What do you think?
Rate this book
The Graysons #1
The Last Man on Earth
From New York Times bestselling author Tracy Anne Warren comes a sexy and romantic new contemporary series about corporate combat in the boardroom and under-the-covers passion in the bedroom...…
Idealistic good girl Madelyn Grayson believes in doing what’s right. Even as a high-powered executive in the mad world of advertising, she doesn’t cut corners, making her ad campaigns sizzle without having to burn anyone along the way.
Rival exec Zack Douglas never wastes an opportunity to land the next big deal—especially when it benefits him. A bad boy with a reputation to match, he has no qualms about doing whatever it takes to get ahead, no matter who gets in the way.
When a hot promotion pops up at their company, both Zack and Madelyn wind up on the short list for the position. But as the two square off, they discover that being heated rivals in the office makes for scorching bed play behind closed doors. Will Madelyn’s steamy, secret affair with Mr. Vice make her compromise her ideals—or worse, lose her heart?
Idealistic good girl Madelyn Grayson believes in doing what’s right. Even as a high-powered executive in the mad world of advertising, she doesn’t cut corners, making her ad campaigns sizzle without having to burn anyone along the way.
Rival exec Zack Douglas never wastes an opportunity to land the next big deal—especially when it benefits him. A bad boy with a reputation to match, he has no qualms about doing whatever it takes to get ahead, no matter who gets in the way.
When a hot promotion pops up at their company, both Zack and Madelyn wind up on the short list for the position. But as the two square off, they discover that being heated rivals in the office makes for scorching bed play behind closed doors. Will Madelyn’s steamy, secret affair with Mr. Vice make her compromise her ideals—or worse, lose her heart?
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 7, 2014
38 people are currently reading
955 people want to read
About the author
Tracy Anne Warren
41 books791 followersTracy Anne Warren is the New York Times bestselling author of ten Regency historical romance novels, including At The Duke’s Pleasure and The Husband Trap. Her books have appeared on the USA Today Bestsellers’ list and the Borders’ Group List of Bestselling Single Title Romance Paperbacks. She has won numerous writing awards, including Romance Writers’ of America’s prestigious RITA® Award, the National Readers’ Choice Award, the HOLT Medallion, the Golden Quill, and others.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
January 28, 2014
Got fooled by the cover and plot description into thinking this might be a feminist battle of the sexes in the office-type read, a la Julie James. Nope. Instead, it's the "you're a player and I shouldn't sleep with you, no, we shouldn't sleep together, oh, I'm so turned on I guess we're sleeping together" wiffly-waffly heroine-type romance. The two protagonists are competitors at an advertising firm, and decide to keep their affair a secret. But then the heroine wants a commitment (i.e., a promise he'll consider marriage one day) and the hero refuses. Longing to be settled, she then agrees to marry a former boyfriend, one who's been devoted to her for ages. Only on the day of the wedding does heroine see the error of her ways, realizing that even if hero doesn't want marriage, she still wants him. Of course, he's arriving at the church at the same moment, finally read to commit. Cruel behavior to former boyfriend—but he's the star of the sequel, so I guess we're supposed to be happy that she cut him loose rather than feel sorry for him...
January 12, 2014
This would definitely be the last man on earth for me. Instead of Madelyn, Zack should've gotten therapy. Poor James, the handsome, loving best friend, fiancé dumped twice by Madelyn, the love of his life.
Not a badly written story, just one I didn't care for.
Not a badly written story, just one I didn't care for.
January 12, 2014
Kitty‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
Review copy provided for an honest review
5 STARS
I have so enjoyed all of Tracy Ann Warren’s historical romances and was thrilled to see that she was heading into the Contemporary genre. And, the only thing that I can say is WHOO-HOO! I could not put down “The Last Man On Earth” and I cannot wait for the next book in the series to see where she brings the rest of the cast and crew on this journey.
Madelyn and Zack were explosive .. off the wall sex, secret rendezvous, and a bitter rivalry in the boardroom make for a fantastic storyline that can only lead to one place – heartbreak, bitterness and an eventual HEA. But what Madelyn and Zack have to go through to get there is what makes this story so special.
Zack is a “take no prisoners” ad executive that will leave no stone unturned, has no qualms about doing what he has to do to land the next campaign and will step on whoever’s toes he has to to get the job done. Except for Madelyn. No matter what she thinks of him or how she feels about him, he hasn’t done one thing to get in her way. Now, he has to make her believe that not everything she has heard about him is true. She may think that he’s a “bottom feeder” but he has his reasons for who he is and why he can’t commit to a long-term relationship.
