanted me to be like her.” “No. And I still don’t. But she would have forgiven me, and you won’t.” He looked at Ethan. “You know what I’ll do if you’re playing her.” Mackenzie snorted. “You should have threatened yourself.” He turned to her, his eyes suddenly cold and hard. “I should have. But I was too stupid then. So I will threaten him….Your deepest, darkest fears will become reality. I might even talk her into helping if she finds she’s fallen to another con man.” Ethan didn’t falter under her father’s gaze. “She hasn’t.”
They go home, he holds her while she cries. Warn Christine and Ellen. “I was with him, on his compound. And my mother died….I didn’t find out until months later. He never told me. Not when she was sick, not when she died, not when they held her funeral.” Maternal grandparents never forgave her. Ethan asks how good she is, could she get him? Yeah, she knows what he wants and what he's willing to give for it.
A few days later, Ethan goes to the gym. McKenzie's been closed off, wary since her dad. He goes to the punching bag, imagining Jack's face. Ethan "loved everyone. Loved people’s foibles, their idiosyncrasies. Loved brightening their day, getting them to step outside themselves for just one minute. He loved giving people a reason to remember that one moment in that one day because most days were lost. Unremembered. Unworthy of being remembered. And Mackenzie wasn’t wrong that usually those people then gave him whatever he wanted. He prided himself that what he wanted wasn’t harmful. He wasn’t like her father, dammit." He takes off his gloves, remembers the tabloids, and punches the mirror. He's thinking he couldn't leave well enough alone and not be a couple with Mackenzie. "He hadn’t gotten under Mackenzie’s skin. She wasn’t the one whose favorite part of the day was walking through the door after work. Who made notes about funny things that happened when they weren’t together. She wasn’t the one who planned activities just to see him smile. Who couldn’t imagine life now without him. Laughing, competing, fighting, loving. Mackenzie wasn’t going to be the one broken and crying when he left." She'd fly home after making a snarky comment about the half million, "start her new boring life. Without ever crying over him. Without ever realizing that he was at home, wandering around his now lifeless apartment lost and alone because she’d left him. Because he’d loved her and she’d left him."
Christina visits Mackenzie, offers her money to leave. He offered me a million for 6 weeks; I'll be gone in 10 days. Christine starts to sneer, and Mackenzie says he offered me 3% of the company. Christine thinks Ethan needs someone who will put him first and forgive him when he "falters." Mackenzie says he never falters, but you're right, if he ever hurt me, I'd leave him bleeding. But he could only hurt me if we loved each other. Is sleeping with Ethan what the million dollars is for? Christine thinks Mackenzie is a liar, but who is lying to? Ethan, Christine, or herself?
When Ethan gets home, Mackenzie is raging about Christine's insinuation that she is a prostitute. That's not what I'm paying you for, in fact you should be paying me. I've had better. No. How do you know? “Because I’ve never had better. And I’ve had more experience than you.” “Maybe it’s just me. Maybe it’s always like that for whoever I’m with.” The thought made him a little light-headed. “Is it?” She didn’t answer him and he started breathing again.
She sees his hurt hand. "You’re a lover, not a fighter.” “Was that an insult?” “No. It was…the truth. You wouldn’t ever hit anybody. I didn’t even think you would imagine hitting somebody.” He smiled coldly. Remembering how he’d imagined beating her father’s face into a pulp.
Your mom thinks I'm a money-grubbing whore. She's worried about me. I told her I'd leave you bleeding on the floor. Why would you do that? “If you faltered.” Mackenzie laughed. “If this was real, you and me, and you cheated on me. If I loved you and you betrayed me.” “I wouldn’t.” And he realized, he really wouldn’t. “That’s what I told her. I don’t think she needs to worry about it. But she thinks you need a woman who would forgive you, just in case.” He turned around and looked at her. “You told my mother I would never cheat on you?” Mackenzie said, “Not me. But, you know…the one.” "...you break things off when you start feeling the itch. Because you know it hurts less and for a shorter amount of time to break things off cleanly.” “Maybe that’s why I was afraid of marriage. Afraid to find my devotion fading without being able to get out of it.” That's when he realizes she's the one. He asks her to stay, that she can spend a million dollars as easily in New York as in LA, she can come to the office. She accuses him of trying to love her to death into staying. And dang it, he likes a challenge.
She wakes up, goes into the bathroom, and hurts. Because of how he looks at her. "This is what he’d paid her a million dollars for. To look into his eyes, to see love there, and to not believe it. To protect both of them. Because he couldn’t help it and he couldn’t stand to hurt anyone else." She'd fallen for him.
10 days later, she leaves. Without saying goodbye. If she stayed, then she'd really be living with him, really be in love with him, and when he left, she'd be totally broken, worse than what her father did to her, and she doesn't want to be a bitter woman.