Madelyn is one of the sweetest characters I have read in a long time. She has no ulterior motives when it comes to business – in the workplace and with her heart. She’s been dating James since she is 14 and everyone expects her to marry him. But, how do you marry your best friend when there’s no passion involved? Enter Zack and his “no holds barred” brand of sex. She finally agrees to see Zack, but on her terms. Nothing in the office (they still hate each other), nothing outside of week-end getaway’s, no visiting each others apartments … a secret affair of sex only. Until her heart did become involved and she wanted so much more from him.
Unfortunately, after a bad childhood and a bad first marriage, Zack cannot give Madelyn what she so desperately wants. He can’t tell her that he loves her. He can’t give her the 2.5 kids and white picket fence. His heart cannot stand another disappointment. With that, she returns to James and agrees to marry him. And, my heart broke!
Tracy Anne Warren whisked me away with the story of Zack and Madelyn. I had so many emotions running through me from start to finish. Zack is so straight-forward and upfront with what he expects from Madelyn and I commended him on that. He didn’t paint her a picture of hearts and flowers – told her right up front that it was sex and sex only. Madelyn thought that keeping things light and enjoying herself after her break-up with James, was just what she needed to get her life moving forward again. But, you watched them fall in love; you felt the angst when Zack couldn’t give her what she wanted; you cried right with Madelyn on her wedding day when she realized she just couldn’t go through with it – that her heart belonged to Zack and it wasn’t fair to James. I think I actually ran up the steps with Zack as he was trying to stop the wedding.
So, what more could I say about “The Last Man on Earth” except that it was meticulously written .. classic Tracy Ann Warren – it was fun and filled with characters that you fell in love with. Peg and Todd and Madelyn’s other friends just added light-hearted banter to a book that will sweep you off of your feet. And, “The Man Plan” looks to be as intriguing and beguiling as this one. Congratulations Ms. Warren on a fantastic journey into the Contemporary genre … looking forward to the rest of this series.
Review copy provided for an honest review
5 STARS
I have so enjoyed all of Tracy Ann Warren’s historical romances and was thrilled to see that she was heading into the Contemporary genre. And, the only thing that I can say is WHOO-HOO! I could not put down “The Last Man On Earth” and I cannot wait for the next book in the series to see where she brings the rest of the cast and crew on this journey.
Madelyn and Zack were explosive .. off the wall sex, secret rendezvous, and a bitter rivalry in the boardroom make for a fantastic storyline that can only lead to one place – heartbreak, bitterness and an eventual HEA. But what Madelyn and Zack have to go through to get there is what makes this story so special.
Zack is a “take no prisoners” ad executive that will leave no stone unturned, has no qualms about doing what he has to do to land the next campaign and will step on whoever’s toes he has to to get the job done. Except for Madelyn. No matter what she thinks of him or how she feels about him, he hasn’t done one thing to get in her way. Now, he has to make her believe that not everything she has heard about him is true. She may think that he’s a “bottom feeder” but he has his reasons for who he is and why he can’t commit to a long-term relationship.
Madelyn is one of the sweetest characters I have read in a long time. She has no ulterior motives when it comes to business – in the workplace and with her heart. She’s been dating James since she is 14 and everyone expects her to marry him. But, how do you marry your best friend when there’s no passion involved? Enter Zack and his “no holds barred” brand of sex. She finally agrees to see Zack, but on her terms. Nothing in the office (they still hate each other), nothing outside of week-end getaway’s, no visiting each others apartments … a secret affair of sex only. Until her heart did become involved and she wanted so much more from him.
Unfortunately, after a bad childhood and a bad first marriage, Zack cannot give Madelyn what she so desperately wants. He can’t tell her that he loves her. He can’t give her the 2.5 kids and white picket fence. His heart cannot stand another disappointment. With that, she returns to James and agrees to marry him. And, my heart broke!
Tracy Anne Warren whisked me away with the story of Zack and Madelyn. I had so many emotions running through me from start to finish. Zack is so straight-forward and upfront with what he expects from Madelyn and I commended him on that. He didn’t paint her a picture of hearts and flowers – told her right up front that it was sex and sex only. Madelyn thought that keeping things light and enjoying herself after her break-up with James, was just what she needed to get her life moving forward again. But, you watched them fall in love; you felt the angst when Zack couldn’t give her what she wanted; you cried right with Madelyn on her wedding day when she realized she just couldn’t go through with it – that her heart belonged to Zack and it wasn’t fair to James. I think I actually ran up the steps with Zack as he was trying to stop the wedding.
So, what more could I say about “The Last Man on Earth” except that it was meticulously written .. classic Tracy Ann Warren – it was fun and filled with characters that you fell in love with. Peg and Todd and Madelyn’s other friends just added light-hearted banter to a book that will sweep you off of your feet. And, “The Man Plan” looks to be as intriguing and beguiling as this one. Congratulations Ms. Warren on a fantastic journey into the Contemporary genre … looking forward to the rest of this series.
May 1, 2015
Let me preface this by saying I love Tracy Anne Warren. I really do. But this book just pushed on all my LEAST FAVORITE things in Contemporary Romance. You could make a chart of all the things I hate when reading contemporary romance, and there would be check marks next to the entire list, because all of them are here. ... So... yeah. I did not like this book. SPOILERS BELOW:
So... yeah. This book made me really angry. So, probably won't read more in this series.
So... yeah. This book made me really angry. So, probably won't read more in this series.
January 14, 2014
Review posted: Happily Ever After - Reads
Blog rating: C
Madelyn and Zach are work rivals, highly competitive and for Madelyn, she can’t stand the guy. Zach’s feelings are much different and while he does seem to enjoy their sparring at work, he’s been waiting for his chance to make a move. When he does, the sparks fly early and often and they decide to keep their relationship secret which results in them spending every weekend together but keeping up their work-hate relationship in front of their co-workers. I did like seeing them early on at the office, we get a good feel for their jobs, how their careers intersect and the paths each of them are on. It’s clear that they’re both good at what they do, and whenever a promotion comes up they’ll be fighting each other for it.
I did enjoy Zach and Madelyn together, they’re fun but I did have issues with Madelyn. She had been proposed to by her long time boyfriend James just before getting together with Zach, and while she does love James, she’s not in love with him and turned him down. Unfortunately, she strings James along throughout the whole book and I didn’t really like how she used him to fill a void that Zach couldn’t and wouldn’t commit to. Zach has some issues with love stemming from his past and it’s impacting all his current relationships. A part of me raised an eyebrow at James as well. He knew that Madelyn was seeing Zach and yet certain events lead Madelyn back to him and he was fine with being her second choice. I don’t know, I wanted to see James man up and not be the guy that gets settled for but I was more annoyed with Madelyn for being in love with Zach but keeping James on the back burner for the entire book.
When we finally reach the end, it felt abrupt. Another chapter or maybe an epilogue would have helped finish off the story a little better as it almost feels like the story ends mid-scene. But I’m a huge lover of epilogues so this might not bother someone else.
Overall, the romance was nice and had some fun, light moments but nothing really stood out with the story that made me stand up and take notice. I liked Zach and Madelyn, but I can’t say that I ended up loving them.
Blog rating: C
Madelyn and Zach are work rivals, highly competitive and for Madelyn, she can’t stand the guy. Zach’s feelings are much different and while he does seem to enjoy their sparring at work, he’s been waiting for his chance to make a move. When he does, the sparks fly early and often and they decide to keep their relationship secret which results in them spending every weekend together but keeping up their work-hate relationship in front of their co-workers. I did like seeing them early on at the office, we get a good feel for their jobs, how their careers intersect and the paths each of them are on. It’s clear that they’re both good at what they do, and whenever a promotion comes up they’ll be fighting each other for it.
I did enjoy Zach and Madelyn together, they’re fun but I did have issues with Madelyn. She had been proposed to by her long time boyfriend James just before getting together with Zach, and while she does love James, she’s not in love with him and turned him down. Unfortunately, she strings James along throughout the whole book and I didn’t really like how she used him to fill a void that Zach couldn’t and wouldn’t commit to. Zach has some issues with love stemming from his past and it’s impacting all his current relationships. A part of me raised an eyebrow at James as well. He knew that Madelyn was seeing Zach and yet certain events lead Madelyn back to him and he was fine with being her second choice. I don’t know, I wanted to see James man up and not be the guy that gets settled for but I was more annoyed with Madelyn for being in love with Zach but keeping James on the back burner for the entire book.