The phone is ringing when she gets home. What did I forget? You're fired. As of this morning I didn't work for you, as of last night I was no longer your fiancé; there's nothing left. He blows up, she hangs up, cries, and starts packing her house.
Ethan goes to see Ellen. She says you have to figure out what she needs. She already loves you.
He goes to her house in LA. “But you don’t want [half my company]. Because you don’t believe [I love you]. And won’t ever let yourself love me if you don’t believe it first.” He gives her ticket to go see her dad. “He won’t trick you again. You’re not a green kid anymore. And you can tell when someone really loves you.” Her eyes widened. He said, “But you deserve to see if he’ll choose you this time. I think you need that.”
She's crying into ice cream when Cassandra comes over. The problem? He's handsome, rich, charming, and you love him and he loves you. "...when there’s a chance at finding the real deal, you have to grab for it. You have to walk to the end of the pier and jump off, knowing full well that you may end up broken on the rocks below. That’s a life well lived. Ending up broken on the rocks because you tried. Not still standing on the pier, afraid." “I’ve crawled off those rocks before. I don’t think I can do it again.” “You won’t have to. He’ll catch you.” “And if he doesn’t?” “I will pick you up, dust you off, and help you beat his beautiful face to smithereens.”
She visits her father. Maybe they can't be father daughter, but they can be a different kind of family. She doesn't see love in his eyes, but she does see regret.
She flies to New York. Ethan's not home, but Ellen's at hers. She gives Mackenzie the name and phone number of a reporter. She tells the reporter yes, $1M because any woman would need to be bribed to marry him. Prenup will include a no-cheating clause or cutting off his balls. Reporter says you're not worried about commitment? She says he's a one woman man. Not a forever man. He just hadn't met the woman that scares him enough.
Ellen's pleased, gives her the address of a lake house in Vermont. She shows Ethan the tabloid. He's concerned about the balls clause. “I don’t like your money–you have too much of it. I don’t like your fame–your life will always be a circus. I don’t like your pretty face–women will always be throwing themselves at you. I don’t like your name–it’s a legacy to live up to. I don’t like your charm–you use it as a weapon. I don’t like your mother–she doesn’t like me.” “Was that your declaration of love? It needs some work.” “But I love you anyway. I want you despite all that.” “Are you saying none of that little stuff matters?” She whispered, “Yes.” And it didn’t. It was just little stuff.
She's picking her own ring. And his, or he can have a tattoo on his forehead that says Taken. She wants two children, he wants six. He thinks Christine will start liking her at #4, #5 should clinch it, but they should go for 6 just in case. He'll get her grandparents to come to the wedding. He's giving her half the company, what's she giving him? Has to be painful. Childbirth x6! Ethan wants her to love his mother like her own and she can live with them.
Their firstborn is a son, Wyatt. "Ethan O’Connor also says he can’t wait for a daughter to join their happily growing family. Mackenzie O’Connor could not be reached for a comment but this reporter did notice that Ethan O’Connor lost his breath rather abruptly after bringing up the subject of a second child."
March 5, 2017
Characters
The characters in this book just sizzle! Mackenzie is a complex but fascinating character. I love how independent she is! Ethan is such a charmer. 90% of the time he is as smooth as it gets. Their witty banter is amusing. This book was well named. Not to mention I loved Ethan's grandmother and mother. Also Mackenzie's friend Cassie is fantastic!
Plot
It is a romance. As the collection title says, this is a temporary engagement that sticks. Nothing earth shattering but there is an added complexity of Mackenzie's past that I appreciate. It made both the plot more interesting and added an unique facade to Mackenzie.
Overall
I've read lots of Megan Bryce's books, and really enjoy her books. You can tell this is one of her earlier novels, and that she is still coming into her own. The characters are fun and their interactions enjoyable. The plot does conform to a romance novel but has added complexity that is refreshing.
Rating
4 Stars
Great romantic read. It was an amusing read, great for an airplane ride or on a cold weekend. Enjoyable romance that is worth the read!
I read this on Wattpad.
The characters in this book just sizzle! Mackenzie is a complex but fascinating character. I love how independent she is! Ethan is such a charmer. 90% of the time he is as smooth as it gets. Their witty banter is amusing. This book was well named. Not to mention I loved Ethan's grandmother and mother. Also Mackenzie's friend Cassie is fantastic!
Plot
It is a romance. As the collection title says, this is a temporary engagement that sticks. Nothing earth shattering but there is an added complexity of Mackenzie's past that I appreciate. It made both the plot more interesting and added an unique facade to Mackenzie.
Overall
I've read lots of Megan Bryce's books, and really enjoy her books. You can tell this is one of her earlier novels, and that she is still coming into her own. The characters are fun and their interactions enjoyable. The plot does conform to a romance novel but has added complexity that is refreshing.
Rating
4 Stars
Great romantic read. It was an amusing read, great for an airplane ride or on a cold weekend. Enjoyable romance that is worth the read!
I read this on Wattpad.