When we finally reach the end, it felt abrupt. Another chapter or maybe an epilogue would have helped finish off the story a little better as it almost feels like the story ends mid-scene. But I’m a huge lover of epilogues so this might not bother someone else.
Overall, the romance was nice and had some fun, light moments but nothing really stood out with the story that made me stand up and take notice. I liked Zach and Madelyn, but I can’t say that I ended up loving them.
July 6, 2024
2024 Reads #385/250
Cheating
Cheating
July 12, 2020
It was a decent enough book. I honestly didn't like Madelyn and the whole cheating on but still marrying her fiancé situation. As for Zack, I liked him. His personality and growth were interesting.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 20, 2014
First reviewed at Red Hot Books http://redhotbooks.com/2014/01/the-la...
I’ve often heard authors say that they feel they have done their job when a book elicits high emotions from the reader. Unfortunately, my feelings were not of the good variety; I wanted to throw my kindle at the wall by the time this book was over.
Madelyn Grayson has been busting her hump trying to get ahead in her cut throat advertising firm. Just as she thought she was getting ahead, Zack Douglas, her colleague and main rival, would somehow snake the deal out from under her. Zack never purposely set out to undermine Madelyn. His charm and easy going swagger appealed to their more traditional clients.
A chance meeting at a New Year’s Eve party sends their contentious relationship boiling over into the bedroom. They agree not to squander a powerful physical relationship and embark on a secret affair that relegated only to weekend hotel rooms. Predictably, as the affair wears on, Madelyn falls in love with Zack. Zack cares for her but can’t commit to Forever because he had a bad experience. Then, they go through some minor conflict, which is quickly resolved, on their way to their HEA. Sound predictable? That’s because it totally is.
The premise of a battle of the sexes in the boardroom had potential but the execution was reduced to a script from some clichéd rom-com from the 80’s. Both the main characters and the plot are so gender stereotypical that it frustrated me to no end. Zack is supposed to be this big stud at work and a player after hours. Madelyn is supposed this “high-powered” exec but just bitches and moans when things don’t fall her way. Her solution to a client demanding a male to handle business is quitting. When was this book written again?
The romantic relationship between Zack and Madelyn is just as tiresome. Even though they are single people, they meet in New Jersey so as not to run into anyone they know in New York (?!?). I can understand wanting to keep a relationship with someone you work with on the QT, but the parameters they set up are head-shaking (He can’t come to her apartment because someone might see him walk into her building). These folks are ad people, not government officials or even married people. Also, after not knowing anything about each other aside from work habits and sex, Madelyn decides she’s in love. Come on…really? When her feelings are not immediately reciprocated, she gets broody and teary in front of Zack in order to play him.
When the main conflict entered the picture, I wanted to physically throw my kindle.
This book disappointed me greatly for offering up a bland romance that should’ve been left in the 80’s
Rating: D
*ARC provided by Berkley, NAL
I’ve often heard authors say that they feel they have done their job when a book elicits high emotions from the reader. Unfortunately, my feelings were not of the good variety; I wanted to throw my kindle at the wall by the time this book was over.
Madelyn Grayson has been busting her hump trying to get ahead in her cut throat advertising firm. Just as she thought she was getting ahead, Zack Douglas, her colleague and main rival, would somehow snake the deal out from under her. Zack never purposely set out to undermine Madelyn. His charm and easy going swagger appealed to their more traditional clients.
A chance meeting at a New Year’s Eve party sends their contentious relationship boiling over into the bedroom. They agree not to squander a powerful physical relationship and embark on a secret affair that relegated only to weekend hotel rooms. Predictably, as the affair wears on, Madelyn falls in love with Zack. Zack cares for her but can’t commit to Forever because he had a bad experience. Then, they go through some minor conflict, which is quickly resolved, on their way to their HEA. Sound predictable? That’s because it totally is.
The premise of a battle of the sexes in the boardroom had potential but the execution was reduced to a script from some clichéd rom-com from the 80’s. Both the main characters and the plot are so gender stereotypical that it frustrated me to no end. Zack is supposed to be this big stud at work and a player after hours. Madelyn is supposed this “high-powered” exec but just bitches and moans when things don’t fall her way. Her solution to a client demanding a male to handle business is quitting. When was this book written again?
The romantic relationship between Zack and Madelyn is just as tiresome. Even though they are single people, they meet in New Jersey so as not to run into anyone they know in New York (?!?). I can understand wanting to keep a relationship with someone you work with on the QT, but the parameters they set up are head-shaking (He can’t come to her apartment because someone might see him walk into her building). These folks are ad people, not government officials or even married people. Also, after not knowing anything about each other aside from work habits and sex, Madelyn decides she’s in love. Come on…really? When her feelings are not immediately reciprocated, she gets broody and teary in front of Zack in order to play him.
When the main conflict entered the picture, I wanted to physically throw my kindle.
This book disappointed me greatly for offering up a bland romance that should’ve been left in the 80’s
Rating: D
*ARC provided by Berkley, NAL
December 29, 2015
Madelyn Grayson has always done what is right, and even though she has always desired a career, she also dreams of marriage and a family with the white picket fence. Her rival in the business world of advertising, Zack Douglas, has reputations she wants to steer clear from. She believes him to be power hungry, deceitful and a womanizer. She steers clear of bad boys like Zack. Madelyn has just broken off her longtime relationship with her closest friend, who wanted marriage, but she wants more than platonic love, she wants passion and desire and a feeling of rightness. But on one night at a wedding reception, Madelyn and Zack share a dance, and spend a passionate night together, and Madelyn finds that she can’t resist Zack and his sexual vibe. As they being a secret affair, both Madelyn and Zack will learn some hard truths about each other, and what it truly means to love…
I will admit I had some reluctance to read this one. I hadn’t much ratings or reviews for this book. Now I will say that her historical’s are amazing, and I tend to get nervous when authors change genres, because you never know how it will work out. I was delightfully surprised with this one. Now it is not my favorite of this author, since she is fantastic in writing historical romances, and I do hope she goes back to writing them, but for a contemporary this was an enjoyable story that had me pulled in. I was able to really get into it, and even though there were a couple of aspects of the story I didn’t really like that much, I felt like the set-up of the story was strong, and the plot well balanced.
One of my least favorite aspects of the story was the heroine…now she wasn’t terrible, the first half of the story I really loved her. She seemed to be feisty and passionate, but had a good heart. I felt I could really relate to her. What I didn’t like so much was the fact that she seemed to jump to conclusions, and wanted to rush the relationship way too fast. This part of the story didn’t seem that realistic to me. There is also a small aspect of a love triangle, which I wasn’t expecting to see, especially from this author. But as an overall, as a romance novel, this was quite a lovely one. I really enjoyed seeing these two find their HEA, although I will say that it was pretty rough there for a while, but once they got past certain issues, you really feel the story connect to the reader. It did have many qualities that I fully enjoyed, and I loved seeing Warren expand a bit. I am looking forward to the next book.
A contemporary romance that is packed with sensuality, angst to love theme, and a romance that will put your emotions through the ringer…a simply delightful love story!!
I will admit I had some reluctance to read this one. I hadn’t much ratings or reviews for this book. Now I will say that her historical’s are amazing, and I tend to get nervous when authors change genres, because you never know how it will work out. I was delightfully surprised with this one. Now it is not my favorite of this author, since she is fantastic in writing historical romances, and I do hope she goes back to writing them, but for a contemporary this was an enjoyable story that had me pulled in. I was able to really get into it, and even though there were a couple of aspects of the story I didn’t really like that much, I felt like the set-up of the story was strong, and the plot well balanced.
One of my least favorite aspects of the story was the heroine…now she wasn’t terrible, the first half of the story I really loved her. She seemed to be feisty and passionate, but had a good heart. I felt I could really relate to her. What I didn’t like so much was the fact that she seemed to jump to conclusions, and wanted to rush the relationship way too fast. This part of the story didn’t seem that realistic to me. There is also a small aspect of a love triangle, which I wasn’t expecting to see, especially from this author. But as an overall, as a romance novel, this was quite a lovely one. I really enjoyed seeing these two find their HEA, although I will say that it was pretty rough there for a while, but once they got past certain issues, you really feel the story connect to the reader. It did have many qualities that I fully enjoyed, and I loved seeing Warren expand a bit. I am looking forward to the next book.
A contemporary romance that is packed with sensuality, angst to love theme, and a romance that will put your emotions through the ringer…a simply delightful love story!!