March 13, 2015
Megan Bryce's characters are smart, witty, fun and playful just like this book. I'm not sure if I loved Ethan or Mackenzie more in this case. They both put up a tough fight.
"He slid his other fingers lightly up and down.
"She murmured, "I'm pretty sure this counts as sexual harrasment."
"Absolutely. Be sure and tell the judge that you like to be on top.""
Ethan was sexy and hot even though he wasn't the 110% alpha male I usually read and love. He was just as good as them though, if not better. Mackenzie was one bad-ass chick who totally supports the idea that girl's aren't around to just stand around and look good but she proves that we have brains that can often surpass men. It wasn't just about their own little romance - which was way different to the usual, typical romance read - but Mackenzie has a story and a past and I love the way the author brings that to light. I love Ethan's Grandma as much as I loved Ethan and his mom was hilarious. All in all if you love a light-hearted, funny rom-com then this is the book for you! I'll definitely be reading more of this author soon :) Megan Bryce...
"He slid his other fingers lightly up and down.
"She murmured, "I'm pretty sure this counts as sexual harrasment."
"Absolutely. Be sure and tell the judge that you like to be on top.""
Ethan was sexy and hot even though he wasn't the 110% alpha male I usually read and love. He was just as good as them though, if not better. Mackenzie was one bad-ass chick who totally supports the idea that girl's aren't around to just stand around and look good but she proves that we have brains that can often surpass men. It wasn't just about their own little romance - which was way different to the usual, typical romance read - but Mackenzie has a story and a past and I love the way the author brings that to light. I love Ethan's Grandma as much as I loved Ethan and his mom was hilarious. All in all if you love a light-hearted, funny rom-com then this is the book for you! I'll definitely be reading more of this author soon :) Megan Bryce...
January 5, 2017
Just now and again a book gets everything right. This one has cracking dialogue - funny, sassy, unpredictable, deeply satisfying. It's got likeable individuals as H & h, and a plot situation that, OK, is far-fetched (but you don't read this kind of fiction for nitty realism, anyway, do you?) but achieves the required result - i.e. H & h "have" to spend time together. Good, relevant back story, and a Best Friend who will, I hope, get her own HEA in another book. Great stuff. Off to find more.
P.S. The Best Friend did get her own story Some Like It Hopeless
P.S. The Best Friend did get her own story Some Like It Hopeless
August 16, 2013
The sample had great banter so I got the book with high expectations. It did not live up. Eventually the banter became redundant, mean and overdone. I got sick of the hiding chocolate every where and the your mother hates me too (seriously??? who wants candy they find after it has been hidden in a wall or bathroom for who knows how long?). Good advice to not beat a dead horse.
If you like the standard womanizer with a heart of gold who meets his (snarky) match and is smitten forever this may work for you.
If you like the standard womanizer with a heart of gold who meets his (snarky) match and is smitten forever this may work for you.
June 2, 2014
Rich charmer Ethan is having a hard time with the press lately thanks to a few ex-girlfriends. Enter employee MacKenzie who lives to drive him crazy. Ethan concocts a hair-brained scheme to give himself a little positive PR with the press and MacKenzie is the only hope, because she's the only person who seems immune to his charms. Or is she? This book had plenty of humor. I did have troubles following some of their back and forth banter. I felt like they had this private conversation going that I wasn't privy too. All in all, a good read.
July 3, 2014
I liked the story. It was cute made me laugh in spots. I thought the grandmother was a great character. The Heroine was just a little bit too much of a hard ass. I would have like a little more self reflection on her part. I never saw the hero as sooo charming. In fact after awhile all the innuendos were too much. They made him icky not charming. I did like the ending.
June 2, 2015
Ok, so this is not a literary masterpiece. Nor is it particularly original with the whole pretending to be someone's girlfriend/fiance plot. However, none of that matters! It doesn't matter because the book is well-written, entertaining, and a pleasure to read. It was a light romance and a very enjoyable read. It's well worth checking out.
September 11, 2015
Loved the main female character until she got engaged to Ethan. She was strong, smart, funny and passionate about her career. Then, they get together and she starts to lose her identity - to fade into his life. Ethan is ok with this change. Some like It Charming is an example of an unhealthy relationship.
April 30, 2017
I liked the first half of the book better than the second, though I can't really put my finger on why that is. The banter between the two main characters was entertaining (more so in the beginning), the whole "hiding chocolate" shtick got a bit old.
Fun and fluffy read, I could have done without the Dad-drama.
Fun and fluffy read, I could have done without the Dad-drama.
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June 29, 2024Mackenzie is clearly a lesbian. Her boss harrases her, sexually and otherwise, then pays her to pretend to be his fiancee. Poor gay Mackenzie just wants to be left alone to hit up the batting cages. Ironically, I read this during Pride month.
July 16, 2015
i really liked the female protagonist on this one... girl power ftw!!!
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