July 13, 2016
2.5
I really wanted to like this. Promise, I really did…
Madelyn Grayson and Zack Douglas work for the same advertising firm and are both striving to be at the top of their field, so naturally they’re rivals. Madelyn’s coming out of a long-term relationship after turning down a marriage proposal and Zack is the office playboy. Going with the theme of opposites attract, they fall in bed together and begin a steamy secret affair.
Girl who wants a relationship and a guy who can’t give her one. The entire plot was full of clichés and extremely predictable. What starts as just sex becomes more. Madelyn came out of a relationship with a guy who was also her friend – you knew he was coming back. Zack is afraid of commitment – his past is littered with tragic relationships that ended badly. She wants him to change, he won’t. They break up and both end up depressed and realizing they love each other. Sigh…
Even worse, the characters themselves weren’t all that interesting. Zack at least had some personality. He was charming and funny (when he wasn’t being a spoiled child) and his character growth grows at a believable pace. Madelyn, however, spent the whole book whining about how she’s going to be single for the rest of her life and never have children (she’s like 28 or 29, I honestly can’t remember). She’s also a liar and a horrible friend. She lies to everyone in her life, letting them believe that she’s still in a relationship with her ex. Then she’s upset later when she has no one to talk to about Zack. She lies to her family and even to her ex. She also uses her ex to get back at Zack (didn’t see that one coming *rolls eyes*).
What killed it for me though was the ending. It was so over the top and cheesy that it almost hurt to read. Also, the events were completely out of character for Zack. There are ways to ‘go get the girl’ so to speak that actually keep with your character.
While the cover was definitely hot, this book was not. The series is titled “The Graysons” which means it’s more of Madelyn’s family. To be honest, they didn’t really impress me much here so I do not know if I will be continuing the series.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This review can also be seen here on my blog.
I really wanted to like this. Promise, I really did…
Madelyn Grayson and Zack Douglas work for the same advertising firm and are both striving to be at the top of their field, so naturally they’re rivals. Madelyn’s coming out of a long-term relationship after turning down a marriage proposal and Zack is the office playboy. Going with the theme of opposites attract, they fall in bed together and begin a steamy secret affair.
Girl who wants a relationship and a guy who can’t give her one. The entire plot was full of clichés and extremely predictable. What starts as just sex becomes more. Madelyn came out of a relationship with a guy who was also her friend – you knew he was coming back. Zack is afraid of commitment – his past is littered with tragic relationships that ended badly. She wants him to change, he won’t. They break up and both end up depressed and realizing they love each other. Sigh…
Even worse, the characters themselves weren’t all that interesting. Zack at least had some personality. He was charming and funny (when he wasn’t being a spoiled child) and his character growth grows at a believable pace. Madelyn, however, spent the whole book whining about how she’s going to be single for the rest of her life and never have children (she’s like 28 or 29, I honestly can’t remember). She’s also a liar and a horrible friend. She lies to everyone in her life, letting them believe that she’s still in a relationship with her ex. Then she’s upset later when she has no one to talk to about Zack. She lies to her family and even to her ex. She also uses her ex to get back at Zack (didn’t see that one coming *rolls eyes*).
What killed it for me though was the ending. It was so over the top and cheesy that it almost hurt to read. Also, the events were completely out of character for Zack. There are ways to ‘go get the girl’ so to speak that actually keep with your character.
While the cover was definitely hot, this book was not. The series is titled “The Graysons” which means it’s more of Madelyn’s family. To be honest, they didn’t really impress me much here so I do not know if I will be continuing the series.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This review can also be seen here on my blog.
August 26, 2016
3.5 stars
The Last Man on Earth by Tracy Anne Warren is book #1 in her new series, The Graysons. After feasting my eyes upon the spectacular cover and reading the blurb, I knew that this was a must read!
Madelyn & Zach are fierce rivals at their advertising firm. They are in constant competition with one another since both are vying for a big promotion within the company. Zach is the elusive and mysterious playboy of the office that all the ladies have a secret crush on. He hears the outlandish rumors and gossip that are constantly swirling around him, but he chooses to ignore them focusing on work instead. Madelyn is the consummate professional who works twice as hard as everyone else to prove that she is just as good as the men and more than a pretty face.
I loved Madelyn’s fiery personality and wit, her character was fun to read and get to know. I loved Zach’s depth of character, there was a lot beneath his surface and I enjoyed when his outer layers were peeled away. However, the story did fall a little flat for me. In my opinion, the connection between Madelyn & Zach wasn’t as intense as it could have been and felt very stiff. The interactions and dialogue were very proper and lacked intimacy between the characters. I missed the discovery, affection, closeness, familiarity and passion that usually accompanies two people falling in love. I simply wanted more.
Overall, The Last Man on Earth was a delightful contemporary romance that I enjoyed. Did it wow me? No, but that’s alright. It was still a sugary sweet read that left me wanting to know more because I am definitely intrigued by this family, and world, that Tracy Anne Warren has created.
ARC copy provided by the Publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review
The Last Man on Earth by Tracy Anne Warren is book #1 in her new series, The Graysons. After feasting my eyes upon the spectacular cover and reading the blurb, I knew that this was a must read!
Madelyn & Zach are fierce rivals at their advertising firm. They are in constant competition with one another since both are vying for a big promotion within the company. Zach is the elusive and mysterious playboy of the office that all the ladies have a secret crush on. He hears the outlandish rumors and gossip that are constantly swirling around him, but he chooses to ignore them focusing on work instead. Madelyn is the consummate professional who works twice as hard as everyone else to prove that she is just as good as the men and more than a pretty face.
I loved Madelyn’s fiery personality and wit, her character was fun to read and get to know. I loved Zach’s depth of character, there was a lot beneath his surface and I enjoyed when his outer layers were peeled away. However, the story did fall a little flat for me. In my opinion, the connection between Madelyn & Zach wasn’t as intense as it could have been and felt very stiff. The interactions and dialogue were very proper and lacked intimacy between the characters. I missed the discovery, affection, closeness, familiarity and passion that usually accompanies two people falling in love. I simply wanted more.
Overall, The Last Man on Earth was a delightful contemporary romance that I enjoyed. Did it wow me? No, but that’s alright. It was still a sugary sweet read that left me wanting to know more because I am definitely intrigued by this family, and world, that Tracy Anne Warren has created.
ARC copy provided by the Publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review
January 6, 2014
Take away love and our earth is a tomb. - Robert Browning
Madelyn Grayson is content with her life – she has a healthy relationship with her family and a successful career in corporate advertising. When her childhood friend (and current boyfriend) asks her to marry him, she declines. Madelyn doesn’t love him that way. She wants more. Fate gives Madelyn more from the THE LAST MAN ON EARTH she would consider – her business rival and office flirt, Zack Douglas. One night of unexpected passion turns into several months of secret getaways. Just as Madelyn gets comfortable, she realizes that she wants what has eluded her - love. Love that Zack does not think he is capable of giving. Readers are treated to an endearing resolution for a satisfying adventure in contemporary romance.
Warren, an established star of historical romance, delivers an entertaining modern day courtship. The twist, of course, is the heroine ultimately saves the hero from a life without love. Warren creates a sweet romance with just enough passion for my personal taste to make this the first contemporary keeper of 2014.
Recommended read for those who enjoys contemporary romance laced with positive role models.
Madelyn Grayson is content with her life – she has a healthy relationship with her family and a successful career in corporate advertising. When her childhood friend (and current boyfriend) asks her to marry him, she declines. Madelyn doesn’t love him that way. She wants more. Fate gives Madelyn more from the THE LAST MAN ON EARTH she would consider – her business rival and office flirt, Zack Douglas. One night of unexpected passion turns into several months of secret getaways. Just as Madelyn gets comfortable, she realizes that she wants what has eluded her - love. Love that Zack does not think he is capable of giving. Readers are treated to an endearing resolution for a satisfying adventure in contemporary romance.
Warren, an established star of historical romance, delivers an entertaining modern day courtship. The twist, of course, is the heroine ultimately saves the hero from a life without love. Warren creates a sweet romance with just enough passion for my personal taste to make this the first contemporary keeper of 2014.
Recommended read for those who enjoys contemporary romance laced with positive role models.
January 21, 2014
I really enjoyed this book and I think it deserves 4.5 stars. Madelyn was not my favorite heroine and she really kind of drove me a little crazy but I still really liked this book and was really happy with the ending. The thing I didn't like about Madelyn was I thought the writing was fantastic and I'm looking forward to reading more by this author.
January 8, 2014
I've read Ms. Warren's previous book, and they were all good. Actually, this book is pretty good. Except, the plot's unoriginal and predictable. It got a bit boring. And there was over dramatization with the characters. And hmmm... I just didn't feel the connection!! (I get frustrated when that happens, i feel like I lack sensitivity when this feeling happens)
I'd still recommend this to readers who love a good HEA book.
I'd still recommend this to readers who love a good HEA book.
January 16, 2014
Wonder if it's a coincidence that the image of the guy on the cover is the exact same one used for Beautiful Bastard. It's not in black and white and you can see the top half of his head, but it's the same image.
Hmm...
UPDATE
Eh. This one was just ok. Actually it was pretty boring. Felt like I'd read it before even though I hadn't. If you have nothing else to read go ahead and give it a go, but otherwise there is much better out there.
Hmm...
UPDATE
Eh. This one was just ok. Actually it was pretty boring. Felt like I'd read it before even though I hadn't. If you have nothing else to read go ahead and give it a go, but otherwise there is much better out there.
June 30, 2016
this book is typical romance complete with the usual bout of caasual sexism. but hey its okay if u ignore that... however if a guy ripped my c lothes aand under as often as zack rips madelyns he would be out on the street i dont have the time or money to constantrly buy new clithes!!
July 14, 2014
3 ½ stars – Contemporary Romance
January 11, 2014
This was more of a 3.5 for me. I liked it but didn't really feel the connection between the H/h. i was expecting more animosity between them based on the title and blurb.
July 31, 2023
i don't usually say i wasted time reading a book that i didn't liked, but this was such a huge disappointment and it all stemmed from the inconsistency in the book.
SPOILERS AHEAD EVERYONE
first thing first, i want to note that i was enjoying whatever i was reading up until the point when she agreed to james' proposal. there were slight red flags surrounding the stories of other characters, but with zack and madelyn, it was okay. oh my, the moment she accepted james' proposal, i just couldn't continue anymore. she broke up with james because she only had platonic love for her and he deserved a woman who would wholeheartedly love him. THEN SHE DID A REVERSE AND SAID YES AFTERWARDS? oh my goodness and he got dumped again. wtf? he's probably the sweetest person in this book and he gets this treatment? madelyn herself said she wanted love in a marriage and she was obviously still thinking about zack. WHY DO YOU THEN DECIDE TO GET MARRIED TO SOMEONE ELSE? i stopped after they had sex in a business trip after she accepted james' proposal. so yeah. done.
SPOILERS AHEAD EVERYONE
first thing first, i want to note that i was enjoying whatever i was reading up until the point when she agreed to james' proposal. there were slight red flags surrounding the stories of other characters, but with zack and madelyn, it was okay. oh my, the moment she accepted james' proposal, i just couldn't continue anymore. she broke up with james because she only had platonic love for her and he deserved a woman who would wholeheartedly love him. THEN SHE DID A REVERSE AND SAID YES AFTERWARDS? oh my goodness and he got dumped again. wtf? he's probably the sweetest person in this book and he gets this treatment? madelyn herself said she wanted love in a marriage and she was obviously still thinking about zack. WHY DO YOU THEN DECIDE TO GET MARRIED TO SOMEONE ELSE? i stopped after they had sex in a business trip after she accepted james' proposal. so yeah. done.
March 3, 2023
I feel bad giving it one star and I was entertained for a while. But the last third just made me uncomfortable and couldn't root for the heroine at all. I felt bad for both men but the heroine needed a good kick in the head.
July 17, 2017
Zero chemistry between the main characters and I couldn't get into the story to save my life.
July 26, 2017
Excellent!
April 23, 2018
Poor Madeline
I am used to historic romance by Tracy Anne Warren, but this contemporary romance was definitely well worth it. I am thoroughly satisfied . . . as always. Can't wait to start book 2.
I am used to historic romance by Tracy Anne Warren, but this contemporary romance was definitely well worth it. I am thoroughly satisfied . . . as always. Can't wait to start book 2.
July 2, 2018
Just no.
September 7, 2019
Another female choosing a pretty face over consistently displayed abhorrent behavior
October 30, 2019
Loved this book and can't wait for the next book.
March 6, 2021
Never like when it actually gets to the wedding day....come on lady, smarten up!
April 20, 2022
Enjoyed it overall, but the male lead’s behavior was pretty red-flaggy throughout.
abandoned
April 28, 2024Not my cuppa
September 1, 2025
3 stars, it was okay, not interested in more in the series
Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews